[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 154 (Friday, October 14, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1870]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               HONORING MARIN COUNTY SUPERVISOR HAL BROWN

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. LYNN C. WOOLSEY

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 14, 2011

  Ms. WOOLSEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a colleague, Hal 
Brown, on the occasion of his retirement after 29 years of service to 
Marin County. Since he was first appointed to the Board of Supervisors 
to represent the Second District, Hal demonstrated a caring, thoughtful 
and committed approach to addressing the issues facing the residents of 
Marin.
  Hal's priorities have been clear from the start. He focuses on 
families, education, environment, responsible government and economic 
vitality. His own vitality and dedication led him to serve on more than 
25 boards and organizations, from the Marin Conservation League to the 
Rape Crisis Center, from the Golden Gate Bridge Highway and 
Transportation District to the Disabled Students Advisory Board.
  This work has resulted in a long list of notable accomplishments--for 
example, preserving more than 1,500 acres of open space, founding 
FireSafe Marin, supporting the Marin Energy Authority and Safe Routes 
to Schools, and authoring Marin's Family Medical Leave law. I remain 
one of his most appreciative fans for his early and ongoing leadership 
on important women's issues.
  After the New Year's Eve flood of 2005, Hal moved to make his 
district safer by establishing the first regional flood warning system 
in the Ross Valley. He continued to work for a watershed-wide approach 
that would combine flood control with environmental restoration and 
water quality.
  Hal prided himself on his accessibility, and his door was always open 
to the many who appreciated working with a man of his integrity and 
drive. The fact that he continued to serve the last year despite 
battling serious illness speaks volumes about his commitment to his 
constituents. His thoughtful study of issues, while listening to all 
sides, has earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues 
throughout the North Bay.
  A San Anselmo resident for almost 40 years, Hal coached various youth 
sports while raising his two sons, Mike and Chris.
  Mr. Speaker, for nearly three decades, Hal Brown has served Marin 
County with enormous intelligence and dedication. Hal's hard work is 
one of the reasons that Marin remains such a beautiful, vibrant, well-
governed community. It has been a privilege to work with him, and I ask 
you to join me in wishing him good health and a well-deserved 
retirement.

                          ____________________