Geneva City Administrator Of 9 Years Set To Retire

GENEVA, IL — After nine years leading Geneva's government operations, City Administrator Stephanie Dawkins is set to retire.

Dawkins, who has worked for the City of Geneva for 17 years, will retire effective Aug. 15. She took over the role in 2016 after serving as assistant city administrator and director of administrative services for eight years.

Under Dawkins' leadership, the equalized assessed valuation in Geneva increased by almost 52 percent from a 2015 low, the city's bond rating was upgraded to Aa1 — the second highest investment grade on the bond rating scale — and general fund reserves increased from covering less than one month of operations to more than six months, according to a news release.

"It has been a deeply fulfilling experience to contribute to our shared mission of creating a place where people are excited to live, work and play," Dawkins said in a statement. "Working alongside such committed colleagues has been a true honor, and I am grateful for the support, collaboration, and camaraderie we have shared. Over the years, I have witnessed and been a part of significant challenges and achievements within the City. These accomplishments are a testament to the collective dedication of our team."

Mayor Kevin Burns credited Dawkins for helping the city achieve its goals and build necessary connections.

"As chief administrative officer, Ms. Dawkins demonstrated unwavering professionalism, provided a steady hand to help the City achieve financial strength and business growth, fidelity to processes, elevated relationships with our governing partners and helped steer Geneva into a new era of potential and promise," the mayor said in a statement.