| DECISION 2009 CANDIDATES FOR MADISON ALDER |
1. I have been an outspoken leader on these issues and have repeatedly pointed to ways where I think the City can and should do more to ensure a truly diverse
workforce. Last year, I called for two reports to be done by the Affirmative Action Commission (AAC) and Department of Civil Rights (DCR). These reports revealed
that a) the City is embarrassingly unaccustomed to having to regularly collect and report these data; and b) that, at least in upper management positions within
the City, women are underrepresented in much higher numbers than people of color; and c) we have a great deal more research to do to explore how people of
color, those with disabilities, and women are represented throughout city departments. I have been extraordinarily pleased with how responsive and interested the
DCR and AAC have been in shining a spotlight on these issues and the AAC’s reports identified numerous areas where we can improve. I’m continuing to work
closely with DCR staff to support their great efforts in these areas.
Several things need immediate attention:
-We have to make sure that we are recruiting appropriately and in places where we might be able to attract more candidates of color.
-We need to make sure that our testing and screening practices do not work to exclude people of color.
-We need to have diverse hiring panels that make the hires.
-We need to do more training for people in each of the departments who are doing the hiring.
-We need to adequately fund the hiring and recruitment process and the Department of Civil Rights.
-We also need to have continued reporting to make sure people are informed on if we are making progress.
2. I’m in the process of exploring why we don’t use the state certification process for minority-owned businesses to make it easier for minority-owned businesses to
do business with the City of Madison. I also think that our TIF policies should have stronger requirements to use minority-owned businesses. We also have to
develop more extensive connections between the organizations in the community who are helping to foster entrepreneurial efforts by minority and women-owned
businesses, and the City. For example, if the City has products or services that it wishes to purchase and cannot find any minority business enterprises providing
these goods or services, those gaps in availability need to be conveyed to groups like WWBIC or the Urban League, to ensure that minority entrepreneurs, if
interested, can provide services and products in areas that would meet local government’s needs. The City also could do a far better job assisting existing MBEs
in marketing their services and products to private purchasers, similar to how the “Buy Local” program helps to promote and make the public aware of locally-
owned businesses.
3. If they are residents of the City of Madison, they should have all the same rights as any other resident of the City of Madison. Furthermore, they should be able
to access those goods and services without putting themselves at risk of deportation.
4. I’d like to see the funds be leveraged to create permanent jobs wherever possible, not just temporary jobs that will vanish when the funds are spent. The funds
should not supplant things that we were already planning to do, but should expand on our services to the City of Madison. Additionally, the funds should be used
to help struggling families – to reduce funds needed for housing, transportation, childcare and other basic needs. These funds are likely to be a one-time only
occurrence that we must use wisely, efficiently and quickly, to support those families and workers who are struggling in Madison right now given the economic
downturn.
5. Funding should be increased. Every year as the City Council and Mayor debate the City’s budget, I have fought for increased funding for vital community
services programs. While the City of Madison has been growing, funding has had minimal increases that do not cover the basic costs of rising fuel costs,
increasing health care costs for employees and other basic business costs. Additionally, the living wage requirements increase every year without any additional
funding. It is not acceptable for some City leaders to punt our responsibility for serving Madison’s children and low-income families and simply hope that the
County or State pick up this responsibility at budget time.
6. First and foremost, we have to try to preserve the affordable housing we currently have. Due to recent actions of the City Attorney’s office, non-profits who
provide affordable housing will have to start paying property taxes unless there is a statewide fix. At this point, we are working on local solutions to help support
non-profits through the Affordable Housing Trust Fund while we sort out this mess and in case the state does not change the laws. Without this assistance, we
could lose over 1,000 affordable housing units in the City of Madison.
I am currently amending the Affordable Housing Trust Fund ordinance to allow us to use the fund earlier and more frequently. The fund should only be used
in the City of Madison and we should not allow the Mayor to give away the funds outside the City. We should also allow additional funds for housing that served
the lowest income people in our community.
We should also adopt a Capital Borrowing Program to incentivize private landlords to fix up their properties in exchange for renting to lower income
individuals. Finally, the City of Madison should financially support public housing and the Section 8 program where necessary.
workforce. Last year, I called for two reports to be done by the Affirmative Action Commission (AAC) and Department of Civil Rights (DCR). These reports revealed
that a) the City is embarrassingly unaccustomed to having to regularly collect and report these data; and b) that, at least in upper management positions within
the City, women are underrepresented in much higher numbers than people of color; and c) we have a great deal more research to do to explore how people of
color, those with disabilities, and women are represented throughout city departments. I have been extraordinarily pleased with how responsive and interested the
DCR and AAC have been in shining a spotlight on these issues and the AAC’s reports identified numerous areas where we can improve. I’m continuing to work
closely with DCR staff to support their great efforts in these areas.
Several things need immediate attention:
-We have to make sure that we are recruiting appropriately and in places where we might be able to attract more candidates of color.
-We need to make sure that our testing and screening practices do not work to exclude people of color.
-We need to have diverse hiring panels that make the hires.
-We need to do more training for people in each of the departments who are doing the hiring.
-We need to adequately fund the hiring and recruitment process and the Department of Civil Rights.
-We also need to have continued reporting to make sure people are informed on if we are making progress.
