Harrisburg City Council Special Legislative Session and Policy Work Session - 8/11/26

The City of Harrisburg held a special legislative session and policy work session on August 11, 2026. The meeting included a presentation by the legislative research assistant intern on food insecurity in Harrisburg, highlighting significant community needs and proposing initiatives such as updating community resource webpages, enhancing volunteer coordination, and better utilization of grant funds like ESG and CDBG. The council discussed the 2026 annual action plan for community development block grants (CDBG), home investment partnerships, and emergency solutions grants (ESG), focusing on infrastructure projects and support for homeless populations. Questions addressed funding allocations, application processes, and oversight of funded organizations. The policy work session centered on the potential establishment of off-leash dog parks in Harrisburg, with presentations on possible locations, community benefits, operational considerations, and legal frameworks. Discussions covered maintenance responsibilities, liability concerns, funding options, and the need for legislative changes to allow unleashed dogs in city parks. The council expressed interest in starting with a pilot dog park, possibly in Reservoir Park, and emphasized community involvement and phased implementation.