SOUTH PADRE ISLAND — Mayor Barry Patel sent a message to the Cunningham family asking for their permission to rename City Hall after their patriarch.
Paul Y. Cunningham, Jr. could share stories about riding over to the Island and much, much more.
He had stories about the planning of the Island and stories when he defended the Island from being annexed to Port Isabel.
This week the Island will rename City Hall after Cunningham for his leadership and guidance he provided to the city’s growth.
He went on to become the SPI’s first and only city attorney until he passed away earlier this year.
“Mr. Cunningham has been an instrumental part of the City for more than 40 years,” said Susan Guthrie, SPI city manager. “This building will serve as a permanent tribute to his service to our community.”
The City of South Padre Island invites the public to the building dedication ceremony in honor of his dedication and contribution to the city.
The ceremony is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 14 at 10 a.m. at City Hall located at, 4601 Padre Blvd.
“It’s our small way of showing our appreciation for all the work he has done for the city of South Padre Island,” Patel said. “He was an outstanding city attorney and had guided the city through many trials and tribulations through the years.”
Cunningham served as the city attorney since South Padre Island’s incorporation in 1973, to February 2017.
Cunningham, 74, died after a short battle with pancreatic cancer.
Cunningham was first diagnosed in October 2016.
He served on the planning and zoning board prior to becoming the city attorney, a post he held for more than 40 years.
“He was a one-of-a-kind man and attorney,” Bob Pinkerton, former SPI mayor, said in an earlier interview. “I served 22 years with him on the council.”
Pinkerton said there was no one better to help guide the city leaders.
“He knew how to put issues and problems into perspective,” Pinkerton said. “He’s going to be missed by many.”
IF YOU GO
WHAT: City of SPI to host dedication ceremony
WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 14 at 10 a.m.
WHERE: City Hall located at 4601 Padre Blvd.
WHY: SPI’s City Hall Complex will be named after the Island’s first City Attorney, Paul Y. Cunningham, Jr.
Paul York Cunningham, Jr. was born on Nov. 25, 1942, in Brownsville. He died on Feb. 27, 2017.
His passions in life were his family and his work, where his generosity knew no bounds. He embraced his role as a counselor, providing sage advice to both his loved ones and clients. He enjoyed traveling with his immediate and extended family, and sharing new and unique experiences.
He practiced law for more than 50 years and served faithfully as South Padre Island’s city attorney since its incorporation, which he oversaw. His impact was felt in the banking, municipal, business and real estate community. His colleagues knew him as strong-willed, fair, and honest.
