The late David Swan, a longtime Hollywood Park resident who guided the town’s deer committee and was a City Council member, will be honored at Memorial Park.

What happened

Hollywood Park City Council unanimously voted Sept. 19 to accept a citizens petition and nomination for a plaque to be dedicated to Swan’s memory at the park.

Former Council Member Debbie Trueman led the petition effort, gathering 182 residents’ signatures in support of Swan, who died July 5 at age 76.

The efforts of Trueman and fellow residents to formally honor Swan followed council’s recent decision to dial back Memorial Park honorary requirements, including reducing the number of needed signatures. The park has one plaque honoring late Mayor Bill Bohlke.

The background

Swan had lived in Hollywood Park since 1978, and according to town officials and other residents, he immersed himself in community activities.

Unable to attend the Sept. 19 council meeting, Trueman wrote to the city, calling Swan a Hollywood Park historian and an advocate for humane, adequate management of the local deer herd. Trueman wrote Swan was instrumental in helping to overturn a ban on deer feeding and supporting a count of the deer herd.

Swan also served on council from 2010-12 and spent decades owning and running small local businesses, including the Tool Shed, a small engine repair shop, according to city officials and other residents.

What they’re saying

“He helped with so many issues—the deer committee was one, City Council and just being there to listen to people, support them and give them guidance,” resident Tonya Cummings told council.

Mayor Sean Moore said Swan inspired many community members.

“David was a fountain of information and was very helpful,” Moore said.

David’s widow, Nancy Swan, addressed council, expressing appreciation to city leaders and residents who nominated her late husband.

“Thank you to all the ones who voted for him,” she said.