The City of Madison will be hiring more police officers and firefighters after public safety was prioritized in the fiscal year 2023 budget.
The Madison Police Department was authorized to add six additional police officer positions as the money was made available in the budget. These positions will become available in April of 2023.
“Leadership at the police department is routinely included in discussions related to developments proposed and approved as a result of city planning,” Madison Police Department’s Captain Kevin Newman said.
“With proposed and expected retail, commercial and residential developments scheduled to occur in the short-term future in the city of Madison, the additional police personnel would provide the law enforcement coverage and resources needed to continue to maintain a safe and secure community.”
Three additional firefighters will also be added to the fire department in Madison. Madison’s City Clerk Susan Crandall said the priorities of the city are to continue providing needed services, such as public safety, infrastructure and medical services to the city’s citizens.
“Safety is always a big concern to the mayor and board,” Crandall said. “Safety of our citizens and safety for our businesses has always been a priority. We always want to be there when our citizens need help and, of course, we want to have the proper infrastructure for our citizens and businesses.”
The millage rate has also been reduced this year to 28.8 from its previous amount of 29.8. Crandall said the city is able to keep taxes low due to a strong sales tax and conservative spending.
“It is always important to keep taxes low,” Crandall said. “That benefits our businesses and our citizens to keep the taxes down while still providing quality services. It has always been something we have wanted to do.”
City employees will also be receiving a three percent raise this fiscal year.
“We have a strong budget addressing the needs of our infrastructure and public safety,” Mayor Mary Hawkins Butler said. “Once again, there will be no tax increase as we continue to run our city with integrity.”
