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Selectmen back exploring an independent 'Madison Prize' to honor notable residents
Summary
Board members supported further exploration of an independent community-led prize—distinct from town awards—to honor prominent residents who 'pay it forward,' and agreed the initiative should be citizen-led rather than a town program.
Board members discussed formalizing town recognition for community service and a broader proposal—an independent "Madison Prize"—to honor residents whose work has national or international impact.
The board agreed to formalize the existing Don Ranken community service award with a consistent selection process and criteria. Separately, a board member outlined an early concept for a biennial, community-run ‘‘Madison Prize’’ that would honor a resident of notable achievement and set up an endowed fund to support related community grants. The proposal would be organized independently of town government though the board expressed willingness to support or partner in nonfinancial ways.
Supporters said a prize could raise the town’s profile and build a legacy fund for community grants; critics and members cautioned the initiative should be volunteer-led, independent of municipal authority, and governed by a clear nominating and selection process.
No binding decisions were made; the board asked organizers to develop the concept further outside the town government framework and to return with a more detailed plan if they choose to proceed.
