Seven candidates backed by the town of Ellicott Democrats have announced their candidacy for office.

TOWN SUPERVISOR

Todd Beckerink has announced his candidacy for Ellicott town supervisor.

Beckerink served on the Falconer School Board for 19 years. He’s currently the school’s safety advisor.

He served as a part-time sheriff’s deputy in Chautauqua County; worked on the Buffalo Bills detail with the Erie County Sheriff’s Office; and contributed as an investigator for the District Attorney’s office and as a member of the County Forensic Team.

“Leadership is rooted in experience, and shaped by service,” Beckerink said. “My candidacy is the trusted choice for a safer, smarter town of Ellicott.”

Now retired from the Ellicott Police Department, Beckerink seeks to bring his experience and leadership skills to the forefront as the next town supervisor.

“Preserving excellence, stabilizing costs. That’s my commitment to the residents of Ellicott,” he said.

Beckerink said he is ready to bring his knowledge, experience and leadership to the supervisor position.

WARD 1

James Rensel is running for Ward 1 on the Ellicott Town Board.

“I am thrilled to officially announce my candidacy for Ellicott’s Ward 1 Town Council,” Rensel said. “I’m deeply committed to our community and intend to bring greater transparency, increased safety, and stronger fiscal responsibility to our town government.”

Rensel currently serves as a security manager at UPMC and performing court security duties with the Sheriff’s Office. Previously, he worked as a school safety and security officer in Jamestown; a behavior intervention coordinator at Gustavus Adolphus Learning Center; the Erie County Sheriff’s Office for Buffalo Bills security; and a retired lieutenant of the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office.

Rensel also served as a trustee and mayor for the village of Falconer and as the president of the Falconer Fire Department. He has a degree in criminal jusitce from SUNY Buffalo

“With a journey deeply rooted in service and security, and a commitment to openness and accountability, I am eager to serve the community I love,” Rensel said. “Together, we can enhance safety, promote growth, and build a truly transparent government for the people of Ellicott.”

WARD 2

David LaMantia has announced his candidacy for Ward 2 on the Ellicott Town Board.

“I’ve spent ’50 years knowing the business of being in business,’ and I am committed to bringing that same level of dedication and integrity to serve the town of Ellicott,” LaMantia said. “I believe in transparent, accountable governance.”

LaMantia has a degree in building design from SUNY Alfred; his career includes 50 years in construction business and management.

In addition to his professional experience, LaMantia has also been an active community servant. He has served on the board of directors for both the Regional Youth Ballet and the Chautauqua County Fund for the Arts. As a soccer association sponsor and the cubmaster for Celeron Pack 177 from 1997 to 2003, LaMantia has demonstrated a commitment to youth development.

“I bring a lifetime of community service, from boardrooms to soccer fields!” LaMantia said.

WARD 3

Steven Cybart, a seasoned veteran and retired Ellicott police officer, announced his candidacy for Ward 3 on the Ellicott Town Board.

Cybart served as a captain in the U.S. Army for over 21 years, earning several distinguished awards for his service, including the Good Conduct Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, Primary NCO Academy Ribbon, National Defense Ribbon with Oak Leaf Cluster, and Ribbons for Long & Faithful Service at 5-, 10, 15, and 20-year milestones. A Ground Zero first responder during 9/11, he was awarded the NYS Defense of Liberty.

Upon retirement from the U.S. Army, Cybart continued to serve his community as an Ellicott Police Officer. During his tenure, he specialized in juvenile cases.

Cybart holds a bachelor’s degree from SUNY Fredonia.

“I am running for the Town Council to ensure that the voices of Ellicott Ward 3 are heard and respected,” Cybart said. “I’ve spent my life serving our country and community, and I’m ready to continue that service in a new capacity. Together, we can make a real difference.”

WARD 4

Daniel McNeill announced his candidacy for Ward 4 on the Ellicott Town Board.

McNeill is a lifetime resident of Chautauqua County and active community member. With his wife, Kaitlin, they have built a life together in the community they both love.

“An independent voice, and a dedicated public servant who will stand up for what is right for our community,” McNeill said.

McNeill is as a social studies teacher at Falconer Central School and is the Chautauqua County program coordinator for the Summer Youth Work Program.

McNeill holds a Master of Science degree in curriculum and instruction inclusive education.

He is a registered Independent endorsed by the Democratic Party.

“I encourage you to consider your vote not as a choice of political affiliation or ideology, but rather a choice in the confidence you have in appointing competent leadership,” McNeill said.

TOWN JUSTICE

Marilyn Gerace is seeking re-election as an Ellicott town justice.

With nearly 32 years of service, Gerace said she remains committed to serving as town justice.

“I wish to extend my heartfelt gratitude to those who showed support and thank the over 325 Ellicott residents who signed the petition against the abolishment of the town justice position in the Ellicott Town Court,” Gerace said. “The collective voice of our community, alongside a resounding opposition from the legal sector, prompted the Ellicott Town Board to rescind their previous resolution.”

At Jamestown Community College, Gerace said is currently employed as a dean of the Social Science and Business Division and director of the Criminal Justice and Public Safety Program.

Gerace helped coordiante the centralized arraignment program at the Chautauqua County Jail, showcasing her dedication and leadership in supporting judicial initiatives and programs.

“Your unwavering support has been my cornerstone,” she said. “As we move forward, I seek your continued trust and support on election day.”

TOWN CLERK

Adrienne Swanson has announced her candidacy for Ellicott town clerk.

Swanson has worked as a National Comedy Center operation supervisor and as a legal assistant at the Chautauqua Region Law Center.

She also has served as a plan room coordinator at Builders Exchange — Southern Tier; a customer service representative at Abers Acers; and as a central service technician and operating room attendant at WCA.

“The people of Ellicott deserve a town clerk who is not just efficient and knowledgeable but also unwaveringly honest,” Swanson said. “I am fully committed to bringing transparency, legal integrity, and responsible leadership to the office.”