Madison Reporter

The City of Madison has distributed informational mailers to its residents ahead of the municipal funding referendum scheduled for November 5th. This initiative aligns with the city's standard practice of informing citizens about public hearings and significant updates to city services. The mailers are designed to educate voters on the referendum question, outlining in straightforward terms what a yes or no vote would entail. According to city officials, "the language was developed by city staff based on existing materials from the Finance Department, Common Council, and other City departments regarding the referendum." Additionally, this wording received approval from the City Attorney’s office.

A subsequent smaller mailer will soon be sent out as a reminder for residents to participate in voting. Informational mailers have been a common method employed by local governments nationwide to communicate effectively with their communities. Similar initiatives have been undertaken by several cities across the state concerning referenda on the upcoming November 2024 ballot.

The total expenditure for both mailers amounted to $47,168. As stipulated under Madison General Ordinance 4.26, expenditures below $50,000 do not necessitate approval from the Common Council. The costs were covered through the City’s general fund.