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grateful that I have had the opportunity to serve with and under John. He has consistently set the <br />example for us of making the best Lakewood decision, the decision that he believes to be the best <br />for his constituents in the city that we all love regardless of political gain, ego, or personal <br />feelings. Council Presidents don’t always see themselves as part of a leadership team, but John <br />has graciously made room for my voice, given me opportunities to be part of decision-making, <br />and knowing that he would be moving on, position Council for a smooth transition. John, <br />though I know we will be seeing continued great things from you, we will miss you on Council. <br />Thank you for your leadership my friend, and I would like to thank Clerk Bach for her help in <br />crafting this resolution and in a moment, ask her to read the whereas clauses, which note how <br />John Litten has dedicated his professional elected career to public service and highlight some of <br />his accomplishments over his eight years on Council. I hope that you will adopt this resolution, <br />and join me in celebrating our colleague, thanking him for his service to Lakewood and wishing <br />him well.” <br />Clerk of Council Bach then read through the resolution as requested. <br />President Liten made a motion to adopt the resolution, seconded by Councilmember Baker. <br />Councilmember Bullock echoed the sentiments of the resolution and added that President Liten <br />has been a ferocious champion of curb repairs in the city. He said it was Litten who through the <br />council budget priorities made curb repairs part of normal business. He stated that it is a perfect <br />example of how attention to detail, responsiveness to residents, and doing our jobs thoroughly <br />adds up over time to make our neighborhoods and city better. <br />Councilmember Rader reflected on how he sat next to Mr. Litten his first few years in Council, <br />and that Mr. Litten provided good guidance for a young councilmember. He said his words of <br />wisdom and encouragement will always stick with him. <br />Councilmeber Baker commented that you can tell a lot about a man on where he spends his time, <br />and Council President Litten has literally devoted his life to nonprofit service and the service of <br />others in local government. He said that Council President Litten represents the best of his St. <br />Edwards education, which is service to others. <br /> <br />Councilmember Marx spoke on how it was an honor to serve on Council with President Litten <br />during the difficult and trying time of closing the hospital. She said that they both hated to see it <br />close, but they knew it was in the best interest of the City in the long run. She echoed what other <br />Councilmembers said about his commitment to service and to his community. <br /> <br />Councilmember Shachner commented on how President Litten has not only brought institutional <br />knowledge to his tenure but also deep knowledge of the City of Lakewood, as a lifelong resident. <br />He said he has always admired his deep commitment to the city block clubs and community <br />building. He said a pattern in John’s service is that it has always been about empowering others, <br />not himself, and that extended to his colleagues on Council as well. <br /> <br />A slideshow was then shared with pictures of President Litten’s time on Council. <br /> <br />11 <br /> <br /> <br />