Floor SpeechBipartisan2026-07-09

CELEBRATING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF PAUL ROBERTS

EnvironmentCrime & JusticeInfrastructure

Context

On 2026-07-09, Representative Rick Larsen (D-WA-2) delivered a floor speech titled "CELEBRATING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF PAUL ROBERTS" in the House.

Full Text

CELEBRATING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF PAUL ROBERTS

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 112 (Thursday, July 9, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 112 (Thursday, July 9, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E655] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] CELEBRATING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF PAUL ROBERTS _____ HON. RICK LARSEN of washington in the house of representatives Thursday, July 9, 2026 Mr. LARSEN of Washington. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Paul Roberts, a dedicated public servant, environmental advocate, policy expert, musician and proud resident of Everett, Washington. Sadly, Paul passed away on June 24, 2026 after a courageous battle with cancer. Paul Roberts was instrumental in making Everett the city it is today. His legacy can be seen in the fabric of everyday life in Everett--in its environmental plans, transportation investments, schools, arts and music scene and in its future light rail system. Whether as a city planner, policy consultant, representative for regional boards or as a long-time member of the Everett City Council, Paul used his extraordinary talents to serve the people of Everett and the greater Puget Sound region. From a deep passion for protecting our cherished environment, to his foresight on bringing the naval base to Everett, Paul was the embodiment of what a lifelong public servant is. Even after leaving the City Council, he continued his work in public service for my office, ensuring that local communities benefited from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. His knowledge of local government and unwavering focus on delivering results helped Northwest Washington communities access critical resources to build a cleaner, greener, safer and more accessible transportation network. Paul was one of the kindest, most dedicated and hardworking people I have ever known. He was an amazing mentor and inspiration for the members of my staff that were lucky enough to work with him. He had a real gift for bringing people together to seek common ground and solve tough problems. Mr. Speaker, Paul Roberts' impact on Everett and Northwest Washington is immeasurable. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring his remarkable service, celebrating his legacy, and extending our deepest condolences to his wife, Marianne, their family and all who were fortunate to know and work alongside him. ____________________

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CELEBRATING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF PAUL ROBERTS Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 112 (Thursday, July 9, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 112 (Thursday, July 9, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E655] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] CELEBRATING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF PAUL ROBERTS _____ HON. RICK LARSEN of washington in the house of representatives Thursday, July 9, 2026 Mr. LARSEN of Washington. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Paul Roberts, a dedicated public servant, environmental advocate, policy expert, musician and proud resident of Everett, Washington. Sadly, Paul passed away on June 24, 2026 after a courageous battle with cancer. Paul Roberts was instrumental in making Everett the city it is today. His legacy can be seen in the fabric of everyday life in Everett--in its environmental plans, transportation investments, schools, arts and music scene and in its future light rail system. Whether as a city planner, policy consultant, representative for regional boards or as a long-time member of the Everett City Council, Paul used his extraordinary talents to serve the people of Everett and the greater Puget Sound region. From a deep passion for protecting our cherished environment, to his foresight on bringing the naval base to Everett, Paul was the embodiment of what a lifelong public servant is. Even after leaving the City Council, he continued his work in public service for my office, ensuring that local communities benefited from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. His knowledge of local government and unwavering focus on delivering results helped Northwest Washington communities access critical resources to build a cleaner, greener, safer and more accessible transportation network. Paul was one of the kindest, most dedicated and hardworking people I have ever known. He was an amazing mentor and inspiration for the members of my staff that were lucky enough to work with him. He had a real gift for bringing people together to seek common ground and solve tough problems. Mr. Speaker, Paul Roberts' impact on Everett and Northwest Washington is immeasurable. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring his remarkable service, celebrating his legacy, and extending our deepest condolences to his wife, Marianne, their family and all who were fortunate to know and work alongside him. ____________________