The City of Waco is currently experiencing a period of strong economic growth, and I will continue to use my financial operations management experience to bring a business approach to Council issues. I believe that City Government should do the best it can to establish and maintain a business environment where all businesses [large and small] can thrive, and a social environment where all residents can succeed, regardless of age, race, gender, color, or religion.
Jim’s Goals for Waco
My five primary goals for Waco include:
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT:
In my time on Council, the City has attracted over 40 new businesses, $4 Billion of new investment, and 4,500 new jobs. These new businesses provide higher paying jobs for our residents, expand the City’s tax base, and create a ripple effect in the local economy that benefits all Wacoans. The City is also working to improve Quality of Life with a focus on parks and trails improvements throughout Waco.
LOWER TAX RATES AND IMPROVED OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY:
City Tax Rates have not been raised in my time on council; and the City has materially increased the Exemptions for Homesteads and for Homeowners “Over 65”, which benefitted 80% of all Waco residents. The City’s operational processes are constantly being reviewed and improved, allowing for a more efficient delivery of City services.
IMPROVED STREETS AND UTILITIES INFRASTRUCURE:
I am committed to delivering good streets and sidewalks for the City, as well as dependable water, wastewater, and solid waste services. Budgets have necessarily increased in response to needed infrastructure repairs and improvements in our City. I will continue to be intentional, efficient, and thoughtful as we upgrade Waco’s infrastructure.
STRONG POLICE AND FIRE PROTECTION:
Waco’s crime rate is the lowest in over 30 years. Our investment in both the Police and Fire Departments has focused on better law enforcement presence, relational policing, faster fire response times, and overall improved safety for Waco residents. The City has incorporated Behavioral Health practices in order to provide a more efficient delivery of safety services.
REVITALIZATION OF DOWNTOWN WACO:
Downtown Waco is again becoming a source of pride for the City, as visitors from all over the world engage in the Waco experience. Strategic public/private projects downtown have generated a new Baylor Basketball Pavilion area, over 400 new living units on University Parks, a half-dozen new hotels, new restaurants and night life, and a vibrant public arts scene.