Ward 1A candidate
Brian LaBranche
Age: 40,
Rochester res. 37 yrs.
Occupation: self-employed owner of Trinkets and Treasures
Public Experience: Rochester Main Street Board of Directors; Rochester Main Street Economic Restructuring Comm.; former member of Rochester Economic Development Comm.

-If elected, what is the top goal you would like to see accomplished?

Continued economic development with projects such as the growth of the Route 11 corridor, the proposed Route 11 loop road, and the revitalization of Rochester Main Street.

-What kinds of new businesses would you like to see in Rochester? 

I would like to ultimately see more industry in Rochester, such as when Cabletron was in Rochester. For service business, I would like more big name restaurants and, downtown, more specialty type shops.

-How much do you think the city should invest in the River walk project, to connect the northern and southern sections of the city? 

I don’t think that the city should spend any money on the Riverwalk. If the Riverwalk can be done with private money and grants, then I think it’s a great idea. I am concerned about upkeep and vandalism that other communities have had with similar river walks and hope that maintenance and upkeep is not forgotten after the project is complete.

-Would you support a request from the Police Department to add more fulltime officers to its staff?

I would like to first analyze how the officers spend their time before adding more officers. Police response times in Rochester have been identified as a major concern. I would be in support of the Council working with the Police Commission to better understand the needs of the city.

-What would you do to promote the arts in Rochester and support the city’s growing artistic community?   

The city needs to offer more affordable housing and more affordable studio space to promote the continued growth of the arts in Rochester. The artistic community is an important part of Rochester’s growth.

-What is your favorite event at the Rochester Fair? 

I love everything at the Rochester Fair. I look forward to it every year. The food, rides, exhibits, games and meeting up with old friends. But, my favorite thing about the fair is the harness racing.