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October 30, 2024

What You Need To Know About Madison's $22 Million Budget Referendum

City Cast Madison

What You Need To Know About Madison's $22 Million Budget Referendum

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Come election day the city has a big ask — a $22 million ask to be exact. Madison is facing a budget deficit and to plug the holes, the city is turning to voters in hopes of passing a property tax referendum. But not everyone is on board with the idea. So how did we get here and what will the money be used for if the referendum passes? Host Bianca Martin sat down with Isthmus reporter Liam Beran to find out. 

You can listen to City Cast Madison’s past conversations with Madison Common Council President Yannette Figueroa Cole and Madison’s Finance Director Dave Schmiedicke about the budget for more insight on the city’s budget woes.

Wanna talk to us about an episode? Leave us a voicemail at 608-318-3367 or email madison@citycast.fm. We’re also on Instagram

You can get more Madison news delivered right to your inbox by subscribing to the Madison Minutes morning newsletter. 

Learn more about the sponsors of this October 30th episode here:

  • BetterHelp - get 10% off at betterhelp.com/CITYCAST


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