Jennifer McDade was reinstated to the April ballot yesterday. (WJBC File Photo)

By Paul Morello

BLOOMINGTON - Bloomington Ward 5 Alderman Jennifer McDade doesn't know the total yet, but said Tuesday she estimates it could have cost her up to $20,000 to fight a challenge to her nominating petitions that initially got her kicked off the April ballot.

McLean County judge Paul Lawrence reversed the Bloomington Election Commission's decision Monday.

"I spent the money because I knew it was important for the voters of Ward 5 to have a choice in the election, and I truly believed my due process rights had been violated," she said.

PODCAST: Listen to Jennifer McDade's interview on WJBC.

Ward 5 opponent Matthew Koetters challenged McDade's petitions in December. Lawrence ruled Monday that the BEC violated the Open Meetings Act and that the commission's decision was void.

"I've said all along, I'm not sure why anyone would take the opportunity to elect someone out of the hands of voters," McDade said.

McDade said she did not ask Koetters why he decided to challenge her petitions on a technicality. Koetters said Monday he does not plan to appeal Lawrence's decision.

McDade will be restored to the ballot immediately.

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