“The next election for Talbot County Council will drive the future of the county more than some may realize,” said Jim Bruce upon announcing his candidacy for the council. The council sets budgets and approves laws that govern our everyday life; and, as he pointed out, “They also have other lesser-known roles that are fundamental in planning for the future.”
Jim Bruce
“This is a critical time for the Talbot County Council. The next council will oversee the drafting of and adopt a new 10-year comprehensive plan, Talbot County’s blueprint for the next decade,” he elaborated and also pointed out, “Only two of the five incumbents are running, which could also make this election a game-changer for the county and its future – whether policy is related to development, education, police, or firefighters.”
The Talbot County Planning Commission determines what is and is not consistent with the comprehensive plan. Jim wants voters to have confidence that our county council members will make good appointments to our planning commission and “ going forward will work in good faith with them to make sure that our carefully vetted comprehensive plan is honored.”
Jim grew up in Richmond, VA. He attended public schools there. He later earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in aerospace and mechanical engineering at Princeton University, defraying those costs with scholarships, part-time jobs, a graduate teaching assistantship, and by joining the ROTC.
Honorably discharged from the U.S. Army as a captain, he met his wife, Carol, at George Washington University law school. Married for 49 years, they raised three children in the Washington D.C. area.
Residing now in St Michaels in the home they bought 11 years ago, Jim feels, “The best way I can make a meaningful contribution to the place I’m so blessed to call home is to offer my hard work and unique skill set to support the council and responsive democratic government in Talbot County.”
Jim is asking residents what issues concern them most. Climate change, rising energy prices, internet access, education, development and wastewater treatment are topping lists. As an engineer, lawyer, and consultant who has served as senior counsel for the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, chief energy policy officer at UPS Global Government Affairs, and more recently as owner of his own energy policy consulting company, he is eager to assist in addressing these and any other issues where his experience and knowledge might contribute to positive outcomes for Talbot County.
Contact Jim at [email protected], or visit his website at jimbrucefortalbotcc.com.
Gerry Early says
He looks like an outstanding candidate. However, it would be helpful to know if he (and all others included in this series) is running as Democrat/Republican/Independent.
edward sclichter says
Come on Editor, what’s his party affiliation…that should be in his write up as well as any other candidate !
Editor says
Mr. Bruce is a Democrat. This was a press release sent to us by his campaign. We regret the omission. Every candidate and their party affiliation can be seen on this website
https://elections.maryland.gov/elections/2022/primary_candidates/gen_cand_lists_2022_3_by_county_21.html
jeff morton says
Does it really matter what his party affiliation is? Far too many people will base their vote on party rather than qualities.
Margot McConnel says
How refreshing to have someone with these qualities willing to help lead Talbot County into the future. Thank you sir.
Michael Pullen says
Jim Bruce is an exceptional candidate. Whether we’re Republicans or Democrats, we’d all be fortunate to have him on the County Council. He’s a natural leader, a team player with wonderful skills, a refreshing sense of dedication to the public good, and not least, great good humor. Just the kind of person we need on the Council.
Chip Meyers says
I worked with Jim Bruce for over a decade at UPS. His candidacy is a gift to Talbot county. Regardless of being a Democrat, Republican, or independent, you want to elect Jim Bruce. His work ethic, intelligence, compassion, desire to do what’s right, makes me wish he was running for elected office where I lived. I will make a contribution to support Jim Bruce and urge others to do the same. It’s a great investment for everyone’s future. America needs more Jim Bruce’s in public service.