Munson to seek at-large council seat

Longtime educator Gregory Munson announced Monday his intentions to seek the position of Rochester City Council president.

In a statement, Munson cited the impacts of Destination Medical Center along with concerns over the handling of the recent council/mayor pay raises, the Kmart park-and-ride, and “the millions of dollars spent on mostly unused bike lanes in roads” as his motives for entering the race.

“I want to be Rochester’s new city council president because I believe Rochester is a great city, but it’s time for change to make it better for our residents,” said Munson.

A lifelong resident of Rochester, Munson taught at John Marshall and Mayo High Schools for 13 years before finishing his 36-year teaching career as director of Quarry Hill Nature Center. For the past nine years, he has written a weekly “Nature Nut” column for the Post Bulletin.

“When I retired, I felt that [Quarry Hill] was one of Rochester’s crown jewels, as well as one of the best nature centers in the country,” said Munson, now a grandfather of four.

The position Munson is vying for is the council’s only at-large seat. It has been held by Council President Randy Staver since 2013.

In an email Monday, Staver said he had spoken to Munson a couple of times, so he was not surprised to see at least one challenger come forward.

It remains unclear, however, whether Staver will file for another term in office. After stating in September he would seek one final term in office, he now stands undecided on whether to run. In 2016, his last citywide election, Staver defeated a challenger by a seven-point margin.

“I certainly have things ready to go and can flip the switch whenever I’m set,” Staver said. “I’m enjoying the luxury of talking to people, gauging topics and taking my time.”

Candidates looking to be on the ballot this year can begin filing Tuesday with the city clerk’s office. Filing ends June 2 at 5 p.m.

Local positions on the ballot this year include council president; council wards 2, 4 and 6; and school board positions 1, 3 and 7.

Candidates are encouraged to call the clerk's office at (507) 328-2900 to schedule a time to file, or to learn about other filing options, including electronically, by mail, or by delivery service.

Further information on becoming a candidate can be found here.

Sean Baker is a Rochester journalist and the founder of Med City Beat.