City council approves Madison Inn and Suites demolition

MADISON – The Madison City Council approved the demolition of Madison Inn & Suites located at 8716 Madison Boulevard at last week’s city council meeting.

The hotel has sat vacant after a fire on August 13, 2025 did substantial damage to the building.

“Subsequent inspections saw the building significantly damaged and in an unsafe condition, constituting a public nuisance. To get the building back into compliance with the city’s current codes, it would require complete reconfiguration of electrical, mechanical, plumbing, gas, and life safety systems,” said a city representative.

Since the fire, the owners have failed to make repairs to bring the building back up to city code.

“We have not received a potential construction schedule or financials that would indicate a remediation plan from the owner or anybody with an interest in the property,” said the city representative. “Therefore, based on the scope and cost of the required work that would need to be done, city staff recommends that city council order the building for demolition.”

Over the last year, the building was a hotspot for crime and the site of 125 routine police patrols and 233 calls for service.

Mayor Ranae Bartlett said demolition is the most cost effective and beneficial option for the city.

“I see no reason to extend this any further to require our officers to continue any further servicing of this location and further crime to be committed,” said Bartlett.

The council ultimately voted for demolition of the building. The owner will have to demolish the building within a deadline before the city takes control of the property.

City Council hears first readings of short-term rental ordinances

The Madison City Council heard a first reading of an ordinance establishing regulations for short-term rentals (STRs) at the May 26 city council meeting.

The proposed ordinance details requirements for permit applications and STR operators as well as a citywide cap.

The ordinance prescribes short-term rentals be contained to .75% of the total housing supply. The city would currently issue a maximum of 190 permits.

Applicants for shortterm rental permits would need to provide proof of insurance, contact information for the Local Contact Person, and the names and addresses of all owners of residential property adjacent to the short-term rental. Upon issuance of the permit, STR owners would be required to provide written notice to all owners and occupants of neighboring property.

The ordinance prohibits the use of STRs for large events, including parties or concerts.

“This ordinance also provides for a three strikes enforcement plan. So if there are multiple complaints against a short-term rental, the license may be suspended or revoked,” said City Attorney Megan Zingarelli.

An accompanying proposed zoning ordinance would allow STRs in all Residential, Mixed-Use, and Agriculture areas based on a recommendation from the Planning Commission.

An additional recommendation proposes a change in the definition of a short-term rental from 30 days or less to 180 days or less.

“The definition change has come after further examination and input received by the city attorney’s office,” added Director of Development Services Mary Beth Broeren.

A public hearing and subsequent vote by the city council on the ordinances is set for June 22.