Urbana voters will decide their next mayor in Tuesday’s Democratic primary election, early voting for which is already underway. The race features two Democrats: DeShawn Williams, Champaign County’s chief deputy treasurer, and Annie Adams, senior marketing coordinator for the Grainger College of Engineering.
In the absence of a Republican challenger, the winner of the primary will assume the mayor’s office.
Williams launched his campaign for mayor in 2022, building his message around enhanced financial literacy, youth development and economic growth. Sen. Dick Durbin endorsed Williams’ bid earlier this month.
Drawing on his banking and public finance background, he’s highlighted the importance of responsibly managing taxpayer funds and fostering local business success. Williams developed the KidzBiz program through the Urbana Parents Advocating Community Concern group, which aims to teach children money management and entrepreneurial skills.
More information about Williams can be found on his website.
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Adams, who entered the race in September, has lived in Urbana for nearly a decade and emphasizes infrastructure improvements, economic development and stronger community ties. Current Mayor Diane Marlin endorsed Adams to succeed her as Urbana’s next mayor.
Her platform includes expanding affordable housing, increasing Urbana’s population and making the city more friendly to pedestrians and cyclists. As a co-founder of Imbibe Urbana and Urbana First Fridays — events celebrating local arts and culture — she has aimed to improve downtown and promote community engagement.
More details are available on Adams’ website.
Marlin, who has been in office since 2017, is not seeking reelection. During her term, Marlin aimed to restore the city’s financial health, invest in infrastructure and lead Urbana through the COVID-19 pandemic.
The mayor of Urbana serves as the city’s chief executive. They oversee municipal operations, the city budget and long-term planning. The role also includes appointing department heads, working with the city council to shape policy and representing Urbana in regional and state affairs.
Early voting is available at the Brookens Administrative Center and the Illini Union through Monday. On Tuesday, polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. at designated polling locations throughout Urbana and Champaign.
More information about voting can be found on the Champaign County Clerk’s website.
