Cedric Glover Appointed Executive Director of Shreveport DDA

A vibrant scene showcasing community members participating in downtown Shreveport's activities under strong leadership.

News Summary

Former Shreveport mayor Cedric Glover has been appointed as the new executive director of the Downtown Development Authority (DDA). The board’s unanimous decision came after a comprehensive nine-month national search. Glover aims to rejuvenate downtown Shreveport by focusing on business retention, revitalization, and enhancing the area’s cultural scene. His wealth of experience in local politics positions him well to tackle challenges ahead. The DDA is optimistic about Glover’s leadership, anticipating community engagement and development in the near future.

Cedric Glover Takes the Helm as Executive Director of Shreveport’s Downtown Development Authority

Shreveport, get ready for some exciting changes as former mayor Cedric Glover has officially been appointed as the new executive director of the Downtown Development Authority (DDA). The big decision was made during a DDA meeting held on September 13, where board members voted unanimously to bring Glover into this pivotal role. With a rich background in local politics and community development, there’s a buzz in the air about what he might accomplish!

A Thorough Search for Leadership

The board’s decision followed a thorough nine-month national search that attracted a diverse pool of 20 candidates. While many were eager to step into this important position, Cedric Glover stood out among the contenders. Initially, the search resulted in 14 local applicants, showing the community’s interest in enhancing downtown Shreveport.

A Wealth of Experience

Cedric Glover’s resume speaks for itself. He served on the Shreveport City Council from 1990 to 1996 and continued to make his mark in Louisiana politics as a legislator until 2006. Most notably, he was the mayor of Shreveport from 2006 to 2014, where he developed a deep understanding of the city and its needs. This extensive background equips him perfectly to tackle the challenges that lie ahead for the DDA.

Looking Ahead

As Glover prepares to step into his new role, the DDA is waiting to finalize an employment contract with him. After this agreement is settled, they will be able to discuss his official start date. In the meantime, the board remains optimistic and is looking forward to Glover’s leadership to rejuvenate downtown Shreveport.

Community and Business Focus

Glover has shared his vision for downtown Shreveport, emphasizing the need for the area to remain vibrant and engaging. His focus will center on retaining and revitalizing existing businesses, ensuring that they thrive and contribute to the local economy. The downtown area is not just about commerce; it’s also about culture and creativity, and Glover sees potential growth in Shreveport’s film and entertainment industry. This presents a fantastic opportunity to elevate Shreveport’s profile and attract attention from outside the region.

Continuity and Transition

This is a significant moment for the DDA, especially since the executive director position has been vacant since January when former director Liz Swaine resigned. In her absence, Deputy Director Janie Landry has been providing interim leadership, guiding the DDA through this transitional phase while the search for a new leader unfolded.

Engaging with the Public

Mark your calendars for September 25! The DDA is hosting its next board meeting, where public comments will be welcomed. This is a great opportunity for members of the community to share their thoughts and contribute to shaping the vision for downtown Shreveport under Glover’s direction. With an engaged public and strong leadership, there’s a lot to look forward to in the revitalization of this essential part of the city.

Conclusion

With Cedric Glover stepping in as the executive director, there’s hope for a renewed sense of energy in downtown Shreveport. His past experiences as a public servant, combined with his commitment to fostering local businesses and culture, paint an exciting picture of what’s to come. Stay tuned, Shreveport, because this downtown development effort promises a bright future for us all!