Talk Around Town July 2025 : simplebooklet.com

3 Citizens can now address the CountyBoard at their regularly scheduled meetings(3rd Wednesday of each month at 5:00 pm inthe County Board room), and at specialmeetings. Fifteen minutes shall be set aside at thebeginning of each County Board meeting andeach speaker shall be allowed 3 minutes toaddress the board.How to Address the County Board or Committees Although not required, anyone wishing toaddress the Boardmay pre-register by filing acompleted “Request To Address The MadisonCounty Board and Committees" form, with theCounty Clerk’s Office no earlier than 48 hoursprior to the scheduled meeting. For more information on addressing the Boardof Committees visit the County Clerk’s website. Scan QR Codeto Register toSpeakINSIDEHISTORIC FLAG CEREMONY BRINGSREVOLUTIONARY SPIRIT TO MADISONCOUNTY COURTHOUSE5RECOGNITIONCHAIRMANS LETTEREND OF THE ROADEND OF AN ERACASTING LINES,CATCHING MEMORIESHOW TO GET A FISHING LICENSE IN ILLINOISHER NAME IS WENDYSHERIFF IDENTIFIES WOMAN INCOLD CASEMADISON COUNTY PROPERTY TAX BILLS ARE OUT6789121413WHERE TO CAST YOUR LINESLFISHING IN MADISON COUNTYMADISON COUNTY GIS WEB APP LETSUSERS TRAVEL BACK IN TIMEPREPARING FOR EXTREME HEATDRAGONS DEDICATE THE DIAMOND PROFESSIONAL PEOPLEMERIT COMMISSION MILESTONEMADISON COUNTY HIGHWAYDEPARTMENT USES 360° CAMERA TOIMPROVE GOOGLE MAPS ACCURACYMADISON COUNTY LAUNCHESSTARCOM21 RADIO DISTRIBUTION14151617182019

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Sincerely,Chris SlusserMadison County Chair From the County Chairman’s Desk: July Highlights There’s something remarkable about determination—and the Madison County Sheriff’s Office recently provedthat some cases are never truly forgotten. After 35 years, detectives successfully identified a woman who wasfound in a field in 1990. Thanks to their persistence and advancements in forensic science, she now has a nameand her story can finally be told. It’s a powerful reminder that our detectives will never rest until justice is served,no matter how long it takes (Read more on page 9.) It’s that time of year again — when tax bills are due. Treasurer Mike Babcock is reminding residents that thefirst installment is due on July 23. While no one looks forward to receiving a bill, these local dollars supportschools, public safety, road maintenance, and many other services that keep our communities thriving. Payingattention to where those tax dollars go helps us all stay connected to our local taxing districts and adds a layer ofaccountability (More information on page 8.) Madison County is also making strides to improve technology and strengthen public services.Whether it’sproviding new radios to enhance communication for first responders, expanding mapping tools through our GISDepartment, or using 360-degree imaging to support planning and development, these improvements all haveone goal—delivering better, faster, and smarter services to residents. This month, we’re highlighting the work ofthe 911 Emergency Telephone System Board, the Highway Department, and the GIS team, each playing a criticalrole in building a stronger, more connected county. July also brings the start of National Fishing Month on July 24, and Circuit Clerk Patrick McRae shares someof his favorite fishing spots throughout Madison County. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just looking fora peaceful day by the water, there are plenty of local gems where you can cast a line, enjoy the sunshine, andcreate lasting memories. This month, we also celebrated the service of several dedicated public servants. After nearly 40 years with theMadison County Highway Department, Greg Schuette retired, having spent his entire engineering careerimproving roads and infrastructure across the county. His leadership and hard work have left a lasting impact.We also said farewell to longtime members of the Mental Health Board and the Sheriff’s Merit Commission,whose years of commitment helped shape the future of our local programs and services. On a brighter note, we are proud to recognize two Madison County employees (page 20 ) who were recentlynamed to The Telegraph and River Bend Growth Association’s Professional’s Under 40 list of rising professionals.Their contributions and leadership are truly making a difference. This recognition holds a special place for me, asI was honored in 2011 by the same two organizations as a “Top 20 Under 40” Community Leader. It’s inspiring tosee the next generation of leaders stepping up and making their mark right here in Madison County. Thank you for staying connected. Whether we’re preserving the past, building for the future, or celebrating thepeople who make Madison County a great place to live —we’re always working to serve you better.5

