Week of October 26, 2026

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Hello District 7 Neighbors,

As we head into the final week of October, there are several important opportunities to participate in Madison's local government, including discussions about the City's 2027 operating budget, proposed zoning regulations for data centers, and police body-worn camera policies.

Last week, I also had the opportunity to meet with residents in the Country Grove neighborhood to discuss speeding, pedestrian safety, stormwater drainage, sidewalks, street lighting, and other neighborhood improvements. These conversations are an important part of my work as your Alder. I will continue connecting residents with City staff, following up on concerns, and working toward practical solutions.

Below are this week's updates, meetings, public participation opportunities, and community reminders.

🏘️ Country Grove Neighborhood Walk: Working Together on Safety and Infrastructure

On Saturday, I met with Dave Esser and Reese Christman, President and Vice-President of the Country Grove Neighborhood Association, for a walk through their neighborhood. Thank you both for taking the time to show me the areas of concern and for your continued commitment to improving the neighborhood.

We discussed several issues that deserve follow-up with the appropriate City departments:

  • Traffic speeds and volumes: Residents have raised concerns about speeding and cut-through traffic on Tanglewood Drive. We discussed the existing 20 mph speed limit signs, whether larger or repositioned signs could help, and the possibility of studying traffic speeds and volumes.
  • Pedestrian safety: We discussed challenges crossing Tanglewood Drive and potential improvements to crosswalk markings, pedestrian signage, and other safety measures.
  • Stormwater drainage and erosion: Residents identified concerns about overgrown drainage channels, standing water, sediment buildup, and erosion in neighborhood green spaces, including areas near East Pass.
  • Sidewalks and street lighting: We discussed remaining sidewalk repairs, inspecting additional sidewalks for trip hazards, and checking streetlights for outages and opportunities to transition to LED lighting.
  • Vegetation along Highway PD: We discussed overgrown vegetation along the fencing and walking and biking path.
  • Neighborhood entrances: We also discussed possible resources or funding opportunities to restore and improve the neighborhood entrance signs.

I will begin contacting the corresponding City staff this week and share updates as I receive responses. Some issues may require engineering assessments, coordination among departments, or longer-term funding, but I want to make sure each concern reaches the right people and has a clear path toward next steps.

I also dropped off “20 Is Plenty" yard signs to help raise awareness about neighborhood speeding.

Thank you to Dave, Reese, and the Country Grove residents who continue to document concerns, report problems, and work toward solutions. This is how neighborhood engagement can make a difference.

If you have similar concerns in your part of District 7, please contact me at district7@cityofmadison.com.

🖥️ Data Center Zoning: Public Information Meeting on Tuesday

The City is continuing its work on a proposed zoning framework for data centers within Madison. The draft framework addresses how different sizes of data centers could be regulated, where they could be located, and what standards might apply.

Data centers raise important questions about land use, energy and water demands, noise, nearby neighborhoods, infrastructure, and Madison's long-term growth. Residents deserve clear information about these potential impacts and meaningful opportunities to weigh in.

The proposed framework is not final legislation. It was developed by City staff as a starting point for discussion and public feedback. The framework will need to move through the City's review process before any final Council action.

The City has also explained that the draft framework is intended to distinguish among different sizes of data centers and establish clearer rules. The public meeting is an opportunity to learn more about the proposal, ask questions, and share concerns.

Public Information Meeting

I encourage residents who are interested in this issue to review the draft materials and participate. Public feedback is important as the City considers how to balance economic development, infrastructure capacity, environmental impacts, and neighborhood quality of life.

I will continue following this process and sharing information as the proposal develops.

🚔 Body-Worn Cameras: Public Listening Session on Thursday

The Common Council President's Workgroup on Madison Police Department Use of Deadly Force, De-Escalation and Body-Worn Cameras Policies and Procedures is continuing its review of police policies and practices.

Body-worn cameras are an important part of the broader discussion about transparency, accountability, public safety, and community trust. Effective policies need to address when cameras are activated, how footage is retained and accessed, privacy considerations, and how recordings support investigations and public accountability.

The workgroup is holding a public listening session to share its progress and hear from residents about body-worn camera policies. This is an opportunity for community members to offer input before the workgroup develops its recommendations.

Public Listening Session

  • Date: Thursday, October 29, 2026
  • Time: 4:30 p.m.
  • Format: Virtual via Zoom
  • Registration: Advance registration is required to receive the meeting link.

Register for the body-worn camera listening session

I encourage District 7 residents to participate and share their perspectives. Community input is essential as we work toward policies that promote transparency, accountability, and public trust.

🚔 Police Oversight: Continuing the Work After Last Week's Council Vote

Last Tuesday, October 20, the Common Council voted to terminate the appointment of Interim Independent Police Monitor Aeiramique “Meeka" Glass.

I supported the resolution after considering the issues before the Council and the need to establish a clear path forward for Madison's civilian police oversight system.

I recognize that residents have strong and differing views on this decision. I appreciate everyone who contacted me, shared their experiences, and took the time to participate in this important discussion. I understand that the outcome has raised concerns about the future of independent oversight and the role of the Police Civilian Oversight Board.

