MADISON, Wis. (WMTV) - The Madison Common Council approved a capital and operating budget for 2026, officials said Tuesday.

Officials added that the City Budget includes the lowest tax rate in at least 40 years.

The city’s property tax bills will increase by about $2.50 a month, or $30 a year, on the average valued home. This is below the rate of inflation and almost $5 million below the maximum allowed under Wisconsin’s levy limit, City officials noted.

The Operating Budget for 2026 includes more funding for several priorities within the city, including (their words):

An unprecedented investment in homeless services with $1.7 million in support for the new homeless shelter.

Staffing for the new Imagination Center, which is scheduled to open in the fall of 2026. This $1.2 million inve

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