Economic development should not be viewed simply as growth for growth’s sake. It must serve a larger purpose: reducing pressure on residential taxpayers while creating long-term financial stability for Weber County.

For too long, local governments have relied too heavily on property taxes to fund essential services. That model is not sustainable for working families, retirees, or small businesses already facing economic pressure.

James Ebert believes the county must take a more strategic approach by expanding and diversifying the commercial tax base through responsible economic development.

Key Priorities

• Support and retain local businesses through direct engagement and partnership 

• Recruit high-quality commercial, industrial, and manufacturing investment 

• Increase in sales tax revenue through targeted economic growth 

• Align development with infrastructure and workforce needs 

• Ensure new growth contributes positively to county finances 

• Reduce long-term dependence on residential property taxes 

Economic development, when executed responsibly, becomes a taxpayer protection strategy. Growth should pay for itself and create measurable value for residents—not to increase the burden on homeowners.

Weber County’s rapid growth presents both opportunity and risk. Without disciplined planning, growth can strain infrastructure, increase housing costs, and erode community character.

James Ebert supports a proactive planning model that balances growth with infrastructure capacity, transportation needs, and long-term fiscal sustainability.

Strategic Planning Priorities

• Encourage a balanced mix of housing options 

• Support workforce and attainable housing solutions 

• Preserve neighborhood identity and community character 

• Coordinate development with roads, utilities, and public services 

• Use long-range planning to reduce infrastructure costs 

A key component of this strategy is the use of Small Area Plans—community-driven planning tools that bring residents, businesses, and local leaders together to guide development decisions.

This process creates transparency, predictability, and accountability while ensuring growth reflects community priorities rather than short-term political pressure.

Local government functions best when leaders focus on solving problems rather than creating division.

James Ebert believes Weber County residents are tired of political conflict and want leadership grounded in professionalism, respect, and accountability. His approach is centered on collaboration, transparency, and measurable outcomes.

Leadership Commitments

• Foster respectful and productive dialogue 

• Work collaboratively across jurisdictions and perspectives 

• Base decisions on data, experience, and long-term impact 

• Focus on practical solutions over political rhetoric 

• Maintain transparency and accountability in decision-making 

Leadership is not measured by headlines or political theater. It is measured by the ability to bring people together, make informed decisions, and deliver results for the community.

Public safety remains one of the most important responsibilities of local government. After serving 23 years in law enforcement, James Ebert has firsthand experience addressing community safety challenges and working directly with families throughout Weber County.

That experience shaped his understanding of leadership, accountability, crisis management, and community trust. It also provided practical insight into how government decisions impact residents on a daily basis.

Combined with his experience as a county commissioner, nonprofit executive director, and economic development consultant, Ebert brings a comprehensive understanding of the interconnected issues facing Weber County today.

Professional Experience

• 23 years in law enforcement 

• 4 years as Weber County Commissioner 

• 3 years as an economic development consultant for Morgan County 

• 7 years as Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Weber-Davis 

This combination of executive leadership and public service provides the experience necessary to manage growth responsibly, strengthen communities, and protect taxpayer interests.

The future success of Weber County depends on strong collaboration between county government, cities, businesses, and community organizations.

James Ebert believes effective governance requires consistent communication, transparency, and follow-through. County government should serve as a trusted partner and resource—not an obstacle.

Strategic Actions

• Improve coordination between Weber County and local cities 

• Establish regular communication with municipal leadership 

• Address planning and infrastructure issues proactively 

• Build trust through consistency and accountability 

• Encourage regional collaboration on economic development and growth 

Strong partnerships lead to better planning, more efficient government, and stronger outcomes for residents.