Bill Text: MI HR0147 | 2015-2016 | 98th Legislature | Enrolled
Bill Title: A resolution of tribute offered as a memorial for James A. Plakas, former member of the House of Representatives.
Spectrum: Partisan Bill (Republican 1-0)
Status: (Passed) 2015-09-16 - Adopted By Unanimous Standing Vote [HR0147 Detail]
Download: Michigan-2015-HR0147-Enrolled.html
The Speaker, on behalf of the entire membership of the House of Representatives, offered the following resolution:
House Resolution No. 147.
A resolution of tribute offered as a memorial for James A. Plakas, former member of the House of Representatives.
Whereas, The members of this legislative body were saddened to learn of the passing of former Representative James A. Plakas. Active in the Democratic Party since 1957, his honorable history as a public servant is well worth remembering, as it included many years as an advocate for Garden City locally and as a member of the House of Representatives. He had an impact on and understanding of his community that were greatly appreciated; and
Whereas, James Plakas earned a master's degree in mechanical engineering from Lawrence Technological University and also completed the Ford Engineering Program at Henry Ford Community College on his way to a 40-year career as a product design engineer for Ford Motor Company. Serving his country as a member of the U.S. Army's Counter Intelligence Corps in the Korean War, Plakas also dedicated a good part of his life to public service to his city and state. He sat on the Garden City Council for 19 years, the last two as mayor. Stints as the chairman of the Central Wayne Sanitation Authority, member of the Nankin Transit Commission, and member of the Schoolcraft Community College Advisory Board-Radcliff Center, are examples of his willingness to share his time and talents for the public good. In recognition of his dedication to public service, Plakas received the Ford Motor Co. National Award for Community Service; and
Whereas, In 2000, James Plakas was elected to the first of his three terms in the House of Representatives, representing the district comprising Garden City, Inkster, and part of Wayne County. He served on the Appropriations Committee all three terms. Plakas brought experience and vigor to his subcommittee work focused on agriculture, education, and transportation. Later, he was appointed to the Gaming Control Board by Governor Granholm where he served with distinction for two years; and
Whereas, James Plakas distinguished himself as a dedicated public servant, a successful engineer, and a loving family man during his lifetime. His honorable service to our state will not be forgotten; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we offer this expression of our highest tribute to honor the memory of James A. Plakas, a member of this legislative body from 2001 to 2006; and be it further
Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Plakas family as evidence of our lasting esteem for his memory.
