TITLE: Honoring Antonio "Tony" Martinez for his service as mayor of Brownsville.

SUMMARY: Honoring Antonio "Tony" Martinez for his service as mayor of Brownsville.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Antonio Martinez is concluding his distinguished eight-year tenure as mayor of Brownsville in May 2019; and WHEREAS, First elected in 2011, Tony Martinez worked to increase transparency and enhance the professionalism of municipal staff; he promoted effective teamwork with other governmental entities, civic groups, and citizens to further such goals as revitalization of the downtown area, expansion of the manufacturing sector, development of hike and bike trails, and growth of the airport; and WHEREAS, Under the leadership of Mayor Martinez, the city coordinated with the Brownsville Public Utilities Board to restore resacas that provide flood protection while protecting the environment and attracting tourism; Brownsville also partnered with The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley in support of its STARGATE research center, which introduces students to opportunities in the aerospace industry; in addition, Mayor Martinez spearheaded a number of notable projects, including the Strong Cities, Strong Communities initiative, the Brownsville Performing Arts Academy, the My Brother's Keeper Community Challenge, and the U.S. Department of Transportation Mayor's Challenge for Safer People, Safer Streets; and WHEREAS, Mayor Martinez previously benefited the community as chair of the Saint Joseph Academy directory and the Guadalupe Regional Middle School board; a Harlingen native, he has practiced law for more than 35 years and is a member of many professional associations; he studied at Tulane University and UT and graduated from St. Mary's University School of Law; in all his endeavors, he is supported by the love and encouragement of his wife, Carla Saenz-Martinez, and he is the proud father of four children, Antonio, Benigno, Melissa, and Andres, and the grandfather of two children, Jason and Alyssa; and WHEREAS, Through his vision, skill, and dedication to public service, Tony Martinez has done much to effect positive change in Brownsville, and he may take justifiable pride in his contributions in behalf of his fellow Texans; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 86th Texas Legislature hereby honor Antonio Martinez for his service as mayor of Brownsville and extend to him sincere best wishes for continued success; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Mayor Martinez as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives. Lucio III Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 1674 was adopted by the House on May 24, 2019, by a non-record vote. Chief Clerk of the House