[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 152 (Wednesday, September 24, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1884]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     IN RECOGNITION OF NICK YOVINO

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 23, 2008

  Mr. COSTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today along with my colleagues from 
California, Mr. Radanovich and Mr. Nunes to pay tribute and 
congratulate the distinguished public service of Mr. Nick Yovino. After 
37 years, Nick is leaving his position as Director of the Planning 
Department with the city of Fresno. Mr. Yovino will be honored at a 
reception held by the city of Fresno on Thursday, September 25, 2008.
  Nick started as an intern in October 1971 and upon graduating from 
Fresno State he took a temporary position in the Planning and 
Inspection Department at Fresno City Hall. In 1972, Nick became a 
permanent employee as a Planning Technician with the city of Fresno. In 
2000, he became Director of the Planning and Development Department and 
since that time Nick has been instrumental on numerous development 
projects helping the city of Fresno become a better place for the 
entire community. One major focus has been downtown revitalization 
resulting in the growth of government and commercial enterprises and 
leading the way toward a vibrant downtown we can all be proud of.
  Mr. Yovino played an active role in the General Plans of 1975, 1984 
and 2025, as well as plans for the Mixed Use Ordinance, Community 
Design Guidelines and the Full Enterprising of the Planning and 
Building Safety Services Division. In addition Nick was instrumental on 
the Tower District and Fulton-Lowell Specific Plans, the Bullard 
Community Plan, the Pinedale and Highway City Woodward Park Community 
Plan and the Southeast Growth Area Expansions.
  Nick has a natural gift and ability of bringing people of diverse 
thinking together that has always resulted in making the city and 
county of Fresno a better community for residents and visitors alike. 
Over the years Nick has been an extraordinary leader and a friend.
  Madam Speaker, it goes without saying that Mr. Yovino's dedication 
and accomplishments in planning and development with the city of Fresno 
gained him the respect and appreciation from all who had the pleasure 
to work with him and know him. He worked hard, he sacrificed time away 
from his family, and he expected little in return. With retirement now 
a reality, as Nick prepares to spend more time with his children and 
grandchildren, we thank him and honor him for his many years of 
service.

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