Talk Around Town May 2025 : simplebooklet.com

CONNECTING SENIORS TOSERVICES THAT MATTER GOOD NEWS3 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 toSpeakINSIDE5RECOGNITIONCELEBRATING CARE FROM CLASSROOM TOCOMMAND: SHERRIF FOR THEDAYCOVER STORY:CHAIRMANS LETTERATHLETES & ACADEMICSHONORED6YOUR MINDSET MATTERSMENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTHPUBLIC SERVANTRECOGNITIONCOUGAR CONGRATULATIONS7891210161517MAJOR CELEBRATIONMADISON COUNTY STATE’SATTORNEY RELEASES ANNUALREPORT192021222324MADISON COUNTY COMMUNITIESRECEIVE $2.2 MILLION BOOST FORPARKS AND RECREATION CLEANUP CASH: MADISON COUNTYOFFERING SECOND ROUND OFGRANTS TO FIGHT LITTERHELPING FAMILIES BEAT THE HEAT:FREE AC UNITS FOR LOW-INCOMEHOUSEHOLDSMADISON COUNTYCOMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT OFFERING SCHOLARSHIPS EMPOWERING TOMMORROW’SPEACEKEEPERS: APPLY NOW FORTHE SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM IN PICTURES

Page 4

Page 5

Sincerely,Chris SlusserMadison County ChairDear Residents, This spring we’re proud to shine the spotlight on Madison County’s young achievers. This edition is dedicated torecognizing the hard work, talent, and dedication that makes our county thrive. First, congratulations to 7-year-old James Terry, our honorary Sheriff for the Day, (page xx) whose enthusiasmand civic spirit were a reminder of the values that guide our public service. This unique opportunity not onlyhighlights the importance of law enforcement but also inspires future generations to get involved in local leadership. Secondly, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to the student-athletes — Senior Drake Champlin of East AltonWood River and Freshman Chloe Skiles of Roxana High School (my alma mater by the way) for “grappling” to makehistory. These individuals and teams not only competed with excellence but also exemplified teamwork andperseverance. Their success represents the strength of our athletic programs and the spirit of the schools. Equally commendable are our academic achievers of the Metro East Lutheran High School Scholar Bowl Team,whose diligence and intellectual curiosity helped them capture their second consecutive first place state title in theScholar Bowl and continue to set high standards. These students remind us that academic excellence is a cornerstoneof future success. Whether on the mat or behind the buzzer, our high school students remind us that team spirit and perseverancelead to success. Madison County salutes these scholar-athletes and congratulates all teams – wrestlers and quiz-bowlalike – on their outstanding achievements this season. Our community’s pride also extends to college athletes, especially the men’s Southern Illinois UniversityEdwardsville (SIUE) basketball team. This year the team celebrated historic firsts. They won their first-ever OhioValley Conference championship and earned SIUE’s inaugural NCAA Division I Tournament berth. We also bid farewell to long-time public servants who have given decades to our community. The boardrecognized Animal Control Officer Todd Kruse on his April retirement after serving 35 years with the county andCounty Board Liaison Mallory Stoner, who after 10 years in the position, stepped into a new role as office managerwith the Highway Department. Congratulations to them both. Education remains a priority in Madison County. Community Development scholarships are available to localstudents who are economically disadvantaged and wanting to pursue higher education. These scholarships are morethan financial support—they are investments in potential, rewarding years of effort and fueling dreams for thefuture. Lastly, we want to encourage governing bodies to secure and utilize the county’s litter grants for theircommunities. These initiatives show how small actions—like cleaning up public spaces—can have a lastingenvironmental and social impact. They remind us that leadership comes in many forms. All these stories – from championship wins to retirements– are reminders of what makes Madison County strong.It is your neighbors, students, educators, officials and volunteers who together keep our community vibrant. As wecelebrate spring and look ahead, let’s continue to support one another: cheer on our athletes, thank our publicservants, and pitch in for the causes that matter. Thank you for being part of this journey with us. 5

