Listening. Accountability. Smart Planning.
My Plan for Strengthening Discipline, Transparency, and Trust:
Fiscal Discipline & Budget Transparency
Taxes have increased more than 17% in the past three years, while debt service has grown about 8% per year since 2019.
Residents deserve a clear picture of where we stand and where we’re headed, because responsible and transparent planning means fewer surprises and better long-term stability.
If elected, I will insist that we answer the hard financial questions in public, with facts, data, and full transparency.
As Council Member, I will advocate for the following reforms:
A standing City Council Finance & Debt Subcommittee focused on long-term liabilities, borrowing, and capital planning.
An easy-to-understand quarterly financial report and online dashboard summarizing total debt, major cost drivers, labor obligations, and multi-year projections.
Independent and public financial and legal reviews of long-term fiscal impacts before major borrowing, redevelopment agreements, or other long-term financial commitments are approved.
Comparisons to similar shore communities to benchmark spending, staffing, and debt levels.
Smart, Responsible Growth
Ocean City has experienced dramatic changes in housing, real estate prices, and tourism. Too often this has happened without a clear strategy from the city itself.
This has resulted in pressure on working residents, rising costs, parking challenges, and shifts in the character of our tourism economy.
We can grow and prosper while protecting the family-friendly identity that makes Ocean City special, if we follow a smart strategy.
As Council Member, I will advocate for the following reforms:
Independent public impact studies before any major zoning or redevelopment decisions that outline their traffic, parking, infrastructure, and other impacts.
A long-term infrastructure and parking strategy that aligns with development.
Thoughtful property use decisions that protect neighborhood character.
Balanced economic development, including activating underutilized areas like the north end of the Boardwalk
Policies that preserve Ocean City’s family-friendly identity while supporting local merchants.
Open Government & Public Engagement
City government should invite participation, not limit it. Important decisions should never be made without meaningful dialogue and transparency.
As Council Member, I will advocate for the following reforms:
Regularly scheduled public Town Halls outside of formal Council meetings to encourage genuine dialogue about the future of Ocean City.
Clear written explanations of my votes on major issues so residents understand not just how I voted, but why.
Adequate review time before major votes involving debt, redevelopment, or large expenditures, so that residents and Council members alike can fully understand their implications.
Protecting and encouraging public comment in Council meetings.
“I’ve had the privilege of working with Jim for over 25 years. He consistently demonstrates integrity, steady leadership, and a genuine commitment to our company. His contributions continually strengthen our organization.”
Pam Matschat
Director of Strategy Programs
Erickson Senior Living