The countdown to the special election in District 17 is underway.

On Tuesday, voters will have a chance to select a new councilmember for the seat that has been vacant since late December.

Six candidates are vying for the position left open by former Councilwoman Maria del Carmen Arroyo.

All registered voters who live in the 17th District, which includes Port Morris, Morrisania and Concourse Village, are eligible to vote. Local leaders say it's especially important to vote because mid-year elections usually have low voter turnout.

The polls open at 6 a.m. and close at 9 p.m. Since it is an open election, anyone can vote, regardless of which party they are registered in.