Madison leaders back downsized Willy Street relief fund

Businesses impacted by the Willy Street encampment last month protesting the police killing of Corey Ruiz could soon be eligible for a small cash infusion from the city. Madison finance leaders backed the proposal Monday evening, though with an amendment that would set aside just a third of the original ask. Meanwhile, a proposal to transfer an additional 28,000 dollars to the independent police monitor’s budget was unanimously rejected. Image courtesy: Brian Standing / WORT News. The scene at Willy and Baldwin streets, shortly before the city tore down the Corey Ruiz memorial encampment on August 4, 2026.