Common Council: Meeting of August 4, 2026

The City of Madison Common Council held a meeting on August 4, 2026, primarily focused on public comment regarding police oversight and the recent police-involved shooting of Corey Ruiz. The council discussed several agenda items related to budget amendments and contracts, including public art projects and grant acceptances, but the main emphasis was on the Office of the Independent Police Monitor (OIPM) and the Police Civilian Oversight Board (PCOB). Numerous community members spoke passionately about the need for fully funding and empowering these oversight bodies, with many calling for at least 1% of the Madison Police Department's budget (approximately $1.3 million) to be allocated to the OIPM. Speakers also demanded full cooperation from the police department in investigations, transparency, and accountability, especially concerning the investigation into Corey Ruiz's death. The meeting included a lengthy public comment session with over 100 registrants, many expressing frustration with police actions, the mayor's response, and the council's handling of oversight. The council agreed to withdraw proposed amendments that would have limited the OIPM's authority and committed to a restorative process to strengthen police oversight. A motion was introduced to request a full accounting of additional police costs related to recent events and to authorize equivalent funding for the OIPM to conduct investigations and policy studies. The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to adjourn after a recess, with council members acknowledging the difficult and emotional nature of the discussions.