EXPERTISE

Jim is a recognized expert on the building and real estate industry with an intimate understanding of the real estate marketplace. With nearly two decades of building experience, Jim can speak from “in-the-trenches” experience about the late 80’s upswing, the early 90’s downturn, and the resurgence of optimism in the housing market that has carried the economy over the past several years.

Because of Jim’s knowledge and commitment to smart growth and land use law he has been asked to speak or participate in numerous related conferences and discussions. He understands the principles of smart growth and how those principles promote economic growth while protecting and planning for the environment. Jim also understands the role long-term infrastructure planning has in the process and the need for local governments to modify their zoning ordinances and land use codes to make smart growth possible. Most importantly, Jim understands the impact consumer choice has on success of a long-term development plan. Smart growth must incorporate the need for affordable workforce housing, a philosophy that Jim is both an advocate of and voice for.

Jim has shared his comprehensive views and expertise at meetings of:

• NYS Quality Communities Interagency Task Force Panelist, Hudson Valley Regional Roundtable

• The Atlantic Builders Conference

• The Land Use Center (BOCES)

• Orange County Municipal Planning Federation

• Orange County Chamber of Commerce,
Smart Growth Communities

• Guest speaker for Pattern-For-Progress - Greater Hudson Valley Initiative program

• Lorman Education Services Instructor for "Plat and Subdivision Law"

His comments on regional planning, workforce housing, sprawl, smart growth and the impact of the economy on the building profession have frequently appeared in daily newspapers such as The Times Herald Record, as well as in trade magazines like Builder Association News and Builder & Remodeler.