RANTOUL — Former District 5 Village Trustee Samuel Hall III was sworn in as the first Black village president of Rantoul during a special board meeting at Village Hall Tuesday evening.
In his first speech as Rantoul’s first new chief executive in more than a decade, Hall explained his vision for the village with a focus on progress, equality and unity.
“I want to build a village where everyone feels seen, heard and valued,” Hall said. “A place where children grow up with opportunity, where families feel safe and supported, and where our seniors know that their wisdom and experience is honored.”
Hall also detailed plans to invest in infrastructure, including roads, sidewalks and public spaces, as well as in local youth and entrepreneurs.
“We’re going to ensure that our village is not only functional, but vibrant, accessible to everyone and prepared for the future growth we expect,” he said.
Hall defeated longtime incumbent Charles “Chuck” Smith in last month’s election. Smith had served as village president for the past 12 years.
Smith closed out his tenure by highlighting his administration’s accomplishments, including business development, the completion of the Rantoul Family Sports Complex, and the transfer of the decommissioned Chanute Air Force Base to the village.
“This administration set out to change the image and reputation of this community, and that we have achieved,” Smith said. “Now the benchmark is set for the newly elected administration to exceed our record and to continue our growth for a prosperous future in this community.”
Also sworn in at the meeting were Village Clerk Janet Gray as well as Village Trustees Loise Hanes, Donald Robertson and Mike Graham.