DISCLAIMER: The opinions expressed in the candidates responses are the sole views of their own. They do not reflect the opinions or views of the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce or its members. The candidate statements below do not imply the expression of any endorsement whatsoever by the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce or its members.
Axe Abdimajid Ahmed
Given the Rochester areas current growth, how would you support economic development and revitalization across the city?
Rochester's growth shouldn't be measured only by cranes. Here's the number under the cranes: three straight years above $1 billion in permit value, while non-Mayo private investment in the DMC district declined six consecutive years. We're growing and concentrating at once. So, first: publish an economic scorecard—openings, closures, vacancies, permit timelines, subsidy dollars, jobs by ward—because you can't fix what you don't measure. Second, housing is workforce: move the ADU and missing-middle package, point TIF at starter homes; businesses can't hire people who can't live here. Third, cut friction: parking minimums, change-of-use triggers that keep storefronts empty, permit reform to Council by day 90, and construction-impact tracking before corridor businesses get damaged, not after. Build boldly—then show the whole city, and every business in it, the return.
A strong relationship between local government and the business community is essential to a thriving economy. How would you foster a strong partnership between the city and the business community, from policy decisions to quality of life?
Practical, not ceremonial. I've built and run a company here; what operators need from city hall is predictability—clear rules, published timelines, no surprises at month nine, and a seat at the table before the barricades go up, not after. I'll publish permit timelines by type, post every city contract above $100,000 within 24 hours, and put plain-English guides on the permits businesses actually use: signage, tenant improvements, outdoor seating, events. I'll stand up a Downtown Activation Table—city, DMC, RDA, Experience Rochester, downtown business owners—monthly, published minutes, real targets: storefront occupancy above 95 percent, foot traffic up 15 percent. Corridor check-ins extend the same to every ward. And daylight: my office's meeting log published weekly, appointments that include people who've made payroll. My promise is a City Hall that's easier to navigate and harder to hide behind.
Molly Dennis
Given the Rochester areas current growth, how would you support economic development and revitalization across the city?
Rochester has a unique economy; six-digit earners next to struggling essential workers. A mayor walks alongside all local businesses, entrepreneurs, and encourages potential investors as I have done as Councilmember.
Our community is fortunate to have Mayo Clinic helping buffer recession; however, Rochester is not a “one horse town.” Existing businesses need priority and a Mayor not afraid to speak up against powerful interests and unfair policy. Unlike other candidates, I have a proven voting record showing my unwavering allegiance to local businesses, historic preservation, recruiting talent, and supporting a strong and diverse economy.
A mayor needs to be curious, a critical thinker, and be a proven data-driven problem solver. As a visionary leader who loves Rochester, I want our economy to thrive. From bus drivers, teachers, and business owners to innovating entrepreneurs, my priority is ensuring residents can afford to live and work here for generations to come.
A strong relationship between local government and the business community is essential to a thriving economy. How would you foster a strong partnership between the city and the business community, from policy decisions to quality of life?
Ethically Rochester's mayor cannot have personal or family financial interests in ANY decisions they advocate for, that’s basic integrity. Our nonpartisan mayor needs to lead without cronyism or political interest.
As I have done as a legislator with collaboration and honesty, I believe businesses need to remain separate from the checks/balances of City Hall. Powerful organizations and outside interests should be held accountable for their fair share and responsible for any impact their growth has on other businesses.
Taxes and fees can crush small businesses. All four years as Councilmember, I voted against high property tax increases (due to current wasteful spending) and lessened red tape for startups. Rochester needs trusted independent experts and compassionate government support to help navigate growing challenges like tech/AI advancements and uncertain markets. As mayor, I'll streamline communication; residents, businesses, and future investors deserve current and accurate information. Transparency is trust and integrity matters.
Dr. Walé Elegbede
Given the Rochester areas current growth, how would you support economic development and revitalization across the city?
Rochester's growth presents an opportunity to strengthen our economy while ensuring every neighborhood shares in its success. As an entrepreneur, I understand firsthand the challenges and opportunities businesses face. I founded a software company that helped transform a manufacturing company into one of America's fastest-growing companies, giving me practical experience driving innovation and scaling a business.
