By Roxana Orellana
rorellana@postbulletin.com
Former Austin City Administrator Patrick McGarvey was honored with his own maple tree Monday.
The Spruce Up Austin group presented McGarvey with the gift in thanks for his contributions to the city.
McGarvey, who served as city administrator for 11 years, retired in the early spring of this year.
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"Pat is someone who always looked at the beauty of things ... the reason for the dedication is to thank you for the work you did and the legacy you have left here," Mayor Bonnie Rietz said. "We will plant this tree not only for ourselves but our children, too."
McGarvey placed woodchips on the soil around the tree as friends, former co-workers and Spruce Up members cheered on.
Retirement is good, and he is continuously finding projects to work on, McGarvey said. He and his wife now live in Lakeville, Minn.
"To plant a tree in my name is really an honor and something that I really appreciate. It's very kind of them" McGarvey said.
Jerry Adwell, president of Spruce Up Austin, said the idea for the dedication originated from group member Mike Ruzek. "We discussed it and thought to be fitting and an honor to Pat's many years and contribution to the city. It's a nice occasion for it," Adwell said.
Spruce Up Austin's mission is to plant as many trees as possible in the city's public land as well as educate people on how to care for trees.
