WHITE ASPEN ROAD Homicide The murder of a 38-year-old man on Feb. 3 marks the first homicide of the year, according to a report from the Madison Police Department. According to the report, a man was shot and killed by his housemate after the two had a fight in their… Read more »

The Susan G. Komen Foundation for breast cancer awareness announced the organization will reverse its recent decision to cut funding to Planned Parenthood after a wave of criticism called the decision political. According to a statement by the foundation, the cut to Planned Parenthood’s funding was not politically driven. “Our… Read more »

Technological advances, the city’s political atmosphere and an influx of students contributed to a record number of people riding the Madison Metro buses in 2011, up more than 10 percent from 2010 at nearly 15 million people. At the highest number since 1970, 14,923,970 people rode approximately 160 buses last… Read more »

A Madison bar’s federal civil rights claim brought against the city of Madison and area officials was ultimately dismissed in a U.S. District Court after a long controversy. The claim alleged that city officials exhibited racist behavior in their decision to close down R’ Place, a south side bar. “After… Read more »

The proposed construction for North Henry Street was up for consideration on Thursday, with business owners voicing concerns that narrowing the street would make already tricky shipping areas more difficult. North Henry, which is slated to go through full reconstruction, would be narrowed to make more room for sidewalk space.… Read more »

The ongoing Downtown Plan debate moved through the Madison Central Business Improvement District Committee Thursday, ultimately garnering general support for its vision of sustaining a vibrant and healthy downtown business and entertainment district. BID Executive Director Mary Carbine said because the plan must go through the city process, which could… Read more »

After downtown bar owners came under fire for entry policies some critics called discriminatory, Madison city officials plan to host training to address fair entrance rules and maintain safety for patrons. The training session, set to be headed by several city agencies Feb. 20, is a revised version of previous… Read more »

Members of the Urban Design Commission voted Wednesday to refer the discussion of plans to renovate the 100 block of State Street to its next meeting, marking the second commission this week that has been unable to make a comprehensive decision on the proposal. Architect of 100 Block Foundation Douglas… Read more »

A city committee rejected a controversial proposal to allow police more flexibility in policing nuisance house parties throughout the city on Wednesday.  The city’s Housing Committee voted not to support the ordinance in a 6-3 vote. The ordinance would impose stricter consequences on both tenants and landlords if it gains… Read more »

A recent stall on the controversial aspects of the Downtown Plan, along with ideas to both preserve and enhance the 100 Block of State Street, was the key issue in a Tuesday night discussion session among Madison City Council members. Downtown Plan Project Managers Bill Fruhling and Brad Murphy presented… Read more »

Madison Mayor Paul Soglin honored two local writers Monday by announcing their new positions as poets laureate. Sarah Busse and Wendy Vardaman have agreed to share the volunteer position, Madison Arts Administrator Karin Wolf said. The positions entail creating poems for particular functions at the request of the mayor’s office,… Read more »

Madison policymakers have begun exercising efforts to address homeless people sleeping and drinking alcohol in city buildings as the details of a city ordinance billed to ensure employees’ safety begins to take effect.Madison Alcohol Policy Coordinator Mark Woulf said a recently approved ordinance aims to address the congregating of homeless individuals in… Read more »

View Crime in Brief: Jan. 31st, 2011 in a larger map WEST GORHAMSexual Assault A report from the Madison Police Department said a woman contacted officials Saturday saying she believed she had been sexually assaulted after a man she did not know offered to walk her home from a bar… Read more »

A controversial proposal to redevelop and restructure the 100 block of State Street received partial approval at the Landmarks Commission meeting Monday. The proposal calls for action against two buildings that are designated as historical landmarks in Madison — the Castle and Doyle building at 125 State Street, and the… Read more »

City and campus leaders explored outstanding issues regarding the construction of a 14-unit student apartment building on the University of Wisconsin campus at a meeting Tuesday night.  The Joint Southeast Campus Area Committee dealt with two main items Monday surrounding various constructions connected to campus streets and buildings. The committee… Read more »

City officials and local organizations are working to break the habit of increasing heroin addiction in the Dane County area through a cooperative community effort. According to a statement from the offices of Mayor Paul Soglin and County Executive Joe Parisi, heroin and prescription drug abuse has been on the… Read more »

City of Madison staff outlined their concerns about preserving the historical integrity of the buildings on the 100 block of State Street in light of a proposal to rebuild the area. Ald. Mike Verveer, District 4, said the report was drawn up by Amy Scanlon, a preservation planner on the… Read more »

A minimally publicized City Council meeting Saturday morning explored long-untouched issues including role of alders in city decisions and their relation to the mayor’s office. Ald. Mike Verveer, District 4, said the meeting was spent in part discussing whether or not the Common Council should have a legislative agenda and… Read more »

W. BELTLINE HWY: Arrested Person Two Madison women were arrested Thursday for allegedly attempting to traffic an underage girl, according to a police report. Kayla Powers, 20, and Jazmyn Powers, 20, were tentatively charged with human trafficking after police were called to a Super 8 hotel on the beltline.… Read more »

The mayor’s office has announced that the mayor will begin filming a monthly TV program to update Madison residents on current city issues and increase communication between the mayor and his constituents. The half hour program will be aired on Madison City Channel and hosted by Mayor Paul Soglin and… Read more »

After months of contentious debate surrounding the proposed renovation of the 100 block of State Street, members of the Madison community put forth an alternative plan for the historic area. The current plan would demolish all or part of several buildings on the block, which some Madisonians have argued would… Read more »

Non-profit organizations in Madison are set to receive some welcomed funds after United Way of Dane County announced it had received $16.6 million in donations from a variety of donors within the public and private sectors. United Way of Dane County outlined six major regions of possible improvement for the Dane… Read more »

As Dane County takes the next steps in bettering its response system, most cities, towns and villages encompassed within the county are set to sign on with a proposed plan to link all law enforcement and security forces via a new radio network.  Josh Wescott, Dane County executive chief of… Read more »

A University of Wisconsin student sustained significant facial injuries after an alleged near-campus mugging. The incident occurred on North Broom Street between Gorham Street and State Street early Sunday morning, a Madison Police Department report said.  According to the report, the victim was allegedly struck from behind, with what he… Read more »

Madison’s Alcohol License Review Committee approved the Nuisance Party Ordinance at a meeting Wednesday, which opponents say could negatively affect landlord-tenant relations and unfairly target student-hosted parties. Ald. Mike Verveer, District 4, was the only ALRC member to vote against the ordinance, citing ambiguous language as his main reason for… Read more »

With cutbacks to the number of beds available at the Dane County detox center to take effect soon, Madison’s chief of police recently sent a letter to the county saying the new model is unnecessarily endangering the lives of citizens and calling for an immediate return to the prior levels… Read more »

City officials are currently in the process of creating a committee to discuss moped parking in response to recent problems across the city. After a recent change made by the Wisconsin Legislature, bicycles and mopeds are now considered separate transportation categories, and the city can issue ordinances for more direct… Read more »

Amid controversy surrounding a mining bill in the current legislative session, one Wisconsin mining company is currently looking into constructing a sand mine in Dane County, despite being rejected by landowners in the area. The Wisconsin Industrial Sand Company recently approached farmers in the Town of Berry to inquire whether… Read more »

HIGHWAY 51 AND PFLAUM ROAD Overdose A young woman was cited with her second offense of operating while under the influence Tuesday afternoon when she fell unconscious at a stop light and, upon waking, accelerated into an intersection and hit a traffic pole. According to a Madison police report, 26-year-old… Read more »

Despite a revised proposal, Madison community members are still conflicted over redevelopment plans proposed for the 100 block of State Street after city officials toured the vacant buildings currently sitting on the proposed site. Executive director of the Madison Trust for Historic Preservation Jason Tish said the Overture Foundation is… Read more »

A University of Wisconsin student announced his plan to run for the Dane County Board Tuesday evening, challenging a fellow student candidate for the soon-to-be open chair in the upcoming spring election. John Magnino, a junior majoring in political science and economics, announced he would run for the District 5… Read more »

The Madison Metropolitan School District is asking the city to perform background checks on poll workers stationed at schools. The new background check requirement would improve the consistency of guidelines that all MMSD employees and volunteers are currently required to follow, said Erik Kass, assistant superintendent of business. A recent… Read more »

The Henry Vilas Zoo welcomed a new batch of exotic animals including a male red panda, who will help the zoo renew their efforts to preserve and protect the endangered species.  According to a statement form the zoo, the park recently obtained three new exotic animals, a male red panda… Read more »

Tensions have been running high among members of an agency pushing for a local charter school and the Madison Metropolitan School District Board of Education. The Urban League of Greater Madison, a local minority advocacy group, opposed the school board’s December decision to prevent the academy’s proposed opening of Madison Preparatory… Read more »

Residents of a campus-area transitional housing facility were able to return to their homes shortly after the shelter experienced a devastating fire that displaced dozens of its members Jan. 13. Porchlight, a community housing organization that provides food, counseling and shelter to homeless people in the downtown area, reopened its… Read more »

An ordinance introduced to the city’s Affirmative Action Commission Tuesday would require contractors to give equal benefits to domestic partners and spouses of their employees.The ordinance was introduced by Ald. Mike Verveer, District 4, with the assistance of Assistant City Attorney Lara Mainella. Verveer said half of the City Council, as… Read more »

An ordinance that would give the city more ways to crack down on nuisance house parties continues to be tied up in committee as students and the Madison Police Department take concern with its language. According to Alcohol Policy Coordinator Mark Woulf, the Alcohol License Review Committee tentatively defined a… Read more »

View this map on a larger scale STATE STREET Weapons Violations Shots fired at Frida Mexican Grill on State Street resulted in two non-life threatening injuries on New Year’s Eve, a Madison Police Department incident report said.  MPD spokesperson Joel DeSpain said the two victims were battered inside the bar… Read more »

Members from the Block 100 Foundation submitted revised plans for the renovation of the historic State Street block Monday after community members voiced concerns for preserving the street’s historically significant features. According to project manager George Austin, the foundation offered its application for renovations to the 100 block of State… Read more »

Thousands grappling with the bitter cold and effects of a struggling economy will find shelter following Wednesday’s opening of a temporary local day shelter intended to bring vagrants inside during the winter months. The approved temporary day shelter will be at the former Don Miller Properties located on East Washington… Read more »

The city’s Transit and Parking Commission outlined plans for improving the city’s transportation networks and increasing the transit choices available to Madison residents during its meeting Wednesday. Commission members and city officials reviewed a proposed plan that would improve access to high frequency mass transit, increase connection to other cities… Read more »

The city’s Parking Divison launched a web and mobile application Monday that allows downtown visitors and students commuting to campus from outside areas to view real-time parking availability data. City Parking Operations Manager Bill Knobeloch said the app will reduce traffic downtown and save huge amounts of time for visitors.… Read more »

Two new members, who are little in terms of both age and size, have arrived at the Henry Vilas Zoo. The zoo announced Tuesday the adoption of a set of Geoffroy’s Marmosets, an endangered species of monkey rare in zoos around the world. According to a statement released by the… Read more »

Plans to create a task force to tackle a growing heroin “epidemic” were set into motion this semester by city and county officials. The nonprofit organization Safe Communities and the Public Health Department worked together to create the Opiates Task Force, which will focus on reducing access to and demand… Read more »

