[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 30 (Tuesday, February 14, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E124]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF JANET ABELSON

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. MARK DeSAULNIER

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 14, 2023

  Mr. DeSAULNIER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, alongside Congressman John 
Garamendi, to recognize the life and service of former Mayor of El 
Cerrito, Janet Abelson.
  Throughout her life, Janet was a fierce advocate for marginalized 
communities. Janet was a resident of El Cerrito beginning in 1970 and 
was first elected to the El Cerrito City Council in 1999. She served as 
mayor in 2002, 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2017, a record five times, during 
her tenure with the city. Driven by a genuine passion for service, 
Janet spearheaded many efforts to advance transportation equity, 
disability rights, and to improve the lives of seniors within the city. 
She was a strong supporter of El Cerrito's Student Bus Pass Program, 
advocating for improved accessibility for all. Janet was also 
instrumental in modernizing El Cerrito's infrastructure and advocating 
for the interests of her fellow community members. Among her many 
achievements, Janet was especially proud of the San Pablo Avenue 
Specific Plan, a plan she authored which would establish a clear vision 
for San Pablo Avenue and provide greater opportunities for work and 
community life in the city.
  Janet was also a key member of a variety of regional groups, 
constantly seeking ways to serve Contra Costa families. She worked 
closely with the League of Women Voters, PTA of Harding and El Cerrito 
High School, Soroptimist International of El Cerrito, and served as 
chair of the West Contra Costa Transportation Authority, Contra Costa 
Transportation Authority, and the East Bay Division, League of 
California Cities. Her leadership has been critical in helping to 
improve quality of life for residents throughout the Bay Area.
  Sadly, Janet passed away on January 26, 2023 at the age of 76. Janet 
leaves behind an indelible legacy and her work will continue to have a 
lasting impact on the West County Community. She will be remembered for 
her determination, compassion, and for her many contributions to our 
community. Please join me and Congressman Garamendi in honoring Janet 
Abelson for her outstanding 23 years of public service to the City of 
El Cerrito and the Bay Area.

                          ____________________