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Councilwoman Phyllis Marcuccio "ignited" her run for mayor on Saturday, telling a crowd of more than 50 that she will sow seeds of change in Rockville.

Marcuccio, 74, announced several weeks ago that she would challenge first-term Mayor Susan R. Hoffmann in the election this November.

Upon hearing of Marcuccio's challenge to the mayoral seat last month, Hoffmann said, "I welcome her to the race and look forward to a spirited debate."

Marcuccio said the kick-off event was an emotional moment for her.

"The very first thought in my head when I saw that [sign that said ‘Phyllis Marcuccio for Mayor'] was, oh, my father would be so proud," Marcuccio said. "It was very special. My dad was an immigrant from Sicily and I know it would have made him so happy."

In her speech Saturday, Marcuccio pledged to run on a platform of change.

She cited four reasons she is seeking the seat, including a lack of effective leadership from the mayor's seat, "unprofessional" behavior by the mayor and council, "a budget process that is cumbersome, void of detail and highly structured to support staff-driven priorities" and a lack of effective process for residents when issues affecting their neighborhoods are proposed.

"As your mayor, I will correct these weaknesses by providing fresh, effective leadership, giving priority to citizens' needs, and restoring civility in our city's elected government," Marcuccio said.

She pledged to challenge the necessity of all new fees and taxes proposed, foster a supportive business climate, improve the dialogue between City Council and the many city boards and commissions, and protect the city's green spaces and programs that make Rockville more environmentally savvy.

She said she was thrilled and a little surprised to have the turnout that she did at her kickoff event.

"I think of it as a striking of a match," she said. "I believe we've ignited in the community some real options, and I hope they will really take hold. I see this as a great beginning."

Carrying over a theme from her campaign in 2007, Marcuccio posed with her "listening post," a staff that symbolizes her willingness to hear what the community has to say.

Election Day is Nov. 3.