Mayor Tom Arceneaux announced the passing of longtime Shreveport public servant Jim Holt, remembering him in a city news release as a dedicated public servant.
Holt served for many years as Assistant Director of Public Works and later as Director of Property Standards under Mayor Cedric Glover. According to the news release, throughout his career with the City, he became known not only for his experience and knowledge, but for his ability to work directly with residents and find practical solutions to the problems they faced.
"Jim devoted many years of his life to serving the people of Shreveport, and his loss will be deeply felt by those who had the privilege of working with him," Arceneaux said. "He understood that public service is ultimately about people. We are grateful for everything he gave to this city, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and former colleagues during this difficult time."
Chief Administrative Officer Tom Dark, who worked alongside Holt for many years, called him an "especially effective advocate" for Shreveport residents.
"Jim was the most effective person I have ever worked with when it came to dealing with the problems of individual citizens," Dark said. "He listened to their concerns, found effective solutions to their problems and followed up to make sure their needs were met. That kind of commitment to people is what public service should be, and Jim lived it every day."
The City of Shreveport extended its deepest condolences to the Holt family and joined the many current and former City employees who are remembered his years of service and the impact he made on the community.
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This article originally appeared on Shreveport Times: Veteran Shreveport employee Jim Holt dies; mayor issues statement