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James Wagner
Passionate about using data to empower better decisions and lower barriers to innovation in local government.
James Wagner serves as the Director of Finance and Chief Financial Officer for the City of Tulsa, Oklahoma. He has held this position since October 2020, after previously serving as the Chief of Performance, Strategy, and Innovation for the city. In his role, Wagner focuses on using data-driven strategies to enhance municipal operations and services, aligning with the priorities set by the mayor and city council.21
Background and Career
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Education: Wagner holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance (Magna Cum Laude) from Oklahoma State University, as well as Master's degrees in Civil Engineering and City & Regional Planning from the Georgia Institute of Technology. He is also a certified planner with the American Institute of Certified Planners.12
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Previous Roles: Before becoming CFO, he was instrumental in creating Tulsa's first performance management system and led initiatives like TulStat, aimed at improving city services through data analysis. He also worked as a Principal Planner at the Indian Nations Council of Governments (INCOG), where he was involved in public transportation planning.12
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Community Focus: Wagner is known for his commitment to community development. As part of his current responsibilities, he oversees various city departments that focus on housing, code enforcement, and animal welfare.13 He has expressed a desire to improve neighborhoods and enhance community engagement through innovative programs.1
Current Initiatives
Wagner's leadership has resulted in significant improvements in the city's financial health, including maintaining balanced budgets and increasing cash reserves. He is actively involved in initiatives that aim to foster community well-being and neighborhood revitalization within Tulsa.12
Personal Note
Wagner is a native of Tulsa and has been recognized for his contributions to local governance and community planning. His work reflects a blend of financial acumen and a passion for grassroots community engagement.12
