Politics
Rochester Expands Public Forums for 2026 City Races Starting August
Rochester residents gain scheduled access to candidate statements on property taxes and street maintenance through city-hosted events beginning in August.
How we reported this
The Rochester City Clerk launched the Candidate Spotlight Policy on July 1, 2026. The rule requires every declared candidate for mayor and city council to appear at two public forums before the November ballot.
Local elections decide control of the annual operating budget that sets property tax rates and funds road repairs. The policy requires the city to record each session and place the video on the municipal website within 48 hours.
Daily Services and Household Bills
Residents on the east side will hear candidates answer questions about the 2026 street resurfacing list that includes 12 miles of pavement. Water and sewer rates, which the council adjusts each spring, will also appear on the forum agenda. Parents in the Rochester City School District can ask about the share of the general fund directed to classroom staffing.
City budget papers show that property tax revenue supplies 42 percent of the general fund. Candidates must state their position on any proposed increase above the state cap during the required sessions.
Next Steps for Voters
The first forum takes place August 15 at the downtown central library branch. Additional sessions are set for September 12 and October 3. Monroe County election records list more than 140,000 active registered voters inside city limits who can attend or view the recordings.
City staff will compile written summaries of candidate answers and mail one copy to every household that requests it by September 1. The summaries will cover only positions stated at the forums and will carry no commentary from the clerk's office.