Madison County Chairman Outlines Development Priorities At North Alton-Godfrey Business Council Breakfast
Chris Slusser discussed crime prevention, infrastructure support, and major development projects during a council gathering, offering local business leaders a look at the county’s priorities.
EDWARDSVILLE - Madison County Board Chairman Chris Slusser urged regional cooperation to address theft and other 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.
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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.
Chairman Slusser said Tom McRae is 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, with discussion including smaller communities such as Jerseyville and Brighton.
Data center development was another focus. Slusser said technology and building design will help ease concerns about the facilities. He said data centers in Granite City and Pontoon Beach have limited noise and are working toward water solutions, including closed-loop and air-cooled systems.
Power demands at local centers remain a complex issue, Chairman Slusser said, but efforts are underway to reduce power consumption. He also said the centers’ heating and cooling needs will support local businesses.
According to information presented at the meeting, the Pontoon Beach Data Center is expected to pay $400 million annually in property taxes. Its first phase is expected to be completed in two years.
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).
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