IN SR0108

Honors Stephen J. Luecke, South Bend's longest-serving mayor, who served nearly 15 years from January 1997 through January 1, 2012, after initially being appointed to complete Joe Kernan's unexpired term

Recognizes Luecke's leadership in transforming South Bend's economy from manufacturing to technology, including creating Indiana's first dual-site certified technology park and securing a $50 million municipal commitment for commercialization efforts

Acknowledges neighborhood revitalization achievements that earned two National League of Cities Gold Awards (2002 and 2010) and a White House Preserve America Community designation in 2008

Credits Luecke with overseeing construction or renovation of numerous public facilities including fire stations, police headquarters, Public Works Service Center, and Studebaker National Museum while achieving a 39% reduction in major crime

Highlights environmental initiatives earning South Bend the Indiana Green Community of the Year designation in 2009 and national Bicycle Friendly Community status