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Democrat Lawmakers Pushing For 6-Figure Fines Over Statewide Burn Permits
GraniteCityGossip.com February 4, 2026
Granite City residents already know the drill. If you want to burn yard waste or light up a backyard firepit, the city requires an open‑burn permit. It’s a simple local rule, handled locally, and no one believes a forgotten permit for a family s’mores night would ever lead to life‑altering penalties.
That’s why many people are asking why democrats needs to step in with House Bill 4459, a statewide proposal that would allow counties and municipalities to require their own burn permits, something Granite City already does, but with fines up to…Tap to read the entire article and to share.
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Hit‑N‑Run Begins Reopening Drive‑Thru Service, Starting With Bethalto
GraniteCityGossip.com, February 4, 2026
Hit‑N‑Run is officially bringing back its popular drive‑thru service after months of customer requests. The first location to reopen will be the Bethalto store on Friday, February 6, operating from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. according to owner Dwight Fowler.
The Wood River location is expected to follow on Monday, with additional stores including both Alton locations, East Alton, and Granite City reopening their drive‑thrus in the coming weeks. Fowler described this as a “soft opening” with a gradual rollout as staffing and weather allow.
Fowler said the decision came after strong customer demand and noted that early feedback has already been overwhelmingly positive.
Troy Residents Voice Strong Opposition to Possible Data Center
As Granite City Prepares for Its Own Public Meeting
GraniteCityGossip.com February 3, 2026
A large turnout of Troy residents gathered this week to discuss early reports of a possible data center project being explored for the area.
Neighbors filled the room, many expressing firm opposition to the idea of a data center being built in or near the community.
Attendees emphasized their concerns respectfully, and the meeting remained civil throughout, with residents united in their message that such a development is not welcome in Troy.
While no formal proposal has been submitted to the city, the strong community response reflects growing regional interest in how data center projects may affect local infrastructure, utilities, and quality of life.
Granite City is preparing for its own public…Tap the link to read the full article and to see more images.
Madison County Chairman to Lead East-West Gateway Council of Governments
Feb. 2, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Madison County Board Chairman Chris Slusser will serve as chair of the East-West Gateway Council of Governments, guiding regional transportation, infrastructure and economic development planning across the bi-state St. Louis metropolitan area.
The East-west Gateway Board elected Slusser to the position on Jan. 30. East-West Gateway serves as the metropolitan planning organization for the St. Louis region, coordinating long-range transportation planning, federal funding priorities and regional development initiatives across eight counties in Illinois and Missouri and the City of St. Louis.
Established in 1965, the agency serves Madison, Monroe and St. Clair counties in Illinois, along with Franklin, Jefferson, St. Charles, St. Louis and St. Louis County in Missouri, and the City of St. Louis.
Slusser, who serves on the organization’s board of directors, said the appointment reflects Madison County’s expanding leadership in shaping the region’s economic, infrastructure and security priorities.
“Madison County continues to play a key role in shaping the future of…Tap the link to read the full Press Release.
GCHS Senior Adrianna Ireland Earns All-State Honors
GraniteCityGossip.com February 1, 2026
Granite City High School senior Adrianna Ireland has been selected to the Illinois Music Educators Association All-State Festival, one of the highest achievements available to high school musicians in the state. After a highly competitive audition process involving thousands of students, Ireland earned…Tap the link to read the full article and for more images.
Gaining Daylight in February, And When the Time Change Arrives
GraniteCityGossip.com February 1, 2025
February brings a noticeable shift toward longer days in our region. Sunrise comes a little earlier, sunset comes a little later, and by the end of the month the metro east area gains about one full hour of natural daylight, and all before the clocks change.
Daylight Saving Time begins on …Tap the link to read the entire article and to share.
Grigsby Elementary 2nd Graders Celebrate the 100th Day of School with STEM Fun
GraniteCityGossip.com, January 31, 2026
Photos courtesy of Granite City School District 9
Mrs. Nolan’s 2nd-grade class at Grigsby Elementary celebrated the 100th day of school with a hands‑on day of creativity, teamwork, and learning.
Students spent the day …tap here to read full article, for additional photos and to share.