Page 6

Athletes &Athletes &AcademicsAcademicsHonoredHonored adison County recognized two high school grapplers and a scholastic bowl team for winning state championships during its April board meeting. Chairman Chris Slusser and Regional Superintendent of Schools Robert Werden presented East Alton WoodRiver High School Senior Drake Champlin and Roxana Freshman Chloe Skiles with Certificate of Recognition ontheir achievements. Champlin won the Illinois High School Association Class (IHSA) 1A 215-pound state wrestling championshipwith a score of 7-3. Champlin finished the season 47-1.Skiles won the IHSA Class 1A 105-pound state wrestling championship with a score of 10-5. Skiles finished theseason 46-5. Slusser and Werden also presented a Certificate of Achievement to the Metro East Lutheran High SchoolScholastic Bowl Team for winning their second IHSA Class 1A State Championship under Coach ShannaCovarrubias. MELHS team member Dean Hemmer, a sophomore, was named to the All-State First Team, and Peter Curtis,a junior, was named to the All-State Second Team. MELHS varsity team also includes Dalton Beers, Erik Neath,Andrew Maske, Logan Abbott and Evan Klaustermeier, who are all seniors, and Grant Moss, a sophomore. Congratulations to all these students on their athletic and academic success.RECOGNITIONM

Page 7

adison County the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) Men’s Basketball team. Chairman Chris Slusser and Regional Superintendent ofSchools Robert Werden presented players and Head CoachBrian Barone, Associate Head Coach Colin Schneider, AssistantCoaches Ryan Hellenthal, Angres Thorpe and Jay Bradley on thesuccess of their 2024-25 season. The team celebrated historic firsts. They won their first-everOhio Valley Conference championship and earning SIUE’sinaugural NCAA Division I Tournament berth — they were oneof the 64 teams to qualify for the collegiate competition. Congratulations on your successful season! MCougareCougareCongratulationsCongratulations7

Page 8

Public ServantPublic ServantRecognitionRecognitionM adison County recognized two of its public servants during its April board meeting. Chairman Chris Slusser presented a Certificate of Recognitionto Lead Animal Control Officer Todd Kruse on his April retirementafter serving 35 years with the county. Kruse began his career atthe county on Sept. 24, 1990, as an animal control officer and waspromoted to lead ACO in June 2014. Before his retirement on April 4, 2025, Todd worked under fourCounty Board chairmen, four veterinarians and was part of variousdepartment changes, including Animal Care & Control becoming a“no-kill” shelter to help save hundreds of lives of cats and dogsevery year. Slusser also presented County Board Liaison MalloryStoner with a Certificate of Appreciation. Stoner steppeddown from the role she’s held in the County Clerk’s Officefor 10 years. During her time in the clerk’s office, she’s worked withdozens of elected officials helping to inform them aboutcommittee and board procedures, putting togethercommittee and board agendas, making sure all documentsare signed following meetings and taking care of the needsof board members. The County Board members praised Stoner and said theyappreciated all she did for them and even though it’s not agoodbye, they wanted to congratulate her and wish her wellon her new position as the Highway Department OfficeManager.

