[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 163 (Wednesday, October 11, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1358]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     IN HONOR OF DONALD G. FREEMAN

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JIMMY PANETTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 11, 2017

  Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Donald G. 
Freeman, a constituent of California's Twentieth Congressional district 
on the occasion of his retirement. Don began his tenure as City 
Attorney for the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea in 1983. Since then, he has 
worked with seven mayors and is the longest serving city attorney in 
the city's history. During his tenure, he has provided a full range of 
legal services as the chief legal advisor to the city council, city 
administrator, the city's departments, boards and commissions. He has 
consistently provided sound legal advice to the council during the 
course of innumerable meetings and has served as counsel for several 
special districts, including the Carmel Area Wastewater and the Seaside 
Redevelopment Agency. He is also an active member of the Association of 
Monterey Bay Area Governments, as well as the Mayor's Water Authority. 
He has also gone out of his way to provide the council, city staff, 
board and commission members with mentoring and training in areas of 
ethics, conflicts of interest, and the Brown Act.
   In the performance of his duties, Don regularly evaluated projects 
that involved complex legal issues, recommended options to minimize 
legal risk, and ensured due process in city decisions. As he managed 
and guided the city through various types of litigation, he 
demonstrated a mastery of negotiating lease agreements, and drafting 
ordinances and resolutions that helped protect and preserve the 
character and integrity of Carmel-by-the-Sea.
   In addition to the vital role he played in service to the City, Don 
maintained a strong belief in public service, helping others, 
fundamental fairness, and the importance of law and education. Over 
time, he developed a keen appreciation for the history of Carmel and 
for its unique village character, eventually becoming one of its 
staunchest defenders. His understanding of Carmel-by-the-Sea, and his 
many contributions have proven to be indispensable to the city's 
officials and residents.
   Don has built strong ties that have benefitted Carmel. His counsel, 
guidance, and support to the City Council, city employees, and the 
community have made him a valued colleague. His historical and 
institutional knowledge will be missed by those who will carry on the 
work of the City or Carmel.
   In honor and recognition of his service, I would like to express my 
gratitude and appreciation to Donald G. Freeman for his more than 33 
years of counsel, advice, and dedication to the city of Carmel-by-the-
Sea. I ask that my colleagues join me in wishing Mr. Freeman the very 
best in his future endeavors, and a very happy retirement.

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