Burns announces bid for 7th term as Geneva mayor

Geneva Mayor Kevin Burns formally announced his intention to seek a seventh term in the April 1 consolidated election.

Burns has been mayor for 24 years, first elected in 2001. He is seeking reelection “to ensure that Geneva’s progress is continued, our promise is attained and our potential is realized.”

“My passion and energy to serve is as strong as ever,” Burns said in a news release. “I welcome the responsibility and privilege of helping articulate, advance and achieve the success Geneva expects and deserves.”

As mayor, has Burns presided over 24 consecutive balanced budgets, increased the city’s cash reserves, increased the city’s bond rating to Aa1 – the highest bond rating for non-home rule communities – reduced the city’s tax rate to .477% of residents’ property bills, which is the lowest percentage in 44 years, according to the release.

The city also realized approval of the South East Master Plan Development, diversified Geneva’s housing stock, secured funding for the reconstruction of the East State Street Corridor – which will begin this spring – increased the city’s renewable energy portfolio to more than 25%, and helped cultivate a more welcoming and belonging community for all, according to the release.

“My involvement in all things Geneva is authentic, unmatched and reflects the importance of participating, celebrating, preserving and promoting what makes Geneva special and strengthens our exceptional brand,” Burns said in the release. “Being well informed and experienced in the myriad of local, state and federal laws that affect Geneva, safeguards that our community is governed well and positioned for success.”

The city’s core principles are in its 2030 Strategic Plan. The Strategic Plan Advisory Committee created it over a 12-month period, with input from more than 1,700 citizens and business leaders, according to the release.

The plan “clearly identifies the direction for Geneva to follow over the next five years – strong governance, informing and engaging with citizenry and business leaders, purposeful growth and economic vitality, safe, active and welcoming community, environmental stewardship and quality infrastructure and city services,” Burns said in the release.

“As we continue to enhance and elevate the promise of Geneva, our community deserves a leader who is involved, informed and inspired to help steer our community forward consistent with the 2030 Strategic Plan/s goals and objectives,” Burns said in the release.

A 50-year resident of Geneva and a 1982 graduate of Geneva High School, Burns previously served on the Library Board, Historic Preservation Commission, the Planning and Zoning Commission and on the City Council as an alderperson before being elected mayor.

A non-profit professional throughout his professional career, Burns has held executive leadership positions in national health organizations, Olympic and Paralympic sports, Special Olympics, higher education, social services and the energy efficiency and sustainability fields, according to the release.

Karsten Pawlik, vice president of operations at Alpine Demolition Services LLC, is challenging Burns for mayor.