Ward 1B Councilor
Raymond Varney Jr.
Age: 61
Rochester res. 61 yrs.
Occupation: mechanical engineer, GE
Public Experience: chair of Utility Advisory Board; Planning Board; City Council; member of Comprehensive Rezoning, Public Safety, Codes and Ordinances and Building Needs committees.

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

Offsetting the burdens of residential growth by expanding the commercial and industrial tax base. We have started to see some progress in this area, but residential development continues at a rapid pace.

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

The most desirable would be high-tech industry with above average employee pay and benefits. These types of industries typically have little impact on city services, and they attract other service businesses.

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

If this project were to proceed I would prefer it not be financed by property taxes. There are many municipal infrastructure projects of higher priority.

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

I supported the addition of staff in this year’s budget, but I would like to see improvements in call response times before considering additional personnel.

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

Continued support of the Opera House, Concerts on the Common and Main Street sponsored events.

-What is your favorite event at the Rochester Fair? 

Photography exhibit.