Tripp Welch announces candidacy for Rochester City Council Ward 2

ROCHESTER, Minn. (KTTC) –On Thursday, Tripp Welch announced his plans to run for the Ward 2 seat in the Rochester City Council.

“After nearly 30 years of living in Ward 2 and volunteering across our community, I am thrilled to announce my candidacy for Ward 2 Rochester City Council.” Welch stated in his announcement.

As a values-driven leader, an adept strategist, an attentive listener, and compassionate neighbor, Welch believes his journey of public service has prepared him to step forward as an advocate on the Rochester City Council.

Welch moved to Rochester in the summer of 1996 from Washington D.C.

“We were immediately struck by the livability and quality of life in Rochester,” Welch said. “We found Rochester to be safe, easy to navigate, and had just about everything we wanted – extensive parks and recreation, a welcoming library, and a vibrant community.”

While he initially intended to only stay a few years before returning to the east coast, he said that his heart was captivated by Rochester’s charm, the warmth of the community, and the exceptional quality of life it offers.

“We participated in all that Rochester had to offer and worked hard to enhance it, from yearly participation in Litter Bit Better, to coaching youth soccer to building exhibits for the Children’s Museum. I also served on many community boards, including Child Care Resource and Referral (now Families First of Minnesota), Rochester Art Center, Olmsted Housing and Redevelopment Authority, Rochester Rowing Club, and Rochester Airport. You have seen me out in the community because I believe in giving back and doing what I can to make a difference.”

With Mayo Clinic planning to invest $5 billion into downtown Rochester, Welch believes that the city will need engaged representation to ensure that neighborhood voices are heard to ‘minimize the necessary disruption and maximize the benefits that will come with this significant investment in Rochester.’

“Together, we can continue to make public safety, livability, and community experience top priorities for our city. I am eager to champion the interests and aspirations of Ward 2 residents,” Welch stated.

Current Ward 2 council member Mark Bransford announced Wednesday he will not seek a second term.

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