Chris Kelly thanks supporters in final public race

UPDATE: Chris Kelly spent Tuesday night thanking those that gathered to support him in his last run for public office.

“I am the most grateful man in Boone County,” Kelly said. “These folks have given me a long, wonderful career, and I’ve had a chance to do a lot of good things. I wish Mayor Treece all the best, and I wish the city of Columbia all the best.”

ORIGINAL: Chris Kelly could re-enter public office on Tuesday in the race for Columbia mayor.

Kelly, 72, is challenging incumbent Brian Treece for the three-year term on the Columbia City Council. Kelly has held a litany of offices, including Boone County Clerk, state representative and associate circuit judge.

Kelly said he considers this race the most important he has run. He has raised concerns with Treece’s fundraising in the race, citing the money taken from political action committees and developers.

Watch Kelly’s interview with ABC 17 News here.

During the campaign, Kelly has touted his desire to repair and strengthen relationships with other governmental agencies, such as the Boone County Fire Protection District and Columbia Public Schools. He also said he would focus on keeping the city’s budget balanced.

Kelly himself has faced criticism for thousands of tweets he deleted before entering the race. Opponents claim the tweets show misogynistic views, but Kelly said the tweets were taken out of context.

Check back for updates as ballots are counted.