85R18884 CJM-D
 
  By: Gooden H.R. No. 2250
 
 
 
R E S O L U T I O N
         WHEREAS, Jody Lay is retiring as chief of the Terrell Police
  Department on May 31, 2017, drawing to a close an outstanding tenure
  in that position that has spanned eight years; and
         WHEREAS, Since Jody Lay became chief in 2009, the city of
  Terrell has seen its crime rate decrease by 45 percent; Chief Lay
  contributed to this accomplishment by strengthening police
  protocols and best practices, enhancing the department's
  technology, and partnering with other agencies in Kaufman and
  Dallas Counties as well as with the U.S. Department of Justice;
  moreover, he played a crucial role in establishing the first
  forensic unit in Kaufman County, and he oversaw the construction of
  the new police headquarters; and
         WHEREAS, In retirement, Chief Lay plans to pass on the
  knowledge and wisdom he has acquired during his years in law
  enforcement by teaching college-level criminal justice courses;
  and
         WHEREAS, Chief Lay's dedication, professionalism, and
  commitment to protecting and serving the public have greatly
  benefited the residents of Terrell, and he may indeed reflect with
  pride on his exceptional record of achievement as he embarks on the
  next exciting chapter of his life; now, therefore, be it
         RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 85th Texas
  Legislature hereby congratulate Jody Lay on his retirement as the
  Terrell chief of police and extend to him sincere best wishes for
  the future; and, be it further
         RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
  prepared for Chief Lay as an expression of high regard by the Texas
  House of Representatives.