A city commission laid out their plans for incorporating more public art in Madison during their meeting Tuesday. The Madison Arts Commission and city officials looked at a proposal that would integrate art into city development projects, promote local cultural venues and encourage collaboration between artists and developers and engineers.… Read more »

After being hit by several major storms early in 2011, Madison remains snow-free for the month of December, which has eased the city’s budget and saved hundreds of thousands of dollars. In contrast to years past, the city has not expended any of its snow removal budget this season. City… Read more »

UNIVERSITY AVENUE Battery A 19-year-old University of Wisconsin student and a 28-year-old Madison man were assaulted Saturday morning when the student tried to come between three men who were arguing, according to a Madison Police Department report. One of the suspects grabbed the student and held him down while another… Read more »

A Madison developer recently proposed a 12-story housing development on East Washington Avenue, a project that could generate controversy because it exceeds the city’s maximum height limit for the area. The building would be constructed by Gebhardt Development and would be a $31.5 million combination of apartments, townhomes, commercial space… Read more »

After years of battle with city officials and residents, developers of the proposed Edgewater Hotel project issued a last push to have city financing and support secured by the end of the year to allow the project to continue. In a letter to Madison City Attorney Michael May, Edgewater real… Read more »

The much-contested plan for the proposed Madison Preparatory Academy, a charter school that would serve underrepresented students, ignited further controversy among the Madison School Board, teachers’ union and community when the plan’s leaders announced their intent to employ non-union teachers. If Madison Prep is approved by the Madison School Board… Read more »

Despite concerns about violence at the event last year, many members of the Madison community, including city officials and University of Wisconsin students, vowed to keep the tradition of the Mifflin Street Block Party alive for 2012. At the beginning of the school year, Madison Mayor Paul Soglin said he… Read more »

This story is the second of a two-part series investigating sexual assault on the University of Wisconsin campus. Experts say the University of Wisconsin culture must shift to combat the prevalence of sexual assault on campus and in the surroundings areas. Student organizers and members of the UW staff say… Read more »

The city’s Urban Design Commission expressed concerns Wednesday regarding proposed renovations to the St. Paul’s University Catholic Center that would expand the site to allow for increased student use and functionality. The proposed six-story facility would go beyond simply being a chapel, said Bob Krupa, spokesperson for RDG Planning &… Read more »

This story is the first in a two-part series on sexual assault on the University of Wisconsin Campus. Well before taking their first steps onto a college campus, the majority of women have at some point heard the statistic that one in every four females will be the victim of… Read more »

Dane County Executive Joe Parisi unveiled the formation of a task force Wednesday that will review the community’s needs and decide on a plan of action as the county looks to expand the Alliant Energy Center. The Alliant Energy Center currently is as a key economic server in Dane County,… Read more »

EAST TOWNE MALL RETAIL THEFT Three women stole more than $600 of merchandise from the Victoria’s Secret store at East Towne Mall last Wednesday, a Madison Police report said. The store manager, who was in tears after the incident, said she recognized the women as soon as they entered because… Read more »

The city’s Board of Estimates continued negotiations with city attorneys Monday regarding increased payments to their health care benefits in order to meet city budget shortfalls. The discussion took place in a special closed session after the regular meeting. Although he was not able to provide any specific details about… Read more »

A city committee considered proposals outlining development and cultural plans in Madison’s downtown area Monday. Co-project Manager William Fruhling presented the city’s Downtown Plan at the Plan Commission meeting, laying out nine keys to the future of downtown Madison, emphasizing the importance of the plan’s first tenet: celebrating the lakes.… Read more »

An evening in the life of a University of Wisconsin Police Department officer entails a wide array of tasks, ranging from patrolling murky and secluded areas of campus to aiding house fellows in monitoring incapacitated students. Officer Tanner Gerstner said the job comes with moments of absolute terror, whether it… Read more »

Alongside a university atmosphere that gives Madison an intellectually and educationally high-powered air exists an achievement gap that separates students of color from their peers, a problem that is currently a flashpoint of debate among city officials. University of Wisconsin assistant professor of education Peter Miller said the achievement gap… Read more »

SOUTH THOMPSON ROAD Possession with Intent to Distribute When a taxi cab arrived outside the Madison Police Department East District Station last Wednesday, the passenger jumped out and fled as a car carrying four men followed in hot pursuit, a MPD report said. The man’s girlfriend entered the police station and… Read more »

City Council recently approved a resolution to recognize housing as a human right and announce the city’s commitment to developing a housing plan in Dane County to address homelessness and inequality in housing. According to the resolution, homelessness affects a wide range of citizens and in Madison, families have been turned… Read more »

SHERMAN AVENUE: Drug Investigation A 15-year-old student at Shabazz City High School was arrested Tuesday afternoon for drug charges, a Madison Police report said. MPD spokesperson, Joel DeSpain, said the student was found to possess 16 grams of marijuana, 22 oxycodone pills, a scale and several baggies. The student claimed… Read more »

Members of a city business group scrutinized a proposed design for remodeling the Memorial Union, a controversial plan that could alter the famed campus landmark and increase student accessibility. Members of the Madison Central Business Improvement District met Thursday and received an update on the project. Mark Guthier, director of… Read more »

The Alcohol License Review Committee referred legislation concerning penalties associated with student-hosted house parties to next month’s meeting in order to give the Madison Police Department time to prepare a plan for it during a meeting Wednesday. The new bill aims to restructure city ordinances in order to deter students… Read more »

The city’s Board of Public Works considered the reconstruction and assessment of several student-occupied downtown areas in addition to the renovation of a Madison Police training center during a meeting Wednesday. Board members said some of the reconstruction plans may directly affect University of Wisconsin students’ safety and living quality.… Read more »

After numerous complaints regarding public safety, the Madison City Council voted Tuesday to allow firefighters to participate in the annual “Fill the Boot” fundraiser along the streets of Madison for at least the next two years. Firefighters in Madison participated in the nationwide nonprofit campaign for the first time this… Read more »

Despite funding being shot down at city budget meetings earlier this month, Edgewater Hotel developers are determined to pull out all the stops to secure city funding for the proposed $98 million renovation. Ald. Mark Clear, District 19, one of Edgewater’s leading advocates, said developer Robert Dunn will pursue the… Read more »

In an effort to preserve and further the quality of the artistic culture in Madison and enrich the community and city, Dane County officials have created what they are calling a unique and prestigious opportunity for a Madison artist to study his or her craft abroad. At a press conference… Read more »

Although certain campus-area bars have ended their controversial entrance policies, members of the city’s Equal Opportunities Commission met Monday express their continued concerns about the issue and its discriminatory and possibly racial implications. Two bars on University Avenue — Wando’s and Johnny O’s Sports Lounge — recently decided to remove… Read more »

Although a recent City Council vote all but killed the Edgewater Hotel redevelopment project, a leading Edgewater opponent has filed a petition in an attempt to ensure that the concept will never become a reality. Fred Mohs, a Mansion Hill neighborhood resident and attorney, said he has filed a petition… Read more »

NOLAND HALL-Burglary University of Wisconsin police officers responded to a report of a suspect making an attempt to steal a video projector from a classroom inside Noland Hall Saturday, a UWPD statement said. The suspect told officers he was in the building to use the restroom, but then admitted to… Read more »

SPRING STREET Residential Burglary A 21-year-old woman was awoken by a rustling sound Wednesday morning when someone reached in through her slightly ajar window, a Madison Police Department report said. The woman typically keeps her laptop computer on a table next to the window, the report said, though it was not… Read more »

A city finance committee approved a number of amendments aimed toward improving Madison’s parks and public safety and authorized the city attorney to take legal action against the state in light of significant cutbacks Monday. The mayor, city clerk and chief of police were approved by the Board of Estimates… Read more »

State Street landmark Nadia’s Restaurant and Grapevine Lounge has officially closed and been repossessed after years of controversy between the restaurant’s owners and landlords about its condition, success and marketability. A sign on one of the dark windows announced the final decision. “Pursuant to Court Order, this property is now… Read more »

A city committee on Monday night unanimously approved phase one of a plan to renovate the Memorial Union, a proposal that comes a month after a previous plan to renovate the Union was voted down by just 23 votes in the Associated Students of Madison fall elections. At the Joint… Read more »

Some of the most talented cyclists in the world will be descending on Madison in 2013 when the city hosts one of the largest bicycle racing competitions in the nation. Madison was recently selected to host the 2013 and 2014 Elite, U23, Juniors and Paralympic Cycling National Championships, according to… Read more »

SOUTH GAMMON ROAD Disturbance A 35-year-old Madison woman was arrested and charged with second degree reckless endangerment of safety Thursday after driving her car into a group of people standing outside of a bar on the west side of Madison. According to a Madison Police Department report, the altercation arose when… Read more »

The national Occupy Wall Street movement and the Occupy University of Wisconsin movement have pledged to focused their attention on student loans, an issue Occupy members say is quickly enveloping millions of recent graduates nationwide. Andrew Ross, a New York University professor and prominent member of the Occupy movement in… Read more »

Members of the Madison Police Department saw their first peaceful clash with community members circulating petitions to recall the governor Wednesday after complaints came in that petitioners were obstructing roadways in the city. MPD said it is telling petition circulators to stop using traffic cones to block off roadways for… Read more »

Dane County Executive Joe Parisi signed the 2012 county budget Thursday, OKing more than $4.4 million in increased funds for programs administered by Dane County Human Services.Parisi said one of the main goals for the budget was ensuring absolute minimum cuts to basic services deemed necessary to maintain the quality… Read more »

The Madison City Council voted Wednesday night to help the Overture Center for the Arts stay afloat by granting it $500,000 of additional city funding, a controversial move that contributed to the mayor’s threat to veto the entire budget. The decision will raise the total Overture funding being provided by… Read more »

Public funding for one of Madison’s most highly contested building projects came to a close Tuesday night when the City Council halted plans for the redevelopment of the historic Edgewater hotel in a tie vote. The vote over whether to provide $16 million worth of tax incremental financing to the… Read more »

Despite positive economic factors in the Madison area—including  low unemployment and proximity to a world-class research institution— two consulting firms say local economies have room to grow and are working on plans to produce jobs.  The Market Street Services of Atlanta, an outside consulting firm, and Thrive, a non-profit organization… Read more »

NORTH BROOM STEET: Battery On Monday night, two downtown roommates found a man hanging down from a second floor balcony outside their residence, an MPD report said. An accomplice was nearby. The intruders started a fight with the two men. Their other roommates came out to try to keep the… Read more »

The persistent Edgewater Hotel project cleared another hurdle in its race to completion last week when a private financing plan was approved and finalized, but the project still has to undergo a city vote during Tuesday’s City Council meeting. Project Developer Robert Dunn said the project received all the private… Read more »

Project heads for the proposed redevelopment of the 100 block of State Street were met with strong opposition from the public while arguing their plan before the city’s Landmarks and Urban Design commissions Monday night. Eric Lawson, president and CEO at Potter Lawson, Inc., and Doug Hirsch, the company’s design… Read more »

The downtown bars that implemented a controversial and allegedly discriminatory admission policy have stopped their enforcement after an overwhelmingly negative response from city officials and the community. Ald. Mike Verveer, District 4, said downtown bars Johnny O’s and Wandos have removed signs in the windows that said the bars require… Read more »

City planning staff have expressed concern the proposed redevelopment of the 100 block of State Street would permanently destroy Madison landmarks and take away from the street’s historic architectural concept. Steven Cover, director of the city’s Department of Planning and Community and Economic Development, sent a letter explaining his and… Read more »

