Candidate claims are fake news

A new phrase has become part of our vocabulary; it's called "fake news." The problem with fake news is the difficulty discerning what is fact and what is fiction. Unfortunately, "fake news" has seeped into the mayoral race in Geneva.

The most recent statement appeared on Mr. Simonian's glossy mailer - "current or former aldermen supporting the current mayor 0." That's an untrue statement.

Because I was disturbed with his portrayal of the lack of support of our current mayor, Kevin Burns, I decided to go public with my support for Kevin Burns. I served on city council from 2001-2013 representing Geneva's 1st Ward. During my term, I never experienced or heard Mayor Kevin Burns interfering with any decision made by a City of Geneva Department Head. I believe Mayor Burns has and always will allow department heads to run their own departments with assistance and supervision by the City Administrator. That's the way city business should be conducted. I believe Mayor Burn's opponent will attempt to control any city department if a citizens' concern arises. The stakes can be costly if the Mayor becomes involved in daily decisions made by department heads.

Another statement Mr. Simonian made appeared on his first glossy mailer; it too was also inaccurate or "fake news." He stated "donate entire mayor's salary back to taxpayers or Geneva charities (approx. $120,000)." How does Mr. Simonian arrive at the figure of $120,000 that he would save taxpayers when the Mayor currently receives an annual stipend of approximately $22,000? If calculated over four years, the amount would be $88,000. More "fake news."

Mayor Burns has been a Mayor for all of the citizens of Geneva, both young and older. I along with other civic leaders endorse Kevin Burns for Mayor of Geneva.

Sam Hill

Geneva