Staff Report
BUDA -- The Buda City Council named Jim Hollis, former mayor and retired President of the Emergency Service District Board #2, as the city's first 'Local Legend' in honor of his long history of service to the community.
The award will be presented at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 2, during the inaugural founder’s day celebration, Buda’s Birthday, at the Buda Amphitheater and City Park. The Local Legend Award is a new honor the city will bestow annually for Buda’s Birthday Celebration.
Hollis moved to Buda over 42 years ago at a time when the town had a population of less than 500 residents. He served on the Buda City Council from 1990 to 1991 and as the city’s mayor from 1991 to 1992. During his tenure, Hollis was instrumental in the construction of the first library and former city hall. After serving as Emergency Services District (ESD) Board #2 president for more than 20 years, Hollis recently retired and is now serving as the vice president for Board #8. ESDs provide valuable emergency services, such as fire and emergency medical services (EMS) to residents of a political subdivision.
Hollis has also been an active member of the Buda Masonic Lodge, Shriners International and the Legion of Honor, a veteran’s group that led to his appointment as the chief of staff to the international commander, which provided an opportunity for him to lay the ceremonial wreath at the Tomb of the Fallen Soldier in 2020.
Being such an active, generous member of the Buda community has given Hollis intimate insight into the history and culture of the area. He does not hesitate in sharing his knowledge. The octogenarian remains active on his small ranch in Buda.
When asked what he would like people to remember about him and his legacy, Hollis said, “Jim Hollis is Jim Hollis. What you see is what you get. You may not always like what he says or does, but he does everything with the community’s and taxpayer’s best interest at heart.”
To learn more about Hollis and the other Local Legend nominees or about Buda’s Birthday Celebration, please visit budasbirthday.com.
