[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 184 (Wednesday, November 30, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1189]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





          RECOGNIZING THE PAUL J. SMITH, JR. MUNICIPAL COMPLEX

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. FRANK PALLONE, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 30, 2022

  Mr. PALLONE. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the 
dedication of the Paul J. Smith, Jr. Municipal Complex in Union Beach, 
New Jersey. I join with borough officials, employees, and residents in 
celebrating the completion of this project as well as the life and 
service of Mayor Paul J. Smith, Jr. Mayor Paul Smith passed away on 
April 30, 2020 after a life filled with numerous professional and 
personal accomplishments. Mayor Smith left an indelible mark on the 
Union Beach community, and the dedication of the municipal complex is a 
fitting tribute to his contributions.
  A dedicated public servant, Mayor Smith served on the Borough Council 
for nearly 25 years before being elected mayor in 2007. Throughout his 
tenure, Mayor Smith promoted community-building, townwide improvements, 
and transparency. In the wake of Superstorm Sandy, Mayor Smith led 
recovery efforts with determination and collaboration, lending his 
voice and experience on President Obama's Hurricane Sandy Rebuilding 
Task Force.
  Not only a respected government official, Mayor Smith was also an 
active member of the greater community. He began the town's recreation 
basketball program and girls' softball league, coached, and served as 
commissioner of the Union Beach-Keyport Baseball Little League. He was 
also a long-time employee of International Flavors and Fragrances of 
neighboring Hazlet, New Jersey. Mayor Smith was deeply committed to 
giving back to his community and made an impact on everyone he met.
  Begun under Mayor Smith's leadership, the newly renovated and 
expanded Municipal Complex will improve safety and accessibility for 
employees and visitors and accommodate the growing needs of the 
borough. I commend borough leadership for its unwavering commitment to 
the project and to meeting the needs of the residents.
  Madam Speaker, once again, it is my honor to commemorate today's 
dedication ceremony in memory of Paul J. Smith, Jr.

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