By Ruth Rohlich
City of Madison

Oscar Mayer is an example of a small, local, Madison business that became an international brand. This is what we want for our businesses. The difficulty comes when these businesses change so much they no longer need the workforce they once had.

Oscar Mayer employed approximately 4,000 people in its busiest years. In the last few decades that number shrank; at its closing, Oscar Mayer employed about 600 people. Many people believe these jobs went to another state. In reality, the majority of these jobs no longer exist. Changes in manufacturing and changes in ownership lessened the workforce needs of the business.

Madison is a city that is constantly changing. We need to look to the future and make decisions for the century ahead. With close to 72 acres of land on the property, there are many things to consider as the city looks to reuse this site. The city considers this land to be a key redevelopment site and is looking to continue the location’s tradition of having well paying, family supporting jobs.

The Strategic Assessment Committee for the Oscar Mayer Property has been formed to consider these issues and others regarding the site. The committee consists of 12 community members with a variety of experience in economic development.

To learn more about the Strategic Assessment Committee for the Oscar Mayer Property, visit our website, cityofmadison.com/dpced/planning/oscar-mayer/2614/.

The city is always looking for citizens to participate in planning for our future. Consider sharing your voice in this discussion by joining a city committee. Visit cityofmadison.com/CityHall/legislativeinformation/apply.cfm.