Mayor Dave Cieslewicz took a ride on a garbage truck Wednesday in an attempt to stay connected with the city.
One of several events in past weeks as part of the mayor's effort to become more involved with Madison and the way it is run.
In recent months, Cieslewicz has ridden along police in the troubled Allied Drive area, played taxi driver for a day and stood in as a parking attendant at a city lot.
According to spokesperson George Twigg, Cieslewicz participated in Wednesday's ride-along to get a first-hand look at how essential services are being provided in Madison.
UW-Madison freshman Ryan Huibregtse said the mayor's recent efforts could be a ploy for public approval, but added the events were worthwhile.
Whether or not this is for political reasons, it's good that the mayor is going out and learning about the town that he governs,\ Huibregtse said. ""He's trying to show that he's caring.""
Lauren Adams, another UW-Madison freshman, applauded the mayor's efforts.
""I don't see that as pandering,"" Adams said of Cieslewicz's ride-along. ""He was just making a statement on something he believes in by going on the garbage truck.""
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