Jon Harrison Runs for Re-Election to City Council

City Council member Jon Harrison is running for re-election to the dais this November, and he said he’s looking to continue the “solid path of progress” the city is on to “continue moving Redlands in a positive direction.” Harrison has served for 13 years on the city council and also as the city’s mayor. Prior to that, Harrison served seven years on the planning commission, experience Harrison felt qualified him to lead the city. “I understand what it takes to set and pursue a policy direction for the city that achieves fiscal responsibility, responsible growth and a quality of life treasured by city residents…I understand the great potential of this community and look forward to continuing the great progress we are making as a city,” Harrison said. If re-elected, Harrison said he wants to work with the council to grow Redlands economically, work to reduce crime, bring businesses downtown and attract new businesses and new jobs to the city. He also explained he wants to see to completion the updated Redlands General Plan and the Orange Blossom and Santa Ana River trails. “We will continue to adopt balanced budgets and live within our means,” Harrison said. “We have developed a three year strategic plan that lays out a wide range of projects and programs that the city will pursue.” His main goal, Harrison said, is fiscal responsibility, which has “laid a solid foundation for progress.” Harrison wants to help create a profitable downtown area and an “Emerald Necklace” of parks, trails and open space. Harrison has a bachelor’s degree in city and regional planning from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Working for 32 years a geographic information systems consultant to governments worldwide, he said he’s developed an understanding of government operations “that has proven invaluable in enabling me to work with council colleagues and staff to craft the strategies in place to continue moving Redlands forward,” Harrison said. Other council candidates include incumbent Paul Foster, who will also run for re-election; and candidates Paul Barich, Neil Derry, Jane Dreher, John Montgomery and Tabetha Wittenmyer.