TITLE: In memory of former Belton mayor Ira James "Jim" Covington.

SUMMARY: In memory of former Belton mayor Ira James "Jim" Covington.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The city of Belton lost an esteemed community leader with the passing of former mayor Ira James Covington on December 20, 2018, at the age of 74; and WHEREAS, Jim Covington was born to Ira and Hazel Covington on December 12, 1944, in Wynnewood, Oklahoma; he embarked on a successful career in banking and later went into property management with Covington Rentals; and WHEREAS, This dedicated public servant gave back to his fellow residents as a member of the Belton City Council, and he went on to hold the office of mayor from 2006 to 2014; during his tenure, he helped create a strategic plan to address the area's rapid growth, and under his leadership, the city launched the Nolan Creek improvement project and began work on the Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue bridge, which opened in 2016; and WHEREAS, Mr. Covington further contributed to his community through his involvement with the parks board, the Belton Area Chamber of Commerce, and the C.A.R.E. Leadership Network, which he helped found; moreover, he was a valued congregant of First Baptist Belton, where he was a trustee, deacon, and Sunday school teacher; in recognition of his many accomplishments, he was named an honorary alumnus of the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor; and WHEREAS, Mr. Covington enjoyed a rewarding marriage with his wife, Terri, and he took great pride in his two sons, Barrett and Dave, and three grandchildren; and WHEREAS, Although Jim Covington's death has brought great sorrow to those who loved him, his life was an inspiring example of the good that one person can accomplish; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 86th Texas Legislature hereby pay tribute to the memory of former Belton mayor Ira James "Jim" Covington and extend sincere condolences to all who mourn his passing; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for his family and that when the Texas House of Representatives adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Jim Covington. Shine Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 298 was unanimously adopted by a rising vote of the House on March 13, 2019. Chief Clerk of the House