This Great Falls Official Says He Will Not Run for Re-election. Who Is It?

Great Falls Mayor Bob Kelly has told us today that he will not be running for re-election this November.  Kelly was first elected as mayor in 2016 and is finishing up his fourth term.  Prior to being elected mayor,  he was a city commissioner for three years.

In past interviews, Kelly has said that he enjoys  being mayor and getting out in the community and it's a pleasure to represent the city when visiting groups come to Great Falls.

Perhaps one of the low points fo Kelly as mayor occurred in January of 2020 during his third term when he apologized for signing a letter to President Trump supporting an increase in the number of refugees allowed to settle in the U.S.  Kelly was one of only 14 people from Montana to sign the letter.   Kelly said on a facebook post after it was learned he signed the letter with his name and title as mayor, " I realize that as mayor of our community, it may not be a concern you share.  By implying your inclusion in my concern, I misrepresented you."

Now the question is, who will be running for mayor.

We learned today that Joe McKenney says he will be running for mayor.  He's been a commissioner the past two years.  McKenney says his background includes experience as a military veteran and an entrepreneur.   He was also a four term state lawmaker.

Also running is Corey Reeves, who is the former undersheriff for Sheriff Jesse Slaughter.  The mayor's job pays about $500 a month.  The election is November 7.