I have previously been on the city council and am now on the planning commission. With openings on the council, I have decided my experience and background in city government is needed at this time. We need to, as leaders of our city, become more involved in encouraging business growth through such organizations as the chamber of commerce and other such groups. I don't believe our city has "stepped beyond its proper role" as community leaders in any operations of Harrisville. Our ordinances clearly show how the role of the city and officials do their jobs as per state statutes. We need to find ways to keep a tight budget for now and find ways of encouraging more business development in our commercial areas to raise our tax base. As far as the city charging residents to fix their sidewalks, most cities have a sidewalk program of some sort that addresses the problems of things that cause tripping hazards and such for the safety of ourselves and our neighbors who use them. Having been to practically every council meeting, planning commission and project management meeting for at least five years or more, I see the needs and what developments are coming to Harrisville so my background in land use will be an asset to our city. I am a business owner for 25 years so handling financial issues are not new either.