The Verona software development company Epic Systems recently announced plans to expand its campus with another set of office buildings, creating about 900 new jobs at the company. The new development will be located on the south side of the campus and will be made up of three buildings, situated… Read more »

FRANCES STREET AND UNIVERSITY AVENUE Car Accident Lt. Mary Lou Ricksecker of the Madison Police Department said a car-pedestrian accident occurred near the intersection of University Avenue and Frances Street Friday evening, injuring two. Two cars collided and the second car was pushed into the bike path. Ricksecker said a… Read more »

The city’s Equal Opportunities Commission took action Thursday against a bar policy which requires a driver’s license for entry, citing possible prejudice and discriminatory practices as reasons to fight against the policy. In addition to the concerns about discrimination raised by the bar policy, commission members worried the policy was… Read more »

The Mifflin Neighborhood Association met Thursday to review safety concerns on the Mifflin Street Block Party and begin plans to collaborate with students, along with reviewing several development projects in the Mifflin area. Ald. Mike Verveer, District 4, said the association is interested in collaborating with students as conversations about… Read more »

The arrival of the season’s first storm ushers in winter-specific parking regulations, precautions and road conditions that require extra attention from downtown residents. MPD spokesperson Joel DeSpain said a few minor traffic accidents and slide-offs were reported around the city. All of the incidents were minor, and no injuries occurred.… Read more »

The proposal for Madison’s new charter school, Madison Prep, is facing criticism from the American Civil Liberties Union of Wisconsin for its same-sex education strategy, which is unique in the area. ACLU released a letter outlining the concerns over the legality of the same-sex education plan Madison Prep is proposing.… Read more »

The city is looking to residents to weigh in on plans for the development of Judge Doyle Square, a project that seeks to redevelop the area’s pedestrian and bicycle accessibility, as well as tourist appeal. Judge Doyle Square is the area bordered by Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, Doty Street… Read more »

Law enforcement officials, including federal and state prosecutors, the FBI and the city attorney, gathered Tuesday to offer a choice to the city’s 10 most prominent criminals: make a change with the help of community members or receive the maximum penalty allowed by law. Madison Police Chief Noble Wray said… Read more »

LUCKY APARTMENTS Fire Madison firefighters were called to a seventh floor balcony at Lucky Apartments on University Avenue after a grill caught fire Tuesday morning, a Madison Fire Department report said. Fire crews initially believed the fire was on the fifth floor, but saw flames reflected in seventh story windows… Read more »

A former University of Wisconsin student pleaded guilty to possession and distribution of child pornography Monday, an activity that he performed on the UW server. Matthew Hendrickson now faces a maximum of 20 years in federal prison. The investigation of his actions dates back more than a year. U.S. Attorney Office… Read more »

View New student apartments in Madison in a larger map The Madison Landmarks Commission recommended plans for a central campus apartment building amid controversy about preserving the integrity of the historic neighboring fire station. Madison architecture firm Knothe & Bruce has proposed an eight-story residential building on Dayton Street, next… Read more »

Officials say strides will be made to improve the Madison Public Library system after more than $50,000 was added to the system’s budget at a city committee meeting Monday night. MPL will use the additional $50,322, awarded by the Board of Estimates, to maintain adequate staffing at various branches throughout… Read more »

The city is on the verge of launching plans to redevelop the former Don Miller properties on East Washington Avenue, hoping to bring new life and commerce to a youth-dominated area. Mayor Paul Soglin said the city is negotiating potential deals with developers to build commercial and residential properties on… Read more »

A new ID policy put in effect by a handful of Madison bars to only allow entry with a valid driver’s license or passport has led some city officials to take concern about possible racial discrimination. Recent research done in Madison shows that about 15 percent of Caucasians do not… Read more »

View Crime in Brief - 11-7-2011 in a larger map REGENT STREET Drug Arrest A Milwaukee man caught the attention of Madison police when he demanded that officers give him a ride to his friend’s house in their squad car, a Madison Police Department report said. Moments after denying his… Read more »

The City Housing Committee has not met since July, leaving all potential housing legislation and ordinances stagnant in anticipation of the committee’s reformation. Several pieces of legislation are waiting to go through the decision process. One item most pertinent to students is the proposed “Nuisance Party Ordinance.” If the ordinance… Read more »

The Madison City Council unanimously voted Tuesday to provide a $1.3 million loan to allow the development of a new University of Wisconsin clinic that will allow doctors who promote and treat digestive health to reach more patients. The project is one of the largest in recent city history, Senior… Read more »

With a continuing increase in the achievement gap, the Urban League of Greater Madison believes the proposed Madison Prep charter school will provide underrepresented students in the Madison area with an opportunity to bridge the gap. Madison Prep will consist of two schools, one for boys and one for girls.… Read more »

A Madison developer and architect presented their plans for two new student apartment complexes that, if approved by city and neighborhood councils, will be erected on North Bassett Street. At a meeting on Wednesday night, developer Scott Faust, along with Ald. Mike Verveer, District 4, and architect Randy Bruce, described… Read more »

A city commission approved the construction of an eight-story student apartment building on the property of the University of Wisconsin campus’ Episcopal student center on University Avenue after months of controversy Wednesday night. The 80-unit building, located at 1001 University Ave., is across North Brooks Street from Grainger Hall and… Read more »

Overture Center staff members gathered in front of the City Council Tuesday night to express their disappointment concerning the council’s previous decision to reduce the center’s budget and urged the alders to increase funding to support local art. Although the city promised the nonprofit Overture Center Foundation a $2 million… Read more »

A bill that gives landlords more leverage in tenant agreements by altering 25-year-old housing ordinances passed the Assembly last night. The landlord bill was introduced by Senators Frank Lasee, R-De Pere, Pam Galloway, R-Wausau and Dale Schultz, R-Richland Center, and affects several Madison housing ordinances that involve security deposits, apartment… Read more »

PARK STREET: Battery While walking down the 100 block of North Park Street early Saturday morning with his friends, a 20-year-old University of Wisconsin student was punched in the face and sent to the hospital with injuries that required several sutures. The victim alleged a friend of his was attacked… Read more »

Members of the city’s Equal Opportunity Commission took preliminary steps to address controversial admittance policies in certain campus-area Madison bars, which some have charged are discriminatory. Some campus-area bars have decided to no longer accept state-issued IDs as valid forms of proof of age for entrance — a policy which… Read more »

City of Madison officials are redoubling their efforts to recruit Madison residents to fill numerous vacancies on a diverse pool of city committees, including targeting students to lend their perspective to city politics. The City’s website lists over 100 vacancies in areas ranging from the Urban Design Commission to the… Read more »

STATE STREET Sexual Assault A 28-year-old Madison woman was sexually assaulted at the Whiskey Jacks Saloon on State Street, a Madison Police Department report said. According to the report, a 20 to 30-year-old man made unwanted advances towards the woman and then put his hand down her shirt. Police were… Read more »

Saturday’s Freakfest was a success from a safety and security standpoint, but this year’s paid attendance was one of the lowest in recent years. Ald. Mike Verveer, District 4, said the event had approximately 25,000 paid attendees. An additional estimated 5,000-10,000 people obtained complimentary admission or arrived before 7 p.m,… Read more »

With Madison’s Central Library set to close next month for renovations, there is uncertainty about where the city’s homeless will be able to find shelter during the winter. Steve Schooler, executive director of Porchlight, Inc., is suggesting the former Don Miller properties on East Washington Avenue be turned into a… Read more »

Capitol Neighborhoods and the Tenant Resource Center tried to raise awareness about the resources available to student tenants and how they can protect themselves from unfair landlord practices Thursday night. Brenda Konkel, the Executive Director of the Tenant Resource Center, spoke to the association about tenants’ rights, security deposits, repairs… Read more »

With Freakfest fast approaching, both city officials are making last minute preparations to ensure optimal security and fun on Saturday night. Ald. Mike Verveer, District 4, said the city will be bringing in a mobile tower and electronic radio transceiver. The device will ensure cell phone service for Freakfest attendees.… Read more »

The Edgewater Hotel’s developers took a major step toward beginning the project when the Wisconsin Court of Appeals backed the Madison City Council’s decision to move the development forward Thursday. The Court of Appeals reiterated the council’s decision to allow the Edgewater to build on a lakefront site in the… Read more »

The Dane County Board of Supervisors personnel and finance committee met with the Board of Estimates Wednesday to review cuts within the county executive’s cabinet, delinquency collections and budgets for the upcoming recall elections. A highlight of the agenda was the discussion on changes in the Department of Administration’s operating… Read more »

NAKOOSA TRAIL: Battery Madison resident Dandrea Fultz, 19, was arrested for battery and disorderly conduct in the Wal-Mart parking lot on Nakoosa Trail. Fultz’s victim, an 18-year-old woman, suffered several small cuts on her face and one inside an ear, an MPD report said. According to the report, the suspect… Read more »

The Madison Arts Commission took steps to increase Madison youth and students’ access to poetry and other art forms with projects including the nomination of the next poet laureate and the poetry on Madison Metro Transit buses project at its meeting Tuesday. Fabu Carter Brisco, the city’s current poet laureate,… Read more »

The Madison Children’s Museum announced Tuesday it has been named the recipient of a prestigious national award, propelling the local favorite into the national spotlight. The museum was one of 10 museums and libraries that received the 2011 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, awarded by the Institute for… Read more »

The Madison Board of Education unanimously approved a $3.5 million increase for the Madison Metropolitan School District’s 2012 budget Monday night. The board approved a budget adjustment that increased the original budget of $369 million by $3.5 million. According to the 2011-12 budget update from the district, the adjustment covers… Read more »

View Shootings in Madison in a larger map GAMMON LANE Homicide Update A suspect in a May 2011 homicide case was taken into custody across state lines Monday. A 31-year-old male was shot last May in the area of 1100 Gammon Lane, a Madison Police Department report said. An initial… Read more »

Members of a city commission voted against an amendment to increase funding in Madison’s budget to the Overture Center by $500,000 after a lengthy debate Monday night. The Board of Estimates considered this and multiple other amendments to Mayor Paul Soglin’s operating budget during the meeting. Ald. Mike Verveer, District… Read more »

Madison Metropolitan School District Superintendent Dan Nerad has proposed about $3.5 million in additional spending on top of the school district’s current budget for 2012. MMSD spokesperson Ken Syke said about $2.5 million of that money will come from sources previously unaccounted for, but income taxes in the City of… Read more »

Frank Productions and the Madison Police Department released details about the Freakfest entertainment schedule and costume contest and reviewed safety precautions at a press conference Monday morning. Charlie Goldstone, spokesperson for Frank Productions, said the event’s famed costume contest will be as high-stakes as ever, with thousands of participants expected.… Read more »

Members of the Madison City Council are proposing to add $1 million in spending to the mayor’s budget for 2012, $500,000 of which will go to the Overture Center. The council proposed 29 amendments that will add a total of $1 million of spending to Mayor Paul Soglin’s $250.4 million… Read more »

The Dane County District Attorney’s office believes a city employees’s accusation that she was sexually assaulted by a Madison alder, but will not pursue the case because of insufficient evidence. Assistant DA Shelly Rusch said although the district attorney’s office will not follow up on the allegations of sexual assault… Read more »

