By james art Thanks to the Wisconsin State Journal for bringing attention to upcoming referendum questions in south-central Wisconsin, especially those hanging in Madison. The factual information provided and numerous opinions from informed parties, as well as the State Journal’s editorial recommendations, provide a solid basis for deciding how to vote. There is no substitute for reliable local journalism when weighing these issues.
Based on what I have learned, I will oppose all referendums. The Madison school district has not tried to cut costs, consider consolidating schools or adjusting attendance boundaries. Assumptions about future increases in enrollment seem specious, as do assumptions about the continued effects of the pandemic on students who were too young to experience those effects. The district recently received about $60 million in unexpected state funding. With a new non-fraud legislature in place next year, school funding could increase again.
I oppose the City of Madison referendum because “continuing services” raises the question of separating the good from the bad. It’s time to stop, think about what the community can afford, and see what the new legislature does. Ask again if necessary afterwards.