[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 81 (Tuesday, May 11, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E499]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    HONORING THE CAREER OF KEN SMITH

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                            HON. BILLY LONG

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 11, 2021

  Mr. LONG. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the long and storied 
career of Branson West City Administrator Ken Smith.
  Mr. Smith began his tenure in 1998, and since then, has worked 
tirelessly for the people of Branson West. As City Administrator, he 
has overseen numerous projects designed to improve and expand the city. 
Shortly after he took office, the new Sewer Treatment Plant Facility 
was completed. This facility was designed to meet the needs of the city 
well into the future and has remained in operation, ready for the city 
to continue prospering. He has also overseen the expansion of utility 
lines so that the city can provide essential services to more 
properties. In addition to these projects, in recent years, sidewalks 
and streetlights have been added along Business Highway 13, and a new 
water tower has been approved.
  In October 2010, Branson West Municipal Airport was opened. The new 
airport includes a 5000-foot runway, and 10,000 square foot maintenance 
hangar connected to the terminal. There are 39 private T-hangars, all 
of which are occupied, and construction is about to begin on 4 larger 
square hangars. All of this allows for a general aviation facility, 
which serves the city and surrounding communities. In 2016, the city 
limits were expanded south on Highway 13 to Highway DD.
  All these projects have allowed for community growth. New businesses 
have been drawn to the community, and there are more projects underway 
to encourage further business expansion. The city has also recently 
acquired land for future parks and recreation. Mr. Smith has overseen 
all these projects, and many more, during his 23-year tenure as City 
Administrator.
  Madam Speaker, since taking office in 1998, Ken Smith has worked 
every day for the people of Branson West. He has led several projects 
and expansions of the city, all designed to improve the community he 
has so enthusiastically served. I wish him, and his family a happy 
retirement.

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