Meet:
James Kole
Laurel City Council, Ward 1
City Councilmember / Council President
I am excited to be endorsed by Forward. Until very recently, I was unaware that there was an actual third party that aligned with my views, leading me to believe the only way I could be a voice not beholden to a party, was to remain unaffiliated.
James Kole is a Landscape Professional with a Bachelor of Science Degree from Penn State University. He has a strong passion for helping others. James was elected to the City Council in Laurel, MD in 2021, where he has served two terms as President Pro Tempore, as well as chaired multiple City committees. James firmly believes that all elected officials should represent ALL citizens and work together with other officials to solve the issues facing their communities.
He is an independent and running for re-election to Laurel City Council, Ward 1. He wanted endorsement by the Maryland Forward Party because he strongly believes in Voting Reform and wants more political voices aside from the duopoly. Because he is an independent, James is considered our first Forwardist incumbent!
Policy Objectives
Continued Fiscal Responsibility
Enhanced Environmental Sustainability Initiatives
Continued Commitment to Public Safety
Believes that all elected officials should work together collaboratively to come up with solutions that meet the needs of all residents.
Background
Two term President Pro Tempore of the Laurel City Council.
Chairman of the Laurel Environmental Affairs Committee and Laurel Pride Day Planning Committee.
Former Commissioner on the City of Laurel Ethics Commission.
Former Board Member for the Board of Directors for the Landscape Contractors Association of MD/DC/VA.
Canvassed for Vote 6 in 2012 to pass Marriage Equality through popular vote in the State of Maryland.
Education
Penn State University Alumni (BS in Landscape Contracting, Design/Build)