Seven families on Madison’s east side filed a lawsuit against a local producer of machinery and parts, claiming the company has released chemicals that are contaminating their homes. The families allege the chemical releases have contaminated the groundwater beneath their homes and migrated up through the soil, allowing the chemicals… Read more »

Madison resident and first openly gay Presbyterian minister Scott Anderson has received a mixed reception nationwide to his historic ordination earlier this month, with some repercussions coming from a conservative church in Sacramento, Calif. The Fremont Presbyterian Church in Sacramento decided last Sunday to formally break with the Presbyterian Church… Read more »

The city’s Downtown Coordinating Committee heard an update on Freakfest and reviewed the city’s increased focus on underage drinking at the event, as well as the possibility of bringing larger acts to Madison in future years. A major issue that the Madison Police Department is working to address is house… Read more »

ROCKEFELLER LANE — BATTERY A dispute over money on Facebook turned into a physical faceoff Wednesday night when the two women involved brought their boyfriends to confront each other on Rockefeller Lane, according to a Madison Police Department incident report. According to an MPD report, one of the men brought… Read more »

The city’s Urban Design Commission heard the initial plans for a new student housing complex which developers said was designed with a keen eye on student life. In his first meeting with the commission, JLA Architects representative Joseph Lee gave an informational presentation on his plans for a new four-story… Read more »

Members of the city’s alcohol licensing body called for review of the entry policies in certain Madison bars, including the campus-area Logan’s Bar, after allegations of discriminatory policies were raised.During Wednesday’s Alcohol License Review Committee meeting, Ald. Shiva Bidar-Sielaff, District 5, said the discussion on the fact that some bars… Read more »

A New York Times travel blogger announced Monday online readers had chosen Madison over several other contending cities as the next destination for his “Frugal Traveler” column. The city received 40 percent of the total votes cast in the contest and will welcome writer Seth Kugel as he visits the… Read more »

City and county leaders announced a new joint initiative Wednesday, which will focus on addressing increasing heroin usage and criminal incidents in the area, which they said have reached “epidemic” proportions. The plan, which was announced by Madison Mayor Paul Soglin and Dane County Executive Joe Parisi in a joint press… Read more »

While downtown residents’ reactions to the proposed final stage of the State Street redevelopment plan have been mixed, businesses occupying the 100 block could be evicted without compensation as a result of the plan.Ald. Mike Verveer, District 4, said the businesses housed in the buildings on the block of State… Read more »

After the governor signed concealed carry into law, Madison city officials unanimously approved an ordinance Tuesday to prohibit weapons in all city buildings. The approved city ordinance imposes licensing restrictions in Madison and requires that buildings post signs at their entrances to inform citizens weapons are not allowed on the… Read more »

STATE STREETDamaged Property The Madison Police Department responded to a call from the Orpheum Theatre Sunday night after a highly intoxicated 20-year-old patron pushed over and broke an antique water fountain valued at $50,000, according to a police report. A member of the Orpheum staff witnessed the event, and the… Read more »

A city commission approved the construction of an outdoor beer garden area that would be open to the public at Hotel Red across from Camp Randall during Monday night’s meeting. At a meeting of Madison’s Plan Commission Hotel Red owner Mike Erickson said the outdoor seating area would be located… Read more »

Proposed renovations to a section of State Street and North Fairchild Street sparked debate among Madison residents at a meeting last night. Members of the 100 Block Foundation presented more specific details concerning the project to the Downtown Neighborhood Association. George Austin, project manager of the 100 Block Foundation, stressed… Read more »

Sen. Herb Kohl, D-Wisc., announced today that Wisconsin received $20 million in grants from the Department of Transportation to improve transit systems as wells as replace and repair buses. According to a statement from Kohl’s office, Madison will receive $5,160,800 of this grant money to upgrade the Metro transportation system.… Read more »

In the midst of what Madison officials are characterizing as a particularly tough budgetary year, the city could receive around $28,000 less than originally requested as reimbursement for police costs incurred during the protests at the Capitol.According to an email from Nicholas Zavos which was sent to Madison alders, the governmental relations… Read more »

BROOM STREETExtortion A man stole a 23-year-old Madison Area Technical College student’s phone and then used it to extort the victim’s mother on Wednesday, according to a Madison Police Department report. The man called the victim’s mother and told her she’d need to pay at least $50 to get the… Read more »

Former U.S. Senator Russ Feingold visited campus Friday to express his support for the Occupy Wall Street demonstrations, saying the “recklessness” of Wall Street executives has been detrimental in citizens’ lives.Feingold distinguished himself from other Democrats who had not actively spoken in favor of the movement, saying the moment was… Read more »

Members of a city association met Thursday night to begin the preliminary discussions for this year’s Mifflin Street Block Party.Associated Students of Madison Legislative Affairs Chair Hannah Somers attended the Mifflin Neighborhood Association meeting to discuss the involvement of students in the development of this year’s annual party. She said… Read more »

A mock election conducted by the Madison City Clerk’s Office Tuesday intended to test out the effects of the voter ID bill found voters would have to wait significantly longer to cast their ballots, which some city officials said could turn voters away from the polls. According to a statement… Read more »

Despite the recent passage of a state-wide concealed carry law, the city attorney’s office announced this week it will continue to allow Madison Metro to implement its long-standing policy of prohibiting weapons on buses. While Gov. Scott Walker officially signed concealed carry into law earlier this summer and it will go… Read more »

A city committee discussed the practical applications gained from Tuesday’s mock election, which aimed to test the best methods of implementing voter ID laws in the city. City Clerk Maribeth Witzel-Behl described some of the difficulties she encountered during the test but said she also believed that the mock election… Read more »

Following cuts in funding for the Alcohol Policy Coordinator from the University of Wisconsin, Mayor Paul Soglin said the role would likely face a revamping in the scope of its focus in the near future.The coordinator’s role is expected to expand to address the growing drug concerns in the city,… Read more »

A group of leaders in the Madison arts community convened to consider the next steps to address budget cuts for the Overture Center in the city’s budget, which members said could mean further cuts in staffing.Mayor Paul Soglin opted to decrease the city’s Overture Center grant from the anticipated $1.9… Read more »

A board of Madison business owners voiced concerns about recent crime outside of State Street establishments and reservations surrounding the implementation of the concealed carry law in November.The Greater State Street Business Association met last night to discuss the mayor’s decision to replace the benches on the 500 Block, Halloween… Read more »

HAMILTON STREET Overdose A 26-year-old man fell out of a Porta-Potty after overdosing on heroin Monday, Madison Police Department spokesperson Joel DeSpain said. The man met up with his 19-year-old friend to shoot heroin in the portable facility, according to a police report. DeSpain said the older man ingested a larger… Read more »

Mayor Paul Soglin and the Board of Estimates reviewed how many positions could be eliminated in the 2012 city of Madison operating budget during their meeting Tuesday. A major point of discussion for the board was the creation and elimination of jobs. Soglin said the preservation of jobs and avoiding… Read more »

Members of the Madison community gathered at the City Council Building Tuesday to participate in a mock election intended to educate citizens on the changes brought about by the voter ID law and give city officials an idea of how to best run upcoming elections.Under the voter ID law, voters… Read more »

This week in Madison: Bar IDs, Occupy Madison by The Badger Herald Ryan Rainey and Pam Selman break down the Occupy Madison protests and some new rules at city bars prohibiting patrons from using state ID cards for valid entry.… Read more »

The Bassett Neighborhood Association met yesterday to review two development projects for further renovations to the Echo Tap bar and the construction of a new apartment building at Lorillard Court. The association first discussed the proposed 10-foot extension to the patio and a renovation of the basement of the Echo… Read more »

Mayor Paul Soglin and the city’s Board of Estimates reviewed necessary changes to next year’s municipal budget Monday and considered the consequences these changes could have on city residents and businesses. Soglin said in a message to City Council earlier this week that the state of the economy means 2012… Read more »

Dane County Executive Joe Parisi recently signed a grant to award nearly half a million dollars to Domestic Abuse Intervention Services, a local organization that works to prevent domestic violence. The organization, which operates the only emergency domestic violence center in the county, will receive $462,579 from Parisi’s budget. According… Read more »

Two campus bars are defending their newly implemented policy to only accept drivers licenses and passports as proof of legal age for bar entry. Signs posted outside the entrances of Wando’s Bar and Johnny O’s Sports Lounge, both located on University Avenue, indicate state IDs, which are available to state… Read more »

The Madison State Street Design Oversight Committee decided last night to remove two benches on State Street because of reported problems of loitering and drug dealing. The committee had been working on a design of State Street for a reconstruction project. One of the key issues on the agenda was… Read more »

The Madison Public Library Board reviewed redevelopment plans for the 100 block of State Street last night. During the meeting George Austin, the project manager for the Block 100 Foundation, a local non-profit organization, explained the architectural design of a new project on the 100 block of State Street, which… Read more »

MIFFLIN STREET Battery A Madison Police Department officer was allegedly battered by a homeless man and teamed up against by a second park attendee Wednesday afternoon. The officer estimated the homeless man punched him in the head at least 25 times when the officer approached the suspect as someone who… Read more »

View “Occupy Wall Street” Points of Interest in a larger map University of Wisconsin students and Madison residents will rally in Reynolds Park Friday in protest against corporation-run government as a part of the OccupyMadison movement. Friday’s protest represents the Wisconsin branch’s contribution to the OccupyWallSt. protests that have been… Read more »

Madison business leaders heard small business owners’ grievances caused by changes to Freakfest rules and reviewed security measures for enforcement of the event during a meeting Wednesday. During the Madison Business Improvement District meeting, members said State Street business owners were given four Freakfest tickets to ensure they could access… Read more »

City Council voted last night to revoke a south side bar’s alcohol license after several violent incidents occurred nearby. The council passed the motion for revocation of R’ Place’s liquor license by a vote of 15 to 2, despite several patrons’ insistence that it was a safe and beneficial environment.… Read more »

PROSPECT AVENUE Robbery Early Sunday morning, a 20-year-old woman and male friend were walking down Prospect Avenue when three young men approached them before attacking. According to a Madison Police Department incident report, the men seemed friendly before they attacked. Knocking the couple to the ground, the men took the… Read more »

After a number of burglaries, thefts and armed robberies were linked to the growing use of heroin, officials within Dane County and the city of Madison have made it their priority to finalize the Opiates Task Force. Mayor Paul Soglin’s operating budget sets aside $45,000 to the taskforce in combination… Read more »

Madison’s proposed 2012 Operating Budget includes increased property taxes, cuts to funding for the Overture Center, allocated funds for a drug task force and a position to enforce safety standards in buildings on and off campus, Mayor Paul Soglin announced in a press conference Tuesday.  Soglin said the budget totals… Read more »

While a majority of University of Wisconsin students were reveling in this weekend’s victory at Camp Randall, one group of Madisonians gathered together for a celebration of an entirely different nature, as this weekend marked the 41st anniversary of the Annual Marijuana Harvest Festival. On Sunday, a few hundred rally… Read more »

CAMP RANDALLEjections and ArrestsWhile the crowd was generally well-behaved, the Badger game against Nebraska Saturday still had its fair share of ejections and arrests, University of Wisconsin Police Department Sgt. Aaron Chapin said.Ejections totaled 77 people on Saturday, Chapin said, and 43 of the ejections were students. Thirty-six people were… Read more »

