Harris in line to replace McFadden

Feb. 26, 2019 -- LaShay Harris was endorsed as the Democratic candidate for the Rochester City Council's south district, potentially succeeding Vice President Adam McFadden.

Harris was elected to the Monroe County Legislature in 2015 and represents the 27th District in Rochester.

McFadden ended his bid for re-election after being charged last week in federal court with wire fraud, money laundering and conspiracy to commit both as part of an alleged scheme involving Rochester Housing Charities.

Bello kicks off bid for top county position

Feb. 9, 2019 -- In a long-expected announcement, Monroe County Clerk Adam Bello said that he is running for Monroe County Executive.

Bello, appointed to the role of county clerk in 2016, will take on incumbent Cheryl Dinolfo.

"I am running for County Executive because I believe our community needs a government as good as its people," Bello said in his announcement. "It's time to choose a new way -- one that lifts people up, fosters an environment where every family can grow and thrive. In the coming months I look forward to making the case that we can do better in Monroe County, and that our best days are best ahead."

Sheppard will not run for re-election

Jan. 27, 2019 -- First-term Monroe County Legislator James Sheppard will not run again this fall. His district covers the east side of Rochester and portions of Brighton.

Sheppard, an adjunct professor at St. John Fisher College, served in Rochester Police department for more than 30 years, rising to the rank of chief of police.

Sheppard and his wife June have been primary caregivers to two grandchildren since the death of son-in-law James Morgan in January 2016. Daughter Stephanie has been trying since to establish her career with with the Transportation Security Administration in Virginia.

Clifford will retire from City Council

Jan. 22, 2019 -- City Council member Molly Clifford announced she will not seek a second term representing the northwest district. Fellow council member Elaine Spaull said last week that she would retire when her third term concludes.

Both cited work demands, and an earlier-than-normal June primary in forcing their decision.

Clifford is a partner in Community Health Strategies, which does fire safety and injury prevention training. With her two partners getting ready to retire, Clifford will take on more responsibilities.

Potential replacements for Clifford include Jose Peo, vice president of the Charlotte Community Association, and Bijaya Khadka, founder of the nonprofit House of Refuge.

Spaull to exit City Council at end or current term

Jan. 16, 2019 -- Three-term Rochester City Council member Elaine Spaull will not seek re-election to represent the city's east district.

Spaull, first elected in 2006 and the second-longest-serving member of the council, also is executive director of the Center for Youth. She said she wants to focus solely on the center.

All four district seats on the nine-member, all-Democrat City Council are on the ballot this year.

Early Democratic contenders for Spaull's East District seat include political newcomer and lawyer Michael Geraci, whom Spaull will be supporting, and activist Mary Lupien, who finished just out of the running in the 2017 Democratic primary.