Monday Morning Round Up 9/22/25

Seems like less to include this week . . . again, I think its the calm before the budget storm! Check out news articles on home page!

VOLUNTEER WITH PARKS

Get Involved – Your Madison Parks Adventure Starts Now!

Connecting with volunteer opportunities in Madison Parks has never been easier. Explore events, track your hours, and find roles that match your interests, from conservation projects to community events to hands-on park upkeep.

Create your profile today to browse by location, activity, or skill level and discover the perfect way to make an impact. Join a growing community of volunteers shaping and caring for the parks we all love.

Parks Volunteer Website

Volunteer Planting – Olbrich Park!

Join us at Olbrich Park, 3527 Atwood Ave., Nature Play area at Lakeland and Welch Ave, Madison, WI 53714 to help restore and maintain our natural landscapes with native plantings.

Dates and Times:
Friday, September 19, 2025 – 9:00am to 12:00pm
Saturday, September 20, 2025 – 9:00am to 11:00am
Saturday, September 20, 2025 – 11:00am to 1:00pm

Volunteers will plant and care for native species, prepare sites, and work with Parks staff and other volunteers. No experience is needed, training is provided, and volunteers should be comfortable outdoors, able to bend, kneel, and lift moderate weights. Tools and plants are provided, and volunteers should wear sturdy shoes, dress for the weather, and bring gloves if available. Check in with staff or a lead volunteer for instructions.

For more information, email John at: parksvolunteer@cityofmadison.com

Volunteer Planting Registration

Volunteer at The Glen

Exciting news for community-minded individuals! Join us as a volunteer at The Glen Golf Park in Madison, WI, on Saturday, September 27, from 8 to 10am, and every month thereafter on Saturdays. The Glen isn’t just a golf park—it’s a vibrant community space where nature and recreation unite. By volunteering, you can help beautify the park, manage and restore areas, and contribute to detailed gardening and landscaping tasks. It’s a fantastic opportunity to make a visible impact on our community’s green spaces while connecting with like-minded individuals.

No pre-registration required.

Upcoming Dates – All are Saturdays, 8 to 10am:

  • September 27 – Seed collection session, with on-site instruction provided
  • October 18 – Seed collection session, with on-site instruction provided
Volunteer Workdays at The Glen Registration

 

County Executive Agard’s E-Update – 09.12.25

Dear Dane County Residents,
It’s budget season in Dane County.

This week, the County Board held its first public hearings on the 2026 budget requests from county departments. These requests were shaped by the budget guidance I issued back in May, and the hearings are an important part of our budget process because they make sure community voices are front and center in how we set our priorities. That is also why I hosted a public listening session in June so we could begin this conversation early and hear directly from you.

County government touches the lives of every resident in Dane County. From public safety and behavioral health to parks, infrastructure, and housing, this budget provides the foundation for the services people rely on every day.

We face a $31 million structural deficit this year, making this one of the most challenging budgets in recent memory. My top priority has been, and will continue to be, fixing this deficit while maintaining our county workforce and ensuring we deliver the high quality services our community depends on.

These are difficult choices, but Dane County has a long tradition of coming together to meet challenges head on. We will continue to strengthen our workforce and partner agencies, invest in affordable housing, address climate change, protect our natural resources, and make sure taxes remain reasonable for families. I am grateful to our county employees, department leaders, and the County Board for their hard work and dedication to a transparent process that puts public input at the center.

What’s Next in the Budget Process:

By October 1: Executive Budget introduced to the County Board and the public

October and November: Each standing committee of the County Board will meet to review and discuss the parts of the budget relevant to their work. The full Board will then debate and adopt the 2026 budget before it returns to the County Executive’s desk for review.

Thank you for being part of this important process and for helping shape the future of Dane County.

In Service,

Melissa Agard
Dane County Executive

Budget Fundamentals: How Dane County’s Budget Works

To help you understand how your tax dollars are allocated, here’s a quick breakdown of Dane County’s budget structure:

Operating Budget

This portion covers the ongoing, day to day costs of running county government such as staff salaries, service contracts, operational supplies, and program support. It is what keeps our departments up and running all year long. The operating budget in 2025 was $813,035,159.

Capital Budget

This is used for long-term investments in infrastructure and physical assets like roads, building improvements, public facilities, and equipment. These are larger, one-time expenditures that help build or maintain the county’s foundational infrastructure. The capital budget in 2025 was $90,436,152.

By budgeting this way, Dane County ensures both our essential services get the steady support they need through the operating budget and that we continue investing in projects that shape our future through the capital budget. It is an approach that balances daily needs with long-term planning.

Dane County budgets on an annual basis rather than biennial like our Wisconsin state government.

Explaining a Structural Deficit
As we look ahead to 2026, Dane County is facing what’s called a structural deficit. That means the costs of our ongoing county operations are expected to rise faster than the revenues coming in (and what we’re allowed to collect under state law). In short, even though our community continues to grow, rising costs and state limits on property taxes and other revenues mean our budget can’t keep pace.

Note: the graphic above is just an example to visualize a structural deficit – not based on actual county data.

The 2025 budget shows how every dollar is already put to work – nearly 40% supports health and human services, more than one in five dollars goes to public safety and criminal justice, and the rest funds everything from roads and parks to conservation, debt payments, and general government. These investments keep our county running, but they leave very little wiggle room when revenues fall behind costs.

A structural deficit doesn’t mean Dane County has mismanaged its money – in fact, we’ve maintained strong reserves and a top credit rating. However, multiple factors including slowing sales tax revenue, increasing health insurance costs, and uncertain federal funding have made this upcoming budget particularly challenging. The bottom line is this: if we do not address our structural deficit now, we will continue to face the same situation next year.

My administration will keep residents informed and engaged as we work with the County Board and state leaders on solutions, because our goal remains the same – keeping Dane County a safe, healthy, and vibrant place to call home.

September is Hunger Action Month

This week I visited WayForward Resources as part of Hunger Action Month.

Hunger is not a faraway problem, it’s right here in Dane County. Over 12% of children in our community are food insecure, and WayForward is distributing more meals than at any other time in its 45-year history.

