Where did you grow up?

• My late father was an enlisted Vietnam-era Army veteran who dedicated 20 years of honorable service to his country. His commitment to the military shaped my upbringing, making me a proud military brat. Born in Germany, I spent my first three years there before our family relocated. My older sister—my only sibling—was born in New York, and together, we spent our early years on military bases, where I developed a deep admiration for the military and everything it represented. When my father retired in Georgia, that became the place where I spent most of my growing-up years.

• One of the most impactful lessons from my childhood was the genuine camaraderie within military housing. When I say that kids don’t see color, my experience is my proof. Latino, Asian, Black, White, and interracial—we played together without a second thought about race. All we knew was friendship, shared adventures, and the bonds we formed.

• The transient nature of military life meant frequent moves, and by the time I graduated high school, I had attended nine schools from kindergarten through 12th grade. My passion for the military led me to earn an AFROTC scholarship and pursue my education at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville—where I also met my wife, Sharon. We married after graduation at my first assignment.

• I proudly served in the Air Force for 10 years before transitioning to the private sector to build stability and put down roots. My military career spanned three states, numerous TDYs, and deployments—all incredible experiences alongside exceptional people.

What brought you to Shakopee?

• My journey to Shakopee began with a trip from Knoxville, TN to Oklahoma, where my entire family accompanied me for an interview with my current employer. The process spanned two days—starting with an all-day interview on Friday and ending Saturday afternoon with a casual gathering at Chuck E. Cheese alongside my future boss and our families. Those two days made it clear that this company was far from ordinary.
• The following week, I received an offer, which I gladly accepted. Eager to settle down, I moved to Oklahoma, purchased a home, and embraced the new chapter. However, within two years, I was informed that the Oklahoma location was closing. Fortunately, I was offered a position in Shakopee, MN, marking the next step in my journey

What is your day job/career/profession?

• Many people are surprised to learn that I hold a doctorate in electrical engineering. While my LinkedIn profile provides most of the details, one thing remains constant—I’ve been with my current employer for over 24 years. Why such longevity? The work is always challenging, my colleagues are phenomenal, and I take great pride in contributing to a finished product that’s used worldwide. My career journey has truly been a blessing.
• Why Engineering? As a child, I was fascinated by science. I also had a deep love for reading, especially encyclopedias—our generation’s version of the internet. Much of my time was spent in libraries or browsing the bookmobile, which was essentially a bookstore on wheels.
• I had an insatiable curiosity for how things worked, constantly taking things apart and eagerly receiving chemistry sets or erector sets from Santa Claus. Back then, chemistry sets contained now-banned chemicals, and parental supervision was minimal—how my friends and I emerged unscathed, only God knows.
• Science fiction played a major role in shaping my imagination. Shows like Space: 1999 and Star Trek captivated me, while Friday night’s Creature Feature delivered a dose of delightfully cheesy sci-fi. Those films—sometimes over-the-top, sometimes thought-provoking—only strengthened my curiosity about what could be possible beyond the limits of reality.
• At the time, I didn’t truly know what an engineer was, but looking back, I was already on the path to becoming one. Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) education and careers are my passion. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to share that passion by serving as an adjunct professor at four colleges. I’ve also been actively involved in volunteering with the State Science Fair, Career Days, and STEM-focused community engagement programs through my employer, helping to inspire future innovators.

What would you consider to be a pivotal political influence in your life?

• I wasn’t involved in politics until I attended a local caucus in 2015. That night, I met Mrs. Mulcrone, the Precinct 3 captain, who has since become both a mentor and a cherished family friend. She encouraged me to run for the role of Precinct 3 captain at the next caucus.
• The most rewarding part of my political journey has been engaging with people—both within the city and across the state. I firmly believe that there’s always something to learn if you take the time to listen with an open mind rather than dismissing different perspectives

When were you elected to the Shakopee City Council?

• I was elected to the council in November 2022 on my second attempt.

What motivated you to run for a seat on the city council?

