[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 106 (Friday, July 31, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1502]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO CARL S. SMITH

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. GENE GREEN

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, July 31, 1998

  Mr. GREEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to reflect on the passing of an 
outstanding man, a legendary Houstonian, and a great Texan, Carl S. 
Smith, who died this week at the age of 89. Carl served 51 years as 
Harris County's Tax Assessor and Collector. Mr. Smith served the 
citizens of Harris County with distinction and honor.
  Carl was a legend in Harris County politics. He was first appointed 
to the office by the Harris County Commissioners Court in 1947. The 
next year, he won election to the office and was re-elected 12 times.
  Well liked and respected, Mr. Smith was revered by many of his 
employees. He was always known for insisting, from his staff, on 
unwavering courtesy to the public. He expected much of this staff, but 
he treated them kindly and with respect.
  Carl had a real interest in helping all people. In 1952, he was the 
first Harris County official to promote an African-American employee to 
an important government position, a deputy clerkship. In addition, he 
wrote the statewide property tax exemption for citizens over 65 that 
was later adopted as a constitutional amendment.
  Carl's wife of 59 years, Dorothy DeArman Smith, died in 1991. They 
were parents of two daughters, Nancy Stewart and Pam Robinson, both of 
Houston.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask all the Members of the House to join me in 
offering their gratitude for the hard work and dedication of Carl S. 
Smith.

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