Turner is the ‘terrible optimist’ that wants Dumfries on the map

DUMFRIES — Jim Turner believes in the First Town Center.

“Maybe it’s because I’m a terrible optimist,” said Turner.

That’s the long-talked-about development that would be built along Main Street in Dumfries, as the town’s first mixed-use development with retail shops at street level and residences above. It’s the kind of development the town needs to attract more business. The project is coming along, albeit slowly. 

But it’s projects like these that are the key reason why Turner is running for Dummies Town Council on May 1.

He’s one of six candidates seeking three open council seats. The 20-year Army veteran’s mission: Make the town more of an area known as a passthrough commuter town for drivers on Route 1 and Interstate 95 and make it more of a place people want to drive to.

“A lot of people don’t even know where Dumfries is,” said Turner.

He retired from the Army in 2002, when he was working at Quantico. Since then, he’s remained in the area and lived in Dumfries with his wife and 19-year-old son. He has two older children who no longer live in the town.

Turner said he was approached by sitting councilwoman Brenda Via who encouraged him to run for the seat. He also praised Cliff Brewer, whose running to replace Jerry Foreman as mayor.

“Brewer is a very determined leader. If he sees an opportunity, he’s going to go for it,” said Turner.

Since retiring from the military, Turner has worked as an IT project manager. It’s that experience, coupled with his military service, is what makes him think he’s ready to serve in public office.

“I’m more of a planner,” said Turner. “If I see a problem that needs to be addressed, I can break it down into steps and then begin working on it.”