The Hornell Republican Committee is proud to highlight the Republican candidates for City offices
From the Hornell Republican Committee,
Mayor: John Buckley
John Buckley is seeking a third term as City Mayor. Under his leadership, the City has flourished with investments in parks, roads and bridges, water and sewer plants, public safety, and the revitalization of downtown. John provides strong and determined, yet empowering leadership across the City. The results speak for themselves as Hornell remains one of the most affordable cities in New York State, while continuing to deliver high-quality services. Mayor Buckley is recognized across the state through his collaboration with members of the State Assembly and Senate, as well as through his work with the New York Conference of Mayors (NYCOM), where he holds an executive committee appointment and often spearheads statewide advocacy efforts that benefit cities and villages across the state including Hornell.

Steuben County Legislator: Dan Warriner
Dan Warriner is seeking his first term as Steuben County Legislator representing the City of Hornell. Warriner has served as 5th Ward Alderman for the past eight years, providing a level-headed and reliable voice for his ward. Fifth Ward residents, don’t despair, you get to vote for Dan Warriner twice! He is eligible to hold both offices simultaneously.
Common Council Candidates – Opposed Races
3rd Ward Alderman: Dr. Joseph McKay
Dr. Joe McKay has nine years of proven experience and service on the Common Council. He serves as Chairman of the Law & Ordinance Committee and Vice Chairman of the Youth and Recreation Committee. Joe is disciplined and goal-oriented, having completed multiple marathons, competed as a professional bodybuilder, and earned a blue belt in Jiu-Jitsu. He brings that same discipline and commitment to representing 3rd Ward residents and has done a fantastic job.
6th Ward Alderwoman: Lita Brown
Lita Brown is seeking a second term as 6th Ward Alderwoman. She is a strong advocate for the residents of the 6th Ward and a familiar, comfortable face through her work with Concern for Youth where she provides support and prevention education throughout several southern tier school districts. Lita is approachable, dependable, and continues to work tirelessly to enhance quality of life throughout the community.
7th Ward Alderman: Kevin Valentine
Kevin Valentine has five years of prior experience serving the 7th Ward on the Common Council. A lifelong Hornell resident, Kevin has dedicated his 20-year career to public safety and currently serves as a sergeant with the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office at the county jail. Kevin is devoted to connecting residents with City departments to resolve concerns quickly and efficiently. Kevin’s practical, hands-on approach and focus on neighborhood safety have earned him the trust of residents throughout the 7th Ward.

Common Council Candidates – Unopposed Races
1st Ward Alderman: David Sutfin
David Sutfin is a lifelong Hornell resident who has spent most of his life on Thacher Street. A proud member of Steuben County SCOPE and father of three daughters raised in Hornell, David is committed to keeping the City a great place to live for current and future generations.
2nd Ward Alderwoman: Christina Hancock
Christina Hancock has served as 2nd Ward Alderwoman since January 2022 and finds helping residents resolve issues to be the most rewarding aspect of her role. Christina also serves on the Law & Ordinance, Audit, and Youth & Recreation Committees, providing a steady and reliable voice for the 2nd Ward. She values open communication with residents and strives to ensure their concerns are addressed quickly and effectively.
4th Ward Alderman: Steve Peck
Steve Peck is seeking a second term as Fourth Ward Alderman. Steve has lived in Hornell for over 20 years, raising his daughter in this community. Steve has been very civic minded, often serving on several boards throughout the community including the St. James Foundation, Kiwanis Club, Hornell YMCA and Hornell Partners for Growth. Steve provides a dedicated voice to residents of the 4th Ward.
8th Ward Alderman: James Bassage
Jim Bassage has served as an alderman for over a decade, providing a consistent and dedicated voice on the Common Council for the 8th Ward. Jim remains committed to improving quality of life and keeping Hornell a great place to live and raise a family. Married with five children, Jim enjoys baseball and reading about the Civil War. He works closely with City departments, particularly Codes, to address and resolve resident concerns.
9th Ward Alderman: Shannon Davis
Shannon Davis is seeking a second term as 9th Ward Alderman. Born and raised in the Hornell Valley, Shannon has a background in the U.S. Army and has served as Director of Facilities for the Hornell City School District for the past 15 years. Shannon provides a passionate and consistent voice for the 9th Ward and continues to focus on improving quality of life for all residents.
Get Out and Vote!
The Hornell Republican Committee encourages all voters to make their voices heard.
Early voting begins Saturday, October 25, and runs 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through November 2. Election Day is Tuesday, November 4, from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Our candidates have worked hard to serve the Hornell community, and we’re committed to continuing that dedication through steady, common-sense leadership that puts the needs of our residents and the future of our city first.