Madison - Mayor Dave Cieslewicz announced today that nominations are now invited for the Jeffrey Clay Erlanger Civility in Public Discourse Award. The award was created to honor the memory of the late Jeff Erlanger who was committed to public service, focusing on constructive civil debate, fairness, openness, and effective representation.

"Jeff Erlanger was an individual of integrity, passion, intelligence, civility, and politeness," said Mayor Cieslewicz. "He understood that thoughtful and caring people could have very different ideas on how to best address our community's many complex issues and problems. At the same time, he was dedicated to the belief that people could disagree without being disagreeable. This award honors his commitment to that belief."

The Erlanger Award was created in September, 2007 to "recognize individuals or organizations who share Jeff Erlanger's dedication to and compassion for public policy development, politeness, civility, individual and human rights, and who conduct their daily life consistent with these values."

Erlanger served on the City of Madison's Economic Development Commission, chaired the Commission on People with Disabilities, chaired the Board of Directors of the Community Living Alliance and ran for the Madison Common Council in 2002. One of his greatest accomplishments was his successful push for the accessible taxicab service that exists in Madison today. Erlanger passed away in June, 2007.

The committee appointed to select the award recipient is comprised of a member or representative of the Erlanger family; a member of the Mayor's staff; the Common Council President; and two citizen members.

The award will be presented annually at a Common Council meeting close to the November 30 birthday of Jeff Erlanger. Nominations must be received in writing by November 15. Additional nomination information is provided on the nomination form.