Talk Around Town August 2024 : simplebooklet.com

adison County officials remember former long-time Auditor Rick Faccin, who died in July.“Rick Faccin was a true gentleman and friend,” Madison County State’sAttorney Tom Haine said. “His sudden passing comes as a shock to ourwhole family, who has known him for decades, and marks the end of anera in our community. Rick’s long career in public service was anoutgrowth of his personality and his strong Catholic faith, which wasgenerous, giving, thoughtful, and principled.”The 70-year-old dedicated public servant, who served 26 years withMadison County, died on July 7. Before becoming auditor, Faccin served onthe County Board from December 1994 until November 2000. He retiredNovember 2020 after serving five terms as auditor.Haine said his father, former State’s Attorney William Haine, worked withFaccin for decades and had a deep and abiding respect for Rickpersonally and politically.“Both he and my dad viewed politics not as a harsh game of personaldestruction but as a way of serving a community and building a commonlife together in responsible ways,” Haine said. “He will be sorely missed.”A life-long resident of Alton, Faccin graduated from of Alton High Schooland also held degrees from Lewis and Clark Community College, SouthernIllinois University - Edwardsville (Bachelor of Social Work) and St. LouisUniversity (Master of Social Work.)Faccin always said it was an honor and a privilege serving the citizens ofthis county.In each fiscal year since being elected, Faccin received a “Certificate ofAchievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting,” a national award. Theaward is bestowed on government officials who achieve the higheststandards in government and financial reporting.In 2009 and 2014, the Illinois Association of County Auditors elected himpresident. In 2010, the group named him “Auditor of the Year.”Madison County Treasurer Chris Slusser said Faccin was the type of manwho would go to battle in a meeting but leave it all aside afterward.“We always knew that politics had its place, but it never got in the way ofour friendship,” Slusser said.Madison County Coroner Stephen Nonn said he and Faccin first ran foroffice together in 2000, and every four years until he retired.“He was a tireless candidate during our election cycles and a greatrunning mate,” Nonn said. “He made the whole process a lot of fun. Hewas funny, with a wicked sense of humor.”Nonn also remembered him as a “compassionate man and dedicatedpublic servant.”“He embodied the qualities of what a public servant should be — honest,fair, intelligent, diplomatic and motivated to serve the interests andneeds and well-being of the public,” he said.Nonn said Faccin cared about people as he practiced his Catholic faithand was generous with his time in helping others.Faccin’s involvement in organizations included being a member or servingon various boards and committees: Knights of Columbus (4th degreemember); Board of Directors St. Louis University Athletics; President’sCircle St. Louis University; Board of Directors Age Smart; Board ofDirectors Catholic Charities; SIU-E Alumni Association (lifetime member);President Illinois Association of Director of Catholic Charities; Member ofSt. Mary’s School Board; Chairman of the 9-1-1 Emergency TelephoneSystem Board; Chairman of United Way Social Services Division; Memberof Senior Services Plus Board; Member of Committee to Support LacledeSteelworkers; Member of 1999 Friend of Labor Local 21; member ofIllinois County Auditors Association.M

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“He is going to be missed,” Nonn said.Prior to his political career, Faccin served as the director of CatholicCharities in Alton and was responsible for the placement, safety andwelfare of over 1,000 children who were abused or neglected.In recognition of Rick’s work with the agency spanning over 22 years,Rick received the distinguished service award from Catholic Charities in2001. He also received the prestigious Father M. J. QuilliganHumanitarian Award in 2009, along with numerous other awards for hisservice to the agency.Haine said Faccin’s faith was one of his most important qualities. He saidFaccin was ever-present, because he loved people, he loved his town, heloved his faith and he loved local politics.Faccin is not only remembered for his politics and dedication in publicservice, but for his love and passion of the St. Louis Cardinals baseballand St. Louis University basketball.Slusser said that many of his conversations with Faccin revolved aroundtheir mutual love of sports and their faith.Madison County Auditor David Michael, who succeeded Faccin in officesaid his staff mourned at his passing.“Rick was beloved by the staff and all those he worked with in our localcommunity and around the state,” Michael said. Michael said Faccin would regularly call to see how he was doing, “andwe developed a great relationship over the years that was largely basedon our shared love of Madison County and our Catholic faith.”“I am going to miss those calls,” he said.Faccin once said, “Hopefully I’ve served the citizens well. I think I’veserved with pride and distinction.”Everyone thinks he did too.