Page 9

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTHFind out more by scanning the QR Code or years, you wore a smile like armor. To friends, coworkers, and even family, everything seemed fine. Inside, though, a quiet storm brewed—anxiety, exhaustion, and a sense of isolation that no amount of sleep or socializing could fix. It wasn’t until a close friend asked a simple, genuine question— “How are you really doing?”— then youbroke down. That moment, raw and unfiltered, became the turning point. You sought therapy, began journaling and joined a local support group. It wasn’t easy. There were setbacks.But for the first time, healing became possible. The fog didn’t lift all at once, but gradually, you started to feelthe sun again. Mental health struggles are often invisible, but they are real. The Madison County Mental Health Board joinswith organizations across the nation to recognize Mental Health Awareness Month and promote mental healthwellness and care. Mental health is essential for overall well-being at every stage of life. Regardless of age, background, orexperience, prioritizing mental health strengthens individuals, families, and communities. Mental and physical health are deeply connected—and integrated care for co-occurring conditions supportslifelong wellness. Mental and physical health are equally important, taking care of one supports the other. Depression and anxiety increase the risk of chronic illnesses like heart disease and diabetes. Regular activity, good nutrition, and quality sleep support both mental and physical well-being. Integrated treatment for co-occurring mental health and substance use conditions improves outcomes. Preventive care, strong support networks, and early intervention promote lifelong wellness. Strong mentalhealth is for everyone—and support should be available to all. Each person’s mental health journey is unique—a strong support system makes a difference. Prioritizing self-care and seeking support strengthen resilience and well-being. Social connection and community support play a vital role in mental health and recovery. Open conversations about mental health help break stigma and encourage people to seek support. Mental Health Resources are available throughout Madison County. To find Mental Health resources, checkout the directory online here. Let’s remind ourselves and each other: it’s okay to not be okay—and it’s more than okay to ask for help. F9

Page 10

Connecting Seniors toServices that Matter Most adison County TRIAD is set to host its second annual Senior Fair. The fair will provide seniors with a one-stop shop for available resources from 9 a.m. to noon. onFriday, May 16 at the Madison County Administration Building, 157 N. Main St., Edwardsville. “There are a wide variety of resources available for seniors, but not everyone may be aware of them,”Sheriff’s Capt. William Marconi said. “Our goal is to help connect seniors with Madison County’sresources and other information to help them stay safe, informed and healthy.” Marconi, who is past president and member of Madison County TRIAD, said the event is an opportunity for seniors, their families and their caregivers to learn about services that are available across the county as well. “If you are a senior, care for a senior, or love a senior, you won’t want to miss this event,” he said. TRIAD, which is a group of three, represents the three sectors of the community that partner to keep older adults safe from crime — public safety, criminal justice and the older adult community. TRIAD has two objectives — reduce crime against older adults and to reduce the fear of crime that older adults experience. “We had a good turnout last year,” Marconi said. “This year's event is a win-win partnership for seniors and our entire community,” Marconi said. Madison County offices participating in the event include Sheriff, State’s Attorney, Chief County Assessment Office, Board of Review, Community Development, County Clerk/Recorder’, Circuit Clerk, Veterans Assistance Commission, 911, Mental Health Board and Health Department. Other offices participating in the event will include various state and non-profit agencies. Organizations will be available to answer questions on everything from senior scams to tax breaks for seniors.M

Page 11

Page 12

Page 13

earing his new uniform top and a wide grin, 7-year-old James Terry took the reins as Sheriff for the Day, stepping into the boots of law enforcement for a behind-the-scenes look atjustice in action. James’ parents, Sam and Katy Terry, placed the winningbid at his school’s fundraiser that put him into his “new”position on April 30. The Maryville Christian Academy first grader started hisday by being picked up by Sheriff Jeff Connor, then grabbingdoughnuts at Mr. Donut before heading to the office to starttheir day. Shorting after eating doughnuts at his “new” desk,James was escorted to the Madison County Courthouse to besworn in by Chief Judge Christopher Threlkeld. Sheriff Connor along with other elected officialscongratulated the “new” law enforcement officer, includingtwo retired Madison County Sheriff deputies who onceworked with James’ grandfather and namesake — DeputySgt. James Terry. James never knew father was a young boy. The elder James, who was also an Edwardsville alderman at the time of his death, was 38-years old when he suffered a brain tumor. Sam said when he saw the auction item, he knew it was something he had to bid on for his son. Katy said James was super excited aboutthe day and he was up and dressed by 6:30 a.m. ready to go. Following the swearing in ceremony, Sheriff Terry madehis way back to the his office where he met the staff andtoured the jail facilities including the new Sally Port, beforegoing to Chic-fil-A for lunch and then coming back to theoffice where he then visited the dispatch center and vehiclebay. Sheriff Terry also took part in a staff meeting with thedepartment captains and got the chance to suggest newpolicies. “We presented ideas and asked him questions about whathe thought,” Sheriff Connor said. He said during the meeting a recommendation was madeto change uniform colors for inmates, however Sheriff Terrysaid costs should be considered before making a change andif they do decide to go with new colors they should sell theold ones as surplus to other jails who are using that color. He also advised that although the doughnuts tasted good,deputies should eat healthier meals to stay physically fit. “He really thought about it and for a young man his ageand he had great questions and gave good input,” SheriffConnor said. Sheriff Connor said all his input will all be taken underconsideration. Sheriff Terry ended his day inspecting one of the PatrolDivision vehicles and receiving lessons on how to utilize stop sticks and other patrol techniques. James said he enjoyed his “new job” for the day and although he was ready for recess he wasn’t quite ready to go back to school. “Do I have to go back?” he asked as he made his way from the vehicle bay to the front of the sheriff’s office with his dad. The sheriff’s auction item for Maryville ChristianAcademy raised $1,500 with the proceeds going directly to the school. “Giving kids a chance to see law enforcement up close not only builds trust, but also inspires the nextgeneration,” Sheriff Connor said. “We’re thankful to be able to support community events.” WRetired deputies RickWeissenborn (left)and Jim Newmanstand with the “new”sheriff.Madsion County Chief Judge Christopher Threlkeld swears in the“new” sheriff.13

