Word is that State Sen. Maida Coleman — her career in Jefferson City facing its term limit — could be next in line to challenge Mayor Francis Slay.

With filing opening today, Slay has already one challenger — former Alderman Irene J. Smith, who also ran against Slay in 2005.

Now, Coleman appears poised to also enter the race.

Taking on Slay will be tough for any city official. The mayor has strong name recognition, and more than $1 million in his bank account.

Coleman has flirted with running for other offices before — such city license collector and state auditor, both of which she ultimately decided against.