Elected officials will look to further economic development and education.

The Lilac City has been making a coordinated effort in recent years to revitalize its downtown, build the local economy and enhance its image as a desirable place to live and visit. Come Tuesday, Nov. 8, voters will choose the next mayor and city councilors to carry this momentum forward.

Rochester has six City Council wards, each with two seats, plus the mayor. There are 10 contested races in the upcoming election, including the mayoral race between incumbent T. J. Jean and newcomer Dennis Hancock. Only three candidates are running unopposed: Raymond Varney for Ward 1, Seat B; David Walker for Ward 4, Seat A; and Stephen Hervey for Ward 6, Seat A. All three are incumbents.

Remarkably, all 13 of the city’s incumbents are running for reelection, while 11 challengers have stepped forward.

The city has been engaged in ongoing efforts to spark economic development in the Granite State Business Park and other industrial parks, as well as along the Route 11 corridor. They’ve also been working to draw new businesses and restaurants downtown and elevate the city’s potential as a tourist destination.

Officials are currently pursuing the city’s first comprehensive rezoning effort in 25 years. The council could finalize a new zoning ordinance as early as December, with the aims of enhancing land and building values, encouraging high quality housing, revitalizing the downtown, fostering economic development and conserving resources. But the project has proven controversial, with a couple of residents even threatening legal action against the city if the process goes forward.

Meanwhile, Rochester has established a new early education task force to improve the city’s preschool system, and the School Board and superintendent are considering a proposal to transform Maple Street School into the state’s first “magnet school,” which would feature a longer school year and a specific academic focus.

Also on the ballot on Nov. 8 is a charter amendment that would repeal the city’s three-member Police Commission. Supporters of the amendment say the commission is outdated and unnecessary under the city manager form of government. Opponents say the commission serves a valuable function, helping to oversee the Police Department’s budget while acting as a liaison to the city.

Wyatt Art Studios opened in downtown Rochester this summer, augmenting an arts scene that already boasted establishments like the Rochester Opera House, Artstream and the Franklin Gallery, among others. The city recently established an Arts and Culture Commission to promote the arts in Rochester, and Art Esprit has arranged several public art projects over the last few summers. But there’s debate among candidates over how much of a role, if any, the council should play in fostering the arts.

Like every other community, Rochester will also face continual changes as it looks to stabilize its tax rate and maintain services during the ongoing economic slump, when budgets remain tight across the board.

A number of candidates declined or were unable to take part in this survey (see editor's note below), including mayoral candidate Dennis Hancock; Ward 1, Seat A incumbent Brian LaBranche; Ward 2, Seat A candidate Larry Spector; Ward 2, Seat B incumbent Sandra Keans; Ward 3, Seat A candidate Gregory Jeanson; Ward 3, Seat B candidate Eric Sirles; Ward 4, Seat A incumbent David Walker; Ward 4, Seat B incumbent Geoff Hamann; Ward 5, Seat A incumbent Ralph Torr; Ward 5, Seat B incumbent Alan Reed-Erickson; and Ward 6, Seat A incumbent Stephen Hervey.

MAYOR

Mayor TJ Jean, age 33

occupation: health care administration
years living in Rochester:  33
public service experience: current mayor, election official for 13 years, member of Rochester Rotary Club, Knights of Columbus, and board member with Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce

What do you think is the most positive change or development to take place in Rochester over the last two years, and what do you think is the most negative change/development? Rochester has remained focused on economic development during these difficult economic times. Over the last two years, we have seen very positive growth in the Granite State Business Park and have positive announcements coming in the next several months. Additionally, we have made tremendous progress on the Route 11 corridor. The most negative impact is the loss of Thompson/Center Arms to Massachusetts. Many quality jobs were lost as a result of their decision to relocate.

If elected, what would be your top priority for the city over the next two years? My top priority is expanding our commercial tax base and bringing jobs to Rochester. This is the highest priority for the City Council in order to keep Rochester affordable to our residents. I am thankful for the council’s support of this goal to date. We are making tremendous progress behind the scenes and I look forward to very positive announcements in the near future.

