08/04/2026
To the Citizens of Harrison,
“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted.” — Ecclesiastes 3:1–2 (ESV)
There are seasons in life when God calls us to step forward, and there are seasons when He calls us to step aside. After much prayer, wise counsel, and reflection, I believe this is one of those moments. Because of that, I will not be seeking reelection to the Harrison City Council.
When I said yes to run, it was never about holding a position or gaining a title. It was about answering what I believe to be God’s call to serve my community. I have sought to lead with integrity, humility, and conviction, remembering that every decision affected the lives of REAL people and that I am ultimately accountable to God for how I steward every opportunity He entrusts to me. Serving on the City Council has deepened my appreciation for the dedicated employees who keep our city running and for the citizens who care enough to speak up, ask questions, and stay engaged. It has also reinforced my belief that good government requires more than good intentions and a vote—it requires honesty, accountability, wisdom, and the courage to ask difficult questions.
I have never believed my responsibility was simply to show up to a meeting and cast a vote. My responsibility was to listen, to learn, to seek truth, and to represent the people of Harrison with faithfulness. I can honestly say I have tried to make every decision with prayer, careful thought, and a genuine desire to serve our community well. I’ve remained trustworthy and loyal while wanting to see growth.
Harrison is filled with good people who love this community and desire to see it flourish. This decision is not one I make because I have lost hope in our city but comes from a deep conviction that God is redirecting my time, gifts, and energy into a new season of service. Throughout Scripture, we see that obedience often means being willing to leave something good because God is calling us to something different. My prayer has always been that my life would be defined more by obedience to Christ than by any title or position I hold. I am deeply grateful to everyone who placed their trust in me. Thank you for your encouragement, your honest conversations, your prayers, and even your disagreements. Every conversation has helped shape me into a better listener, a better leader, and a stronger servant.
My commitment to Harrison does not end when my term does. I will continue to pray for our city, encourage those who serve, and look for opportunities to make a difference wherever God leads. Public office is only one avenue of service. The call to LOVE our neighbors and seek the good of our community NEVER expires. To those who continue serving in public office, my prayer is that you would seek WISDOM above popularity, TRUTH above convenience, and SERVICE above self-interest. Our community deserves leaders who govern with humility, integrity, courage, and a genuine desire to do what is right.
Thank you for allowing me the privilege of serving you. It has been one of my greatest honors. While this chapter is coming to a close, I am excited to see what God has planned next—for my family, for me, and for the City of Harrison.
May God richly bless each of you, and may He continue to bless the City of Harrison.
With gratitude,
Josh Earl
Ward 1 Position 1
Harrison City Council
