House Resolution 72

(As Adopted by House)

A RESOLUTION CONGRATULATING MAYOR LEO "CHIPPER" MCDERMOTT OF PASS CHRISTIAN ON THE OCCASION OF HIS RETIREMENT AND COMMENDING HIM FOR 16 YEARS OF EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE TO THE CITIZENS OF PASS CHRISTIAN.

WHEREAS, Mayor Leo "Chipper" McDermott will retire at the end of his term in June 2021, after he has faithfully served the citizens of Pass Christian with 16 years of continuous service as mayor, and nine years of service as their alderman; and

WHEREAS, he is currently the longest serving mayor on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, and has been popular not only in his city but amongst his mayoral peers; and

WHEREAS, he selflessly began his tenure as mayor during the city's historic recovery from Hurricane Katrina during which time he emerged as a key public figure when he was chosen to lead the city by the local board of aldermen after the late mayor vacated city responsibilities; and

WHEREAS, this native of Pass Christian has been a visionary leader who has worked alongside city officials to bring in a number of new businesses, festivals and two hotels, all while cleaning up debris after the hurricane and restoring businesses that existed before Hurricane Katrina; and

WHEREAS, his prolific reputation for economic development in Pass Christian has crossed its borders over the years and commanded the ear of many officials in neighboring cities who seek or have sought advice in bringing new business to their areas; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives to celebrate the outstanding dedication of public servants such as Mayor Leo "Chipper" McDermott, who have lead their citizens out of the ashes and debris of hurricane recovery into prosperity:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby congratulate Mayor Leo "Chipper" McDermott on the occasion of his retirement after 16 years of exceptional service to the citizens of Pass Christian and extend sincere wishes for his success in all future endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to Mayor Leo "Chipper" McDermott and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.