Cuthbertson Steps Down as Rochester Mayor; Bikson Takes City's Reins

The city of Rochester has a new mayor.

Sort of new.

Stuart Bikson, a 12-year member of Rochester City Council and former mayor, has replaced Jeff Cuthbertson as the city's leader after Cuthbertson stepped down Tuesday night.

The change was part of the City Council's annual election of a mayor; Cuthbertson himself nominated Bikson. Council members voted 7-0 in favor of the outgoing mayor's choice for his replacement.

Cuthbertson said he was stepping down to spend more time with his family, with his growing law practice and on other business interests.

"It has been an honor for me to serve as mayor — a dream come true," he said. "I know we're in good hands."

Bikson is a high school teacher and tennis coach. He served as the city's mayor for two years prior to Cuthbertson, who was voted mayor in 2009.

Bikson thanked his colleagues and his family for their support during his years on City Council. He also thanked Cuthbertson for leading the city during the past two tough economic years.

"It's an honor to be elected by my peers," he said. "I promise to do my best to represent the city in a positive way."

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