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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
CONGRATULATING ARLINGTON HEIGHTS LIBRARY TRUSTEE DEBBIE SMART ON HER RETIREMENT
WHEREAS, Debbie Smart is embarking on well-deserved retirement after a storied tenure as a trustee with the Arlington Heights Public Library; and
WHEREAS, Debbie Smart is 31-year resident of Arlington Heights, and is a venerable staple in the community; and
WHEREAS, outside of her time as Arlington Heights Library Trustee, Debbie Smart is a devoted volunteer in the community, even winning an award from the Village of Arlington Heights for her extensive efforts; and
WHEREAS, Debbie Smart began her time as an elected individual in public office in 2011; and
WHEREAS, Debbie Smart blazed a trail as the first openly LGBTQ person elected to public office in Arlington Heights; and
WHEREAS, Debbie Smart inspired the creation of the Makerplace, a space for hands-on experiential learning; and
WHEREAS, the 8,000-square-foot Makerplace Debbie spearheaded boasts laser cutters, 3D printers, embroidery, quilting and sewing machines available for use by the public at no charge; and
WHEREAS, Debbie Smart was an instrumental advocate in the creation of the Arlington Heights Memorial Library Foundation, which has played a critical role in gathering equipment donations and support for the facility; and
WHEREAS, Debbie Smart has long championed the Arlington Heights Library’s diversity initiatives, including championing the display of the Pride Flag outside of the Library in celebration of Pride Month; and
WHEREAS, Debbie Smart was bestowed the prestigious Librarian of the Year Award in 2019 by the Illinois Library Association; and
WHEREAS, this award served as deserved recognition of Debbie’s tireless and extensive work for the Arlington Heights Library; and
WHEREAS, Debbie Smart was commended for her passion, noting her constant and vocal advocacy for the Arlington Heights Library, and libraries everywhere; and
WHEREAS, Debbie Smart’s belief that libraries are a key part of communities they serve, and play a vital role in bringing individuals together was at the core of her ambitions; and
WHEREAS, Debbie Smart’s tenacity, dedication, and leadership will be sorely missed as she begins her next chapter; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Cook County Board of Commissioners does hereby congratulate Debbie Smart for her innumerable contributions to the Arlington Heights community; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the text of this resolution be spread across the journal of proceedings of this honorable body and that a suitable copy hereof be presented to Debbie Smart as a means of communicating our thanks and well-wishes.end