James D. Urry jokingly responded that he “was running for the money” when asked why. This was in reference to the minimal compensation city council members receive for their voluminous time spent on behalf of the citizenry. More seriously, he responded that “I can’t crab about it if I don’t’ get involved.” Mr. Urry has resided in North Ogden City (NOC) for over 40 years and served on previous City councils under former Mayors Don Colvin and Bruce Dursteller.
With over 35 years in the marketing department of local banks, he sees “growth as the biggest challenge… and how to do it without taxing the residents to death.” He believes “impact fees are a way to fund new growth and upgrade the system” with new property development. He sees Hwy 89 in Pleasant View and 2700 North as the most realistic area for big retail outlet developments. Otherwise, he sees growth with smaller “Mom & Pop” or, independently owned and operated businesses as the more likely opportunities. Jim believes in pursuing “privatizing services” whenever it is more “economically possible.” He thinks the blighted areas where the old Macy and King stores were located need development, and referenced a vision for an “indoor craft mall” for local talent to lease space and display their goods as a possibility.
In response to the pending Public Works Facility, Jim feels we should “build as we can without any bonding.” He likes the idea of building in a modular fashion and wants the City to “pay cash as we go.”
