City of Decatur announces hire of Deputy City Manager

Dr. ShamRA Robinson

    The City of Decatur is announcing the hire of ShamRA Robinson as Deputy City Manager.
     Dr. ShamRA Robinson is a Peoria, IL native and comes to Decatur after serving as the Director of Community Engagement and Public Relations for the Greater Peoria transportation district. She has more than 22 years of experience in local government.
     “We are excited to fill an important leadership role by hiring ShamRA as Deputy City Manager. Her experience stood out to us, and I am eager to watch the immediate impact she’ll have on the community,” said Decatur City Manager Melissa Hon. “I am confident her unique vision and skillset will complement and enhance the momentum we have going in Decatur.”
     Dr. Robinson earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration, a master’s degree, and a PhD in organizational leadership (psychology) from Columbia International University. Throughout her career, she has led initiatives focused on workforce, community, and economic development, managed a community-wide 311-style service system, overseen elements of public transportation, including fixed-route operations and paratransit service, customer service, and directed strategic planning efforts.
     “I am excited to bring my collaborative leadership style and community-centered perspective to Decatur,“ said Robinson. “I look forward to partnering with city leaders, staff, and residents to advance the city’s continued progress.”
     Dr. Robinson will start her new position on Monday, July 27, 2026. Her annual salary will be $182,100.