As Mayor, I will introduce a Welcoming Rochester and Comprehensive Economic Development Plan—a citywide strategy to attract investment, support existing businesses, foster entrepreneurship, revitalize commercial corridors, strengthen our workforce, and expand housing and infrastructure. I will work closely with the Chamber, businesses, Destination Medical Center, Mayo Clinic, community organizations, and partners to make Rochester a city where businesses invest, talented people stay, and every neighborhood benefits from economic growth. My goal is to expand our tax base, create high-quality jobs, and ensure Rochester remains one of America's most innovative and welcoming cities.
A strong relationship between local government and the business community is essential to a thriving economy. How would you foster a strong partnership between the city and the business community, from policy decisions to quality of life?
A thriving economy depends on trust, collaboration, and a city government that views businesses as partners in Rochester's success. I created the TEACH Framework—Trust, Empathy, Accountability, Cultural Awareness, and Honest & Inclusive Communication—as part of my doctoral research on culturally responsive leadership in organizational and community settings. My research included leaders from the business community alongside nonprofit, education, government, and community leaders because strong organizations and communities are built by bringing diverse perspectives together. As Mayor, I will foster a transparent and positive relationship with the business community by engaging businesses and the community early in policy discussions, listening to their perspectives, making city government responsive and solutions-oriented, and working with the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce, Destination Medical Center, Mayo Clinic, and community partners to strengthen Rochester's economy, improve quality of life, streamline permitting, reduce unnecessary barriers, and create a more predictable environment for investment and growth.
Dr. Jess Garcia
Given the Rochester areas current growth, how would you support economic development and revitalization across the city?
The biggest economic engine in our city is currently the Destination Medical Center (DMC). Since the mayor has a seat at the table of the DMC Corporation and the DMC is a collaborative between Mayo Clinic, local government, community partners, and the business community, that is one natural way to remain actively involved with one corner of our city’s economic development. Beyond that, I am in favor of supporting equitable economic development efforts that work to improve the lives of the working class and everyday people in Rochester through tri-government (School Board, County, and City governments) cooperation. Furthermore, I would certainly champion business community-lead efforts to urge City Council to support small business owners in ways detailed in the following item, as well as through accessing networking opportunities and obtaining field-related education/training that are more affordable for them.
A strong relationship between local government and the business community is essential to a thriving economy. How would you foster a strong partnership between the city and the business community, from policy decisions to quality of life?
Better partnerships between the business community and local government is an area of need I recognized early in my campaign. I held a listening session for small business owners, have attended a Chamber of Commerce event focused on “linking” leaders and the business industry, and I’ve continued to touch base with small business owners in- and outside downtown Rochester. While policy decisions will come from the City Council, I would be happy to support policies that promote increased quality of life for our business owners and workers. I also want to promote some very clear asks from a community leader and small business owner. Specifically, they want the city to be proactive in their outreach to diverse businesses; support navigation of upgrading things like essential retail infrastructure; and offer clear resources for city mediation when dealing with issues such as complex neighborhood property boundaries, easements, and structural maintenance disputes.
Ayub HajiOmar
Given the Rochester areas current growth, how would you support economic development and revitalization across the city?
Economic development is about creating opportunity for everyone. As mayor, I would continue supporting strategic growth through DMC while ensuring every neighborhood benefits, not just downtown. That means expanding workforce and starter housing, supporting small businesses, investing in infrastructure, and creating vibrant public spaces that attract residents, visitors, and employers alike. I also believe quality of life is an economic development strategy. Safe neighborhoods, parks, arts, walkable streets, and reliable transportation make Rochester more attractive to families and businesses. My goal is to build an economy where entrepreneurs can thrive, young professionals choose to stay, and existing businesses have the confidence to invest in Rochester's future.
A strong relationship between local government and the business community is essential to a thriving economy. How would you foster a strong partnership between the city and the business community, from policy decisions to quality of life?
A strong economy starts with strong relationships. As mayor, I will maintain regular communication with businesses of every size to better understand their challenges and opportunities. I also want to establish a Small Business Office in City Hall to serve as a single point of contact-helping entrepreneurs navigate city processes, connect with resources, and grow in Rochester. Businesses need a city government that listens, is responsive, and provides predictable, transparent decision-making. By working collaboratively with employers, neighborhood businesses, nonprofits, and community leaders, we can create policies that encourage investment, strengthen our workforce, and improve quality of life. When our businesses succeed, Rochester succeeds.
Jerrod Lucker
Given the Rochester areas current growth, how would you support economic development and revitalization across the city?