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RECOGNITION adison County Chairman Chris Slusser and County Engineer Adam Walden presented Schuette with a crystalappreciation award on June 18, honoring his 39 years ofoutstanding service to the Madison County HighwayDepartment. “Greg has been the steady hand behind countlessprojects. His thoroughness, attention to detail, andgenuine compassion for the people of this county arewhat truly set him apart,” Walden said. “He didn’t justbuild roads—he built trust.” Schuette began his journey with Madison County inFebruary 1986, just two months after graduating fromSouthern Illinois University Edwardsville with a degree inengineering. Over the decades, he helped shape theroads and infrastructure that keep the county moving—culminating in his promotion to Assistant CountyEngineer in 2013. Schuette’s career took him from design work in theoffice to long days on construction sites, eventually rising through the ranks to assistant county highwayM engineer and even serving as interim county engineer.His work shaped at least 25 major projects acrossMadison County.“Greg always made sure we wrestled with the data untilwe found the right answer,” Walden said. “And evenwhen citizen complaints came in, Greg was patient, kind,and always took the time to listen.” Slusser said Schuette’s retirement ( he stepped into onJune 27) is well-earned but his absence will leave amark. “Greg is taking with him decades of knowledge and thehistory of how we’ve built this county’s infrastructure,”Slusser said. “His leadership and service have madeMadison County better.” In his remarks, Schuette thanked his colleagues,mentors, and family—especially his wife, Mart, and theirthree children—for their support over the years. “I’m proud to have spent my entire engineering careerserving Madison County,” Schuette said. “Thank you forallowing me to be part of something that trulymattered.”End of the RoadEnd of the RoadASSISTANT COUNTY ENGINEER WRAPS UP 39-YEAR JOURNEYASSISTANT COUNTY ENGINEER WRAPS UP 39-YEAR JOURNEY

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T he Madison County Mental Health Board bid farewell to two of its longest-serving members during its June 26 meeting. Board President Sarah Calvin and Board Secretary Herb Clay officially retired their appointments after years of dedicated leadership and service. Calvin joined the board in 2019 and has served as president since 2023, bringing steady leadership and a passion forexpanding mental health resources throughout the county. Clay, who first joined the board in 2016, previously served as boardpresident and has been instrumental in strengthening community partnerships and advocating for sustainable funding. Madison County Mental Health Board Executive Director Deborah Humphrey presented Calvin and Clay with service awards inrecognition of their contributions. “We are grateful for Sarah and Herb’s leadership and their unwavering commitment to improving mental health services inMadison County,” Humphrey said. “Their work has made a lasting difference in the lives of so many.” Calvin and Clay’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter for the board, which will continue to build upon theirefforts to serve the mental health needs of the community.End of an EraEnd of an EraMENTAL HEALTH BOARD HONORS RETIRINGMENTAL HEALTH BOARD HONORS RETIRINGLEADERS FOR YEARS OF SERVICELEADERS FOR YEARS OF SERVICEMerit Commission MilestoneMerit Commission MilestoneA FAREWELL AND A FRESH STARTA FAREWELL AND A FRESH START heriff Jeff Connor recently presented Jon Walker with a plaque recognizing his retirement and 34 years of dedicated service on the Madison County Sheriff’sMerit Commission. Walker’s decades of commitment helped guidethe hiring and promotion of sheriff’s deputies, contributing to thegrowth and integrity of the department. Walker’s seat on the commission has been filled by SteveKochan, who now joins the board in its work to uphold fair andimpartial hiring practices within the Sheriff’s Office. “We are grateful for Jon’s many years of service andleadership,” Connor said. “His contributions have made a lastingimpact on this department and the community we serve.”S7

