Madison, WI Header
File #: 91544    Version: 1 Name: Winter Salt Week 2026
Type: Resolution Status: Honoring Resolution
File created: 1/14/2026 In control: COMMON COUNCIL
On agenda: 1/27/2026 Final action:
Enactment date: Enactment #:
Title: Proclaiming January 26th to 30th, 2026, as Winter Salt Week.
Sponsors: Regina M. Vidaver, Satya V. Rhodes-Conway, John W. Duncan, Tag Evers, Derek Field, Yannette Figueroa Cole, Carmella Glenn, MGR Govindarajan, John P. Guequierre, Barbara Harrington-McKinney, Isadore Knox Jr., Badri Lankella, Sabrina V. Madison, Dina Nina Martinez-Rutherford, Julia Matthews, Davy Mayer, Sean O'Brien, Will Ochowicz, Joann Pritchett, Bill Tishler, Michael E. Verveer

Fiscal Note

No City appropriation required.

Title

Proclaiming January 26th to 30th, 2026, as Winter Salt Week.

Body

WHEREAS, all the salt applied to City of Madison roadways, parking lots, and sidewalks eventually end up in our freshwater, polluting lakes, streams, and groundwater; and,

 

WHEREAS, chloride contamination is increasing statewide, with measurable impacts on our drinking water; and,

 

WHEREAS, even a small amount-just one teaspoon-can pollute five gallons of water to a level that is toxic for aquatic life, and removing salt from water is costly and challenging; and,

 

WHEREAS, winter maintenance best practices not only protect our freshwater resources, but also minimize damage to infrastructure and property and reduce harm to aquatic plants and animals while maintaining public safety; and,

 

WHEREAS, raising awareness among residents, businesses, and local governments about the responsible use of deicing salt is essential to balancing public safety with environmental stewardship; and,

 

WHEREAS, Winter Salt Week serves as an opportunity to educate our communities on smart salting practices, including effective application methods and environmental considerations; and,

 

WHEREAS, the residents of Madison can make meaningful contributions to salt pollution reduction by learning about smart salting practices, engaging in safe winter driving, and hiring trained service providers; and,

 

WHEREAS, the City of Madison is committed to promoting winter maintenance strategies that ensure public safety while protecting the health of our freshwater resources for present and future generations;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Madison Common Council proclaims January 26th to 30th, 2026, as Winter Salt Week.

 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Madison Common Council urges all residents, businesses, and City of Madison departments and divisions to take part in activities and initiatives that promote the responsible use of deicing salt and encourage the adoption of winter maintenance strategies that maintain safety while reducing environmental harm.