The grades are in: How are our elected city leaders doing?

Understandably, most residents do not have time to follow the workings of city government on a regular basis. Instead, they are often left to glean media quotes and social media posts to gauge how well their elected representatives are doing. But how effective are they really? Particularly when it comes to the nitty-gritty of overseeing an annual operating budget north of $500 million.

As one of the few independent observers who spend a painful amount of time watching city proceedings, I see things that don’t make the headlines every day. How prepared are our city leaders? Are they consistent? Do they seek to build consensus, or do they prefer to blow hot air?

Those are the factors I considered when making my first annual grades for Rochester’s elected leaders. This report card is not meant to be the definitive assessment of the city’s work, but I do hope it sheds light on some of the strengths and weaknesses of the people we put in charge.

Report Card: Rochester’s elected leaders

Patrick Keane, W1: A- Keane is thoughtful and measured in his decision-making, always being sure to collect as much data and input as possible before forming a position.

Mark Bransford, W2: D After running as a staunch neighborhood advocate, Bransford has struggled with consistency as he makes the transition from campaign mode to citywide governance, frequently taking positions that contradict each other. 

Nick Campion, W3: A- The council’s most experienced representative applies a level of rigor to his approach that is unparalleled on the council, though his patience for his inexperienced colleagues appears to be waning.

Kelly Rae Kirkpatrick, W4: C- While Kirkpatrick has potential to engage in meaningful questioning, her intentions are often muddled by a narrow focus that is neither practical nor productive.

Shaun Palmer, W5: B The council’s most effective conservative voice, Palmer is as straightforward as they come — often threading the needle between populism and pragmatism.

Molly Dennis, W6: D Dennis brings passion to the council, but her absolutist and undisciplined style of communication has left her unable to turn her zeal into meaningful action.

Brooke Carlson, council at-large: B Composed and articulate, Carlson has quickly grown into her role as the leader of the council — and of late has started to find more of her own voice.

Kim Norton, mayor: B- Med City’s mayor deserves high marks for following the science throughout the pandemic; for her policy-minded approach; and for nudging the city in the right direction on efforts related to the environment and diversity, equity, and inclusion. She can, however, be unnecessarily divisive — as evidenced by her cold relationship with the council. 

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

Cover photo: File / Licensed via Canva