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Madison County property tax bills are outF i r s t p a y m e n t d u e J u l y 2 3 adison County's tax bills are out. Madison County Treasurer Mike Babcock wants propertyowners to know tax bills were mailed on June 16, and the firstinstallment due date is July 23. The remaining due dates areSept. 23, Oct. 8, and Dec. 8. Babcock said although the Treasurer’s Office serves as thecounty’s tax collector, it’s important to remember that theoffice doesn’t determine the amount that is billed. “Property tax bills are determined by four factors — theassessment, the equalization factor or ‘multiplier,’ the tax rate,and any exemptions,” Babcock said. Each year, taxpayers receive a bill that outlines where theirtax dollars are distributed, payment options and important duedates. Babcock said his office mailed tax bills on more than132,000 parcels. Over the past four years, the real estate market hasexperienced rising property values, which can increaseassessed values and, in turn, the amount taxing districts canlevy. “Not all taxing districts choose to increase their levy,”Babcock said. “Madison County government has not raised itstax levy in the past nine years. However, when a taxing districtdoes raise its levy, it can result in a property tax increase.” The tax bill is designed to provide a detailed breakdown ofwhere each taxpayer’s money goes. Babcock encourages thosewith questions to contact the Treasurer’s Office. The office is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mondaythrough Friday at the Madison County Administration Building,located at 157 N. Main St., Suite 125 in Edwardsville. “No appointment is needed,” Babcock said. “We tend to getbusy near the due dates, so we recommend making paymentsearly to avoid the rush.” Babcock said the county continues to offer paperless billingfor added convenience as well. “Registering for paperless billing cuts postage and printingcosts while giving taxpayers quick and secure access to theirbills,” he said. M

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Real Estate InstallmentReal Estate Installment— July 23, 2025— Sept. 23, 2025— Oct. 8, 2025— Dec. 8, 20251st1st 2nd2nd 3rd3rd 4th4thMobile HomeMobile Home Aug. 31, 2025Aug. 31, 2025 Taxpayers can make payments: By mail (must be postmarked by the due date.)Through their financial institution’s online bill payservice.Using the QR code on their tax bill.Online at www.madcotreasurer.org.By phone at 618-602-2120.In person at the Treasurer’s Office.At participating collector banks or credit unions. Taxcoupons required. See the list below for participatingbanks: Immediate payments can also be made using electroniccheck or credit card online, and taxpayers can set upinstallment payments through the same methods. Thoseenrolled in automatic deductions will receive an emailreminder before each due date. Babcock emphasized that tax bills are not forwardedwhen residents change their address with the U.S. PostalService. “It’s critical that taxpayers complete the change ofaddress form available through the Chief County Assessor’sOffice,” he said. “By law, a taxpayer is responsible forpayment whether or not they receive a bill, but our goal is tomake sure you receive it.” For more information, visit www.madcotreasurer.org orcontact the Treasurer’s Office at 618-692-6260.Altonized Federal Credit Union (Members Only)Associated BankBank of HillsboroBank of Madison CountyBradford National Bank (Highland & Marine)Busey Bank (Non-customers must pay by Checks, Official Check or MoneyOrders Only)Carrollton Bank (Non-customers must pay by Checks, Official Check, OrMoney Orders only)Collinsville Building & LoanCNB Bank & Trust (Non-Customers must pay by Checks, Official Check, OrMoney Orders Only)Dieterich BankFirst Collinsville BankFirst Mid Bank & TrustFirst National Bank of WaterlooRevity Credit Union (Members Only)Community (Formerly Guardian Savings Bank)Heartland BankLiberty BankMidwest Members Credit UnionRoay Bank of Missouri – Granite City (Check or Money Orders only forCustomers & Non-Customers)State Bank of St. JacobState Employees Credit Union (Members Only)Collector Banksor Credit UnionsMADISONCOUNTYTREASURER'SOFFICEV I S I T T H EPAYONLINEDue Dates9