• No one enters politics on a whim—it’s a decision that defies logic. You expose yourself to both criticism and praise, knowing that every choice you make will please some, frustrate others, or go unnoticed by those who remain unaware of your work. It’s a full-time commitment, but more than that, it’s an honor and extraordinary privilege to serve the residents who entrust you with their voice.
• In 2018, I decided to run for city council— because I felt my neighborhood’s voice wasn’t being heard. Some might call that a cliché; I call it reality. Until a three-story apartment building was approved just 30 feet from my neighbor’s fence line, my political involvement was limited to yard signs, donations, and attending local caucuses.
• Frustrated by the planning commission and council’s decision on the apartment complex, I realized I wasn’t the only one who had ever felt unheard. That moment solidified my decision: I would run for city council. If elected, I would ensure residents had a voice and that their concerns would not be ignored.
• As I analyzed council voting records, a clear pattern emerged. Over 12 months and 23 meetings, there were 17 instances of 4-1 votes—decisions that reshaped neighborhoods and created bond debt. The lone opposing vote on debt and resident concerns at the time was council member Matt Lehman. It was evident that many neighborhoods were being marginalized, reinforcing my commitment to stand up for the residents of this city.

What is your role on the council/what does a city councilman do?

• City council members in Shakopee, MN, play a crucial role in shaping the community. Their responsibilities include:
  • Adopting and Enforcing Ordinances: Establishing and upholding local laws for the well-being of residents.
  • Setting Public and Administrative Policies: Guiding city operations and services to meet community needs.
  • Creating Boards and Commissions: Forming specialized groups to address important local issues.
  • Managing Financial Operations: Overseeing tax levies, budget approvals, audits, and municipal funding.
• While these duties are fundamental, my primary focus remains on listening to residents and enhancing their quality of life—whether through low property taxes, well-maintained green spaces, outstanding public safety, reliable public works, or ensuring their voices are heard.
• One of the most humbling aspects of this role is knowing that many residents don’t realize who their council members are until they have a concern about their neighborhood or the city. That’s why being accessible and engaged is so important.

What is something city council members do that the public may not realize?

• Each council member has a unique set of additional duties that are assigned by the Mayor. Beyond my council duties, I also serve as the chair of the Highway 169 Corridor Coalition and as a Shakopee Public Utilities (SPU) Commissioner—two roles I deeply enjoy.
• The 169 Corridor Coalition brings together cities, counties, and other stakeholders to enhance safety, reduce congestion, and drive economic development along the US Highway 169 inter-regional corridor.
• Since its inception, the coalition has advocated for and supported key projects, including:
  • US 169 / TH 282 / CR 9 Project Update (Scott County)
  • Sand Creek Township Overpass Project Update (Sand Creek Township)
  • TH 169 / CH 41 / CH 14 Project (Scott County)
• This is not an exhaustive list—completed, ongoing, and upcoming priorities can be found on their website, with far too many projects to list here!
• As an SPU Commissioner, I help guide policies and long-term planning for our utility. Shakopee boasts the lowest electric rates compared to neighboring cities and one of the most reliable electrical infrastructures in the region. Our focus remains on responsible growth, ensuring that future expansion is well-planned and sustainable.

What are you most proud of in your time on the city council?

• Advocating for residents is at the heart of what I do. When a resident reaches out with a concern, their voice matters. I take the time to listen, work with city staff to find solutions, and ensure they stay informed throughout the process.
• Why is resident advocacy my top priority? Philippians 2:3-4 reminds us, “In humility, value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of others.” And Matthew 22:39 teaches, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” These principles guide my approach to leadership and service.

What direction would you like to see Shakopee moving towards?

• Ensuring a reasonable and stable property tax remains a priority. Over the past two years, residents have experienced both a tax cut and an increase, the latter primarily due to a shortfall in the capital improvement fund. To support long-term financial stability, a necessary $500,000 levy adjustment was made. Despite the adjustment, Shakopee continues to uphold one of the lowest tax rates in comparison to many neighboring cities, reinforcing a commitment to balanced and predictable taxation.
• Ensuring growth pays for itself. Tax Increment Financing (TIF) and abatements can place an undue burden on current residents. While the long-term benefits of development can be debated, it’s essential that existing taxpayers are not left covering the costs of future residents’ services. Growth should be structured in a way that funds itself, rather than relying on those already living in the community.
• Supporting a free and open market. A thriving local economy depends on fair opportunities for all businesses. In my first year on the council, we attempted to repeal the flavored vape sales ban, but it failed by a 3-2 vote. Not long after, I took a photo of a going out of business sign posted on the doors of one of the affected businesses—an unfortunate result of the ban.