What I saw at WayForward was the strength of local community. From staff to volunteers to neighbors helping neighbors, WayForward reminds us that when times are tough, we pull together.

As your County Executive, I’m committed to working alongside partners like WayForward to build a future where no child, no family, and no individual has to wonder where their next meal will come from.

Together, we can take action against hunger.

Dane County Recognizes 2025 Climate Champions

This month, Dane County and our Office of Energy & Climate Change recognized 23 new Climate Champions for their leadership in reducing carbon emissions and advancing sustainability. You can see the full list HERE.

From energy-efficient buildings and electrified fleets to innovative waste diversion and sustainable land practices, these local leaders are showing how every sector of our community can contribute to a cleaner, healthier future.

The goals in our Dane County Climate Action Plan are ambitious – cutting countywide emissions in half by 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. We can only reach them with the commitment of residents, businesses, schools, nonprofits, faith organizations, and local governments working together. This year’s Climate Champions embody that collective effort.

I encourage you to explore the full list of 2025 Climate Champions and learn more about their achievements on the Office of Energy & Climate Change website.

More Affordable Housing Coming to Dane County

Another exciting affordable housing development is underway in Dane County!

Recently, we celebrated the groundbreaking of Kelly Station – a project that will bring 76 much-needed affordable units to our community. Housing is the foundation for everything else in life. Without safe, stable, and affordable housing, it’s harder to work, learn, care for family, and plan for the future.

That’s why Dane County invested more than $4 million to help make this development possible.

Kelly Station is about dignity and opportunity. It shares Dane County’s commitment to affordable housing and a promise that no family should have to wonder where they’ll sleep at night.

A huge thank you to Volker Development, our county staff, and all the community partners who made this milestone possible. Together, we’re building not just housing, but hope.

Medical Examiner’s Office Celebrates Summer Interns

This summer, the Dane County Medical Examiner’s Office had two interns from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville.

Throughout the summer, they shadowed our medicolegal investigators, assisted on scene investigations, assisted with taking cremation photographs at the local funeral homes and worked in the autopsy suite alongside the forensic pathologists and morgue technicians.

I am always inspired by young people in our community getting involved in our government!

Visit to the Village of Cambridge

A big thank you to County Board Supervisor Kerry Marren for showing me around the wonderful Village of Cambridge. We visited the beautiful CamRock County Park as part of my 25 for 25 Challenge.

And afterwards, I had the chance to sit down with local leaders to talk about everything happening in Cambridge – from the wonderful small businesses to the rich culture and tight-knit community spirit that make this village shine.

Partner with Dane County to Expand Affordable EV Charging

Charge Up Dane County is a federally-funded effort through the Dane County Office of Energy & Climate Change to expand affordable electric vehicle (EV) charging across Dane County. The program focuses on addressing gaps in current EV charging infrastructure – in multifamily neighborhoods, rural areas and multi-modal hubs.

The program has already identified 33 charging locations across Dane County. Check out the map to see where charging is already planned.

Now is your opportunity to apply to be an EV charging infrastructure site host.  The RFP opportunity is open to public and private entities with free public parking areas.

The deadline is 2 pm on Tuesday, September 30.  Learn more and access the application at https://www.daneclimateaction.org/Initiatives/Charge-Up-Dane-Co/Site-Host-for-EV-Charging.

Dane County is already a leader in EV registrations – this program will enable us to also lead on equitable access to affordable EV charging!

Remembering September 11th

On September 11, 2001, our nation endured unimaginable tragedy. Nearly 3,000 lives were lost, and countless families were forever changed. Yet in that moment of devastation, we came together as neighbors, as communities, as one people.

Firefighters, police officers, EMTs, and everyday people ran toward danger because saving lives mattered more than their own. Their courage and sacrifice revealed the very best of who we are.

This week, as we honored the lives lost and the heroes who stepped forward, let us also recommit ourselves to that same spirit of unity. Our country is strongest when we reject division and stand together, supporting one another, lifting each other up, and working for a better tomorrow.

We will never forget 9/11. And we will never stop honoring the selflessness it revealed in the American people.

In the News

Dane County Exec Agard Honors first responders at 9/11 Memorial

Wispolitics, 9.11.25

County accepting equity grant applications
Stoughton News, 9.11.25

Dane County Executive visits Cambridge to see park, local business
Leader Independent, 9.8.25

How a cabbage patch became the Dane County Regional Airport
Cap Times, 9.4.25

County accepting equity grant applications

Oregon Observer, 9.3.25

September is National Preparedness Month: How to stay ready for potential disasters

WKOW, 9.3.25

Dane County Executive Melissa Agard releases Labor Day statement honoring working people
WMTV, 9.1.25

McFarland celebrates $1.14 million in federal funds towards Public Safety Center
Leader Independent, 8.30.25

 

UNITED WAY SEEKS INPUT FOR PUBLIC POLICY AGENDA

United Way has shared a link with the group as they are seeking information on updates to their public policy agenda for the next two years (the current 2024-2025 agenda is attached).

Link to United Way Survey

Dane County Fair Housing Outreach — Letter from County Executive Attached

Dear Dane County Housing Partner,

We’re reaching out as part of our CDBG-DR grant requirements with the State of Wisconsin and our ongoing Fair Housing activities.

Attached is a letter from County Executive Melissa Agard reaffirming our shared commitment to fair, open, and equitable access to housing under the Fair Housing Act and Wis. Stat. § 106.50. The letter encourages all housing market participants—owners and property managers, real estate professionals, lenders and mortgage brokers, appraisers, insurers, developers and any housing professionals—to review policies and practices to ensure full compliance.

About CDBG-DR: Federal HUD funds, administered by the State of Wisconsin, to aid disaster recovery and strengthen housing. Dane County is using a portion to support affordable housing development in the City of Oregon, expanding safe, fair, and accessible options.

Thank you for your partnership and the daily work your teams do to uphold fair, consistent, and non-discriminatory housing in Dane County—we’re grateful for your continued support.

