RANTOUL, IL (Chambana Today) – For the first time in over a decade, Rantoul will have a new mayor. Sam Hall has been elected, defeating longtime incumbent Charles Smith.
Hall’s victory also marks a historic moment, as he becomes the first Black mayor in the village’s history. A 25-year resident of Rantoul, Hall brings a background in community engagement, having led a nonprofit focused on training parents to support classrooms, served as Chief Operating Officer for another nonprofit, and spent eight years as a village trustee.
As he transitions into the role of mayor, Hall has begun stepping back from previous responsibilities to focus on village priorities. His plans include bringing in more major retail businesses and hotels while also strengthening support for local small businesses. He also aims to develop the workforce, especially for residents aged 16 to 30, and make improvements to Rantoul’s roads.