New Haven – At a modest gathering of roughly 55 residents in the Whalley Avenue police substation on Wednesday, Ward 24 candidate Jennifer Tillman announced she is exiting the special aldermanic race. Citing health concerns, Tillman said she could not muster the energy required for the demanding role. She then formally endorsed fellow Democrat Randall Furlow, describing him as an “old friend” and a steady hand for the community.
Why Tillman stepped aside
“I decided to step out of the race for my health and physical wellbeing,” Tillman told the Independent. “I just couldn’t give all the energy required for this role with my condition.” The decision leaves Furlow and nonprofit leader Lindsey Eichler Tengatenga as the two remaining contenders for the Nov. 10 special election that will fill the seat vacated by former Alderman Evette Hamilton.
Furlow and Tengatenga present their visions
Both candidates used the forum to address pressing neighborhood concerns – Yale’s financial contributions, housing affordability, pedestrian safety and local infrastructure. Furlow, a 12‑year Democratic ward co‑chair and cousin of Board of Alders Majority Leader Richard Furlow, highlighted his deep roots in Edgewood, noting six generations of family history in New Haven. He argued that even a modest increase in Yale’s voluntary contributions could be “revolutionary” for the city’s finances, funding housing, employment and neighborhood programs.
Tengatenga, a 41‑year‑old nonprofit veteran and Edgewood resident of 12 years, positioned herself as a community organizer who will broaden resident participation. She proposed a new ward newsletter, a public dashboard tracking sidewalk repairs, and quarterly housing meetings to monitor anti‑displacement measures. Her personal story – a cancer diagnosis shortly after moving to Edgewood and the support she received from neighbors – underscores her commitment to a “neighborhood where no one is outside the circle of concern.”
Endorsement reflects a call for unity
Furlow welcomed Tillman’s endorsement, calling it a sign of community solidarity. “Jennifer stepping out of the race but making the decision to join our team and to support me, I think is a really good thing for the community to show solidarity,” he said. Both candidates agreed on strengthening short‑term‑rental regulations and improving pedestrian safety, though they differ on committee preferences – Tengatenga hopes for the Education Committee, while Furlow eyes the Finance Committee.
What’s at stake
The winner will serve the remainder of Hamilton’s two‑year term, which ends in 2027, and will inherit her committee assignments, including Aldermanic Affairs. With Yale’s endowment returning 26.3 percent last fiscal year, the candidates see an opportunity to leverage additional university contributions for local needs.
Residents left the forum encouraged, having spent a brief moment introducing themselves to neighbors – a small exercise that Tengatenga hopes will become a lasting practice of inclusive decision‑making. As the special election draws near, the community watches closely to see which candidate will best translate these discussions into concrete action for Edgewood and the broader city.
Original reporting: New Haven Independent — read the source article.
