Rochester Man Launches Campaign For 2nd Ward City Council Seat

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - It did not take long for someone to step forward and launch a campaign for the Rochester City Council position being vacated by one-term Second Ward Councilmember Mark Bransford.

A day after Bransford announced his decision to not seek reelection the fall, Tripp Welch announced his candidacy. In a statement issued to the media, Welch describes himself as a values-driven leader, adept strategist, attentive listener, and compassionate neighbor

“When my wife and I moved into Rochester’s 2nd Ward in the summer of 1996 from the Washington DC area, we were immediately struck by the livability and quality of life in Rochester. We found Rochester to be safe, easy to navigate, and had just about everything we wanted – extensive parks and recreation, a welcoming library, and a vibrant community. Although initially intending to stay for only a few years before returning to the east coast, our hearts were captivated by Rochester’s charm, the warmth of the community, and the exceptional quality of life it offers. We put down roots and raised three children.

 

We participated in all that Rochester had to offer and worked hard to enhance it, from yearly participation in Litter Bit Better, to coaching youth soccer to building exhibits for the Children’s Museum. I also served on many community boards, including Child Care Resource and Referral (now Families First of Minnesota), Rochester Art Center, Olmsted Housing and Redevelopment Authority, Rochester Rowing Club, and Rochester Airport. You have seen me out in the community because I believe in giving back and doing what I can to make a difference.

 

The next few years will be exciting for our city as Mayo Clinic invests $5 billion in downtown Rochester, we will need engaged representation to ensure that our neighborhood voices are heard in order to minimize the necessary disruption and maximize the benefits that will come with this significant investment in Rochester. Together, we can continue to make public safety, livability, and community experience top priorities for our city. I am eager to champion the interests and aspirations of Ward 2 residents.”

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The two week filing period for the elected positions that will be on the fall ballot on the 21st. The other Rochester City Council positions up for election this year include the at-large Council President's seat along with the second, fourth, and sixth ward positions.

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