Business View Civil Municipal - Sept 2023

80 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 4, ISSUE 9 Yet, even as this initiative took shape, there was an immediate realization of its potential impact. Mahaney reminisced about his discussion with Mike Davis, the former city administrator, saying, “I think the demand is going to outstrip the available funds.” True to form, the collaboration deepened, culminating in a $600,000 fund to support businesses. The results speak for themselves. “We disbursed $595,000 of the $600,000,” Mahaney pointed out with pride, “and to date, we have not had any losses.” The program’s success, however, was not merely a result of its financial structure. The chamber, as Mahaney enthusiastically indicated, played a pivotal role. “They have built out the infrastructure into the business community,” he praised, emphasizing the symbiotic relationship between the city, the chamber, and MADC. Considering the future, Middleton’s vision is as green as its parks. Gadow explains, “We’re committing to sustainability. Given our proximity to the University of Wisconsin, Madison, and its burgeoning sustainable energy and renewable tech companies, there’s a ripe opportunity.” He anticipates that as these enterprises grow, they might look at Middleton as an ideal location, especially given its robust biotechnology clusters. For Mayor Kuhn, the seamless integration of resources, funding, and community outreach, coupled with the unwavering support of the council, was the real victory. “It was a machine. It was running and it went perfectly,” she beamed, expressing gratitude for the shared vision and collaboration at the heart of Middleton’s success.