Sincerely,

Baltazar De Anda Santana

CDBG-HOME Program Specialist

Dane County Department of Human Services – Housing Access & Affordability

PROJECT UPDATES

Rutledge Street Reconstruction

Location: 1833 Rutledge St
Estimated Schedule: April 1, 2025 – July 29, 2025

September 18, 2025 Update

The Contractor did final paving last week and the street markings were painted yesterday. The work will continue on removing barricades and parking restrictions signs to open the road to the public. Also, City Operations and Capitol Underground are working on finishing lowering the sanitary structures on Yahara Place.

The City Inspector, Pual Lauby,  plauby@cityofmadison.com, 608-261-9678 and Troy Vant, tvant@cityofmadison.com, 608-266-4914. They will be the best on-site contact throughout construction work.

View project information

Dairy Dr Campground Demolition and Site Restoration

Location: 3202 Dairy Drive
Estimated Schedule: September 4, 2025 – May 29, 2026

September 19, 2025 Update

At the Tuesday, Sept. 16th Common Council meeting, the vote to extend the operations at Dairy Drive Campground fell short by one vote.  Public Works contract #9681 for demolition and restoration of the site remains active on Bid Express.  An addendum responding to questions received is expected to be published on Bid Express no later than next Tuesday, September 23rd.  Bids remain due on Thursday, September 25th.

View project information

John Nolen Drive Watershed Study

Location: 1202 Olin-Turville Court
Estimated Schedule: March 1, 2023 – December 31, 2025

September 17, 2025 Update

The Draft Final Watershed Study Report for the John Nolen Drive Watershed Study is now available for comment. Please review the report, and fill out the survey to provide public comment by 12 p.m., Oct. 20, 2025.

John Nolen Drive Watershed Study Draft Final Report
John Nolen Drive Watershed Study Draft Final Report Survey

View project information

Regent Street Reconstruction

Location: 1102 Regent Street
Estimated Schedule: March 1, 2027 – December 1, 2027

September 16, 2025 Update

Thank you to everyone who attended the Sept. 15, 2025 Public Information Meeting. The meeting materials are now available:

Sept. 15, 2025 Public Information Meeting Recording

Sept. 15, 2025 Public Information Meeting PowerPoint Presentation

View project information

Imagination Center at Reindahl Park

Location: 1818 Portage Road
Estimated Schedule: April 28, 2025 – July 31, 2026

September 15, 2025 Update

September 2025 Update
Construction progress remains on schedule and within budget at the Imagination Center at Reindahl Park. Major foundation work has been completed with significant progress on building infrastructure systems.

The project has reached important milestones with completed geothermal borings, site grading, and bio-filtration pond installation. Interior masonry work is advancing with three courses of concrete masonry units (CMU) now installed above grade on interior walls. Stone subgrade for building padding is in place, and the lightning protection system has been installed.

Current work focuses on underground utility systems. Interior under-slab rough-ins are underway alongside continued geothermal boring operations. Building electrical and plumbing rough-in work below grade is progressing to prepare for upcoming concrete slab pours.

The geothermal borings and piping installation represents a major milestone for site improvements. Continued plumbing and electrical system installation will position the construction team for productive fall and winter work phases.

Upcoming activities include decommissioning existing water and sanitary connections, installing new site utilities for storm, sewer, and water systems, and completing geothermal piping to the building. Under-slab insulation and radiant floor tubing installation will follow, leading to the interior slab pour.

Administrative efforts including submittals, coordination meetings, and material mockups continue on schedule. This coordination supports timely material and component ordering for upcoming construction phases.

The project maintains its timeline and budget targets as construction moves toward exterior wall and roof work and structural steel installation in the coming months.

View project information

Capital City Trail Storm Sewer Replacement

Location: 224 S Paterson St
Estimated Schedule: September 8, 2025 – November 15, 2025

September 15, 2025 Update

Detour notice signs will be placed on Sept.15 in advance of the path closure date of Sept. 22. The path will be detoured to E Main Street, between S Blount Street and S Brearly Street. One side of parking will be removed from E Main Street to accommodate the path detour route.

Tree removals will start Sept. 22 and storm sewer installation will start Sept. 29.

View project information

Dane County Board of Supervisors Welcomes New Youth Governance Program Members

Students from across Dane County recognized at Sept. 18 pinning ceremony

DANE COUNTY, Wis. — On Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025, the Dane County Board of Supervisors welcomed a new cohort of Youth Governance Program (YGP) members during a pinning ceremony at the beginning of the board’s regularly scheduled meeting. Fourteen high school students from Madison, McFarland, Middleton, Fitchburg, Sun Prairie, Verona, and Waunakee will serve on county board committees throughout the 2025–26 program term.

“I’m thrilled to welcome this new cohort of students from across Dane County to the Youth Governance Program. Through their service on our standing committees, they’ll gain first-hand experience with the challenging and complex decisions that shape county government, including work on the 2026 budget,” said County Board Chair Patrick Miles. “This kind of civic participation is invaluable — not only for the students, who will build leadership and problem-solving skills, but also for the county board, which benefits from their fresh perspectives.”

Each YGP member will serve with county board supervisors on one of six of the board’s standing committees from September through May 2026 and will partner with a supervisor or committee staff mentor. Members will take part in committee discussions, share perspectives on policy issues, and cast nonbinding advisory votes. They will also join monthly education sessions to strengthen their leadership, civic engagement, and professional skills.

“The Youth Governance Program is a valuable opportunity for high school students in Dane County to learn how county government works while providing valuable input into decision-making,” said Supervisor Henry Fries (Dist. 5), who is serving as a YGP mentor. “I look forward to working with and learning from these talented individuals during the forthcoming YGP term.”

Dane County Board of Supervisors Recognizes National Suicide Prevention Month

2025 theme is “Changing the Narrative on Suicide”

DANE COUNTY, Wis. — On Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025, the Dane County Board of Supervisors officially recognized September as Suicide Prevention Month throughout Dane County, raising awareness of the growing public health crisis of deaths by suicide in the United States. The board passed 2025 RES-155 to mark this observance.

Data from the U.S. National Institutes of Health show that deaths by suicide are increasing in Wisconsin and Dane County, with an average of 73 lives claimed by suicide each year in the county.

“This is a deeply personal issue for me,” said County Board Chair Patrick Miles. “Like so many others, I have a loved one who has struggled. I never want anyone to feel alone or without somewhere to turn in a time of crisis. It’s on all of us to break the stigma, raise awareness, and expand access to the life-saving care and support people deserve.”

