Dane County is reviewing how it does contracts. Here’s what nonprofits want to change.
by Robert Chappell
February 26, 2026
Dane County Executive Melissa Agard has directed Dane County agencies to undertake a comprehensive review of how the county develops, manages, and oversees its contracts — a sprawling portfolio that includes roughly 800 contracts with more than 400 vendors, totaling an average of $272 million annually. The review, led by the Department of Administration, is […]
Dane County could face $31 million deficit in 2027, with more in the future, controller says
by Robert Chappell
February 26, 2026
Dane County could face a budget deficit of nearly $32 million in 2027, with very few options to close the gap, according to a memo prepared by Controller Charles Hicklin and obtained by Madison365. The memo, provided to County Executive Melissa Agard on February 18 and forwarded to County Supervisors, lays out how an increase […]
Nearly blind refugee found dead in New York days after immigration agents dropped him at a coffee shop alone, officials say
by CNN
February 26, 2026
By Hanna Park, Taylor Romine, CNN (CNN) — The death of a nearly blind refugee in Buffalo, New York, days after Border Patrol agents dropped him off at a coffee shop alone, has prompted an investigation into the circumstances of his final days and drawn sharp criticism from the mayor, who called the incident […]
Trump admin halts Medicaid payments to Minnesota over fraud claims
by CNN
February 26, 2026
By Adam Cancryn, Tami Luhby, CNN (CNN) — The Trump administration is withholding more than $250 million in Medicaid funds from Minnesota, claiming widespread fraud as it escalates a pressure campaign on the state’s Democratic leadership. Vice President JD Vance announced the extraordinary move on Wednesday, blaming Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz for failing to adequately […]
Foundation for Black Women’s Wellness gets $1.75 million from Merck Foundation for cardiac care
by Madison365 staff
February 25, 2026
The Foundation for Black Women’s Wellness has received a five-year, $1.75 million grant from the Merck Foundation to join the Collaborative for Equity in Cardiac Care, a national initiative aimed at expanding access to cardiovascular care for people living with heart conditions. The foundation, based in Wisconsin, is one of 11 organizations nationwide selected for […]
