URBANA —The Urbana City Council is accepting applications for a new member to represent Ward 6.
The ward’s incumbent council member, Grace Wilken, stepped down on Monday after representing the southeast part of the city since 2021.
Wilken had a significant impact on several measures related to policing. She pushed for the city to develop an alternative response program to support those facing a mental health crisis without a police response.
She also worked on a recently passed ordinance requiring council approval for the use of surveillance technology.
“I feel accomplished in my contributions to certain things in the city over the years, such as advocating consistently for transparency, due public process, and accountability in all of our government decisions, and always remembering that I don’t work for the city or the mayor, only for the people of Urbana,” Wilken said on Monday.
Many of her fellow council members thanked Wilken for her service.
“That was pretty fun, wasn’t it?” said Ward 2 Council Member Chris Evans, who was elected alongside Wilken in 2021. “What a delightful pain in the pants you’ve been … it has been stunning to watch your integrity, your honesty, your tenacity and your bravery in the face of constant criticism, including my criticism, and it’s been quite inspirational to work with you and watch you accomplish so much.”
Residents of Urbana’s 6th ward can apply to be appointed to Wilken’s former seat. The deadline is September 11.