Urbana Names New Fire Chief

Urbana Mayor Diane Marlin is pleased to announce that Charles E. Lauss has been selected to lead the Urbana Fire Department as the next Fire Chief.

The selection process began in early May and garnered applicants from across the nation.  All ranks of the Urbana Fire Department were invited to participate and provide feedback throughout the search.    . 

Mayor Marlin noted that her decision was based on a number of factors: “Chief Lauss has a reputation for collaboration and building strong relationships with city administration, elected officials, employees, collective bargaining units, and the community at large.  We have received overwhelming feedback that he is widely respected for his integrity, honesty, humility, and strong work ethic,” Marlin said. “I believe his professionalism, collaborative style, and dedication will make a significant contribution towards the future success of our fire department.

Chief Lauss has served in the fire service for over 30 years, spending much of his career in the Pekin Fire Department where he served in all ranks, including six and a half years as Fire Chief, before retiring.  Most recently, he served the City of Peoria for two years as the Assistant Fire Chief and two years as Fire Chief and Director of the Office of Emergency Management, where he was responsible for over 200 sworn and civilian personnel.  He holds a master’s degree in Leadership with an emphasis in Disaster Preparedness and Executive Fire Service Leadership from Grand Canyon University and is currently working towards completion a Master of Public Administration degree from the same institution. He is also a graduate of the Executive Fire Officer Program through the National Fire Academy.

"I am so very happy, honored, and humbled that I have been given the opportunity to serve the community of Urbana.  I look forward to working alongside the Urbana team,” said Lauss.

The Urbana Fire Chief position has been vacant since the retirement of former Chief Brian Nightlinger in May of this year; James Eggert has been serving as Interim Fire Chief since that time.  

Chief Lauss’s appointment was confirmed at a Special Meeting of the Urbana City Council held on Monday, August 27, 2018. He is slated to begin duties on September 4, 2018.