CIVIC
James is a three term Newburyport City Councilor and is currently in his second term as the City Council President. His fellow City Councilors have elected him President unanimously both times.
Currently serving as the Governor's appointee on the Newburyport Redevelopment Authority.
Served on the Strategic Land Use Committee and worked with numerous divergent groups to help create a landmark land use agreement using smart growth principals.
Worked with open space advocates for the successful acquisition of the Curzon Mill property and the Common Pasture.
Served on the Parking Task Force.
Served on the Site Selection and Fundraising Committees for the Newburyport Skate Park.
Co-lead the three year effort to design, raise funds and build the playground at Cashman Park.
Prior to moving to Newburyport, served on the Stoneham Conservation Commision.
BACKGROUND
James grew up in Portsmouth, N.H. and moved to Newburyport in 1995 with his wife Karen Battles. They have been married for 24 years.
EDUCATION
James started with a Major in Urban Planning at Lehigh University and graduated with a B.S. in Anthropology from Northeastern University in 1976. Also received a certificate in Commercial Photography from the New England School of Photography.
WORK
James was a freelance architectural photographer for thirteen years, until co-founding B Designs Inc in 1995. The company designs and prints a line of letterpress greeting cards, invitations and other paper products. B Designs currently has 20 independent sales representatives, more than 200 active retail accounts throughout the U.S. and a growing ecommerce component.
HOBBIES AND INTERESTS
Cycling
Saltwater fly-fishing
Cooking
Urban Planning
