Jim Salzwedel prides himself on being someone who always does his homework. First elected to Lowell City Council in 2017, he says the time he takes to research and understand topics is part of what makes him a valuable member of the city’s governing body.
“I come prepared; I do due diligence on the agenda,” he explains. What’s more, he rarely misses meetings and says he isn’t afraid to disagree with others on the council.
After more than 31 years in the City of Wyoming, Salzwedel moved to Lowell – his wife’s hometown – in 2006. Once here, he decided he wanted to be involved in the community, and he quickly began volunteering. He is a past member of the Lowell Planning Commission and the current president of the Lowell Showboat VI Board. He has also been the city council representative on the Lowell Light & Power Board, LCTV Endowment Board and Arbor Board.
Salzwedel is one of five people – two incumbents and three challengers — running for three spots on Lowell City Council during this year’s general election on Nov. 7, 2023.
Front Porch Always Open to the Public
Describing himself as an “honest, laid-back guy,” Salzwedel is a retiree who enjoys golf and spending time with his family. He and his wife share three children, six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, and Salzwedel has put in time as a Little League coach among his other activities.
At 70, he is the oldest member of Lowell City Council and the oldest person in the race. He also isn’t on social media – something he understands has its drawbacks.
“I don’t get a whole lot of feedback direct from citizens,” he says, but he adds that his front porch is always open. “I’m open if they want to sit down and talk.”
During a career that spanned nearly 50 years, Salzwedel worked in the security industry and handled executive sales and accounts for firms such as Midwest Security and Allied Universal. He has been mentored by business leaders and mentored others himself. He notes his career experience translates into skills that allow him to effectively review budgets, make management decisions and problem-solve issues as a councilmember.
Top Priority: Water Issues
Salzwedel says he’s an independent voice on the council. “I don’t agree with a lot of things,” he says.
One example is the city’s current dilemma about how to handle increased demand on water and wastewater facilities that stems from growth in the township. “This is where I might feel different than the rest of the council,” he says.
While some may feel like the city should walk away from the negotiating table, “I don’t want to give up and say no to the township.” Salzwedel thinks it would be in both municipalities’ best interest to work together to resolve the issue, noting there could be cost savings for the city if it is able to share expenses for future equipment upgrades and replacements.
Salzwedel also would like to encourage more interaction between the public and council and recently took the lead on reinstating monthly Coffee with Council meetings. Occurring on the first Saturday of every month, these sessions are intended to provide an opportunity for residents to speak informally with councilmembers about whatever is on their mind. The meetings went on hiatus in May, but Salzwedel is bringing them back with an eye toward making sure that everyone who attends has a chance to speak and be heard.
He is also interested in ensuring all his colleagues on council are given a chance to take a leadership position. “I think everyone should be able to sit and run a meeting,” Salzwedel says, “just for the sake of knowing how to do it.”
When asked why people should vote for him, Salzwedel says: “I feel like I’m the best person for the job.” He notes that his career, life and council experience all ensure he is qualified to tackle whatever issues the city may face.
And if he doesn’t win, don’t expect him to disappear. “If I’m not elected, I’m going to be in the cheap seats,” Salzwedel says.
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