TITLE: Recognizing James E. "Jim" Darling for his career of public service.

SUMMARY: Recognizing James E. "Jim" Darling for his career of public service.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize Mayor James E. "Jim" Darling of McAllen, who is retiring at the end of his term in May of 2021 after 43 years of exemplary public service to the McAllen community; and WHEREAS, An esteemed veteran and civic leader, Jim Darling began a career of service to his fellow citizens when he joined the United States Air Force in 1967; he served two tours of duty in Vietnam, and in addition, he served for three years in the United States Navy Reserve; he earned a degree from Baylor University in 1975 and graduated from the Baylor Law School in 1977; and WHEREAS, Mr. Darling specialized in local government law and served for 28 years as a city attorney for the City of McAllen and other governmental entities; he served as the McAllen city commissioner for District 6 from 2007 until 2013, when he assumed the office of mayor of McAllen; he set lasting standards for excellence and was reelected by voters in 2017, and throughout his tenure, he has served the people of McAllen with skill and dedication; and WHEREAS, Mayor Darling has served on the boards of many civic, charitable, and professional organizations, and he has received numerous accolades and awards for his contributions to the community and his professional accomplishments; and WHEREAS, Jim Darling is the devoted husband of Sandra Darling and the proud father of six children; he is a highly regarded steward of the McAllen community, and his leadership as mayor of McAllen will be greatly missed; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 87th Legislature, hereby commend James E. Darling on his outstanding career of public service and his distinguished tenure as mayor of the City of McAllen and extend to him sincere best wishes for the future; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for him as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate. Hinojosa, Lucio President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on May 5, 2021.