Public meeting on family definition Monday 7pm, public meeting on historic districts in TOD Jan 12, Be salt wise, events and announcements

Hello neighbors,

Reminder that there will be a public information meeting tomorrow, December 19 at 7pm regarding the proposed changes to the "Family Definition" for zoning purposes. Staff will provide a presentation, and Q & A will follow. The meeting will be virtual. Please register in advance. Please see my blog from last week for more background on this proposal.

Also, an update regarding the Transit-Oriented Development (TOD)-Overlay proposal: Last week, the Plan Commission voted to include the historic districts in the TOD-Overlay. See last week's blog post for more in-depth information on what this may mean for University Heights. I requested the Common Council delay taking this item up to allow for a public information meeting for residents in the historic districts, since these areas had previously been exempted. Council President Furman agreed, and this item will be delayed until the January 17 Council meeting. Alder Tishler and I have arranged for a VIRTUAL public information meeting on the topic on January 12 at 6pm. To attend, please sign up HERE.

Be Salt Wise

In addition to needing to keep your walks clear of snow and ice, Madison now also requires limiting the use of salt and other melting agents to only the amount necessary. The goal of the ordinance change is twofold: It will keep sidewalks safe for pedestrians and dogs (the chemical melting agents burn their foot pads!), and also help the community cut down on salt use, which helps our area waterways. Please note that sand containers have been placed around the neighborhood for your use, and that is the preferred substance for icy walkways.

Events

• Laughing Bodies, Dancing Minds – Register now! Professor Li Chaio-Ping is offering these movement classes for people 55+. No dance experience necessary! Tuesdays, 2-3pm, January 17-March 7.
• Festive Fun at Madison Public Library: Check out all the events at area libraries for adults and kids. Journaling workshops, decorating mugs, snow globes and cookies, story time, and pajama parties are being offered, along with Friday night movies! Events run through the end of the year.
• Winter Solstice Celebrations: Enjoy a bonfire, hot chocolate, and a drum circle at Olbrich Park on December 21, 3:30-9pm, or s'mores and hot chocolate at Glenwood Park (602 Glenway Street) on December 21, 4-9pm.

Announcements 

• The Madison Police Department has released results from its Summer Strategic Plan.
• Madison Out of School Time announces its first Fellows, who will learn together and engage in professional development so they can be the best possible mentors and role models.  
• 'A perfect storm': Flu, respiratory viruses put strain on Madison hospitals
• Metro Breaks Ground on Bus Rapid Transit!
• Metro will have reduced service over Christmas
• Late fees for Municipal Services Bills waived through 12/31/22!
• Streets Division Drop-off Sites Now on Winter Hours

Wishing you a Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas, blessed Kwanza, and Happy New Year!

-Regina Vidaver