The Urbana Historic Preservation Commission voted Monday to designate the First United Methodist Church at 304 South Ray Street as a local historic landmark, citing its gothic revival architecture and long civic role in the community.

Olivia Jovine, Director of Community Development Services, told the commission the application — received and deemed complete Oct. 30 — met multiple nomination criteria and recommended designation. Jovine described the building’s 1927 gothic revival design, noting its limestone bell tower, stained‑glass windows, pointed arches and a second‑floor sanctuary.

Reverend Robert Freeman, the church’s directing pastor, said the congregation has deep historical roots in Champaign County and emphasized the building’s community uses. “We began to work with the city of Urbana planning commission back in 2019,” Freeman said, and he recounted the church’s role as a gathering place, archive holder and partner in programs tied to Jesse Owens and other local institutions.

Commissioners discussed which criteria to include in the findings of fact. Several members recommended dropping criterion f (utilitarian) and folding narrative material from criterion g (archaeological/informational) into criterion a to emphasize religious, civic and social significance rather than archaeological interpretation.

Commissioner Trent moved to approve the nomination citing criteria a, c and e; Commissioner Laura seconded. The commission then took a roll‑call vote. Miss O’Donnell, Mr. Roberts, Mr. Shepherd, Miss Urban, Mr. Weese and Mr. Hayes each voted in the affirmative; Commissioner Kate (project proponent) formally recused herself from discussion and vote. The motion passed with the required majority.

Olivia Jovine said staff will provide an edited recommendation and findings of fact that reflect the commission’s refinements. The designation is effective upon inclusion in the commission’s formal findings; no additional action was taken at the meeting to change property use or impose new requirements beyond those in the local ordinance.

The commission closed the public‑hearing portion of the meeting and continued with monitoring reports and staff updates, including a grant update and the introduction of new Planner II Aymeru Sye.