Mike James was first elected Mayor in 2013 and reelected in 2017. In 2021, he was appointed to serve a term ending in May 2023. Following that, he ran for Mayor and was elected to complete the remaining two years of a four-year term, which concluded in May 2025.

In April 2025, no candidates filed for the mayoral election. As a result, Maureen Roach, President Pro Tem, temporarily filled the position until a candidate came forward.

After a comprehensive interview process, Mayor James was reappointed in 2025 to a two-year term set to expire in May 2027.

Prior to his mayoral service, Mike James was elected as a Village Trustee in 2009 and served a four-year term.

Mike graduated from Concord-Triopia High School and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and Computer Science from Illinois College.

He grew up in Arenzville, a small town southwest of Springfield. This small-town upbringing influenced his and his wife’s decision to settle in Downs.

Mike is married to Julie James, who has served as Village Clerk since her election in April 2013. She was reelected in 2017, appointed in 2021, and elected again in 2023.

Together, Mike and Julie have three children who graduated from Tri-Valley High School.

Professionally, Mike works for SAS, the largest privately-held software company in the United States. He also owns and operates MAJik Storage Solutions, a garage and home organization business.