The Congressional Record is a unique source of public documentation. It started in 1873, documenting nearly all the major and minor policies being discussed and debated.
“IN RECOGNITION OF THOMAS WILLIAMS, STATE DIRECTOR OF USDA RURAL DEVELOPMENT--PENNSYLVANIA” mentioning the U.S. Dept of Agriculture was published in the Extensions of Remarks section on pages E24 on Jan. 5, 2017.
The Department is primarily focused on food nutrition, with assistance programs making up 80 percent of its budget. Downsizing the Federal Government, a project aimed at lowering taxes and boosting federal efficiency, said the Department implements too many regulations and restrictions and impedes the economy.
The publication is reproduced in full below:
IN RECOGNITION OF THOMAS WILLIAMS, STATE DIRECTOR OF USDA RURAL
DEVELOPMENT--PENNSYLVANIA
______
HON. MATT CARTWRIGHT
of pennsylvania
in the house of representatives
Thursday, January 5, 2017
Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Thomas Williams, State Director of U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development for Pennsylvania. Appointed to the USDA by President Obama in July 2009, Mr. Williams will retire from federal service on January 7, 2017.
As State Director for Pennsylvania, Mr. Williams was responsible for securing loans, grants, loan guarantees and technical assistance offered through 40 Rural Development housing, utility and business programs. Mr. Williams managed 106 employees and 9 regional offices across Pennsylvania, as well as the state office in Harrisburg. During his seven years with the USDA, Rural Development invested over $5 billion in Pennsylvania infrastructure.
Prior to his tenure with the USDA, Mr. Williams served as a congressional aide to former U.S. Congressman Paul Kanjorski. Mr. Williams also worked with several communities in Pennsylvania and New York to assist local development and economic development efforts. Mr. Williams is a graduate of Wilkes University and received his Master's degree from Bloomsburg University. He currently resides in Mountain Top with his wife, Nancy.
It is an honor to recognize Thomas Williams for his service to our country, and I wish him all the best in his retirement.
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