There’s a new early education task force in Rochester and a proposed magnet school. What do you think can be done to enhance public education in Rochester? I commend the School Board for constantly looking to improve our students’ education. The proposed magnet school is a great concept that will offer students in our district the option for an enhanced educational experience. We must continue to educate our students so they are competitive in the global marketplace. Education today is vastly different from 10, 20 or 30 years ago. As such, we must be willing to adapt our educational approach accordingly.

What can be done to boost economic development in the city’s industrial parks and downtown? The City Council has taken many steps to boost economic development in our industrial parks. Specifically, we have created a tax increment financing district for the Granite State Business Park. This demonstrates our commitment to funding public infrastructure improvements that will attract industrial growth. Albany International has relocated its corporate headquarters to the Granite State Business Park and is already planning expansions.

Are you in favor of abolishing the Rochester Police Commission? Yes. The Police Commission served a vital role under a strong mayor form of government. However, I no longer see the benefit of the Police Commission in our current council/manager form of government. The city manager and council can provide the appropriate oversight similar to all other departments of the city.

If elected, what would you do to foster the arts in Rochester? I would continue my strong support of the arts. We are very fortunate to have dedicated volunteers and artisans living, working and operating businesses in Rochester. The City Council must continue to support their efforts to ensure they are successful. The revitalization of our downtown district has been largely dependent on the arts. The Rochester Opera House has been a cornerstone for the arts and I hope we will continue to support this magnificent theater.

WARD 1, SEAT A

Brian Albertelli, age 27

occupation: process tech at Cambridgetool & MFG
years living in Rochester: 13
public service experience: N/A

What do you think is the most positive change or development to take place in Rochester over the last two years, and what do you think is the most negative change/development? The new TIF district is a step in the right direction and shows promise for bringing in new business. The most negative is the colossal waste of taxpayer money that went to the “NSP” program in Rochester. Taxpayers paid $723,000 to renovate a home on Lafayette Street and we sold it for $189,000. We have four more houses yet to be sold at a huge loss. I do not distinguish between federal, state or local tax dollars when it comes to wasting money.

If elected, what would be your top priority for the city over the next two years? Bringing business to Rochester. I also plan to be a staunch taxpayer advocate.

There’s a new early education task force in Rochester and a proposed magnet school. What do you think can be done to enhance public education in Rochester? We need people on the School Board who are willing to hold the school administration accountable for its failures. According to city-data.com, Rochester ranks 130th out of 160 cities in N.H., and that should not stand. I will suggest we ask a representative of the School Board to speak on a quarterly basis during a regular council meeting, to provide us with a progress report on what they are doing to improve the educational system.

What can be done to boost economic development in the city’s industrial parks and downtown? We must reduce the burdensome ordinances and regulations on downtown businesses and find a balance of preserving the city’s rich history while allowing for modernization. We also need to improve the traffic pattern downtown and find opportunities for parking. We need to continue with necessary infrastructure and create an environment that will entice business. Businesses will look at poverty rate, crime stats, education and other key areas when deciding to start a business. We need to improve on all of the above.

Are you in favor of abolishing the Rochester Police Commission? Yes

If elected, what would you do to foster the arts in Rochester? I will leave fostering the arts to the private sector.

WARD 1, SEAT B

Raymond Varney, age 65

occupation: engineering manager, GE
years living in Rochester: 60
public service experience: 5 years Planning Board, 5 years City Council, last 2 as deputy mayor

What do you think is the most positive change or development to take place in Rochester over the last two years, and what do you think is the most negative change/development? Positive: Creation of Granite Ridge Development District along Route 11 to facilitate commercial development and expansion of the Airport Industrial Park. Negative: The state Legislature has downshifted substantial costs to the local level. Continued increases in health care costs are a burden to business and to city government.

