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Rochester City Council Member District 5

As local legislators who sometimes have executive power, council members can propose ordinances, set administrative policy, and authorize the budget proposed by the mayor. They oversee all city activities, including city services, programs, licensing, and public safety. Mayoral appointments to city government typically require council approval.Learn more here: https://www.lwv.org/blog/voting-local-matters-why-vote-city-councilUse the MN Secretary of State’s Candidate Filing page (https://candidates.sos.mn.gov/) to find specific candidate contact information.Watch the candidate forum for the primary election for this position, held on Wednesday, July 15.

Click a candidate icon to find more information about the candidate. To compare two candidates, click the "compare" button. To start over, click a candidate icon.

  • Candidate picture

    Ruchi Gupta
    (NP)

  • Candidate picture

    Shaun C. Palmer
    (NP)

  • Candidate picture

    Acacia Ward
    (NP)

Biographical Information

Why are you the best candidate for this position? (750 characters)

If elected, what will your top three priorities be and why? (500 characters)

How do you plan to engage with and represent all members of our diverse community?(500 characters)

What steps will you take to ensure transparency and accountability in city government? (500 characters)

telephone 5079902525
I bring a unique combination of experience, analytical thinking, and a deep commitment to Rochester. After more than 20 years in our community, I understand both the opportunities and the challenges facing Ward 5. My background in mathematics, physics, and applied statistics helps me evaluate issues based on evidence while keeping residents’ needs at the center of every decision. My priorities—property tax mitigation, supporting local businesses, improving transportation, and protecting our environment—reflect what I’ve heard from voters. I will be an independent, prepared, and accessible council member who listens, builds consensus, and works for practical solutions that strengthen Ward 5 and Rochester for everyone with integrity, always.
My top priorities are: (1) Build an efficient communication system with Ward 5 neighborhoods so residents are informed and their concerns reach City Hall. (2) Create a stronger feedback loop between the City Council and Planning & Zoning to improve transparency and ensure development reflects community priorities. (3) Take a deep dive into how property tax dollars are allocated to identify efficiencies, improve accountability, and help reduce future tax burdens.
Representation begins with listening. I will be accessible to every resident through regular neighborhood meetings, office hours, and multiple communication channels. I will actively seek input from people of different ages, incomes, cultures, and abilities, especially those who are often underrepresented. My decisions will be guided by data, transparency, and community feedback, ensuring every voice is heard and every neighborhood in Ward 5 has a seat at the table.
Transparency starts with communication. I will explain my votes, share regular updates on council actions, and make myself available through neighborhood meetings, office hours, and online forums. I will advocate for clear reporting on city spending, project outcomes, and performance metrics so residents can see how decisions are made and how tax dollars are used. Accountability requires openness, measurable results, and consistent engagement with the community.
Campaign Website http://palmerward5.org
telephone 5072549484
Campaign Email palmerward5@gmail.com
I have observed the Rochester City Council for over 30 years, and the best Council members have all been good listeners and have the best interests of all the citizens of Rochester at heart. In my eight years of serving, the only question I ask myself is what is best for all of Rochester.
What do you see as the top three priorities in this race? Representation Affordability Public Safety
To continue working with all the people of Rochester and attend different events, I am always available and will continue sending the 5th ward report to the residents of Rochester.
I will continue to be accountable and transparent as I have already been for eight years.
Campaign Website http://rochesterforward.com/
telephone 5076965956
I am running because I believe effective local government starts with listening. As a student leader, community organizer, and advocate, I have worked with people from many backgrounds to identify challenges, build partnerships, and find practical solutions. I put resident needs first, bringing a fresh perspective to Ward 5 leadership.

Ward 5 deserves a council member who is accessible, responsive, and focused on results that work for the people of Rochester. I prioritize regular engagement with residents, people-driven solutions, thoughtful stewardship of taxpayer dollars, and policies that strengthen neighborhoods, support economic vitality, and improve quality of life for everyone in Rochester.
Affordability and Stability in Everyday Life: Ensuring residents at all income levels can continue to live and thrive in Rochester.

Safe and Connected Neighborhoods: Investments in infrastructure and public spaces that keep everyone in mind.

Transparent and Responsive Government: Accessible and understandable city documents, open communication, frequent community engagement, and decisions guided by resident voices.
Community engagement is where my experience with diversity comes from. I have helped co-design programs like the Family Resource Center and currently work with organizations such as Three Rivers Restorative Justice that bring together people with many different perspectives. I will maintain open office hours, attend community events, use multiple communication methods to reach residents where they are, and actively seek input from underrepresented voices so city decisions reflect our community.
Transparency begins with making government understandable and accessible. I will provide regular updates, clearly explain my votes, and support open access to meetings, agendas, and city data. Residents should hear about major decisions before they are made, not after. I will ensure meaningful opportunities for public input and ask direct questions until clear answers are provided. I will listen, follow through on commitments, measure results, and remain accessible to the people I serve.