Dane County Executive Joe Parisi released the 2012 preliminary county budget Friday, which aims to make conservation and some social programs a priority while dealing with the deep cuts affecting governments at all levels in the state. The total budget is $490.7 million, a $9.2 million decrease over last year.… Read more »

A Madison commission granted Freakfest 2011 the final go-ahead required from the city to take over State Street with thousands of students and residents eager to take in concerts and other Halloween-themed festivities. Frank Productions Promotions Manager Charlie Goldstone met with the Street Use Staff Commission to discuss the final… Read more »

The city’s Alcohol License Review Committee voted to retract R’ Place bar’s liquor license in response to reports of violence, disorderly conduct and noise complaints for many months. Problems at the bar peaked last weekend when a shooting took place outside of the bar, located on the 1800 block of… Read more »

The City of Madison’s budget conversation shifted away from deep cuts this week after the city received $10 million more in borrowing than the city had original asked for. Last week the city asked to borrow $67 million, according to Madison’s Finance Director David Schmiedicke. The city sold bonds to raise this… Read more »

A Dane County judge ordered a south side bar to remain closed indefinitely after a Madison attorney filed a restraining order against the bar following a shooting last weekend. While attorney Jenifer Zilavy filed the restraining order on Friday right after the shooting near R’ Place, Dane County Judge David… Read more »

Experts are comparing Saturday’s football game against the Nebraska Huskers to last year’s Ohio State game, causing ticket prices to skyrocket well past their base values and forcing University of Wisconsin Police Department officials to put students on high guard for scalping violations and fraudulent tickets. UWPD Sgt. Aaron Chapin said… Read more »

The Board of Estimates rejected two amendments to the Capital Budget — involving the long-contested Tax Increment Financing for the Edgewater Hotel redevelopment project — at a meeting last night. One of the amendments proposed the city increase funding by $12.7 million for financial assistance to expand the hotel project.… Read more »

Nasty weather literally rained on Madison’s parade Sunday morning, causing Ride the Drive to close two hours early. By 12:30 p.m., approximately 1,000 people had turned up for the free family biking event, said Anne Whisner, who helped coordinate this fall’s Ride the Drive. “Usually we have closer to 20,000,”… Read more »

View Shootings in Madison in a larger map A southside bar was the center of a whirlwind of controversy this weekend after a nearby shooting left three people injured, resulting in a city-mandated shutdown of the bar and a Madison Police Department SWAT team searching an apartment seeking links to… Read more »

The Madison Police Department is investigating a shooting that took place early Friday morning which left three injured on the 1800 block of South Park Street. The victims all sustained injuries that were not life-threatening and were taken to University of Wisconsin Hospital, said MPD spokesperson Joel DeSpain. Some injuries… Read more »

City officials laid out preliminary plans to turn East Johnson Street and East Gorham Street from one-way streets to two-way streets during a Capital Neighborhoods meeting Thursday night. Capital Neighborhoods, a membership organization representing five downtown Madison districts, held the forum to discuss the pros and cons of this potential… Read more »

SOUTH PARK STREET Robbery A Madison man claimed a man who robbed him proceeded to sit down and have lunch with him Wednesday afternoon at the Taco Bell on South Park Street, according to a Madison Police report. The victim said a man rapped on the front window of Taco… Read more »

After 10 members of the Dane County Board of Supervisors voted to postpone the county’s bonding resolution, County Executive Joe Parisi is calling upon the members to rethink their actions in order to allow for the implementation of a new emergency communications system. During a press conference Tuesday, Parisi said… Read more »

The Alcohol License Review Committee took steps Wednesday night toward approving the latest proposed revision to an ordinance taking aim at oversized house parties. The ordinance, proposed by Mayor Paul Soglin, works to decrease the amount of large parties that are disruptive, unsafe and illegal by encouraging landlords to take… Read more »

Madison government officials are struggling to draft legislation to address the concealed carry law’s implications for private and public buildings and private property before the law goes into effect Nov. 1. Wisconsin Act 35, which was enacted and published last July, made it legal for residents to carry concealed firearms… Read more »

There are 1,198 confirmed gang members in the Madison area, plus 2,500 suspected members and associates.Madison Police Department’s Crime Prevention Gang Unit is fighting that statistic, and highlighted the reality of gangs in Dane County at a brief discussion before the Common Council last night. Sgt. Amy Schwartz and Officer… Read more »

The driver involved in a fatal Madison Metro bus crash earlier this summer will not be charged, the Dane County District Attorney’s office announced Monday, after the office determined the driver had not been under the influence and the vehicle itself obstructed the driver’s view. In June, Maureen Grant, 58,… Read more »

While the popular theatrics surrounding the Freakfest event are expected to remain largely unchanged in 2011, students making plans for Halloween can expect to pay more for their ticket in the upcoming year. At Thursday’s Downtown Coordinating Committee meeting, members were able to confirm that while a ticket price increase… Read more »

For a city already known for its political activism, vibrant downtown nightlife and the best brats and cheese products around, a recent accolade for education gives Madison residents one more reason to smile. A recent top 100 ranking published in Men’s Health Magazine named Wisconsin’s capital city the best educated… Read more »

The state’s Joint Finance Committee suggested it might not reimburse the city of Madison or Dane County for expenses incurred during the Capitol protests last spring because local officials advocated on a partisan viewpoint that pushed the rallies onward.  A statement from the JFC said operating decisions of the Madison… Read more »

In a ripple effect from the state’s new collective bargaining law, the city of Madison is attempting to push through legislation that would create a new health insurance plan for city firefighters and police officers in hopes of saving the city money. The proposed changes to the healthcare plan would… Read more »

Two city commissions gathered Wednesday evening to hammer out the overlap and inefficiencies between the two groups. Madison’s Urban Design and Landmarks Commissions deliberated what many members called a ping-pong effect — the chosen phrase used to describe proposals that are often sent back and forth between the two commissions.… Read more »

GORHAM STREET Battery Two men were arrested following a suspected battery and robbery of a 22-year-old male on the 200 block of West Gorham Street, a Madison Police Department report said. According to the report, a bicyclist came upon the two suspects kicking the victim in the head and yelled… Read more »

The renovation of several roads and pedestrian walkways adjacent to the University of Wisconsin’s campus was just one of many budgetary breakdowns weighed by the mayor and city alders at Tuesday’s Board of Estimates meeting. Mayor Paul Soglin and members of the board went over the Executive Capital Budget and… Read more »

A new expo is looking to bring together local growers and buyers to strengthen the market for local food in Dane County this month, officials announced Monday. Dane County Executive Joe Parisi announced in a statement that an expo will be organized Sept. 20 so local growers can meet buyers… Read more »

The City of Madison’s capital budget took the first step toward approval Monday night when a few city departments presented part of their 2012 budget to the Board of Estimates. Madison Mayor Paul Soglin set the tone for budgets earlier this month when he said deep cuts would be necessary,… Read more »

Many City Council members still think there is hope for a prominent city project, despite the mayor’s recent efforts to cut funds. Last Tuesday, Mayor Paul Soglin released his proposal for the 2012 capital budget, which included a number of severe cuts. One such cut was to the previously approved $16… Read more »

CAMP RANDALL Badger Game Day Saturday, the Badger Football game against University of Nevada-Las Vegas resulted in a multitude of alcohol-related citations, including underage alcohol, disorderly conduct, possession of a fake ID and assaultive behavior. According to a University of Wisconsin Police Department release of game day statistics, 21 citations… Read more »

Madison hosted the 10th annual Ironman Triathlon Sunday, bringing more than 45,000 spectators to line the streets of the city and watch more than 2,450 triathletes strive toward the finish line in front of the state Capitol. The race began bright and early at 7 a.m., and participants had 17… Read more »

After a lengthy debate over whether to give the Madison Prep Academy for Young Men, an Urban League charter school, a $225,000 planning grant, Madison Board of Education officials decided to stand by their decision to issue the grant. Previously, the board was hesitant in distributing such a large fund to… Read more »

Members of the Mifflin Neighborhood Association evaluated ways to make the 2012 Mifflin Street Block Party safer for the neighborhood and party-goers on Thursday night. At a Mifflin Neighborhood Association meeting, Ald. Mike Verveer, District 4, said the Madison Police Department has recently put together a report outlining the problems… Read more »

This Sunday will mark the 10-year anniversary of the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, and the city of Madison is coming together to commemorate a day in American history that will never be forgotten. This Friday, the Madison Police Department and the Madison Fire Department have coordinated a charity… Read more »

A decision passed down from Tuesday’s City Council meeting could pose additional obstacles for large-scale street events including the famed Mifflin Street Block Party.The Madison City Council voted unanimously to amend the process of obtaining alcohol licenses issued in conjunction with street use permits and also shot down an action… Read more »

Mayor Paul Soglin released the highly-anticipated Executive Capital Budget Tuesday, revealing several of the cuts that will be felt throughout the city in the upcoming year.Soglin said borrowing in the capital budget has become a problem for the city because as the money borrowed has increased, the money was not… Read more »

BADGER PARKWAY Assist Outside Agency Madison police officers Tuesday participated in the pursuit of one of the suspects on Madison’s Most Wanted list, 29-year-old Gilbert Richards of Fitchburg. According to a Madison Police Department report, MPD canine “Slim” was the hero of this investigation. An MPD officer warned Richards, who… Read more »

While the specifics of Madison’s 2012 budget are yet to be revealed, city officials say one thing is certain: Big cuts are coming. Madison Mayor Paul Soglin said discussion regarding the capital budget is almost complete, with close to $60 million in spending cuts, and city officials have just begun… Read more »

In a political landscape dominated by strong characters, Ald. Mike Verveer, District 4, has become one of the reigning personalities adding color to Madison’s City Council. The alder, who served as council president from 2003-2004 and 2007-2008, has been the face of one of the city’s student-heavy districts for more… Read more »

As students return to campus, many may be taking note of new landmarks on campus: several new stations popped up throughout the summer, with red bikes and empty racks where community members could rent bicycles as part of B-Cycle, the city’s newest environmental effort. Despite slight controversy that looked to… Read more »

UW ARBORETUMSexual Assault University of Wisconsin police have a suspect in custody in connection to a sexual assault that took place at 2:30 a.m. Sept. 1 at the UW Arboretum, according to a UWPD statement. Sgt. Aaron Chapin stressed that while the assault took place on campus property, neither the… Read more »

A Madison-based health clinic is investigating whether several thousand former patients were exposed to blood borne diseases after a former nurse used injection devices incorrectly for years. Following an internal review, Dean Clinic found the nurse had improperly used insulin demonstration pens and finger stick devices, both used for diabetes… Read more »

A new proposal spearheaded by Madison Mayor Paul Soglin is looking to crack down on “dangerous” house parties and underage drinking, but a critic of the ordinance said he fears almost any house party could fall under the ordinance’s ambiguous language.  Madison’s Alcohol Policy Coordinator Mark Woulf said the ordinance… Read more »

If the Madison Police Department and Mayor Paul Soglin get their way, the Mifflin Street Block Party will be no more.A report released recently outlined the safety concerns surrounding the 2011 event, including what MPD spokesperson Howard Payne labeled as a number of “concerning issues.” The 2011 Block Party cost MPD… Read more »

Overcrowding and poor lighting are two of city officials’ main concerns with some of Madison’s heavily populated nightlife hot spots following an Aug. 25 downtown walkthrough.  Making their way down State Street and looping back up University Avenue, Madison Mayor Paul Soglin, a group of downtown alders, representatives from several… Read more »