Page 14

Page 15

GOODNEWS Recognizing the People of Madison CountyRecognizing the People of Madison County Major CelebrationMajor CelebrationCRIME UNIT CELEBRATING 60 YEARSCRIME UNIT CELEBRATING 60 YEARSI t’s one of the greatest success stories in American crime-fighting history. The Major Case Squad (MCS) of Greater St. Louis is marking its 60th anniversary. Local leaders, law enforcement officials, and communitymembers gathered to celebrate the milestone event onApril 10. Madison County State’s Attorney Tom Haine andSheriff Jeff Connor joined more than 600 prosecutors andpolice investigators from across the region for theanniversary celebration, awards presentation and trainingsession. MCS is a bi-state, multi-agency unit that investigatesthe most serious crimes, including homicides, abductionsand other crimes that threaten the community. Connor, who serves as Chairman of the MCS Board ofDirectors, presented the awards. Haine, along with St. LouisCounty Prosecuting Attorney Melissa Price Smith, gave theceremonies opening remarks. Connor said the idea for the agency was to create agroup of trained criminal investigators that would be on callto assist any agency. He said there are 120 participating agencies in 16 counties in Illinois and Missouri that makeup the MCS. It was the first and remains America’s largest homicidetask force. The investigators are “on call” whenever andwherever needed. The approach has remained consistent. No lead goesunchecked. When called, between 20 to 25 topinvestigators dig into a case for at least the first 5 days inways small departments can’t do on their own. Connor said it doesn’t matter where someone in lawenforcement works. If they are a police officer, they are apolice officer. He credits the unit’s success to the dedication andteamwork of the participating agencies. Since the inception of the MCS, the unit has been activated832 times, with a clearance rate of 86 percent. In 716 ofthose cases, a deputy commander was able to inform familymembers of victims that an arrest had been made. “And that’s impressive,” Connor said. 15

Page 16

Celebrating CareCelebrating Care he Illinois Department of Public Health recognized one of Madison County’s own for her work in public health. Patty Morgan received the David Baker Award for Excellence in Integrating Public Health and InfectionControl at the 2025 Illinois Infectious Diseases Conference on April 16. She was recognized for her work ininfectious disease surveillance, outbreak response, and infection control. The award is in memory of David Baker, who worked in the IDPH Communicable Disease Section as aninfection control expert. David passed away unexpectedly in October 2020 after working in that section fornearly four years. David was passionate about protecting the most vulnerable Illinois residents, especiallyveterans. For the past 22 years, Morgan has worked as a nurse for the Health Department. Health Department Administrator Doug King said her service and dedication have been essential to thedepartment. “She is passionate about protecting every Madison County resident, especially the most vulnerable,” Kingsaid. “She demonstrates expertise and empathy in her daily work.”TNURSE RECIEVES PUBLIC HEALTH AWARDNURSE RECIEVES PUBLIC HEALTH AWARD

