Burns to Seek Fourth Term as Geneva Mayor

Mayor Kevin Burns announced Tuesday his intention to seek a fourth term as mayor of the city of Geneva.

"The opportunities and challenges to lead Geneva toward a more robust and resilient future for 22,000 residents and more than 1,000 businesses, inspires me to devote four more years in service to the community I've called home for almost 40 years".

In a press release issued Tuesday night, Burns notes that Geneva has earned and sustained a reputation of being a great place to live, learn, work, play and raise a family through collaboration among elected officials and citizen volunteers and professional staff under Burns' leadership.

"A steady hand and unyielding focus on what works for Geneva is central to guiding an organization as complex as our city," Burns said.

For 12 years, Burns has presided over balanced budgets, responsible resource allocation, mutually respectful relationships with other governing bodies and has earned the trust and respect of more than 200 professional staff, the press release said.

During Burns' tenure as mayor, the city has lowered the tax rate, streamlined government operations, achieved efficiencies in service delivery, and fostered an atmosphere of inclusion, transparency, accountability and accessibility.

"As Geneva evolves, it's critical that Geneva's chief executive officer build consensus among all stake holders and advance opportunities that promote a future as bright as our past. A tested leader is necessary to ensure sound financial management and good governance. There is no greater joy, no greater pleasure than making local government work for those who appreciate the services provided by our professional staff."

Burns, 48, is the father of three daughters, Emma, 22, Grace, 20, and Florence, 18.

A 1982 graduate, Burns earned his BA degree from Augustana College (Rock Island) and has worked in the non-profit field for more than 25 years.

SOURCE: Kevin Burns press release