EDWARDSVILLE - Madison County Board Chairman Chris Slusser talked about the importance of the Cross River Crimes Task Force in helping crack down on crime, some community concerns, and also discussed infrastructure, economic development, and data center projects at the North Alton Godfrey Business Council breakfast meeting Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026, at St. Anthony’s Health Center.
North Alton-Godfrey Business Council President Zeke Jabusch hosted the monthly meeting and introduced Chairman Slusser.
Slusser also pointed to schools and churches as drivers of community involvement in his keynote presentation.
Slusser said Madison County is cracking down on crime and has lower crime rates than St. Clair County.
"Our State's Attorney Tom Haine and Sheriff Jeff Connor formed the Cross River Crimes Task Force five years ago, and they have been addressing regional crime issues, namely vehicle theft, which has gone down dramatically since the formation of the task force," Slusser said at the business meeting.
Slusser mentioned that previously vehicle thefts were a problem in the county, but much of that has been stopped with the Task Force's constant work.
Chairman Slusser said Cathy Hamilton and Tom McRae are both working with him on economic development, community issues, and a five-year plan for Madison County. Slusser described the county’s role as providing support and infrastructure to communities.
Data center development was another focus. Slusser said technology and building design will help ease concerns about the facilities.
There aren't any current large data centers in Madison County, Slusser said, but there is one planned in Pontoon Beach, and there is interest in one in Granite City. He said that no land has been acquired for a Granite City location; thus, no zoning application has been submitted. He added that the potential for the Pontoon Beach data center is enormous, with potential tax revenue expected to be significant.
He mentioned major concerns for the potential projects: noise, water, and power can be mitigated through proper zoning.
Other development discussed by Slusser included Hollywood River Studios and an upcoming industrial project valued at upward of $800 million.
The association also welcomed new members: Mike Drake, retired from CNB Bank, as a personal member; Evangelical United Church of Christ, whose representative remains to be determined while it awaits selection of a pastor; and the James Klockenkemper Agency, Farmers Insurance, represented by Ryan Downey.
The association’s next breakfast meeting is scheduled for Nov. 10, 2026, at the Ranch House, with presentations by two members and members of the Riverbend CEO program.
The council also plans to host its 22nd annual Breakfast with Santa from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Dec. 3, 2026, at the Godfrey Knights of Columbus. Activities will include breakfast, live holiday music, a magic show, a balloon artist, face painting, and appearances by Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus.
Last year’s event drew 193 adults and children. The council financially supports the event to help keep it affordable, with no charge for children younger than age 6.
The council is seeking $50 donations to help underwrite the event. Payments may be made to NAGBC and mailed to P.O. Box 306, Godfrey, IL 62035, or brought to the November meeting.
(Riverbender.com's Grace Schwarte contributed to this story).