Page 17

MadisonMadisonCountyCountyState'sState'sAttorneyAttorneyreleasesreleasesannualannualreportreport n a year marked by rising caseloads and shifting public safety priorities, the Madison County State’s Attorney’s Office released its2024 Annual Report last month, highlighting theachievements, initiatives and progress the officemade. “This report reflects our unwavering commitmentto protecting Madison County residents,” State’sAttorney Tom Haine said. “From holding violentoffenders accountable to supporting crime-prevention efforts, our office remains focused ondelivering justice, ensuring public safety andprotecting the County’s interests, all whilecontinuing our track record of fiscal responsibility.” Haine presented the Annual Report to the CountyBoard during the April 16 meeting. The report outlines the work of the State'sAttorney's Office in upholding the law, prosecutingoffenders, advocating for victims of crime andproviding critical legal services for the County. Keyhighlights of the report include statistics on charges,detentions and caseloads, as well as informationabout office initiatives and personnel. I17

Page 18

The SAFE-T Act, which eliminated cash bail,was in effect for its first full year in 2024. TheState’s Attorney’s Office filed 562 DetentionPetitions during the year, asking that a defendantremain in custody while awaiting trial. There were426 court hearings held on those petitions. TheCourts granted 325 of the Detention Petitions.The State’s Attorney’s Office thus was successfulin detaining defendants in about 77 percent of thecases in which prosecutors sought detention andpresented arguments and proffers to the Court. “We believe that ratio is indicative of a firmapproach – we’re not seeking detention in onlythe slam-dunk cases,” Haine said. “We’re workinghard to keep dangerous individuals off our streetswhile adjusting to the SAFE-T Act’s upheaval ofthe Criminal Justice System.” The report shows the State’s Attorney’s Office’sexpenditures were $377,280 under budget for2024. Other highlights of the report include:Record settlement involving oil refineryproperty assessment (increase of $13.6million)Recap of Cross-River Crime Task Force’senforcement details, awards and leadershipchangesDevelopment of comprehensive proceduralguide for County Board membersRecap of major felony convictions,sentencings and chargesOverview of community engagement activities The full report is available on the MadisonCounty State's Attorney's Office website:www.madcosao.gov. “The Annual Report represents our commitmentto transparency, accountability, and progress inserving the citizens of Madison County,” Hainesaid. “I look forward to sharing theseaccomplishments with the County Board and withthe community and continuing our efforts tosafeguard our County. I’m very proud of theachievements of our dedicated staff, but we knowthere is always more work to do.” According to the report, the State’s Attorney’sOffice filed 2,970 new felony charges in 2024,while resolving 2,663 felony cases. There were24,941 new misdemeanor traffic and DUI casesfiled. Serious drug offenses topped the list of feloniesthat were most frequently charged in 2024. There were 529 felony charges of possession ofmethamphetamine filed in 2024. There were 349felony charges of possession of a controlledsubstance (such as heroin, fentanyl and cocaine)filed in 2024. “Harmful drugs continue to pose a challenge inour county, as they do in most counties,” Hainesaid. On a positive note, the number of defendantscharged with murder dropped from 18 in 2023 to6 in 2024. Of those, the charges against five of thesix defendants stem from a single incident (fatalshooting of Ra’niya Steward). “While even a single murder is too many, andwe should be careful in making inferences whendealing with small datasets, we welcome thisreduction,” Haine said.

