Bloomington Ward 5 Alderman Jennifer McDade has been taken off the April ballot. (WJBC File Photo)

By Paul Morello

BLOOMINGTON - Bloomington Ward 5 alderman Jennifer McDade will not appear on the April 9 ballot.

The Bloomington Election Commission made the decision Monday, saying McDade's nominating petitions were invalid because they did not "properly describe the office being sought by the Petitioner because they did not list which Ward...she was seeking to be a candidate."

The commission also said McDade's petitions were invalid because she listed the wrong date of the primary election. They said her petitions listed Apr. 9, 2013 as the primary, instead of Feb. 26, 2013.

Ward 5 challenger Matthew Koetters had previously challenged McDade's petitions.

He presented his argument to the commission Monday morning. McDade and her attorney, Nathan B. Hinch, were also present at the hearing.

McDade can appeal the decision.

This story will be updated.

Paul Morello can be reached at paul@wjbc.com.