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2019 — $1,543,672 — 118,8332020 — $1,509,261 — 116,1552021 — $1,575,066 — 121,1242022 — $1,452,256 — 111,7732023 — $1,480,973 — 113,9212024 — $ 760,942 — 48,435Total — $8,321,170 — 630,241911 call centers receive $8.3 millinion911 call centers receive $8.3 millinionin reimbursements the past five yearsin reimbursements the past five years uring the past five years Madison County’s Emergency Telephone System Board paid more than $8.3 million in reimbursement costs to its local 911 call centers.In May 2019, the ETSB voted to start paying reimbursement costs bi-annually to the county’s 911 call centers, also known as Public SafetyAnswering Points (PSAPs.) The 911 Administration conducted aconsolidation study and determined that the reimbursement rate wouldbe $13 per call.Since the inception of Madison County’s 911 system, the localmunicipalities’ police departments along with the Madison CountySheriff’s Office managed individual PSAPs. These agencies covered personnel costs, while ETSB covered the costs ofequipment and training. 911 Administrator Arron Weber said local departments covered themajority of the expenses prior to the reimbursements. He said once theState of Illinois mandated consolidation of the PSAPs, the ETSB wantedto help offset some of the call centers’ costs.“(The reimbursement) was the intent by the ETSB to aid the PSAPs inconsolidation by providing the dollars for additional manpower,equipment and training that was required,” Weber said. “We continuethe process of reimbursement as a way of supportingtelecommunicators, and as technology advances in 911.”With consolidation, some departments were concerned about the cost oftaking on more responsibilities as the number of PSAPs was expected tobe reduced to eight from 15. ETSB Chair Joe Petrokovich said the reimbursement isn’t a full DTotal reimbursements paid and theTotal reimbursements paid and thenumber of calls PSAPs receivednumber of calls PSAPs receivedduring the past five years are:during the past five years are:YearReimbursement Amount# of 911 calls

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Back to SchoolBack to SchoolSchedule of when students returnI t’s that time of year again — Back to School!School District are gearing up for to resume thismonth. Communities across the county are holdingbackpack and school supply events, which aims toget students enthusiastic and ready for their returnto class.School Districts throughout Madison County, as wellas the majority of parochial and catholic schooldistricts will start in mid-to-late August. Here is the list of starting dates for students toreturn to the 14 public schools and three non-publichigh schools across the county.MadisonRoxanaTriadVenice8/198/148/148/13CEO Alternative School8/13Father McGiveny Catholic HSMetro-East Lutheran HSMarquette Catholic HS8/148/158/14East Alton-Wood RiverEdwardsvilleWood River-HartfordGranite CityHighland8/148/14Alton BethaltoCollinsvilleEast Alton8/158/148/148/148/148/158/13reimbursement, but rather what ETSB calculated would cover for 911calls.“The board determined the reimbursement rate after conducting astudy on the average time a telecommunicator spent answering a 911call,” Petrokovich said. “The reimbursement is paid from the monies itreceives from its 911 emergency telephone surcharge, which is around$3.6 million annually.” In 2019, the PSAPs were Alton, Bethalto, Collinsville, East Alton,Edwardsville, Glen Carbon/Maryville, Granite City, Highland, Madison,,Pontoon Beach, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, Troy, Venice,Wood River and the Sheriff’s Office. After consolidation, the remainingPSAPs are Alton, Collinsville, Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, PontoonBeach, Wood River and the Sheriff’s Office. The Pontoon Beach PSAPis currently open, however will be consolidated to Glen Carbon soon.In July, the ETSB and the County Board approved the first payment forreimbursements at $760,942 for the 48,435 calls made to 911 from Dec. 23, 2023 to May 24.Weber said the reimbursement costs are made possible by the monthly911 surcharge on a wireless or landline telephone bill.“No increase in taxes or any tax collected by Madison County is used inthe fund,” he said. “The money is collected by the state and dispersed tothe Madison County Special ETSB Fund, which is managed by the countytreasurer.”He said due to the guidance from the Treasurer’s Office and theassistance from the Auditor’s Office through the years, the managementof the 911 Administration and the fiscal responsibility of the ETSB, thecounty can provide this funding to its public safety partners.Madison County 911 is also undergoing a radio communication project,which will allow for interoperability between emergency responders,which is expected to cost around $8-9 million.

