Ward 7 Alderwoman Diane Marlin says she wants to be become 'the city's biggest cheeleader,' and adopt a positive tone in launching her campaign for mayor.  She admits the fight over property tax exemptions at the city's two hospitals are hurting finances, but also says it's taking up too much of the focus on the city. 

Alderwoman Diane Marlin says the ordinance enables the city to commit its full $95,000 payment for 911 service, but Mayor Laurel Prussing still has the final say.  Marlin says it's just one area where local governments are suffering because of inaction by state lawmakers.

The Urbana City Council Monday night unimously supported new alderman Aaron Ammons, who later was the lone opponent in an initial vote supporting tasers for police.