If elected, what would be your top priority for the city over the next two years? Continue my efforts to reduce the cost of essential city services, continue to invest in infrastructure and focus on commercial and industrial development.

There’s a new early education task force in Rochester and a proposed magnet school. What do you think can be done to enhance public education in Rochester? We should employ and reward the best and the brightest educators and provide the necessary funding to compete in a global economy. Performance-based rewards should replace the present system of rewarding longevity.  

What can be done to boost economic development in the city’s industrial parks and downtown? Invest in infrastructure, which we have done and will continue to do. The present planning and approval process needs replacement with a process that doesn’t include unnecessary bureaucratic impediments.

Are you in favor of abolishing the Rochester Police Commission? Yes. The Police Commission serves no useful purpose. On two occasions during the recent recession the commission used funding intended to hire patrol officers to give raises to the command staff. One commissioner revealed privileged and private personnel information at a televised City Council meeting.

If elected, what would you do to foster the arts in Rochester? I support the Rochester Opera House and the recently created Arts and Culture Commission.

WARD 2, SEAT A

Donald Posman, age 57

years living in Rochester: 10-plus
occupation: employee of Ricci Lumber
public service experience: none

What do you think is the most positive change or development to take place in Rochester over the last two years, and what do you think is the most negative change/development?

Some new businesses have come into town, a great help to the tax base, and there are new homes sprouting up close by. The negative is that legitimate business always seems to be going to surrounding towns. A lot of businesses that are coming in don’t draw a wide variety of people. Also, I see tax dollars being spent in the wrong ways, dollars that could have been spent improving roads, cleaning up downtown and going to our schools.

If elected, what would be your top priority for the city over the next two years?

My priority for the next few years is to help Rochester grow into a town that people want to move into, where businesses want to move because there is a growing population, a growing town, not a shell of what this town was years ago.

There’s a new early education task force in Rochester and a proposed magnet school. What do you think can be done to enhance public education in Rochester?

My nephew graduated from Spaulding High, third in his class. He said he got a good education but mentioned there were some college prep courses that weren’t offered. It would have been great if they were available, but with the size of the student body at Spaulding and the wide range of courses offered to all levels of students, it would be tough to cater to a very small percent unless more funds were available. More people and businesses coming into the area would mean a larger taxable base, meaning more funds to offer to the School Department.

What can be done to boost economic development in the city’s industrial parks and downtown?

Offer incentives, either in taxes or funding, to help people open a shoe store, a bakery, a bookstore, a local diner—something everyone could use. There’s a good start down there now, with classes for children in gymnastics, a new barber, a small art gallery and some insurance companies downtown. Let’s quit letting corporate America take over our town and help individuals, not corporations. Ease some of the petty regulations imposed on small business and bring people back to Rochester.

Are you in favor of abolishing the Rochester Police Commission?

I have to ask, what purpose does the commission really serve? What does it do that can’t be done with some common sense and cooperation between the Council, the city manager, the Police Department and the Fire Department? I won’t go so far as saying I’m against it, but I would have to really see proof of how they help this town in ways that couldn’t be done with common sense and cooperation.

If elected, what would you do to foster the arts in Rochester?

Art is something to be appreciated in any town. But the only place I see lilacs in the “Lilac City” is the other side of Rochester Hill, filled with road debris and trash thrown out of cars. Let’s bring back the art of nature. Everything else should come after we have cleaned up our town. This is all of our responsibility. Let’s bring back some pride in Rochester, then it will grow and prosper.

Councilor Elaine Lauterborn, age 68

occupation: retired educator (teacher/counselor/principal)
years living in Rochester: 36
public service experience: City Council, 10 years (4 as deputy mayor); N.H. state rep., 1 term; Strafford Regional Planning Commission, 2008-2011; NH Waste Management Council, 2003-present; Isinglass River Local Advisory Committee 6 yearsr

What do you think is the most positive change or development to take place in Rochester over the last two years, and what do you think is the most negative change/development? Most positive: Continuing development of the Route 11 corridor and expansion of the Granite State Business Park. These projects will add value to the city of Rochester, both in terms of jobs and the tax base. Most negative: The rate of home foreclosures resulting from the national recession.

