Albert Lean Jeff McLaughlin announced this week he is no longer seeking the vacant 1st Ward Albert Lea City Council seat.

McLaughlin, 48, of 210 Fairview Drive, said he recently accepted a job offer that will involve a different time commitment.

“I just don’t feel it’s fair to run for a council seat and maybe not make some meetings at times,” he said.

McLaughlin was one of six candidates vying for the 1st Ward seat during the March 15 primary election.

He said though he knows it is too late to take his name off the ballot, he wants people to know his intentions.

Still seeking office are George Gillespie, of 327 Lloyd Place, Dave Klatt, of 1309 Oriole Drive, Harold Kamrath, of 326 Glenn Road, Stuart Olson, of 401 E. Richway Drive, and John Schulte V, of 212 Lee Place.

The March 15 primary election will narrow this list down to two candidates. The special general election will be May 3.

The position opened up after former 1st Ward Councilor Vern Rasmussen accepted an immediate appointment as mayor following the Nov. 3 election.