The Geneva City Democratic Committee has unveiled its full slate of endorsed candidates for the upcoming 2025 local elections, aiming to field a diverse and experienced group committed to public service and community development.
The endorsements include a mix of incumbents and newcomers running for city and county positions. In addition to its earlier endorsement of Jim Cecere for mayor, the committee is backing Ahmad Whitfield for reelection as Councilor at Large. Whitfield, CEO of DaddiesDoCare and an active member of several community organizations, said, “I am running again so I can continue to speak, walk, march, and stand for our community.”
Ben Gummoe, a senior engineering manager and recent Geneva transplant, is seeking a seat as City Councilor for Ward 2. “I’m committed to representing the interests of Ward 2 and all members of our community,” he said.
For Ontario County Supervisor seats, the committee endorsed four candidates. Jim Kennedy, seeking reelection in Wards 1 and 2, pledged to continue acting as a “connector” between the city and county. Jan Regan, representing Wards 3 and 4, emphasized her focus on sustainable solutions and county-wide waste management. Esther Dickinson, an attorney and mother of two, is running in Wards 5 and 6 with priorities including affordable housing and environmental safety.
The judicial endorsements feature Bill Hart for Supervising City Court Judge and Leslie Hickey for City Court Judge. Hart, a Geneva native with over 35 years of legal experience, said he is committed to “administering justice fairly and firmly.” Hickey, appointed in 2021, said, “I believe every person deserves to be treated with dignity, impartiality and respect in our Courts.”
Reflecting on the full slate, mayoral candidate Jim Cecere said, “Everyone on this slate is committed to making Geneva a better place.” Committee Chair Jess Farrell added, “We are proud of the candidates who came forward to serve this city that we all love.”
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