[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 1 (Wednesday, January 23, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E12]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      PAYING TRIBUTE TO JIM EVANS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SCOTT McINNIS

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 23, 2002

  Mr. McINNIS. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to 
recognize an outstanding individual from the State of Colorado. For 
over twenty years, Jim Evans has selflessly contributed his time and 
energy to the Associated Governments of Northwest Colorado, and as he 
celebrates his twentieth anniversary, I would like to thank him for his 
dedication and time served.
  As a member of the AGNC, Jim has been successful in bringing growth 
and prosperity to the northwest region. The organization was originally 
created to secure tax dollars and federal funds for the five northwest 
counties and to ensure the funds are properly distributed throughout 
the region. To achieve this goal, the AGNC created several programs to 
help distribute and secure funding. These programs include increasing 
coal production revenues, establishing tax credits for beginning 
businesses, providing regional planning and technical assistance 
grants, and the distribution of an oil shale trust fund to the counties 
of the region
  Jim has played a key role for the AGNC by drafting the legislation 
for the Mineral Leasing Distribution Formula Amendment. This effort by 
the AGNC increased available energy impact funds in the region by more 
than $23 million. Jim has also been a vital contributor to the area's 
aging programs, notably insuring the continuation of nutrition 
programs, transit opportunities, home care, legal services, and senior 
ombudsman services. Through Jim's and the AGNC's efforts, over $7 
million has been put toward funding the programs.
  Mr. Speaker, Jim Evans and the AGNC have been instrumental in 
encouraging the harmonious relationships between the counties and 
cities of the northwest county region. Through the tireless efforts of 
its members and people like Jim, northwest Colorado enjoys the prestige 
and influence it wields in the state today. Their work and dedication 
to improving the lives of Colorado residents certainly deserves the 
recognition of this body of Congress. Thanks for all your hard work 
Jim, and good luck in your future endeavors.

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