The Speaker, on behalf of the entire membership of the House of Representatives, offered the following resolution:

            House Resolution No. 297.

            A resolution of tribute offered as a memorial for Curtis Hertel, former Speaker of the House of Representatives.

            Whereas, It is with great sadness that the members of this legislative body learned of the passing of Curtis Hertel. For eighteen years, he served the people of Michigan and his constituents in Detroit with tremendous energy, dignity, and integrity; and

            Whereas, Curtis Hertel was a native of Detroit and a proud alumnus of Wayne State University. He dedicated nearly two decades to the House of Representatives from 1981 to 1998, continuing his family’s tradition of public service, while also setting an example of citizenship for his children and grandchildren to follow; and

Whereas, Curtis Hertel is most often remembered for his role in the historic power sharing agreement between the parties. With the membership equally divided during the 87th Legislature, Hertel served with Paul Hillegonds as co-Speakers of the House. Many people believed the 55-55 split would lead to gridlock and chaos, but Hertel joined with Hillegonds to ensure the House of Representatives was able to pass substantive legislation; and

Whereas, Curtis Hertel’s leadership, passion, command of the issues, and trustworthiness during his time in the House of Representatives left a lasting impression. He worked hard to advocate on behalf of the people of Detroit and Michigan to expand the economy, improve education, and raise the minimum wage. In addition to his term as Co-Speaker of the House, he also held the position on his own from 1997 to 1998; and

Whereas, After leaving the House of Representatives, Curtis Hertel continued to serve. He spent time as the executive director of the Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority and as the deputy director of the Department of Energy, Labor and Economic Growth. Hertel was also known for offering guidance and wisdom to members of the Legislature even years after leaving office; and

Whereas, Curtis Hertel was a model public servant who cared deeply about improving the lives of everyone in Michigan. Upon his passing, we offer our condolences to his family and friends. We hope that they may find comfort in the knowledge that the community as a whole shares in their bereavement, and that the legacy of Curtis Hertel’s contributions will long continue to enrich our state; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we offer this expression of our highest tribute to honor the memory of Curtis Hertel, a member of this legislative body from 1981 to 1998; and be it further

            Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Hertel family as evidence of our lasting esteem for his memory.