A Better Way Forward: Thoughts on the Proposed Public Safety Building
A Better Way Forward: Thoughts on the Proposed Public Safety Building
In Harrisville, we all agree on one thing: public safety matters. Our police officers and city staff deserve safe, modern facilities that allow them to do their jobs effectively. The proposed new public safety building—planned for 750 West, next to the recently completed public works building—has been presented as a necessary step to bring our police department into code compliance and to provide updated space for both law enforcement and city administration.
But while the need for updated facilities may be valid, the process behind this proposal has left many residents feeling frustrated, unheard, and overlooked. I believe that concern is just as important as the bricks and mortar of any new building.
Supporting Public Safety—With Public Input
I want to be clear: I support our police department. I support giving them the tools and environment they need to keep Harrisville safe. But I also believe that when a project places our city in $13 million of debt, residents deserve more than just a summary of the final plan. They deserve a seat at the table from the beginning.
This is where the process has fallen short.
From what I’ve seen, no alternate proposals were seriously considered—or if they were, they were not shared with the public. Residents were not invited into a discussion early on about how to solve the problem, weigh the options, or explore creative and cost-effective solutions. The referendum on bond funds a year ago forced some effort to reduce costs, but even after that, we’ve seen the project move forward in what feels like a top-down decision rather than a community-guided process.
That’s not how local government should work.
Representation Means Listening—Before the Vote
Time and again, I’ve heard from neighbors who say the city council acts more like a representative of city government than a representative of the people. I believe it’s time we reverse that mindset.
When large financial decisions are made without thorough and transparent communication, it erodes public trust—even if the end goal is good. People aren’t upset because they don’t want safe police facilities. They’re upset because they don’t feel heard.
A Vision for Smarter, More Inclusive Decision-Making
If I’m elected to serve on the Harrisville City Council, I will advocate for a better process—not just for this project, but for every major decision moving forward.
Here’s what I believe that process should look like:
Start with the need: Be clear about what problem we’re trying to solve.
Involve the community early: Invite citizens and the city council to brainstorm real options—not just react to a nearly-final proposal.
Weigh alternatives publicly: Show why some solutions might not work, and explain that with transparency and respect.
Earn public support before committing the city—and its taxpayers—to major financial obligations.
A city that listens is a city that leads.
Let’s Get Back to Listening
Public safety isn’t the issue. Public trust is. And trust is built through openness, communication, and respect for every voice in the community.
We can do better—and I believe we must. I’m committed to bringing that kind of leadership to Harrisville City Council.
If you feel the same, I invite you to stay involved, stay vocal, and stay connected.
Let’s talk. Let’s listen. And let’s lead—together.
