Madison Media Digest: Tony Robinson, Education, Government, Development

Here’s what we were reading while enjoying the Isthmus’ new website

Tony Robinson 

East High School’s run to this week’s state championship has been affected by the shooting of Tony Robinson, who was friendly with many players on the team. A basketball game between a team of police officers and minority high school students, which was organized in the hope of reducing tensions, was played at West High. 

Details began to emerge from the investigation into the death of Robinson, who was shot by Officer Matt Kenny on Mar. 6. The results of Robinson’s autopsy were released.  Robinson was under the influence of hallucinogenic mushrooms the night he died. Kenny’s family released a statement praising his character while agreeing with protesters that racial disparities in Madison must be addressed.  Madison Police Chief Mike Koval lauded Officer Matt Kenny’s service to the department. He also criticized the city council for its silence in the face of criticism of the department following the shooting. Dane County Supervisor Leland Pan said Koval was attempting to bully elected officials. Pan had his keys to the city-county building taken away after unlocking the doors so that protesters could enter. The group Progressive Dane called for a review of police procedures in response to the shooting. David Blaska says the conversation is increasingly one-sided. Chris Rickert detailed the police department’s responses to many of the suggestions proposed by activists.

Education

A public forum on the $41 million schools referendum will be held tonight at Sequoya Library. Jeff Pertl wrote why he plans to support the referendum on April 7. Chris Rickert thinks the Madison School Board will likely resist a proposal to open a charter school aimed at serving minority youth. More than half of East High School was absent on Mar. 9 during walkouts to protest the shooting of Tony Robinson.

Government

Madison and other agencies owe a combined $2.7 million after attempting to collect taxes on a retirement community on the Far West side that has tax exempt status. The city is struggling to meet service demands due to state property tax limits, which is a key issue in the mayoral campaign. The City Council will vote on proposed regulations for Uber and Lyft. Larry Kaufmann wrote an op-ed criticizing Mayor Paul Soglin’s position on the issue. The Cap Times published photos from last Thursday’s mayoral debate. Brenda Konkel tells the story of one biker’s conflict with the city over his “Minnebago.” In the Cap Times, the Race to Equity Team wrote they will not rest until Madison is a place with equal opportunities.

Development

A debate on proposed renovations to the Dane County Jail drew criticism and opposition to the plan. The Max W. Pohle Dental Clinic, specializing in services for low-income patients, will close this June. The Cap Times published a photo slideshow of recent renovations to State Street. The Garver Feed Mill will be turned into an “artisan food production facility.”