Blaise Berglund announced she is withdrawing from the special election for Ward 9 alderman in New Haven and is formally endorsing Maria‑Threese Serana. Berglund, who serves as the agricultural programs manager at CitySeed and sits on the city’s Food Policy Council, was one of four candidates who initially filed to run for the vacant seat covering parts of Fair Haven and East Rock.
Why Berglund stepped aside
After fellow candidate Conor Gilligan announced his own withdrawal earlier this week, Berglund said she reassessed her ability to serve effectively. “Affordability is an issue that all working people are facing right now,” she explained. “I realized the amount I’m already working would keep me from being totally present in the alder role.” Berglund emphasized that her decision was driven by a desire to give voters a clear choice and to ensure the ward receives a fully‑engaged representative.
Endorsement of Maria‑Threese Serana
Berglund met with Serana over tea and a Turkish pastry called künefe, describing the conversation as “really positive” and focused on collaborative solutions for the neighborhood. “I’m excited to endorse Maria and give folks who were interested in supporting me the opportunity to support her,” Berglund said.
What’s left in the race
With Berglund and Gilligan out, the special election now pits Serana against Gavin Arnold. Both candidates will appear on the ballot on September 15, even though the two withdrawing candidates’ names will still be listed.
Election logistics for voters
New Haven residents who have not yet registered can still vote in the special election. While the online and mail‑in registration deadline has passed, in‑person registration is open at the Registrar of Voters’ office on the second floor of 200 Orange St. (Room 202) through Monday, September 14. Voters may also request an absentee ballot up to that date; completed ballots must be received by the City Town Clerk’s office by 8 p.m. on election day.
Early voting will be available from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on September 10‑13 at City Hall’s second floor and at Southern Connecticut State University (1 Wintergreen Ave). On Election Day, polls open at 6 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. at East Rock Community Magnet School, 133 Nash St.
Voting requirements
Voters with a driver’s license or photo ID should bring it to the polls, though it is not mandatory. Acceptable identification includes a social security card or any document showing name and address, name and signature, or name and photograph. Those without such ID may still vote by signing a legal affidavit (Form ED‑681); providing false information on that form is a Class A misdemeanor.
Continuing civic involvement
Berglund said she will remain active in local civic life through the Food Policy Council, advocating for food security, community gardens, and support for local food providers.
New Haven voters are encouraged to review the candidates, verify their polling locations, and participate in this important special election that will fill the remainder of former Alderman Caroline Tanbee Smith’s term through the end of 2027.
Original reporting: New Haven Independent — read the source article.
