Local News for Madison | The Locally TimesLatest local accountability journalism for the Madison metro. Free, AI-powered, no ads.Local News for MadisonUW-Madison campus cooling failure forces multi-week building closuresThe failure of a central cooling system on July 15, 2024, resulted in the immediate closure of 14 campus buildings and an estimated $4.5 million in mitigation costs.Environment & Land Use Governor Evers appointed three county officials between July 7 and July 9The Governor filled District Attorney vacancies in Oconto and Richland counties and a Sheriff vacancy in Washburn County.Politics & Government Madison Metro Transit Proposes Updated Service Standards for Public TransportationThe proposed policy changes aim to optimize transit efficiency for the 100% of riders served by the Madison Metro network by establishing clear performance metrics for 2025.Politics & Government Madison College Integrates External Workforce Analytics for Student Career PlanningMadison College has allocated resources to integrate 3 distinct third-party workforce data platforms to assist its 30,000 students in navigating regional labor market trends.Education Federal Oversight Regarding Unauthorized Wildlife RehabilitationUnauthorized wildlife rehabilitation efforts can result in federal fines reaching $25,000 per violation under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.Environment & Land Use Madison Clerk Issues Warning Regarding Liquor License Phishing ScamsCity officials alert business owners to fraudulent payment requests involving cryptocurrency and wire transfers.Business & Economy Findorff closes North Broom Street slip lane for two-week construction projectThe left turn slip lane from North Broom Street to West Gorham Street will close July 7 through July 19 for restoration work.Business & Economy Henry Vilas Zoo Evacuated Following Swatting IncidentMadison police investigate a phoned-in threat that forced the closure of the facility on July 2, 2026.Public Safety Madison Public Library requires manual account resets following system transitionPatrons must use birth dates as temporary passwords to access the new LINKcat system launched on April 17.Community & Culture Madison Fire Department trains interns; Fitchburg cuts engine staffingEducation