Stacey Tinsley, Bossier Press-Tribune
Emotions ran high during Tuesday’s regular Bossier City Council meeting as the city bid farewell to four longtime public servants. Councilmen David Montgomery (At-Large), Jeffery Darby (District 2), Don Williams (District 3), and Jeff Free (District 4) marked their final day in office, closing a significant chapter of service to the people of Bossier City.
The mood in the council chamber was both celebratory and reflective—recognizing the decades of combined experience and leadership stepping away from the dais.
Councilmen Chris Smith (At-Large) and Brian Hammons (District 1) took the podium at the start of the meeting to offer heartfelt tributes to their departing colleagues.
“We wanted to take a moment to honor you, your legacy, and your commitment to serving Bossier City,” Smith said. “You look at this back wall of all the people that have served as a Bossier City councilmember and it’s a small group. This is something we’ll always share—that we were able to serve this term together.”
Smith went on to highlight the tangible accomplishments the outgoing councilmen helped bring to life—roads, bridges, and community landmarks like Tinsley Park and the Brookshire Grocery Arena. But he emphasized that the real impact was found in their mentorship.
“The greatest accomplishment may not be one you can see,” Smith added. “It’s what you poured into me, into Councilman Hammons, and into Councilman Maggio. You helped shape our leadership.”
Councilman Hammons echoed those sentiments.
“We disagreed on a lot over the past four years, but we agreed on a lot too,” he said. “At the end of the day, we could all call each other friends. The hours you gentlemen have poured into this city and into its citizens—thank you. We’ve learned a tremendous amount.”
The departing council members leave behind a legacy of major civic improvements and infrastructure investment, but also one of bipartisanship, mentorship, and mutual respect.
David Montgomery, a pillar of Bossier politics for over two decades, Jeffery Darby, a strong voice for District 2, Don Williams, a steady hand representing District 3, and Jeff Free, a passionate advocate for District 4, were all honored by their peers and constituents.
As the meeting continued, there was a lingering sense of gratitude—for years of service, for a job well done, and for the relationships that defined their time on the council.