UPDATE: Benjamin Zastrow has officially announced his candidacy for the Rochester mayoral election set for 2026, aiming to bridge the growing divide between local government and residents. This announcement, made earlier today, comes after over two years of contemplation about the future of Rochester’s leadership.
Zastrow, a resident of northeast Rochester and current chairman of the Rochester Heritage Preservation, expressed a deep commitment to ensuring that community voices are prioritized amid the city’s rapid growth. “We’ve faced division, economic strain, and uncertainty,” Zastrow stated on his social media platforms. “Businesses struggle, neighborhoods are overlooked, and parts of our history are lost in the rush toward rapid growth. We can do better.”
The urgency of his campaign is underscored by the pressing needs of the community as the city prepares for its next election cycle. Zastrow’s focus is on creating a government that actively listens to its constituents and fosters sustainable progress. He emphasized the mayor’s role as a crucial link between the city council and the residents, ensuring that policies enacted do not harm the community.
Citing his leadership experience and community involvement, Zastrow believes he is well-suited to implement the changes that residents crave. “This seemed like a better fit to implement the types of changes and effects in this community that I think the people are hungry for,” he added.
The filing period for the 2026 city elections is set to open from May 19 to June 2, 2026, during which Rochester will also elect council members for wards 1, 3, and 5. Current Mayor Kim Norton has yet to announce whether she will seek a third term, leaving the field open for candidates like Zastrow to advocate for a new vision.
As Zastrow’s campaign gains momentum, local residents and businesses are watching closely. His vision for Rochester aims to create a more inclusive government that prioritizes the needs and voices of its citizens at a time when many feel disconnected from the decision-making process.
Stay tuned for more updates as this developing story unfolds and as Rochester prepares for a pivotal election year.
