Shaun C Palmer – City Councilperson Ward 5

Letter to Rochester Residents,

August 11, 2024

It's a privilege to share my vision for Rochester -- a vision that belongs to the entire community, not just me. I aim to represent your voice and heed your input.

My connections to Rochester are profound, with my grandfather having attended Edison Grade School and my experiences in the prominent historic Southwest (Pill Hill) district, notably as a guide at Mayowood. My extensive knowledge of Pill Hill and persistent advocacy for its interests during my six years on the City Council signify my dedication. My voting record and initiatives as part of the council provide clear evidence of my commitment to preserving our city's heritage.

I stood firmly against the higher density (R2x) zoning changes to protect the historic integrity of Pill Hill. My dedication to our residents was exemplified by preserving the Soldiers Field Golf Course -- the most accessible golf course for people with disabilities -- in what is our central park.

I have actively supported the development of single-family homes to address our primary housing need and to prevent sprawl by allowing current and potential residents to own homes and build equity in our city rather than in neighboring towns.

I am committed to you and our shared responsibility towards Rochester, guarding against influences from outside interests. It has come to my attention that certain groups with paid advocates in the Council President and Ward races are looking to remodel our neighborhoods into something akin to the Twin Cities. If these groups prevail, it could deeply transform Rochester's character and significantly raise our tax levy.

Your perspectives and worries matter greatly to me. I welcome you to connect with me regarding any issues you face concerning our city.

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