To handle our rapid growth, I will fight to diversify our economy and strengthen local small businesses. We must make critical investments in infrastructure, while fast-tracking road projects, staggering schedules to avoid gridlock, and ensuring accessible downtown parking so customers can reach our shops. We will provide direct financial relief to businesses hit hard by construction, and partner with our schools to build trade pathways that keep our talented youth at home. Crucially, I will use the mayor's seat on the DMC board to keep small businesses central, ensuring employees have great restaurant and entertainment options while residents keep money circulating locally. We must attract innovative startups, build direct collaboration and referrals between large and small businesses, and showcase local brands globally through digital commerce to draw top talent. Finally, we will champion arts and culture as the heartbeat of our city, driving economic vitality and neighborhood revitalization.
A strong relationship between local government and the business community is essential to a thriving economy. How would you foster a strong partnership between the city and the business community, from policy decisions to quality of life?
As mayor, I will be a champion, advocate, savvy negotiator, and reliable voice who gets things done by showing up and listening. A strong partnership requires a government that prioritizes outreach and communicates effectively with the business community. I will build those bridges while remaining fiercely independent, because I have one boss: the people of Rochester. We must send a clear message that Rochester is a true business-friendly town where local government has your back, cuts red tape, and genuinely wants you to succeed. To attract top talent and diversify our workforce, we must eagerly welcome immigrants and transplants who strengthen our community. We will ensure a high quality of life by fighting for low taxes while expanding affordable housing and childcare. By investing heavily in critical infrastructure, modern walkability, and strong public safety, we create a safe, welcoming home where businesses can confidently invest in our shared future.
Joe Powers
Given the Rochester areas current growth, how would you support economic development and revitalization across the city?
Our community has been revitalizing for more than 50 years. We have a great record of working together to improve our community for all of us and for the millions of patients who come to Rochester for life-saving care.
I will continue to be the tireless supporter of Rochester and our people that I’ve been for over 40 years. We need people who will take a risk and build the amenities we need. If someone is interested in building a fine arts center or an entertainment complex, I’ll bring everyone together to discuss what the community need is and how to get it done.
We need to bring new business here, yes. But we also need to support the people and businesses who are here now. What do they need to grow and expand? How can we help them get through construction?
By leaning on my experiences and relationships, I will make sure we get new projects done.
A strong relationship between local government and the business community is essential to a thriving economy. How would you foster a strong partnership between the city and the business community, from policy decisions to quality of life?
I love this question! For too long, decisions have been getting made at city hall without enough of the valuable advice and counsel from experts in their field.
For example, despite working on the issue for years, no one from the city reached out to the Rochester Sports Foundation to ask their thoughts on a new facility. What we truly needed? What have other similar-sized cities experienced?
And when the Sports Foundation asked to be involved, we were politely ignored. Had the city listened to us the Regional Sports Center project wouldn’t be in the trouble it is.
I think there has been a general reluctance by city staff to let people who truly understand banking, real estate, management, and tourism weigh in on issues. And I think that has made some projects more expensive, take longer, and miss the mark.
I want those people to feel comfortable weighing in on issues. They will make our projects better.
Benjamin Zastrow
Given the Rochester areas current growth, how would you support economic development and revitalization across the city?
Economic development begins with making Rochester a place where businesses of various sizes can confidently invest, hire, and grow. As a small business owner, I know employers need predictable leadership, responsive government, and infrastructure that supports their success.
Growth should strengthen our entire community. That means supporting neighborhood business districts alongside downtown, expanding housing people can afford so employers can attract and retain workers, investing in transportation and public spaces that connect people to jobs, and preserving the character that makes Rochester an attractive place to live and do business.
As Mayor, I'll focus on clear communication, accountability, and long-term planning so businesses have confidence that City Hall is a reliable partner in Rochester's continued growth.
A strong relationship between local government and the business community is essential to a thriving economy. How would you foster a strong partnership between the city and the business community, from policy decisions to quality of life?
Partnership starts with trust, and trust starts with listening. Throughout my years leading the Lowertown Neighborhood Association and serving as chair of a city commission, I've brought residents, businesses, and local government together to solve problems collaboratively.
As Mayor, I will ensure business owners have a seat at the table before major decisions are made, not after. That means regular engagement, transparent communication, and a City Hall culture that values responsiveness and follow-through.
Quality of life and economic success go hand in hand. Safe neighborhoods, attainable housing, vibrant public spaces, and thriving local businesses all reinforce one another. My goal is to attract motivated and capable people and get out of their way. I believe that in doing this, we can help ensure every resident benefits from Rochester's success.