James H. (Jim) Edwards has 40 years of real estate
development and redevelopment experience in both the public and private
sectors. In his hometown of Lakeland, Florida, he oversaw a $190 million (1990 $) redevelopment effort, turning around a blighted downtown in less than 8 years
as the director of both the Lakeland Downtown Development Authority and the Lakeland Community
Redevelopment Agency.
While director of the Hollywood, Florida community
redevelopment agency, he oversaw a $450 million redevelopment effort (2005 $). He has
personally built over 300,000 square feet of new development and has renovated
historic residences and an historic commercial property on speculation.
Edwards is known for accomplishing results and for his
extensive knowledge of urban and traditional neighborhood development and
design, his presentation skills, and his persistence.
Edwards holds a Master of Science in Planning from The
Florida State University where he received the APA Outstanding Student Award.
He also holds the A.I.C.P. Certification. Edwards earned a Bachelor of
Landscape Architecture from the University of Florida and is a Registered
Landscape Architect.