Page 19

Alton BethaltoCollinsvilleEast AltonEdwardsvilleGlen CarbonGodfreyHamelHartfordHighlandLivingstonMadisonMarineMaryvilleNew DouglasSouth RoxanaSt. JacobWilliamsonWood RiverWorden$202,840$ 73,549$192,491$ 45,709$211,783$109,352$140,818$ 30,000$ 30,000$ 78,929$ 30,000$ 30,000$ 30,000$ 64,946$ 30,000$ 30,000$ 30,000$ 30,000$ 82,579$ 15,000Alhambara TownshipChoteau TownshipCollinsville TownshipFoster TownshipNew Douglas TownshipWood River Township$30,000$59,369$41,704$19,500$30,000$36,418Granite City Park DistrictRoxana Community Park DistrictSt. Jacob Park DistrictTri-Township Park DistrictVenice Park District$218,759$ 30,000$ 30,000$140,454$ 30,000GRANTS FORMunicipalitiesMunicipalitiesMunicipalitiesTownshipsTownshipsTownshipsParkParkPark DistrictsDistrictsDistrictsMadison CountyMadison CountyCommunities receive $2.2Communities receive $2.2million boost for parksmillion boost for parksand recreationand recreation rea parks and recreation will see some revitalization thanks to a new round of grants awarded by Madison County Community Development. The County Board voted April 16 to authorize the $2,199,075 inPark Enhancement Program (PEP) grant funding. The funding will be distributed to 31 cities, townships, villages andpark districts to support improvements ranging from pickleball courts,batting cages, outdoor fitness equipment, drinking fountains, lighting,concession stands, new playground equipment, sidewalks, picnic tables,mowers and more. PEP grant funding ranges between $30,000 to $211,000. Thefunding can also be combined with city, village, township and parkdistrict funds to finance larger projects. “Since its establishment the funds have been used to improve parksand recreational facilities across the county,” Chairman Chris Slussersaid. Slusser said that PEP grants are successful thanks to the taxpayers. Voters approved 1/10th of one percent sales tax in 2000 under theIllinois Metro-East Park and Recreation District Act and MadisonCounty’s Community Development Department administers the PEPfunding through Madison County Park and Recreation GrantCommission. In the program’s 25 years, municipalities, townships and parkdistricts received more than $28 million in funding. The grants areapplied for on an annual basis.County Board member and Grants Committee Chair Denise Wiehardt ofGranite City said the program benefits taxpayers countywide. She saidtaxing districts can maintain and improve parks and recreationalfacilities with the PEP funding. “We have a vast network of parks and recreational facilities withinthe county and these things enhance the quality of life for all ourresidents,” Wiehardt said. “People in every community can go to theirlocal park and point to something that was built with the sales taxfunding.” Slusser said not only do residents enjoy the amenities at all thecounty’s parks and recreational facilities but so do the people who visitMadison County. “This program contributes and enhances the quality of lifethroughout the county,” Slusser said. “People can go to any park andpoint to something that the PEP grants funded.”A19

