NEWS
Mayor’s resolution to terrorist attacks reinstated by City Council
Looking for a print version?
Simply choose ‘Print’ on your computer and a printer-friendly document will be generated.
Also by Luke Runnoe:
- Dane County leads Wisconsin's anti-terrorism initiative (October 23, 2001)
- Mayor's resolution to terrorist attacks reinstated by City Council (October 16, 2001)
- City likely to raise downtown parking fees (October 10, 2001)
- City Council passes terrorist resolution act (September 25, 2001)
- Madison Health Department on top of city restaurants (August 31, 2001)
Related Stories:
- City Council passes terrorist resolution act (September 25, 2001)
- Congress resolves against terrorists (September 13, 2001)
- City council to vote on Patriot Act tonight (October 15, 2002)
- City discards impeachment idea (September 6, 2007)
- Council votes against slavery-reparations resolution (February 5, 2003)
by Luke Runnoe
Tuesday, October 16, 2001
Madison City Council members decided Tuesday night that they will not reconsider the wording of a resolution of support for victims of the Sept. 11 attacks.
Only two weeks after terrorist attacks struck a mighty blow to U.S. economic complacency and emotional stature, the Madison City Council fought a local battle over the separation of church and state.
At its Sept. 25 meeting, the council voted to amend Mayor Sue Bauman’s resolution statement of support to read “thoughts and sympathies” instead of the original “thoughts and prayers.”
Ald. Cindy Thomas, District 7, addressed the council.
“I made a mistake on Sept. 25, and now we have a chance to rectify our image,” Thomas said.
The general sentiment of the council was that bickering over the inclusion of religion in the mayor’s original statement was insensitive and brought issues of politics to the table that were absolutely unnecessary. Speakers cited the nation’s urgent and imperative need to band together in a time of undeniable hardship.
“The appropriate action for me to take on [Sept.] 25 was to reinforce without amendment the mayor’s resolution and to keep it from turning into a game of political football,” Thomas said.
Ald. Mike Verveer, District 4, said he thought Thomas deserved to address the council on what she called a mistake, but was glad no one else spoke on the matter.
“This had the potential to become an explosive, unfortunate debate similar to the school board meeting last night,” Verveer said. “With the advanced media coverage and this potential, I, along with half the council, thought it inappropriate to reopen debate on the topic.”
In a 10-9 vote, Thomas’ resolution was defeated; the council requires 11 votes to pass a resolution.
