Draft:James Cook (American Politician)

• Comment: Moust of the sources are routine coverage (see WP:ROUTINE) or simple interviews. Interviews are useful for Cook's own views, but they are not independent sources. This draft is also promotional.
  See also: WP:NPOLITICIAN Ca ^{talk to me!} 00:40, 19 November 2024 (UTC)

---

James Cook (American Politician)

Mayor Cook - Rock Hall Fourth of July Parade

James Cook is the mayor of Rock Hall, Maryland, elected in 2023. Cook served on the Rock Hall Town Council beginning in May of 2021. and was elected Mayor halfway through his four-year Council term..

Early Life and Education

James Cook was raised in Worton, Maryland, and is one of ten children . He holds degrees in business and engineering, along with a master’s degree in business and a master’s degree in project management. These qualifications have shaped his approach to addressing municipal challenges.

Professional Background

Cook is the Vice President of RAUCH Engineering, where he manages municipal and site development projects. Since 2020, he has also served as an adjunct instructor at Chesapeake College, teaching courses in drafting and design, architecture, and blueprint reading. He also promotes and volunteers for local trade and STEM organizations like ACE Mentor Program of America Program

Civic Involvement

Cook has been on the Board of Directors for the Maryland Municipal League since 2022 and served as president of the Eastern Shore Association of Municipalities from 2023-2024. He is also on the Board of Directors for the Rock Hall Volunteer Fire Company.

Mayoral Initiatives

Water and Wastewater Infrastructure

Cook has focused on modernizing Rock Hall’s water and wastewater systems . His administration has developed a multi-phase plan to replace aging infrastructure, with temporary measures like a mobile filtration system to improve water quality in the short term .

Haven Road Water Main Project

Cook secured an $800,000 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to replace deteriorating water mains on Haven Road. The project addresses long-standing water quality issues and is part of a larger infrastructure upgrade strategy .

Municipal Building Renovation

The old Rock Hall Municipal Building is being renovated under Cook’s leadership. The project involves demolishing structurally unsound parts of the building, retaining and renovating two wings, and creating a courtyard. A new library building may also be incorporated .

Economic Development and Education

Cook has established an Economic Development Committee to promote business growth . He is also advocating for a Chesapeake College satellite campus focusing on marine trades, as part of efforts to retain local talent and encourage economic development

Housing and Growth

Cook is promoting mixed-use developments and affordable housing to address Rock Hall’s reliance on seasonal tourism. By encouraging year-round economic activity, he aims to make the town more stable for residents and businesses

Personal Life

James Cook is a longtime resident of Kent County. He is not married and resides in Rock Hall with his two mini pigs, Tallulah and Fiona as of this writing.

See Also Rock Hall, Maryland Kent County, Maryland