On April 25th, I turned 60 years young. Surrounded by family and friends, I was grateful for the opportunity to announce my candidacy for Mayor of Denham Springs. As I begin this next chapter, I can’t think of a better way to spend this season of my life than continuing to serve the people of this city I love.

I’m running for mayor because Denham Springs is at a critical point. We’ve grown, we’ve faced challenges, and we’ve proven, especially in times like the 2016 flood that our strength comes from our people. Now, we need leadership that will build on that strength and guide our city forward with purpose, planning, and accountability.

My 39-year career in the petrochemical industry has prepared me to do exactly that. I’ve managed budgets, led teams, and implemented systems that improve efficiency and operational integrity. I understand how to bring structure, discipline, and problem-solving to complex challenges skills that are essential for leading a growing city.

My commitment to service didn’t start in government. For over 30 years, I’ve served this community as a firefighter, station captain, training officer, and commissioner with Livingston Parish Fire Protection District 5, as well as through church, youth, and civic involvement. Serving others isn’t just something I do, it’s who I am.

Today, as your Denham Springs City Councilman, I’ve worked hard to be accessible and responsive. When you call, I show up. I’ve built strong working relationships across city, parish, state, and federal leadership, and I’ve been actively involved in finding real solutions, not just talking about them.

As mayor, my focus will be clear:

• Strengthening infrastructure and planning for smart growth
• Supporting public safety and first responders
• Creating a business-friendly environment that encourages local investment
• Preserving the small-town character that makes Denham Springs special

We are a city with heart, resilience, and opportunity. I believe our best days are ahead, but only if we lead with vision, accountability, and a commitment to working together.

Over the coming months, I’ll be sharing more about my plans and listening to your ideas. I’d be honored to earn your support, your trust, and your vote.

Let’s build the future of Denham Springs together.

Melanie David | The News

DENHAM SPRINGS, La. — Two candidates announced their campaigns for mayor of Denham Springs on the same day this week, ahead of this fall’s municipal election.

John Cavalier, co-owner of Cavalier House Books, and Denham Springs City Councilman Jim Gilbert both announced their candidacies on Saturday, April 25.

Cavalier, a 2002 graduate of Denham Springs High School, holds a degree in political science from Southeastern Louisiana University. He and his wife, Michelle, opened Cavalier House Books in the city’s Antique Village in 2009 and launched the Looziana Book Company, a wholesale and distribution business for local and regional titles, in 2018. He currently serves on the Denham Springs Planning and Zoning Commission and the Denham Springs Historic Commission and volunteered with Denham Strong following the August 2016 flood.

Gilbert, a longtime Denham Springs resident and a graduate of Denham Springs High School, was elected to the City Council in 2022. He worked in the petrochemical industry for more than three decades, primarily with ExxonMobil, where he served as an electrical subject-matter expert. He previously served as a firefighter with Livingston Parish Fire Protection District No. 5 and as chairman of the district’s Board of Commissioners.

The mayor’s seat is currently held by Gerard Landry. The position is full-time, carries a four-year term, and oversees approximately 180 city employees and a consolidated budget of more than $20 million.

Formal candidate qualifying will take place July 29 through 31. Early voting runs October 20 through 27, with Election Day on November 3.

LPN will publish individual candidate profiles as the race progresses.

Source: The Livingston Parish News