An introduction to an agreement that would expand the Madison-based Community Alternative Response Emergency Services (CARES) program to Sun Prairie was unanimously approved by the Madison Common Council, WMTV15 reports. The program integrates mental health resources into emergency response, dispatching a crisis worker along with paramedics to respond to emergencies.
If approved, the 12-month pilot program would be funded by Sun Prairie. Sun Prairie will pay Madison $531 per response, according to the Emergency Crisis Services Agreement between the two cities.
Concern persists over Madison’s operations as the Nov. 5 referendum approaches. If it fails, city departments will face 5% budget cuts, which could affect service partnerships with neighboring communities. Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway will announce Madison’s 2025 Operating Budget on Oct. 8.
The Common Council is scheduled to make a final decision on the Madison–Sun Prairie CARES agreement on Nov. 10.
