Statement from Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway on the Referendum Resolution

For Immediate Release
August 20, 2024

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

While both alternatives are unappealing, 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. 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.”