Madison Reporter

For Immediate Release

August 20, 2024

Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway issued a statement following the Madison Common Council's adoption of a referendum resolution by a vote of 17 to 2. The mayor emphasized the city's longstanding tradition of addressing complex issues and making principled decisions.

"Madison has never been afraid to tackle difficult problems, debate the best possible solution, and stand up for what's right," Rhodes-Conway stated. "That spirit was on display tonight when the Madison Common Council adopted the referendum resolution by a vote of 17 to 2."

Rhodes-Conway acknowledged the challenging nature of the decision but pointed to external constraints as a significant factor. "While necessary because of the punitive revenue restrictions imposed by the State Legislature, I know my Council colleagues will agree this was a difficult decision," she said.

The mayor highlighted that both alternatives were unappealing but underscored that avoiding substantial cuts to essential services was paramount. "What’s even less desirable than a referendum are the significant cuts to basic services our residents depend on and that underpin our city’s success that would be necessary without it," she explained.

Rhodes-Conway concluded by affirming that moving forward with a referendum in November is crucial for maintaining community values while seeking solutions for local government underfunding at the state level. "The approval of a referendum in November is the only budgetary path in 2025 that protects our values as a community, while we work to address the chronic underfunding of local governments at the state level. I’m glad the Council agreed that putting that issue to the voters is the right thing to do."