By Adam Studzinski

BLOOMINGTON – The Bloomington Election Commission will hear testimony Tuesday morning on a challenge to Bloomington Mayor Tari Renner’s nominating petitions.

Kevin Gerrard claims hundreds of signatures on Renner’s petitions do not match up. Renner said the burden of proof is on Gerrard.

“And unless they’ve got some sort of handwriting expert that can verify that, this is all a waste of taxpayer’s time,” said Renner. “Right now, frankly, I wish we could be talking about issues.”

The commission held a preliminary hearing Friday afternoon on the matter.

“As a voter you have a right to sign a petition to put somebody’s name on the ballot. That’s a fundamental right, signing petitions,” said Renner. “There are a lot of people are upset who are quite upset. We’ve got affidavits of people who they are saying either don’t exist or they don’t like the signature.”

Gerrard had no comment following the hearing.

Earlier in the day, another hearing was set due to a petition challenge by Bruce Meeks. Hearings on petitions not being properly notarized will be held Thursday morning starting a 9am for Renner, There will also be hearings for Ward 5 Alderman Joni Painter as well and Ward 3 Alderman J Balmer.

Adam Studzinski can be reached at [email protected].