Two suspects remain at large Monday afternoon after a 20-year-old University of Wisconsin student was sexually assaulted near campus early this morning. Although no arrests have been made, police are asking community members to aid in their search for two Hispanic men between 5’4” and 5’7” who allegedly followed the… Read more »

Have you ever wondered who advocates for you at those hours-long City Council meetings? Do they even discuss anything that matters to you? It’s time to meet your alder. Ald. Bridget Maniaci, District 2 Ald. Bridget Maniaci, District 2, claims she is the alder for students and student interests, and… Read more »

For the first time since its inception, Madison’s City Council unanimously approved an amendment to the alcohol ordinance originally intended to limit the number of taverns in downtown Madison. Ald. Scott Resnick, District 8, said the Alcohol License Density Ordinance was enacted with the intention of promoting safety, limiting alcohol… Read more »

After two decades using the same technology, the Dane County 911 Center has begun taking steps to implement a new high-tech computer system in the hopes of improving communication between dispatchers and emergency personnel.According to a statement from Dane County Executive Joe Parisi, the new system will be the “backbone” of the… Read more »

In the past few weeks, Madison Metro and the Madison Police Department made significant progress in their ongoing investigations regarding the bus that killed a University of Wisconsin library employee. On the morning of June 22, Maureen Grant, 58, an employee at Memorial Library, was struck and killed by a… Read more »

MADISON, Wis. (AP) - About 50 firefighters battled a blaze at an apartment building in downtown Madison Thursday. The fire at the Capitol Hill Apartments still burned more than five hours after it began at 5 a.m. Plumes of black smoke and flames could be seen from a distance. Fire… Read more »

Nearly seven months after a driver killed a University of Wisconsin student in an automobile accident, a newly filed criminal complaint obtained by the Wisconsin State Journal alleges the suspect was texting while driving. In the criminal complaint, authorities alleged 20-year-old Stephanie Kanoff of Sun Prairie was texting before she… Read more »

What began as a seemingly uneventful and predictable mayoral race throughout the latter half of 2010 quickly turned tides as an unexpected candidate — known as the only person in the city who could possibly beat out former Mayor Dave Cieslewicz — joined the ticket. Following the Feb. 15 primary,… Read more »

Madison Police Department officers were dispatched to the Langdon Street neighborhood Wednesday after a tense situation on a rooftop culminated in a woman falling to the ground and being rushed to the hospital. While MPD spokesperson Joel DeSpain said the department only releases formal incident reports on actions that are… Read more »

Mifflin Street Armed Robbery A 23-year-old man was robbed at gun point late Wednesday night around 11:30 p.m. according to a Madison Police Department incident report. The victim was walking on the 500 block of Mifflin Street when two men and a woman approached him. One of the men put… Read more »

Upon further review of an incident involving openly carried firearms in public, the city attorney dropped disorderly conduct charges Thursday that were filed against five individuals last September. Wisconsin Carry, Inc., a right to carry activist group, released a statement announcing the dropped charges Thursday. According to the statement, Chris… Read more »

Madison Police Department officers responded Wednesday after an individual fell 150 feet from a Langdon Street roof, an incident witnessed by a gathered crowd of University of Wisconsin students. MPD Lt. Marylou Ricksecker confirmed the individual was not a student but was a resident of Langdon Street. She said the… Read more »

After a slew of controversial commentary and testimony regarding a rental-showing ordinance designed to push back the amount of time before a landlord can show an apartment, a city committee concluded the long-standing controversial proposed ordinance needed further discussion. Ald. Bridget Maniaci, District 2, has several times gone before the… Read more »

Republican members of the state’s budget writing committee voted to dismantle Wisconsin regional transit authority systems Wednesday, a move that went against the governor’s proposal and upset local officials in Dane County. RTAs are public bodies run by a board of directors with the duty of operating or contracting a… Read more »

After both the City of Madison and Dane County received a number of complaints about political posters hanging in public building windows in wake of this year’s mass protests at the Capitol about the budget repair law, a liaison committee between the two municipalities effectively banned all hanging signage in… Read more »

The Madison Metropolitan School District is under scrutiny following a series of complaints filed by parents questioning the legitimacy of the process to identify which students are eligible for the district’s gifted and talented program. Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction spokesperson Patrick Gasper said DPI received complaints from parents claiming… Read more »

R’ Place gives an OK first impression. Some regulars buzz in the corner, telling stories about their day as they sip their drinks. There is a game on TV and the liquor cabinet is fairly stocked. On an early Thursday evening in March, it’s nice, but nothing exceptionally remarkable or… Read more »

MIFFLIN STREET BLOCK PARTY Incident Roundup The Madison Police Department Monday released a report tallying up the total number of reported incidents from Saturday’s Mifflin Street Block Party. According to the report, MPD arrested 162 individuals who were cited for 204 tentative charges. Twelve of those arrested were detained in jail.… Read more »

After initial approval and finalizations were made to sign a contract establishing a regional food market in Madison, plans for the 12-block public market were delayed Tuesday in order to allow the city’s new mayor and team of City Council representatives the chance to revisit the proposal’s details. The City… Read more »

In a world recently redefined by the power and prevalence of social media, members of the City Council and city staff are taking to the drawing boards to outline plans for appropriate media use by alders. In February, the City Council Organizational Committee created a subcommittee to develop policies and… Read more »

A former University of Wisconsin student hanged himself in the Dane County Jail Friday after being sentenced on charges of child pornography Thursday. The Dane County Coroner’s office announced Monday the man identified as the hanged inmate was Rajib Mitra, 33, after initial autopsy results concluded the death was caused… Read more »

An exceptional level of violence at Saturday’s Mifflin Street Block Party led Mayor Paul Soglin to say the future of the event could hang in serious jeopardy. At a Monday press conference, Soglin reacted to the stabbing of a 21-year-old University of Wisconsin student and what he said was a… Read more »

A city committee unanimously approved plans for a downtown bar’s addition of an outdoor volleyball court during the summer and OK’d the relocation of the Central Library at a meeting Monday night. The city’s Plan Commission gave Logan’s bar a final nod of approval to begin construction of its outdoor… Read more »

Following a public input session last week, the University of Wisconsin withdrew its proposal Monday for changes to major campus bus routes that would have diminished services to Lakeshore housing. Madison Metro General Manager Chuck Kamp said the company received notice from UW Transit Services that the changes brought forth… Read more »

This year’s Mifflin Street Block Party ended on an unsettling note as the crowds swelled to record numbers, bottles and cases of beer flooded the street and police said two partygoers were stabbed. While the stabbings were unrelated and occurred about two hours apart, both victims were sent to a… Read more »

Despite previous concerns the renovations on the city’s Central Library might not go through after Mayor Paul Soglin came to office, the mayor released a set of fundraising goals Friday and said he was optimistic the plan would be completed on time. Officials from the Madison Central Public Library redevelopment… Read more »

As the drinks continued to pour, Madison Police Department officials reported two stabbings during the later hours of the Mifflin Street Block Party. The first incident involved a stabbing outside on the 500 block of Mifflin Street around 5:12 p.m, according to an MPD report. The report said the victim,… Read more »

It’s that time of year again. Students are making their first rounds of runs to the liquor stores, city technicians are wiring up security cameras and Mifflin-area residents are preparing their houses to become party-proof: It’s the Mifflin Street Block Party. While students are readying themselves for what first-time partygoers… Read more »

City representatives voiced concerns about creating a comprehensive and balanced redistricting proposal after examining the freshly redefined aldermanic maps drawn up as part of Madison’s redistricting process. In an effort to gain the City Council’s reaction to the latest draft plans, Madison city planner Brian Grady offered district alders three proposals,… Read more »

Despite initial concerns following Mayor Paul Soglin’s first few weeks in office, construction on the renovated Central Library is scheduled to begin on time following several days of discussions between city and library officials. Following an initial meeting between Soglin and representatives from the library staff Tuesday, a timeline featuring… Read more »

As development for Madison’s Central Park continues, city officials purchased a piece of manufacturing land on the city’s east side Thursday, which sparked controversy over its asking price. The $1.63 million price tag for the 204 S. Ingersoll St. property is about two and a half times the assessed number… Read more »

After the planners of this weekend’s historic Mifflin Street Block Party determined they would have to cut down on the number of live music stages because the expected revenue from beer sales at the event would be lower than anticipated, a number of bands cut from the set took to… Read more »

The city’s redistricting process took the project to the next level Wednesday night as a city committee approved a number of map proposals to be brought before the public for input before the final selection is made. After several weeks of meetings came out with a variety of possible redistricting… Read more »

A popular downtown bar restaurant received approval from a city committee Wednesday evening to move the establishment closer to campus. The Alcohol License Review Committee granted State Street’s Buffalo Wild Wings request to transfer from its current location to a currently unoccupied space in East Campus Mall’s University Square building,… Read more »

Madison Police Department officers are teaming up with city officials and will make combating underage drinking at Saturday’s annual Mifflin Street Block Party a top priority. Mayor Paul Soglin said allowing partygoers of legal drinking age to consume alcohol in the streets — the biggest change to this year’s party… Read more »

Students see it every weekend. A few Madison Police Department uniforms come into a bar, begin carding people, and write ticket after ticket after ticket.But it appears that it’s happening less and less.City cops are on track to hand out significantly fewer tickets to nine popular campus bars this academic… Read more »

Following scares that a proposal for a city-wide bike sharing program would be squelched because of Mayor Paul Soglin’s budgetary concerns, the new mayor negotiated an agreement Wednesday to allow for an on-schedule implantation of the program. Soglin said he came to a fiscally responsible agreement with Trek Bicycle to… Read more »

Members of the campus community came out against proposed changes to campus-area bus service, saying they were concerned the modifications could be a disservice to students and could introduce safety concerns for some residents. At a Tuesday night forum, University of Wisconsin students provided Madison Metro representatives with feedback on… Read more »

After completing his first week in office, Mayor Paul Soglin said he fears the state of the city’s budgets through 2012 could be even grimmer than previously anticipated following a number of official briefings. Soglin said local governments are typically concerned as the budgetary process begins to transition from one… Read more »

City officials are one step closer to creating a stronger student voice for representation after a city commission agreed to adopt a proposal to keep certain segments of the student population together during a hefty redistricting process.Ald. Scott Resnick, District 8, said a number of proposals he had brought to… Read more »

The owner of a south-side Madison bar presented his case in front of a city committee, defending his liquor license against a complaint seeking to revoke the establishment’s liquor license following some violent and disorderly disruptions over the past few months. The city’s Alcohol License Review Committee has held hearings… Read more »

With the annual Mifflin Street Block Party approaching this weekend, representatives from the event’s sponsor, Majestic Live, teamed up with city officials from Madison’s police and fire departments to tell Mifflin residents Monday how to prepare for a fun and safe weekend. In the annual neighborhood meeting, Ald. Mike Verveer,… Read more »

UNIVERSITY AVENUE Battery Police were dispatched to Segredo early Sunday morning to mediate a fight. According to a Madison Police Department report, the fight began because a 32-year-old Madison man was hit in the face with a beer bottle. One suspect was detained, but witnesses could not identify him as… Read more »

A Madison garden group is asking the city to reconsider plans for a community garden and green roof to become part of the design budget of the new Madison Central Public Library.Members of Madison’s Downtown Community Gardens Group are asking for the change after finding the proposal could be implemented… Read more »

