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Five candidates running in the City of Gaithersburg's 2009 elections have filed their first two campaign finance reports for the season.

The reports, submitted to City Attorney Lynn Board on Sept. 21 and Oct. 5, should be posted on the city's Web site at www.gaithersburgmd.gov, a new practice following the 2007 city elections, when residents filed complaints calling for better finance practices and more transparency.

The Oct. 5 reports will appear online by 5 p.m. today, said city spokeswoman Britta Monaco. The Sept. 21 reports are posted.

Councilman Michael A. Sesma, a West Riding resident, reported the most in initial contributions — $1,405.84— including $225 in in-kind donations from a business owned by Councilman Jud Ashman and two cash donations totaling $450 from Councilwoman Cathy Drzyzgula and her husband, Robert Drzyzgula. Sesma reported $1,485.95 in expenses, including $910.95 on campaign materials and $575 in in-kind donations.

Mayor Sidney A. Katz reported $300 in contributions from residents and $181.22 in receipts.

His opponent Richard Koch, a Kentlands resident and regional real estate developer, reported $894.93 in contributions. Koch donated $500 to his own campaign and loaned himself $394.93, according to city records, then used the money to pay for city election fees and promotional materials.

Thomas S. Rowse, a Deer Park resident, hoping to oust one of the two for a spot on the council, reported $55 in receipts and no expenses.

Councilman Henry F. Marraffa Jr., who lives in West Riding, reported no contributions and no expenses.

The next filing deadlines are Oct. 19 and Oct. 26.

Fundraising in Gaithersburg is a stark contrast to Rockville's elections, where City Councilwoman Phyllis R. Marcuccio has raised $13,216 in her bid to unseat Mayor Susan R. Hoffmann, who raised $6,050 in the early months of her campaign, according to finance reports released Friday. Three council candidates have raised more than $3,000 each, three have raised more than $2,000 each, one candidate has raised more than $1,000, and three others have raised less than $1,000. Two candidates are running for mayor. Ten candidates, including two incumbents, are seeking four seats on the city council.

Staff Writer Nathan Carrick contributed to this report.