James M. “Jim” Holland, who served as the Dale District representative on the Chesterfield Board of Supervisors for more than 17 years, died on October 14 at age 73 after a battle with cancer. Holland began his tenure in January 2008 during the onset of the Great Recession, a period marked by economic turmoil and significant challenges for local governments across the United States.
Chesterfield County, which had become a residential hub for the Richmond region since the mid-1970s, was heavily dependent on property taxes to fund government services. The collapse of the housing market forced county leaders to reduce their budget by $50 million over two years as revenues fell.
Holland’s background in business and accounting helped him guide Chesterfield through these difficulties. He held an MBA and was a certified public accountant (CPA), having worked at Philip Morris USA before starting his own firm and teaching at Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Business.
Former county Budget and Management Department director Allan Carmody said, “One thing stood out: he just always had a very calm demeanor. The profession he was in, certainly, I think you’ve got to have some calmness in it. You’ve got to be able to take in a lot of different information, process it and then make the best possible decision. You can apply that to any topic, whether it’s a mathematical, numerical kind of thing or whether it’s a program and service decision that has implications on the wellbeing of the citizens.”
During his five terms as supervisor—including three as board chair—Holland was recognized for steady leadership during crises such as the recession and later during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dr. Makola M. Abdullah, president of Virginia State University, said: “Mr. Holland’s life was a shining example of service, integrity, and compassion. For nearly two decades, he dedicated himself to improving the quality of life for the citizens of Chesterfield County and the commonwealth of Virginia. His unwavering commitment to his community left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of working alongside him.” Abdullah also noted Holland’s support for VSU: “We were especially fortunate to count Mr. Holland as a steadfast supporter and friend. His advocacy strengthened the bond between VSU and Chesterfield County—a partnership that continues to benefit generations of students and residents. We will remember him as a true gentleman and a champion of progress who led with both wisdom and heart.”
Holland focused on making Chesterfield—and particularly Dale District—a better place by meeting regularly with constituents so they could participate in decisions affecting their lives.
The county saw substantial economic growth during his time in office by attracting companies like Amazon, LEGO, Niagara Bottling, Sabra Dipping Company, Google, and Commonwealth Fusion Systems. These efforts resulted in nearly 18,800 new jobs from almost 200 economic development projects totaling $15 billion in investment.
Garrett Hart, director of Chesterfield Economic Development stated: “Mr. Holland understood the economic development mission—to increase commercial investment and create quality jobs in our community—and therefore was a strong supporter of our team,” adding that Holland celebrated successes throughout his district.
Holland also advocated strongly for public education; nearly $1 billion went toward school construction under his watch—including new buildings for Beulah Elementary School and Falling Creek Middle School—with plans approved for further expansion.
Dr. Merv Daugherty, former superintendent for Chesterfield County Public Schools said: “He wanted everyone to get a fair shake… That’s why he was so passionate about education—he knew that’s the one thing that can move you from one place to another and help you be successful.”
In May this year Chesterfield honored Holland by naming Beulah Recreation Complex after him; he had pushed for its renovation into both a recreation center—with amenities like cricket fields—and park space.
Other ongoing projects include parks improvements (Cogbill Park), infrastructure upgrades (Nash Road Extension), recreational facilities (The Diamonds at Iron Bridge), animal services building construction, airport runway expansion plans aimed at supporting future business growth within Dale District.
Long-term planning also took shape under Holland’s guidance with approval for development plans along key transportation corridors such as Route 10/Chippenham Parkway area—meant to direct growth strategically across northern parts of Chesterfield County.
County administrator Dr. Joe Casey described how Holland viewed assets not just financially but as ways “to make life better” while considering all people when making decisions about community resources.
Beyond local governance duties he represented Chesterfield regionally through roles with organizations including Richmond Region Tourism Board; Capitol Region Airport Commission; Greater Richmond Partnership; PlanRVA; Capital Region Workforce Partnership—helping foster regional cooperation credited with boosting Richmond’s profile statewide since 2008.
Jack Berry—the retired CEO/president from Richmond Region Tourism—noted dramatic improvement over recent decades attributing much progress directly back to collaboration driven by leaders like Holland: “What has been transformed from 2008 to 2025 is we are now the epicenter… Jim was at table for all it… His secret sauce was regional cooperation… I completely credit him for our success.”
Holland is remembered by colleagues as someone who brought people together through encouragement rather than pressure—a legacy highlighted following news of his passing earlier this month.
