Gov. Bill Ritter announced today he has named former state Rep. Alice Madden as Colorado
"Alice Madden has distinguished herself as one of Colorado Colorado
The $80,000 position is funded through private grants from the Hewlett, Denver and Energy foundations.
"I'm extremely honored to serve in this position and help our region combat the broad effects of climate change," said former House Majority Leader Madden. "Climate change is taking its toll in every corner of Colorado
"Farmers, ranchers and the ski industry are concerned about winter snowpack. Citizens are worried about rising energy costs. Commuters are concerned about efficient and affordable transportation choices, and we all are worried about the future of our forests, air and water," Madden said.
"One of the most exciting aspects to this challenge is that almost every solution has the added benefit of creating jobs. In these tough economic times, I can't think of a better win-win for us all," Madden said.
"Alice Madden has a well-developed reputation as a fair and reasonable legislator," said Roy Palmer, Xcel Energy's managing director for government and regulatory affairs. "We're sure she'll bring those same skills to bear on the issue of climate change."
Madden served in the state legislature from January 2001 to January 2009, the last four years as House majority leader. She was instrumental on energy issues, including co-sponsoring legislation in 2007 that doubled the state's renewable energy standard. She served on the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee and garnered a reputation as a lawmaker who could unite opposing parties and find common ground and common-sense solutions.
Madden earned her bachelor's degree from the University of Colorado at Boulder