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HER NAME IS WENDYHER NAME IS WENDYAfter 35 Years, Madison County Sheriff’s OfficeIdentifies Woman in Cold Case, Seeks Killer or 35 years, she was known only as Jane Doe — a nameless woman with no story, no identity, no voice. But today, the Madison County Sheriff’s Office is giving her name back to the world: Wendy. Her name was Winona Nadine Michel, bornAugust 23, 1959. But to those who loved her, she wassimply Wendy. She was a daughter, a sister, a mother.She had a life, a past, and a family who never stoppedwondering what happened to her. Wendy was just 30 years old when her life wastaken in the summer of 1990. Her body was discoveredin a rural area near Triad Road and Troy O’Fallon Roadin Troy, Illinois—left there for nearly a week before shewas found. It was processed as a homicide, but despitehundreds of man-hours, countless interviews, andevery lead pursued, her case went unsolved, and hername was lost to time. Until now. Through the tireless work of Madison Countydetectives, advancements in forensic science, and thecompassion of a family still searching for answers,Wendy’s identity has been restored. And today, SheriffJeff Connor and his team are asking for the public’shelp in finding the person who took her life. A Life Pieced Back Together Wendy’s story didn’t start here. She was born in LosAngeles, California, on August 23, 1959. As a toddler,her parents moved her and her four siblings toTennessee, where she grew up. Around her 16th birthday, Wendy moved to VeroBeach, Florida, where she stayed until the early 1980swhen she relocated to Northern California, living inAnderson and Shasta. She remained on the West Coastfor several years before she and her two childrentraveled by bus to Nashville, Tennessee, in April 1990. She was last seen by her family in the Washington,D.C. area around May of that same year. They brieflymet her at a local mall. Wendy was with a mandescribed only as a truck driver—a man who remainsunidentified to this day. F

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Just weeks later, in July 1990, her body was foundin Madison County. Investigators at the time believedshe had been deceased for three to seven days beforediscovery. “This is a woman who had a story, who had a family,who had children,” Sheriff Jeff Connor said. “We wantpeople to remember her not as Jane Doe, but asWendy.” A Breakthrough After Decades Over the years, the case passed through the hands ofmultiple investigators, each reviewing the evidencewith the hope that someday, science would catch up tothe questions left behind. In late 2024, detectives reexamined the case withthe Illinois State Police Crime Lab and forensicspecialists at Othram, a Texas-based laboratory thatspecializes in forensic genealogy. They analyzed DNAextracted from evidence carefully preserved by theMadison County Coroner’s Office—evidence that hadbeen safeguarded for over three decades. Through the use of genetic genealogy and tirelessdetective work by Jacob Svoboda and others, thewoman was positively identified as Winona NadineMichel. The Madison County Coroner’s Office workedwith the State of Illinois to officially issue her deathcertificate. “Thanks to these advancements in science, and therelentless determination of our investigators, we wereable to give Wendy her name back,” Connor said. Wendy would have been 65 years old today. She leftbehind two children, one of whom is still alive, as wellas other family members who continue to grieve thetime lost. A Plea for Help Detectives believe Wendy’s story extends far beyondMadison County. She lived in California, Tennessee,Florida, and was last seen in Washington, D.C. Theybelieve someone, somewhere, may have informationthat could help solve her murder. “We need to reach the people who crossed paths withWendy,” Connor said. “Anyone who knew her, who mayhave seen her with the man she was last seen with, orwho has any information about her travels from Aprilto July 1990—we need them to come forward.” The man she was last seen with is described only asa truck driver. Witnesses were unable to provide adetailed description, but investigators remain hopefulthat someone may remember Wendy, remember seeingher with this man, or may have heard something thatcan help piece together her final days. “We want to bring some closure to Wendy’s family,”Connor said. “But we also need the public’s help to findher killer.” How to Submit a Tip Anyone with information is urged to contact theMadison County Sheriff’s Office through any of thefollowing:Madison County Sheriff’s Office: (618) 692-4433Anonymous Tip Line: (618) 296-3000CrimeStoppers: (866) 371-TIPS (8477)Tips can also be submitted through the MadisonCounty Sheriff’s Office App, available in the AppleStore and Google Play. Photographs of Wendy and herfamily, as well as additional information, are availableat: Madison County Sheriff’s Office - Can You Help? “We’ve got to get this story out, not just here inMadison County, but in the places where Wendy livedand traveled,” Connor said. “She had a life before shecame here, and someone out there knows something.” Cold Cases Never Forgotten Sheriff Connor emphasized that although this casewas the last unidentified person case in their files, thework continues on other unsolved homicides. “These cases are never truly cold to us,” Connorsaid. “We never stop looking. New science gives us newtools, and this case shows us that we can still findanswers—even after decades.” Wendy’s story, once silenced by time, now has thechance to be heard. “We’ve given her back her name,” Connor said.“Now we need your help to give her back her justice.” 11

