URBANA, IL (Chambana Today) — The City of Urbana has announced the appointment of Vince Gustafson as its new public works director.

Gustafson had been serving as interim director and was formally appointed during a mayoral appointment at a meeting of the Urbana City Council Monday night.

Urbana Mayor DeShawn Williams praised Gustafson’s leadership during his time in the interim role, calling it a challenging position that required adaptability and collaboration.

“I have appreciated his approach, his openness to change, and his willingness to stretch beyond what he was comfortable with,” Williams said. “He has done everything I have asked him to do in this short period of time as the interim director.”

Williams also highlighted Gustafson’s efforts to build connections within the department, saying his ability to bridge gaps at Urbana Public Works made him well-suited for the permanent role.

Gustafson has worked for the City of Urbana since 2004. He began his career as a building maintenance worker and has held several leadership positions over the years, including facilities supervisor, public facilities manager, and deputy public works director for operations. He was appointed interim director in June 2025.

Gustafson holds a bachelor’s degree in forestry from the University of Illinois.