If elected, what would be your top priority for the city over the next two years? My top priority is economic development. City Council decisions on the budget, zoning and infrastructure should all be directed toward positively impacting economic development, which ultimately will be of benefit to all of the residents of Rochester.

There’s a new early education task force in Rochester and a proposed magnet school. What do you think can be done to enhance public education in Rochester? I support both of these initiatives. The Rochester School Board and management team are addressing long-term needs observed in the school population. I applaud their efforts to reallocate resources to areas of greatest need. Focusing on improving the educational experience of underserved populations in our schools will result in raising the overall academic standing of Rochester students.

What can be done to boost economic development in the city’s industrial parks and downtown? The council is engaged in efforts to further the development of the Granite State Business Park, which is located in my ward. Businesses want to know government is willing to invest in the city before they commit private dollars. It’s important we maintain our infrastructure and present a business-friendly environment. I applaud the work of the Main Street program and its volunteers. City government needs to support Main Street, both financially and through collaborative projects.

Are you in favor of abolishing the Rochester Police Commission? I voted against placing a charter amendment to abolish the Police Commission on the ballot. That said, it will be on the ballot and the people will decide. If they vote to keep the Police Commission, so be it. If not, the Police Department would fall under the purview of the city manager, like every other department. Rochester has a fine Police Department and I’m confident it will continue to be so under either model.

If elected, what would you do to foster the arts in Rochester? I have a music degree from Syracuse University, years of experience as a music teacher, and a strong record of support for the arts, both personally and through city involvement. The Rochester Opera House is a gem in our community and an important part of our downtown revitalization efforts. We recently established an Arts Commission to further enrich the lives of residents and bring visitors to the city, benefiting downtown restaurants and businesses.

WARD 2, SEAT B

Dave Cope, age 34

occupation: maintenance mechanic
years living in Rochester: 34

What do you think is the most positive change or development to take place in Rochester over the last two years, and what do you think is the most negative change/development? I believe that any change or development that improves Rochester’s image is a positive change. Anything that helps business come to Rochester is positive. I feel any development with strings attached is negative and can hurt Rochester’s future. Also, I believe we need to tread lightly on the new rezoning. I feel this could end very negatively if this decision is rushed.

If elected, what would be your top priority for the city over the next two years? Mostly Rochester’s image. I think this would directly influence more businesses coming to Rochester, both big and small.

There’s a new early education task force in Rochester and a proposed magnet school. What do you think can be done to enhance public education in Rochester? Although I do not know much about the proposed magnet school, I feel we need to find out why the drop-out rate is so high. Also, we need to make sure the administrative staff is doing all they can for our students.

What can be done to boost economic development in the city’s industrial parks and downtown? I would find out what is preventing businesses from coming to Rochester. Also, I would see what could be done to make Rochester more appealing to businesses thinking about locating to Rochester’s industrial parks or downtown.

Are you in favor of abolishing the Rochester Police Commission? I am big on value creation. If the Police Commission is creating value for the city of Rochester, I am all for it. If it is wasting taxpayers’ money, I feel it should be abolished.

If elected, what would you do to foster the arts in Rochester? Rochester has many wonderful outlets and programs for the arts, including ArtStream, the Rochester Opera House and many different dance studios, just to name a few.

WARD 3, SEAT A

Councilor Peter Lachapelle, age 48

occupation: public sector representative for Waste Management
years living in Rochester: born and raised
public service experience: city councilor since 2004

What do you think is the most positive change or development to take place in Rochester over the last two years, and what do you think is the most negative change/development? Given the overall economic downtown, the city has still seen growth.  Country Tire & Service Center, CVS Pharmacy, Coyote Creek and the relocation of Albany International  just to name a few. These are positive changes that need to continue and will as the economy rebounds. Potential negative development would be to cut essential services and deter future commercial and industrial growth.

