Jim comes from a family with deep roots in South Akron and Kenmore. Born and raised in Firestone Park, his mother and grandmother both retired after full careers as Akron Public School teachers. His late father and grandfather were both small business owners. One, a beloved neighborhood dentist, the other, owner of Cardinal Printing. This up-bringing is where he traces back his commitment to community and public service.

His family moved to Green at the age of 13 where he attended and graduated from Green High School and Kent State University. At the age of 23 he heeded the calling of public service  and was elected to Green City Council as the representative for ward one. After serving one, unexpired 2-year term and two consecutive full 4-year terms he had reached the end of the term limitations, serving a total of 10 full years on Council.

Since leaving Green Council, Jim became the luckiest man in the world when he married his talented and lovely wife Diana. He has continued to concentrate his career on service to the community, having spent time working for the Stark County Community Action Agency and, for the past 6 years, with his current employer Summit County Executive, Ilene Shapiro. His primary focus has been working with the low-income, disabled and disadvantaged communities.

Jim is excited and eager to share his ideas and vision for Ohio with the citizens and small businesses of the 32nd House District. Leveraging his experience in local government, he is confident he can be the consensus-minded advocate our citizens deserve in the State House.

Click on the “Get Involved” tab to find out how you can help Jim on his journey.