[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 83 (Thursday, May 18, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1074]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                    DAVID BARNES, BAY CITY THANKS YOU

                                 ______


                          HON. JAMES A. BARCIA

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 18, 1995
  Mr. BARCIA. Mr. Speaker, we have spent a great deal of time in this 
Congress and the last talking about the importance of placing proper 
limits on the role of the Federal Government, and giving greater due to 
local officials. Those closest to the problems and needs of our 
communities often have the best capability of dealing with them in an 
effective and responsible fashion.
  Bay City, MI, has been most fortunate to be served by one such 
official, our city manager, David Barnes. He is retiring after 18 years 
of service to Bay City, as an assessor, finance director, personnel 
director, the city manager, and even for 3 days its fire chief. He is 
being honored this weekend for his years of dedication to his 
neighbors, and I am pleased to be joining in this tribute to his many 
accomplishments for Bay City.
  David Barnes understands the importance of business. That is why he 
has worked on behalf of a number of economic development proposals 
during his career. He understands the need for infrastructure. His work 
to secure funding for road and bridge improvements help our community 
move safely and efficiently. He understands the value of tourism and 
recreation. His work to improve city parks and other recreational 
attractions have provided children with enjoyable places in which to 
play, and adults with a sea of calm in the midst of the overwhelming 
demands of everyday life. His work on behalf of riverfront development 
provides an appropriate blend of business opportunity and more 
recreational opportunities for those who live and visit our city. He 
understands the value of a dollar, and the trust that taxpayers place 
in officials to be sure that dollars are well-spent. His improvements 
in financial management capabilities, and the improved use of 
technology to trace the flow of funds have saved the community money, 
and kept its records in impeccable order.
  Most importantly, David Barnes understands people and the need to 
work with people in a friendly and efficient manner to accomplish goals 
that have been set. He has skillfully worked to settle the joint needs 
of both Bay County and Bay City. He has worked well with Federal and 
State officials, and his colleagues with other units of local 
government.
  Mr. Speaker, I invite you and all of our colleagues to join me in 
wishing David Barnes, his wife JoEllen, his children Bradley, Bryan, 
and Valerie, a very happy retirement. I am sure he will remain a 
vibrant part of the Bay City community, continuing to contribute in a 
most productive way.


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