The Highland Council has paid tribute to former Provost of Inverness, William John “Bill” Smith, who passed away on Sunday, 9 March 2025.
Bill served as Provost from 1999 to 2007, a time of significant growth and change for the city.
Highland Council Convener Bill Lobban expressed his condolences, saying:
“It is with great sadness that we hear of Bill’s passing.
“On behalf of fellow Councillors and staff of The Highland Council, I extend our deepest sympathies to his family and friends.
“We remember his dedication and service with great fondness.”
Provost of Inverness and Area, Glynis Campbell Sinclair, described Bill as an exceptional leader and community figure.
“Elected as William J. Smith, he was more usually known as ‘Bill’ to those who worked with him and knew him well.
“Not only was Bill a well-known pillar of the community where he was sub-postmaster of Dalneigh Post Office, but he was also an exemplary Provost of Inverness.”
She highlighted his most significant achievement as Provost, overseeing Inverness being granted city status by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth in 2000.
“I would like to pass on my heartfelt condolences to his relatives and those in his community who knew him well,” she added.
Bill was instrumental in boosting the city’s potential, helping it flourish as a newly designated city.
He was also a driving force in strengthening Inverness’s international relationships, forging lasting connections with its twin towns of Augsburg in Germany and La Baule in France.
A true champion of his community, Bill was committed to improving life in his Ward, advocating for better housing and public services.
His work led to the establishment of the Jimmy Cameron Community Centre in Dalneigh, ensuring locals had access to vital resources and support.
First elected as an Independent Councillor for Inverness Canal Ward in 1995, he was re-elected in 1999 and again in 2003 without opposition.
Beyond his role as Provost, he chaired the Inverness Area Committee, the Cultural and Leisure Services Committee, and the Resources Committee.
He also contributed to the Corporate Services Committee, the Europe and Development Committee, the Roads and Transport Committee, the Social Work Committee, and the Land and Environment Committee.
His dedication extended to his work as a Justice of the Peace, demonstrating his deep commitment to public service and justice.
Bill was actively involved in committees focused on Renewing Democracy and Community Planning, Sustainable Development, Land and Environment, and Gaelic.
He also served on the Police Board, reinforcing his dedication to civic administration and community safety.
A proud Highlander, William John “Bill” Smith devoted his life to the progress and wellbeing of Inverness and its people.
His legacy of service, leadership, and dedication will be remembered for generations to come.
He is gone, but his impact will never be forgotten.
