[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 21 (Tuesday, March 1, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E319]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      RECOGNIZING THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF HAYS COUNTY JUDGE JIM POWERS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. HENRY CUELLER

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, March 1, 2005

  Mr. CUELLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jim Powers for 
his many initiatives and accomplishments as a judge and public servant 
of Hays County, Texas.
  Jim Powers was sworn in as Hays County Judge in 1999 and became the 
first ever Republican to be elected to the seat. Since taking office, 
Powers has helped make Hays County one of the fastest growing counties 
in Texas.
  Powers has been very instrumental in the growth and infrastructure 
development of Hays County. He was crucial in a $47 million bond issue 
to improve and make safer the roads in Hays County. Powers also 
negotiated the Hunter Road expansion project in San Marcos, which is 
the second major highway project in Hays County for the last 15 years. 
In addition, Judge Powers was responsible for purchasing 20 acres of 
land surrounding the Civic Center for future expansion and development.
  Powers has also supported initiatives to preserve and protect the 
environment. He supported the first ever bond issue in Hays County 
history for the preservation of parklands and open spaces.
  Some of his other accomplishments include cutting taxes, decreasing 
the county's debt, increasing the county's credit rating, improving the 
water system, and making government much more efficient in Hays County.
  Prior to becoming County Judge, Powers was a successful restaurateur, 
author, Vice President of the Dripping Springs Independent School 
District Educational Foundation, and an Executive Director of Family 
and Marriage Resources. Powers has always adhered to the basic precept 
of putting people first and motivating those around him. Throughout the 
years, this formula has brought him success in business, politics and 
in his personal relationships.
  Currently, Judge Powers resides in Dripping Springs with his wife 
Maripat Mayfield Powers and their four children. Powers is a member and 
Deacon of the First Baptist Church of Dripping Springs. I am honored to 
have this opportunity to distinguish Judge Jim Powers for his lifetime 
of achievement, and to thank him for his continued commitment to the 
betterment of our community.

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