Kim Sin announces run for Rochester's Ward 1

Kim Sin says he wants to be a representative who can build bridges between the city council and the residents of Ward 1.

Sin, who works in information technology at the University of Minnesota Rochester, announced Monday his plans to seek the Ward 1 seat being vacated by longtime Council Member Ed Hruska.

"As your city council member, I will listen to, and represent, all members of our shared community to have a better understand our needs and identify where public policy can have a positive impact," Sin said in a letter shared with the Med City Beat.

Kim is a graduate of both Rochester Community and Technical College and Winona State University. He moved to the U.S. in 1983 at the age of six to escape the humanitarian crisis in Cambodia — and through a combination of hard work, encouragement from family and community support, has fulfilled his own version of the American Dream.

Now a married father of two, Kim said he wants to give back.

"I am the first generation in my family to graduate from college," said Sin. "It was a hard journey for me to get where I am today. If not for the support I received from my mother, brothers and sisters, friends and the Rochester community, my accomplishments would never have been possible."

Over the past two decades, Sin has been active in Rochester — organizing and planning community cultural events and volunteering on efforts to support area youth, seniors and nonprofit organizations.

Because of his involvement in the community, Kim said he has seen firsthand the challenges Rochester faces, such as affordable housing, public transportation, livable wages and safe/affordable childcare. 

"We need a city council person who will understand our unique emerging community," said Sin." Our growing population include newcomers from all over the world who will work for the betterment of our community along with established residents of Rochester. We need a city council reflecting our community. Having lived in Rochester for almost 35 years, I understand both viewpoints."

Kim joins a crowded field of candidates vying for Rochester's Ward 1. Three other candidates — marketing consultant Heather Holmes, retired IBMer Patrick Keane and small business owner Paul Myhrom — have already announced plans to campaign for the seat.

The period for candidates to begin filing for election begins Tuesday and runs through June 5. A primary will likely be held Aug. 14.