What Responsible Growth Looks Like in a Small City
What Responsible Growth Looks Like in a Small City
By Jason Hadley, Candidate for Harrisville City Council
Growth is coming to Harrisville—and it’s coming fast.
With the development of the old Ben Lomond golf course and other expansion zones, our population is projected to nearly double over the next 3 to 5 years. That’s a big shift for a city that many of us still think of as a quiet, close-knit town.
So the question isn’t whether we grow—it’s how we grow.
Growth Should Reflect Community Values—Not Just Top-Down Decisions
Responsible growth in a small city doesn’t come from behind closed doors. It comes from conversation, community input, and a shared vision of what we want Harrisville to look and feel like—not just today, but 10, 20, even 50 years from now.
Too often, residents find out about growth plans after they’ve already been decided. That’s not how it should work. A healthy city government should act more like a partner and less like a gatekeeper.
Protecting Property Rights While Preserving Community
There’s a delicate balance between preserving the charm of Harrisville and honoring the rights of private property owners—and I believe we can strike that balance with the right leadership.
The ability to use, sell, or develop one’s own land is a constitutional right—and I support that right fully. But I also believe that smart growth is collaborative, not combative.
We need:
Clear, respectful zoning conversations
Advance notice and community feedback before major land use changes
A city council that listens to citizens and landowners
When both sides feel heard, we can create win-win solutions that respect property rights and benefit the whole city.
Approachability Leads to Better Planning
Harrisville’s growth is not just a numbers issue—it’s a people issue. We need to cultivate a culture where:
Citizens feel comfortable bringing ideas and concerns to city leaders
The city genuinely considers those ideas, not just checks a box
We work together—not against each other—to shape the future
If elected, my door will always be open. You’ll find me at city events, answering phone calls, and asking questions—not just making decisions.
Let’s Grow the Right Way
Growth is not the enemy. In fact, if done right, it can bring:
Better parks, trails, and amenities
More local businesses
Expanded tax base (which can help stabilize property taxes)
But that only happens with intentional planning and inclusive decision-making.
Let’s protect the values that make Harrisville special—while creating room for new families to love it here too.