This year’s observance theme, “Changing the Narrative on Suicide,” is a focus on transforming silence, stigma, and misunderstanding into openness, empathy, and support. Local organizations, including the Suicide Prevention and Harm Reduction Coalition of Dane County (SPHRC), are working to reduce preventable injuries and deaths by suicide through efforts such as the Zero Suicide Initiative, promoting the 988 Lifeline, expanding access to suicide prevention training, and encouraging community conversations.

“As community leaders, we have a responsibility not only improve access to and awareness of preventive resources and mental health treatment but also to cultivate a culture of empathy, support, and action for those affected by suicide in Dane County,” said Supervisor Analiese Eicher (Dist. 3). “By speaking openly about suicide and mental health, we remind one another that no one has to struggle alone. Compassionate and honest dialogue can be the first step toward help and healing.”

The board also welcomed members of the SPHRC to speak in support of the resolution. “As Co-Chair of the Suicide Prevention & Harm Reduction Coalition led by Safe Communities, and as the Senior Director for Behavior Health for UW Health & Meriter, I see every day the value of providing much-needed resources and programs in our community that will increase protective factors and reduce lethal means,” said Brad McKinney. “SPHRC is a group of people collaborating to do this through increased education and outreach and by providing trainings and harm reduction resources to our community.”

“The value of coalition work, like the Suicide Prevention & Harm Reduction Coalition, is that we use the strengths of our partnerships and lived experience to meet people where they are on their journey,” said Dr. Corinda Rainey-Moore, community engagement manager for UnityPoint Health-Meriter and board president of Safe Communities. “We use data driven strategies to inform our work and programming.”

The Dane County Board of Supervisors reaffirms its commitment to reinforcing suicide prevention efforts by supporting community partners such as the Suicide Prevention and Harm Reduction Coalition of Dane County, championing evidence-based policies, promoting access to life-saving resources and training, and encouraging open conversations to support all residents.

If you or someone you know needs support, call or text 9-8-8 or chat online at https://988lifeline.org. Dane County residents and visitors can also connect with a mental health professional and trained volunteers by dialing (608) 280-2600. Operators at the 988 Lifeline and Dane County Crisis Line are available 24/7, 365 days a year. For more information and resources, visit: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/crisis

Explore the Lake Wingra Loop

lake wingra loop map

Come explore Madison’s hidden gem by joining neighbors and friends for a community event around the 6.5-mile Lake Wingra Loop. Whether you bike, run, or walk, the loop offers an urban oasis filled with natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and neighborhood character.

The route circles Lake Wingra, passing through the Vilas, Dudgeon-Monroe, Nakoma, Arboretum, and Greenbush neighborhoods.  Along the way, markers and a digital Story Map highlight points of interest – from Native Ho-Chunk heritage sites and historic park developments to the ecological challenges and community stewardship that shape the lake today.

lake wingra bike ride

The Lake Wingra Loop Story Map is a product of a collaboration between the Friends of Lake Wingra, City of Madison Engineering, District 13 Alder Tag Evers, the UW Arboretum and representatives of the neighborhoods surrounding Lake Wingra. Detailed descriptions of the sites around the lake were vetted by the group and the larger community, including Bill Quackenbush, Ho-Chunk Tribal Historic Preservation Officer.

Start the event with a welcome at 1 p.m. at the Vilas Park tennis court parking area (end of Edgewood Ave.), then enjoy the route at your own pace. Information tables and local experts will be stationed along the way to share insights about the area’s history, ecology, and cultural significance.

Learn more and access the Story Map.

Come celebrate Lake Wingra and its unique story!

lake wingra logo
lake wingra QR code

This content is free for use with credit to City of Madison Engineering.

View full blog post

The Beacon Closed on Thursday, October 2

Hello all, on Thursday, October 2, The Beacon will be closed for staff training and completing maintenance projects. This is the last planned closure that we will have for the year. Beacon guests will be informed of alternate locations to go to for the day and will be provided with transportation assistance. Will send a reminder closer to the date.

YWCA Residential Program Availability Updates

Hello everyone,

YWCA Residential Housing programs, Single Women’s Housing and Third Street, are currently full. Because of this, these programs are not currently accepting applications for the time being. We will inform you if and when we are able to take new applications.

As a reminder, for shelter services, we receive all referrals through The Salvation Army. Please continue to contact Salvation Army directly for any families in need of shelter.

Thank you,

Joe Hecht, Singles Housing Coordinator

Homelessness Awareness Event – Save the Date!

I forgot to include this in my last message. Registration coming soon!

Purple Background with white text. Save the Date. The Human Side of Homelessness: A Summit of Stories, Education, and Advocacy, November 18, 2025 8:30AM - 3:30 PM, Alliant Energy Center, Registration to Come. November Homelessness Awareness: A month to remember, a life to change.

Image credit: Homelessness Awareness Planning Group

 

 

HSC 2025 Elections

Hello HSC Members!

Have you ever wanted to be on a Board of Directors?  It could be a great leadership opportunity, a resume builder, and a way to have an impact on service delivery in our community.  Board participation is also an opportunity to learn more about effective advocacy within our local homeless services system.

The HSC Nominating and Governance Committee is now accepting nominations for both the HSC Board of Directors and the HSC Membership Chair and Vice Chair positions.  The deadline for nominations is Monday, October 6th.

Please consider running for a Board seat or taking on a leadership position with our Membership body.  If you are not interested yourself, please give some thought as to who might be a good candidate, and nominate them if they are willing.  We are looking for individuals who are passionate about ending homelessness in Dane County, and who would bring diverse perspectives, skills, and experiences to our HSC Board and Membership.

See below for more details.  You can also reach out to Kim Sutter at  ksutter@porchlightinc.org with any questions.

HSC 2025 Board of Directors and Membership Chair and Vice Chair
Nomination and Election Information

The HSC Nominating and Governance Committee is seeking nominations for the following roles to be elected by the HSC Membership in October 2025 for terms beginning in January 2026:

  • Homeless Service Agency Seat (1 opening, 3-year term)
  • At-Large Seat (2 openings, 3-year term)
  • Membership Chair (1 opening, 1-year term)
  • Membership Vice Chair (1 opening, 1-year term; does not sit on Board of Directors)

**Note that there are no Lived Experience Seats up for election this year.  HSC members with lived experience of homelessness are not limited to elected or appointed Lived Experience Seats, and are highly encouraged to consider running for any of the above open seats for which they are eligible.

