EDWARDSVILLE — The East-West Gateway Council will have a new chairman this year: Madison County Chairman Alan Dunstan.

The council coordinates government officials, planners and private-sector partners to develop regional planning for transportation, housing, the environment, emergency preparedness, job creation and other aspects. Dunstan said he will focus on economic stability during his chairmanship.

"As we see continual signs of an improving economy in 2013, it is essential that we collectively work toward making the greater St. Louis area competitive and in position to take advantage of development opportunities," Dunstan said. "Not just growth and jobs for a particular city or county, but stability and prosperity for the entire St. Louis area."

St. Louis Mayor Francis Slay will be vice chairman, and St. Clair County Chairman Mark Kern will be second vice chairman. Dunstan's term is for one year.