MADISON – A rally opposing changing Madison’s government structure to a city manager form is being planned for Saturday, April 29, in the heart of Madson. It will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. at Home Place Park Amphitheater, 100 Shorter Street in downtown Madison. According to one of the rally’s organizers, former mayoral candidate Hanu Karlapalem, the event is being led by a non-partisan, non-PAC group of concerned citizens. He says everyone is invited to attend.

Currently, the city of Madison operates with a mayor-council form of government, with 7 voting district representatives and an elected mayor running the city. If the change is approved by voters in a May 9 special election, it will require redistricting Madison into 6 districts, with a mayor elected at large. The mayor would then mostly represent the city in public events and in meetings with neighboring cities, plus serve as the city council president. The change would place a council-appointed city manager in charge of the city’s daily operations and departments.

“The proposed change in the form of city government will worsen the already existing lack of transparency and lack of accountability,” Karlapalem said. “People of Madison will lose their rights and representation as a result of the council-manager form of government and the reduction in the number of council districts.”

At Saturday’s rally, there will be food, entertainment, music, and speakers. A local band, BREZ, will perform current hits, classics, pop, country, rock, and more, starting at 4 p.m. People can bring their own handmade signs and lawn chairs.

“Our goal is to help inform voters on the pros and cons and encourage them to vote no on the May 9 special election ballot,” Karlapalem said.

Other organizers include Marla Pope, Margi Daly, Kathy Deganis and Jocelyn Broer.