Press Release January 30, 2026
Senator Erica Harriss Supports Legislation to Improve DCFS Accountability and Transparency
SPRINGFIELD — State Senator Erica Harriss (56th–Glen Carbon) is pushing for legislative reforms to strengthen accountability and transparency at the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), particularly regarding foster youth who go missing while under state supervision. Tap the link to read the full Press Release.
Nameoki Township Updates Large Item Pickup,
A Smarter, Fairer System for All Residents
GraniteCityGossip.com, January 29, 2026
Nameoki Township is making a thoughtful change to its large item trash pickup program, one designed to protect taxpayer dollars while still providing essential services to residents.
For years, the township offered a twice‑a‑year “Big Pickup” service, hauling away large household items curbside…tap to read entire article and to share.
Illinois American Water Proposes Rate Hike, Impacting All 148 Illinois Communities
GraniteCityGossip.com, January 28, 2026
llinois American Water has formally requested a rate increase from the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) to support approximately $577 million in infrastructure investments across its service areas. If approved, the new rates would take effect in January 2027 following an…Tap the link to read the entire article and to share.
Governor Pritzker’s HB‑43 Task Force Proposal Raises Questions Among Illinois Gun Owners
GraniteCityGossip.com January 28, 2026
A new bill moving through Springfield — HB‑43 — has sparked concern among Illinois gun owners, and for good reason. While the bill does not mandate firearm liability insurance or change FOID card requirements, it does create a Task Force on Firearm Insurance, a move many see as the first step toward future restrictions.
The task force would not have the power to create…Tap to read the entire article and to share.
GCHS Welcomes Sherand Boyd Jr. as New Head Football Coach and Special Education Teacher
GraniteCityGossip.com January 28, 2026
Granite City School District #9 is proud to announce the hiring of Sherand Boyd Jr. as the new Head Football Coach and Special Education Teacher at Granite City High School.
Boyd brings a strong blend of coaching experience, classroom leadership, and personal achievement that will serve GCHS students both on and off the field.
Boyd joins Granite City after seven years of coaching at the high school and collegiate levels. Most recently, he served as the…Tap the link to read the full article and to share.
Crow’s feet? Scowl lines? Frown line or forehead wrinkles?
Look no further than Regenerative Health and Chiropractic, LTD, right here in Granite City. Schedule a visit with Mariah today at 618-931-2050
Madison County Board Member Continues Fight to Regain Spot on March Primary Ballot
GraniteCityGossip.com, January 26, 2026
Madison County Board member John Janek is pressing forward with his effort to return to the March 17 primary ballot, announcing that he is seeking review from the 5th District Appellate Court after a county judge allowed an earlier election board ruling to stand.
Janek confirmed Friday that he intends to challenge the decision, though the appellate court.
Tap to read full article.
USPS Delivery Delays Continue as Deep Snow Creates Access Issues Across the City
GraniteCityGossip.com January 26, 2026
Following this past weekend’s heavy snowfall, many residents have reported missed mail deliveries in several neighborhoods. While some parts of the city received around 12 inches of snow, others saw even higher totals and deep drifts caused by strong winds pushing loose snow across streets and yards. These conditions have created significant challenges for United States Postal Service carriers trying to…Tap to read the entire article and to share.
A message from Mayor Parkinson–
NOTICE OF CITY OFFICE CLOSURE ON MONDAY DUE TO WEATHER CONDITIONS. Due to the 14-inch snow cover affecting most areas of Granite City and ongoing efforts to maintain safe conditions, city offices will be closed tomorrow, Monday. Despite continuous efforts by our plowing teams, the persistent wind and powder snow have hindered progress on clearing streets.
The application of salt has proven ineffective in these temperatures, as it melts the snow only to immediately turn into ice, creating hazardous conditions. Consequently, our public works crews are prioritizing main streets and snow routes. To ensure the safety of both employees and citizens, and to allow public works to focus on critical tasks, all non-emergency city offices will remain closed. We advise everyone to stay home, prioritize their safety, and allow our teams to address the situation. Mayor Parkinson
Why Granite City Is Updating Ordinances Now, And What Residents Need to Know
GraniteCityGossip.com January 24, 2026
Granite City leaders have confirmed that Cloverleaf, a company involved in data‑center development, has been in the area looking for land. That is not a rumor, the city was notified, and officials have been transparent about their presence from the beginning.
But there’s an important distinction that has caused confusion:
The city has had communication, but the city does NOT…Tap the link to read the full article and to share.
