Senate Concurrent Resolution 669

(As Adopted by Senate)

A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING THE LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP AND PUBLIC SERVICE OF MAYOR GEORGE "PAT" PATTERSON OF OXFORD, MISSISSIPPI.

WHEREAS, we pay tribute to a most public-spirited citizen of Mississippi. Mayor George "Pat" Patterson of Oxford, Mississippi, has announced he will not run for office again and has announced his intention to return to business after two terms as Alderman and two terms as Mayor. We commend him for his service and extend appreciation for the difference he has made by guiding Oxford through unprecedented growth; and

WHEREAS, Mayor Pat Patterson is a native of Oxford. His family (the Kimmons) go back six generations. He graduated from Oxford High School and then Ole Miss. He has been in business in Oxford for many years. He is a faithful member of Christ Presbyterian Church in Oxford. Mayor John Leslie appointed Pat to the Tourism Council where he served for eight years, starting in the 1980s. He has also served on the Chamber of Commerce and EDF Boards which was the springboard for his interest or gateway into politics; and

WHEREAS, under Mayor Patterson's guidance, the city grew and developed while maintaining the charm of Oxford. The city is experiencing unprecedented growth. The City of Oxford is planning for this tidal wave by recently engaging city planners. In 2037, Oxford will be 200 years old and the new strategic plan, "Seeing Oxford at 200", is being prepared. This is not only unique to Oxford, but small university towns across the United States are attracting retirees by offering a safe, clean, small environment that is most appealing. Oxford has a strong partnership with both Ole Miss and Lafayette County. Not many communities can make the statement that you can walk anywhere day or night and feel safe doing so; and

WHEREAS, Oxford has been named by USA Today as one of the top six college towns in the nation. It is included in The Best 100 Small Towns in America. Oxford's awards include:

· 2015, Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi Foundation Healthy Hometown.

· 2008, Bicycle Friendly Community (first city in Mississippi).

· 2006-2007 and 2007-2008, Recycler of the Year, Mississippi Recycling Coalition.

· 2007, Mississippi Scenic Community - Urban Forestry Commission.

· 2005, Commendation for Preservation of Historic Structures (Mississippi Department of Archives & History).

· 2001-2009, Tree City USA Award, every year.

· 2007, Money Magazine, 100 Best Places To Live.

· 2008, Outside Magazine, 20 Best Small Towns in America.

· 2005, CBS News Story, one of five ideal retirement places; and

WHEREAS, Pat Patterson is Oxford's biggest cheerleader and rightfully so! He has devoted a lifetime of energy and dedication to this city. To call him a great leader would be an understatement; and it is with great pride that we commend the enormous civic energy of a Mississippi citizen who is a wonderful example for public servants:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES CONCURRING THEREIN, That we do hereby recognize the legacy of leadership and public service of Mayor George "Pat" Patterson of Oxford, Mississippi, and extend the best wishes of the Legislature to the Mayor and his family for future success.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That this resolution be presented to Pat, forwarded to the Oxford Board of Aldermen and the Mississippi Municipal League, and made available to the Capitol Press Corps.