MADISON – Madison City School Board of Education member Ranae Bartlett announced today she is running for Madison City Council, District 5.

Bartlett has served as the school board’s vice president and president during the past nine years.

“After over 10 years of community service to Madison families and the community, I’m ready to take another big step, Bartlett said. “I want to bring my strong work ethic, proven service record, and a new voice to your council. I believe it’s time for a new era of transparency.”

Bartlett was appointed to the Madison Board of Education in June 2011 and reappointed in 2016.

She also serves as Executive Director of the Madison City Chess League, a non-profit organization she founded to promote chess education in the community.

Long-time city councilman Tommy Overcash is the current District 5 representative. He is nearing the end of his fourth term in office, and has not declared whether he will seek a fifth term.

Bartlett’s announcement is the second school board member, or former member, who has recently decided to run for city council. Former school board member Connie Spears is running for the District 2 position.

The municipal election for mayor and city council positions will be held Aug. 25.

Editor’s note: Gregg Parker will have more later on Ranae Bartlett’s decision to run for city council.