Mayor Parkinson Calls for Calm, Clarity, and Public Participation
as Data Center Speculation Grows
GraniteCityGossip.com, January 22, 2026
At Tuesday night’s council meeting, Mayor Mike Parkinson addressed the growing speculation on social media about the possibility of a data center coming to Granite City. His message was direct: there is no offer, no proposal, and no negotiations underway, but the city is taking steps…tap to read full article and to share.
Madison County Board Votes Down Proposal for “Day of Unity” Honoring Renee Good
GraniteCityGossip.com, January 22, 2026
A proposal to recognize a “Day of Unity” in honor of Renee Good, the Minnesota woman who was fatally shot by an ICE agent, was brought before the Madison County Board this week. After discussion, the measure failed in a 15–4 party‑line vote.
The resolution was introduced following a community gathering on the courthouse steps earlier this…Tap the link to read the full article and to share.
U.S. Steel CEO Says Granite City Works Has a Strong Future Under Golden Share Protections
GraniteCityGossip.com, January 19, 2026
In a new extended interview with CBS News, U.S. Steel CEO David Burritt offered encouraging news for Granite City families, emphasizing that he sees no plant closures ahead and highlighting how federal oversight including President Trump’s use of the golden share has helped protect the future of Granite City Works.
Burritt’s comments come at a time when many residents have been anxious about the long‑term stability of the mill. His message was clear: Granite City Works remains…tap to read full article and to share.
Gateway Regional to Resume United Healthcare Coverage February 1 ,
A Win for Granite City Families
GraniteCityGossip.com, January 19, 2026
Granite City and other local families have reason to celebrate, Gateway Regional Medical Center will once again accept United Healthcare insurance starting February 1, 2026. This long-awaited change means more residents can access the care they need without worrying about coverage gaps or financial strain.
Michelle Waller, CEO and COO of Gateway, announced…tap here to read entire article.
How Selective Narratives Push Americans Toward Anger and Division
GraniteCityGossip.com January 18, 2026
Public debate around immigration enforcement has become one of the most emotionally charged issues in the country. Viral posts often claim that one president’s actions are uniquely extreme while another’s were ignored. But when the emotion is stripped away and the facts are examined, a clearer picture emerges, one that shows how easily Americans can be pushed into…Tap to read the entire article and to share.
Structure Fire Displaces Residents on Old Alton Road with No Injuries Reported
GraniteCityGossip.com January 17, 2026
On Saturday, January 17, 2026, at approximately 14:38 hours, the Mitchell Fire Department responded to the 6100 block of Old Alton Road for a reported structure fire at a private residence. Engine Units #1121, #1122, and #1124, along with Chief #1100, Chief #1101, and Chief #1102, arrived to find heavy smoke and active fire coming from the home.
Due to the rapid progression of the incident, a First Alarm was immediately struck as…Tap to read the full article and to see more images and to share.
MADISON COUNTY BOARD
157 N. Main St.
Edwardsville, IL 62025
(618) 296-6200
Jan. 16, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Project Homeless Connect Links People to Housing, Health Care and Support
EDWARDSVILLE – Community members will come together later this month to support people experiencing homelessness or housing instability.
Madison County will host its annual Project Homeless Connect from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 30, bringing individuals and families who are navigating homelessness or a housing crisis together with services, support, and basic necessities all in a single, accessible location. Tap to read the entire Press Release and to share.
GraniteCityGossip.com, January 16, 2025
Illinois LINK in 2026 New Rules Arrive,
but Food Choices Stay the Same
GraniteCityGossip.com January 16, 2026
Did you know “Illinois LINK (SNAP) recipients can legally purchase lobster, filet mignon, ribeye, shrimp, crab legs, prime rib and any other high‑priced protein, as long as the item is cold, raw, frozen, or otherwise not hot/prepared at the time of purchase. This is because Illinois follows federal SNAP rules, which allow…tap here to read full article and to share or comment.
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We thank you for visiting GraniteCityGossip.com, celebrating over nineteen years of service to our community, August 2006 – February 2026
We will update as we receive new information just as we always have, so remember to send your announcements, fund raisers, birthday wishes to granitecitygossip@yahoo.com so we can include them on our page. Here is to another nineteen years Granite City!
Website last updated February 4, 2026
