The Urbana City Council can take action in one of two ways: by ordinance or resolution.
The City Council passes an ordinance to enact regulations of a general and permanent nature, enforceable as local law. Ordinances usually amend, repeal, or supplement the Municipal Code; provide zoning specifications; or appropriate money for specific purposes.
A resolution is a formal expression of opinion or intention of the City Council on some matter of a temporary or advisory nature, or to handle administrative business.
You can view City Ordinances and Resolutions in the City Clerk document archive.