URBANA, Ill. (Chambana Today) – Mayor DeShawn B. Williams marked the close of 2025 by reflecting on his first eight months in office, highlighting significant steps taken to strengthen the city’s finances, public safety, and future growth.

Since assuming office on May 5, 2025, Mayor Williams successfully passed a balanced city budget and adopted the Imagine Urbana Comprehensive Plan, which provides a clear vision for growth in housing, transportation, and economic development. The budget also included funding for a reparations study, underscoring the city’s commitment to equity and thoughtful policy-making.

The mayor’s first year saw improvements in public safety with the opening of two new fire stations, as well as the launch of the Alternative Response Task Force to engage the community in meaningful conversations. A Financial Literacy Program was also introduced to help residents gain better control over their finances.

Urbana’s economic development received a boost with ribbon-cutting events for several new businesses, including Hotel Royer, The Yard on Broadway, Lazy Daisy Diner and Café, and AmericInn by Wyndham. The grand reopening of Krannert Center for the Performing Arts and the Centennial Celebration of A&R Mechanical were also significant highlights.

Mayor Williams also introduced the Philo Road Ahead initiative, which aims to revitalize a key Urbana corridor with an emphasis on safety, neighborhood improvement, and small business support.

In addition to his work in Urbana, the mayor represented the city at the U.S. Conference of Mayors and the Democratic Mayors Association Summit. He graduated from the Edgar Fellows Executive Leadership Program and served on the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board, as well as the Restore, Reinvest, and Renew (R3) Program Board under Lieutenant Governor Stratton.

“While I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished in 2025, this work is just beginning,” said Mayor Williams. “Together, we are building an Urbana that is resilient, inclusive, and prepared for the future.”

For more information, visit the City of Urbana website at UrbanaIL.Gov.