Recognizing Theodore M. Renz

Floor Speech

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Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Theodore M. Renz, who is retiring after nearly four decades of exceptional public service as the Executive Director of the Myrtle Avenue Business Improvement District (BID) in Ridgewood, Queens. Throughout his distinguished career, Mr. Renz has exemplified an unwavering commitment to community development, small business, and neighborhood revitalization, laying a strong foundation for a more vibrant community for future generations.

Since the Myrtle Avenue BID's establishment in 1988, Mr. Renz has been at the helm, guiding it through transformative growth. Recognizing the vital role that small businesses play in New York City's economy, Mr. Renz has worked tirelessly to ensure that the BID serves as an accessible and indispensable resource for local entrepreneurs. Under his leadership, the BID supports more than 300 businesses along a mile- long stretch of Myrtle Avenue, providing essential services including sanitation, public safety, beautification, and marketing that fosters a robust and welcoming commercial corridor.

Mr. Renz's tenure is marked by numerous accomplishments. He spearheaded major urban improvement projects, including a $2.4 million streetscape enhancement for Myrtle Avenue and played a pivotal role in helping secure a $55 million upgrade of the Myrtle-Wyckoff transit hub, enhancing accessibility for thousands of daily commuters and consumers. As an advocate for open space, he successfully championed the conversion of underutilized spaces into public plazas for the community. Today, the BID corridor is home to four new public plazas enjoyed by all.

As a lifetime resident of Ridgewood, Mr. Renz public service extends beyond the BID. He has served as Executive Director of the Ridgewood Local Development Corporation (RLDC) and as a member of Queens Community Board 5, consistently advocating for small businesses, public safety, and quality-of-life improvements. His collaboration with city agencies, elected officials, and local stakeholders has left a lasting impact on the Ridgewood community.

As Mr. Renz embarks on a well-earned retirement after 37 years of dedicated public service, I extend my deepest gratitude for his leadership, and unwavering commitment to strengthening the economic fabric of New York City. Therefore, Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Theodore M. Renz for his outstanding contributions and wishing him good health and joy in this next chapter of life.

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