Achievements
Jake received a Bronze Star for leading his Task Group in completing over 450 offensive intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions providing support to ground forces in a war zone. He was also awarded a Navy Commendation Medal with Valor for heroic action and an Air Medal for multiple highly effective combat missions in Iraq.
For his service to the Office of the President of the United States, Jake received the Defense Superior Service Medal.
Jake received the Legion of Merit for his work establishing a wind farm in the vicinity of Naval Facilities, balancing environmental concerns with national security.
In 2015 Jake was highlighted in Inside Leadership Magazine for his collaborative leadership style in Norfolk, Virginia.
In 2017 Volusia League of Cities awarded Jake the Distinguished Service Award as the Executive of the Year in his second year as City Manager of Port Orange.
Municipal Achievments
As the previous City Manager for Port Orange, here are some of the things Jake is proud of:
In 2017 Volusia League of Cities awarded Jake the Distinguished Service Award as the Executive of the Year in his second year as City Manager of Port Orange.
Fully funded Police and Fire Departments for operational needs, never defunding public safety.
Spearheaded a project to remove septic tanks from the city minimizing the impact to residents with grants and long term payback.
Ensured Port Orange transferred treated wastewater to reclaimed lakes for follow on filtration before being sent to residential and commercial irrigation, instead of pumping it into the Halifax River. Introduced Solar Bees to ensure reclaimed lake water is filtered to decrease algae blooms and increase biologically treated waters in case it is required to pump into the wetlands. This provides clean water to percolate back into the aquifer. https://youtu.be/pjHxMEnNh2o
Worked with environmental groups to rebuild portions of the Port Orange shoreline to decrease erosion, increase filtering of runoff, and remove non- native Brazilian Pepper trees from the city.
Ensured River District development provided full public access to the shoreline and water habitat for citizen enjoyment.
Empowered the city environmental committee to provide recommended updates to the city tree ordinance, ensuring protection of historic trees.
Awarded Executive of the Year during the 2017 Volusia League of Cities Annual Distinguished Service Awards Banquet.
Engaged directly with the citizens of Port Orange through small "coffee talk" sessions.
