Planning for Harrisville’s Economic Future: Responsible Leadership for a Resilient City
Harrisville is a city with a strong sense of community and a solid financial foundation. Our roads are maintained, our parks are open, and essential services operate consistently — and much of that is thanks to a healthy flow of sales tax revenue from major businesses in our community, with one of those businesses being bigger than all of the others. Sales Tax revenue currently accounts for roughly two-thirds of our annual city budget, with property taxes contributing the remaining one-third. And that big partner? While we don't know an exact amount they contribute to our city, it is most certainly sizable.
As residents, we may not think about how fragile the balance between sales tax revenue and property tax revenue can be. But as someone who has looked closely at our city’s financial structure, I believe it’s time we ask an important — and responsible — question:
What would happen if a large portion of our sales tax revenue were to go away?
Let me be clear: There is no indication that our key economic partners are planning to leave. In fact, one of our highest priorities should be maintaining strong relationships and open communication with them. A thriving partnership benefits us all, and we should make every effort to ensure they know they’re valued and supported in Harrisville.
But while relationships are vital, they’re not guarantees. Business decisions — especially at the corporate level — are often made based on national or global factors outside our local control. That’s why good leadership includes asking hard “what if” questions — not out of fear, but out of responsibility.
Our city maintains reserves, as required by state law. These are critical for handling short-term disruptions. But they’re not designed to replace an ongoing, stable source of revenue. At the same time, Harrisville is carrying a sizable amount of bonded debt, which, while common and often used for essential infrastructure investments, still requires consistent, predictable revenue to manage sustainably.
If our sales tax base were to take a major hit, it wouldn’t be the end of city services — but it could very well affect how reliably and efficiently those services are delivered. Snow removal might take longer. Road repairs could be delayed. Community programs might see reductions. These aren’t scare tactics — they’re practical outcomes when the city has to make do with less while still meeting its financial obligations.
The good news? We’re not in a crisis. And that gives us the advantage of time. But that time should be used wisely.
Work towards a more resilient future
We need to actively plan for a more resilient future by working to diversify our revenue sources, encouraging local business development, and being cautious about future borrowing. And yes, we should absolutely continue to strengthen our relationships with major economic contributors — while ensuring our city’s financial health doesn’t hinge too heavily on any single source.
Responsible planning isn’t about expecting the worst. It’s about making sure Harrisville is prepared for any possibility — and poised to grow, adapt, and thrive no matter what comes.
As residents, we all have a stake in that future. We deserve open conversations, clear priorities, and leadership that looks not just at today’s budget, but at the health of our city five, ten, and twenty years down the road.
Let’s protect what makes Harrisville special — and make sure it stays strong for generations to come.
If you believe in thoughtful planning, open communication, and responsible leadership, I invite you to vote for me on August 12th. Together, we can shape a future for Harrisville that’s strong, stable, and built to last.
