Kroening to challenge Campion for Ward 3 seat
Political newcomer Arlo Kroening announced in the 11th hour his plans to challenge incumbent Nick Campion for Rochester's Ward 3 seat.
Kroening turned in paperwork for the position Tuesday, just hours before the 5 p.m. filing deadline. Campion and Kroening were the only candidates to file in Ward 3, meaning they will face off in a general election on Nov 6.
A graduate of Mayo High School, Kroening works as a painter for Sorensen and Sorensen Painting. Prior to his current position, he spent more than two decades at Roscoe's BBQ in southeast Rochester. He lives in town with his wife, Anita, and their teenage daughter.
“As a tradesperson, I strongly believe in education and supplying our children with the tools they need to succeed,” Kroening said in his campaign announcement. “I’m the farthest thing from a politician you’ll find. Instead of worrying about headlines or international developers, I’ll be in the district, listening to what people have to say. I care deeply about this city and will work tirelessly to ensure we have a safe, vibrant and prosperous community. I’ll bring a common person’s voice and approach to the city council; a voice that I think we currently lack.”
Hickey (not Mark) running for Ward 5
Judy Hickey announced this week that she will campaigning for the Ward 5 seat now held by her husband, Council Member Mark Hickey.
Mark Hickey, who was first elected in 2013, said last month he would not be seeking another term in office. Since then, a flurry of candidates — now five total — have announced campaigns for the seat.
In a news release, Judy Hickey said her campaign will focus on fiscal responsibility, planned development and quality of life issues.
As a mother of six grown sons, Hickey said choosing to live in Rochester and raise her family here has "been primary to the quality of life her family has experienced." As the city continues to grow, she stressed the importance of providing quality services and amenities that will encourage Rochester’s young people to return to raise their families.
“I intend to continue to devote my time and energy to the Rochester community,” she said. “If elected, I look forward to the opportunity to serve the citizens of Ward 5 as their representative on the Rochester City Council. I intend to focus on improving the qualities and characteristics of Rochester that make it a great city in which to live, work, and raise a family.”
Judy Hickey has served on the boards of numerous local nonprofit organizations and last year received the award for outstanding volunteer in the arts from the Greater Rochester Arts and Cultural Trust.
A full list of candidates for local office is available on the city's website.
Cover photo: Arlo Kroening
