Madison College's Smart Community Plan Going to Voters

The Madison Area Technical College Board of Trustees unanimously approved a resolution on Wednesday, September 8, that will ask voters for $133,770,000 to build a new Health Services Education Center, Advanced Green Manufacturing Center and a Protective Services Education Center.

The plan, which will be included on the November ballot, also includes renovation, expansion and upgrades for all campuses in Madison College’s 12 county district. The tax increase on a $245,000 home would average about $33 a year for the next 20 years.

Although the College’s comprehensive facilities plan totaled $380 million, the Board reduced the scope of the plan out of concern for taxpayers. 

“The Board did its due diligence to balance the clear needs the community had with its ability to afford these needs,” says District Board Chair Jon Bales. “The College has the responsibility to serve the needs of the community and the Board took this step to do that now and in the future.” 

Madison College President Bettsey Barhorst praised the Board for its support and vision. 

“This plan provides an opportunity for more students to learn in high-tech classrooms,” says Barhorst. “It’s what our students need for increasingly complex jobs that are essential to our community and our local economy.” 

The Board made its decision after a public hearing earlier in the evening, in which six people made comments. The last time Madison Area Technical College went to referendum was more than 35 years ago.