George Rownd adds name to list of candidates for Rochester mayor

George Rownd filed paperwork to run for Rochester mayor on Tuesday.

Rownd, a commercial real estate broker with a background in the hospitality industry, joins five other candidates vying for the position being left open by Mayor Ardell Brede, who is not seeking re-election.

In announcing his campaign, Rownd described himself as a consensus builder with experience working with people of all backgrounds.

“I think leadership is not a top-down proposition," said Rownd. "It starts with understanding the goals and needs of the constituents. I see the Mayor’s office as a public service post, and I would always treat it that way.”

Rownd is a lifelong Rochester resident who graduated from Lourdes High School and later St. John's University. From 1995-2005, he served as president of the Rochester Hospitality Company, where he oversaw more than 300 employees. For the past 15 years, he has worked as a broker associate for Braasch Commercial Real Estate.

“One of our challenges is to find and retain the many workers of all levels that we need to support the growth of our city," he said. "Rochester offers a chance for all people to have a better future, and it should be a priority to meet the housing, transportation, and other needs of the workers.”

Rownd's civic engagement includes 10 years on the Rochester Convention and Visitors Bureau Board, including two years as its president. He also spent a decade on air as KROC-AM's "Sports Expert."

Candidates have until Tuesday 5 p.m. to file for election.

A full list of candidates for local office is available on the city's website.