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COVER STORYNATIONAL FISHING MONTH KICKS OFF IN JULYNATIONAL FISHING MONTH KICKS OFF IN JULYCASTINGCASTING LINES,LINES,CATCHINGCATCHING MEMORIESMEMORIES here’s something about the tug at the end of a fishing line that slows the world down. It’s not the size of the catch that matters—it’s the quietmoments by the water, where stories are shared, timestretches, and memories take root. One Madison County leader who knows this well is CircuitClerk Patrick McRae. Away from the courthouse, McRaefeels most at home on the banks of a lake or in a boat on theriver, casting lines and making memories with his family. McRae hopes to share his lifelong passion for fishing andencourage others to slow down and savor those simple, quietbonds that form by the water. TT “It’s not about how many fish you catch,” McRaesaid. “It’s about being present—with your family, withnature, with yourself.” From boat ramps along the Mississippi toneighborhood ponds tucked into local parks, McRae ison a mission to remind residents that July isn’t just forsummer—it’s for celebrating the simple joy of fishing. Fishing, for McRae, is a family tradition passed downthrough generations. Some of his earliest memories areof casting lines with his father, former Circuit ClerkTom McRae, along the Mississippi River and nearbylakes in Illinois and Missouri. Today, he’s creating thosesame memories with his own children.

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“There’s something about being on the water that quiets thenoise of everyday life,” McRae said. “It’s not just about catchingfish. It’s about slowing down, being present, and connecting—with nature and with each other.” McRae encourages residents to take advantage of the manyfishing spots throughout Madison County—from the mightyMississippi to creeks, lakes, and ponds just a short drive away.Whether it’s a quiet morning on the river or an afternoon at alocal park, McRae believes time spent fishing is always time wellspent. National Fishing Month, which kicks off July 24 and goesthrough the end of August, is a reminder to appreciate thesesimple pleasures and to introduce the next generation to the joyof the outdoors. “My boys are just starting to fish, and seeing theirexcitement brings me back to when I was their age,” McRaesaid. “It’s a chance to build those memories, just like my daddid with me.” McRae hopes his story encourages more families to grab apole, find a local waterway, and enjoy the beauty that’s right intheir own backyard. “You don’t have to go far,” he said. “We have great places tofish right here at home.” As National Fishing Month gets underway, McRae is invitingfamilies to unplug, step outside, and create lasting memories onthe riverbanks, lakes, and ponds that wind through MadisonCounty. “For me, fishing has always been about more than the catch,”McRae said. “It’s about slowing down and making time for whatreally matters.” Where to Cast Your LinesL Fishing in Madison County adison County is home to some of the region’s best fishing spots, offering something for everyone — whether you’re an experiencedangler or a family looking for a peaceful afternoon by thewater. One of the most popular destinations is Horseshoe LakeState Park in Granite City. The 2,400-acre lake is a shallowoxbow off the Mississippi River, known for crappie,largemouth bass, bluegill, and channel catfish. It’s an idealspot for boating, with a 50-horsepower limit and accessibleboat ramps. Shoreline fishing is also popular here, andIllinois law allows only two poles per angler at this lake. In Wood River, Belk Park Lake offers a more intimatesetting, especially for families. The lake is regularly stockedwith redear sunfish, bluegill, channel catfish, and commoncarp. It’s a quiet, well-maintained location with easy bankaccess and a daily sunfish catch limit to keep theecosystem healthy. Nearby, Dunlap Lake in Edwardsville is a private,community-run lake, but it’s a great example of the types ofstocked waters available throughout the county. The lakefeatures channel catfish, walleye, largemouth bass, hybridbass, and muskie. For residents and those with access, it’s agem right in the heart of town. Beyond these well-known spots, Madison County offerscountless neighborhood ponds, creeks, and rivers where aquick afternoon trip can turn into a memory-makingadventure. The Mississippi River, Missouri River, and localfavorites like Tower Lake, Spanish Lake, and Gordon MooreLake in Alton provide additional options for casting a lineclose to home. Whether you prefer the expansive waters of the river ora quiet morning at a local park, Madison County’s fishingopportunities are as varied as they are plentiful.M13

