Assumes seat previously held by his son
The City of Demorest’s recently elected mayor and council members have been sworn into office. Mayor Rick Austin and councilman Sean Moore are both returning for second terms. Local attorney Bruce Harkness fills the seat left vacant by the departure of his son, Jerry Harkness.
Harkness and Moore ran unopposed in last November’s election. Austin survived a tough challenge by local realtor and political newcomer Jim Welborn.
Political return
Bruce Harkness previously served on the Demorest Council. In an interview with Now Habersham shortly after his election he said his love for the county and Demorest community run deep. “My family has been here (Habersham) since the 1700’s, before Habersham was even a county. I’ve had my law office here for the past 20 years, and I care about this community.”
On top of his agenda, updating Demorest Park and easing the tax burden on citizens.
“Some of the facilities in the park haven’t been updated since the 1970s” stated Harkness. “I want to make it (Demorest) a place that is family friendly.”
Reflecting on his election and political return Harkness said, “I answer to the citizens of this city. They’re the ones that have allowed me to be in this position, and they’re the ones I work for. At anytime if someone has an issue or concern, I invite them to reach out to me, call me, or even come by my office.”
