Rochester City Council overrides mayor's veto on Legends site

The Rochester City Council voted 5-2 on Monday to override a veto from Mayor Kim Norton regarding the status of the former Legends site.

In doing so, the council reiterated its position to allow the building to remain standing as the city works on a long-term plan for the waterfront — that despite a majority deeming the site not worthy of historic designation.

“I believe this building is not historic, and that is how I voted,” said Ward 1 Councilor Patrick Keane. “But I also believe demolition is final, and it is something I don’t feel I am being pushed to do it this week or next week. And I think it’s unlikely — but possible — somebody will come back with a plan that may include using some of that building.”

Norton, who vetoed the council decision to maintain the building citing costs and public confusion, reiterated her previous point that redeveloping the site was always the city’s intent when purchasing the building.

“I was caught off guard with the actions that happened,” said Norton. “I worry that this sends a confusing message to people when we say we are going to do one thing — when we tell the residents (tenants) who have been removed from the building that we are doing one thing — and we change our mind to do something different. I know it concerns me.”

Councilors Nick Campion and Molly Dennis were the only two members to vote to uphold the mayor’s veto, with Dennis suggesting the city needed "a clean slate” as it moves ahead with the small area plan for the site.

The small area plan is expected to be released in spring 2022. In the meantime, the city will spend about $18,200 in utilities and up to $20,000 in external modifications to keep the building in tact.

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