[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 215 (Tuesday, December 14, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1373]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  IN RECOGNITION OF MAYOR TOM BERNARD

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. RICHARD E. NEAL

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 14, 2021

  Mr. NEAL. Madam Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to 
extend my warmest congratulations to Tom Bernard, a devoted public 
servant, for all that he has accomplished during his tenure as Mayor of 
the City of North Adams, Massachusetts.
  Mayor Bernard has invigorated the City of North Adams by expanding 
economic opportunities and fostering modern, future-oriented growth. 
His administration has focused on increasing green initiatives, with 
the integration of electric vehicles in the city's fleet, strategic 
action to decrease North Adams' carbon footprint, and launching the 
North Adams Tree Initiative. In addition, Mayor Bernard has been a 
staunch advocate for the marginalized in his community, working 
actively to increase diversity and inclusion initiatives within the 
city's government. Recognition of Indigenous Peoples Day in North Adams 
came largely as a product of Mayor Bernard's advocacy on these matters.
  Mayor Bernard has put significant effort in updating critical 
infrastructure in the city of North Adams despite the many challenges 
resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. Mayor Bernard successfully 
replaced all the non-functioning and malfunctioning hydrants, while 
simultaneously overseeing a full reevaluation of the city's 60-year-old 
zoning laws, creating an avenue for much needed commerce in the city.
  Madam Speaker, in light of Mayor Tom Bernard's many achievements and 
remarkable contributions to the City of North Adams and the western 
Massachusetts community, I wish to congratulate him once again on his 
successful tenure as Mayor of North Adams. He has undoubtedly played a 
pivotal role in shaping the development of North Adams for years to 
come, and I am delighted to join with his family, friends, and the 
entire North Adams community in thanking him for his dedicated service.

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