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Proclamation recognizing the accomplishments of Mr. James R. Barthen during his 27 years with the Port Authority and thanking him for his public service upon the occasion of his retirement.
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WHEREAS, after 27 years of distinguished service with the Port Authority of Allegheny County, Mr. James R. Barthen officially retired from his position as Manager of Grants & Government Relations on June 1, 2006; and
WHEREAS, his tenure has been marked with distinction from the day he joined the Port Authority in 1979 as a management trainee. Mr. Barthen also served as a Senior Grants Administrator and a Grants & Government Relations Specialist; and
WHEREAS, he has served on numerous boards and committees throughout his illustrious career, including the 2002 American Public Transportation Association Legislative Committee Reauthorization Task Force and the 2006-2007 Board of Directors for the Pennsylvania Public Transportation Association; and
WHEREAS, his exemplary commitment and success of lobbying for hundreds of millions of dollars from county, state and federal agencies to secure funding for Port Authority operations, capital improvement projects and improved services is to be commended;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Allegheny County Council does hereby recognize Mr. James R. Barthen for his impact on this community and its citizens; his skill in assisting in the administration of his department has only been surpassed by his devotion to providing improved public transportation to the residents of Allegheny County. Through his lifetime of dedication and professionalism, he has improved the public transportation needs of countless individuals and families. For these achievements and the many others throughout his career, Council bestows its highest commendation upon Mr. James R. Barthen and sincerest wishes for happiness on the occasion of his retirement.