Former mayor, colleague reflects on the life of former Dothan commissioner
DOTHAN, Ala. (WDHN) — James Reading, who served two terms as Dothan city commissioner, passed away at 85 years old.
Former mayor Mike Schmitz, who worked with him for 4 years when he was elected, was saddened after getting the phone call.
“He’s a good man it breaks my heart that he passed he had a great life very high variety he’s been all over the world and served in the Air Force,” Schmitz said.
He served as a District 1 commissioner from 2001-2005 and then another term from 2009-2013 before being edged out by current commissioner Kevin Dorsey.
“He was an interesting character, very committed to his district, he believed in creating jobs and infrastructure for his district he worked hard,” He said.
Schmitz said during their time serving, there were water issues and he was the driving force for updating that infrastructure.
“We started replacing all the water pipes and we had to get some money to do it but the safety of our citizens was a priority,” He said.
Schmitz said his friend Reading was a funny guy but he would speak his mind when it comes to issues.
However, not only was he dedicated to serving the Dothan community.
“He loved to grow flowers so I went to his house one day he had all these roses and he was dedicated to his garden he was an impressive man and I will miss him.”
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