This is a notice for a man named Joel Harlan. He was from Newfield.
In journalism, you come across a lot of people, some of whom leave an impression on you for whatever reason. Joel was one of those.
In journalism, you come across a lot of people, some of whom leave an impression on you for whatever reason. Joel was one of those.
He wasn't a big mover and shaker in city hall, nor did he really do anything noteworthy. Joel was just an everyday dude who in my time, never missed a planning board meeting, common council meeting, you name it.
The thing about these meetings is that the only time anyone ever shows up, they're usually there to complain about something specific. A lot of the time, you would never see them again. Not Joel. He was there every time. No specific agenda at all, just opinions about his city.
He wasn't always the most articulate guy -- sometimes he'd ramble on -- but he was surprisingly prescient on the times he was on, and was never afraid to call out city staff, common council, the mayor... Everyone knew Joel, and appreciated him.
The reason Joel stuck with me all these years is because government only works when common people take the time to engage. Whether out of boredom or concern, Joel Harlan never took that right for granted. We need more of those people.
