Madison Media Digest

If you only read one local news story this week, it should be this piece about the Hip Hop Architecture workshop for local middle and high school students, which helped them imagine and begin to design the sorts of communities they want to live in.

City Government

The City Council unanimously approved the sanctuary city resolution, which included the “safe place” provision that Mayor Soglin originally vetoed. The city development commission is considering large residential subdivisions on the east and west edges of Madison. The city is currently working on road salt contamination problems in west side wells. Sustainable Madison Committee hopes that Madison will run entirely on renewable energy by 2022. The city’s new street vending coordinator sees the opportunity to improve the current food cart system. Noosh food cart faces a citation for vending on Capitol Square without a permit to do so. 

Development

A local boat rental company plans to expand to Marshall Park on Lake Mendota. The parks commission approved the Olbrich beer garden, despite concerns from nearby residents. The Dane County Board voted to develop mixed income housing units on the former Messner property. After 10 years, Mia Za’s can no longer afford the cost of rent on State Street. “Village feel” suggested for Alliant Energy campus renovation. Two west side affordable housing projects are moving forward, though one of them is still waiting on the necessary tax credits. Greenbush Bakery will open a second location on the east side this summer. MG&E might get an official say in how the East Washington corridor is developed. Synergy coworking space is looking to diversify. 

Community

Madison might double the number of parks that allow leashed dogs. Seventh grader Martius Bautista won his fourth All-City Spelling Bee. Lighthouse Christian School could expand significantly thanks to state voucher program. The state insurance board is considering eliminating a healthcare plan that Madison employees are currently using. One of the candidates for school board seat seven emphasizes that all children deserve a quality education. Another candidate for school board seat seven believes that the school board needs someone who can represent the perspective of educators. Edgewood College and One City Early Learning Center are partnering to provide training for future preschool teachers. Read Your Heart Out event helps parents get involved in their children’s education.