
Together we can build a stronger, safer, and more equitable Rochester
As a Council member and Council President, I have worked hard to lead with decency, commitment, and a passion for our city.
Listening to diverse voices and making thoughtful, informed decisions can be challenging, but a deliberate and inclusive approach has effectively guided my work. I am proud of the progress we have made together to create safer neighborhoods, quality housing, and equitable access to opportunities — the core pillars of my record.
Safer Neighborhoods
As Council President, I expanded the Public Safety Committee to include all nine council members, ensuring every elected official was accountable to our citizens for addressing the challenges of rising violence. Under my leadership, the Council has allocated more money to civilian-led violence prevention efforts than ever before in Rochester’s history. While there is still much work to be done, homicides, violent offenses, and car thefts have declined significantly.
We’ve secured millions of dollars with federal partners to improve pedestrian and bicycle safety for everyone - especially our children. I have also been a part of Rochester’s leadership in the fight against lead contamination by voting to invest over $75 million to replace lead water service lines and update our lead ordinance to protect public health. Ensuring your safety and well-being remains my top priority.
Quality Housing
Housing stability continues to be a significant challenge for many Rochesterians. Improving housing quality and affordability is critical to our city’s future. I supported a historic 37.5% property tax rate cut in last year’s budget while keeping the tax levy flat for three consecutive years.
Through my work on the Housing Quality Task Force, I secured more resources for affordable housing, introduced legislation ensuring tenants and property owners know their rights, and enhanced our city’s code enforcement capabilities. I am particularly proud of leading the investment in Peace Village, which will soon provide 30 beds in “tiny home-style” shelters for individuals experiencing homelessness as they transition to stability. Most recently, I led a local process and released a “Good Cause” report recommending and subsequently opting into the strongest eviction protections seen in decades.
Through Buy the Block, we have invested over $20 million in two phases, creating new single-family homes for first-time homebuyers in historically redlined neighborhoods. I have found funding in the budget to fill gaps in new affordable housing projects to ensure we build more housing options in our city. I intend to expand, further develop, and invest in neighborhoods across our growing city.
Equitable Access to Opportunities
Expanding opportunities for ALL residents has been a central focus of my work. I initiated “Roc the Block” Employment Fairs, connecting residents to job opportunities through block party-style events across the city. Through ARPA, we worked with the administration to invest significant resources in workforce development to connect our residents to employment opportunities. Using opioid settlement funds, I advocated for the creation of neighborhood ambassador programs in all four quadrants, offering life-changing employment to individuals impacted by substance use disorder.
There is still more to accomplish together
“Decency and steady leadership must anchor our local politics as we navigate uncertain times. While national rhetoric may divide, thoughtful local leadership can protect our rights and provide stability.”
— City Council President, Miguel Meléndez