Alder John W. Duncan Announces Resignation from Madison Common Council
Alder John W. Duncan, District 1, is resigning from the Madison Common Council, effective July 31, 2026.
“My last day as your alder will be Friday, July 31, 2026. My husband and I have decided to move from Madison. While we are excited for this next step, leaving this community is bittersweet. Madison has been our home, and serving here has truly meant a lot to me", said Alder Duncan.
“Serving as your alder has reminded me that local government is where democracy is at its best. It is where neighbors come together to solve problems, celebrate successes, and build a stronger community for the next generation. I never took the responsibility you entrusted to me for granted. I am proud of what we accomplished together. We helped shape the future of Madison's west side through advanced projects that will benefit our growing community for years to come, supported thoughtful land use and housing policies, improved the consistency of our lakefront regulations, and worked to make our city more equitable and welcoming for everyone. While I am proud of the legislation I sponsored and co-sponsored, I am even prouder of the relationships we built and the trust we shared along the way".
Alder Duncan was first elected to the Common Council in April 2023. During his tenure, he served on the Landmarks Commission, Public Safety Review Committee, Affirmative Action Commission, Common Council Executive Committee, Plan Commission, Economic Development Committee, and the Greater Madison Metropolitan Planning Committee.
“I appreciate Alder Duncan's commitment to his constituents and to serving our community. His committee work on planning, public safety, transportation, and economic development has served the city well. I'm proud of the work we accomplished on many fronts, including creating more opportunities for a diversity of housing types in Madison," said Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway. “I wish him and his husband well on their next endeavor."
"Many thanks to Alder Duncan for his leadership. He's been a great steward for his constituents as well as for residents across the city," said Council President Sabrina Madison. “His support for projects such as affordable housing, small business support, libraries, and youth programming will have a long-lasting positive impact on our city. Congrats to him and his husband on their next journey."
Details on the timeline and process for filling the District 1 vacancy are coming soon!
About the Madison Common Council
The Common Council's mission is to represent the residents of Madison by promoting the safety, health, and general well-being of the community, by incorporating the following City core values: Equity, Civic Engagement, Well-Being, Shared Prosperity, and Stewardship. Visit the City of Madison Common Council website for additional information.