URBANA, IL (Chambana Today) – In a 4–2 vote Monday night, the Urbana City Council approved newly elected Mayor DeShawn Williams’ slate of reappointments, including Police Chief Larry Boone, who will continue leading the Urbana Police Department until June 30, 2027.
Chief Boone has held the role since July 2023 after serving 33 years with the Norfolk, Virginia Police Department, where he spent six years as chief. He is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy and holds a master’s degree in public administration.
Council members Grace Wilken and Christopher Evans voted against Boone’s reappointment but offered no public comment on their decisions. Councilwoman Maryalice Wu was absent. Councilwoman Jaya Kolisetty acknowledged past disagreements with Boone but expressed hope for collaborative progress under the new administration.
In addition to Chief Boone, 11 other city officials were reappointed through June 2027, including:
- Carla Boyd, Human Rights and Equity Officer
- Thomas Webb, Information Technology Manager
- Matt Roeschley, City Attorney
- Elizabeth Hannan, Human Resources and Finance Director/CFO (also appointed as Interim City Administrator through June 2026 or until a permanent hire is made)
- Demond Dade, Fire Chief
- Tal Prendergast and Steve Doggett, Deputy Fire Chiefs
- Dave Smysor, Deputy Police Chief
- Tim Cowan, Public Works Director
- Vince Gustafson, Deputy Public Works Director
- John Zeman, City Engineer
Mayor Williams said he looks forward to working with the team and ensuring city leadership reflects the goals of Urbana residents.