Fernandina Beach recognizes Sam and Judith Lane for their civic involvement

Submitted by Suanne Z. Thamm

Reporter - News Analyst

September 18, 2017 10:00 a.m.

At the September 5, 2017 Regular Meeting of the Fernandina Beach City Commission (FBCC), Mayor Robin Lentz delivered a Proclamation declaring the city’s gratitude to Mr. and Mrs. Sam and Judith Lane for their combined 25 years of volunteer service. Lentz noted, “Through their leadership, hard work, and advocacy for aeronautical and planning programs and activities, they have enhanced opportunities for residents of the City to achieve a greater quality of life and live in a sustainable community.”

Sam Lane listens as Mayor Lentz reads a proclamation expressing the city's gratitude to him and his wife, Judith Lane.

Sam Lane accepted the Proclamation and delivered apologies from his wife Judith who was unable to attend due to illness. He said, “As you will have noticed, about 3/4ths work the Mayor cited was done by Judith. I am just an ‘airport rat.’ Thank you for your support for both of us as we did what we could to help the community.”

Lane left the podium to audience applause.

Judith Lane in her previous role as Planning Advisory Board Vice Chair.

Since 1987, Ms. Judith Lane has been a valued and well-respected member of the following advisory boards, committees and sub-committees: Planning Advisory Board, where she served as Chair and Vice Chair; Land Development Code and Tree Protection Working Group; Sustainable Fernandina; Port Master Plan Update subcommittee; Hazardous Materials subcommittee; 8th Street Improvement Group subcommittee; Development in the Floodplain subcommittee; Tree and Landscape Exemption subcommittee; Airport Welcome Center Planning Committee; and the Telephone Equipment Assessment Committee.

Mrs. Lane was a founding member of the Fernandina Beach Police FoundationBoard of Directors where she helped formulate its mission and policies that guide decision making to this day.

She also provided a professional assessment of the Information TechnologyDepartment workflow that resulted in reorganization and dramatically improved efficiencies.

Since October 2011, Mr. Sam Lane was an esteemed and highly regarded member of the City’s Airport Advisory Committee, which he also chaired. Mr. Lane could always be relied upon to provide knowledgeable, educated, honest and direct communication and recommendations to the City of Fernandina Beach City Commissioners as well as to other airport constituents and professionals. Mr. Lane’s professional contributions to the Airport Advisory Committee have helped shape the future of the City of Fernandina Beach Municipal Airport.

The Lanes have moved to Jacksonville, but they continue serving as volunteers for the USO at Jacksonville International Airport.

Editor's Note: Suanne Z. Thamm is a native of Chautauqua County, NY, who moved to Fernandina Beach from Alexandria,VA, in 1994. As a long time city resident and city watcher, she provides interesting insight into the many issues that impact our city. We are grateful for Suanne's many contributions to the Fernandina Observer.