Update: Tara Nealey Won't Seek New Council Term; Backs Jay Steinback

Regardless of what happens in April, Creve Coeur residents will elect at least two new members to city council.

Ward 2 Councilwoman Tara Nealey confirmed Thursday she will not seek a new two year term. Ward 1 Councilwoman Beth Kistner is barred by term limits from being on the ballot again.

Nealey, on council since 2008, previously told Patch she was operating under the belief she would run again when asked in November and December about her plans.

An attorney with the firm Polsinelli Shughart, Nealey has taken a lead on council's passage of the policy allowing for deer hunting in the city, and also introduced an ordinance that would limit funeral protests.

5:00 p.m. Sunday update

In an email Sunday, Nealey said she "very much enjoyed my time on the council," but said "it's time for a new voice and new perspective." She endorsed the candidacy of Rothman Mattress owner Jay Steinback, who filed for the race Monday.

"Knowing that a good candidate like Jay Steinback was ready to step up confirmed for me that the time was right to step aside. Creve Coeur is fortunate  to be able to draw on the talents of many dedicated individuals interested in elected office and serving on our boards. In particular Jay Steinback is a great candidate because of his long time residency in Creve Coeur combined with his business experience. In my time on the council, residents and fellow council members alike have lamented the fact that the fiscal and practical wisdom of business owners from our community have not been directly represented on the council."

Professionally, Nealey said she would turn a focus to pro-bono legal service after her term is up.

Ellen Lawrence filed for the race earlier this month. Patch is scheduled to interview Lawrence Monday in a story to run Tuesday. Find out what Steinback has to say about the race Monday on Patch.