Bloomington Ward 5 Alderwoman Jennifer McDade is hoping the McLean County Circuit Court reverses a decision to take her off the April election ballot. (WJBC file photo)

By Zach Dietmeier

BLOOMINGTON - Ward 5 Alderwoman Jennifer McDade will appeal the Bloomington Election Commission's decision to remove her from the spring ballot.

McDade lost a challenge from opponent Matthew Koetters on Monday over errors on her filing petition but remains confident of her chances in April.

"I have received an overwhelming amount of support from people in Ward 5 and throughout the community," said McDade. "I'm very encouraged in continuing my campaign for re-election. I'm very confident that we have a very strong case."

McDade plans to file the appeal in McLean County Circuit Court.

"When we have the opportunity to present the case in front of the judge, I'm very confident we will prevail and have the chance to run for alderman in Ward 5," said McDade.

That opportunity could come on Friday when McDade files her appeal. She expects to know shortly the court's timetable for the process. McDade added the expectation is for a quick turnaround on a decision.

McDade likes her chances of making her way back into the Ward 5 race for a few reasons.

"Details of the appeal are still being finalized," said McDade. "We submitted a response with several exhibits of evidence during the hearing on Monday and we will incude additional information in the appeal."

Zach Dietmeier can be reached at zach.dietmeier@cumulus.com.