Realtor Jim Shirk files for Ward 4 supervisor seat

Carson City Realtor Jim Shirk filed Monday to run against Molly Walt for the Carson City Board of Supervisors Ward 4 seat.

Shirk, 61, who has lived in Carson City for more than 20 years, said he became involved in the community while arranging for a World Trade Center memorial in Carson City.

"My experience with the World Trade Center (project) got me involved in working with so many departments and the mayor, and it was very gratifying for me to see something accomplished for the greater good," Shirk said. "That's what led me to think about doing this."

In a statement, he outlined his concerns about Carson City's future.

"The next four years, there will be major decisions that will directly impact citizens and business in our community," he said. "The future of Carson City is very personal to me as a citizen, parent and business person."

He said he is committed to supporting appropriate economic developments that do not create long-term debt.

"It's very important for the community to realize the (City Center) Project is simply not the catalyst, nor the solution for education or jobs," Shirk said.

"The donation being made by the Nugget is very generous, and this project remains very achievable sometime in the future. Meantime, we need to be supporting our existing businesses because this can only assist in bringing new employment to our region, if and when the project is completed."

Shirk said he will focus on promoting a compelling reason for people and businesses to come to Carson City as a destination.

"Starting with the recent economic impact report that reflects a $16 million revenue generator - sports tourism - this should be our immediate priority," he said.

"Our community's strengths and weakness, such as quality-of-life amenities, infrastructure and workforce skill determine the potential of our local economy and will help to support our economic growth," Shirk said.

"My goals are to identify and deal with our community needs, issues and priorities by partnering with local agencies, business and citizens and to make decisions that reflect the true interests and needs of our community," he said.

Shirk said his knowledge and understanding of the community stems from his real estate business experience.

"I gained the insight about the different perspectives of why people move here and, more importantly, why people stay here," he said.

Shirk is a member of the Carson City Planning Commission and the Carson City Cultural Commission.