SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 591
In Memory
of
Harold Patterson
WHEREAS, Residents of Arlington lost a beloved neighbor
and admired community leader with the passing of Harold Patterson
on March 20, 2009; and
WHEREAS, Described as instrumental in the development of
Arlington, Mr. Patterson began his service on the city council in
1966, and he became mayor pro tempore in 1977; elected mayor in
1983, he demonstrated exceptional leadership that helped guide
the city through a period of explosive population growth; and
WHEREAS, Throughout his political career, Mr. Patterson
stressed unity, a message well-received by both voters and his
fellow elected officials; Arlington earned its first AA Bond
rating under his able guidance, helping to generate decades of
savings for taxpayers; moreover, he worked to expand funding for
new streets in the city, and his efforts to fluoridate the local
water supply led to improved dental health for area residents; and
WHEREAS, After retirement, he went on to start his own
property tax consulting business, and he was later appointed to a
position on the Tarrant Appraisal Review Board; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Patterson further distinguished himself
through his participation with the Arlington Community Hospital
board of directors, the Education Advisory Board of the Arlington
Independent School District, and the Parks and Recreation Board
and as president of the Arlington Boys Club, Lions Club, and
Arlington Chamber of Commerce; and
WHEREAS, Known as "Mr. Arlington," he was presented a
number of accolades for his service to the community; in addition
to receiving the Outstanding Young Man of Arlington and Citizen
of the Year awards, he was recognized by the city, which
dedicated the Harold Patterson Sports Center in South Arlington
in his honor; and
WHEREAS, A man of great vision and enormous ability, Harold
Patterson represented his fellow citizens with skill and
commitment, and his actions mirrored his concern for the welfare
of each member of society; although he will be deeply missed, he
leaves behind a remarkable legacy that will benefit Arlington
residents for years to come; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 81st
Legislature, hereby pay tribute to the life of Arlington civic
leader and former mayor Harold Patterson and extend sincere
sympathy to the members of his family: to his wife, Frances
Louise; to his son, Michael; to his daughter, Teresa; to his six
grandchildren; to his great-granddaughter; 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 Senate adjourns
this day, it do so in memory of Harold Patterson.
Davis, Harris
________________________________
President of the Senate
I hereby certify that the
above Resolution was adopted by
the Senate on April 6, 2009, by a
rising vote.
________________________________
Secretary of the Senate
________________________________
Member, Texas Senate
________________________________
Member, Texas Senate