2. I’m in the process of exploring why we don’t use the state certification process for minority-owned businesses to make it easier for minority-owned businesses to
do business with the City of Madison. I also think that our TIF policies should have stronger requirements to use minority-owned businesses. We also have to
develop more extensive connections between the organizations in the community who are helping to foster entrepreneurial efforts by minority and women-owned
businesses, and the City. For example, if the City has products or services that it wishes to purchase and cannot find any minority business enterprises providing
these goods or services, those gaps in availability need to be conveyed to groups like WWBIC or the Urban League, to ensure that minority entrepreneurs, if
interested, can provide services and products in areas that would meet local government’s needs. The City also could do a far better job assisting existing MBEs
in marketing their services and products to private purchasers, similar to how the “Buy Local” program helps to promote and make the public aware of locally-
owned businesses.
3. If they are residents of the City of Madison, they should have all the same rights as any other resident of the City of Madison. Furthermore, they should be able
to access those goods and services without putting themselves at risk of deportation.
4. I’d like to see the funds be leveraged to create permanent jobs wherever possible, not just temporary jobs that will vanish when the funds are spent. The funds
should not supplant things that we were already planning to do, but should expand on our services to the City of Madison. Additionally, the funds should be used
to help struggling families – to reduce funds needed for housing, transportation, childcare and other basic needs. These funds are likely to be a one-time only
occurrence that we must use wisely, efficiently and quickly, to support those families and workers who are struggling in Madison right now given the economic
downturn.
5. Funding should be increased. Every year as the City Council and Mayor debate the City’s budget, I have fought for increased funding for vital community
services programs. While the City of Madison has been growing, funding has had minimal increases that do not cover the basic costs of rising fuel costs,
increasing health care costs for employees and other basic business costs. Additionally, the living wage requirements increase every year without any additional
funding. It is not acceptable for some City leaders to punt our responsibility for serving Madison’s children and low-income families and simply hope that the
County or State pick up this responsibility at budget time.
6. First and foremost, we have to try to preserve the affordable housing we currently have. Due to recent actions of the City Attorney’s office, non-profits who
provide affordable housing will have to start paying property taxes unless there is a statewide fix. At this point, we are working on local solutions to help support
non-profits through the Affordable Housing Trust Fund while we sort out this mess and in case the state does not change the laws. Without this assistance, we
could lose over 1,000 affordable housing units in the City of Madison.
I am currently amending the Affordable Housing Trust Fund ordinance to allow us to use the fund earlier and more frequently. The fund should only be used
in the City of Madison and we should not allow the Mayor to give away the funds outside the City. We should also allow additional funds for housing that served
the lowest income people in our community.
We should also adopt a Capital Borrowing Program to incentivize private landlords to fix up their properties in exchange for renting to lower income
individuals. Finally, the City of Madison should financially support public housing and the Section 8 program where necessary.
Questions
1. What steps would you advocate for to ensure that people of color are
proportionately employed in all city departments and employment classifications?
2. What initiatives should the city undertake to expand the level of the
purchasing of goods and services of minority business enterprises (MBEs) by
private and public decision makers?
3. To what extent should undocumented workers be allowed to access and
utilize goods and services provided by city government?
4. What would your priority projects be for the use of federal stimulus funds?
5. In light of its historical funding levels in an age of declining public revenues,
should the funding of the programs funded by the Office of Community Services
be decreased, remain the same or increased? Why?
6. What initiatives and programs would you undertake to ensure an adequate
supply of affordable housing for low-income families that meet or exceed city
housing codes?
1. What steps would you advocate for to ensure that people of color are
proportionately employed in all city departments and employment classifications?
2. What initiatives should the city undertake to expand the level of the
purchasing of goods and services of minority business enterprises (MBEs) by
private and public decision makers?
3. To what extent should undocumented workers be allowed to access and
utilize goods and services provided by city government?
4. What would your priority projects be for the use of federal stimulus funds?
5. In light of its historical funding levels in an age of declining public revenues,
should the funding of the programs funded by the Office of Community Services
be decreased, remain the same or increased? Why?
6. What initiatives and programs would you undertake to ensure an adequate
supply of affordable housing for low-income families that meet or exceed city
housing codes?
Brenda Konkel
District 2
District 2
– developing cultural competency in all areas and among all staff?
Madison’s model is inclusive. The next steps are to focus on implementing best practice.
2. In order to achieve this, we not only need to set the goal, we need to develop an understanding of city staffers, purchasing agents, decision makers, and MBEs.
We have a shared stake in economic development, and the city needs to provide leadership in this area. I am proud to say that I have good working relationships
with city staff, as well as with the small business community and MBEs. It is not enough to set a goal. We have to evaluate how well we are doing now, and hold
ourselves accountable.
How effective is the city in communicating business opportunities to businesses of color? Has it reached out to all of the vendors established in the Madison
area that are on the Wis. Dept. of Commerce’s certified minority business list? What kind of resources are being put into the effort to match MBEs with business
opportunities and what kind of evaluation is done to ensure that city departments are making a good-faith effort to purchase goods and services from MBEs? How
visible are the city’s efforts in these areas? We need to answer these questions and then set about the business of gaining more city business for MBEs.
If there is meaningful, ongoing communication with MBEs and members of the community, we will all reap the benefits.
3. City government’s central role is to provide basic services to citizens: police and fire protection, streets and sanitation, public health, and clean water. More
broadly, our city is the heart of our quality of life: health, economy, the environment, schools, recreation. The programs of the Office of Commu-nity Services are
those that protect and improve our quality of life for seniors, youth, and families. They provide support, address issues community assistance and access, provide
oversight and guidance for child care, and plan and budget for human services. They are the structure for the planning councils and committees that ensure
resident participation and voice, and they advise the city government regarding social services. These programs provide an economic and social lifeline, and
they allow our community to flourish.
