[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 11 (Friday, January 18, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E67]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                        HONORING MAYOR JIM WEST

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JIMMY PANETTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, January 18, 2019

  Mr. PANETTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of the 
late Mayor of San Juan Bautista, Jim West, for his outstanding career 
in public service and his commitment to the people of the central coast 
of California. His professional accomplishments and leadership in the 
community have profoundly touched the lives of many.
  Mayor West served his community in San Benito County for over 20 
years in multiple capacities. He was appointed to San Benito County 
Parks and Recreation Commission, served as vice chairman of San Benito 
County's General Plan Update Committee, served on the United Way Board 
of Directors, and was the recipient of many honorable awards 
commemorating his outstanding character. In addition to his heavy 
involvement in the community, Mayor West also honorably served our 
country in the United States Marine Corps.
  Throughout his ten years in public office, Mayor West served the City 
of San Juan Bautista as a dynamic and effective leader. Colleagues and 
friends alike praised his ability to compromise and put community needs 
at the forefront of his priorities. Mayor West was the recipient of two 
National Philanthropy Awards, the Gavilan College Community Spirit 
Award, and the San Benito Community Leadership Award. His presence in 
the community transformed many lives, and he will be remembered as a 
distinguished community member, mayor, and friend.
  Mayor Jim West's legacy is defined by his invaluable work as a public 
servant. His dedication to the community and to the people in his life 
serves as an inspiration to the Central Coast of California. He is 
survived by his daughter, granddaughter, and great-granddaughter, and 
his legacy will live on with them and in the memories of those of us 
who had the honor to know him. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues 
in the House join me in honoring Mayor Jim West.