Hello, I’m Jim Addis and I’m running for State Representative in District 4, Seat A. I’d like to tell you a little about myself because I believe hard work and experience matter to folks in Coeur d’Alene.

I’ve worked some tough jobs, like many of you, through some tough times. I’ve shown up early and stayed late, met deadlines, and did what it took to get the job done.  Whether I was making and delivering pizzas for Domino’s, bucking hay bales, harvesting lentils, logging, pulling long restaurant shifts, getting through a day on the marine fuel dock, or helping design parts for a Kenworth truck, I took them seriously but also had fun. I worked hard while getting myself through school, earning two degrees from Washington State University in Business and Economics. Utilizing my education and background as a reference, I’ll work to create opportunities for the next generation by providing wider access to viable choices in education important for future college and career technical success.

While working with Beatrice Foods, I oversaw logistics of consumer product delivery, store placement, and developed deep working relationships with our partners to better understand their needs. This work ensured many name brand items were available on the shelves in your local stores at prices working families could afford. I took time to listen, create relationships, and collaborate with each store as we worked together for shared success. This is the same approach and focus I’ll take with me to Boise.

Next was a 13-year career at Gregg Industries, a world class iron foundry. After 13 years, I’m well-versed in metallurgy, melting iron, mold making, and advanced quality control processes. A Large iron foundry, Gregg Industries, was a key manufacturing supplier for numerous core industries in the U.S. The lynchpin for success for many sectors in our economy is accessible iron castings for sub-assemblies. One hiccup at the foundry makes for trouble down the line for ‘Mom and Pop’ just trying to earn a living … just like what we often see with decisions out of Boise. I’ll do what it takes to make informed decisions that will support local commerce and our small businesses here in Coeur d’Alene, not make it harder to compete.

I eventually joined the family business overseeing Tom Addis Dodge and Lake City Ford Lincoln 18 years ago. Our businesses successfully created 165 jobs supporting families in our community. After years of hard work, I’ve been humbled to be viewed as a leader and asked to participate in a handful of various auto trade related boards and councils. I served two terms as President of the Idaho Automobile Dealers Association. I’m proud to have assisted in the legislative process, helping pass specific legislation geared to help small business compete against out-of-state manufacturers. This legislation created jobs, increased wages, and improved healthcare coverage for our citizens throughout Idaho.

I’ve served on the board of Concerned Businesses of North Idaho, advocating our local area and economy. As an organization, we worked together for a common goal: lower taxes for both citizens and businesses while improving the quality of life in our community. We were successful. I’ll be employing this same collaborative strategy working towards shared goals when representing the 4th District.

Coeur d’Alene has always been generous in spirit. It’s a community trait that makes us unique. Our family supports our community and we give back when we can. My wife and I are long-time residents of Coeur d’Alene. We enjoy raising our daughter Kendra, who is attending North Idaho College, and we love being involved in our community, especially through service work. Nonprofits can change lives, filling voids where it is needed most.  Whether it’s time, resources, or working together to lead to achieved success, nonprofits have my unwavering respect for the assistance they provide. I’m proud to have served on leadership boards for groups like The EXCEL Foundation, the Boys and Girls Club of North Idaho, Coeur d’Alene Rotary, Coeur d’Alene Backpack Program, the Kootenai Humane Society Capital Campaign, and St. Vincent de Paul. I’m happy to support other groups in town because ‘it’s the Coeur d’Alene way,” a value I’d like to share with the rest of Idaho.

After selling our business, a door has opened for me to continue serving our community, this time representing the 4th Legislative District’s interests in Boise. I look forward to working with state and local leaders to ensure our businesses and students can compete on a national level … and win. I’ll continue to work for the benefit of Coeur d’Alene, not just repeat rhetoric, just as my track record illustrates.

I’m a hard-working qualified candidate asking for your vote. I’m a common-sense thinker with a diverse background that is needed in Boise. I know the key to Idaho’s future lies in a strong economy, supported by excellence in all forms of education, comprehensive healthcare coverage, and a business climate that ensures prosperity for all.

My name is Jim Addis. I hope to earn your trust, and then … I hope to earn your vote for Legislative District 4 Seat A this November. There are opportunities ahead and it’s time to roll up our sleeves!