Senior Residents Get Inside Look At Madison County Government
Tour gives Glen Carbon visitors a chance to meet county officials, explore courthouse.
EDWARDSVILLE — From jury trials to school safety, residents of a Glen Carbon senior living community got a firsthand look at Madison County government Tuesday during a tour of the courthouse and Administration Building.
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Residents of Keystone Place at Magnolia Commons met elected officials, explored county offices and asked questions to learn more about the government serving their community. Keystone Place offers independent living, assisted living and memory care.
“We want people to feel welcome here and know that this is their county government,” County Board Chairman Chris Slusser said. “Tours like this give residents a chance to see what we do, ask questions and meet the people who work every day to serve Madison County.”
Treasurer Mike Babcock opened the tour at the Administration Building before residents headed across the street to the courthouse.
Circuit Judge Patrick King led the group through the courthouse, explaining the roles of courthouse security deputies and deputy circuit clerks. He also highlighted photographs and displays documenting the county’s judicial history.
One display holds a large wooden gavel made by the late Judge A. Andreas “Andy” Matoesian, a skilled woodworker who crafted gavels for judges across Illinois, including King and other Madison County judges. King jokingly called a display of notable judges the county’s “wall of fame.”
In a courtroom, King explained how a civil jury trial proceeds, from jury selection and witness testimony to deliberations and a verdict.
“This is a place of serious business,” King told residents. He explained that people come to court seeking fairness and impartiality and expect judges to decide matters based on facts, evidence and law.
Residents asked questions about juries, trials and judges’ responsibilities. King also discussed his family, background and path from private practice to the bench.
One resident said she appreciated hearing about King’s family and background rather than seeing him only in his role as a judge. Others praised his personable approach and willingness to answer questions. The courthouse’s history particularly interested residents who had moved to Madison County from outside Illinois.
Circuit Clerk Patrick McRae joined the group and explained his office’s role as keeper of the court record. About 80 employees support daily court operations, he said, with deputy circuit clerks working alongside judges and maintaining court documents and exhibits.
Back at the Administration Building, Regional Superintendent of Schools Nancy Werden discussed the Regional Office of Education’s work with 13 school districts serving about 35,000 students.
Werden outlined school safety and compliance responsibilities, student programs and summer camps. She also described the office’s collaboration with Madison County 911 to map approximately 120 schools for emergency responders.
Several residents expressed surprise at the office’s range of services. One resident, a former teacher, was familiar with the office, while others said they had not realized how many services it provides.
“A lot of people know their local school district, but they may not realize everything the Regional Office of Education does to support our schools, educators, students and families,” Werden said. “That’s why opportunities like this are important. We get to explain our role and let people know about the programs and resources available right here in Madison County.”
Brian Brueggeman, communications director for the state’s attorney’s office, led that portion of the tour. Residents met Fitz, the courthouse facility dog, who spends his days between the office and courthouse. State’s Attorney Tom Haine also introduced himself and welcomed the group.
Slusser met with residents in the County Board Room to discuss the board, county government operations, his responsibilities as chairman and his priorities for the county.
County Clerk and Recorder Linda Andreas concluded the tour by explaining her office’s dual responsibilities. She said elections are only one part of the county clerk’s work, discussed other clerk and recorder functions and credited her staff with keeping operations running.
“County government touches people’s lives in more ways than they may realize,” Slusser said. “When residents come through our doors, meet our elected officials and employees and ask questions, they get a better understanding of who we are here to serve — and that’s them.”
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