ABOUT SMART GROWTH
We are citizens from across Madison and Dane County, united by a shared belief in government transparency and accountability — the foundation of smart growth and good government. We are a nonpartisan, all-volunteer movement that is urban and rural, spiritual and secular, that embraces the ideals of the U.S. Constitution and equal protection for all.
Our goal is to hold elected officials accountable to the people, not to special interest groups or self-serving career politicians with hidden agendas.
Our vision is to make Madison and Dane County an affordable, environmentally responsible, and economically vibrant community — for today’s residents and for generations to come.
Our values are aligned with the urgent need to restore Government Integrity and a Code of Ethics, which requires: Our elected officials and government agencies to openly and honestly facilitate the exchange of ideas by all people and citizen engagement that will ensure that people have the opportunity for meaningful, timely, and informed participation in public and private development plans and programs that affect their homes, neighborhoods, the quality of life and character of their communities.
OUR MISSION IS SIMPLE:
To promote smart, environmentally sustainable growth that strengthens Madison’s neighborhoods and Dane County communities.
To protect and improve our valued lakes, public parks, natural urban and rural greenways, county, state and federal parklands and reserves.
To restore government integrity, financial transparency, trust in local government transparency and hold our elected officials accountable to the people.
To prioritize citizen participation in and public transparency in local decision-making, ahead of special interests and career politicians with hidden political agendas.
We bring together all residents, neighborhood groups, small businesses, law enforcement officials and community leaders to help shape public policy that
puts public safety first.
OUR FOCUS
Smart urban and rural land use, environmental stewardship, essential infrastructure, and sustainable development.
Public–private partnerships that expand economic opportunities and job growth in Madison and Dane County.
Restore and create innovative home ownership for first-time home buyers and affordable taxations, so families can stay in their homes.
Restore the health and quality of our lakes, rivers, and waterways and reduce our carbon footprint with cost-effective climate change solutions.
Create mixed-use residential, owner-occupied housing that fosters both economic vitality, neighborhood well-being and age-friendly communities.