Three late-night campus bus services will have different routes and stop times by next semester, ultimately resulting in less frequent service to the Lakeshore residence hall area, Madison Metro announced late last week. Saferide routes 81 and 82 would be redrawn for the first time since the late 1990s to… Read more »

The bike friendly city of Madison may have to wait a little longer for its shared-ride bicycle system planned for a May release after Mayor Paul Soglin announced it may not be economically feasible. In an interview with The Badger Herald, Soglin said he needed to reevaluate the program for… Read more »

NORTH BLAIR STREET Underage Possession A 20-year-old Madison man was charged with resisting a police officer and underage person in possession after failing to comply with officers’ orders to cease consuming alcohol Monday evening. After police responded to an initial call concerning Ryan Shenk’s physical well-being after consuming excessive amounts of… Read more »

After encountering a number of obstacles in the process to revamp the format of Madison’s famed Mifflin Street Block Party, a city committee’s unanimous approval of the plan may soon give students reason to celebrate. Madison’s Street Use Commission approved Majestic Live’s plan for the event, which includes giving wrist… Read more »

The University of Wisconsin Law School has joined forces with local property management owners and city officials to launch a program geared toward students that will aid first-time renters in talking through problems with landlords and questions with renting. UW clinical law professor Mitch said the Student Tenant Education and… Read more »

Madison saw a historic changeover in leadership Tuesday when the city once again inaugurated Mayor Paul Soglin for his third stint in the office, ringing in a fresh series of challenges for the new set of City Council members to consider in the coming weeks. After being recognized for his… Read more »

When most students think of Langdon Street, safety is rarely the first word that comes to mind, but one Madison Police Department officer’s entire job is making sure students can walk and play in the area free from harm.MPD officer Grant Humerickhouse assumed the role of Langdon Street Neighborhood Officer… Read more »

STATE STREET Drug Investigation After being stopped for inappropriately using a skateboard on the sidewalk and in the middle of the roadway along State Street mall Sunday afternoon, an 18-year-old La Crosse man made Madison Police Department officers suspicious he was trying to cover up a more serious offense.  Tyler Zink… Read more »

As the big hand turns to noon today, Madison will be greeted with a fresh management team as Mayor-elect Paul Soglin officially takes office and a new City Council is cycled in. While Soglin said he has been hard at work throughout the past two weeks to ensure a successful… Read more »

The lengthy process of redistricting that has been at the forefront of City Council’s agenda has some alders concerned about preserving strong representation for the student body. Alder-elect Scott Resnick, District 8, said at least two of the proposed preliminary redistricting maps are unacceptable because they would severely fracture the… Read more »

Representatives advocating building a pricey student housing high-rise complex on University Avenue asked for student government officials’ input on the project’s preliminary plans at a meeting Monday evening. The project’s consultant, Bill White, met with the Associated Students of Madison’s Legislative Affairs Committee in place of presenting their plans to… Read more »

After a year of monitoring select repeat drunken drivers with a new system, officials are confident the strategy can help Dane County cut back on drunken driving. In March of 2010, County Executive Kathleen Falk introduced a pilot program using biomarkers, a blood testing technique that measures whether a person has… Read more »

Almost two decades after the trail on the murder of a Madison woman went cold and the investigation slowed, a new criminal charge in the case is credited to the success of the Madison Police Department Cold Case Review Team. In a press conference held Friday, MPD Chief Noble Wray… Read more »

A Madison area college published a report boasting an increased number of graduates and level of satisfaction with education, but with a lower percentage of graduates employed and lower average salaries overall. Madison College’s annual Graduate Employment Report reveals the ups and downs of different statistics related to graduation rate,… Read more »

Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk released a letter Friday calling for the dissolution of a county commission that assesses local water quality management — a commission that served as a key issue during the recent county executive race. Falk said in the letter the Capitol Area Regional Planning Commission “has… Read more »

Plans for the Mifflin Street Block Party have been significantly scaled back following an announcement from the Madison Police Department that its officers would not enforce attendees only being allowed to drink alcoholic beverages bought at the event. The event’s sponsors, Scott Lesie and Matt Gerding of Majestic Live, met… Read more »

The Dane County Board voted in a new interim Dane County Clerk Thursday evening, arguing the current political climate throughout the state calls for an experienced and knowledgeable candidate to fill the seat that has been vacant since February. Acting County Clerk Karen Peters, who has worked as a clerk… Read more »

Following an abundance of public input, a city committee approved a preliminary plan outlining the city’s sustainability initiatives with a five to three vote at a meeting Wednesday evening. In September 2004, a task force Mayor Dave Cieslewicz formed developed the blueprint for Madison’s Sustainable Design and Energy Future. When… Read more »

A city commission delayed action on an entertainment and street use permit for the Mifflin Street Block Party Wednesday, asking the event’s new sponsors to further explain and finalize details for the party’s schedule and set-up plan. The event’s sponsors, Scott Lesie and Matt Gerding of Majestic Live, said they… Read more »

NORTH SHORE DRIVE Weapons Violation A Madison Police officer found a homeless man inside a parked car early Tuesday morning and discovered multiple weapons in his backseat. The officer was on a routine patrol when she found 25-year-old Trenton Sweatman inside his car around 12:30 a.m. at Brittingham Park, a Madison… Read more »

City officials said student representation on Madison’s City Council could become more consolidated if redistricting efforts extend a student-heavy district further west. Members of the city’s Ad Hoc Reapportionment and Redistricting Committee delved further into drawing revised aldermanic districts after the 2010 Census found Madison’s population had risen to approximately… Read more »

A city commission raised concerns about how a proposal for a pedicycle cab service in the downtown area would fit in with the busy downtown atmosphere at a meeting Tuesday evening. The city’s Transit and Parking Commission met Tuesday evening to consider an application from a group of retired Madison Police… Read more »

Community members attended an open house showcasing the newly renovated YWCA downtown facility Tuesday and were asked to use the center’s improvements as encouragement to further work on community projects. The YWCA community center, which houses more than 150 Madisonians each night both through permanent housing and nightly shelters, underwent… Read more »

A local energy company released plans Friday to revamp its response system for utility outages by updating its technology to be more customer-friendly and allow for more efficient company responses. Because of an increase in the use of Internet services through mobile devices and portable technologies, Alliant Energy will allow… Read more »

Low-income Madison families will have an additional option for inexpensive housing following last week’s completion of three years and $16 million of renovation on the historic downtown YWCA. The renovation, meant to update the building to create a more comfortable living quarter while maintaining the former hotel’s historic character, is… Read more »

A number of neighborhood residents raised concerns against preliminary renovation plans that would drastically redefine the Bassett neighborhood if the project proposal is approved through the city process in the coming months. At a Bassett Neighborhood Association meeting Monday night, community members weighed the possibility of expanding upon the Olin-Turville… Read more »

DAYTON STREET Sexual Assault A Madison Police Department report said police are searching for a man who sexually assaulted, punched and choked an 18-year-old woman on the 300 block of West Dayton Street Sunday evening. When the victim turned down the man’s suggestions they engage in sexual acts, the suspect… Read more »

Continuing the county’s long-running reputation as a leader in the green energy industry in Wisconsin, Dane County officials released plans last week to begin running the county’s trucks by transforming landfill trash into inexpensive gas. Last Thursday, Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk announced a new green energy project in Dane County… Read more »

Despite previous attacks against Dane County’s emergency response center’s management following a local homicide two years ago, the center is receiving national recognition for raising the bar for technology, training and response time to 911 calls in recent years. The Dane County 911 Center earned the Center for Excellence accreditation… Read more »

The newly revised plan for the Madison Central Library is in the final stages of completion as designers held the sixth and final public meeting Thursday to present their revisions. Doug Hursh, director of design for Potter Lawson and Traci Lesneski, lead interior designer of the project, walked the audience… Read more »

 Paul Soglin announced his campaign for mayor, telling Madison’s voters he is “happier as mayor.” After going back to work at 9 a.m. Wednesday morning to meet with his transition staff and alders after a long night of watching election results Tuesday, Soglin has proven that claim must be true… Read more »

LAKELAWN PLACE Robbery A 23-year-old Madison man was attacked and robbed as he was walking downtown Wednesday morning, a Madison Police Department Report said. The victim said his attackers punched him in the face, causing him to fall, and held him on the ground using their feet while the others took… Read more »

A city commission unanimously approved final plans for the redevelopment of a city library and received initial information on a prospective project that might result in the deconstruction of a century-old chapel at a meeting Wednesday evening. The plans for a redeveloped Madison Central Public Library — which have been… Read more »

Representatives from Bethel Lutheran Church revealed plans to officially open the option to either move the historic Steensland House outside the Mansion Hill historic district or demolish the landmark at a neighborhood association meeting Wednesday evening. When members from the committee met with the neighborhood association March 2, they were… Read more »

HAYES ROAD Kidnapping A 26-year-old Madison man was arrested Tuesday after violently kidnapping his ex-girlfriend and holding her hostage at gunpoint until Madison Police Department officials were able to locate the suspect. Police officials received a concerned phone call from a 30-year-old Madison woman’s family saying the woman disappeared with no… Read more »

Politicos predicted it would be a blowout. They were right. The political atmosphere surrounding Wisconsin brought more than 184,000 to the polls in Dane County, something Rep. Joe Parisi called a big factor in his victory. Parisi, who gathered approximately 70 percent of the vote against Sup. Eileen Bruskewitz, said… Read more »

One of the most contested seats on Madison’s City Council will belong to Ald. Bridget Maniaci for two more years after a hard-won campaign to continue representing the city’s near east side. Maniaci won the race for District 2 alder over her challenger Sam Stevenson by four percentage points, taking… Read more »

Scott Resnick claimed the student-dominated District 8 seat on the Madison City Council Tuesday night, a victory he attributes to intense grassroots campaigning. Resnick edged out challenger Kyle Szarzynski, earning 1,180 votes to 880. Resnick said he was humbled by the victory and plans to “hit the ground running” to… Read more »

In response to a Supreme Court decision which ruled that corporations have free speech rights, a grassroots movement advocating a Constitutional amendment through referendums on Tuesday’s ballot drew sizeable support from city and county voters. The referendum to ask voters to support an amendment to limit the rights of corporations… Read more »

District 2 race As the race for the chance to represent District 2 in the upcoming City Council term comes to a close, voters will have the choice between University of Wisconsin graduate student Sam Stevenson and incumbent Ald. Bridget Maniaci. Throughout the past two years, Maniaci has focused on… Read more »

Despite a local blogger’s complaints, a local attorney said Monday that some political signs are permitted within city buildings. While Isthmus blogger David Blaska denounced signs displayed in the windows of the City County and Madison Municipal buildings Sunday and staged a protest Monday morning in response, City Attorney Michael… Read more »

Madison Area Technical College announced its faculty members earn more than the employees at  University of Wisconsin System universities, with the exception of the Madison campus. According to data provided by the American Association of University Professors, the average MATC faculty salary is $79,030. At UW campuses the average is… Read more »

Two local cab companies will team up for Tuesday’s Election Day and offer free rides to polling places in Madison and the surrounding areas in an effort to promote democracy throughout Wisconsin. Union Cab made the decision to offer free rides through its “Democracy in Motion” program two weeks ago… Read more »

With Election Day looming, Madison’s mayoral candidates battled over the best way to confront the biggest issues facing the city and took stabs at each other’s records as mayor during a televised debate Friday. Both former mayor Paul Soglin and incumbent Dave Cieslewicz said the state budget will shape the… Read more »

