Executive Director Jason Valerius carried on his tradition of meeting with CARPC Commissioners this month to welcome one of our newest additions, Regina Vidaver. Commissioner Vidaver is a City of Madison Alder representing District 5, Jason’s own district.
Jason and Regina met over coffee at the University Avenue Barriques to catch up on CARPC activities and community needs across our region. As City Council President, Regina has her finger on the pulse of Madison. She also brings a unique public health perspective to CARPC thanks to her professional role managing chronic disease and cancer prevention programs for the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS). Prior to serving on the Common Council, Regina was a resident member of Madison’s Food Policy Council, Healthy Retail Access Program, and the Regional Agriculture and Food Sovereignty Work Group.
Regina brings strong experience in program and budget management, compassionate leadership, health equity, and strategic planning to the Commission. Her introductory conversation with Jason covered the WI Salt Wise program and critical efforts to protect water quality by reducing road and water softener salt use. They also discussed opportunities to support urban ecosystems by incorporating pollinator-friendly plantings into green infrastructure installations, highlighting the multiple benefits these features can provide to communities. Commissioner Vidaver also has an interest in housing policy and community efforts to enable construction amid the regional housing crisis.
We’re thrilled to welcome Commissioner Vidaver to CARPC and look forward to working with her to strengthen the region by engaging communities through planning, collaboration, and assistance.
