City Cast Madison invited all qualified Madison Common Council candidates to complete a short questionnaire to help voters learn more about the people running to represent them in city government. All candidates were sent the same questions, and as you'll see, some questions are more policy-oriented and some are a little more fun!
The unedited responses for District 10 candidate Yannette Figueroa Cole are below.
Read the rest of the questionnaire responses here.
1. What is the single most pressing issue facing Madison?
The single most pressing issue facing Madison is affordable housing. As the city grows, housing costs continue to rise, putting pressure on low- and middle-income residents. Many struggle to find affordable homes, and developers face challenges in building enough units at a price that people can afford. The city must focus on expanding affordable housing options, supporting mixed-income developments, and addressing zoning barriers that limit growth. By ensuring more equitable access to housing, we can build a stronger, more inclusive community.
2. What's the most important issue facing your district and how will you go about addressing it?
In my district, there isn’t just one single issue, but rather the day-to-day challenges residents face. Are their streets plowed in the winter? Are city services running smoothly and meeting their needs? These everyday concerns are just as important as larger issues like housing affordability. I’m committed to addressing these immediate needs while also tackling the broader challenges our community faces. Ensuring reliable city services and maintaining affordable housing are key priorities, and I’ll continue to work on solutions that directly improve residents' daily lives.
3. What sets you apart from your competitor or, if running uncontested, what would you like voters to know about you?
My experience on the Common Council as a Latina who migrated from Puerto Rico to Madison over 30 years ago sets me apart from my opponent. My life experience allows me to bring equity and inclusion into outdated city policies purposely created to marginalize and segregate people. I know how hard it is to get a seat at the table only to have your voice stripped away because I am too loud and direct and make you uncomfortable. I take the responsibility of bringing people to the table very seriously; I don't come in with solutions; I come in to listen and learn, and I lean on the things that unite us. However, receiving people at the table and embracing their differences is also essential; seeing this as a strength helps me advocate for and deliver for the people. As an alder, I am the elected voice of our district, and including people who are left out of the process is a priority for me. I do not just study policy. I work daily to ensure it serves the people who need it most.
4. Did you support the $22 million property tax referendum? Why or why not?
Yes, I supported the $22 million property tax referendum because it was a necessary step to maintain essential city services like libraries, buses, and public safety. Without the additional funding, these vital services would have faced cuts, directly impacting the daily lives of our residents. As we continue to grow, it's critical that we ensure the city can meet the needs of its population, especially when those needs include core services. While I recognize the challenges of balancing budgets, this referendum was about preserving the quality of life for Madison residents.
5. What should Madison look for in its next police chief?
A leader who focuses on solving crimes, understands the difference between community priorities and enforcement needs, works with Public Health and community services on violence prevention, emphasizes training over militarization, supports officer mental health, and holds the department accountable.
6. What's something the city currently isn't doing, but could do to help ease our housing crisis?
Madison is thousands of units behind on housing. The Affordable Housing Fund supports workforce housing along strong transit corridors. During my time on the Council I’ve voted to promote density and create the Transit Overlay District. We must modernize zoning and eliminate unnecessary barriers.
7. What's something you wish more residents knew about Common Council/city government?
I wish more residents knew how directly their voices impact the decisions made by the Common Council and city government. Every day, we are making choices that affect people's lives, whether it's zoning decisions, funding for city services, or policies that shape how we live in our community. It's crucial that residents know they have a seat at the table and that their input matters. City government is not distant or disconnected from daily life; it’s made up of people who are here to serve the community.
8. What's one thing you wish you could change about Madison?
One thing I wish I could change about Madison is how we engage with each other, especially when it comes to contentious issues. Discourse can get heated, but we’re all invested in the issues that affect us. Sometimes, we need to step back and connect as people first. That’s why I make it a habit to invite people—especially those I disagree with—for a meal or coffee, promoting understanding before debating the issues. I believe this approach fosters healthier conversations and stronger connections in our community.
9. What’s your favorite meal in Madison?
There is not one meal that I could say is my favorite but I love getting to try all of the restaurants in Madison. I have a very long list of restaurants that I love, a lot of them are in District 10! I love Mexican cuisine and El Panzon, Jalapeno & Los Atlantes are fantastic.