In hard times, with a declining (or recovering) economy, underrepresented and vulnerable communities are hit the hardest, and community services are
more important than ever. As we have recently seen, the economy takes a toll on private funding for non-profits and other safety nets. Healthy families, good
child care, access to services – all of these needs are more acute when household resources are under pressure. The city’s role in planning, coordination, and
oversight of services becomes even more valuable. For that reason, I support solid funding for the Office, and will give that a high priority.
4. Our economy and complex community relies on all workers: professional and blue collar; part-time and full-time, public and private sector, immigrant and non-
immigrant. My own experience is one of an immigrant’s ideal, and I am grateful to Madison for the opportunities it has afforded so many people.
All immigrants, documented or not, contribute resources to our community in terms of taxes, time, work, and quality of life. By definition, all workers are
participants in our economy and community as a whole. Their lives are neither separate nor distinct from the rest of the community, and their contributions are
equally valuable. They are part and parcel of our neighborhoods, schools, culture, and more. And, just as the well-being of non-immigrants affects the entire
community, so does the well-being of documented and undocumented immigrants. Equal access to goods and services, by all who are a part of the community,
strengthens us as a whole and protects our quality of life.
5. The stimulus package offers unprecedented opportunities to improve our existing infrastructure, improve transportation, and create jobs. We need to match our
pursuit of stimulus funds to both the areas targeted by the federal government and existing priorities in Madison. Some of my priorities for the use of the stimulus
money are: Pushing forth a Regional Transit Authority; Emergency Shelter Grants to prevent evictions; Creation of affordable housing and economic
opportunities though CDBG; Public housing improvements through CDA; Fire department remodeling of Station 2 to accommodate a double company;
Replacement of Metro diesel buses to hybrid buses; Purchase of additional paratransit buses; Upgrade of city facilities for energy efficiency and use of renewable
energy; Support for green city and green jobs through the Efficiency & Conservation Block Grants.
Madison’s model is inclusive. The next steps are to focus on implementing best practice.
2. In order to achieve this, we not only need to set the goal, we need to develop an understanding of city staffers, purchasing agents, decision makers, and MBEs.
We have a shared stake in economic development, and the city needs to provide leadership in this area. I am proud to say that I have good working relationships
with city staff, as well as with the small business community and MBEs. It is not enough to set a goal. We have to evaluate how well we are doing now, and hold
ourselves accountable.
How effective is the city in communicating business opportunities to businesses of color? Has it reached out to all of the vendors established in the Madison
area that are on the Wis. Dept. of Commerce’s certified minority business list? What kind of resources are being put into the effort to match MBEs with business
opportunities and what kind of evaluation is done to ensure that city departments are making a good-faith effort to purchase goods and services from MBEs? How
visible are the city’s efforts in these areas? We need to answer these questions and then set about the business of gaining more city business for MBEs.
If there is meaningful, ongoing communication with MBEs and members of the community, we will all reap the benefits.
3. City government’s central role is to provide basic services to citizens: police and fire protection, streets and sanitation, public health, and clean water. More
broadly, our city is the heart of our quality of life: health, economy, the environment, schools, recreation. The programs of the Office of Commu-nity Services are
those that protect and improve our quality of life for seniors, youth, and families. They provide support, address issues community assistance and access, provide
oversight and guidance for child care, and plan and budget for human services. They are the structure for the planning councils and committees that ensure
resident participation and voice, and they advise the city government regarding social services. These programs provide an economic and social lifeline, and
they allow our community to flourish.
In hard times, with a declining (or recovering) economy, underrepresented and vulnerable communities are hit the hardest, and community services are
more important than ever. As we have recently seen, the economy takes a toll on private funding for non-profits and other safety nets. Healthy families, good
child care, access to services – all of these needs are more acute when household resources are under pressure. The city’s role in planning, coordination, and
oversight of services becomes even more valuable. For that reason, I support solid funding for the Office, and will give that a high priority.
4. Our economy and complex community relies on all workers: professional and blue collar; part-time and full-time, public and private sector, immigrant and non-
immigrant. My own experience is one of an immigrant’s ideal, and I am grateful to Madison for the opportunities it has afforded so many people.
All immigrants, documented or not, contribute resources to our community in terms of taxes, time, work, and quality of life. By definition, all workers are
participants in our economy and community as a whole. Their lives are neither separate nor distinct from the rest of the community, and their contributions are
equally valuable. They are part and parcel of our neighborhoods, schools, culture, and more. And, just as the well-being of non-immigrants affects the entire
community, so does the well-being of documented and undocumented immigrants. Equal access to goods and services, by all who are a part of the community,
strengthens us as a whole and protects our quality of life.
5. The stimulus package offers unprecedented opportunities to improve our existing infrastructure, improve transportation, and create jobs. We need to match our
pursuit of stimulus funds to both the areas targeted by the federal government and existing priorities in Madison. Some of my priorities for the use of the stimulus
money are: Pushing forth a Regional Transit Authority; Emergency Shelter Grants to prevent evictions; Creation of affordable housing and economic
opportunities though CDBG; Public housing improvements through CDA; Fire department remodeling of Station 2 to accommodate a double company;
Replacement of Metro diesel buses to hybrid buses; Purchase of additional paratransit buses; Upgrade of city facilities for energy efficiency and use of renewable
energy; Support for green city and green jobs through the Efficiency & Conservation Block Grants.
