IRVING, Texas — Former Irving Mayor Rick Stopfer was recognized Thursday evening for more than three decades of public service during the June 25 Irving City Council meeting.
Stopfer, who served as Irving's mayor from 2017 to 2026, was honored by local, state, and federal leaders for his contributions to the city over the past 34 years.
Video displayed at City Council meeting
U.S. Congressman Marc Veasey recognized Stopfer on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives, with the tribute entered into the Congressional Record of the 119th Congress.
"I rise today to recognize my good friend, Rick Stopfer, for more than three decades of dedicated service to the City of Irving as Mayor," Veasey said. "Mayor Stopfer's commitment to public service, leadership, and the Irving community has left a lasting impact. We are grateful for his years of service and the example he set through his dedication and integrity."
Texas State Representatives Cassandra Garcia Hernandez, Rafael Anchía, and Terry Meza presented Stopfer with an official State of Texas resolution recognizing his service.
Irving City Secretary Shanae Jennings Conley presented Stopfer with a commemorative book containing photographs and handwritten messages from Irving residents. Newly elected Irving Mayor Al Zapanta and Farmers Branch Mayor Terry Lynne also presented him with the Irving City Service Award.
"I was humbled by the recognition for my 34 years of public service to the City of Irving," Stopfer said in a statement. "Thank you for your heartfelt kind words, which are greatly appreciated."
During his years of public service, Stopfer served in numerous leadership roles, including:
- Mayor of Irving (2017–2026)
- 14 years on the Irving City Council
- Six years on the Irving Planning and Zoning Commission
- Seven years on the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) Board
- Six years on the Regional Transportation Council
- Ten years with Transportation Excellence for the 21st Century (TEX-21)
- Eight years on the Dallas Regional Mobility Coalition
- Five years on the Irving Flood Control District No. 3 Board
- Twenty years on the Valley Ranch Association Board
City officials praised Stopfer's decades of leadership and service, noting his contributions to transportation, infrastructure, and the continued growth of the Irving community.
