This is a follow-up to the blog I posted yesterday, $6.2 Million, 29 Homes, and the Question Nobody Asked , about the city's acquisition of the remaining vacant land at Royster Corners. That story focused on the appraisal, assessment, and sales price. This story looks at higher-level, systemic issues. Key Points Eleven parcels included in the acquisition have no economic value and are liabilities, not assets. The city is paying top dollar to take over a project the developer

Key Points On Tuesday, March 10, the Common Council votes on whether to pay $5.2 million for land the City’s own Assessor values at $1,481,000. The resolution says the purchase price was negotiated based on an appraisal. That appraisal covers only 6 of the 17 parcels being bought. The other 11—added to the acquisition during negotiations with the developer—have none. The legislative record discloses neither fact. The appraisal applies a market value standard to what is demons

Madison’s biggest affordable homeownership investment ever in owner-occupied housing skipped the most basic question: Is this the best way to help families buy homes? Editor's note: On February 24, 2026, the Common Council approved Legistar File 91615 by unanimous consent on the consent agenda. No alder requested separate consideration. There was no discussion and no debate. Key Points The Common Council is voting tonight on Legistar File 91615, which commits $6.2 million in

The Common Council should refer this legislation back for meaningful stakeholder engagement before creating unintended consequences for residential neighborhoods. Key Points Ordinance creates low-density housing and is unlikely to accomplish the city's stated goals. Key provisions contradict best practices, undermining goals for density, affordability, market acceptance, and neighborhood compatibility. Ordinance permits parking ramps and 16-car surface lots by right in reside