[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 61 (Monday, April 28, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E595]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          HONORING KATE VERNEZ

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. HENRY A. WAXMAN

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, April 28, 2014

  Mr. WAXMAN. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Kate Vernez as she 
retires after 27 years of dedicated service as the Deputy City Manager 
of Santa Monica.
  Kate transitioned to Southern California after a successful career 
with the City of New York, and the City of Santa Monica has truly 
benefited from her presence. I have had the distinct pleasure of 
working directly with Kate for many years, and I have personally 
witnessed how crucial her participation was in cultivating the 
necessary cooperation and collaboration among city, county, state, and 
federal governments time and time again.
  Kate has played an instrumental role in numerous transportation 
projects, including the City of Santa Monica's Big Blue Bus. My staff 
and I also were able to work one-on-one with her on the Expo Line 
project, which will ultimately connect Downtown Los Angeles to Santa 
Monica.
  In addition to improving transportation, Kate has been an integral 
part in addressing the issue of hopelessness, specifically among the 
Santa Monica veteran population. Furthermore, she has been a strong 
advocate for legislation at all levels of government that would provide 
support to veterans at our local West Los Angeles VIA campus.
  Kate is a natural leader and I have repeatedly been impressed with 
her talent and dedication. Her record of excellence is an inspiration. 
With Kate in City Hall, I have always been confident that our mutual 
constituents in Santa Monica were being well-served at the city level.
  I ask that my colleagues join me in celebrating the remarkable career 
of Kate Vernez and in wishing her all the best for the future.

                          ____________________