Recognizing Gene Fisher and His Dedicated Service to the County of Ventura

Floor Speech

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Ms. BROWNLEY. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Gene Fisher, whose exceptional leadership and tireless advocacy as Co-Chair and Executive Director of the Regional Defense Partnership have strengthened Ventura County's defense community, bolstered our regional economy, and ensured that our military installations remain resilient and mission-ready. Under Gene's leadership, the Regional Defense Partnership has served as Ventura County's community-based organization supporting our military installations and commands as essential assets to our national security and key contributors to our local economy.

During periods of uncertainty and significant challenges, including threats of base realignment, downsizing, and evolving defense priorities, Gene was a steady and trusted leader who helped ensure that Naval Base Ventura County continued to thrive as the county's largest employer, generating an estimated $4.6 billion annually and supporting more than 24,000 military, civilian, and contractor jobs.

Throughout his tenure, Gene represented the interests of Naval Base Ventura County with distinction, communicating its needs and priorities to local government leaders, educational institutions, and business partners, while building enduring partnerships among military commands, public agencies, and the private sector. His deep commitment to both the base and our community is evident in his work to ensure that Ventura County's infrastructure, workforce, and expertise continue to meet the evolving demands of 21st century national defense.

Among his many accomplishments, Gene led the Regional Defense Partnership's efforts to expand Naval Base Ventura County from approximately 70 to 110 commands, helped secure funding and legislative support to enhance critical capabilities such as the Center for Maritime Directed Energy Testing, and worked to ensure that Ventura County remains at the forefront of advanced defense innovation and collaboration.

Of particular importance to me is Gene's genuine passion for fostering cooperation and partnership. In addition to his many other community-focused initiatives, he convened monthly joint military-- community meetings, creating an essential forum for dialogue, coordination, and mutual support among base leadership, local stakeholders, and elected officials.

As he steps down from this role, I am proud to join our community in recognizing Gene's 27 years of dedicated public service and his extraordinary contributions to preserving the defense, economic, and technological vitality of the County of Ventura.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great admiration and respect that I recognize Gene Fisher for his steadfast leadership and for the lasting impact he has had on our community.

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