Settled in 1778 along the Great Wagon Trail, the Town of Narrows, Virginia has seen many changes during its 200 years of history. The town has seen boom during the industrial rush following the construction of the Norfolk and Western Railway in 1885, but has also seen a downturn in traffic as Route 460 was constructed around the town, removing travelers from the downtown district.

James "Buddy" Kast continues to develop and build the history of the Town of Narrows in his role as Assistant Town Manager. He began his career in the public sector as a part-time meter reader for the Town of Pearisburg fifteen years ago, and has been with the Town of Narrows for four years and became Assistant Town Manager three years ago. Buddy continues a long tradition in Narrows of protecting the public interest that began in 1948 with the first Town Manager. He takes great pride in improving the quality of life in Narrows and providing residents with reliable public services.

On any given day, Buddy may join a meeting concerning water system improvements, field questions about zoning, address the Town budget, and confirm Town staff scheduling. Anderson & Associates Project Manager Stevie Steele said, "Regardless, he brings 200 percent to the job every day and provides his full attention at the drop of a dime."

Most recently, he has been working with Anderson & Associates to rehabilitate three water storage tanks that will improve the water quality and pressure throughout the Town. Additionally, he has implemented improvements that have significantly reduced water loss throughout the Town’s water system. Over the past 30 years, Anderson & Associates has worked continuously with the Town on improving and expanding its infrastructure, as well as other projects, such as the streetscape improvements and revitalization of the downtown.

Stevie has worked closely with Buddy for four years. Stevie said, "By remaining involved and aware, by keeping our fingers on the pulse of the town budget and strategic planning, we build a better partnership. Buddy’s hard work and dedication have resulted in a 20,000 gallon tank doing the work of a half million gallon tank."

Buddy’s vision for the future of Narrows embodies a downtown once again bustling with activity and a residential community providing a quality of life that emulates the spirit and beauty of this rural, mountainous hometown.