TITLE: In memory of noted regional planner and University of Texas professor Dr. Kent Butler.

SUMMARY: In memory of noted regional planner and University of Texas professor Dr. Kent Butler.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Family and friends are mourning the loss of Dr. Kent Butler, noted regional planner and professor at The University of Texas at Austin, who tragically passed away on May 13, 2011, at the age of 60; and WHEREAS, An associate dean in the school of architecture and director of the graduate program in community and regional planning, Kent Butler focused on solutions that balanced community water needs with the preservation of water and wildlife; he served on commissions and negotiated with developers, helping to manage Austin's growth, and he was instrumental in creating the Barton Springs Edwards Aquifer Conservation District as well as the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve, one of the largest urban preserves in the United States; described by colleagues as highly influential in his field, he was also known for his positive attitude and love of nature; and WHEREAS, Dr. Butler earned his bachelor's and master's degrees and his doctorate from the University of Wisconsin and came to UT in 1978; in recent years, he secured more than $3 million in funding for environmental planning research and programs addressing issues in areas throughout Texas; in all of his endeavors, he enjoyed the love and support of his wife, Christy, and he took pride in a fine family that includes four children, Lana, Emily, Josh, and Nick; and WHEREAS, The passion and generosity of spirit that Kent Butler brought to every undertaking endeared him deeply to all who knew him, and memories of him will be forever treasured by those who were privileged to share in his life; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas Legislature hereby pay tribute to the memory of Dr. Kent Butler and extend sincere sympathy to the members of his family: to his wife, Christy; to his children, Lana Butler, Emily Butler, Josh Butler, and Nick Kincaid; to his son-in-law, Dave Kaz; to his brother, Bruce Butler; to his sister-in-law, Phyllis Butler; to his sister, Lind Butler; to his brother-in-law, Bill Connolly; and to his other relatives and many friends; 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 Dr. Kent Butler. Naishtat Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 2624 was unanimously adopted by a rising vote of the House on May 30, 2011. Chief Clerk of the House