UPDATE: Two candidates are vying for the City of Champaign Township Supervisor position, with urgent discussions on shelter needs and community relationships taking center stage. Mike Ingram, the Champaign County Democratic Chair, emphasized the critical need to rebuild relationships with community stakeholders and stressed the importance of the low-barrier shelter during an interview with The News-Gazette.
Ingram shared his vision, stating that if appointed, his immediate focus will be on “rebuilding relationships” not only with the town board and city officials but also with township staff and community members. He pointed out the challenges facing the Strides Shelter, which was established to address urgent housing needs. “The funding that got it started has dwindled,” Ingram remarked, highlighting the implications of reduced American Rescue Plan Act dollars. He warned that without community support, more individuals and families could face homelessness.
Meanwhile, Thomas Yu, the township attorney, confirmed that the board will consider both Ingram and Charlene Murray, the Interim Executive Director of Strides Shelter, for the role during their meeting on January 6, 2024. A third candidate was disqualified due to residency requirements, underscoring the strict criteria for this vital position.
Yu noted that the new supervisor will fill the vacancy left by former Supervisor Kyle Patterson, who resigned in November due to health issues. The urgency for this appointment is amplified, as the deadline for a decision is set for January 17, leaving the board with limited time to act.
Murray, who previously withdrew her application in 2024, now expresses her commitment to stabilizing the shelter and addressing the housing crisis in partnership with the city and the University of Illinois. “This role isn’t about politics,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of vision and leadership for the betterment of vulnerable community members.
Both candidates are expected to address pressing issues such as improving communication, enhancing support for township employees, and ensuring access to essential services for those in need. As the situation develops, community members are encouraged to engage in the conversation about the future of the township and the critical needs of its residents.
Ingram’s and Murray’s proposals showcase a deep understanding of the challenges at hand, making the upcoming board meeting one of the most anticipated events in Champaign’s recent history. Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds.