Lester Smith, First Vice President of the Shreveport Branch NAACP, has officially announced his candidacy for Shreveport City Council, District F. A lifelong resident of the district, Smith is a respected businessman, entrepreneur, and community activist, as well as the founder and former president of the Mooretown Neighborhood Association.
Smith’s decision to run stems from his deep concern that for far too long, District F — which includes Mooretown, Sunset Acres, Ingleside, Lynnbrook, Valley View, The Meadows, and the west side of Cedar Grove — has been “neglected, ignored, and left out of the city’s economic growth and development.” He says decades of disinvestment have turned once vibrant neighborhoods into areas struggling with high crime, blight, poor infrastructure, and limited opportunity.
“When I am elected as your next City Councilman for District F,” Smith stated, “I intend to foster an environment of inclusion that builds a true three-way partnership between my fellow council members, the Mayor’s office, and, most importantly, the citizens of District F.”
Smith says his top priority will be reducing crime, starting with increasing safe and productive alternatives for youth through expanded after-school programs. Beyond public safety, he plans to work closely with city department heads to combat neighborhood blight and promote new growth.
A cornerstone of Smith’s platform also includes immediate advocacy for the replacement of the city’s aging, 100-year-old water infrastructure to ensure residents have clean, safe drinking water. He is also committed to improving streets, revitalizing public spaces, and partnering with small businesses to bring jobs and opportunity back to District F.
“District F deserves a seat at the table of progress,” Smith said. “Together, we can rebuild our neighborhoods, restore pride in our community, and create equal access to opportunity for every resident.”
For more information or to contact Lester D. Smith, please email LesterDSmith1950@gmail.com or call 318-422-3850.
John came to Shreveport in January of 1977 when he was transferred to Barksdale AFB.
He’s been active in Shreveport politics since deciding to make Shreveport his home.
John practiced law for 40 years and he now monitors local politics. He regularly attends Shreveport City Council and Caddo Parish Commission meetings.
John is published weekly in The Inquisitor, bi-monthly in The Forum News, and frequently in the Shreveport Times.
He enjoys addressing civic groups on local government issues and elections.