Page 20

Cleanup Cash: Madison County offeringCleanup Cash: Madison County offeringsecond round of grant funding to fight littersecond round of grant funding to fight litterSERVICESboard, city council, village board, township or othergoverning body approving the application. Doucleff said that governing bodies can work withnon-profits and other organizations, however, only theyare allowed to apply for the grant. Since the Clean Communities program started in 2020,individuals and groups have participated in helping cleartrash and debris from the county.“We’ve seen this program grow since it first started,”Doucleff said. “The plan was and still is to build a county-wide team of action-oriented individuals who take pridein the health and well-being of their communities. “We want to be a helpful partner in this collaborativeeffort.” Doucleff said. For anyone interested in applying, applicants can lookat the list of possible expenditures, which includessupplies and equipment, disposal services, volunteersupport and incentives, promotion and publicengagement, and project management and logistics.More detailed information can be found on the last pageof the application packet online atwww.madisoncountyil.gov. The deadline to apply is Friday, June 13.Reimbursement requests must be submitted once clean-up event services conclude and before Friday, Oct. 17,2025. For those not interested in the grant, the county’sClean Communities program still provides free clean upsupplies (grabbers, reflective vests, gloves, and bags) forvolunteers. The public can access more information andrequest clean up supplies here. “Community involvement is a vital component in thiseffort to keeping our county clean,” pring cleaning isn’t just for closets — in Madison County, it’s a call to action to build on a strong foundation of success and keep roadsides andcommunities litter free. The Building and Zoning Department looks to continue itswork in ongoing litter mitigation and county cleanliness efforts.For the second time this year, the department is offering amatch grant through its Clean Communities Litter Grantprogram. “(Madison County) announced the new program in February,”Chairman Chris Slusser said. “We wanted to do something to getthe public more involved with helping to keep our communitiesclean.” Building and Zoning oversees the new grant program, whichpromotes environmental stewardship, engages residents incleanup efforts and fosters pride in shared public spaces.Building and Zoning Administrator Chris Doucleff said for thepast five years Madison County has offered citizens litter kits toassist in keeping communities clean and this grant opportunityis just the next step. Doucleff said the grant will provide funding up to $2,500 inmatching funds.“This is a 100 percent match grant,” Doucleff said. The grant is intended to provide financial assistance and supportfor municipalities, townships, park districts and partners thathelp combat litter in their area.He said during the first round there was one application filed. “It’s such a new grant that people aren’t really sure about ityet,” Doucleff said. When the county created the program, it decided there wouldbe a maximum in $25,000 in funding and that 10 applicantswould be selected. The grantee must provide at least one resolution from a park S

Page 21

1 $2,6082 $3,5253 $4,4424 $5,3585 $6,2756 $7,1927 $8,1088 $9,025For Each Additional Person, Add $9172025CSBG 200% POVERTY INCOME GUIDELINESFAMILY SIZE 30 DAYS GROSS INCOMEHelping Families Beat the Heat: FreeHelping Families Beat the Heat: FreeAC Units for Low-Income HouseholdsAC Units for Low-Income Households s temperatures start to rise, staying cool isn’t just about comfort— it’s a about health and safety and the reason why Madison County Community Development (MCCD) is providingwindow air conditioners to low-income households. For many, the cost of an air conditioner is out of reach. This programoffers relief to those who need it most. MCCD’s Community Service Block Grant (CSBG) administers thefunding for the program. Households must be at or below 200 percentof the Federal Poverty Guidelines Households that received an air conditioner from MCCD within thelast three years are not eligible. To qualify for a window air conditioning unit: Household MUST reside in Madison County.Each household/individual MUST complete an intake form.MUST present a picture ID.MUST provide Social Security cards for every household memberEach household member MUST provide GROSS incomedocumentation for their ENTIRE household/family income for thepast 30 days. Everyone over the age of 18 must provide incomedocumentation.Be 60 or older, if under 60, applicants must have a doctor’s notecontaining a specific reason for the air conditioning; householdswith children under 5 years of age. Medical conditions may includeasthma, COPD, emphysema, coronary disease and immediateterminal illness.Each household MUST provide a current copy of their utility bill toprove that they have utilities, and do not have a back bill and arenot in threat of disconnection. The utility bill MUST be less than$600.Household MUST fall under the following income guidelines. Only one window AC unit will be provided per qualifying household. Only the person who filed the application will be allowed to pick upthe AC and is required to show a picture ID. Staff will assist clientswith completing a release/waiver/indemnifying agreement for trackingpurposes. For an appointment, please call (618) 296-6177 from 8:30 a.m. to4:30 p.m. Monday through FridayA21