If elected, what would be your top priority for the city over the next two years? I believe we need to continue to support the business parks, make the downtown a destination for arts and dining and continue to make necessary infrastructure improvements. I want the city to be a great place to live, work and visit.

There’s a new early education task force in Rochester and a proposed magnet school. What do you think can be done to enhance public education in Rochester?

The magnet school is an idea worth pursuing. I am glad that the School Board is looking at new and innovative ways to educate our children; it shows “Thought Leadership.” I look forward to seeing specifics.

What can be done to boost economic development in the city’s industrial parks and downtown? The Council has planted seeds in both industrial parks with infrastructure improvements, purchased land and created a TIF district. Some have indicated they would support a zero percent increase in the next fiscal budget. In theory I would love to see that; however, with health insurance, county taxes and retirement costs out of our control, a zero increase would mean cuts to staff and essential services. We will not attract new business if we cut essential services.

Are you in favor of abolishing the Rochester Police Commission? No. This has come in front of Rochester voters five or six times in the last 35 years and it has been voted down every time. It’s an important board that connects the public with policing and makes the force accountable.

If elected, what would you do to foster the arts in Rochester? The newly formed Arts and Culture Commission will play a major role in fostering the arts in Rochester. The council needs to support the commission and build off the assets we already have, like the Rochester Opera House.

WARD 3, SEAT B

Councilor John Larochelle, age 64

occupation: retired 
years living in Rochester: 33 
public service experience: 8 years—former mayor, current councilor

What do you think is the most positive change or development to take place in Rochester over the last two years, and what do you think is the most negative change/development? Positive: The relocation of Albany International to Rochester, as well as several other manufacturing and commercial businesses. We have lost some businesses, but we are gaining others. Given the economy, Rochester is doing well. Negative: The Economic Development fund has been depleted.

If elected, what would be your top priority for the city over the next two years? As a city councilor and a member of the Rochester Economic Development Commission, I put economic development as my top priority. Economic development is the base for maintaining low resident property taxes, funding essential services, providing jobs and improving quality of life.

There’s a new early education task force in Rochester and a proposed magnet school. What do you think can be done to enhance public education in Rochester? Rochester offers a variety of educational opportunities for a diverse student body. The Bud Carlson Academy and the Creteau Center are good examples. We should increase the variety of offerings.

What can be done to boost economic development in the city’s industrial parks and downtown? Ensure that there is land available for economic development. If necessary, provide required infrastructure for the businesses we wish to attract using tax increment financing to take tax burden of the development off of the homeowners.

Are you in favor of abolishing the Rochester Police Commission? No.

If elected, what would you do to foster the arts in Rochester? Although artistically challenged, I would continue to support the arts as I think the arts will play a major role in improving downtown Rochester as a destination. I will continue to support the Rochester Opera House as the major attraction for attracting non-resident visitors to our city.

WARD 4, SEAT B

Ray Lundborn, age 65

occupation: realtor
years living in Rochester: 28
public service experience: 10 years on School Board; 8 years on City Council; 4 terms as state representative

What do you think is the most positive change or development to take place in Rochester over the last two years, and what do you think is the most negative change/development? Work on the city’s infrastructure, including upgrade of the Spaulding Turnpike, and the economic director and Economic Development Commission working hard (behind the scenes) to bring new business to the city. While not seen, it is ongoing. Negative: closing of the Thompson Center Arms and continuing unemployment.

If elected, what would be your top priority for the city over the next two years? To take an active and positive role in the decision making to ensure the good future for Rochester.

There’s a new early education task force in Rochester and a proposed magnet school. What do you think can be done to enhance public education in Rochester? The majority of the School Board along with the superintendent are doing a good job of informing the community as to the educational value of these programs, and as a council we must support these efforts.

What can be done to boost economic development in the city’s industrial parks and downtown? As I mentioned above, we must actively support the economic director and commission as they continue to work to bring new businesses to the city. We also can assist the existing businesses so they, too, can continue. We have to support the Main Street program with an eye on the budget.

