Denver City Council lost one of their most vibrant members as District 8 Councilwoman Carla Madison lost her battle with cancer late Tuesday. Madison was elected in June 2007 and known for her bold style and outlook on life. She was passionate about neighborhoods and strengthening the community spirit of her East-Denver district. An ardent environmentalist, Carla was often seen riding around town on her cruiser bike or jetting to Council meetings on her orange scooter, sporting a colorful hat and a warm smile.In her work as a Councilwoman, she carried on the District 8 community traditions of the Hiawatha Davis Senior Luncheon and the King Trimble Tea. She started her own tradition, hosting an old-fashioned Ice Cream Social in City Park each summer, complete with historic costumes and activities. Adoption of the City's new zoning code in 2010 was due in large part to her efforts to shepherd the massive overhaul through the political process, while being attuned to the needs of Denver's business and neighborhood organizations.
Statement from Denver City Council President Chris Nevitt: "On behalf of the Denver City Council, we are deeply saddened by the loss of our colleague Carla Madison. Her spirit and love of the Denver community was unparalleled and Carla's passionate, selfless and considerate voice is a great loss for the City. Our love and support is with her husband Paul Weiss and her family in this time of deep sorrow."
Statement from Denver Mayor Guillermo (Bill) Vidal: "Carla was a dear friend who always had a warm smile and a kind word to share, and in turn, her positive energy and attitude brought happiness to others. She was a true and tireless champion for the many and diverse issues brought forward by her constituents in Council District 8, as well as a steadfast supporter of city-wide economic development and an outspoken advocate for the arts. Never too busy to take a moment to discuss an issue or a concern, Carla was known for her kind and selfless spirit. Carla will be greatly missed at City Hall but never forgotten in our thoughts. May peace be with her loved ones at this time of their loss."
Madison, a physical therapist prior to becoming an elected official, was a graduate of Marycrest High School, obtained a bachelor's degree from the University of Colorado in cartography, and a Master's of Physical Therapy from Boston University. Madison is survived by her husband Paul Weiss. The couple was well-known for their creative holiday greeting cards and love of their dogs.
Services for Madison are pending and will be posted on the Denver City Council website when available at www.denvergov.org/CityCouncil
