The Economic Development Department for the City of Rochester is celebrating the opening of several new businesses throughout the community and introducing a new initiative to streamline commercial development, strengthening and improving its reputation as a business-friendly community.
Through new Pre-Certificate of Occupancy (Pre-CO) meetings, designed for larger projects requiring approval from multiple departments, city leaders aim to simplify the development process by working closely with developers and business owners on project completion.
Launched in October 2024, the Pre-Certificate of Occupancy meetings provide a checklist and a collaborative session with city staff in the final months leading to a project’s completion. This proactive approach allows developers to review any outstanding items well in advance of final inspections, minimizing last-minute surprises and ensuring a seamless opening.
Norm Vetter, developer of 22 South Main Street—now home to the new Cinco’s Cantina—shared his positive experience working with the city, noting that Rochester’s building department has been “friendly, knowledgeable, and great to work with.”
Vetter credits the 79-E program, a tool designed to encourage the rehabilitation or replacement of underutilized structures in urban centers, as a major factor in his decision to invest in the historic downtown property. “There are a lot of misconceptions about Rochester,” he said. “I think that’s changing for the better. The more we work together to improve things, the better it’ll be for future developers and entrepreneurs.”
Other new business owners in Rochester have also expressed appreciation for the welcoming environment and smooth processes. Dave Mather, owner of Busy Bee Café, was impressed with the city’s support during his opening. “Whenever I had questions, help was easily within reach,” he said. “People are very excited to have a new option for coffee in the downtown area.”
According to Jennifer Marsh, Assistant Director of Economic Development, Busy Bee Café has already become a downtown staple, with plans to expand its menu to include breakfast sandwiches and other lunch items.
Another entrepreneur, preparing to open a new business in the Micheals block, described Rochester’s city departments as patient, positive, and productive, highlighting the support provided from the start, stating, “They told me this was their approach when I started this project, and they have backed it up every step of the way.”
Cinco’s Cantina Business and Finance Manager Erin Tellez described the “overwhelming community support” her team has felt since opening, stating, “Rochester is a vibrant, growing city with a deep sense of community, and we believed it would be the perfect place to share the authentic Mexican flavors that are so close to our hearts.”
Matt Goyette, franchise owner of Jersey Mike’s at The Ridge Marketplace, expressed appreciation for the warm welcome they received, including a well-attended ribbon-cutting ceremony organized by the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce. He affirmed the decision to join the Rochester business community, stating, “From the hardworking, happy customers to the support we received from the city, opening Jersey Mike’s in Rochester has been one of our best decisions yet.”
“Through the success of these new businesses and the launch of Pre-Certificate of Occupancy meetings, the City of Rochester continues to foster a thriving business environment that benefits entrepreneurs, residents, and visitors,” said Michael Scala, Director of Economic Development.
For more information on relocating, starting a business, or exploring development opportunities in Rochester, visit chooserochester.com or call the Rochester Economic Development Department at (603) 335-7522.