News

City awards memorial civility honors

Madison's City Council and Mayor Dave Cieslewicz will award the first annual Jeffrey Clay Erlanger Civility in Public Discourse Award to a Madison resident Tuesday.

The award, which will presented to a local civic leader, is dedicated to Jeffrey Erlanger, a lifelong quadriplegic who died June 10, 2007, at 36 from a choking-related incident. According to Pamela Erlanger, Jeffrey's mother and member of the Erlanger Award selection committee, Jeffrey was known for his kindhearted nature and devout efforts in making the city a better place — especially for those with disabilities.

"He involved himself in so many [of] what people would consider controversial issues, but yet he never really made an enemy," Pamela Erlanger said. "He had this way of bringing people together on issues."

George Twigg, communications director for Mayor Cieslewicz, said Jeffrey's pleasant demeanor and compromising tactics were always appreciated.

"The mayor always thought that Jeff was one of the most effective and civil people working in the city," Twigg said. Pamela Erlanger said the award was created to recognize other citizens in the community that follow Jeffrey's unique, civil approach while developing and advocating public policy.

"The mayor did this to encourage others to follow in his footsteps in terms of being civil when trying to accomplish public policy for Madison, and to commemorate his passionate, yet civil style in advocating," Pamela Erlanger said.

The award will be presented to nominee Dick Wagner, an accomplished civic leader in Madison. His past experience includes participation in the development of Period Garden Park, Monona Terrace and Olbrich Gardens, as well as service as a member in numerous Madison City Council committees.

"I think he and Jeff worked very similarly, and he accomplished so much because of his style," Pamela Erlanger said. "He was exactly what we were looking for. He has values and passion. And it sounds like Jeff would have loved him."

Pamela Erlanger said she is grateful for the city's decision to honor Jeffrey's compassionate attitude and willful dedication to civility in public service.

"We had just been so touched that the mayor and Common Council created this award because we couldn't think of a better way to memorialize Jeff and what he stood for," Pamela Erlanger said. "This has just been a wonderful thing for us and it sounds like it will be a wonderful thing for the Madison community."