Are you in favor of abolishing the Rochester Police Commission? No, I am not. The commission plays an important part between residents, police and government. However, there needs to be an understanding of the control of the police budget.

If elected, what would you do to foster the arts in Rochester? With the Opera House, poet laureate and arts commission we have a good base to work from. The council needs to assist all these entities the best we can without breaking the budget.

WARD 5, SEAT A

Robert Jaffin, age 68

occupation: academics
years living in Rochester: 5.5
public service experience: Strafford Regional Planning Commission since January 2010

What do you think is the most positive change or development to take place in Rochester over the last two years, and what do you think is the most negative change/development? Positive: Albany Engineering expansion and extension of city water and installation of fire hydrants on Chestnut Hill and Little Falls Bridge Roads. Negative: Comprehensive rezoning plan/process. The master plan must be revisited before any rezoning plan can be introduced and then approved. A close second is the new grading system in the schools, and finally the City Council and mayor constantly blaming city employees and never taking responsibility for problems, whether strategic or operational.

If elected, what would be your top priority for the city over the next two years? Make it easier and quicker for new businesses to start up in Rochester. Return the school system to basic education and get control of the school budget since it represents over half of every tax dollar the city collects.

There’s a new early education task force in Rochester and a proposed magnet school. What do you think can be done to enhance public education in Rochester? Hold students and teachers responsible and focus on basics. Money should be spent on teachers and basics, not administration costs and overuse of technology in classrooms. We need more effective use of money/resources for student transportation.

What can be done to boost economic development in the city’s industrial parks and downtown? Reduce regulation, streamline the permitting process and shrink city government by eliminating certain committees and commissions, especially the Historic District Commission and Community Development Committee. Centralize economic development in a more limited and focused public-private partnership. Inform the state of the problems with many current and proposed state highway “solutions,” although they may represent what the City Council thought it wanted at an earlier time. Requirements change as development occurs and we learn from others.

Are you in favor of abolishing the Rochester Police Commission? Yes, see above: when everyone is responsible, then no one is responsible.

If elected, what would you do to foster the arts in Rochester? My focus is on restoring the business community and reducing city spending. While it is vital for the city to support the arts, it is not a core function of government. What one labels as art, another might label as trash or pornography. My support of city efforts will most likely be limited to in-kind support with no direct monetary expenditures. Providing food, clothing and shelter for our least fortunate residents comes before the arts.

WARD 5, SEAT B

Robert Gates, age 67

occupation: self-employed carpenter
years living in Rochester: 8
public service experience: Zoning Board for 7 years, Salvation Army Board of Advisors

What do you think is the most positive change or development to take place in Rochester over the last two years, and what do you think is the most negative change/development? Development along Route 11 and Granite Ridge. I try not to focus on the negative.

If elected, what would be your top priority for the city over the next two years? Continued economic development.

There’s a new early education task force in Rochester and a proposed magnet school. What do you think can be done to enhance public education in Rochester? This is a School Board issue. I’m running for City Council.

What can be done to boost economic development in the city’s industrial parks and downtown? Continued funding of the Rochester Economic Development Commission.

Are you in favor of abolishing the Rochester Police Commission? Yes.

If elected, what would you do to foster the arts in Rochester? Continue to fund them with my disposable funds only.

WARD 6, SEAT B

Charles Grassie, age 59

occupation: municipal planner
years living in Rochester: 59
public service experience: N.H. Legislature (10 years), Rochester Planning Board 10 years, Rochester City Council (26 years)

What do you think is the most positive change or development to take place in Rochester over the last two years, and what do you think is the most negative change/development? Positive: The growth of arts in Rochester. With the recent success of the Opera House and the formation of the Rochester Arts and Cultural Commission, we have seen new arts and dance studios flourish, adding to a new economic vitality in our downtown. Negative: Negativity in comments against the good things happening in Rochester. Some people see no good in anything. There has been an increase in negative writings and comments tearing down any good things people in our community attempt.

