In the last 30 years, the Austin Housing and Redevelopment Authority has contributed to numerous projects that made changes for the better.

And thanks largely to the leadership of executive director Kermit Mahan, these projects have not only been accomplished, but done in a way that has brought positive recognition to this community.

We don't have room to list everything Mahan and the HRA has left its mark on, but the list isn't short: the Holiday Inn convention center, Todd Park, Pickett Place, downtown renovations, flood cleanup projects and the Oak Park Mall.

There's plenty more on that list as well, which probably makes it even more remarkable on how the changes have helped keep and sustain business in and around Austin.

Mahan has said it's nice to see the agency has accomplished many things. But he has also made a good point that it wouldn't have been possible, thus far, without the backing of the community and its leaders.

That's a good point. Sometimes, communities can be too eager in wanting to accomplish new projects, without remembering to help sustain and invest in current buildings and businesses. The latter are just as vital, if not more, to help keep jobs and dollars flowing through this community.

Mahan said without that community backing, none of the HRA's work would have been possible.

That's true, but we'd also like to thank Mahan for his time and dedication these last 30 years.

In a few weeks, Mahan will step down from his post to take another job in Pasadena, Calif. We wish him well in his endeavors and can only hope his future successes are similar to what has happened with the HRA and the city of Austin.