In these modern times, many of us have found that our capacity to experience that which used to inspire has been lessened. The exaggerated “this and that” with the daily hyperbole of all that the internet can bring has taken a toll on our ability to be impressed. It is perhaps for that reason that when something notable occurs, a thoughtful and deliberate effort should be made to take note. Such an effort is merited for the recent passing of former Mayor and City Councilor Jim Lewis.
Jim was a man of many talents, rightly recognized as a husband, father, teacher, sailor, engineer, US Navy captain, attorney, City Councilor, Mayor and occupant of more volunteer positions than we have room to print in this space. The very well-done article by City Councilor Mike McClain published in the April 2019 edition of the Jacksonville Review that’s reprinted in this issue, provides a broader appreciation of Mr. Lewis’ lengthy list of achievements. It was my pleasure to meet Jim at the Mustard Seed Café, enjoying lunch with his talented and intelligent better half, Gayle. Jim and Gayle were always kitted-out in the style you would expect of professionals who had worn the uniform for years, knew what an ironed pleat looks like, and the use of a comb and brush. They were, to turn a phrase, relentlessly fastidious.
Later, it would be my pleasure and honor to serve with Jim on the Jacksonville City Council where I realized the impact of a man committed to significance. For years to come, I had the honor of watching Jim at work and in any sort of civic situation one might imagine, where he always acquitted himself very well. Jim rarely spoke first during deliberations but once he had spoken, his position was rarely contested. Jim served on numerous committees and commissions where his views were always well-regarded and his opinion often the deciding vote. Jim accomplished all this without raising his voice, without pounding the table, without theatrics of any sort… because those that served with him knew that Jim always wanted only one thing. He wanted what was best for the people without regard to agenda.
For Jim Lewis, it was always about the people. In this day of ideology run riot, it may be difficult to imagine a man who always put the people first but that is exactly what I saw Jim Lewis do time after time for years. Where does a man like Jim come from and when can we expect another to fill the sizable vacancy that his passing has left? Only God knows. What we do know is that a man of great capacity has left a sizable and enduring legacy of service that has benefited us all. You will allow me to publicly thank the remarkable Mr. Lewis here for his excellent example of significance in the service of others.
Brad Bennington is the Executive Officer for Builders Association Southern Oregon and a 50-year veteran of the construction industry. He also serves as a Jackson County Planning Commissioner, Board Member of the American Planning Association of Oregon, NAHB National Director and is a past Jacksonville City Councilor and current member of the Jacksonville Budget Committee.