Please see the attached Board of Directors position descriptioncode of conduct, and conflict of interest policy for additional information on Board responsibilities.  Information about eligibility for each position is at the end of this email.  Please also see the attached HSC Chair & Vice Chair position description.

Nomination Process

You may self-nominate or nominate someone else you think could contribute in one of these roles.  Nominations (no more than two paragraphs) must include:

  • Name of the nominee
  • Agency or entity the nominee is affiliated with, if any
  • Seat/role for which the person is being nominated:
    *Note: If the nominee qualifies for more than one open seat (e.g., lived experience and at-large), would they be willing to fill another open position that is not the one originally selected?  If so, please include primary and secondary options.

    • Homeless Service Agency Seat
    • At-Large Seat
    • Membership Chair
    • Membership Vice Chair
  • Two forms of contact information for the nominee
  • If known, why the nominee wants to serve in this position
  • Summary of nominee’s relevant background and experience

Nomination and Election Timeline

  • Email nominations to hsc@cityofmadison.com.  The deadline for submitting nominations is 4:00pm on Monday, October 6th.
  • Candidates will be sent a few questions to answer in writing.  Contact hsc@cityofmadison.com if you need the questions in a different format.  Answers will be due Friday, October 10th at noon.
  • The Committee will announce the slate of candidates and distribute written responses from candidates on Tuesday, October 14th via the HSC listserv.
  • Nominees are invited and highly encouraged to attend the HSC annual membership meeting on Tuesday, October 21st from 1:00-2:30pm to introduce themselves and speak for up to 2 minutes about why they make a good candidate.
  • Voting will take place via electronic ballot sent to all eligible voters following the Tuesday, October 21st HSC membership meeting, and continuing through Friday, October 24th.  Results will be announced after voting has closed.
  • Newly elected positions will have onboarding and training opportunities during November and December before their terms begin in January 2026.

Position Eligibility

In an effort to have diverse perspectives represented in HSC leadership, eligibility for each position varies.

Homeless Service Agency Seat

Individuals elected to Homeless Service Agency Seats must represent an agency that receives CoC, EHH, or City ESG funds at the time of the election.  For the upcoming election, these agencies are:

  • Briarpatch Youth Services
  • Catalyst for Change
  • City of Madison
  • Community Action Coalition of South Central Wisconsin
  • Dane County, WI
  • Focus Counseling
  • Housing Initiatives, Inc.
  • Institute for Community Alliances
  • Legal Action of Wisconsin
  • Madison Street Medicine
  • OutReach, Inc.
  • Porchlight, Inc.
  • Tenant Resource Center
  • Tellurian
  • The Salvation Army of Dane County
  • The Road Home Dane County
  • Urban Triage
  • YWCA Madison

At-Large Seat

Individuals elected to At-Large Seats must not represent or work for an agency that receives CoC, EHH, or City ESG funds at the time of the election.  Please refer to the above list of agencies.

Rolling Nominations

If you are not able to run for a leadership position during this election cycle, but think you may be interested later on, please consider filling out our  interest form.  We will reach out at a later date to gauge your interest and availability for future election cycles and mid-year vacancies.

Sincerely,

HSC Nominating and Governance Committee

The Northside Early Childhood Zone has IMMEDIATE openings!

www.eczdane.org

The Northside Early Childhood Zone (NECZ) has openings for families who are pregnant or have young children!

The NECZ supports families in a two-generational approach through home visiting and integrated services. The ECZ programs are not childcare.

Eligibility requirements for the home visiting programs vary, but generally a family is eligible if they are pregnant and/or have a child under the age of 3. While most of these programs serve the entire county, to be eligible for NECZ services, a family must be living in the 53704 zip code. Participation is not dependent on languages spoken, all are welcome. Any family interested in conversations about their child’s growth and learning who may like to connect with additional community resources is encouraged to reach out to learn more!

To access NECZ services, families must be enrolled in and committed to participation and involvement in one of these six home visiting programs:

  • Early Childhood Initiative (RISE Wisconsin)
  • Welcome Baby and Beyond (RISE Wisconsin)
  • ParentChild+ (RISE Wisconsin)
  • Early Head Start (Reach Dane)
  • Nurse Family Partnership (Public Health Madison Dane County)
  • KinderReady (Children’s Wisconsin)

During regular visits in a family’s home or the community, home visitors talk with families about:

  • Play, activities and ideas to support the child’s learning, growth and development
  • Physical and emotional well-being, for both child and caregiver
  • Relationships, parenting and parent/child bonding

What makes the NECZ unique is that families can choose to access a variety of supports and services under one roof, which may include:

  • Adult Education and Employment Support (Children’s Wisconsin and FSET’s Family Stabilization Project)
  • Housing and Rent Assistance (Community Action Coalition)
  • Transportation Assistance
  • Mental health Counseling/Stress Management (The Rainbow Project)
  • Community Resources for Household Needs

For more information or to make a referral

please contact Tori Collier at

608-334-1056

vcollier@reachdane.org

Please share widely with your networks.

We love meeting our community partners! If you are interested, please respond to this email and someone from the team will reach out to schedule a time to meet. We are open to face-to-face as well as virtual. We are also happy to deliver hard copies of the attached flyers to any interested organizations. Please let us know if you would like some.

Thank you and we hope to meet you soon!

Click here to like us on Facebook!

NHCC September Legal Clinic – 9/25

Good morning,

Neighborhood House Community Center’s September Legal Clinic will take place on Thursday September 25 from 4-6:30. Individuals can request one thirty minute appointment for help with civil cases.

Appointment request here:  https://forms.gle/cvpWFbsELN1yum5Q7

More info here:  https://www.neighborhoodhousemadison.org/our-services#legal

Legal Clinic, Thursday September 25, 2025 4-6:30pm. Free legal advice and consultation with attorneys practicing family law, landlord tenant issues, estates, and more. Request an appointment online.

