Shaun C Palmer – City Councilperson Ward 5

Letter to Rochester Residents,

May 2026

It has been a true honor to serve the people of Rochester, and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue working on behalf of our community. My vision for Rochester is rooted in listening to residents, representing your voices, and preserving the character and values that make our city unique.

My connection to Rochester runs deep. From my grandfather attending Edison Grade School to my own experiences in the historic Southwest neighborhood, serving as a guide at Mayowood, and participating on many boards and community groups, I have long appreciated the rich history and strong sense of community that define our city. Since being elected to the council in 2018, , I have consistently advocated for protecting Rochester’s historic neighborhoods and maintaining the qualities of our city that residents value most. From advocating for thoughtful traffic and roadway improvements to supporting parks and recreation projects that enhance our quality of life, I have remained focused on practical solutions that strengthen our neighborhoods and community spaces.

I strongly support thoughtful residential growth, including the development of single-family homes that help meet Rochester’s housing needs while giving families the opportunity to build roots and equity within our city. Encouraging responsible growth within Rochester also helps reduce sprawl into surrounding communities.

As your council member, I remain committed to putting Rochester residents first and ensuring local voices guide the future of our city. I believe growth and progress should reflect the priorities of the people who live here and protect the character of the neighborhoods we call home.

Your ideas, concerns, and perspectives matter deeply to me. I encourage you to reach out anytime with questions, concerns, or thoughts about the future of Rochester. Together, we can continue building a city that honors its history while preparing thoughtfully for the future.

Shaun C. Palmer
Ward 5 City Council Member
507-254-9484

shaun@palmerforrochester.org
palmerward5@gmail.com

Rochester Minnesota park view

ISSUES FOR THE CITY OF ROCHESTER

As your 5th Ward Councilperson, I understand the issues facing the city of Rochester. Below are just a few of the issues that have been brought to my attention. Where do you think the city council’s focus should be? Contact me with your thoughts.

  • Affordable Housing.  We need to raise the standards for affordable housing. The current minimum standards are too low.
  • Green Spaces.  We need to set aside spaces to keep our city green. New developments need to keep spaces for parks, trails and families to enjoy the outdoors. As your councilperson, I will work with the DMC board and city planning to assure that the development includes these spaces for our future enjoyment.
Rochester Minnesota District Ward Map for Voting
  • Lower Crime.  Our city should have a zero tolerance policy for crime. We should support community-based policing and installation of security cameras in strategic areas of the city.
  • Transportation.  In the future of DMC and increased population, we need to place importance on expanding our bus system and developing our trails to make commuting to the downtown areas more convenient and user friendly.
Silver Lake in Rochester Minnesota

Shaun C Palmer – City Councilperson Rochester

Hello Friends and Citizens of Rochester,

My family and I have been involved and invested in the Rochester community our entire lives. I am proud to have been born, raised and educated in Rochester. It has been my honor to represent my neighbors of the 5th Ward on the Rochester City Council. I will continue to do my best to make your voices heard, make sure your taxpayer dollars are used responsibly, and use my experience in the construction industry and my stalwart leadership skills to be an active part of the decisions that affect our city.

James J. Hill once said "Great cities do not happen by accident." It is my plan to encourage the city leaders to try new approaches to old problems and make Rochester a city that believes in zero tolerance for crime, affordable housing for all, and one where fairness and equity prevails. Contact me with any questions and visit my social media for timely updates!

Shaun Palmer Rochester Minnesota Councilperson