If elected, what would be your top priority for the city over the next two years? To improve the image of our city. We need to do a better job of getting the message out that Rochester is a growing community with quality education and an improving jobs market.

There’s a new early education task force in Rochester and a proposed magnet school. What do you think can be done to enhance public education in Rochester? We need to continue what we are doing. Rochester has been recognized as an innovator in education in New Hampshire. Early education, magnet school, Big Step—all things we need to build on.

What can be done to boost economic development in the city’s industrial parks and downtown? As chair of the Community Development Committee, I have worked to bring the council into our downtown. We hold our meetings in downtown businesses, meet with our social service organizations and work closely with our Main Street program and the Economic Development office. Recent efforts by the council have placed Rochester in a prime position for industrial growth with high skilled, high paying jobs. I expect to see more growth in the next few months.

Are you in favor of abolishing the Rochester Police Commission? Not at this time.

If elected, what would you do to foster the arts in Rochester? I have always been a big supporter of the arts in Rochester and a leader of support of the arts on the City Council and will continue to be.

Julien Savoie, age 57

occupation: insurance claims examiner
years living in Rochester: 22
public service experience: served on several City Council committees; Boy Scout volunteer; religious ed. teacher in my parish

What do you think is the most positive change or development to take place in Rochester over the last two years, and what do you think is the most negative change/development? Most Positive: Increased public interest in government that led to last year’s Republican sweep in Concord. Most Negative: Empty storefronts downtown.

If elected, what would be your top priority for the city over the next two years? Public safety. This is the first duty of government.

There’s a new early education task force in Rochester and a proposed magnet school. What do you think can be done to enhance public education in Rochester? Competition. I support vouchers that would provide parents with a choice between public and private education.

What can be done to boost economic development in the city’s industrial parks and downtown? We need to streamline the permit process to encourage business development.

Are you in favor of abolishing the Rochester Police Commission? It’s an unnecessary layer of government. I favor abolishing it.

If elected, what would you do to foster the arts in Rochester? The arts are not the business of government.

Editor's Note: Why you don't see more candidates stating their positions here

To those candidates from Rochester who opted not to participate in our Voter’s Guide, shame on you! Between the cities of Dover, Portsmouth and Somersworth, only one candidate failed to participate in our survey. But, for some reason, Rochester proved much more difficult. Of the 24 total candidates for City Council and mayor, only 13 took part in our survey. Kudos to those 13 candidates, whose responses are on the following pages. 

Although we went to great lengths to reach every candidate—by e-mail, phone and, in some cases, mail—it’s possible that some candidates never received the survey. Perhaps they did not check their e-mails or phone messages, or maybe their e-mail addresses or phone numbers recently changed or were disconnected. To those candidates, we apologize for the glitch in communication. But it’s more likely that the candidates just ignored the e-mails and voice messages.

Eric Sirles said he was going to “talk to his peers” before making a decision about whether to participate and ultimately chose not to. Incumbent Geoff Hamann neglected to participate in our survey both this year and in 2009, when he was running unopposed. Incumbent Ralph Torr said he does not use his City Council e-mail address (?!) and refused to give out his personal e-mail address (we mailed a copy of the survey to his home, but he had not responded by deadline).

Some candidates said they did not have time to complete the survey, which included six questions and was distributed two weeks in advance. Those candidates may want to reconsider running for City Council, as serving the city will certainly require a much more significant investment of time than a six-question survey.

The Wire has conducted City Council candidate surveys in the cities of Rochester, Dover, Portsmouth and Somersworth in each of the last three municipal election cycles, and we have received ample positive feedback from readers, some of whom have said they used the survey as their primary means of getting informed about the candidates and making their voting decisions. It’s a true shame that some candidates felt it was not worth their time to inform their potential constituents about what they stand for. It begs the question of whether they deserve to be elected and, if they are, whether they will take the time to address the concerns of Rochester citizens.