JUNCTION ROAD Extortion According to an incident report from the Madison Police Department, a female woman was pulled over by an unmarked silver sedan with red and blue lights. Two white males, in their late teens or early twenties approached the victim and she handed money over in accordance with the… Read more »

Faculty at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point voted with an overwhelming majority last week to join the American Federation of Teachers — a move to unionize that faculty said would not have been nearly as strong without Gov. Scott Walker’s collective bargaining bill. With a vote of 283-15, UW-SP communications… Read more »

The Madison mayoral candidates reached out to students Thursday evening at an event hosted by the College Democrats, who asked the long-time competitors to lay out a summary of their past accomplishments and visions for the city’s future. Mayor Dave Cieslewicz said the standing room-only turnout for the event was… Read more »

A city committee moved forward with Madison’s redistricting process Thursday by assessing mapped proposals for new district boundaries that will be presented to the public in the coming weeks. The Ad Hoc Committee debated various issues with redistricting such as using physical barriers as boundaries and enhancing minority participation through… Read more »

REGENT STREET Robbery Three teenage boys remain at large after robbing two of their acquaintances of money and drugs at Hoyt Park on Regent Street Wednesday evening. According to a Madison Police Department report, the two victims offered different accounts as to what exactly happened — one alleged they were threatened… Read more »

With the mayoral election less than a week away, the incumbent candidate received a significant last-minute endorsement to his campaign Thursday. Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk announced her official endorsement of Mayor Dave Cieslewicz for mayor, adding to his broad base of supporters including AFSCME Local 60, Fair Wisconsin and… Read more »

Google ended its year-long nationwide competition Wednesday to implement a new ultra high-speed broadband Internet in one U.S. city, upsetting Madison’s efforts by choosing Kansas City, Kans. as the Google Fiber winner. Madison was one of hundreds of cities fighting for the chance to be chosen in Google’s February 2010… Read more »

After being denied the chance to have one of several statewide budgetary hearings held in Madison, city officials took matters into their own hands Wednesday evening by hosting their own public hearing to educate Madisonians on the effects of Gov. Scott Walker’s budget repair bill. Mayor Dave Cieslewicz said residents… Read more »

Candidates vying for the opportunity to represent Madison’s second district following Tuesday’s general elections criticized each other’s backgrounds and offered up suggestions to improve the campus-area neighborhood during a forum Wednesday evening. University of Wisconsin graduate student Sam Stevenson and the district’s current Ald. Bridget Maniaci went head to head… Read more »

Students attending Madison’s historic Mifflin Street block party next month might see large changes in the event’s structure and regulations, as city officials introduced the possibility of lifting the open bottle ordinance and creating a mini-Lollapalooza atmosphere at a meeting Wednesday. Representatives from Majestic Live, the event’s sponsor, said planners… Read more »

Madison’s City Council approved a new zoning code that would maintain height restrictions and change downtown density at a Tuesday night meeting, ending years of deliberation on the policy. Alders debated the new code until about 1 a.m. Wednesday morning, when they voted 18 to 1 to approve the ordinance.… Read more »

Following a 2010 United States Supreme Court decision to consider corporations to be citizens with free speech rights in campaign financing, a corporation plans to run for Congress to test the decision. In an action of part satire, part initiative, Murray Hill Incorporated, a public relations firm based in Maryland,… Read more »

Gov. Scott Walker announced Tuesday morning that Wisconsin will apply for $150 million in federal funds to improve the Hiawatha Amtrak railroad connecting Milwaukee and Chicago. “Upgrading the Hiawatha line will save the state money and improve rail service for Wisconsin customers,” Walker said in a statement. “The state will… Read more »

SOUTH PARK STREET Homicide Update Although Madison Police Department officials said they have a “person of interest” in custody for the open homicide case from 318 S. Park St. this past weekend, investigators are still looking for additional suspects they believe were involved in the fatal stabbing. MPD spokesperson Joel DeSpain… Read more »

Madison Police Department officials arrested a “person of interest” Monday in the fatal stabbing of a Madison man on South Park Street this past weekend. Bernard J. Brown, 27, of Madison was taken into custody without incident on a probation warrant after evidence linked Brown to the homicide of Clifton… Read more »

City officials are trying to put the brakes on the impact of the budget repair bill after the city attorney discovered more alleged legal discrepancies in its recent passing. City Attorney Michael May issued a memo to city officials Monday saying he believes there are legal grounds that prevent the… Read more »

Madison school district officials announced Friday teachers have until April 15 to withdraw fake doctors notes submitted to attend protests at the Capitol more than a month ago. After negotiations with Madison Teachers Inc., the district decided to give teachers the mid-April deadline, Madison Metropolitan School District spokesperson Ken Syke… Read more »

Faculty at a Madison area college ratified contract amendments cutting pay increases to prevent layoffs despite concerns on how the new contracts could negatively affect students. Madison Area Technical College’s Board of Education voted Thursday to allow the ratifications that establish pay freezes or cut pay raises and increase employee… Read more »

LANGDON STREET Battery A financial dispute about the popular “Teach Me How to Bucky” video resulted in a fight early Friday morning, a Madison Police report said. Andrew Schecher, a 21-year-old Madison man, allegedly helped one of the victims, a 22-year-old Madison man, with filming the video, and was unhappy with… Read more »

Madison Police Department officials are investigating the apparent homicide of a 23-year-old Madison man who was stabbed to death a few blocks off the University of Wisconsin campus early Sunday morning. According to an MPD report, officers were dispatched to Meriter Hospital around 2:15 a.m. on Sunday after an unknown… Read more »

Candidates fighting for the chance to represent constituents in Madison’s downtown campus area presented differing views on how to balance the area’s nightlife and what kind of remedies they would impose to counter the cuts in state funding mandated by Gov. Scott Walker’s proposed budget at a candidate forum Thursday… Read more »

Candidates vying for the opportunity to represent the city’s predominantly student district in the City Council said campus safety issues would shape their agendas if elected into office April 5. State-Langdon Neighborhood Association President and District 8 candidate Scott Resnick said campus safety is the “single most important issue in… Read more »

A city commission decided on seven communities of interest throughout Madison that require special attention to ensure the integrity of their voices are preserved at the polls. The lengthy and extensive process of reapportionment and redistricting was discussed at Wednesday’s Ad Hoc Committee meeting, where members evaluated communities of interest… Read more »

One of the world’s largest women’s apparel retailers agreed to move its headquarters to the Capitol East District — a move city officials say will jump-start Madison’s economy.Shopbop’s new headquarters in Madison is expected to be part of the beginning of a plan expected to revitalize Madison’s Capitol East District… Read more »

The City Council ratified a number of new city contracts for Madison’s major public unions through the end of 2014 at a meeting Tuesday evening as some of the Council’s members questioned the mayor’s ethics in pushing the contracts forward. Cieslewicz announced March 15 a tentative agreement had been reached… Read more »

In an effort to create a more sustainable environment while maintaining and expanding Madison’s job force, Madison officials officially launched the city’s Green Madison Program Tuesday through a multi-million dollar grant subsidized by the federal government. Mayor Dave Cieslewicz announced an energy efficiency program that would allow the public to… Read more »

Members of a city commission met Monday to address public concerns about how Gov. Scott Walker’s controversial budget repair bill will affect Madison’s pubic transit system, including Metro bus lines. Regional Transportation Authority board member Steve Hiniker reminded those in attendance that the bill will cut off millions of dollars… Read more »

After initial concern over the height and proximity of a 14-story building planned for Library Mall, designers for St. Paul’s University Catholic Center presented a revised plan Monday that significantly scales back the height. The project’s architects, Bob Shipley and Matthew Alderman, told the city’s Joint Southeast Campus Area Committee… Read more »

As the April 5 election date for City Council candidates approaches, Mayor Dave Cieslewicz publicly announced his endorsement of District 8 candidate Scott Resnick to represent the city’s predominantly student district. Resnick officially received Cieslewicz’s endorsement Monday — a sign of support Resnick said he believes will strongly aid in pushing… Read more »

Throughout the past several days, the Madison Metropolitan School District has been battling through a number of implications on the district’s staff and programs as a result of the governor’s proposed budget and budget repair bill. Early last week, the district’s announcement of its vision for an all-male charter school… Read more »

Following the passage of Gov. Scott Walker’s budget repair bill, Madison officials have once again taken steps to halt the bill’s implementation in the city by extending contracts with one of the community’s largest unions. Representatives from AFSCME Local 60 approached Mayor Dave Cieslewicz last week with proposals for new… Read more »

As the April 5 election date draws nearer, candidates running for mayor and Dane County executive seats have spent weeks building their key stances to serve as the foundations for their campaigns — all promising greater change to the community if elected. To allow voters another look at the possible… Read more »

While recents tests on Madison’s public drinking water found that a cancer-causing contaminant is present in a majority of the city’s water wells, city officials are urging residents not to be alarmed. Joseph Grande, water quality manager for Madison’s Water Utility, said the city tested all of the wells currently… Read more »

LAKE STREET Weapons Violation Madison Police officers responded to a call from a local hospital reporting that a 52-year-old man had been jumped and stabbed while walking on Lake Street March 10. The victim had a stab wound to the back and required numerous stitches, a Madison Police Department report said.… Read more »

MONONA (AP) - A man and a woman have been rescued from Lake Monona after falling through the ice while fishing Wednesday.The Dane County Sheriff’s Office says the sheriff’s boat patrol used an airboat to rescue the two.WISC-TV reports the Monona Police Department, fire and emergency medical services also responded.The… Read more »

Following the Republican Senators’ 18-1 vote to pass the collective bargaining provisions of Gov. Scott Walker’s budget repair bill, Wisconsin unions were considering a general strike but encouraged workers to tentatively return to work Thursday until more concrete plans can be determined. Mary Bell, president of the Wisconsin Education Association… Read more »

After learning the state Senate passed the collective bargaining portion of the budget repair bill without the 14 missing Democrats, the Capitol erupted Wednesday evening as protesters flooded the closed building against a court order. The hearings where the Senate passed the bill lasted less than a half hour, prompting… Read more »

While officials maintain the Capitol remains fully open for public access, one state representative said a request for identification while moving throughout the public space Tuesday is evidence unlawful restrictions are still in place. Department of Administration spokesperson Tim Donovan said 4,270 members of the public entered the building through… Read more »

Members of a special city committee continued their efforts to hammer out the details on redistricting the aldermanic districts in Madison and the size and pay of the City Council at a meeting Tuesday evening. The special committee, composed of an equal number of alders and community members, weighed in… Read more »

Gov. Scott Walker’s new budget could mean a $6 million cut for Dane County services, County Executive Kathleen Falk announced Tuesday.  In a memo Falk released Tuesday regarding the state budget, she said a preliminary estimate of the reduced revenue for Dane County proposed in the budget totals $492,000 for… Read more »

200 BLOCK OF STATE STREETBattery A 29-year-old Madison man was attacked on State Street early Sunday morning after an altercation with a large group of people outside a party bus. Madison Police Department officers responded to a call from a local hospital saying the victim came in with an eye… Read more »

The city’s mayoral candidates addressed how each would respond to proposed state-aid funding cuts, the future of the Edgewater project and Madison’s historically high binge drinking problems at a candidate forum Monday evening. Candidate and former mayor of Madison Paul Soglin said elections are about the future of the community… Read more »