PORTSMOUTH — The Portsmouth Democratic Town Committee has reshuffled its list of endorsed Town Council candidates after one had to withdraw her name from consideration.

Tarah Woods, an endorsed candidate for Town Council, has accepted an unexpected full-time job opportunity with the Portsmouth School Department, which would make her unable to serve if elected. The Town Charter prohibits town employees from holding town office.

“We are incredibly proud of Tarah for securing her new career position,” said Len Katzman, who chairs the Portsmouth Democratic Town Committee. “While we’re saddened to see Tarah leave our team, we appreciate her decision and wish her success in her future endeavors.”

Following the development, the committee voted unanimously to support David Fiorillo as its replacement candidate for nomination, joining the other endorsed council candidates: Sondra Blank, Timothy Grisset, Charles Levesque, Tasha MacGibbon, Juan Carlos Payero, and J. Mark Ryan. 

Fiorillo, who has a strong background as a small business owner, and has been active in community service as the chair of the Parks and Recreation Committee for over five years, said he’s eager to step into the new role and bring his expertise to serve the people of Portsmouth.

“I’m honored to receive the support of the Democratic Town Committee and join their slate,” said Fiorillo. “I’m passionate about serving our community and committed to continuing the hard work of representing our neighbors’ needs and concerns.”

Katzman added, “We are thrilled to welcome David to the campaign.”

Due to the lateness of Woods’s withdrawal, her name will still appear on the ballot for the Democratic primary on Sept. 10.

“We hope you’ll consider casting your vote for David instead and the six other endorsed Democratic Party candidates,” Katzman said.