Statement by Congresswoman Jane Harman

Congresswoman Jane harman - Press Release

Tribute to the Honorable Ruth Galanter

May 21, 2003

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor a close friend, a remarkable public servant and courageous advocate for the people of California--the Honorable Ruth Galanter. Ruth is retiring from the Los Angeles City Council after 16 years of service, where her insights, legislative acumen, and keen intellect will be sorely missed.

Mr. Speaker, there is no magic formula for determining what makes a good public servant, but in Ruth Galanter all the ingredients for success were there. Ruth brought her intelligence, wit, and political skills to bear on behalf of her constituents, her community and countless important causes. And all the people of Los Angeles benefited from her ability to get things done.

It has been my great pleasure to work with Ruth on many of these causes. Just last month, Ruth and I participated in a ceremony with the Army Corps of Engineers commemorating the installation of tidal gates along the Ballona Creek in my district. The gates will help preserve scarce wetlands, restore critical habitat, and provide recreational and educational opportunities for the community for years to come.

The project, more than 10 years in the making, is a perfect illustration of a top-notch public servant at the peak of her powers. Ruth Galanter's ability to focus on a particular outcome; to build and nurture diverse coalitions; to bring together all levels of government in support of a common goal; her fundamental and unwavering commitment to a healthy environment--these are the gifts that she unselfishly shared with the community.

Over the years, Ruth's work resulted in the preservation of the Bolsa Chica Wetlands and the El Segundo Dunes, and she spearheaded efforts to clean up Santa Monica Bay and conserve the Ballona wetlands. She led the effort to renovate Venice Beach and preserve the Venice Pier.

She has promoted smart growth and sustainable development, advocated for a regional airport system and high-speed rail, and tirelessly promoted water conservation and recycling.

While this chapter of Ruth Galanter's public service may be coming to a close, she leaves behind a proud and lasting legacy. The crowning achievement of an environmentalist is to leave the earth a little cleaner, a little greener and a little brighter than when they started. Ruth Galanter has accomplished this and more.