[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 77 (Thursday, May 20, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E902-E903]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   TRIBUTE TO FORMER MAYOR TOM HAYES

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. IKE SKELTON

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 20, 2010

  Mr. SKELTON. Madam Speaker, let me extend my gratitude and 
appreciation for the twelve years Mr. Tom Hayes served as Mayor of my 
hometown of Lexington, Missouri. For over a decade, Mr. Hayes 
selflessly dedicated his life to the betterment of all who call 
Lexington home.
  For twelve years, Mr. Hayes oversaw top to bottom improvements in 
Lexington that led to economic growth and increased safety. He tackled 
the problem of an aging infrastructure by overseeing the repaving of 
major thoroughfares and improving the city's intersections. These 
investments in the city's streets complimented Mr. Hayes' focus on 
economic development. He led the effort to refresh and improve the 
River Front Park, an important historical marker and central meeting 
place for

[[Page E903]]

the city, and he oversaw the development of the city's new theater. 
These improvements and the acquisition of the existing City Hall 
facility ensured the city was on sound fiscal footing.
  Mr. Hayes' approach to governing the city was innovative and 
refreshing. He harnessed the collective wisdom of Lexington's best and 
brightest by establishing numerous boards and committees, such as the 
Transportation Board and the Marina Committee. He also maintained and 
strengthened relationships with Wentworth Military Academy and other 
local institutions. These partnerships will continue to benefit 
Lexington for years to come.
  Mr. Hayes serves our community in many capacities outside of his role 
as Mayor. An active member of the First Baptist Church and a dedicated 
family man, he is a committed member of numerous community boards and 
foundations. As a man of good character with a high moral standard, he 
has set a wonderful example for all of Lexington's residents. He has 
and will continue to make the City of Lexington a wonderful place to 
live, do business, and raise a family.
  Madam Speaker, the commitment to service that Mr. Hayes has shown 
throughout his life is an inspiration to me personally and to us all. I 
trust my fellow members of the House will join me in thanking him for 
his unyielding service to the City and the citizens of Lexington.

                          ____________________