Ralph Lauro, the Vice-Chairman of the Planning Commission died suddenly while on a consulting assignment for DuPont. He died on July 10th in Los Angeles. Ralph was one of those rare persons who spent their whole working career with a single company, DuPont, where he was held in highest esteem. Ralph brought this same level of dedication to his duties as a Planning Commissioner in Foster City.
Ralph and his family lived in Foster City many years ago, and following a successful career during which DuPont moved him to a number of different locations, Ralph and his wife chose to return to Foster City as their permanent home. His DuPont overseas assignments included Europe and South America. Ralph applied for an open position on the Planning Commission and was appointed to the Planning Commission on 3 January 2000 by the City Council. Ralph added his broad experience and knowledge to our Planning Commission.
Each of our five Planning Commissioners brings value and good common sense to the Commission. Each also brings their special and unique qualifications to the table in every decision the Planning Commission is required to make. Ralph Lauro?s special contribution was based on his long-term service as an engineer and product manager with DuPont.
Great Companies are made up of Great People, and Ralph was such a man. His chemical process engineering skills were based on thorough analysis and outstanding leadership ability accomplished with quiet modesty and great dignity.
Ralph was greatly respected by and worked well with his colleagues on the Planning Commission. This was particularly evident as the Planning Commission prepared a new Housing Element for the Foster City General Plan. As a result, Foster City was the first City in San Mateo County to submit and have the State approve this important element of the City?s General Plan. Ralph also made major contributions to Foster City?s build out through his attention to detail and active contribution to the following projects:
Planning and approval of Parkside Towers
Construction and completion of Marlin Cove
Construction and completion of Miramar Apts.
Planning and land use approval for the PJCC
Planning and land use for Bridgeview Academy
Planning of our new Civic Center Buildings
Permit review for many home improvements.
Ralph and his family are private people who shun publicity. He was highly respected by the City Council, his Planning Commission colleagues, and the City Staff. He earned the respect and appreciation of all who followed his thoughtful, clear, and concise actions on the Planning Commission. Ralph would have preferred to ?keep his light under the bushel? as an saying goes. But Quiet and Noble Men cannot hide their contributions. Such men deserve our appreciation.
Thank You Ralph Lauro.
print 