Jonathan Bates is running for the Caroline Town Board on the Democratic Ticket. on November 5th, 2024 Read his biography below. Our family moved to Caroline in 2017, and I lived and worked at Shelterbelt Farm until 2021 when we started building our new house on Slaterville Road. I served as General Contractor for construction through the spring 2022. Today we enjoy our evolving farm, residing in a comfortable, passive house. It is an energy efficient dwelling reducing the carbon footprint with ultra-low energy costs. As we are becoming more interwoven into the fabric of the Town of Caroline, I sense this as an opportunity to expand community connections and strengthen my local roots. I look forward to learning more about the local governing process and know I will make important contributions while continuing to serve on the Agriculture Committee, advising on energy, sustainability and conservation. Budgets and money management skills come from my 15 years running a profitable business and am willing to share my knowledge as a small business owner. I’d also like to be an advocate for youth programs and services, as I am a dad of a 11-year-old spending many wonderful years at Caroline School, and BCC Summer Camp. I’ve volunteered on many non-profit boards, developing good leadership and facilitation skills, including roles as treasurer and board president. My business, Food Forest Farm, has had many profitable and successful years over almost two decades. I see this as an asset when communicating with the public particularly as new economic opportunities arrive. I make a conscious effort to listen and communicate well, especially during my roles in leadership positions, and as a youth and adult educator. My day-to-day life revolves around being a land steward and farmer, homeowner, business owner, husband and Dad. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to speaking with you. .