URBANA, Ill. (Chambana Today) — Mayor DeShawn Williams has announced the appointment of Tal Prendergast as Interim Fire Chief for the City of Urbana. The appointment was approved during a special City Council meeting on December 8, 2025, and will run through a term ending on or before June 5, 2026.

Prendergast, an Urbana native and graduate of Urbana High School, brings an impressive 29 years of experience in the fire service. He has served with the Urbana Fire Department for 17 years, the Danville Fire Department for five years, and the University of Illinois Fire Service Institute for 22 years, all within Illinois.

“I am confident that Tal’s vast experience and leadership will ensure the continued safety and success of our fire department,” said Mayor Williams. “His commitment to public safety and his deep roots in our community make him an ideal fit for this role.”

For more information about the City of Urbana, visit UrbanaIL.gov.