PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Billy Keane is dropping out of the race for Ward 5 City Council.

 

Keane received enough nomination signatures to have his name on the ballot. However, he said "unforeseen circumstances related to a tough situation my family is currently experiencing" has led him to halt his campaign.

 

"I am going to need to relinquish my candidacy for Ward Councilor. In my world view, family needs to come first, and therefore I know that though this is a difficult decision, it is also the right one," Keane wrote in a Facebook post on Friday. 

 

"I look forward to continuing to work diligently towards the bright and successful future that Pittsfield deserves in my capacities as an engaged citizen, a civically minded musician, and a director for the Board of Realtors (we have a few other projects we are currently working on, beyond the $15,000 grant we were able to secure and provide to Tyler Street's recent Better Block initiative. More news to come) along with any other opportunities that may present themselves."

 

Keane said he planned to announce his withdrawal through numerous outlets so there is no confusion when voters got to the polls. Keane said the circumstances were "certainly not expected." 

 

The musician and real estate broker was looking to challenge incumbent Donna Todd Rivers for the seat. His goals were to help small businesses and build on the arts and culture economy. 

 

Rivers won the seat in 2015 by just 12 votes over Richard Scapin and a recount was needed to confirm the victory. She succeeded former Councilor Jonathan Lothrop, who opted not to run for re-election.

 

No other candidates sought the seat, leaving Rivers now essentially running unopposed — though Keane's name is still on the ballot.