Community Update from the Mayor's Office

Community Update — July 28

posted  July 28, 2026 – 2:35pm

For Immediate Release
July 28, 2026

First, we must acknowledge that there is real pain and anger over the fact that multiple community members have lost their lives during interactions with the police in the Marquette neighborhood over the past several years. Similarly, we must acknowledge the structural issues that underpin the trauma people are experiencing. The City hears and takes seriously the demands for justice and accountability. Multiple independent investigations will be conducted. That will be just the beginning of continued community discussion and action over policies, procedures, and other ways to prevent further tragedies.  

Many people in our community are experiencing trauma right now. If you or someone you know is in need of immediate mental health resources, the 988 Lifeline is available for immediate support. You can also text HOME or HOLA to 741741 to reach a live crisis counselor. Public Health Madison Dane County has additional resources(external), as well. Please reach out if you need help – we all need to take care of ourselves in traumatic times.  

We also continue to hear from residents in the Marquette neighborhood about the traumatic impact of another life lost, the desire for actionable and sustainable ways of remembering Corey Ruiz, and a way forward. Currently, local businesses are closed, workers are facing financial hardships, local residents are navigating a variety of challenges, and city streets are not safe locations for people sleeping in tents. City leadership continues to engage residents, community organizers, and the business community to work on a path that prioritizes safety, action, and remembering Corey.  

The City of Madison is exploring many avenues to reach a successful resolution without further heightening tensions and causing more harm to impacted community members, including protesters. There are street outreach workers and Community Development Division staff reaching out directly to unhoused individuals to provide services. Economic Development Division staff are contacting local businesses to offer assistance and information, and are in contact with the Williamson-Marquette Business Alliance. Local elected officials are working with residents to resolve immediate issues and are in touch with the neighborhood leaders and the Marquette Neighborhood Association. 

We encourage everyone to engage with their elected officials at all levels of government, because every level of government has a role to play in public safety and criminal justice reform. For those outside the immediate neighborhood who want to help, please consider donating to or volunteering with local organizations that work for justice and/or support the unhoused community. Please also consider patronizing, now and in the future, local businesses that have been impacted. Thank you for your patience, take care of each other, and please be safe.