[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 110 (Wednesday, July 24, 1996)]
[House]
[Pages H8372-H8373]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRIBUTE TO DAVID J. TOSCANO

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a previous order of the House, the 
gentleman from Virginia [Mr. Payne] is recognized for 5 minutes.
  Mr. PAYNE of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a 
citizen whose passion for public service has benefited his community 
for over a decade.
  On July 1, 1996 David J. Toscano stepped down as mayor of 
Charlottesville, VA after presiding in that office for 2 years. During 
his tenure as mayor, as well as his previous political career, David 
has squarely focused his efforts on making sustainability a reality for 
the city of Charlottesville.

[[Page H8373]]

  He has worked with developers and other community leaders to rebuild 
the city's tax base and placed new emphasis on creating and improving 
affordable housing and social programs in priority neighborhoods. He 
works tirelessly to raise education standards and has shown unfaltering 
commitment to improving race relations.
  In 1984, after only 3 years in Charlottesville, David was appointed 
to the city's Social Development Commission. Four years later he became 
the Chair of that commission. Since being elected to city council in 
1990 he has served as Chair of the Charlottesville Redevelopment and 
Housing Authority, co-chair of the West Main Street Task Force, and as 
a member of the Regional Housing Task Force. He has also chaired the 
Charlottesville Social Development Commission and the Charlottesville 
Committee on Race Relations and Public Sector.
  As a member of the city council, David devotes himself to serving the 
best interest of the city and its residents. He has used everything 
from the Internet to open houses and has attended hundreds of public 
events to remain accessible and keep in touch with the wants and needs 
of his constituents.
  A firm believer in empowering government at the local level, David 
confronts each issue with an enlightened blend of prudence and vigor. 
He delves to the heart of every matter, often taking the job home with 
him. And, he has never been afraid to weather controversy and 
opposition in doing what he felt was best for Charlottesville.
  As Charlottesville enters the 21st century, its citizens are 
fortunate to have a public servant with such uncommon devotion to his 
calling. And, with David remaining on city council, they can rest 
assured that he will continue to work tirelessly with their general 
welfare and Charlottesville's future in mind.
  Mr. Speaker, I consider myself privileged to have worked with David 
Toscano and I am proud to take this milestone in the man's career as an 
opportunity to honor his outstanding service and continued dedication.

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