Recognizing Mayor Jim Ardis

Floor Speech

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Mr. LaHOOD. Madam Speaker, I would like to recognize Jim Ardis for his leadership and dedication to the City of Peoria. Ardis retired in 2021 as the longest serving Mayor in the history of the City, serving for 16 years. Prior to his 4 terms as Mayor, he also served on the City Council for 6 years. We thank Mayor Ardis for his tireless advocacy and dedication to move the City forward through times of prosperity and adversity. His unwavering commitment to the community is a testament to his perseverance and love for Peoria.

During his tenure, Peoria earned the unique distinction of being named an All-America City. Mayor Ardis led the effort to create a one- of-a-kind program called Peoria Promise, which gives all students in the City the opportunity to attend community college with tuition reimbursement. Mayor Ardis's leadership also helped to develop Peoria's warehouse district which has brought economic development to the area and transformed downtown. That effort has continued recently with OSF Health Care's new headquarters also coming to Downtown Peoria. His influence on the City of Peoria over the years is endless.

In addition, Jim is a caring person that has always generously given his time and resources to many charities and philanthropic efforts that help people. One shining example is his dedication to the St. Jude Memphis to Peoria Run that raises money for children with cancer. Jim has dedicated his professional and personal life to the Peoria community and continues to do so now after his time as Mayor with his role at the OSF Foundation. I appreciate our friendship and his commitment to public service. I wish Jim great success in all his future endeavors.

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