Q&A with Frisco Candidate: James Hayes Walsh

SAVRM
March 11, 2022

Q1

How long have you lived in the town you're campaigning in?

  • 4 to 6 years

Q2

What is your occupation?

Property Manager

Q3

What experience qualifies you for a town council position?

5 years managing HOA's in Frisco.  Owner and manager of commercial warehouse in Baton Rouge,  Louisiana.  Leased and developed commercial property in Marin County, California.Spent 100's of hours discussing housing with residents while circulating Frisco Housing Petition.

Q4

What changes would you like to see in Summit County? Your town?

I would like to see as many solutions as possible brought directly to the public for voting.  Our county should be a reflection of the majority consensus will of the residents.In Frisco, I would like to see a focus on public transportation.  There will never be fewer people and we need to create local transportation solutions that are effective, efficient, comfortable and free to incentivize use.

Q5

What is your experience with vacation rentals?

Onsite manager and direct contact for owners of two HOA's totaling 43 units.

Q6

What impact do you feel the vacation rental industry has in Summit County? Your town?

I think the vacation rental industry has a strong lobby that has the potential to subvert the will of residents.  I think allowing the community a mechanism to participate in forming policy is far more likely to result in meaningful solutions than a small council of individuals.  Obviously, the vacation rental industry is the lifeblood of our economy.  But the proliferation of short term rental technology has changed the game and we need to decide if there is a line to be drawn between subsidizing an investment property and operating a commercial enterprise.  I believe there is a line and it should be drawn by residents at the ballot box.

Q7

How do you feel about the current taxes in place for vacation rentals? Do you think more should be added? Do you think any should be reduced?

I only support increased taxes when there is an objective metric that the majority of the community agrees.  Allowing the public to vote on specific legislation is the solution.  People here are smart and have a range of opinions that encompass a full spectrum of thought.  We should look to them for solutions.

Q8

Do you believe we have a workforce housing problem in Summit County? And, if so: what are your suggestions to increase workforce housing?

Yes, the problem is that workers cannot afford housing.  I believe the best solution is to create public transportation solutions that allow workers to live and recreate without needing a car.  Workers who do not have a car note, maintenance costs, gas costs and insurance will have more money for rent.  Furthermore, it's a free market and businesses will eventually have to pay a wage that allows employees to afford housing.

Q9

Are there any other key issues on your campaign platform that you would like to share with us?

I want to return the Main Street Promenade in Frisco.  The promenade is a highly desirable amenity that makes our community uniquely livable.  I believe an annual promenade running June through September will increase property value and make Frisco a better place to live.