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adison County State's Attorney Tom Haine recently met with representatives from the Metro-East chapter of Bikers Against Child Abuse (BACA) to learn more about the services the organization provides to children who suffered abuse. “The work that BACA does is truly inspiring,” Haine said.BACA is a non-profit organization composed of bikers who provide emotional and physical support to children who have been abused. Theirmission is to empower children to not feel afraid of the world in which they live. The organization works in conjunction with local and stateofficials to offer a layer of security and stability for children who are often facing the most difficult times of their lives. Haine said the meeting underscores the commitment of the State's Attorney's office to supporting community organizations dedicated toprotecting and advocating for vulnerable children. “They step in at a time when children are most vulnerable, offering them not only protection but also a sense of community and strength,” Hainesaid. “Our office is committed to prosecuting those who harm children and knowing that organizations like BACA are there to support theseyoung victims makes a tremendous difference.” Metro-East BACA members Smack, Wrench, Chance and Shinobi attended the meeting. Along with Haine, representatives from the State’sAttorney’s Office included Assistant State’s Attorney Ali Foley, who is head of the office’s Children’s Justice Division; Assistant State’s AttorneyRebecca Buettner, who is assigned to the Children’s Justice Division; Victim Services Coordinator Tiffany Brooks; and Fitz, Courthouse FacilityDog. During the meeting, the BACA representatives explained their various services, including courtaccompaniment and other support mechanisms that help children regain their confidence andsense of security. Haine noted the importance of these types of services in the broadercontext of the criminal justice system. “When children are willing to testify against their abusers, they need all the reassurance they can get,” Haine said. “BACA provides that in spades, ensuring that these children do not face their abusers alone.” Madison County State’s Attorney meets with bikersMadison County State’s Attorney meets with bikerswho protect victims of child abusewho protect victims of child abuseM

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Madison County Circuit Clerk’s Office gets100% rating for its passport services he U.S. Department of State recently recognized the Madison County Clerk’s Office for meeting its annual inspection requirements for managingpassport applications.“Our Passport Services division received a special certificateof achievement proclaiming a 100 percent rating with zeropenalties or deductions on the inspections, Circuit Clerk TomMcRae said.While U.S. passports are issued by the U.S. Department ofState, the Madison County Clerk’s Office is designated as anacceptance agent for U.S. Passport applications. “Our office must pass an annual audit by the U.S. Departmentof State, during which our processes, effectiveness, safety andreliability are evaluated,” McRae said.The Department of State’s Passport Services’ Office ofAcceptance Facility Oversight (AFO) inspects passportacceptance facilities in four areas: Passport ApplicationAcceptance Procedures, Information Security, Supplies andSignage, and Training. The AFO’s focus is on protecting theintegrity of the passport issuance process.Passports that their applications are being executed by highlytrained professionals,” McRae said.TDuring the inspection, the AFO has three goals. First, itdetermines management controls for noncompliance withwritten guidance provided by passport services. Second, itmitigates the risk of fraud and misfeasance/malfeasance.Finally, it identifies and reports systemic trends and assessesacceptance facilities’ compliance with Department of Stateregulations.McRae said the report shows the office increased the numberof passports processed by 65 percent from 2022 to 2023 withover 700 passports processed in Fiscal Year 2023.“This year we look to outpace that number,” he said. “Muchof the increase can be attributed to the convenience ofproviding photos within the office.”Deputy Clerks working in the Passport Services division arerequired to take a class and pass an annual exam forrecertification. McRae said the deputy clerks provide vital services toresidents.“I am proud that our office earned a 100 percent passingscore on its annual inspection,” he said. “Their hard work anddedication is appreciated.”

