BILL ANALYSIS

Senate Research Center	S.C.R. 8
	By: Hughes
	Committee To Be Determined | Never Referred
	6/21/2019
	Enrolled

AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

The Honorable James R. Cowart retired as justice of the peace for Smith County Precinct 5 on December 31, 2018, concluding a noteworthy tenure that spanned 27 years.

First elected in 1991, Judge Cowart demonstrated exceptional dedication to his responsibilities, and he skillfully guided the court as it grew to meet the needs of the community. It once shared a small building with the precinct constable's office and today occupies a 6,000-square-foot complex with a staff of five clerks.

Judge Cowart has completed more than 600 hours of continued education in a wide range of subjects related to the justice court, including civil, traffic, criminal, and juvenile law. He is a member of the Justice of the Peace and Constables Association of Texas and of the Texas Justice Court Judges Association, which named him 2014 Judge of the Year. In addition, he is a lifetime member and former president of the East Texas Justice of the Peace and Constables Association.

Deeply committed to his community, Judge Cowart sits on the board of the Lindale Area Chamber of Commerce, and he previously served as its president. He is also a member of the Mt. Sylvan and Lindale Masonic Lodges and a deacon at Central Baptist Church. A former president of the Lindale Athletic Booster Club, he remains an avid Lindale Eagles fan. He is supported in all his endeavors by the love and encouragement of his wife, Brenda Boaz Cowart, and he is the proud father of two sons, Justin and Jody, and grandfather of Ryan, Dryver, and Fielder.

Judge Cowart has greatly benefited his fellow citizens through his leadership, professionalism, and commitment to excellence, and he may indeed reflect with satisfaction on a career well spent.

RESOLVED

That the 86th Legislature of the State of Texas honor James R. Cowart for his outstanding service as justice of the peace for Smith County Precinct 5 and extend to him sincere best wishes for the future.

That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Judge Cowart as an expression of high regard by the Texas Senate and House of Representatives.