1. The City of Madison is surrounded by topnotch centers of education, with MATC, Edgewood and UW-Madison all
close by. While these local educational institutions produce highly qualified and diverse individuals, the City needs to
coordinate better recruiting efforts that are both broad-based and tailored, both inside and outside these realms of
education. The goal should be to recruit a qualified, diverse applicant pool. Additionally, the city’s Department of Civil
Rights should be focusing on improving continuing adult education opportunities so that additional individuals receive
the educational opportunities needed for employment across city departments and employment classifications.
2. When the city looks to develop economic opportunities in the city, or allocate TIF funds, MBEs should have a greater
part in that discussion. With minorities frequently having less access to credit, small businesses microlending for MBEs
should be a greater priority to improve the quality and quantity of MBEs here in the city. There should also be a greater
partnership with the Department of Civil Rights, the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce and their Small Business
Advisory Council to foster and facilitate better development and networking of minority business owners.
3. Basic civil services, like access to healthcare, social and justice services and education should not be denied to the
children, dependents and those who are here without legal documentation. Every step possible should be taken to get
undocumented workers onto the path of documentation and full citizenship so that they may fully enjoy the benefits of
residing here legally.
4. There are a number of funds available for making old homes and affordable housing energy efficient. With such a
historic district with many aged and rental properties, federal stimulus funds would be greatly welcomed in our
neighborhood here in District 2 to modernize our 19th century homes. There are also vast quantities of dollars available
for transportation infrastructure. I’d be prioritizing to get funding to greatly improve Madison Metro’s service and route
close by. While these local educational institutions produce highly qualified and diverse individuals, the City needs to
coordinate better recruiting efforts that are both broad-based and tailored, both inside and outside these realms of
education. The goal should be to recruit a qualified, diverse applicant pool. Additionally, the city’s Department of Civil
Rights should be focusing on improving continuing adult education opportunities so that additional individuals receive
the educational opportunities needed for employment across city departments and employment classifications.
2. When the city looks to develop economic opportunities in the city, or allocate TIF funds, MBEs should have a greater
part in that discussion. With minorities frequently having less access to credit, small businesses microlending for MBEs
should be a greater priority to improve the quality and quantity of MBEs here in the city. There should also be a greater
partnership with the Department of Civil Rights, the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce and their Small Business
Advisory Council to foster and facilitate better development and networking of minority business owners.
3. Basic civil services, like access to healthcare, social and justice services and education should not be denied to the
children, dependents and those who are here without legal documentation. Every step possible should be taken to get
undocumented workers onto the path of documentation and full citizenship so that they may fully enjoy the benefits of
residing here legally.
4. There are a number of funds available for making old homes and affordable housing energy efficient. With such a
historic district with many aged and rental properties, federal stimulus funds would be greatly welcomed in our
neighborhood here in District 2 to modernize our 19th century homes. There are also vast quantities of dollars available
for transportation infrastructure. I’d be prioritizing to get funding to greatly improve Madison Metro’s service and route
Bridget Maniaci
District 2
District 2
quality, bike path improvements, and I’m supportive of efforts to use stimulus funds to bring rail from Milwaukee to Madison and link the city (at long last!) to
Chicago. The stimulus funds give us an unprecedented opportunity to create a quality regional transportation system that incorporates all corners of the city and
outlying areas in an efficient and improved manner.
5. The Office of Community Services provides incredibly valuable resources and services to many residents of Madison. The work the department does is critical
to advancing the success and prosperity of many citizens and its strategies require support. Its future success needs to be supported by the city council and the
mayor, and I encourage the office’s support now and in the future. In these tough economic times, the last thing that should occur is a reduction in child care
and providing information, assistance, and funding to individuals most in need in our society. Reducing resources that enhance the health and quality of life in
Madison’s neighborhoods for the elderly, youth and families is a move I will fight against on the council.
6. In District 2 right now we have a proposal from Stone House Development to create some 90 units of green-built, Section 42 affordable housing right in the
heart of downtown Madison. It is a well conceived proposal and would be a huge asset to the neighborhood as a supply of affordable housing for low-income
families that exceeds the city’s housing codes. How neighborhoods age speaks volumes about the priorities of the community around them. I want to fight to
ensure that the old houses in our neighborhood that have largely been monopolized for some 30 years as student housing revert back into a mixed neighborhood
of workforce housing. The properties currently have many issues when it comes to complying with city housing codes, and a large focus of my time as alder will
be to work to see these properties are renovated, maintained, are safe and are of quality, and that the integrity of the neighborhood’s affordable housing is
preserved.
Chicago. The stimulus funds give us an unprecedented opportunity to create a quality regional transportation system that incorporates all corners of the city and
outlying areas in an efficient and improved manner.
5. The Office of Community Services provides incredibly valuable resources and services to many residents of Madison. The work the department does is critical
to advancing the success and prosperity of many citizens and its strategies require support. Its future success needs to be supported by the city council and the
mayor, and I encourage the office’s support now and in the future. In these tough economic times, the last thing that should occur is a reduction in child care
and providing information, assistance, and funding to individuals most in need in our society. Reducing resources that enhance the health and quality of life in
Madison’s neighborhoods for the elderly, youth and families is a move I will fight against on the council.
