The Peru Gazette

Jim at his last town board meeting on December 29 enjoying a laugh with Counselor Eric Duquette

Attending Peru’s annual Christmas tree lighting has always been one of Jim’s favorite activities.

Many friends and family members witnessed Jim light the tree on December 5, 2025.

Jim lighting Peru’s beautiful tree

By John T Ryan 

Peru, NY, January 31, 2026 –  Family and public service define Jim Douglass.   After 16 years on the Peru Town Board, including 12 years as Deputy Supervisor, Jim did not seek reelection last November. He explained why, saying, “We have a good board. I’m glad there’s new blood on the board.” Nevertheless, Jim hasn’t forgotten the board members and town employees. He added, “I miss them very much, and I stop by to say hello.” 

Public service has characterized Jim Dougalss’s life for 44 of his 86 years. Prior to moving to Peru about 25 years ago, he lived in Black Brook, where he served as tax assessor for 8 years and on the town board for 20 years. Significantly, he passed his love of public service on to his son, Jon, who also served on the Black Brook Town Board and is currently the Black Brook Town Supervisor.

A Democrat, it didn’t take Jim long to get involved in Peru politics. He recalled, “I ran for assessor. I lost, but I got to know Brandy McDonald, who was in politics. He asked me to run for the town board. In those days, it was difficult for a Democrat to get elected in Peru, so we ran as Democrats and on a 3rd party line. Persistence paid off. In 2009, Peru voters elected Douglass to the Peru Town Board.   

At a time when most people shy away from being involved in local government, Douglass loves it.  He explained, “It’s never been about politics. For me, it’s about the town, not the parties. Our board can disagree on some things, argue out points and still leave as friends.” 

Looking back on his time on the town board, Douglass considers the walking trail as one of the town’s biggest achievements. He said, “I have to credit much of that to Adele Douglas, who did so much. Some people told me the trail was a waste of time and that nobody would use it. I felt it would be a good thing for Peru, so I voted for it.” Adele Douglas, a volunteer, applied for the grants that funded 75% of the trail. 

Douglass has an immense respect for the town board members and the respect is mutual.  

Town Supervisor Craig Randall commented, “I’ve enjoyed working with Jim. His years of service as a councilman were valuable to me. We could always count on Jim to share his knowledge of town business. I know his caring manner spread throughout our community, to his neighbors and friends. I thank Jim and wish him the very best in the years ahead.”

Melvin Irwin said, “Jim, due to his many years of service, numerous older adults looked to him to solve numerous issues. Jim’s favorite quote was, “The graveyard is full of people who thought they couldn’t be replaced!! He was always caring about his people.”

Kregg Bruno said, “Jim was a mentor to me when I began as a councilor. He was very helpful and experienced, which was a significant benefit in aiding me to become a better counselor. We became very close friends, and I still refer to him if I have questions about certain aspects of my job. We also both like to eat pie and enjoy each other’s company.”

Eric Duquette is a relatively new board member whose previous experience has been in business, not local government. Eric said, “Jim  enlighted me and helped me. He is a very community-based person. He does not see party lines, which is wonderful for a town government. He wants what’s best for the community, including the best use of taxpayers’ dollars. He’s a peacemaker. He tries his best to keep everything moving smoothly.” 

Are there any higher words of praise?  “We can always count on Jim to share his knowledge…” “He was always caring about people.” “He was a mentor to me.” “He’s a peacemaker.” Jim Douglass, with his wife Jackie at his side, will undoubtedly find new ways to serve our community.