I have owned Creative Procrastinations and Whimsical Necessities, on German Street for nine years. I am a renter in town and I speak for more than just myself, as I represent many of the younger residents of town who are planning to vote in this election.

Times are changing very quickly around Shepherdstown, so it is important to have a mayor who understands more than just our small town. James Gatz is that person – and worthy of your vote.

His training at the Lyndon B. Johnson School for Public Policy and his experience working for U.S. Conference of Mayors gives him the knowledge and experience to tackle the challenges we face, including rapid development.

Four-and-a-half years ago, he was among the founders of Shepherdstown Shares, which was created to meet the needs of the community during the coronavirus pandemic.

As Shepherdstown’s representative on the Jefferson County Development Association, he advocated for openness and for small business, because he understands the important role played by small business in building and maintaining community.

James listens. When I asked him to meet to discuss the position of mayor, he spent two hours with me, discussing issues affecting small businesses, renters and people of lower incomes – many of them employees of our small businesses.

I feel very strongly that James will be an excellent mayor who can find creative ways to help Shepherdstown navigate a period of change while preserving our community and identity.

I also have faith that, while there is time, our current mayor will share with James what he knows about the ins and outs of our government, so that we can move forward with the least disruption.

Emma Casale, owner of Creative Procrastinations & Whimsical Necessities