6. In District 2 right now we have a proposal from Stone House Development to create some 90 units of green-built, Section 42 affordable housing right in the
heart of downtown Madison. It is a well conceived proposal and would be a huge asset to the neighborhood as a supply of affordable housing for low-income
families that exceeds the city’s housing codes. How neighborhoods age speaks volumes about the priorities of the community around them. I want to fight to
ensure that the old houses in our neighborhood that have largely been monopolized for some 30 years as student housing revert back into a mixed neighborhood
of workforce housing. The properties currently have many issues when it comes to complying with city housing codes, and a large focus of my time as alder will
be to work to see these properties are renovated, maintained, are safe and are of quality, and that the integrity of the neighborhood’s affordable housing is
preserved.
community. While a detailed analysis of how our city should deal with the problem of undocumented workers is not possible given the space constraints of this
questionnaire, we must strive to strike the right balance between encouraging our citizens to follow the law and not unreasonably restricting access to services
for families in need.
4. We need to use our share of federal stimulus funds to invest in our city’s future by emphasizing infrastructure improvements, addressing our transit problems,
revitalizing our city’s arts and cultural districts, and spending our resources in ways that act as an economic catalyst for our Madison. By investing in projects
that provide jobs at all income levels, we will see many corollary benefits, including increased home ownership, a decrease in crime, and an expanding tax
base. In addition, this increase in revenue will allow our city to expend greater resources on other priorities, including social services, affordable housing
programs, and joint initiatives to improve air and water quality.
5. The Office of Community Services serves a very important function in our city and often its constituents require the greatest assistance in times of economic
crisis. This makes funding issues even more critical in these times of budget cutbacks and economic uncertainty. In order to ensure appropriate funding for this
office and other important governmental agencies, our city must focus on growing revenue by implementing our 3-5 year Economic Development Plan and
using every tool in our economic development toolkit to generate both private and public sector jobs and expand our tax base. Meeting these strategic
objectives will be crucial in helping us further other city-wide goals, including the work of the Office of Community Services.
6. Providing safe, affordable housing to Madison families will prove extremely important in the coming years, particularly if our economy continues to struggle.
To me, affordable housing means quality and available housing for all income segments of our population. If elected, one of my priorities will be to work with
the Affordable Housing Action Alliance (“AHAA”), The Tenant Resource Center, Alder Konkel, City Staff, and the many other civic organizations and leaders
committed to addressing the need for more affordable housing in our community. Recent studies have made clear that there are many levels of need and we
must work to ensure that all of these segments are being addressed. It is also clear that our current strategies are not as effective as we need them to be.
In that regard, my housing agenda will include a multifaceted approach. First, we must work with other community leaders to adjust our Affordable Housing
Trust Fund practices so we can use the fund as soon as possible. It is quite troubling that we have over $4 million in the fund that currently remains
inaccessible. Second, many Madison residents continue to struggle with simply making their monthly rent payments and our policy initiatives should emphasize
Section 8 voucher improvements. Third, we must incorporate our affordable housing strategies at the district level. In my neighborhood, we need to ensure that
our corridor plan, currently in process, includes affordable housing components. Fourth, we should consider revisiting the decision to tax non profit housing
agency properties, many of whom already face significant financial shortfalls. Fifth, we should consider implementing a “One Stop Shop” concept that could be
administered through the offices that are currently running the soon-to-be-ending Inclusionary Zoning program. Finally, a significant housing issue in my
neighborhood, and many of our communities, is housing revitalization of dilapidated properties. One of my goals will be to help new owner-occupiers purchase
and renovate these buildings with some government assistance. There are many templates for effectuating this type of program, include down-payment
assistance and low interest rehab loans, and the city should work collaboratively with private partners to analyze which programs would provide the most
efficient use of our precious resources.
questionnaire, we must strive to strike the right balance between encouraging our citizens to follow the law and not unreasonably restricting access to services
for families in need.
4. We need to use our share of federal stimulus funds to invest in our city’s future by emphasizing infrastructure improvements, addressing our transit problems,
revitalizing our city’s arts and cultural districts, and spending our resources in ways that act as an economic catalyst for our Madison. By investing in projects
that provide jobs at all income levels, we will see many corollary benefits, including increased home ownership, a decrease in crime, and an expanding tax
base. In addition, this increase in revenue will allow our city to expend greater resources on other priorities, including social services, affordable housing
programs, and joint initiatives to improve air and water quality.
5. The Office of Community Services serves a very important function in our city and often its constituents require the greatest assistance in times of economic
crisis. This makes funding issues even more critical in these times of budget cutbacks and economic uncertainty. In order to ensure appropriate funding for this
office and other important governmental agencies, our city must focus on growing revenue by implementing our 3-5 year Economic Development Plan and
using every tool in our economic development toolkit to generate both private and public sector jobs and expand our tax base. Meeting these strategic
objectives will be crucial in helping us further other city-wide goals, including the work of the Office of Community Services.
6. Providing safe, affordable housing to Madison families will prove extremely important in the coming years, particularly if our economy continues to struggle.
To me, affordable housing means quality and available housing for all income segments of our population. If elected, one of my priorities will be to work with
the Affordable Housing Action Alliance (“AHAA”), The Tenant Resource Center, Alder Konkel, City Staff, and the many other civic organizations and leaders
committed to addressing the need for more affordable housing in our community. Recent studies have made clear that there are many levels of need and we
must work to ensure that all of these segments are being addressed. It is also clear that our current strategies are not as effective as we need them to be.
