The City of Centralia is located in south central Illinois, and is home to more than 12,000 people according to the 2020 US Census. Centralia was formed in 1853 by the Illinois Central Railroad (from which it derives its name as the center of the rail system in Illinois). The City was incorporated in 1859. The community was built on agriculture, railroad, coal and oil and is uniquely located within four counties – Clinton, Marion, Jefferson and Washington.
The Mission of the City of Centralia is to improve the quality of life of citizens in an efficient, effective and progressive manner, consistent with the rule of law and based upon the guiding principles of fairness, respect, compassion and honesty.