Three decades ago James "Jim" Boyes and his wife, Maria, chose to settle in Westfield because of its charming neighborhoods, active downtown, and great schools. Today he is running for Ward 1 Town Council to help maintain that vision of community.

“Fiscal management, responsible development, maintenance of municipal infrastructure - in short, planning for the future is the essence of what town council should be about,” Jim says. “By creating our first Master Plan in years we will enact a vision for the town that reflects the values of Westfield. I am excited to join my fellow residents who are working to proactively plan for the future rather than just reacting to each new emergency.”

Jim began his career in environmental consulting and now works for Arch Insurance Group managing risk. Throughout his time in Westfield, Jim has been active in the community. In 2001, he was chosen by then Mayor Greg McDermott to serve on the Parking Advisory Committee. Since then, Jim has been a fixture at town council meetings and a reliable resource whenever volunteers are needed.

Jim currently serves as district captain for the Ward 1 Neighborhood Watch and volunteers for the Mayor’s Green Team. As a town councilman, Jim will apply his skills analyzing data to mitigate risk. “I’ve witnessed many firms go under due to their inability to plan properly. Towns must similarly plan wisely to ensure long-term growth and viability.”

Jim and Maria have raised two sons and a daughter. Maria is an active volunteer in town, serving as chair of the Historic Preservation Commission. Jim has a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering from the University of Massachusetts in Amherst, and is a Certified Property and Casualty Underwriter (CPCU). On the weekends, you can find him restoring his 100 year old house, riding his motorcycle, and organizing an adult soccer run.

Email Jim Boyes.