Campaign Statement
Idaho First Idaho Strong
Campaign Phone
208-251-9303
Campaign Email
jim.baltar@hotmail.com
Phone
208-251-9303
Office Sought
State Senate District 28
I have tried for two years to get our Presidential primary back together with all down ticket races. I have successfully passed this through the senate twice, but the house won't give the legislation a hearing. It makes no sense to have a caucus with sub 7 % turnout while at the same time leaving voters out of the process, including service members, the elderly and those out of the state. Further it will save the state over 2.5 million dollars by combining. I have also passed legislation in the senate to limit the session length and number of bills an individual legislator can bring. This will allow more focus on what's important and save the state money as well. These ideas were also not considered in the house.
It has been an honor to serve my community, school district, county and legislative district in several different capacities. Each opportunity presents unique challenges, and I have grown as a decision maker because of that diversified service. I believe those experiences coupled with my commonsense approach to problem solving position me to be a strong advocate for this part of the state.
I have great respect for local control and understand the importance of our elected officials at all levels. One size does not fit all because local jurisdictions have differing personalities, needs, budgets and economies. I am very appreciative of the rural nature of Idaho and as such place a high value on the unique personality of our state.
The issues I hear most about are inflation, coping with growth, property taxes, and concerns about education and water. Certainly, there are many other issues. As we promote growth, let’s not sell Idaho short by giving away the farm at the risk of losing our farms.
At the state level we have appropriated money to help mitigate ever increasing property taxes, but they remain an issue. In my opinion we have placed too much focus on cutting income tax rates and instead should have placed more importance on the property tax dilemma. I have supported water conservation and recharge efforts, and this work needs to continue. Our commitment to education cannot waiver because our children are our future, and they need to be prepared.
I few years ago the Joint Finance and Appropriations Committee or JFAC changed the way they format budgets. As a result, it has become confusing, time consuming and counterproductive to good decision making. We must return to a more transparent process so Idaho citizens can see more clearly how their money is spent. Setting a balanced budget is the only thing we are required to do, and we desperately need to clean that up. I also believe we must place our focus on common sense policy that is good for Idaho and limit bills that provide for political grandstanding. The political division and infighting are not conducive to providing the best public service to our citizens.
Campaign Statement
Community at heart. Service in Action
YouTube Video
Campaign Phone
919-473-6516
Campaign Email
peaceforidaho@gmail.com
Phone
385-242-2460
Office Sought
Idaho State Senate D28
If elected to Idaho State Senate District 28, I will focus on strengthening budget transparency so constituents know exactly how their tax dollars are spent, supporting smart growth and infrastructure investments that keep our rural communities safe and thriving, and ensuring every voice is heard, especially those, all too often, left out of state-level decisions. My goal is a district that is fiscally responsible, welcoming, and responsive to all. By investing in education, expanding access to rural healthcare, protecting our agricultural heritage, and following through with service in action, we can create opportunities for families and children to learn, grow, and thrive in the communities we're proud to call home.
My career and volunteer experience have prepared me to serve effectively in the Idaho State Senate. Through the years I have worked in emergency and psychiatric medical services, disaster planning, and managed teams across both public and private sectors. My current career experience includes business and budget management, federal grant oversight, and service as a board member, treasurer, and city advisory board member. I've also volunteered with the Humane Society, Red Cross, multiple food pantries and shelters, Bannock County Search and Rescue, and foster care support. These hands-on, real life experiences have shaped who I am in leadership, accountability, vision and compassion. I am committed to serving with integrity and common sense.
District 28 faces real pressures: agricultural uncertainty, underfunded rural schools, a shortage of healthcare providers, and infrastructure that hasn't kept pace with growth. Too many families struggle to find affordable housing and a stable footing. I want to address these issues while ensuring that children of all ages and backgrounds have safe spaces to learn, and become tomorrow's leaders. I will advocate for equitable education funding, rural healthcare workforce solutions, and responsible development policies that protect both our agricultural economy and our quality of life. By focusing on these priorities, while also remaining flexible and adaptable as a leader, we can build a stronger, more connected district.
Public service is part of who I am. My father worked for the City of Pocatello for 42 years and was honored with a key to the city upon retirement. I carry that same loyalty and service to my community and prove this through my actions. I am dedicated to serving our State with integrity, accountability, and a strong work ethic. Most importantly, I will listen to your feedback on community matters, both the good and the bad, to assure that I am seeing all perspectives of our neighbors. I am not someone who sits idly by when I see injustice. I was taught to always defend the ones who can not defend themselves and to stand up for what is right, even if you’re standing alone. I hope you will stand with me.
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