Leslie Horne joins Rochester City Council, thanks new peers

ROCHESTER — Leslie Horne was sworn in as a city councilor Tuesday, replacing Rachel Lawrence, who submitted her resignation in June, citing job changes and personal reasons.

Horne was chosen over two other candidates for the Ward 2 Seat B seat on the council.

"​I’ve known him forever," said Mayor Paul Callaghan on Wednesday. "He’s going to be a great addition to the city council. I’m pleased that he volunteered to serve. He has a breadth and depth of knowledge from his time as an executive serving municipal governments.

Horne said he was a Rochester resident for many years, raising his family here. He was recruited for a job with the Texas Municipal League and when he retired, he and wife Susan decided to return home.

"I had been actively involved in the city before we went to Texas," he said. "We have been back for a couple of years, and I decided it was time to get involved again. I love the city and I want to help make it better. There is always room to improve."

Three candidates submitted their names for consideration for the vacant seat. The other two were Michael Dionne and Raymond Turner.

Horne has experience serving Rochester

Horne will fill the seat until the term ends at the end of 2025.

"I believe it's about a year and half," he said. "And then, yes, I plan to run for election."

Horne noted his past service to the city on the School Board, the Police Commission and other municipal boards and commissions. He was a building inspector for the town of Farmington and has municipal experience in the state of Texas.

"I began my career in Rochester as a police officer," he said. "I believe in being involved in my community."

Rochester's newest councilor gives thanks to new peers for kindness

Horne asked if he could share a personal story.

"I am deaf," he said. "I have cochlear implants. When I went for my interview with the council, my hearing went, completely. This council is wonderful. They didn't miss a beat and just starting writing down their questions. I was able to answer everyone, but the way they handled what happened is exemplary and I want people to know about their grace towards me."

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This article originally appeared on Fosters Daily Democrat: Leslie Horne joins Rochester City Council, thanks new peers