Aliyya Swaby Photo
Mayor Toni Harp swore in Latrice James as the newest alder for Ward 3 in the Hill Tuesday afternoon, making her the third person to hold the position this year.
Her sister, Mikesha Henderson, held a bible steady as James pledged to serve her constituents in the Hill, where the new alder has resided since the 1980s. James works as a math and science supervisor at Platt Technical High School while pursuing a degree at Columbia University Teachers College.
“I’m equally excited to work with each of you to bring success to the city of New Haven,” she said, addressing the other alders at the ceremony.
Several others had considered running for the position earlier this summer. Yet ultimately James ran unopposed, eliminating the need for another special election. She steps into the position eight months after another one of her sisters, Jackie James, resigned from the seat to take a City Hall position; and then after Jackie James’ replacement, JeQueena Foreman, stepped down after just six months in the job.
“I know your family quite well and I know you’ll do a great job,” Alder President Jorge Perez told Latrice James at the swearing-in ceremony.
James said she plans to meet with community members and pinpoint key issues. Already on her radar: neighbors’ concerns about speeding cars on Stevens Street.
"I know your family quite well and I know you'll do a great job," Alder President Jorge Perez told Latrice James at the swearing-in ceremony.
This is why we must get rid of the crooked town Committees and get IRV voting where the people get to pick.