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SERVICESMadison County GISWeb App Lets UsersTravel Back in Time adison County residents can now take a journey through time—without leaving their screens. The Madison County Geographic Information System (GIS) team has developed anew interactive web app that allows users to explore aerial imagery of their favoriteplaces and see how they’ve changed over the past three decades. The web app features a simple swipe bar that lets users seamlessly switchbetween current aerial photos and imagery from 1995. Whether it’s a belovedrestaurant, a childhood home, a favorite hang-out spot, or a bustling shoppingcenter, users can watch development unfold across the county with just a swipe. “It’s fascinating to see how much our communities have grown,” Madison CountyGIS Administrator Reese Facendini said. “Places we now consider landmarks wereonce empty fields or parking lots.” For example, the MCT bus station across from the Madison County AdministrationBuilding was just beginning construction in 1995. Now, it’s a fully developed hub forpublic transportation, surrounded by additional infrastructure that has shaped thedowntown area. The app provides a unique perspective on growth, infrastructure, and communityevolution—whether you’re tracing the expansion of local schools, mapping out newsubdivisions, or simply curious about the history of your neighborhood. Accessible to the public, the web app offers an easy, interactive way to connectwith the past and appreciate the rapid development Madison County hasexperienced over the years. Residents are encouraged to explore the map, share their findings, and take acloser look at the places that hold meaning to them. “Sometimes, going back helps us see how far we’ve come,” Facendini said. The Time Travel Web App is now live on the Madison County GIS website.M GIS Landing Page Direct to Web App HOW TO GET AFISHINGLICENSE IN ILLINOIS efore heading out, remember that anyone 16 or older needs a valid Illinois fishing licenseto fish in public waters. Youth under16, residents with disabilities, andactive-duty military on leave in Illinoisare typically exempt. Fishing licenses are easy to obtain:Online: Visit the IllinoisDepartment of Natural Resources(IDNR) at huntillinois.org topurchase a license and print orsave a digital copy.In person: Licenses are available atmost bait shops, sporting goodsstores, and even some locallibraries. Annual licenses are good fromMarch 1 to March 31 of the followingyear. A resident annual license costs$15, with discounted rates for seniorsand short-term options for bothresidents and visitors. Planning to fish for trout? Anglersage 16 and older will need to purchasean additional trout stamp during troutseason. Whether you’re fishing a quiet pond,casting from a riverbank, or teachingyour child to bait their first hook,Madison County offers endlessopportunities to slow down, enjoy theoutdoors, and make memories that lasta lifetime.B

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adison County’s Highway Department is using new technology to make sure what drivers see on Google Maps matches what they see on the road. By mounting a 360-degree camera on top of a countyvehicle, the department is capturing up-to-date, high-resolutionimages of roads, signage, and intersections throughout thecounty. Those images are then uploaded to Google Maps to helpcorrect outdated information and improve navigation accuracyfor residents, visitors, and service providers. “Google Maps is a tool our department, and many otheragencies in our area, use daily and there are areas in our Countythat haven’t been updated in many years. “ County EngineerAdam Walden said. “I decided that with a very small investmentwe can supply Google with more recent imagery which helps usdo our jobs more efficiently, but also helps Google provide up-to-date service for our citizens,” The camera captures panoramic video while the vehicletravels county-maintained routes. The videos are GPS-encodedand processed back in our office, before being uploaded toGoogle for hosting and accessibility. This provides a powerfultool for both internal use and public benefit. Once received, thedata can be used by Google to verify and update map content,hopefully correcting road names and identifying new alignmentsand refreshing street-level visuals. “Some areas do not get updated nearly as often as we wouldlike, especially less traveled rural roads or after newconstruction,” Walden said. “Now we can send in our ownimages and get those locations updated. We are just gettingstarted but we are already seeing benefits. I hope the publicdoes too.” The department plans to continue collecting and uploadingfootage on a regular basis, keeping the maps up to date as thecounty grows and changes. Walden hopes to expand the datacollection into municipalities and other areas where updatedStreetview images can provide benefit to others. USES USES 360° CAMERA TO IMPROVE360° CAMERA TO IMPROVE GOOGLE MAPS ACCURACYGOOGLE MAPS ACCURACYM15

