Candidates to replace Mayor DeStefano

NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) -- New Haven Mayor John DeStefano made an announcement Tuesday night that he will be retiring from the city at the end of the year so candidates are beginning to announce whether or not they will run for mayor.

New Haven Alderman Justin Elicker is one definite candidate who made his announcement Thursday and there are a few who have announced they are "strongly considering a run for Mayor." One of those men is Hillhouse High School Principal Kermit Carolina. This came as a surprise considering the highly publicized dispute between Mayor DeStefano and Carolina over a grade tampering scandal. 

Just months ago, Hillhouse Principal Kermit Carolina was explaining his battle with Mayor John DeStefano and now he could possibly be the next mayor.

"I certainly have been thinking about it, but like I said with his announcement it's kind of more real than ever now," said Carolina.

Carolina's frustration with DeStefano was voiced loud and clear in September as he said he will not accept a three day suspension without pay after accusations of grade tampering. He says it didn't happen but Mayor DeStefano claimed the months long investigation showed evidence of tampering.

Carolina says the investigation was launched after an administrator who supports the mayor, brought these allegations to light.

"So this has nothing to do with the feud you two are in," asked News 8's Erin Logan.

No and in fact, I'm moving forward, past that. My faith requires that I forgive and I've done so. I've forgiven Mayor DeStefano," said Carolina.

Carolina says his main reason would be to give back to a city he loves and grew up in. 

"I just have fond memories of the adults in this community who sacrificed for me and put me in a position like this to lead," said Carolina.

Carolina says right now his family and students come first and his final decision will be made soon.

Just days ago, Alderman Justin Elicker made his official announcement that he is running for Mayor.

"Looking at the potential that exists in this city is something that has excited me," said Elicker.

Elicker is an environmental consultant. He grew up in Connecticut and has lived in New Haven since 2007 and is in his second term as Alderman.

"And I think that means we need to do meaningful school reform. Two is we need to have a long term 20 year horizon for the budgetary decisions that we make as a city and three is we need to give direct support to the neighborhood and residence for things that they're calling for," said Alderman Justin Elicker.