Fiscal Note
No fiscal impact.
Title
To commend Edward A. Jepsen for his years of volunteer service in support of the Yahara River Bike Path and restoring the Yahara River Parkway.
Body
Preamble
Edward A. Jepsen, since 1985, has been steadfastly promoting the improvement of the Yahara River Parkway. Ed is an active citizen and volunteer who has been dedicated to the vision of a bike path along the River with underpasses of East Johnson Street and East Washington Avenue, and to the restoration of the historic landscape design of the Parkway. He has used his administrative, planning and communication skills to support completion of the Yahara River Parkway. Ed has been a valuable liaison between City and State staff, the Marquette and Tenney -Lapham Neighborhoods, the Urban Open Space Foundation, the Friends of the Yahara River Parkway, Alders, Boards and Commissions. His effectiveness in this role has helped to build consensus support for the bike path and restoration projects that are compatible with the historic 1906 plans for the Yahara River and Tenney Park.
WHEREAS, Over many years Ed Jepsen has followed the Parkway improvements through the Madison planning and approval process, attending hundreds of meetings. Ed’s persistence in mobilizing public support has helped to complete the path that now links two neighborhoods and allows children to walk and bike to neighborhood schools; and
WHEREAS, As one of the founders and board members of the Friends of the Yahara River, established in 1999, Ed Jepsen has consistently been able to bring people together to support the Yahara River Parkway. While familiar with the parkway plans on paper, Ed’s professional experience as a field biologist gives him a great understanding of the natural resources at the heart of the plan. He has been a chief organizer and crew leader on many volunteer projects completed by the Friends. His knowledge and abilities in natural area management have been invaluable in attracting volunteers, completing projects and educating people about the Parkway; and
WHEREAS, Ed’s long-term commitment and diligence is an outstanding example of the type of citizen activism that has provided major support for the Madison Park System from its inception as the Park and Pleasure Drive Association.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that this resolution commends Edward A. Jepsen for his years of volunteer service with private groups, neighborhood organizations and public committees in support of the Yahara River Bikepath, and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Ed Jepsen be commended for his hours of volunteer service in restoring and maintaining the historic landscape of the Yahara River Parkway and Tenney Park.
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED That a copy of this Resolution be framed and given to Ed Jepsen in recognition of and commendation for his service to the City.