Dear MadNorSki Community,
By now you’ve likely heard about the Madison City Budget Referendum that will appear on your ballot this November 5th. The Board of the Madison Nordic Ski Club Board and I would like to encourage you not only to get out and vote this fall, but also to vote “yes” on this essential measure to address the deficit in the city’s budget.
In addition to many of the cuts to city services we may face should this measure not pass, we are certain to see significant changes to winter recreation services city-wide. The Madnorski board is concerned about the reduced access and services to city parks that will affect all residents in all districts – an outcome that goes against our mission of creating events and programs that encourage an active, outdoor and healthy lifestyle for all ages. Our Executive Director, Tamara Bryant, has met with City of Madison Parks staff so that we can better understand the ramifications of either outcome.
Impacts to Parks and Winter Recreation
As one of the fastest-growing cities in Wisconsin, it is no surprise that the Madison-area demand on city services has increased significantly in the past ten years. Unfortunately, the state aid distributed to our city by the legislature has not grown to support the booming population and its needs. The Wisconsin State Journal reported that last year, Madison received less state aid per resident than all but one of Wisconsin’s 1,848 cities, villages, and towns.
In addition to probable cuts to public safety, libraries, the Goodman Pool, city sanitation, and infrastructure, Madison Parks will be asked to reduce its operating budget. Some of the proposed cuts are to eliminate ALL winter recreation rentals (skis, poles, snowshoes, and ice skates), closing many park restrooms and all winter shelters, plus no ice rinks or ice skating
Note however, that Madison Parks will continue to collect fees for ski permits so there should be minimal impact to grooming at Elver Park. The Madnorski trails and grooming crew will continue to collaborate with Parks to keep the trails ready for skiing as usual.
What Can We Do?
We ask you to give this referendum your full support by voting “yes”. We have been so fortunate to have had great partnerships with City of Madison Parks staff with trail building and grooming, and now is the time to show them our support! As a club whose mission is rooted in the enjoyment of the outdoors, cuts to our Parks are detrimental, regardless of the season.
Be well and think snow,
Sincerely,
Carrie Eaton
Madnorski Board President
