Mayor Brede will not run in 2018

Rochester Mayor Ardell Brede will not seek reelection this November.

An emotional Brede made the announcement at the end of his annual State of the City address, which took place during Wednesday night's city council meeting. Brede, who will turn 79 in June, has been in office since 2003.

"While I will continue to give 100 percent to representing this great city, I will not be seeking re-election in 2018," said Brede. "It has been a unique honor to serve Rochester as your mayor, and while we are not Bedford Falls, 'it’s been a wonderful life.' "

Read the full transcript of Brede's final State of the City address.

Brede's decision to forgo a fifth term leaves the Rochester mayoral race wide open. During his tenure, Brede has embraced the role of city ambassador. Discussion over how the next mayor will approach the office will become a central issue as other individuals begin campaigning for the position.

So far, only one candidate — musician Jordan Glynn — has publicly announced plans to run for mayor in 2018. Other individuals said to be considering a run include former DFL State Rep. Kim Norton, businessman Joe Powers and Rochester City Council Member Nick Campion.

The deadline to file for election is in June. If more than two candidates decide to seek the position, a primary will be held in August. Election Day is Nov. 6.

Correction: A previous version of this story misstated the day of the council meeting. It was Wednesday, not Monday.

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Cover photo: Brede in 2015 during an interview with Med City Beat