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The Ins and Outs of Madison's Local Government

Posted on March 27, 2023   |   Updated on September 30, 2025

Abby Becker

Photo by Hayley Sperling

Photo by Hayley Sperling

Do you ever wonder who’s in charge of filling the pothole on your street? Or determining your property taxes? When it’s local election season, do you know who alders or supervisors are?

These roles are filled by local residents who might just be your neighbors.

“Local government impacts every member of the community in a variety of ways every single day,” Dane County Board Chair Patrick Miles said. “The great thing about local government is that your elected officials live in your neighborhood, shop at the same grocery stores, and also share concerns similar to yours.”

This civics guide from Madison Minutes breaks down what local government looks like and does in Madison and Dane County.

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