City Council Year-End Meeting Includes Target Development Announcement

Harrison City Council held its final meeting of the year on Tuesday (Dec. 16), blending routine City business with meaningful moments of appreciation, reflection, and a look ahead to the new year.

Development Agreement and Retail Update

Council approved the final property agreement for the retail development at 10400 Harrison Avenue, marking a major milestone for the project and the official announcement of Target as the first confirmed retail tenant.

John Silverman, representing Midland Atlantic Properties, thanked City leadership and staff, describing the progress as

“moving mountains in four months, on a process that would normally take a year.”

He credited Mayor Grubbs, City leadership, and the work of Economic Development Coordinator Joett Griewe and City Administrator Kim Downey for helping move the project forward.

Council Business and City Updates

Council also approved its annual update to the City’s codified ordinances, a routine year-end process that incorporates statewide changes adopted throughout the year.

The American Legion continued it's support of investing in Harrison's public safety, with a $5,294 donation to the Harrison Fire Department to cover the cost of a new snow blade that fits on a gator.

During his report, Mayor Grubbs reflected on recent community events, including the Wreaths Across America ceremony at Glen Haven Cemetery, where volunteers honored approximately 800 veterans with wreaths donated by the American Legion and VFW. He also announced that the Mayor’s Community Fund toy distribution will take place this Saturday, Dec. 20, at the Harrison High School.

Councilmember Jerry Wilson Recognized

The evening included a particularly meaningful moment as Councilmember Jerry Wilson attended his final meeting. Councilmembers, City leadership, and staff expressed appreciation for his years of service, while Wilson reflected on a challenging year and the support he received from his family, fellow councilmembers, and the community. His remarks were met with heartfelt thanks and recognition from those in attendance.

Wilson shared that the one project he hoped to complete before the end of his term was the dedication and renaming of Willow Park in honor of former councilmember Ray Acra. Following the memorial ceremony held on Dec. 6, 2025, the park is now officially named the Raymond J. Acra Memorial at Willow Park.

Wilson thanked Ray Acra’s wife, Debbie, who was in attendance, as well as the American Legion, community partners, and fellow councilmembers for their continued support throughout the year in helping make the project possible.

The evening included heartfelt sentiments and moments of laughter as councilmembers wished Wilson well. The mayor noted that Wilson consistently brought a clear approach to his work and was driven by a desire to leave the community better than when he first joined Council.

Year-End Appreciation

Additional updates included appreciation for City crews and Streets Department for their hard work during recent winter weather, along with highlights from successful holiday events such as the Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting.

Mayor Grubbs lighting the City of Harrison Christmas Tree

As the meeting concluded, the mayor offered end-of-year remarks thanking City directors and employees for their dedication, service, and care for the community. He noted that their commitment is what keeps the City running, supports residents, and continues to make Harrison a better place to live.

On behalf of the City of Harrison, City leadership and staff, we wish our residents a wonderful holiday season and a happy New Year.

To watch this City Council meeting and other media for the City of Harrison, please visit www.icrctv.com

Photography and article written by Amy Staiger.