Page 22

Previous recipients may apply for the scholarship again so long asthey maintain a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 to 4.0. Deadline for submitting applications is Friday, June 20, 2025. TheCSBG Advisory Council Scholarship Committee will review all theapplications, make the final selections and make an announcement in July. Completed applications can be submitted to Madison CountyCommunity Development, Attn: CSBG Scholarship Program, 157 N MainStreet, Suite 312, Edwardsville, IL 62025 between 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Please contact Amy Lyerla at (618) 296-4382 orallyerla@madisoncountyil.gov for any questions, Family size12345678Income guidelines30-day Income$2,608$3,525$4,442$5,358$6,275$7,192$8,108$9,025For families with more than eight members, add $917 for eachadditional member adison County Community Development is offering scholarships to local students planning to attend college in the fall. Scholarships will be awarded to students who are residents of MadisonCounty and attending a college, a university or training program in theState of Illinois. The Community Services Block Grant program will select 5students to receive a $4,000.00 scholarship for the 2025-2026 schoolyear. Awards will be disbursed in two $2,000 increments at the start ofeach semester. Those interested in applying for the scholarship may contact local areafinancial aid offices of Lewis & Clark Community College, SouthwesternIllinois College and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, their localhigh school counselor’s office or the county’s website at https://cms4files.revize.com/madisoncountyilus/Community_Development/Scholarship%20announcement%202025.pdf To be eligible, students must meet the block grant income guidelines aswell as the other requirements as follows:Scholarships will be awarded to the college.Candidates must be residents of Madison County, Ill.Candidates must meet the criteria for poverty income for the entirehousehold (attached for three months) and complete the intake/familymember information forms and college application. In addition, thecandidate’s entire household over 18 years of age must provide proofof (gross) income for 30 days, along with verification documents suchas check stubs and printouts or income statements.Candidates are required to submit a copy of their college transcripts,or if just entering college, high school transcripts.Candidates are required to submit one letter of recommendation froma high school or college official from an institution attended or oneattending. Letters of recommendation must be submitted on officialletterhead.Candidates must submit a one-page essay describing themselves,their college plans and career goals. Essays should consist of students’personal experiences and/or circumstances. Candidates should tell ussomething not communicated in the application, which sets aparttheir scholarship application from others. Examples include, but arenot limited to:Hobbies, special interests and unique skills.Volunteer work and involvement with organizations in the community.When and what type of awards or special recognition.Goals and ambitions the scholarship committee should know about.How would receiving this scholarship impact your life?Madison CountyCommunityDevelopment offering scholarships M

Page 23

Empowering tommorrow’s Peacekeepers:Apply now for the scholarship program n the heart of Illinois, the roar of motorcycles and the flutter of the American flag unite communities with a common purpose: supporting those who safeguard our freedoms. The Madison County Sheriff's Office proudly spotlights the Illinois Sheriffs'Association's commitment to our law enforcement and military families through thePeacekeepers Scholarship Program.A Tradition of Giving Back Established in 2004, the Peacekeepers initiative has been a beacon of hope,transforming the gratitude of a state into educational opportunities. As a 501(c)(3)organization, it dedicates its efforts to raising funds for the families of Illinois lawenforcement officers and members of the Illinois Military — ensuring that the legacy ofservice and sacrifice continues beyond the uniform.Scholarships That Honor Service Each year, the Illinois Sheriffs' Association offers special scholarships to the childrenand spouses of our brave service members. These scholarships are more than financialsupport; they are a tribute to those who have dedicated their lives to our safety andsecurity. Eligibility extends to dependents of law enforcement officers — active duty,retired or fallen in the line of duty—as well as active-duty Military, Military Reserve,National Guard members, and those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.Apply Now for the 2025-2026 Academic Year The call to honor our heroes echoes louder as we announce that the PeacekeepersScholarship Application for the 2025-2026 academic year is now open. The deadline tostep forward and claim this opportunity is Monday, June 2, 2025 We urge eligiblefamilies to seize this chance to propel their educational dreams forward, powered by thespirit of those they admire.How to Join the Cause Whether you're a student ready to carve your own path or a community member eagerto contribute, your involvement makes a difference. Candidates can click here todownload a fillable PDF application. Supporters who wish to donate to the Peacekeepersfund can do so through the Peacekeepers app or by contacting the Madison CountySheriff's Office for more information. IFind out more byscanning the QR Code23

Page 24

Page 25

Page 26

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 May 2025

Page 1

Page 2

Page 3