Rochester City Councilmember to Not Seek Second Term

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News)- A member of the Rochester City Council will not be seeking a second term.

See Also: No Second Term for Rochester City Council President

He says he made the decision not to run again after “thoughtful consideration.” He’s the second member of the current city council this year to announce the intention not to seek a second term in office.

The announcement means the residents of western Rochester ward will have a new representative on the city council following this year’s election.

Rochester City Councilmember Mark Bransford Plans to Not Seek 2nd Term

Councilmember Mark Bransford announced he will not seek reelection Wednesday night. His announcement says in part, “It’s been an incredible experience to serve Ward 2 and the city of Rochester. I’m proud to be a voice of the people and a staunch advocate for neighborhood integrity.”

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He said he’s proud of playing a role in putting the voter-approved sales tax extension on last year’s ballot that paved the way to fund the construction of a regional sports complex and championing historic preservation in the downtown.

Bransford’s full announcement is available below:

After thoughtful consideration I’ve decided to step down from city council. It’s been an incredible experience to serve Ward 2 and the city of Rochester. I’m proud to be a voice of the people and a staunch advocate for neighborhood integrity. I’m gratified to have played a role in Rochester becoming a premiere sports destination via the regional sports complex, which will spur growth and sorely needed economic diversity. I’m equally proud of championing historic preservation – particularly the downtown district, Soldiers Field, and Silver Lake Park. I step down knowing these emblematic symbols of our city’s rich history are protected for future generations to enjoy. I’m gratified and humbled to be a city leader, especially through the significant change we’ve experienced in the past 4 years. Rochester’s future is bright. What an honor to have participated in helping Rochester continue to move forward, grow, and evolve.
-Rochester City Councilmember Mark Bransford

Bransford won the second ward seat for the Rochester City Council in the 2020 election. His announcement is the latest in a series of announcements that sets the table for a shakeup in Rochester’s local government.

Kim David/TSM

Last month Rochester City Council President Brooke Carlson announced her intention to not seek reelection.

Earlier this year Ward 5 Rochester City Councilmember Shaun Palmer and Rochester Planning and Zoning Commission Chair Randy Schubring announced their intentions to run for the Council President seat.

Sheila Kiscaden, who represents the sixth district on the Olmsted County Board of Commissioners, recently announced she plans to retire after her term expires.

Minnesota’s official local office camping filing window opens on May 21. Election Day 2024 is Nov. 5.