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JOHNSTOWN - Incumbent Republican Councilman-at-Large Bryan Marcucci will face a challenge from Democrat Francis Caraco in the Nov. 3 general election.

Both men say they have been campaigning since summer, meeting with people throughout the city who would be their constituents.

The term for councilman-at-large is four years, and members of the Common Council earn $4,413 annually.

Marcucci, a retired photographer and former UPS employee, has served as Johnstown's councilman-at-large for about two years. He was appointed after Councilman-at-Large Joseph G. Salamack died.

Marcucci defeated Leon R. Peck in a GOP primary in September, setting up the race with the Democrat.

In a prepared statement, Marcucci said he's "had time to familiarize himself with the workings of the city" and he would "like the opportunity to use what he's learned to work alongside the taxpayers of the city to maintain a level within their means."

In an interview, the 63-year-old Marcucci, of 13 W. Main St., said he would like to "continue keeping the city as strong as possible." He said he would like to try to keep taxes as low as possible while helping people on fixed incomes keep their homes.

"I'd hate to see taxes go up and force people out of their houses," Marcucci said.

The incumbent said he's gained a lot of experience, and anyone calling him looking for answers on city issues will get them.

"I go to the people who have the authority to make that happen," Marcucci said.

Caraco, 51, of 12 E. Montgomery St., is a newcomer to politics.

He has operated Market Street Financial Group, an insurance and financial planning practice at 2 S. Market St., since November 2007.

He said he is motivated to run for mayor because he has many ideas for the years ahead.

"I think because I have a vision, I can see Johnstown in the future 10 to 15 years hence," Caraco said.

Caraco said his job as a financial adviser takes him "up and down the East Coast," and he has had the opportunity to see many cities similar in size to Johnstown.

"I see towns struggling and prosperous," he said. "I'm always curious about what's the difference."

He said he's interested in creating a more vibrant downtown, encouraging development along Main Street from Route 30A to Cayadutta Street. Caraco said a "more functional strip" of development could be created. He also said he has the time and the energy to be councilman-at-large.

He said city officials should build on previous accomplishments such as the Comprehensive Plan.

"I don't believe anybody comes into these things reinventing the wheel," Caraco said. "A lot of good work has already been done."

The lifelong Johnstown resident is president of the Gloversville-Johnstown Kiwanis Club and past treasurer and past president of the Schenectady Kiwanis. He also is a past president of the Schenectady Life Underwriters Association.

"Busy people get things done," he said.

Michael Anich covers Johnstown and Fulton County news. He can be reached at johnstown@leaderherald.com.