Tribute paid to former Provost of Inverness

The Highland Council is deeply saddened to announce that former Provost of Inverness, William John “Bill” Smith, passed away on Sunday, 9 March 2025.

Bill served as Provost from 1999 to 2007, a period during which Inverness experienced significant development.

Highland Council Convener Bill Lobban expressed his condolences, stating: "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 as a Highland Councillor and Provost with great fondness."

Provost of Inverness and Area, Glynis Campbell Sinclair, remarked: "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, serving the city and area from 1999 to 2007 in that role. In his role as Provost, he had the privilege and honour of overseeing the bestowing of city status upon Inverness by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth. I would like to pass on my heartfelt condolences to his relatives and those in his community who knew him well."

Bill was instrumental in Inverness attaining city status in 2000, greatly boosting the city's prospects for expansion. He also strengthened Inverness's ties with its twin towns of Augsburg in Germany and La Baule in France, promoting cultural and economic relations.

At the local level, Bill was an active community worker who championed the development of his Ward. He played a key role in establishing the Jimmy Cameron Community Centre in Dalneigh, ensuring residents had access to valuable resources and programs. He also advocated for the renovation of homes in Dalneigh and the broader Canal Ward.

An Independent Councillor for Inverness Canal Ward from 1995, Bill was re-elected in 1999 and again in 2003 without opposition. His leadership extended beyond the role of Provost; he also chaired the Inverness Area Committee, the Cultural and Leisure Services Committee, and the Resources Committee. Additionally, he served on various committees, including the Corporate Services Committee, Europe and Development Committee, Roads and Transport Committee, Social Work Committee, and the Land and Environment Committee.

In addition to his civic responsibilities, Bill served as a Justice of the Peace, demonstrating his commitment to public administration and justice. He was also an active member of select committees on Renewing Democracy and Community Planning, Sustainable Development, Land and Environment, and Gaelic, and he served on the Police Board.

A dedicated Highlander, William John “Bill” Smith was a man who devoted his time, energy, and passion to the advancement of Inverness and its people. His efforts will always be appreciated. He is gone but will never be forgotten.