Council of Madison deliberates on financing for Dairy Drive's temporary shelter for homeless population
The Dairy Drive homeless campground on Madison's eastside has reached a critical juncture, with a decision looming at the Madison Common Council meeting. The motion to extend the contract for the campground's operation fell short of the necessary votes, leaving the campground's future uncertain.
The city has been using COVID-era federal relief funding to keep the campground operational, but these funds have now been exhausted. Alder Davy Mayer of District 6 sponsored the motion to extend the contract, arguing that the campground has benefitted the community and they should at least be able to stay through the winter. Ten alders voted in favour of the motion, nine voted against it, and one alder abstained, resulting in the motion's failure.
If the Council does not vote to extend the contract, they will move forward with the demolition, and all residents of the campground will have to vacate by September 26. The city has previously renewed contracts with Madison Street Medicine to continue services for the past four years.
Brenda Konkel, the executive director of Madison Street Medicine, stated that her organization can keep the campground running without the city's help. However, funding remains a significant concern, as Madison Street Medicine is responsible for the campground's finances, with a potential for funding from Dane County. Yet, there is currently no agreement for county funding.
The city council members are divided on the issue, with debates focusing on funding, shelter capacity, and community impact. City of Madison Common Council President Regina Vidaveer expressed concerns about the prolonged closure of the Dairy Drive campground.
The first step for Madison Street Medicine is to get the city to approve the extended contract to prevent the site's demolition. If the extended contract is approved, the operations of the Dairy Drive campground would have zero financial responsibility for the city until April 2026.
A Dairy Drive camper shared that the campground is a place for visitation with their son, making food, playing basketball, and taking him to the park. Brenda Konkel emphasized that Dairy Drive is a place where people feel safe and can be themselves. She pleaded, "Please don't forget that."
The vote on Tuesday will determine the fate of the Dairy Drive campground. Whether the campground continues to serve as a sanctuary for those in need or faces demolition, the decision will have a significant impact on the lives of its residents and the community at large.
