By Howard Packowitz

BLOOMINGTON – A Democrat is in the race for the McLean County Board seat representing Bloomington’s west side.

Lea Cline, who chairs the Bloomington Historic Preservation Commission, announced Wednesday she’s a county board candidate in District 8.

The only other announced candidate is Illinois Wesleyan University student Jordan Baker, who’s running as a Republican.

Cline and Baker are looking to replace Carlo Robustelli, who decided not to seek re-election next year.

Cline is an Associate Professor of Art History at Illinois State University, and has served as an election judge and polling coordinator with the Bloomington Election Commission.

Cline said in a news release that serving on the election commission inspires her to advocate for “free and fair access to the polls,” in addition to election security in the county.

“My experience working as a faculty member at ISU has made me keenly aware of the difficulty that many of our residents, both youth and adults, face when seeking adequate, long-term treatment for mental health,” Cline also said.

Cline has Robustelli’s support. On his Facebook page, Robustelli said Cline is “thoughtful, progressive, and passionate about moving our community forward.”

“I hope my supporters will take the time to get to know Lea and learn about her passion for our historic neighborhoods and the future of our community,” Robustelli said.

Howard Packowitz can be reached at [email protected]