GENEVA, N.Y. — The small city of Geneva is getting some big attention this election season. The race for mayor is unique this year. 

Democratic incumbent Mayor Steve Valentino received the endorsement of the Republican committee. 

The city’s Democratic committee instead backed City Councilor Jan Regan. She supports Valentino’s decision to run with Republican support, but questions why a primary election was needed. 

"Obviously, what he’s trying to do is be the only candidate under the Dem line and the Republican line. He’d be the only name there," said Regan. "So, there’s no choice for Genevans.”

Valentino defends his choice, adding that he still had plenty of Democratic support. 

“It was a committee of 17 people, the majority didn’t back me," said Valentino. "Going out and getting signatures, I got 154, that told me I’d have momentum with democratic voters moving forward."

This election comes after a time of division within Geneva City Hall. 

City council meetings were filled with conflict and personal attacks. 

It’s something both candidates agree needs to be changed. 

"A little bit more focused on getting a council that works together a little bit better," said Valentino. "In November, I'm looking forward to a referendum. I put forward a local law to do staggered terms, so hopefully that passes so we don't have a clean sweep of people." 

“It sounds so basic, I’ll bring civil meetings to council, but it’s the foundation you need to move forward. So that’d be my starting point," said Regan. "There's plenty of issues to address, but we can't do it if we're not able to speak with each other."

That’s one of Regan’s campaign goals if elected: Create a more open and collaborative city government. It’s something she felt was missing during her time on city council. 

“It’s hard to get a meeting and dig in when there’s so many questions to be asked and discussions to be had. Votes would get put off and then you’re back to square one. I would hold work sessions," Regan explained. 

Valentino feels he has unfinished business from his first term — business that includes boosting economic development in Geneva. 

"We've got a lot of interest. I talked with the city manager yesterday and we're amazed at the interest of people coming into the city of Geneva looking for opportunities to develop in our city," said Valentino. 

As primary day gets closer, both candidates are hoping for a last-minute push at the polls.