Madison alder reports takeaways from 20th anniversary Obihiro sister‑city visit

Alder Madison told the Madison Common Council Executive Committee on Aug. 5 that a small delegation from Madison visited Obihiro, Japan, from July 2–8 to mark the 20th anniversary of the sister‑city relationship and to exchange ideas on local governance, sustainability and community development.

The presentation said attendees included Mayor Rhodes Conway and the mayor’s partner, Alder Figueroa Cole, Lila de Costa (the mayor’s office staffer who serves as sister‑city coordinator) and Joe, described as the Madison‑Obihiro board president. The presenter said the trip was not funded by the city and that "all the attendees paid for themselves".

The delegation toured Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, visited museums and farms, and met with Obihiro city officials, the presenter said. Takeaways the delegation described to the committee included Obihiro’s strong municipal support for farmers, complex transit options — buses, taxis and local and high‑speed trains — and winter infrastructure such as low, flat traffic lights designed to shed snow. The presenter also noted cultural activities including a tea ceremony and a visit to an Obihiro high school with existing student exchange ties to Madison.

Alder Figueroa Cole told the committee she was struck by the local support systems for farmers and by the city’s emphasis on environmental stewardship. The presenter said a practical idea she would explore for her district was adding hydration vending machines in late‑night commercial areas.

The presenter said Obihiro will send a delegation to Madison later this fall to mark the 20th anniversary; committee members were invited to participate. The presentation included photographs from the trip and an offer to share additional images with alder offices.

The committee did not take action; the report was delivered as an informational presentation.