Brian Kelly Not Running for Commissioner

Brian Kelly, the face of Haddonfield United, a grassroots group that successfully spearheaded the opposition to the Bancroft public purchase referendum, has decided not to run in the borough commissioners election in May.

Voters rejected the referendum last month.

"I think it would compromise what we can do on the outside," said "We really can provide checks and balances."

Kelly said he thinks some people may see him as divisive, but others stop him on the street to ask if he's running.

"People ask me all the time 'Are you running, are you running?'" he said. "I've said no so many times."

Kelly frequently comments on stories about local government and schools on Haddon Patch. The $12.5 million Bancroft referendum was a signature effort for his group after being greatly outspent by opposition.

"When it comes right down to it, turf field doesn't represent the vision of the town," said Kelly about one of the key components of the Bancroft purchase and redevelopment.

All three seats on the board of commissioners are up for election in May. Incumbent Jeff Kasko and former Commissioner Neal Rochford already announced their candidacy, while long-time Commissioner Tish Colombi is stepping down. Commissioner Ed Borden has not yet announced his plans.