House Rep. Tim Kelly not running for re-election

Minnesota Rep. Tim Kelly, a Republican from Red Wing, said Wednesday that he would not seek re-election this fall.

"I am choosing to make this announcement now, because I believe it is important to give our next candidate a proper amount of time to get established and prepare a campaign," Kelly said.

First elected in 2008, Kelly serves as chairman of the House Transportation Policy and Finance Committee.

A Dakota County park ranger ticketed Kelly, 51, for public nuisance last summer when he was found with state Rep. Tara Mack, R-Apple Valley, in a parked car "making out." They were both married to other people at the time.

Kelly is a new grandfather and said he is looking forward to spending more time with his family. Kelly said he also will gain more time for his business, Discovery Financial, where he serves as a financial adviser and is co-owner.

Under his leadership, the House approved a comprehensive, long-term funding proposal that would allocate $7 billion for transportation needs over the next 10 years without raising taxes.

The measure never became law.

"It has always been, and will continue to be, a privilege to serve in the Minnesota House," Kelly said.

His House tenure will end when a new state representative is sworn into office in January.