Jim Ravan, Nashua Ward 1 Alderman Candidate

Jim Ravan

Age (as of Election Day)

75

Position sought (including district number if applicable)

Alderman Ward 1

Party Affiliation

Democrat

Family

My wife and myself.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

My wife is a current NH State Representative for Ward 1.

Education

Bachelor and Master of Arts, Ohio State University

Occupation

I spent a half century in high tech software engineering. I am currently retired.

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

None

Campaign website

jimravanfornh.com

Why are you seeking elective office?

I moved to Nashua in 1980. I worked in high tech in the city, but I moved away in 2013 to live in Lowell with my new bride, but still working here. When I retired in 2020, my wife and I moved back to Nashua.

Yes, I loved living here so much I came back. Those of you who remember “Nashua Pride” understand. This city was voted the best place to live in America. For any city in the country, that would be quite an accomplishment. But we received that honor not once, but twice! And we’re still winning awards and accolades. Why?

Because, while Nashua is the second largest city in our state, it still feels like a small town. Kids walk to school, kids can play outside, people walk down the street holding hands, friends jog in groups. But while Nashua is nationally recognized as a great city, for all of us who live here, Nashua is a great community.

And because I love it here and I want to strengthen our community, I’m running for Alderman in Ward 1.

The single most pressing issue facing our (board, district, etc.) is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

In my opinion, economic pressure is the primary issue. The Board of Aldermen can start to ease the stress of Nashuans by exploring ways to reduce property taxes and incentivize responsible residential development.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I have significant life experience upon which to draw.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform.

Supporting Nashua's Workers: We need to take care of those who take care of us; Nashua's fire fighters, police officers, and teachers must be fairly and equitably for compensated for their work.

Building and Maintaining Community: Investing in public infrastructure -- from our schools to our roads to our libraries -- is key to ensuring Nashua is a great place to live and work. Fostering community also requires us to show compassion for and talk with our neighbors, regardless of their race, sex, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or political leanings.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I am a 35 year resident of Nashua. During my career in technology, I acquired extensive management experience leading software teams of various sizes; one spanned the globe. I have also served on Boards of Directors of several nonprofits, including mental health and the arts, focusing on financial management and planning.

I spent my entire professional career working in the high-tech industry. It taught me many things: how to work hard (I’ve slept under my desk many nights over the years), how to meet a deadline, how to craft achievable plans, how to work with people, and how to lead them.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Two things, both from my Mom: "You're going to college", my college education changed my life, and "Hard work pays off", nothing worthwhile is ever easy.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

Ward 1 needs a strong voice in the Aldermanic chamber. I can be that voice. And in the true meaning of public service, I want to be that voice. Come to Broad Street Elementary School and vote on November 7th.