Overview

Joseph A. Harrison represents the East Ward on the Trenton City Council, having first won election in 2018. He entered municipal politics during a period of significant transition in New Jersey’s capital city, narrowly winning his initial campaign by five votes.

His tenure has included service on the Trenton Planning Board, where he participated in transit-oriented development planning efforts. Throughout his time in office, Harrison has focused on district-level constituent services and citywide budgetary matters.

Harrison secured re-election in 2022 with 59.6 percent of the vote, defeating two challengers including an appointed incumbent. In 2024, he ran unopposed and received 1,773 votes.

Political Career

East Ward Councilman, Trenton City Council (2018–present)

Trenton City Planning Board — Served as council representative during Transit Oriented Development Strategic Plan implementation

Key Policy Areas

Transit-oriented development and infrastructure planning

Municipal budget and fiscal oversight

Public safety and emergency services

Labor relations and employee compensation

Housing and community development

Intergovernmental coordination (state/county/city)

Notable Actions / Initiatives

COVID-19 Hazard Pay: Supported 2021 initiative providing up to $7,000 in hazard pay to city employees who worked in person during the coronavirus pandemic

Transit-Oriented Development: Participated in Planning Board implementation of the Trenton250 Transit Oriented Development Strategic Plan, focusing on redevelopment around Trenton Transit Center, Cass Street Station and Hamilton Avenue Station

Education

Not publicly available

Personal

Birth date: Not publicly available

Residence: East Ward, Trenton, New Jersey