We need more public servants like John Harris

We were saddened to hear last week of the passing of former Linn County Supervisor John Harris after a 13-year fight against cancer. To say he will be missed is an understatement.

Harris was the epitome of a dedicated public servant. Our editorial board met with Harris many times over the seven years he served on the Board of Supervisors. He was, without fail, a thoughtful, decent and soft-spoken presence. Even when we disagreed with Harris on an issue, he was willing to listen and respectfully convey his position. It was always a pleasure to hear his views on public policy.

In these times of deep political polarization, Harris offered a model for public service we need to see more often. He was never self-promoting or cynical. He listened to his constituents and sought the views of county employees. No issue was too unimportant for his attention. He didn’t need to be the loudest voice to be an effective supervisor. Harris provided a consistent, admirable example for his fellow board members to emulate.

“We have lost a great man who was cherished, loved and respected by many. John was a dedicated public servant, a man of great faith and a wonderful human being,” Supervisor Ben Rogers said in a statement.

“He’ll always be an example here of the right way to serve,” County Treasurer Brent Oleson said, according to The Gazette’s Marissa Payne. After redistricting and a party switch for Oleson, he had to run against Harris, which Oleson called a “horrible campaign” against a man he admired.

“He didn’t run for any personal (reason) to promote himself. When you hear the words ‘public servant’ … he embodies ‘servant,’ ” Oleson said.

“It brought him great joy to listen to connect with his constituents, as well as participate in endless small town community parades,” Harris’ obituary said.

We agree with all of these sentiments.

We can still look to John Harris as an example. We need more public servants willing to listen to all sides, gather information and make a thoughtful call that serves the common good. We need more dedicated, unselfish public servants like John Harris.

(319) 398-8262; editorial@thegazette.com