[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E145-E146]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     HONORING MAYOR CHARLES HARVEY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON

                             of mississippi

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, February 20, 2026

  Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mayor 
Charles Harvey for his dedication to his community, Bolivar County and 
surrounding areas.
  Charles Harvey served as Mayor of Duncan, Mississippi, for over 30 
years, making him one of the longest-serving municipal leaders in the 
region. His decades of service reflect sustained trust from the 
community and a deep commitment to the town's well-being.
  Under Mayor Harvey's leadership, the Town of Duncan was recognized as 
a ``Healthy Hometown'' through a statewide program, showcasing the 
town's efforts to improve health and wellness for residents. The 
initiative included developing a walking trail along a former railroad 
bed, promoting outdoor activity and healthy living among all ages. This 
work was supported by grants and community engagement and involved 
events like walking clubs and ``Walk to School Day,'' making health a 
priority in local policy.
  Duncan received a Healthy Hometown award, reflecting ongoing efforts 
to create spaces and programs that encourage physical activity and 
general wellness. Though detailed public records of specific housing 
projects in Duncan are limited due to the town's small size, Mayor 
Harvey has consistently voiced concerns about housing and worked to 
address community needs. His long tenure suggests ongoing engagement 
with issues like property conditions, residential opportunities, and 
community stability common priorities in small rural towns where 
housing quality and availability directly affect residents retention 
and quality of life.
  Mayor Harvey's longstanding service has also been characterized by 
his role as a community advocate and organizer--bringing residents 
together for initiatives that improve quality of life and supporting 
and partnerships for health and housing-related projects. His 
involvement in statewide wellness programs brought recognition and 
resources to Duncan that might otherwise not have been accessible.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mayor Charles 
Harvey for his unwavering dedication to the people of his community, 
this great state, and our Nation.

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