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Common Council

Week of July 27, 2026

posted 

District Niners,

Last week's tragedy that culminated with a loss of life in our city, on our streets and in broad daylight has left me asking many questions.  Some have answers and some MUST be addressed post-haste.  Tip-toeing around as if a problem does not exist will lead to more tragedies (not less) if not faced head on.  For now, I will continue to work through the horrific imagery in my head and ask what (I) as a party of one can do or say that will lead to preventable and corrective measures going forward. I will revisit this tragedy later.  My heartfelt condolences to Corey Ruiz' family and the caring community.

What's Up for the coming week:

  • Saddle up for another round of blistering heat and humidity on Monday.  You know the routine: hydrate, limit time outside, take care of yourself and others (including our pets).
  • August 2026 is just hours away, and we all know what that means.  University students will be returning.  For those of you who regularly travel in and around the Isthmus, don't forget your 8 or16 ounce bottle of patience that you will need for moving in and moving out days and refill as needed.
  • The August 11th primary: Whether you are planning to vote early, absentee, mail-in ballot, or in-person, VOTE!  Drop boxes are now open.  Remember, voting is not a spectator sport.
  • Water Main Flushing (this week) west of Bear Claw Rd. between Old Sauk and Mineral Pt. Rd.  Flushing will occur during the daytime unless otherwise noted.

Announcements & News Releases

  • Following the death of Corey Ruiz, to ensure community safety, the closure of Williamson Street and South Baldwin Street will remain in place due to ongoing public gathering within the intersection. The closure will remain in effect until further notice. Do consider alternative plans if your travels take you to, through, or from that intersection.
  • Madison metro riders.  The Transportation Commission  has scheduled a public hearing on Wednesday (virtual) at 6:00 PM to review and discuss changes, and processes and standards related to the placement of bus stops, shelter, benches, and other amenities. Consider adding your voice and your input to this very important discussion.
  • Announcing Mooveapalooza!: A Donation & Mattress Recycling Event: The City of Madison Streets Division and the Dane County Department of Waste & Renewables is happy to announce the first ever Mooveapalooza! This is a one-day event at Alliant Energy Center will provide opportunities to recycle, repurpose, upcycle items no longer needed or wanted by you.  Too many items that can be recycled or repurposed end up in landfills.      This one-day event by the City of Madison in partnership with St Vincent DePaul will take place on August 14th at the Alliant Energy Center.  Begin planning now to support this donation event.  For a more detailed listing of items you can donate, please visit: cityofmadison.com/ streets/trash-recycling/move-out-clean-outs/mooveapalooza-donation-recycling-event. Note: Cut and paste the above site into your browser.

Events

Additional upcoming events can also be found on the City events calendar.

Your well-being

I am still reeling and I need time to process the events of the last few days. In the meantime, be kind and above all else, if you have nothing positive, preventable and/or curative to say…say nothing at all.

Until next time,

Joann

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Portrait of Alder Joann Pritchett

Alder Joann Pritchett

District 9
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