My position is that Madison must maintain an effective, independent, and trusted civilian oversight system. The decision last week does not eliminate that responsibility. The work ahead must focus on ensuring that the Office of the Independent Police Monitor can function effectively, that the Police Civilian Oversight Board can carry out its responsibilities, and that the community has confidence in the process.

The City has identified work with the National Association for Civilian Oversight of Law Enforcement (NACOLE) as part of the path forward. The next steps should prioritize professional guidance, stakeholder engagement, and a clear plan for strengthening the City's oversight structure.

I will continue following this work and advocating for a process that is transparent, accountable, and focused on the long-term effectiveness of civilian oversight.

🏛️ City Meetings and Opportunities to Participate

Here are several important City meetings scheduled for this week. This is not a complete list of all City meetings.

Monday, October 26

Finance Committee — 2027 Operating Budget Deliberations

  • Time: 4:30 p.m.
  • Format: Virtual

The Finance Committee will continue deliberations on the 2027 Executive Operating Budget. Budget decisions shape the services residents rely on, from transportation and infrastructure to public safety and neighborhood programs.

Residents can review the agenda and follow the discussion online.

Wednesday, October 28

Transportation Commission — Public Hearing

  • Time: 6:00 p.m.

Metro Transit and the Transportation Commission will hold a public hearing on proposed increases to paratransit agency fare and contract rates for the Commute Card and Unlimited Ride Pass programs.

Residents who use these services or have an interest in transit affordability can review the proposal and learn how to participate.

Find the meeting agenda and details through the City meeting schedule.

Friday, October 30

President's Workgroup on MPD Use of Deadly Force, De-Escalation and Body-Worn Cameras

  • Time: 5:00 p.m.
  • Format: Virtual

The workgroup will examine the Milwaukee Police Department's body-worn camera policy as part of its ongoing review of policies and procedures.

Residents can review the agenda and meeting materials through the City's meeting schedule.

City of Madison meeting schedule

For the most current agendas, meeting formats, public-comment registration, and viewing links, visit the City of Madison Common Council website.

🗳️ Election Reminder: November 3 Is Approaching

The November 3 election is just around the corner. If you plan to vote absentee by mail, the City Clerk's Office recommends mailing your ballot promptly to allow sufficient time for delivery.

Residents can also review early in-person absentee voting options and election information through the Clerk's Office.

City of Madison Clerk's Office and election information

Please make a plan to vote and encourage your neighbors to do the same.

🍂 Fall Reminders: Leaf Collection and Drop-Off Sites

Fall leaf collection is underway across Madison. Collection dates vary by location, so residents should check the City's yard waste information to determine when to set out leaves.

The Streets Division's drop-off sites also accept yard waste, electronics, and many other items. Remember that drop-off site hours change for the winter months, so check the current schedule before making a trip.

Thank you for helping keep our streets, sidewalks, and neighborhoods clean as we transition into winter.

🚧 Transportation Notice: Road Closures Beginning Monday

Residents traveling outside District 7 should be aware of two announced closures beginning Monday, October 26:

  • Eastbound West Dayton Street: Eastbound traffic between North Charter Street and North Mills Street will close for work on the UW–Madison chilled water system. Westbound traffic will remain open.
  • County Highway T: Both directions east of Felland Road will close beginning at 9:00 a.m. Monday for utility work associated with a private development project. The closure is scheduled to continue through Friday, October 30.

Please plan ahead, follow posted detours, and allow extra time if your travels take you through these areas.

Check the City's transportation and street closure notices for the latest information.

🎃 Community Events This Week

Madison has several opportunities to enjoy the community as Halloween approaches.

  • Tuesday, October 27 — East High School Basketball Feeder Program Fall Academy: A basketball development program for students in grades 5–8 who plan to attend Madison East High School. Please check the event listing for program details.
  • Wednesday, October 28 — Hayride Around the Capitol and Movie at the Top of State Street: A family-oriented Halloween event in partnership with Madison's Central Business Improvement District.
  • Wednesday, October 28 — Wright Design Series: The Frautschi Center: Learn about the design of the planned gateway to UW–Madison's Lakeshore Nature Preserve and its community-driven planning process.
  • Friday, October 30 — Warner Family Fun Night: Halloween Celebration: A family event at the Warner Park Community Recreation Center featuring art activities, gym activities, a movie, and bingo.

Find event details, times, and registration information through the City of Madison events calendar.

📰 Other City Updates

Please visit the City news webpage to find additional news and announcements and to subscribe to receive notification of news releases as they are posted.
 

🌳 Community Events This Week

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

🤝 Staying Connected in District 7

My goal is to keep District 7 residents informed, listen to your concerns, and help connect neighborhood priorities with City resources.

Whether the issue is traffic safety, sidewalks, stormwater drainage, parks, housing, public safety, or a question about a City decision, please reach out. I may not always have an immediate answer, but I will work to identify the appropriate staff, understand the available options, and follow up as information becomes available.

Contact me:

Badri Lankella
Alder – District 7
Email: district7@cityofmadison.com

Thank you for your continued engagement and for everything you do to make our neighborhoods stronger, safer, and more connected.

In solidarity,

Badri Lankella
Alder – District 7
City of Madison

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