Mark Keating Wins Write-In Race for 7th Ward

has wrapped up the race for 7th Ward alderman. Keating, with 239 votes, beat out five other write-in candidates in the foot race for retiring Ald. Paul Wechet's seat.

Candidate acquired the second highest vote total with 94, according to vote totals from the Cook County Clerk's office. 

"I'm happy to win it," Keating told Patch. "I was excited to see people come in, try to be write-in candidates."

Former Mayor finished with 43 votes total.

"Such is life," Kelly told Patch. "It is better to have someone run and win, then have nobody run at all.

"I think Mark will do a good job."

Keating hopes to focus on financial responsibility and security, as well as boosting the city's commercial 

"First and foremost, I'd like to make sure we're financially and fiscally sound," Keating said. "We have to keep the businesses we have, and find ways to bring new businesses in."

(Votes)

Grace Bardusk

William Bockstahler, Jr.

Mark Keating

Bernard Kelly

James Katula

Mark Payonk

*Vote totals are from the Cook County Clerk's Office.