In that regard, my housing agenda will include a multifaceted approach. First, we must work with other community leaders to adjust our Affordable Housing
Trust Fund practices so we can use the fund as soon as possible. It is quite troubling that we have over $4 million in the fund that currently remains
inaccessible. Second, many Madison residents continue to struggle with simply making their monthly rent payments and our policy initiatives should emphasize
Section 8 voucher improvements. Third, we must incorporate our affordable housing strategies at the district level. In my neighborhood, we need to ensure that
our corridor plan, currently in process, includes affordable housing components. Fourth, we should consider revisiting the decision to tax non profit housing
agency properties, many of whom already face significant financial shortfalls. Fifth, we should consider implementing a “One Stop Shop” concept that could be
administered through the offices that are currently running the soon-to-be-ending Inclusionary Zoning program. Finally, a significant housing issue in my
neighborhood, and many of our communities, is housing revitalization of dilapidated properties. One of my goals will be to help new owner-occupiers purchase
and renovate these buildings with some government assistance. There are many templates for effectuating this type of program, include down-payment
assistance and low interest rehab loans, and the city should work collaboratively with private partners to analyze which programs would provide the most
efficient use of our precious resources.
1. As you know, a recent survey implemented by the staff of the Affirmative Action office revealed that the City has a fairly
disappointing record in terms of recruiting both a diverse staff and with respect to the recruitment of citizens for city committees.
These survey results are very troubling and the City should take steps to improve its efforts at increasing diversity in its hiring and
appointment processes, as well as in its purchasing and contracting. Many consider Madison one of America’s most progressive
cities. In many ways, however, actions speak louder than words. This applies not only in the context of improving diversity in our
city, but also in our approach to attracting businesses and generating economic growth. If elected alder, I would work with the
Affirmative Action office to develop an action plan with specific benchmarks and deadlines for the City to follow in remedying
this problem. While such plans are sometimes criticized, we must emphasize that prioritizing diversity is not about quotas; it is
about giving everyone who wants to participate an equal opportunity to compete in the marketplace.
2. The City should make equal treatment of qualified contractors a priority when allocating city contracts and when incentivizing
decisions in the private market. The City needs to work with MBEs to ensure their awareness of these contracting opportunities
and develop programs to assist these businesses so that they are in a position to be considered as a qualified contractor by both
public and private sector purchasers. We should also be mindful that many of these businesses are locally owned and that the
economic generator of “buying local” should be a key strategy for sustaining our city’s economy. If elected, I will take a
leadership role in policy development that ensures a seat at the table for minority and locally-owned businesses and that their
concerns do not go ignored in implementing our city’s economic goals.
3. We must make every effort to treat all our residents with dignity and respect, regardless of their heritage or status in the
disappointing record in terms of recruiting both a diverse staff and with respect to the recruitment of citizens for city committees.
These survey results are very troubling and the City should take steps to improve its efforts at increasing diversity in its hiring and
appointment processes, as well as in its purchasing and contracting. Many consider Madison one of America’s most progressive
cities. In many ways, however, actions speak louder than words. This applies not only in the context of improving diversity in our
city, but also in our approach to attracting businesses and generating economic growth. If elected alder, I would work with the
Affirmative Action office to develop an action plan with specific benchmarks and deadlines for the City to follow in remedying
this problem. While such plans are sometimes criticized, we must emphasize that prioritizing diversity is not about quotas; it is
about giving everyone who wants to participate an equal opportunity to compete in the marketplace.
2. The City should make equal treatment of qualified contractors a priority when allocating city contracts and when incentivizing
decisions in the private market. The City needs to work with MBEs to ensure their awareness of these contracting opportunities
and develop programs to assist these businesses so that they are in a position to be considered as a qualified contractor by both
public and private sector purchasers. We should also be mindful that many of these businesses are locally owned and that the
economic generator of “buying local” should be a key strategy for sustaining our city’s economy. If elected, I will take a
leadership role in policy development that ensures a seat at the table for minority and locally-owned businesses and that their
concerns do not go ignored in implementing our city’s economic goals.
3. We must make every effort to treat all our residents with dignity and respect, regardless of their heritage or status in the
Hamilton Arendsen
District 5
District 5
Shiva Bidar-Sielaff
District 5
District 5
. I believe in and practice an outcome-based approach to policy and decision making that is inclusive of all voices and
perspectives. In order to ensure the best quality of life for all of us, city government must be inclusive by acting as an
effective partner with citizens, organizations, businesses, schools, and other units of government. While this question is
about inclusiveness, representation and equity, it is also a question about the quality we deserve and expect from our city.
We cannot provide the best service possible if we are not representative of our community’s increasing diversity.
Fortunately, there are successful public and private models we can look to as we move towards a city government and staff
who truly represent us all.
In order to facilitate better representation of communities of color throughout the city structure, I propose three steps:
-Understand the need: Is there enough dialogue between the city and communities of color? Is there representation in city
committees, task forces, advisory groups? Which departments have had success in developing a diverse staff? Which have
had the greatest challenges? What have they done differently, and why? Are recruitment strategies department-specific?
-Make the commitment: Is there strong leadership at every level, to affirm the shared responsibility of outreach and
proportional representation? Are necessary resources provided to make needed changes? Is there equal commitment to
training and promoting, as there is to recruitment? Does the city hold itself and its partners to the same high standard?
-Recruit and retain: Are we utilizing the most appropriate media to advertise open positions? Are we building alliances and
engaging in outreach even when there are no openings? Are position descriptions reflective of the experiences and skill
sets we need? Are selection committees representative of communities of color and other diversity? Are new staff
integrated into the decision making processes? Is there an expectation of – and a commitment of resources to
perspectives. In order to ensure the best quality of life for all of us, city government must be inclusive by acting as an
effective partner with citizens, organizations, businesses, schools, and other units of government. While this question is
about inclusiveness, representation and equity, it is also a question about the quality we deserve and expect from our city.
