James did not provide a biography
Why should I vote for you?
I will not vote to increase property taxes. I will keep the budget under control and oversee efficient operation
What is your biggest budget priority and why?
My biggest budget priority is essential city operations, because that is what is necessary to run the city.
How would you draw more economic development and investment to Manhattan?
Lower taxes and reduce regulations that constrict businesses ability to operate.
What does Manhattan do well? How should that be maintained/expanded?
Manhattan does a great job of making people feel comfortable. Maintaining a small town feel with big city technological capacity is essential to positive growth.
What future improvements/additions/changes should be prioritized?
We should prioritize reducing the budget and property taxes.
In what ways, if any, does Manhattan need to adapt for the mass influx of families for NBAF and Afghan resettlement?
Manhattan doesn't need to change to absorb any of the above. As a military town we have a diverse community able to easily absorb different populations.
What ways, if any, should the concepts of diversity, equity, and inclusion be included in professional development or other training for City employees?
The city manager is responsible for the training of city employees.
What is your top, specific issue in running for this office and why?
Lowering Property Taxes and reducing the budget. These are my top issues because Manhattan is becoming less and less affordable. We just recieved a 9% tax increase from the current commission a few weeks ago. Families are leaving because they can't afford to live here anymore. All the numbers show a migration of families from Manhattan into the surrounding more affordable areas. We need responsible leadership who will reign in the spending and make Manhattan affordable again so we can continue to enjoy the diverse and inclusive population we have in the years to come.
Editor’s Note: All candidates were provided identical questions. All candidates were given identical time limits for response submissions. Responses were limited to 300 words per question. Candidate responses are published as written, up to 300 words. Only candidates choosing to respond will be profiled.