Candidate for
State Senator; District 15

James Trout is a design/build consultant and a parent raising two sons in the Webster Groves School District. He has worked in historic redevelopment and also represents property owners in redevelopment areas facing eminent domain. Currently, James Trout is directing the first major "green" housing project in the Midwest, which includes 100% geothermal fueled heating and cooling and a 2/3 reduction in carbon footprint. This work has made him passionate about community building and skilled at finding solutions to challenging urban problems. From neighborhoods to private-public partnerships, James has built coalitions that make projects succeed. James has collaborated on strategic planning with non-profits, new businesses, and neighborhood organizations. He also grew a design/build company over a 20-year period and his projects have been published nationally.

James' dedication to community service and sound business practices has placed him in leadership positions in industry associations, non-profits, and community advocacy groups. In 2007 Jim won a Supreme Court case to restore reasonable campaign donation limits; and in 2006 Jim helped craft improvements to Missouri's first eminent domain law.

James is also an avid cyclist and hiker.