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Madison County launches STARCOM21radio distribution — major step towardcountywide emergency communication adison County is turning up the volume on public safety. After years of planning and persistence, the county officiallylaunched the distribution of STARCOM21 radios to first responders,bringing the goal of seamless, countywide emergencycommunication within reach. “This has been a long and arduous process, but we are finallyhere,” Madison County 9-1-1 Director Arron Weber said. “Gettingthese radios into the hands of our police, fire, EMS, and emergencymanagement partners is a significant step toward ensuring real-time, seamless communication across jurisdictions. It’s a major stepin the right direction.” The STARCOM21 system is a statewide interoperable radionetwork that allows police, fire, EMS, and other agencies to talk toone another—no matter where they are in the county or state. Thissystem enhances coordination during emergencies, naturaldisasters, and multi-agency responses, ultimately improving publicsafety. “We still have work to do, so we can’t slow down,” Weber added.“But reaching this point in the rollout is something to celebrate.These radios will help keep our communities and our responderssafer.” Weber expressed gratitude to county leaders, partner agenciesand the public safety community for their continued support. “I want to thank everyone who has backed this effort from thebeginning,” Weber said. “Your support for our office and our missionmakes projects like this possible.”The STARCOM21 radios were purchased for $5.2 million usingAmerican Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and Emergency Telephone SystemBoard (ETSB) funds.The reason for the switch was to bring all eight public safetyanswering points (PSAPs) and emergency personnel, fire, police andEMS, in the county onto the same radio system. Alton and WoodRiver were operating on a different system than the remainder ofthe county.M

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PREPARING FOR EXTREME HEAT:PREPARING FOR EXTREME HEAT: Madison County EMA Urges Residents to Stay Safe ith extreme summer temperatures on the horizon, Madison County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) is encouraging residents to prepare now and take precautions to stay safe during periods ofexcessive heat. “Extreme heat can be just as dangerous as severe storms,” MadisonCounty EMA Director Fred Patterson said. “It’s important that peopleunderstand the risks and know how to protect themselves, especially theelderly, young children, and those with pre-existing health conditions.” Heat Safety Tips: Madison County EMA recommends the following steps to prevent heat-related illnesses: Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if youdon’t feel thirsty.Limit Outdoor Activities: Avoid strenuous outdoor work or exerciseduring the hottest parts of the day, typically between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.Wear Lightweight Clothing: Opt for light-colored, loose-fitting clothesthat allow your body to cool properly.Check on Vulnerable Neighbors: Regularly check on elderly relatives,neighbors, and others who may be at greater risk.Never Leave Children or Pets in Vehicles: Temperatures inside a parkedcar can rise to life-threatening levels within minutes.Know the Signs of Heat Illness: Watch for symptoms like dizziness,nausea, rapid pulse, headache, or confusion. Seek immediate medicalattention if these occur. Patterson said Madison County EMA is working closely with local partnersto monitor heat advisories and assist communities in the event ofemergencies. Cooling Centers Available In the event of prolonged heat advisories, cooling centers may beactivated throughout the county. Locations and hours will be shared on theMadison County website and EMA social media pages as needed. “Preparation saves lives,” Patterson said. “We want our residents to beaware, stay informed, and take the necessary steps to protect themselvesand their loved ones.” For more information on heat safety and emergency updates, visitwww.madisoncountyil.gov or follow Madison County EMA on social media. W17

