Decatur Names Temporary City Manager and Engages Recruiting Firm for Permanent Search

Concerns have been raised once more regarding the conduct of certain Decatur City Council members, coinciding with their efforts to appoint a new City Manager.

This scrutiny follows the unexpected resignation of Tim Gleason, the previous City Manager, who declared last month that he would vacate his position by October 31.

Updated: Oct 20, 2025 / 08:45 PM CDT

DECATUR, Ill. (WCIA) — The behavior of some members of the Decatur City Council was once again called into question Monday night as city leaders embark on finding a new City Manager.

It comes after the abrupt resignation of former City Manager Tim Gleason. He announced last month that he would step down no later than October 31.

Decatur’s mayor said ‘toxic’ actions from Council Member David Horn contributed to Gleason’s resignation. And on Monday, the City Council voted to unanimously appoint the current Deputy City Manager, Melissa Honas, the new interim City Manager.

But one council member said they shouldn’t even be in this situation in the first place.

“I think the behavior of some Council Members have put us where we are today and I think that’s extremely unfortunate. That behavior does not appear to have changed nor does it appear to be changing anytime in the near future I think for this council to seek a new City Manager right now sets this council and another individual up for failure,” council member Lisa Gregory said.

The Decatur City Council also voted on hiring a recruiting firm to look for a new City Manager.
That motion passed six to one.