Claudia Madsen: 1929 - 2007
A faithful reader and citizen stringer passed along some sad news today. Community activist Claudia Madsen passed away on Sunday morning after a short battle with liver and pancreatic cancer. I am told that even in the last week when she realized her life was coming to an end -- she insisted on talking about matters close to her heart: the General Plan Update, building height limits and view preservation. Claudia has been an active board member of Citizens Planning Association for longer than anyone can remember and although I do not know -- would not be surprised if she had been a founding member of the organization. I am told that donations can be made in her name.
Claudia is one of the reasons Santa Barbara is such a beautiful city and has that sense of place which makes us all want to stay here despite the challenges. She was a wonderful woman and will be missed.
Claudia is one of the reasons Santa Barbara is such a beautiful city and has that sense of place which makes us all want to stay here despite the challenges. She was a wonderful woman and will be missed.
Labels: Claudia Madsen, CPA
posted by Sara De la Guerra | 4/17/2007 10:42:00 PM
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6 Comments:
One of the original "old women in tennis shoes", Claudia has given much to our community -- may you rest in peace.
Here's to you Claudia--- I can only trust that there are "future Claudias" now gracing the sidewalks and parks of Santa Barbara. If not, we're in trouble. Though I only met you a few times, I learned so much from you. Your persistence not only on achieving "victories" before elected bodies, but on helping people--average people---to understand the complexities and importance of planning policies is a priceless gift you gave this community. I noticed in the INdependent last month, you spoke of the need for the downtown and El Pueblo Vieja in particular to lower building heights. I suggest to my fellow citizens--- let's advocate for the El Pueblo Vieja Claudia Madsen Height limitation ordinance.
In the meantime Claudia, thanks for inspiring another generation of activists on the South Coast.
I never had the chance to meet Claudia, but she sounds like an amazing woman.
Young people take note: Get active in your community! Sadly, there will be others that will pass and who will be there to follow through with all the hard work and dedication these activists have done?
Claudia "Standfast" Madsen did as much as anyone to shape what Santa Barbara looks like today. She was an inspiration to work with and watch.
Preserving public views and Santa Barbara's small town feel and openness is her enduring legacy.
The next time you walk around Santa Barbara and look at the breathtaking views of the mountains or ocean think of Claudia Madsen.
Hopefully others will fill the tremendous void she has left so that our children and grandchildren will be able to enjoy the incredible quality of life that we all share in.
She was an inspiration, much more than she, quite unassuming - except, of course, when she spoke before the Council or the NPO committee - knew, I think.Actually, she remains an inspiration.
As for the El Pueblo Viejo height limitation, such an ordinance as 7:10 above suggests, would be a fine memorial. The issue will be brought up before the City Council. Let's hope they respond to this and put it on the ballot.
Sara, I think you have her age dates wrong: I think she was 85 and therefore it would be 1922-2007.
May we all be as strong in spirit as she, frail though she was physically the last year or so, and be as selfless in working for the benefit of all rather than the few.
NB: I've changed my alias to SB City watcher since another "city watcher" also posts.
Claudia was rightfully appalled by the monster buildings being erected on Chapala. We're being sold the bill of goods that somehow this will provide some affordable housing. Well, check this Craigslist posting out----already theyr'e advertising a 2-bedroom rental for $3495.00 !?!?!? Yea, gee I wonder what income-level will occupy that.....
http://santabarbara.craigslist.org/apa/314539833.html
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