We cannot provide the best service possible if we are not representative of our community’s increasing diversity.
Fortunately, there are successful public and private models we can look to as we move towards a city government and staff
who truly represent us all.
In order to facilitate better representation of communities of color throughout the city structure, I propose three steps:
-Understand the need: Is there enough dialogue between the city and communities of color? Is there representation in city
committees, task forces, advisory groups? Which departments have had success in developing a diverse staff? Which have
had the greatest challenges? What have they done differently, and why? Are recruitment strategies department-specific?
-Make the commitment: Is there strong leadership at every level, to affirm the shared responsibility of outreach and
proportional representation? Are necessary resources provided to make needed changes? Is there equal commitment to
training and promoting, as there is to recruitment? Does the city hold itself and its partners to the same high standard?
-Recruit and retain: Are we utilizing the most appropriate media to advertise open positions? Are we building alliances and
engaging in outreach even when there are no openings? Are position descriptions reflective of the experiences and skill
sets we need? Are selection committees representative of communities of color and other diversity? Are new staff
integrated into the decision making processes? Is there an expectation of – and a commitment of resources to
4. Federal stimulus funds are intended to create jobs and have an impact particularly on those that are most affected by the economic downturn. Any monies
spent by the City that are in line with these proposals will help everyone. I am particularly concerned about using funds that can improve transit for low income
workers trying to get to jobs and providing and expanding options for affordable housing.
5. These are definitely difficult budget times and the debate over all programs is likely to intensify going forward. I’m hopeful that the stimulus will take some
pressure off, but it is not likely to have a significant impact given the pent-up demand for projects that was already in queue. At this time, with no other
information about how the stimulus might affect the budget process, I am likely to support keeping service level funding at least the same, including funding for
programs funded by the Office of Community Services. Residents in Madison are wary of increasing their property tax burden unless they see key benefits arising
from programs. I can be a part of the voice in advocating for that effectiveness, but the best way I can have an impact on the funding is by helping to increase
the funds available by making other services and programs more efficient.
6. I am aligned with the goals and mission of the Affordable Housing Action Alliance and I hope to be a participant in their efforts to expand the availability of
affordable housing within and around the Madison community. I believe that safe and affordable housing is a right in the world’s wealthiest nation and that we
should do everything we can to make sure that no one is left behind.
spent by the City that are in line with these proposals will help everyone. I am particularly concerned about using funds that can improve transit for low income
workers trying to get to jobs and providing and expanding options for affordable housing.
5. These are definitely difficult budget times and the debate over all programs is likely to intensify going forward. I’m hopeful that the stimulus will take some
pressure off, but it is not likely to have a significant impact given the pent-up demand for projects that was already in queue. At this time, with no other
information about how the stimulus might affect the budget process, I am likely to support keeping service level funding at least the same, including funding for
programs funded by the Office of Community Services. Residents in Madison are wary of increasing their property tax burden unless they see key benefits arising
from programs. I can be a part of the voice in advocating for that effectiveness, but the best way I can have an impact on the funding is by helping to increase
the funds available by making other services and programs more efficient.
6. I am aligned with the goals and mission of the Affordable Housing Action Alliance and I hope to be a participant in their efforts to expand the availability of
affordable housing within and around the Madison community. I believe that safe and affordable housing is a right in the world’s wealthiest nation and that we
should do everything we can to make sure that no one is left behind.
Steve King
District 7
District 7
1. The City recently reviewed its record with regard to the appointments and hiring of minority groups and the results were
disappointing. Even in terms of citizen involvement on commissions and committees, there were significant imbalances. We
need to strive to mirror the community that we live in, however, this is not always an easy task. There are action plans being
developed, and some that are currently in place. As policy-makers, we need to be vigilant on the results of these actions. If
plans are not working, we need to stay at the table to keep the momentum moving in the right direction. We cannot use
simple quotas to ensure that minorities are adequately represented, but there are a number of common sense initiatives that
can and should be used to attract and develop all underrepresented groups into gainful employment, not just City positions.
2. Beyond simply giving preferences through any sort of selection process, the City and affiliated agencies and non-profits
need to work with minority business enterprises to make sure they have the skills and experience to gain a competitive
foothold. The city should highlight private employers who are exemplary at purchasing services from MBEs and strive
internally to make sure that the processes being used for selection are fair and balanced. This is another area where private-
public partnerships are essential to improving results.
3. This is not an easy issue and the public debate has waxed and waned over the past decade. Concerned residents and
interest groups need to keep the pressure on all levels of government for serious immigration reform, which is the root cause
underlying most of this discussion.
One of the key areas where city, county and state officials can have an impact on improving the quality of life and
providing services for undocumented workers has to do with affordable housing. This also extends to aiding the process of
home ownership. It is clear from many studies that if immigrants are able to participate more freely in society, then they are
more able to contribute in return, especially as consumers of other goods and services. The fact that we sometimes make
these avenues difficult is akin to sticking our heads in the sand and ignoring the real issues. The City MUST be a partner,
especially with other nonprofits, in the process of making sure basic human needs are met, regardless of status. It’s a moral
obligation if nothing else.
disappointing. Even in terms of citizen involvement on commissions and committees, there were significant imbalances. We
need to strive to mirror the community that we live in, however, this is not always an easy task. There are action plans being
developed, and some that are currently in place. As policy-makers, we need to be vigilant on the results of these actions. If
plans are not working, we need to stay at the table to keep the momentum moving in the right direction. We cannot use
simple quotas to ensure that minorities are adequately represented, but there are a number of common sense initiatives that
can and should be used to attract and develop all underrepresented groups into gainful employment, not just City positions.