Image credit: Neighborhood House Community Center

 

2025 Week Without Driving: Events in Dane County

Join the MPO for a Community Event Series

Monday, September 29 – Sunday, October 5

What is the Week Without Driving?

The Greater Madison MPO, local communities, and partners across Dane County are coordinating events and activities as part of the 2025 Week Without Driving challenge, happening Monday, September 29 – Sunday, October 5. This national challenge invites elected officials, transportation leaders, and community members to go without driving for a trip, a day, or the full week to better understand the barriers faced by non-drivers in our communities.

Participants are encouraged to reflect on our transportation system from the perspective of the 30–40% of Dane County residents who do not drive—including youth, older adults, people with disabilities, people with low incomes, and those who choose not to drive.

Events & Activities 

A Week Without Driving Community Discussion Series

This year, three Community Discussion events will be held across the region, bringing people together to talk about transportation equity and accessibility.

  • Madison Panel Discussion — Sunday, September 28, 3:30–5 p.m.
  • Sun Prairie Panel Discussion — Tuesday, September 30, 7–8:30 p.m.
  • Fitchburg Panel Discussion — Thursday, October 2, 6:30–8 p.m.

See full event details on the flyer below, or visit our 2025 events website.

Flyer outlining community events during the 2025 Week Without Driving challenge

 

Celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Great Gatsby at Meadowridge Library this Fall

Celebrate 100 Years of The Great Gatsby at Meadowridge Library September 26 - October 17, 2025

MADISON, WI – The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald was published on April 10, 1925, and has since become a timeless classic of American fiction that has gone on to inspire several film, television, and theater adaptations, as well as other writers around the world. Set in the Jazz Age on Long Island, The Great Gatsby depicts Nick Carraway’s interactions with Jay Gatsby, a mysterious millionaire looking to reunite with his former love, Daisy Buchanan.

This year, from September 26 – October 17, Meadowridge Library is hosting a series of events in honor of the 100th anniversary of The Great Gatsby.

“There have been events celebrating The Great Gatsby throughout the year at various literary establishments across the country. Hosting a local event seems like a great opportunity to connect with youth who may be reading the book for school, as well as generations of people who have read and loved it before,” said Meadowridge Library Supervisor Yesianne Ramirez. “It also gives us a chance to reinforce our ongoing literacy efforts with library visitors in a fun and accessible way.”

Those who visit Meadowrige Library this fall can step into the glamor and decadence of The Great Gatsby during several events that will illuminate the Jazz Age, share more about the 1920s, and offer insights into some of the major themes in the book.

Great Gatsby Anniversary Events: 

Tertulia: Conversations about Outcasts, Mavericks, Bohemians. The Great Gatsby*

Friday, September 26, 11am – 12pm

Conversations about outcasts, outsiders, mavericks, bohemians, and free thinkers. Join Meadowridge Library Supervisor Yesianne Ramirez for a different type of conversation each month. Conversations will be about authors, literature, film, art, philosophy, poetry, history, or popular culture. Sometimes we will have expert guests, topic aficionados, or other library staff passionate about the discussed topic. This is a meet-up space for curious people; you don’t need to be prepared or have read anything to attend. Registration for this event is required. Participants are encouraged to follow the conversation’s ground rules, provided at the event. Participants can help select future conversation topics. This is a Spanish/English-friendly meeting. American Sign Language can be provided upon request.

Conversaremos sobre autores, literatura, cine, arte, filosofía, poesía, historia o cultura popular. En ocasiones, contaremos con invitados expertos, aficionados o personal bibliotecario apasionado por el tema. Éste es un espacio de encuentro para personas curiosas; no es necesario estar preparado ni haber leído nada para asistir. Favor de registrarse, espacio disponible para 10 personas. Le pedimos a los participantes seguir las reglas básicas de la conversación, se les proveera en el evento. Los participantes pueden ayudar a seleccionar futuros temas a discutir. Esta reunión es bilingüe en español e inglés.

 

Register for Tertulia: Great Gatsby

Meadowridge Book Club: The Great Gatsby

Monday, September 29, 5-5:45pm

In September, Meadowridge Book Club will be reading The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald. A limited number of copies will be available at the library several weeks before the event itself. Light refreshments will be provided; no registration required.

The Great Gatsby Film Screening*

Tuesday, September 30, 2-5pm

Join us for a screening of the 1974 film adaptation of The Great Gatsby directed by Jack Clayton and staring Francis Ford Coppola, Robert Redford and Mia Farrow. Screen time 149 min.

Sign up for the Film Screening

The Great Gatsby: Cooking & Entertaining*

Saturday, October 4, 1-3pm

Celebrate the 100th anniversary of The Great Gatsby by stepping into the culinary world of the roaring 20s. With the Jazz Age as a backdrop, author  Veronica Hinke will take us through the dishes and drinks that graced the tables of Jay Gatsby’s lavish parties. Throughout the program, nibble on finger sandwiches, lemon cake, and other foods Gatsby served Daisy at afternoon tea in Nick’s cottage.

Register for The Great Gatsby: Cooking & Entertaining

Escape the Gatsby Mansion*

Saturday, October 11, 10am – 2pm

Come accompanied by a trusted group of friends to help you solve Gatsby’s mystery. You will be a journalist on a secret mission, visiting Jay Gatsby’s famous parties. Your mission? Discover who Gatsby really is! You’ll have15 minutes in his study to discover clues during a fireworks display. Don’t lose time and find out the truth before Gatsby catches you in the act!

Register for the Escape Room in a 20 min. timeslot between 10am and 1:30pm. Come with a group of up to 5 people ages 8 and up.

Gatsby Games

Saturday, October 11, 10am – 2pm

While you wait your turn for the escape room, explore a variety of games that were popular in the 1920s: pick-up sticks, hopscotch, jacks, and more! Get crafty and create a flapper-inspired headband or fold a paper hat. All ages welcome; no registration required.

Jazz Era Speakeasy

Friday, October 17, 6-7:45pm

Enter the Jazz Age at Meadowridge Library and enjoy music, mocktails, Gatsby trivia and other activities. The library is celebrating 100 years of The Great Gatsby with a 1920s-themed, family-friendly “speakeasy” featuring music by The Neil Daily Quintet. Don’t let it pass, and come dressed in your best 20s costumes to enjoy an evening of Gatsby-themed fun. No registration required.

