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Urbana Council Delays Vote on Federal Courthouse Naming
Story date: Tuesday, February 14, 2012 from Illinois Public Media News
Urbana’s City Council has delayed a vote on naming the city’s federal courthouse after Champaign County’s first African-American elected official.
There was some support for the measure, but others wanted more information before naming a building for James Burgess, who was elected state’s attorney in 1972. A resolution backing the move was already approved by the Champaign County Board three months ago.
Burgess died in 1997. On Monday night, his son Steve Burgess touted his father’s achievements with the Army in World War II, as well as civic groups before being elected to countywide office.
“He embodied the best and most universal aspect of the American spirit,” Burgess said. “The determination to be a free and equal individual, accepting to arbitrary limitations imposed by society.”
Alderwoman Diane Marlin questions how the proposal got to this point, since Urbana doesn’t even have honorary streets named for people.
Alderman Dennis Roberts said he wants to see more support from the African-American community before voting on it.
“So far, I’ve had no other individual of African-American background come forward and say, ‘we sure would like to have this happen,” Roberts said. “So far, it’s pretty much been white individuals’ choice. And I’d like to hear the voice of the community who we’re apparently trying to honor.”
Alderman Charlie Smyth said he likes the fact Burgess is someone from recent history with a direct impact on the region, while Eric Jakobsson said he cannot think of anyone who’d been better connected with the justice system in Central Illinois.
But the ultimate decision lies with federal lawmakers. U.S. Senator Dick Durbin’s spokeswoman said Monday the Democrat needs to consult with GOP junior senator Mark Kirk before legislation can go before the Senate.
A spokesman for Congressman Tim Johnson said the Republican is reviewing the proposal.
