A unanimous vote Tuesday approved Mayor Dave Cieslewicz’s nomination for a five-year term for Steven Cover as Director of Planning and Community and Economic Development.
Cieslewicz said in a statement the position is an incredibly important office for the city and he is confident Cover is the strongest individual to fill it. Cover will be succeeding Brad Murphy.
“[Cover’s] record in other jobs, his approach to issues, his feel for how to work with diverse groups, his easy manner and sense of humor all feel like the right fir for our community,” Cieslewicz said.
Cover has experience in community planning in Atlanta and cited specific projects as examples of his ideas for Madison. He said updated neighborhood plans were important as guides for future development.
In line with the recent political emphasis on job creation, Cover said he hopes to bring in high technology and biotechnical companies as well as other industries to create both skilled and unskilled jobs.
Cover said he hopes that by doing so, people will in turn be attracted to live in and start other companies in Madison, which he said would add to the tax base and enhance citizens’ quality of life.
Ald. Bridget Maniaci, District 2, said it was important to begin development soon, especially in the East Washington Avenue area with the city’s recent purchase of the Don Miller car lot.
The development on the corridor could start within just a few months because many properties have remained unchanged or deteriorating for years, Maniaci said.
Maniaci said the city has significant economic development needs and the City Council will be working closely with Cover’s office.
Maniaci added Madison should expand jobs and economic development to take advantage of opportunities with University of Wisconsin and Madison Area Technical College graduates wishing to stay in the area.
Cover also said transit and transportation were key elements in drawing companies to the area. He mentioned a 2009 program in Atlanta that used innovative ideas to generate revenue for the transit system without state or federal assistance.
Similar creative economic ideas would be used to generate funding for public services by means of grants or possible loans, Cover added.
Cover said in a statement Madison is nonetheless considered one of the most progressive cities in the country and making positive changes in the foreseeable future is possible.
“I’m just really very excited about working with the staff,” Cover said. “We’re not only going to do our job, but we’re going to make a difference.”
Cover has extensive experience in planning and development stemming from a number of previously held governmental positions and also has experience in the private sector.
He previously served as the Commissioner of the Department of Planning and Community Development for the City of Atlanta. His department received a number of awards on the state and national level for community planning initiatives and affordable housing programs.
Cover will officially take control of office next month.