*Event requires registration

Learn more and sign up for events at madpl.org/greatgatsby

This programming is made possible thanks to the Madison Public Library Foundation. 

View full news release

Dane County Planning News- September 2025

The Senior Housing Crisis

Thursday, September 18, 3 PM

Join us on Thursday, September 18, 2025, 3:00-4:00 p.m., for the next RHN webinar exploring the senior housing crisis and solutions to better meet the needs of seniors and families in the community. Darrin Wasniewski, Outreach Director, AARP Wisconsin, will discuss local and national senior housing trends and tools; Danny Afable, Development Manager at JT Klein, will discuss how they are working with local communities to bring forward affordable senior housing and, Olivia Parry, Dane County Senior Planner, will present a new RHS Fact Sheet on Senior Housing. See you there!

Zoom link: https://zoom.us/j/94310243246

Learn More

Denounce Discriminatory Deeds Three Ways

Department staff are collaborating with the Dane County Historical Society, the WI Realtors Association, and the Realtors Association of South-Central Wisconsin to deploy free notary and filing services across the county in pursuit of 2024 Resolution 305 Repudiating Racial And Discriminatory Covenants In Dane County Property Records.

Division staff have enabled several in-person and online methods to file the “Discharge and Release of Discriminatory Restriction Affecting Real Property” form (WI Department of Administration). This form enables property owners and buyers to denounce the discriminatory documents for a $30 filing fee. The Wisconsin Realtors Association (WRA) has given Dane County a grant to cover the fee for early filers. So far, 50 denouncements have received funding and were filed.

If you have a discriminatory covenant on your title (see here), you can:

  1. Book Time with property and notary staff at 210 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Rm 116, Madison.
  2. Email gad@wisre.com to set up an online appointment to do Remote Notary with RASCW.
  3. Attend an in-person “fill and file” event listed at https://www.danecountyplanning.com/Prejudice-in-Places

If you are in the process of buying a home with a discriminatory covenant visit www.CloseWithPurpose.org to access the information you need and WRA funding.

Visit Prejudice in Places | Dane County Planning & Development for the latest events, news, and project background information.

Image below: Robert Proctor of RASCW speaks with Sun Prairie area residents about discriminatory deeds.

Map below: Purple circles denote where denouncements have been filed.

Data Center Proposed in the Town of Vienna

Planning staff are actively researching data centers—an emerging land use in Wisconsin and the greater Midwest region. Large data centers projects are being proposed in Beaver Dam, Port Washington, Menomonie, and in here in the Town of Vienna. The state’s abundant water resources and cold climate are a draw for these types of facilities.

Data centers provide space for servers and other digital infrastructure operated by tech companies like Microsoft, META, and Google. Some facilities, including the QTS proposal in the Town of Vienna can be “hyperscale” in size, with massive buildings totaling hundreds of thousands of square feet in area and spread across campuses encompassing hundreds of acres, some the largest reaching over 1,000 acres in size. Developments of this scale can have local and regional impacts, both positive and negative.

Staff are investigating best practices for local land use planning and regulation of data centers as well as the experiences of other communities around the nation. More information will be provided in the months to come.

Image below: Architect, Corgan, rendering for approved data center in Port Washington, WI.

BROADBAND: Wisconsin’s BEAD Final Proposal Submitted

Gov. Evers and the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) announced another major milestone in the State’s efforts to expand high-speed internet. On Sept. 3, the PSC submitted the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program Final Proposal to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) for approval. The proposal details preliminary awards intended to expand access to high-speed internet to more than 174,000 homes and businesses across the state.

The BEAD Program’s overarching goal is to provide high-speed internet to all Wisconsinites. BEAD will support the deployment of qualifying internet technology that provides service of at least 100/20 Megabits per second (Mbps) download/upload to all households and businesses in Wisconsin that lack access to 100/20 Mbps. State and Territories were allocated a portion of the BEAD funds through a formula. Wisconsin’s allocation was $1,055,823,574.

In Dane County, the preliminary BEAD results are favorable. In total, 2,881 locations (2,801 to Bertram Communications and 80 to Brightspeed) were awarded funding to deploy fiber technology. These awards will bring $17,046,931 in federal funding to Dane County.

Note that the BEAD Final Proposal, as approved by the PSC, is preliminary and requires NTIA approval before awards can be finalized and construction of high-speed internet infrastructure can begin. A detailed map of these preliminary awards can be found online at the PSC’s website.

Contact Dane County Broadband Coordinator, Jaron McCallum, via email at McCallum.Jaron@danecounty.gov or phone at 608-206-6316 with questions.

Confronting Hidden Histories in Our Homes

By Melissa Agard, Dane County Executive

Did you know that many homes in Madison- and across Dane County – still have racially restrictive covenants buried in their property deeds?

These covenants, dating back to the early 20th century, barred Black, Jewish, Asian, Italian, and other non-white families from owning or living in certain neighborhoods. They were tools of segregation, and while no longer legally enforceable, the language remains in property records, echoing a painful legacy.

I was surprised to learn that my own home had one of these discriminatory restrictions. I was proud to become the first person in Dane County to formally renounce this language using a new legal process. Thanks to a law I helped pass while in the State Senate, homeowners can now file a “Discharge and Release of Discriminatory Restriction” form to reject this history and help chart a new path forward.

That’s why Dane County created Prejudice in Places, a public education and action initiative led by our Planning & Development Department in partnership with the Office of Equity & Inclusion and community advocates. We’re helping residents identify these covenants and take steps to legally renounce them being in their deeds.

This work is about recognition, responsibility, and remediation. We must acknowledge our past, take responsibility for its lingering effects, and actively build a more inclusive future.

To see if your home is impacted and learn how to take action, visit: www.danecountyplanning.com/Prejudice-in-Places

This is a tangible step we can take together. Equity work starts at home, and every home matters.