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A moment of history was brought to life last week inside the MadisonCounty Courthouse as officials gathered to commemorate America’supcoming 250th anniversary. Originally planned for the courthouse lawn, the June 11 flag presentationwas moved indoors due to warm temperatures. The event featured PhillipBailey, past president of local chapter of the Sons of the AmericanRevolution, who arrived in a full Revolutionary War-era uniform to present acommemorative flag recognizing the approaching Semiquincentennial in2026. Bailey delivered brief remarks before formally presenting the flag toCircuit Clerk Patrick McRae on behalf of Madison County. “This flag reminds us that the freedoms we enjoy today were hard-earned,” Bailey said. “It’s a tribute to those who gave birth to this nation,and to the institutions that continue to protect its ideals.” McRae accepted the flag with gratitude and reflection. “It’s an honor to accept this flag and to be reminded of the incrediblesacrifices that shaped our country,” he said. “As we look toward the 250th anniversary, it’s important to reflect not just on where we came from, but on the responsibility we each carry to preserve those values going forward.” The event brought together community leaders and elected officials, including Chief Judge Christopher Threlkeld, Circuit Judge Tim Berkley an Associate Judges Patrick King, Andrew Carruthers, Justin Zimmerman and Ron Foster, State Senator Erica Harriss, State Representative Amy Elik, County Auditor David Michael, County Treasurer Mike Babcock, Coroner Nick Novacich and Regional Superintendent of Schools Robert Werden. Held in one of the courthouse’s historic courtrooms, the ceremony offered a fitting backdrop for a moment that bridged past and present — a quiet but powerful reminder of the enduring principles on which the nation was founded.Historic Flag Ceremony Brings RevolutionaryHistoric Flag Ceremony Brings RevolutionarySpirit to Madison County CourthouseSpirit to Madison County Courthouse

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GOODNEWS Recognizing the People of Madison CountyRecognizing the People of Madison County T he Alton River Dragons hit a home run for the community on June 18 as they hosted First Responder Night, honoring the men and women who serve and protect Madison County. Among those in attendance were Madison County Sheriff’s Deputies ChrisAlfaro and Maricela Williams, who proudly represented the Sheriff’s Office.The evening’s most heartfelt tribute, however, was dedicated to Alton PoliceK-9 Officer Odin, who was killed in the line of duty on Aug. 22, 2024. Odin’s handler, Officer Allen Averbeck, was honored alongside him in amoving display of respect and gratitude. Before storms rolled in and ended the game early, Averbeck took themound alongside State Senator Erica Harriss and State Representative AmyElik for a memorable ceremonial first pitch. The most powerful moment of the night came when Alton River Dragonsteam owner Steve Marso presented Averbeck with a retirement jersey in honorof Odin. In a gesture that will leave a lasting legacy, the team announced theywill retire Odin’s jersey number (#19), ensuring it will never be worn again. The River Dragons’ tribute was more than a game—it was a heartfeltreminder of the deep connection between first responders and the communitythey serve. Despite the weather, the night was a true win for all.1199Dragons Dedicate the Diamond toDragons Dedicate the Diamond toDeparted K-9 DefenderDeparted K-9 Defender

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Professional PeopleProfessional PeopleYOUNG, DRIVEN, AND MAKING A DIFFERENCEYOUNG, DRIVEN, AND MAKING A DIFFERENCE wo standout Madison County employees were recently named to The Telegraph and River Bend Growth Association’s Professional’s Under 40 list of risingprofessionals. Jennifer Kampwerth, forensic interviewer with the MadisonCounty Child Advocacy Center, and Kayla Bowing, work-basedlearning coordinator with Madison County Employment andTraining, earned recognition for their leadership, dedication,and community impact. The annual list honors young professionals who go aboveand beyond in their careers and in service to theircommunities. Kampwerth and Bowing exemplify thecommitment, innovation, and care that continue to moveMadison County forward. Check out the publication here.Congratulations to Madison County’s own rising stars!T

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Madison County BoardMeetingsCheck out the Citizens Guide on thecounty's website to find out more onthe operations of Madison CountyGovernment and its departments.The public is invited to attend County Boardmeetings, which are held in the Board Room atthe Madison County Administration Building, 157N. Main St., Edwardsville, Ill.Visit www.madisoncountyil.govfor more information.Check out the calendar to viewupcoming County Board andCommittee meetings.The Madison County Board Chairmanappoints individuals to more than 70boards and commissions with theadvice and consent of the CountyBoard. Click on the booklet to find outmore.Madison County Board — (618) 296-4341 — coboard@madisoncountyil.gov

Talk Around Town July 2025

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