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continuedHe said the staff is alwaysprofessional and prepared tohelp customers through theprocess of applying for a newpassport or reviewingapplications for renewing anexisting passport, and takingpassport photos. “We are a one-stop location forpassport services,” he said.County residents are welcome tovisit the facilities at theMadison County Courthouse,155 Main St., Edwardsville,between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.Monday through Friday toapply for or renew an existingpassport.“Having passed inspection withan exceptionally high score of100 should assure customersneeding passports that theirapplications are being executedby highly trainedprofessionals,” McRae said.APPLICATION FORM — Completed U.S.Dept. of State “APPLICATION FORPASSPORT,” Form DSP-11, available atthe Circuit Clerk’s office or online athttp://travel.state.gov. PROOF OF CITIZENSHIP — Proof ofU.S. Citizenship, such as your previousU.S. passport. Or, if you were born in theU.S., you may submit a certified birthcertificate that includes your first andlast names, date and place of birth, anddate the birth record was filed. If youwere born outside the U. S., you maysubmit a Certificate of Naturalization,Certificate of Citizenship, Report of BirthAbroad, or similar evidence. If you are acitizen from the naturalization of yourparent(s), submit a Certificate(s) ofNaturalization of your parent(s), yourforeign birth certificate, and proof ofyour admission to the U.S. for permanentresidence. SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER — Although notrequired for issuance of a passport, the U.S.Internal Revenue Code, 26 USC 6039E, states thatany passport applicant failing to provide thisinformation is subject to a $500 penalty enforcedby the U.S. Internal Revenue Service. PHOTOGRAPH — The photo must be of youalone. It must be 2" x 2" in size, and the area fromthe bottom of your chin to the top of your hairmust be between 1" and 1 3/8". The photo must.be clear, front view, full face, in normal attire,without a hat or dark glasses. It must be on aplain white or off-white background and may beblack & white or color. A retouched photo inwhich your appearance is changed is notacceptable. PROOF OF IDENTITY —You may submityour previous valid U.S. passport,Certificate of Naturalization, driver'slicense (not a learner's permit ortemporary license), or governmentidentification card or pass. FEES Regular fees: $130 — Adult Book $30 — Adult Card $100 — Child Book $15 — Child Card(under 16 years old) Payment by check madepayable to the US Deptof State. Acceptance fee$35.00-Circuit Clerk,Cash/CheckEXPEDITED FEES$63.75 — Adult or Child *Cash Payment to Madison County CircuitClerk's Office forprocessing, plus a checkor money order payableto the "US Dept. ofState" in one of thefollowing amounts:$209.53 — Adult Book$90 — Adult Card$179.53 — Child Book $75 — Child Card Ready for school? Add vaccinations to your back-to-school to-do listReady for school? Add vaccinations to your back-to-school to-do list s summer winds down and back-to-school preparations are made, Madison County Public Health Department reminds parents to get their children's vaccinations ready for the new school year.“Back-to-school season is the perfect time to make sure your children are up todate on all recommended vaccines,” Public Health Administrator Doug King said.King said staying up to date on routine vaccinations helps people stay healthy andprevent deadly diseases like measles and whooping cough (pertussis).State law requires children to have specific immunizations in order to attendschool or be enrolled in a licensed childcare center. The state also requiresanyone attending college to be up-to-date on vaccinations.More information about state-required immunizations, or exemptions, can befound at the IDPH website.AIDPH requires that all incoming students born on or after Jan. 1, 1957who are enrolled for 6 or more credit hours present documentedproof of immunity (pdf) against the following diseases:Measles (Rubeola) – two (2) doses at least 28 days apartRubella (German Measles) – two (2) doses at least 28 daysapartMumps – two (2) doses at least 28 days apartTD (Tetanus and Diphtheria) – at least one (1) dose within past10 yearsMeningitis – Required for students under the age of 22 – Mustbe given on or after 16th birthday.To schedule you or your child’s vaccination visit Madison CountyHealth Department website.