What has changed in your time on the city council that has improved the lives of the residents of Shakopee?

• There are many. I’ll only highlight three.
  • Major Business Expansions: Shakopee has seen significant growth with the arrival of large businesses, including the Walmart Distribution Center and GN, a global leader in hearing, audio, video, and gaming technology. These companies bring high-paying job opportunities, strengthening the local economy while helping to reduce the tax burden on residents through their contributions.
  • SandVenture Updates and Success: Following significant community feedback, the decision was made to update and preserve SandVenture. The results have been overwhelmingly positive—since the upgrade, the facility has generated $117,205 in pass sales, with a 255% increase in Punch Pass purchases (562 total) and a 216% increase in Season Pass sales (331 total) compared to last year.
  • Growth in Small Businesses: Local entrepreneurs continue to expand Shakopee’s offerings, with exciting new establishments like Soi21 and Drop Shot Pickleball providing fresh opportunities for recreation, dining, and entertainment. These businesses not only enrich community life but also draw visitors from neighboring cities, further strengthening our local economy.

If you had one request of residents as a city councilman, what would it be?

• Community engagement is essential, and there are several ways to make your voice heard—attending meetings, reaching out to council members by phone, or sending emails to all council members, especially during public hearings.
• We hold multiple public hearings to discuss the budget and taxes before the final levy is approved, yet no residents have attended these meetings since I’ve been on the council. The last tax increase passed by a 3-2 vote. Similarly, when we voted on a $66 million TIF, only two residents spoke—our former mayor in favor and a council candidate from the 2024 election cycle against. The measure ultimately passed 3-2.
• That said, email campaigns have proven highly effective. A recent example occurred just before the meeting to set social district boundaries—downtown business owners made their voices heard, advocating for inclusion. As a result, two districts were created, Canterbury and downtown. The motion passed unanimously (5-0).
• Your input can shape decisions that impact our city—make your voice count!

Have you held any other elected offices? This can include as a student or politically on a BPOU.

• The only other political roles I’ve held have been the honor of serving as a delegate or alternate for my local BPOU and serving as the Precinct 3 captain.

Is there anything about your immediate family you'd like to share? This could include who the members of your family are or if there are any family members that also hold public office.

• I have been happily married to Sharon Bryant DuLaney for over 35 years, and together we have three children—James III (JW), Christian, and Kendra.
• We are active members of The Father’s House Church in Burnsville, MN. I serve as a member of the media team, while my wife is part of the greeters ministry.
• Shakopee has been home to our family for over 20 years, and my wife has dedicated more than 10 years to education in the local school system.
• Our children continue to pursue their passions:
  • JW serves as a Lieutenant in the Army National Guard and continues to pursue a PhD in the sciences.
  • Christian remains deeply involved in Minnesota wrestling, coaching and mentoring the next generation of wrestlers.
  • Kendra is set to graduate with her Bachelor of Science in May 2025. Her passion is working with students on the autism spectrum.

• I am deeply honored to serve the residents of Shakopee and incredibly grateful for their continued support. Representing this vibrant and growing community is a privilege, and, God willing, I plan to run for a second term in 2026.

• I also want to recognize our dedicated city staff, whose professionalism, hard work, and commitment play a crucial role in making Shakopee a great place to live, work, and raise a family. Their efforts ensure that city services run efficiently and that residents can enjoy a high quality of life.

• As our city continues to expand, responsible development is more critical than ever. With an estimated population of over 48,400 residents and more to come, thoughtful planning will ensure that Shakopee remains a thriving, welcoming, and forward-thinking community for generations to come. By prioritizing smart growth strategies, we can preserve the city's character while fostering new opportunities for residents and businesses alike.