MADISON, Wis. -- The Madison Common Council voted Tuesday night to pay restitution to a woman who was raped in 1997.

The woman -- known only as "Patty" -- temporarily recanted her story after Madison police in 1997 said they didn't believe her, and investigators pressured her through what she said were unethical methods.

A few weeks ago, Madison Police Chief Noble Wray received a standing ovation from the Common Council after apologizing to Patty on behalf of the Madison Police Department.

Tuesday's resolution now gives the city a chance to apologize to Patty.

The resolution gives $35,000 to Patty for legal fees and lost wages. The money comes from the 2006 operating budget.

The resolution also seeks the creation of a new police policy that will handle sensitive crimes.

On Tuesday night, a number of advocates for sexual assault victims addressed the council, thanking them and urging them to vote yes.

The council passed the resolution 15-2 but not without some debate over the monetary compensation.

"The $35,000 is a problem to me because I heard two people speak of three rape victims that I think could come back and say, 'You owe me money as well,'" said Alder Judy Compton.

But Alder Austin King said the money makes the apology a meaningful gesture.

"The resolution is about a sincere and meaningful apology that goes beyond just saying we're sorry and proving it. And so part of that is making Patty financially whole from the debt she has from lost wages and legal fees, but it is also to show that we are serious it will never happen again," King said.

With the passing of the resolution, Wray will also have the chance to make recommendations on police policies. The Madison police chief will have 90 days to make his recommendations to the Common Council.

The council on Tuesday also passed an emergency contraception resolution, which will require pharmacists to give notification to customers if they are out of emergency contraception or don't carry it.