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he Madison County Circuit Clerk’s Office is giving away old computers to non-profit and charitable organizations.“We have around 100 desktop computers that are no longer useful in our office,”Circuit Clerk Tom McRae said. “They still work, just not for the programs weaccess and use.” McRae said he felt that with school about to start he wanted to make sure that non-profits and charitable organizations, such as libraries, churches with tutoring programs, etc. have enough computers for children who may need access to one. The Circuit Clerk’s Office recently upgraded its computers so McRae presented his idea at the Judiciary Committee in July about donating the old computers to benefit others. “They liked the idea,” McRae said. “We know thereare children out there who don’t have internet access and these groups usuallyprovide help they need it.”County Board member and chair of the Judiciary Committee Mike Babcock saidthe idea was a good one.“This is a great opportunity,” Babcock said. “Not every non-profit has the fundingto purchase extra computers that the public can use.”“We know there arechildren out therewho don’t haveinternet access andthese groups usuallyprovide help theyneed it,” CircuitClerk Tom McRaesaidThe Circuit Clerk’s Office is offering computers tonon-profit and charitable organizations T

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McRae said the computers can also be used for otherorganizations, not just those who cater to school agedindividuals. He said the available computers have thecapabilities of running Microsoft Windows OperatingSystem10 and 11.Trena Camerer, a systems engineer with the CircuitClerks Office, said the lifespan to update Windows 10 willend in October 2025. She said the computers will still beable to access the internet and use some programs, butthere would be vulnerabilities since the software cannotbe updated.Camerer said there are currently around 25 computers,with more coming later this year, that run on Windows 11. “All the computers operating systems are wiped clean ofapplications and files for security and licensingpurposes,” she said. “The cost of a license for Windows 11Operating System is in the neighborhood of $200.”She said the majority of what is being given away is thecomputer alone, however there are a limited number ofmonitors and accessories that will also be available.McRae said at least one board member requested somecomputers for one of the smaller library districts.“This is how we see them being used,” McRae said.Camerer mentioned that the old computers may also begood for instructional purposes. She said they could betaken apart, rebuilt or used for their parts. “Sometimes simply being able to get your hands on acomputer to take apart is a good thing,” she said. “Anyonewho teaches computers could find this useful.”If interested in one of the Circuit Clerk’s computers,please email Camerer at tgcamerer@madisoncountyil.gov. One of the main reasons that people get rid of their oldcomputers is not because they don't work, but becausethe world has moved on. But your desktop PC's biggestweakness could be its greatest strength, if you just let itbe exactly what it is: a technological time capsule of atime gone by.Turn it into a game server — If you like to playcommunal games with your friends but don't want todeal with the rest of the riff raff, a personal game servermight be the perfect solution for you. A private serverprovides an online multiplayer space that you control.You could open it up to anyone who wants to join orpass out invitations to only a select few.Build your own personal home arcade — Your olddesktop PC may not be great at being a moderncomputer, but it's perfectly good at doing the things youwere doing when you first got it, like playing old videogames. Make your own media server — The age of physicalmedia is in decline due to digital downloads and an olddesktop PC tower can act as a digital library for theliving room.Turn it into a dedicated video phone — An olddesktop PC could be the perfect way to sequester yourvideo calls and free up real estate and processing poweron your primary computer.COMPUTERCOMPUTERCOMPUTER

Talk Around Town August 2024

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