Magician B.W. Coggins throws his hat in the ring for Rochester mayor

Brent "B.W." Coggins still has one trick up his sleeve.

Coggins, a retired civil engineering technician and lifelong magician, announced his candidacy for Rochester mayor this past weekend.

During an address outside Willow Creek Reservoir Park — a project he helped design as part of the flood control measures of the 1980s — Coggins said he will use history, imagination and common sense to find solutions to the issues facing city government, such as housing and transportation.

"If you choose, I will be your mayor," he said. "Why? Because I have a passion for people. I believe in truth, transparency and trust."

Coggins graduated from Mayo High School in 1977 and has spent his entire life in Rochester. In 2017, he retired from a position with the Iowa Department of Transportation, where he assisted with highway safety improvements, to become a caregiver for both his wife and mother. 

"I have chosen to take this next step in life — not for me, but for the good I see in people," he said during his campaign announcement, which was broadcast live on Facebook. "I want to see all people, businesses and families grow, achieve and be proud, by helping themselves and others."

While short of specifics, Coggins outlined his vision for DMC with one statement. It starts with adding the missing "U," he said, so others can "Discover our Magical City."

Two other candidates, Jordan Glynn and Regina Mustafa, have announced bids for Rochester's mayoral position. Incumbent Mayor Ardell Brede announced in January he would not be seeking re-election this year.

Cover photo via Facebook