2. Beyond simply giving preferences through any sort of selection process, the City and affiliated agencies and non-profits
need to work with minority business enterprises to make sure they have the skills and experience to gain a competitive
foothold. The city should highlight private employers who are exemplary at purchasing services from MBEs and strive
internally to make sure that the processes being used for selection are fair and balanced. This is another area where private-
public partnerships are essential to improving results.
3. This is not an easy issue and the public debate has waxed and waned over the past decade. Concerned residents and
interest groups need to keep the pressure on all levels of government for serious immigration reform, which is the root cause
underlying most of this discussion.
One of the key areas where city, county and state officials can have an impact on improving the quality of life and
providing services for undocumented workers has to do with affordable housing. This also extends to aiding the process of
home ownership. It is clear from many studies that if immigrants are able to participate more freely in society, then they are
more able to contribute in return, especially as consumers of other goods and services. The fact that we sometimes make
these avenues difficult is akin to sticking our heads in the sand and ignoring the real issues. The City MUST be a partner,
especially with other nonprofits, in the process of making sure basic human needs are met, regardless of status. It’s a moral
obligation if nothing else.
4. My present understanding is that approximately $10 million in stimulus money will be available for use in the Madison area. I would like to see this money
used for local highway, bridge and transportation enhancements such as pedestrian overpasses and purchase of hyrid buses.
5. The recent Poverty Issues & Emerging Needs Forum, hosted by Enis Ragland dramatized the need for the Office of Community Services (OCS) to maintain its
current funding levels for poverty programs. I support the poverty forum initiatives such as creation of living wage jobs, increasing adult self-sufficiency and
improving educational outcomes. None of these recommendations come without a cost and as a city alder I will support the appropriate funding for OCS.
6. Encourage the CDA to look for public housing redevelopment opportunities with future funding from HUD, WHEDA, the city Capital Budget, sale of existing
properties and other financial resources. The upcoming Truax Park Apartments Plan is on the CDA radar screen for 2009. The plan will include both construction
of new public housing and major reconstruction of existing public housing at the Truax site.
used for local highway, bridge and transportation enhancements such as pedestrian overpasses and purchase of hyrid buses.
5. The recent Poverty Issues & Emerging Needs Forum, hosted by Enis Ragland dramatized the need for the Office of Community Services (OCS) to maintain its
current funding levels for poverty programs. I support the poverty forum initiatives such as creation of living wage jobs, increasing adult self-sufficiency and
improving educational outcomes. None of these recommendations come without a cost and as a city alder I will support the appropriate funding for OCS.
6. Encourage the CDA to look for public housing redevelopment opportunities with future funding from HUD, WHEDA, the city Capital Budget, sale of existing
properties and other financial resources. The upcoming Truax Park Apartments Plan is on the CDA radar screen for 2009. The plan will include both construction
of new public housing and major reconstruction of existing public housing at the Truax site.
Joe Clausius
District 17
District 17
At present I am the longest serving member of the City of Madison Affirmative Action Commission (AAC) having been
originally appointed by then Mayor Soglin. During this time the mission of the AAC to provide equal opportunity for area
employees and citizens seeking access to services and employment opportunities has dramatically increased. I am pleased
to have been a part of this process as well as working with Mayor Cieslewicz and other community leaders in the creation of
the Department of Civil Rights in 2005. Along with this introduction, my responses to your questionnaire are listed below:
1. The city of Madison is a progressive employer committed to providing equal employment opportunities for its diverse
population of employees. The Human Resources Department must work with the AAC to ensure that all city job postings and
descriptions reflect Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) and AAC objectives. I also support the Annual Placement Goals
Report, which identifies specific job groups that lack qualified women/minority representation. Employers of such job groups
are expected to set a placement goal for that job group.
2. Madison city policy is that all minority owned businesses be afforded the maximum opportunity to do business with the
city. I will continue to support city policy that all federal funds expended by the city can only include contractors who
comply with federal regulations for participation of minority business enterprises (MBEs). I would also like to increase the
overall goal (currently 10%) of city public works funds that must be expended with small business enterprises (SBEs).
3. The city of Madison does not set immigration policies and rules. Our nation, however, clearly needs immigration reforms
at the national level that will benefit all.
originally appointed by then Mayor Soglin. During this time the mission of the AAC to provide equal opportunity for area
employees and citizens seeking access to services and employment opportunities has dramatically increased. I am pleased
to have been a part of this process as well as working with Mayor Cieslewicz and other community leaders in the creation of
the Department of Civil Rights in 2005. Along with this introduction, my responses to your questionnaire are listed below:
1. The city of Madison is a progressive employer committed to providing equal employment opportunities for its diverse
population of employees. The Human Resources Department must work with the AAC to ensure that all city job postings and
descriptions reflect Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) and AAC objectives. I also support the Annual Placement Goals
Report, which identifies specific job groups that lack qualified women/minority representation. Employers of such job groups
are expected to set a placement goal for that job group.
2. Madison city policy is that all minority owned businesses be afforded the maximum opportunity to do business with the
city. I will continue to support city policy that all federal funds expended by the city can only include contractors who
comply with federal regulations for participation of minority business enterprises (MBEs). I would also like to increase the
overall goal (currently 10%) of city public works funds that must be expended with small business enterprises (SBEs).
3. The city of Madison does not set immigration policies and rules. Our nation, however, clearly needs immigration reforms
at the national level that will benefit all.