Michael James, Neighbor

A native Sonoman who devotes time and energy to advocating for enhacing the cities sense of community as well as balancing the cities 'wine country destination' marketing image with genuine recognition and appreciation for all the families and their liveliehoods which built Sonoma. 

The perspective is that of a native Sonoman who spent most of his youth in Sonoma and then, beginning with college, worked and lived 'urban' for 40 years - returning 'home' frequently to be with family and friends. In returning to 'home' five years ago he views his city with the eyes of a native/'old Sonoma family' as well as the perspective of a well traveled 'newbie'.

Michael's career involved union organizing, state of Callifornia labor neutral, union executive, professional labor negotiator, and human resources management executive.