Know the Facts for Madison’s
May 6th Academy School
Referendum Vote
Budget Proposal Overview
The revised budget proposal for the Academy School Community Center is $24 million, comprised of:
- $15,900,000 in municipal bonding (Madison Taxpayer)
- $7,625,000 in secured state and federal grants
- $475,000 in potential new grants or donations
- This does NOT include $400K in first-year operating costs*
*NOTE: The $400K includes a salaried position; expect annual increases due to salary and healthcare costs as this expense becomes part of the recurring operating budget.
These figures are based on Q4 2024 bid estimates and are subject to final adjustments.
A Look Back at the History
In 2022, Madison voters approved a referendum to bond $16 million* for a community center—with the understanding, written into the referendum question, that any grants obtained would offset part of the bonding amount. $8 Million* in grants were obtained, leaving Madison Taxpayers to cover $8 Million in bonding. Today, however, taxpayers are being asked to cover the full $16 million bonding, as grants will only reduce the total by half. This effectively doubles the amount initially proposed.
*Both amounts have been rounded to the nearest million
Is a New Community Center Necessary?
Madison already benefits from multiple community and arts spaces, including:
-
Madison Town Hall
-
Madison Senior Center
-
Scranton Library
-
The Arts Barn
-
Surf Club (seasonal)
A private assessment (based on FOIA-obtained outlook calendars and occupancy spreadsheets) indicates current usage rates range from 4-15%—with the Surf Club reaching 25% during peak season.
Assessment was created using FOIA requests for town outlook calendars and excel spreadsheets used to manage occupancy. The Town of Madison does not track usage data so can not say with any accuracy what the utilization of this building will be, besides putting town employees in the building full time.
Madison’s Broader Financial Picture
- 2024 Operating Budget: $ 97,619,256, which averages about $22,000
per family of four—with annual increases unless voters intervene. - Additional Projects Underway totaling over $125,000,000:
- $89 million for Neck River Elementary
- $24 million for the Academy School Community Center (excluding operating costs)
- $14 million estimated for Surf Club renovations (planning begins Spring 2025)
NOTE: None of these bonding measures include operating costs, which will become fixed annual expenses.
As the cost of maintaining schools, infrastructure, and recreational spaces continues to rise, any new space brings ongoing financial commitments. Last year’s significant tax increase highlights the strain on Madison residents.
The question remains: Where will additional funding come from?
Make Your Voice Heard
Your vote on May 6th is crucial.
If you won’t be here, request an absentee ballot today—because you can’t afford not to vote.