Paul Bass Photo
Outside the College Street polling station during Wednesday’s election.
Two city alders who also serve as local labor leaders survived spirited union election challenges Tuesday.
Tyisha Walker-Myers and Brian Wingate won new terms as chief steward and vice-president, respectively, of UNITE HERE Local 35, the politically influential union that represents Yale’s blue-collar workers.
Walker-Myers defeated challenger Brandon Felder 405 – 339. Wingate defeated challenger Karen Young 421 – 267. The challengers called for improved communications between union leaders and members.
Walker-Myers also serves as president of New Haven’s Board Alders, on which she represents the West River neighborhood. Wingate represents Beaver Hills on the Board of Alders.
The balloting took place until 4:45 p.m. at multiple spots on Yale’s main and West Haven campuses. The ballots were all transported to union headquarters at 425 College St., where the counting took several hours.
Local 35 President Bob Proto did not face a challenge in this year’s election.
Click here for a previous story about the two challenge races.
Thomas Breen Photos
Walker-Myers (right); challenger Felder.
With all of the people in Local 35, it's a shame that only 400+ people came out to vote. People want change, so they say, yet their actions didn't speak of that want. Thanks to those who did get out and vote and congratulations to all of the candidates for a good campaign. Until next time.