Mayor Bartlett takes action to improve Madison Boulevard
MADISON – Question: When can destruction of free-standing (hopefully still standing) buildings represent a positive step for a city? Answer: When the removal of abandoned, decrepit structures start the reclamation of a thoroughfare to the city.
“Maintaining a beautiful, welcoming and thriving city is one of the driving forces behind the work we do . . . This week brought meaningful progress along one of our most visible corridors: the long-vacant gas station at the corner of Sullivan Street and Madison Boulevard,” Bartlett said. “Property owners agreed to tear down the buildings after the city contacted the company with concerns.”
At its May 26 meeting, Madison City Council unanimously approved demolition of Madison Inn and Suites at 8716 Madison Blvd. After a damaging fire in August 2025, the building sat in disrepair and even attracted criminal activity. “The property owner has a deadline to appeal or provide a timeline for the owner to complete the demolition,” Bartlett said. “If that deadline is missed, the city will proceed with demolition and place a lien on the property.”
In that discussion, Bartlett was adamant for decision-making action (“Tonight!”) by council to alleviate the remains of the motel property. She said the city has ignored the situation too long . . . an opinion likely shared by most Madison citizens.
“These actions mark a major milestone in ongoing efforts to revitalize and improve the Madison Boulevard corridor . . . Madison Boulevard serves as an important first impression for residents, businesses and visitors entering our city,” Bartlett said.
“We are excited about the possibilities ahead . . . (as) Madison continues to grow in a way that reflects the pride our community has in calling this city home,” Bartlett said.
To view a drone video of the demolition, visit Facebook/City of Madison, Alabama City Hall.
Short-term rentals with Airbnb and VRBO will be a hot topic for Madison City Council’s meeting on June 22. In a public hearing, the council will review a proposed ordinance to allow short-term rentals with specific regulations and operating guidelines. Proposed measures include a citywide cap of 190 permits, zoning restrictions and required annual inspections.
For the city’s audit, accounting firm Warren Averett gave a clear standing. Firm representatives presented findings at the council meeting on May 26. The audit included financial transactions, accounts, internal controls and financial practices, along with specific aspects of the city’s agreement with BallCorps. For more information, visit madisonal.gov, and click the box for “City of Madison receives clean audit for FY25.”
WellStone, North Alabama’s largest mental healthcare provider, opened its Madison office location at 9238 Madison Blvd., Suite 900. Patients who are 19 years old minimum can receive treatment. Options are individual consultation, group meetings, and intensive outpatient therapy or IOP. Patients can receive mental health and substance use treatment. (Wellstone.com) City officials attended the Memorial Day Ceremony, an annual tradition for Madison American Legion, Post 229. The ceremony honors the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our nation, Bartlett said.
Bartlett’s “This Week by the Numbers” showed city employees’ work:
• Madison Police Department — 844 calls for service; 32 arrests; 36 citations; and 56 warnings.
• Madison Fire Department — 148 total incidents for 21.1 average/day; 1 fire call; 7 public service; and 104 medical calls.
• Municipal Court — 90 opened cases; 153 closed cases; 30 warrants issued; 23 warrants served; and $31,471.50 collected.
From June 2-7, the Rocket City Trash Pandas will have a six-day home stretch against the Columbus Clingstones. Another date to remember is June 10 for the “Armed Forces Celebration – Community Softball Game” from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Redstone Arsenal employees and local elected leaders will battle for bragging rights. This free softball game is affiliated with Armed Forces Week. (hsvchamber. org/2026-armed-forces-celebration) Madison City Council’s next meeting will be June 8 at 6 p.m. in Council Chambers at City Hall.
