PRESS RELEASES - APRIL 2007

Arlington Mayor Pro Tem Receives 2007 Partnership Award

April 4, 2007

The Greater Fort Worth Builders Association has presented its 2007 Partnership Award to Arlington Mayor Pro Tem Ron Wright. The award was presented March 29 at the association’s 10th Annual Municipal Night Awards and Banquet in Fort Worth.

The Partnership Award recognizes a mayor, city council member, county official or appointed city official who has stimulated or fostered a strong partnership between the construction industry, municipal government and the community. According to GFWBA Government Affairs Director Meredith Martin, the award recipient recognizes the direct and indirect benefits of new home construction and advocates for reasonable city policies, codes, and ordinances that impact the building industry.

Wright was acknowledged for his 22 years of community service, leadership, ability to work with people, and his involvement in economic development policies that have resulted in major construction projects in Arlington.

In his acceptance remarks, Wright said, “Arlington is undergoing a transformation, and nowhere is it more noticeable than at Arlington City Hall.”

Wright noted the changes made in Arlington’s Community Development and Planning Department led by Director Jim Parajon, including the creation of the One Start Center for development projects that is streamlining planning and permitting processes. He also noted the city's refocused economic development strategies. Many of these efforts have not gone unnoticed, he told an audience of more than 200 guests.

“Arlington hit a grand slam at the Dallas Business Journal Awards Banquet with the Lakes of Bird's Fort winning the 2006 Best Land Deal Award, the Arlington Highlands receiving the Best Retail Development Award, and the Glorypark mixed-use development near the Ranger’s Ballpark receiving the Best Announced Deal Award,” he said during his remarks.

“Two weeks later, Arlington earns a Vision Award from the Texas Subcontractors Association for the Dallas Cowboys Stadium project and the redevelopment of northeast Arlington. These awards send the message throughout Texas that Arlington is open for business.”
Wright has been a resident of Arlington since 1971. He was first elected to the City Council in May 2000.