Jim Lee, Portsmouth City Council Candidate

PORTSMOUTH, NH — Jim Lee

Position Sought

Portsmouth City Council

Family

Ann Cummings, My wife and real estate partner

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Education and-or work experience

Attended the University of Tennessee and Memphis State University

Previous or current elected or appointed positions

Portsmouth Zoning Board of Adjustment (6 years), President, New Hampshire Association of REALTORS

Campaign website

Jim for Portsmouth

The single most important pressing issue facing the community is _______ and this is what I intend to do about it

Taxes, which go hand in hand with spending. Examine the current budget line by line with a magnifying glass and see what is necessary and what is not.

List three other things you would like to work on if elected or re-elected

1. Control spending
2. Tackle sky-high property taxes
3. Put residents first

Name a couple of accomplishments in the past that show you can handle this position

40+ years as a real estate broker negotiating for clients every day. Six years on the Portsmouth Zoning Board of Adjustment.

Share any other thoughts or ideas you would like voters to know about yourself

40+ Years as a Real Estate Broker

Proven expertise in property values, housing trends, and community development.
Skilled negotiator who advocates for clients daily — ready to advocate for Portsmouth residents.

U.S. Air Force Veteran

Dedicated to service, discipline, and putting mission and community first.

Former Small Business Owner

Built and ran a successful restaurant, understanding firsthand the challenges local businesses face.

City Service

Served six years on the Portsmouth Zoning Board of Adjustment, balancing growth with neighborhood character and fairness.

Member of the Mayor’s Blue Ribbon Task Force to Reopen Portsmouth (2021), helping guide the city’s safe and effective recovery during the pandemic.

Community Leadership

Active member of Portsmouth Elks Lodge, serving on the Veterans Committee to support those who served our nation.

Pro Portsmouth Volunteer

Certified in Diversity & Inclusion

At Home With Diversity® certification from the National Association of REALTORS®, demonstrating commitment to fair and inclusive policies.

Professional Recognition & Leadership

2021 President of the New Hampshire Association of REALTORS®. Honored as 2017 New Hampshire REALTOR® of the Year.