Community Connection Week of February 16th, 2026

Dear Neighbors,

As we move through this February together, I'm thinking about all the ways our community shows up for one another—through civic participation, mutual support, and collective care. This week brings important opportunities to exercise our democratic voice, engage with city planning, and strengthen the connections that make our neighborhood strong.

Your Voice Matters: Primary Election February 17th

Tomorrow, February 17th, is our Spring Primary Election. This is our chance to participate in shaping the leadership of our city and our schools. Every vote strengthens our collective voice and our ability to build the community we deserve.

Polls are open from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Find your polling location and view your sample ballot at MyVote.wi.gov. If you have questions about registration, accessibility, or need assistance getting to the polls, please reach out—everyone belongs in this process, and we're here to support one another in exercising this fundamental right.

Moving Forward Together: Traffic Safety Update

Following the heartbreaking traffic incident in our community, I met with the Traffic Engineering Division this week to discuss how we can make our streets safer for everyone who uses them. The city will be conducting a comprehensive study over the next two weeks to identify the best solutions for safe crossings in the affected area.

This work honors those impacted by reminding us that street safety is about collective responsibility and dignified infrastructure that protects all community members—especially our most vulnerable neighbors, including children, seniors, and people with disabilities. I'll continue to share updates as this study progresses and solutions are developed.

Honoring Those Who Keep Our Children Safe

This week, February 16-20, we celebrate Adult School Crossing Guard Recognition Week. Our 65 crossing guards faithfully serve at intersections across Madison, ensuring our children can travel safely to and from school. Their dedication reflects the care our community has for one another, day after day, in all weather. If you see a crossing guard this week, please take a moment to thank them for the vital role they play in keeping our families safe.

Opportunities to Engage: Meetings & Public Input

Our local government works best when all voices are heard. Here are opportunities this week to participate:

Finance Committee - Monday, February 16, 4:30 PM (Virtual)

The committee will discuss financing for up to 27 affordable owner-occupied housing units and funding five homeownership service programs. Access to stable, affordable housing is a cornerstone of community dignity and opportunity.

Meeting details and registration: cityofmadison.com/city-hall/committees/finance-committee

Plan Commission - Monday, February 16, 5:30 PM (Virtual)

Development-related requests for several districts will be discussed. How we grow and develop our city impacts housing accessibility, neighborhood character, and environmental sustainability.

Meeting details: cityofmadison.com/city-hall/committees/plan-commission

Park Badger Redevelopment Community Meetings

The Community Development Authority has released updated designs for this South Side project. Share your input at the virtual session (Tuesday, Feb 17, 6-7 PM) or in-person session (Wednesday, Feb 18, 12:30-2 PM at Madison College Goodman South Campus).

Registration required for virtual session: Register here

Community Resources & Opportunities

SEED Grants - Due February 20th

The Mayor's Office is accepting applications for grants that improve our local food system and make food more accessible for Madison residents. Food security is dignity and community health. If you're working on projects that strengthen food access, please apply.

Submit to Madison Food Policy Council: mfpc@cityofmadison.com | More information

Near West Alders Meet & Greet - February 23rd, 6 PM

Join Alders Regina Vidaver (District 5), Tag Evers (District 13), and Bil Tishler (District 11) at Midtown District Police Station (4020 Mineral Point Rd). This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with your neighbors and elected officials in a casual setting.

Please register through Eventbrite (link available at cityofmadison.com/events)

Free Vaccine Clinic - February 21st, 9-11 AM

Public Health Madison & Dane County is offering free vaccines at Ezekiel Gillespie Middle School. All vaccines are free for eligible individuals, including children six months and older with BadgerCare or most insurance types. Healthcare access is a right, not a privilege.

Connect with Nature: Family Activities

Bird & Nature Adventures - Saturday, February 21st

Join Naturalist Tara Dary at Starkweather Creek Area for a free, family-friendly hands-on activity about native Wisconsin wildflower seeds. Learn about "cold stratification" and make seed bombs to help native plants thrive. These activities connect us to the land we share and teach our children about environmental stewardship.

Building Community Through Affordable Housing

In 2025, the City's Community Development Division supported 425 future rental homes, with 260 offering permanent affordability to people with qualified incomes. This represents our collective commitment to ensuring everyone can build stable lives in our community. Housing is the foundation of opportunity, health, and dignity.

Learn more: cityofmadison.com/dpced/community-development

Moving Forward Together

Whether you're casting your ballot tomorrow, attending a community meeting, planting wildflower seeds with your children, or simply checking in on a neighbor during these cold days, you're building the solidarity that makes our community strong. Everyone belongs here, and together we create the conditions where everyone can thrive.

As always, please don't hesitate to reach out if you have questions, concerns, or ideas. Your voice matters, and I'm here to listen and serve.

In solidarity and service,

Alder Glenn

District 18

For more city news and events, visit cityofmadison.com/news and cityofmadison.com/events