TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Residents of Tampa recently engaged with candidates vying for a city council position that became vacant following the unexpected death of the admired Gwendolyn Henderson earlier this year.

Take it from community members like the vendor selling watermelons on 29th Street or a woman whose family lineage in East Tampa spans over a hundred years. They both emphasize the need for a proactive leader in District 5.

“For the people that are running, I hope their intentions are to do their best for the community,” said Richedean Hills-Ackbar.

“It’s tough around here. All these elected officials promise to make a difference, but once they’re in, nothing gets done,” expressed local resident Rome Harmon.

A total of 14 candidates have registered for the race, with seven attending a forum on Thursday night. Key issues discussed by the candidates included housing, access to opportunities, experience, and strategic planning, with several highlighting the East Tampa Community Redevelopment Agency Funding, or CRA.

“We really want to see community built up with those dollars,” said candidate Fran Tate.

“My focus would be on the CRA, revisiting the original vision and intent behind the $200 million meant for small businesses,” stated candidate Thomas Scott.

Scott told voters he helped create the CRA, touting his experience on city council and the Hillsborough County Commission.

“If experience was what we needed then we would not be sitting in these rooms having these same conversations,” said candidate Naya Young.

“To me, it’s all about this district getting it’s equity first before anybody else,” said candidate Darrell Dundey.

Candidates ended with their plans and why they believe voters should choose them to fill the seat.

“I want to help, that’s what I want to do, I want to represent our most marginalized communities,” said candidate Thomas DeGeorge.

“My job as a city councilperson is to do what I can to help the city grow,” said Albert Cooke, another candidate.

“I make sure big chains won’t come inside District No. 5, we need to strengthen the people who still own business,” said candidate Jose Vazquez.

You must request a mail-in ballot in order to receive one. Early voting is Sept. 4. Election day is Sept. 9.