Meet the Mayor: Dyersburg Mayor John Holden
What led you to municipal leadership? Was there a person or experience that inspired you to run for mayor?
I moved back to Dyersburg in 1990, my hometown, when I was 30 years old. Got interested in local politics because of my friendship with Richard Hill who was Chairman of the Dyer County Budget Committee, ran for County Commissioner and was elected and served 10 years with him. Richard went on to be elected Dyer County Mayor. I then ran for Mayor of the City of Dyersburg in 2006, was elected and worked closely with Mayor Hill for many years; he was my mentor and a great County Mayor. I learned so many things from him and he is the sole reason I got involved in politics.
During your time as mayor, what accomplishment are you most proud of?
In my 20th year serving as Mayor, it’s hard to pick just one accomplishment, however I’m just really proud of the growth of our community, quality of life improvements and the team of city associates that work so hard every day in serving our citizens.
What part of your service as mayor energizes you the most?
The ability to help folks when they need it, solving problems when they arise and obtaining grants that improve our community. We have been fortunate to receive over $63 million dollars in grants since I have been in office and that’s due to the fact that we have a great team that manages our grants and makes sure our projects are done correctly, efficiently and timely.
What motivates you when things get challenging?
Keep my focus on the future, remain calm under pressure and remember that citizens of my community didn’t elect me to have an easy job, they elected me to help solve the hard parts.
What's one piece of leadership advice that's stuck with you?
Remain humble when things are going well and steady when facing challenges.
What do you love most about your town or city?
The people who call our community home, the pride people take in our hometown and seeing our citizens come together when someone needs a helping hand.
What book, movie, or TV show are you enjoying right now?
Watching TV for me consists of news and sports.
What's something you're passionate about outside of work?
Hunting, pickleball and volunteering for community events
Do you have any hobbies that might surprise people?
Tending to my many flower beds and plants
What's your go-to comfort food?
Chicken wings of course!
Are you a morning person or a night owl?
Night owl
*Responses may have been lightly edited for clarity.