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.