CITY OF MADISON COMMON COUNCIL ADOPTS MAYOR BOB COURTNEY'S 2026

Madison, Indiana (October 21, 2025) – The Common Council of the City of Madison has unanimously (5-0) adopted the City's 2026 budget totaling $15.9 million (excluding utilities), subject to DLGF approval. The plan preserves essential city services, prioritizes public safety, housing, and quality of life initiatives, while addressing new fiscal challenges created by Senate Enrolled Act (SEA) 1 and ongoing inflationary pressures.

When combined with the City's utility services, the total cost of operating the City next year approaches $26 million. The 2026 budget leverages tax dollars, grants, reserves, Tax Increment Financing (TIF) funds, charitable contributions, private investment, and user fees to balance investments across the community.

"The 2026 budget builds on our shared progress and represents a continued commitment to investing in safe neighborhoods, strong infrastructure, and a quality of life that continues to make our City one of Indiana's best places to live, work, and visit," said Mayor Bob Courtney. "Despite the new financial constraints created by SEA 1 and inflation, we remain committed to delivering essential services and advancing the strategic priorities that keep Madison moving forward."

Key priorities for 2026 include:

  • Main Street Infrastructure Project: Continued investment in the multi-year reconstruction and pedestrian safety improvements along Main Street, modernizing a key corridor through the historic district.
  • Park Improvements: Completion of the full Welch Park redesign, adding amenities for all ages, and beginning improvements at the Brown Gym, Rucker Sports Complex, and Sunrise Golf Course to better serve Madison's growing community.
  • Blight Elimination & Neighborhood Revitalization: Continued efforts to eliminate vacant and abandoned structures, leveraging TIF dollars to fund the PACE Grant Program to help property owners reinvest in their homes and neighborhoods.
  • Infrastructure & Connectivity: Completion of the West End Gateway and Connector Trail, expanding walkability and connectivity; continued investments in the Madison Railroad, including the transload facility to attract new businesses, and at the Madison Regional Airport, including runway expansion and new hangar development; a continued additional commitment of $1 million annually for local road and sidewalk improvements.
  • Housing Initiatives: Ongoing investment in housing development both downtown and on the hilltop, supporting a balanced and sustainable housing market.
  •  Public Safety: Investment in new equipment, updated technology, and enhanced training for first responders.
  • Community Support: Continued investment in programs and partnerships that support veterans, at-risk youth, active adults and seniors, and participants in the Jefferson County JCAP program, along with increased funding to the Jefferson County Animal Shelter.

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