New Haven’s Ward 9, covering the Goatville section of East Rock and the northwestern corner of Fair Haven, will hold a special election on Sept. 15 to fill the alder seat vacated by former Alderman Caroline Tanbee Smith. Smith announced her move out of the ward on June 23 and formally stepped down on Aug. 5, prompting the Secretary of the State to set the election schedule on Aug. 13.
Candidate Qualification Process
Under state law, each candidate must gather signatures equal to at least 1 percent of the votes cast in the most recent Ward 9 alder election—six valid signatures in this case. The Secretary of the State’s office confirmed that all four hopefuls met the requirement and will appear on the ballot.
All four prospective aldermen reside on the East Rock side of the ward. The winner will serve the remainder of Smith’s two‑year term, ending in Dec. 2027.
Community‑Driven Outreach
In the weeks before her resignation, Smith worked with Ward 9 Democratic Party co‑chairs Claudia Herrera and Sarah Fritchey to keep the process transparent. They used social media, email newsletters, and presentations to the East Rock and Fair Haven Community Management Teams to spread the word about the open seat.
Smith reported meeting face‑to‑face with at least seven prospective candidates and emphasized that the goal was to give new, never‑run‑before candidates time to consider the role and ask questions. “We’re not making this an invite‑only race,” Fritchey said, adding that the party intends to “kick open the door” for all interested residents.
Upcoming Candidate Forum
Herrera, Fritchey, and Smith are planning a public forum for the candidates. The date and location are still being finalized and will be announced soon, providing voters a chance to hear directly from each contender.
What the Alderman Role Entails
Smith described the alder’s duties as a blend of neighborhood‑level problem solving—handling potholes, stop‑sign requests, and new development concerns—and citywide responsibilities such as budget deliberations, legislation voting, and policy advocacy. Aldermen typically serve on three monthly committees and attend bi‑monthly full board meetings.
She also highlighted the importance of communication, encouraging residents to become advocates for themselves through newsletters, social media, door‑knocking, and community conversations. “It’s a significant time commitment—something to take very seriously,” Smith warned.
Advice for Candidates
Former Ward 9 alder Claudia Herrera urged hopefuls to understand what they are fighting for and to stay aware of the needs of both halves of the ward. “If you don’t have that base, you’re gonna lose yourself in paperwork,” she cautioned.
Fritchey added that the next alder should not be “scared to take chances” and should lead with courage.
Voter Information
Eligible voters with a Connecticut driver’s license or ID can register online, in person at the Registrar of Voters’ office, or by mailing a registration form to 200 Orange St #201, New Haven, CT 06510. The online or mail registration deadline is Aug. 28; the in‑person deadline is Sept. 14.
Absentee ballots can be requested through Sept. 14 and 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 Sept. 10‑13 at a location to be announced. Historically, the Ward 9 polling place has been East Rock Community Magnet School.
Felons who have completed their sentences may re‑register, except those convicted of election‑law violations, who should contact the Registrar of Voters. Residents without a permanent address may still register in a town where they have lived, slept, and intend to return.
Original reporting: New Haven Independent — read the source article.
