Community Corner

Harrison Looks Toward 2012

We asked a few of Harrison's town leaders what their hopes for the town next year, what are some of yours?

The new year may provide a clean slate in some situations, but when running a town many of the issues carry over from year-to-year.

But one thing New Years Day does provide is the opportunity to reflect and look forward; to reassess goals and make them happen while entering a brand new calendar year.

That's where the New Years resolutions we all make come in to play.

Find out what's happening in Harrisonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

We thought it would be a good idea to discuss with some of Harrison's leaders what they are looking forward to entering the new year. Readers are also encouraged to share with us how they plan to improve Harrison next year.

Mayor/Supervisor-Elect Ron Belmont, for example, said he has a full plate of projects on his agenda after he is sworn-in Sunday. From the MTA project, to resolving the situation at the Lake Street Quarry to illegal apartments and town zoning laws, he said the list goes on and on.

Find out what's happening in Harrisonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"I'm anxiously awaiting getting started," Belmont said. "There's a lot to get done."

Councilman Joseph Cannella said the theme of new beginnings is particularly true in Harrison this year.

"I am looking forward to a constructive atmosphere and positive attitude starting with the town board and radiating through the town, which will make it easier to resolve the difficult issues we will invariably face as a community," Cannella said.

Marlane Amelio, who is entering her second year on the town board, said she hopes the holiday spirit lasts into the new year, especially during public board meetings that have been less than cordial at times in the past.

"I am hoping that the town board meetings will also experience 'peace' during what are supposed to be business meetings and that we are able to accomplish all that we set out to do for our wonderful town," Amelio said.

As for local businesses, Ada Angarano, president of the Harrison Chamber of Commerce, said she is looking forward to revamping some local programs in the coming year.

Angarano said she has been speaking with business groups in surrounding communities and has high hopes as we enter 2012.

"With many of our prior merchant members either retiring or relocating and new stores coming into town, I think that 2012 would be the ideal time to get the chamber back in business," she said. "It will not happen overnight, but at least we now have a vision for 2012 and beyond!"

What are your hopes for Harrison in the year to come? What will you do to help?

Let us know in the comments section below.


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