Ward 4

About Kris Harsh

Councilman Kris Harsh proudly represents Ward 4, which includes the Old Brooklyn neighborhood and stretches from the City of Brooklyn on the west to the Village of Brooklyn Heights on the east, and south to the Parma border. A lifelong advocate for housing justice and community development, Councilman Harsh brings years of grassroots experience and public service to his role on Cleveland City Council.

A Background in Housing & Community Organizing

Before entering public office, Councilman Harsh served as Housing Director at Metro West Community Development Organization beginning in 2014, where he helped lead efforts to stabilize neighborhoods, improve housing conditions, and empower residents through education and advocacy.
He previously worked as an organizer for the Ohio Organizing Collaborative and served as Director of Community Organizing at Empowering and Strengthening Ohio’s People (ESOP). At ESOP, he focused on equipping residents—particularly seniors—with the financial tools and resources to achieve long-term housing stability and economic wellness.

Advocacy, Representation & Housing Reform

Councilman Harsh has been a strong voice for housing justice, representing residents before the Cleveland Housing Court, Board of Zoning Appeals, and Board of Building Standards. His collaborative work with the Cleveland Land Bank, Cleveland Housing Network, City Council colleagues, and organizations like MetroHealth and Environmental Health Watch has addressed complex housing challenges across the city.
His efforts have led to:
•    Spearheading a modular home initiative in Cleveland
•    The demolition of dozens of blighted and unsafe properties
•    Expanded side lot programs to help residents reclaim vacant land
•    A pilot lead abatement program focused on reducing lead exposure in both owner-occupied and rental housing
 

Councilman Harsh also serves as Cleveland City Council’s representative to the Cuyahoga County Office of Homeless Services Advisory Board, contributing to countywide strategies to reduce homelessness and improve housing access. 

Community Roots & Personal Life

Originally from Northeast Ohio, Councilman Harsh studied at the University of Akron and Kent State University. He is also a longtime supporter of the local arts scene, having previously hosted the indie music radio show “Pure Denizen” on WRUW.
Councilman Harsh lives on Merl Avenue with his wife, Elizabeth, their three children, a cat, and a dog. He is committed to building a safer, stronger, and more inclusive Ward 4—where every resident has the opportunity to thrive.