Elgin Davis is announcing his candidacy for reelection to the Livingston City Council in the Nov. 4 election.
A 1963 graduate of Dunbar High School, Davis has spent a lifetime building relationships and investing in the betterment of his hometown. His candidacy is grounded in a simple but powerful message – service through courage, leadership and love for community.
Davis is a highly decorated U.S. Army veteran, having served his country with distinction in combat. He was awarded the Silver Star, the nation’s third-highest personal decoration for valor in combat, as well as the Purple Heart with three oak leaf clusters, indicating he was wounded in action on multiple occasions. He also received a Commendation Medal for outstanding service and dedication.
He served 16 years on the Livingston ISD Board of Trustees, where he advocated for quality education, responsible school budgeting, and strong leadership in classrooms.
Beyond the boardroom, he took a hands-on approach by mentoring and coaching in a variety of youth programs, including Little Dribblers, Youth Baseball Leagues, American Legion Baseball, and volunteering with the Polk County 4-H Club.
Davis also brings direct experience in public operations and intergovernmental affairs. He served as the Polk County Maintenance Supervisor where he managed infrastructure operations and worked with multiple departments to keep public facilities running efficiently.
He also served on the Deep East Texas Council of Governments, eventually becoming Second Vice President. Through DETCOG, Davis worked collaboratively with leaders across counties to address regional concerns such as emergency preparedness, housing, rural development, and senior citizen services.
He was nominated for the Texas Humanitarian Award, a testament to his enduring commitment to public service and advocacy for underrepresented communities.
One of Davis’s proudest accomplishments was his role as President of the Committee to Save Dunbar, where he led efforts to preserve the historic Dunbar High School building.
Under his leadership, the committee successfully obtained a grant to renovate and restore the building, turning it into a symbol of cultural heritage and community pride.
Davis said he is running to represent all of Livingston. His platform focuses on public safety, youth investment, infrastructure and services, transparency and accountability, and economic growth.
“I’ve worn many hats in my life – soldier, coach, mentor, public servant – but the most important role I’ll ever have is neighbor. I care deeply about this community. I know its strengths, its needs and its potential. If the people of Livingston will have me, I will serve with the same courage, dedication, and honesty that have shaped my life.”
