An Albert Lea man has withdrawn his candidacy for Albert Lea City Council.

Harold Kamrath, 68, of 326 Glenn Road, said he withdrew his candidacy for the 1st Ward seat a few weeks ago so he could travel north and see his grandchildren who live near St. Cloud and not have to worry about driving back for meetings.

Kamrath said he also did not want to be a councilor, noting he announced his candidacy because he had questions about financial purchases at City Hall and Shell Rock River Watershed District operations.

He said he does not want the Watershed District to dredge Fountain Lake and said he would like to see the $15 million estimated for the project to be used for transportation and infrastructure improvements.

He also disagrees with the Watershed District’s use and cost of electric fish barriers.

Kamrath filed for election May 31 and is a former Albert Lea German and English teacher.

Rich Murray, Craig Havener and George Gillespie are still running for Ward 1 councilor.

The primary election is Tuesday. Kamrath’s name will still be on the ballot.