Announcements

Q2 CTA.png
Looking for more information about ongoing planning projects, concepts and processes, or new resources and information in Dane County?
Visit Our Webite

 

Family Room at the Beacon Closed September 17- Thursday, October 2

Hello All, the Family Room at the Beacon will be closed starting this Wednesday, September 17 through Thursday, October 2 due to construction. The floor needs to be replaced because of water damage.

Water Main Flushing plans beginning Monday September 22nd (all flushing is daytime unless otherwise noted)

MAP:  https://www.cityofmadison.com/water/documents/water-quality/FlushingSchedule.pdf

East (Area11) – South of Milwaukee St west of Stoughton Rd.

West (Area12) – North of Mineral Point Rd. and east of Whitney Way; THEN east of Midvale Blvd. between Odana Rd. and University Ave.

West (Area28) – East of the Beltline and north of Old Sauk Rd.

———————————————————————-

———————————————————————-

————

Questions: Shayne Santi, 261-9128

 

Flushing Information Line: 261-9178

 

DETAILS:

Area 11 (East): 4-6 runs per day

Run ID Run Description

11001  Dempsey – Stoughton – Milwaukee –  (Calvert to E of Fair Oaks)

11003.1           Dempsey Rd (Milwaukee to Stoughton)

11003.2           Dempsey Rd (Immediately S of Milwaukee)

11004  Dempsey Rd (Portland to Cottage Grove Rd)

11004.2           Cottage Grove Rd- Royster Oaks Dr

11004.3           Pinny St- Silas St

11005  Anchor Dr

11005.2           Steines and Bergen to Anchor Dr

11006  Rockwell –  (Dempsey to Bergen)

11007  Lori Circle

11008  Dennett Dr – Hargrove St (Dempsey to Walter)

11009  Hargrove St (Walter to W end)

11010  Tulane Av – Ring St (Dempsey to S end)

11010.2           Tulane (Hargrove to Ring St)

11011  Tulane Av – Ring St (Hargrove to S end)

11012  Anchor Dr – Gunderson St (Dempsey to Tulane)

11013  Margaret St (Dempsey to Gunderson)

11014  Anchor – Ontario – Rockwell (Dempsey to Dempsey)

11015  Coral Ct

11016  Schenk St (Tulane to Milwaukee)

11017.1           Schenk St – Paus St from Tulane to Buckingham Ln

11017.2           Schenk St – Paus St from Tulane to Buckingham Ln

11018  Buckingham Ln – Dawes St (Paus to E end)

11019  Dawes St (Schenk to E end)

11020  Sussex – Buckingham – Dawes

11021  Richard St – Silver Rd (Schenk to N end)

11022.1           Wilshire Ln and Buckingham Ln From Schenk to N End Of Buckingham

11022.2           Hynek Rd – Silver Rd (Dempsey to N end)

11023  Calvert Rd – Silver Rd (Dempsey to N end)

11024  Lynnhaven Rd

11025  Richard – Bradford – Cumberland (Schenk to Richard)

11025.1           Richard St – Walter St to Cumberland Ln

11026  Dawes St – (Walter St to Bradford)

11027  Walter St (Hargrove to Milwaukee)

11029  Judd St – Farrell St (Hargrove to Milwaukee)

11030.1           Leon St (Milwaukee to Starkweather)

11030.2           Richard St (Judd to Leon)

11030.3           Harding (Dawes St to Hargrove) from Leon

 

Area 12 (West): 4-6 runs per day

Run ID Run Description

12260  Bayfield Ter from Fond du Lac Trl to Eau Claire Ave.

12261  Waushera Cir

12262  Fond du Lac Trl From Bayfield Ter to Bayfield Ter

12263  Regent St From LaFayette Dr to  Eau Claire Ave

12264  Regent St From Eau Claire Ave to Whitney Way

12265  Green Lake Pass to Barron Ct

12266  Door Dr to Barron Ct

12267  Buffalo Trl From N Eau Claire Ave to Barron Ct

12268  N Eau Claire Ave From Buffalo Trl to Sheboygan Ave

12270  Easement From Sheboygan Ave to N Eau Claire Ave

12271  Sheboygan Ave From N Eau Claire Ave to N Segoe Rd

12272  Madison Yards Way and Gardner Rd

12273  Gardner Rd

 

 

Area 28 (West): 4-6 runs per day

Run ID Run Description

28156  High Point Rd (Old Sauk to Tramore)

28157.1           Tramore Trail

28157.2           West Newhaven Circle

28157.3           East Newhaven Circle

28157.4           Highgate Circle

28157.5           Chesterton Circle

28158  High Point Rd – Boothbay Cir (Tramore to end Boothbay)

28159  Highpoint Rd (Boothbay to Norwalk)

28160  Bishops Hill Cir – Fox Point Cir

28161  Norwalk Cir – Bishops Hill Cir

28162  Fox Point Cir – Bishops Hill Cir

28163  Sawmill Rd (Tramore to Woodmont)

28164  Redmound Cir

28165  Darien Dr – Darien Cir

28166  Woodmont Circle

28167  N Woodmont Circle

28168  Sawmill Rd –  Eastbourne Cir (Woodmont to S end Eastbourne)

28169  Sawmill Rd – Sturbridge Cir (Eastbourne to S end Sturbridge)

28170  Thornhill Circle

28171  Sawmill Rd – Wallingford Cir (Sturbridge to N end Wallingford)

28172  Sawmill Rd – Ponwood Cir (Wallingford to E end Ponwood)

28173  Westfield Rd (Old Sauk to Sawmill)

28173.1           Harvest Hill Rd (Westfield to W end)

28174  Old Sauk – Westfield connector (E half)

28175  Old Sauk-Wesfield connector

28177  Andover Cir – Branford Ln

28178  Westfield Rd – Longmeadow Rd (Tramore to Longmeadow Cir)

28179  Longmeadow Rd (connector to W end)

28180  Castlebar Court

28181  Westfield – Sawmill (Longmeadow connector to Andover Cir)

28182  Apple Hill Circle

28183  Backbay Cir  (Longmeadow to Middleton)

28184  Middleton St – Drumhill Cir (Backbay to E end Drumhill)

28185  Middleton St – Gammon Rd (Drumhill to N end Gammon)

28186  Longmeadow Rd (Longmeadow Cir to Gammon)

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.