Perez, Ayala re-elected to Norwalk city council

NORWALK – Norwalk council members Jennifer Perez and Tony Ayala were both re-elected to the city council Tuesday.

Perez captured 26% of all votes, with Ayala not far behind at 25.93%, according to poll results.

Finishing third and fourth were Petra Pena and Luis Navas, who ran as a slate. They were backed by Norwalk mayor Rick Ramirez.

Rounding out the field was Dora Sandoval.

Perez was first elected to the City Council in 2017. She was elected to be mayor by her council colleagues in March 2018 and again in March 2020.

“I am pleased with the results of the election,” said Perez. “It indicates that despite many hurdles — including a pandemic — that residents feel the city is heading in the right direction. I’m ready to continue to work to bring investment to Norwalk that’ll bring good jobs and needed resources for vital city services.”

Ayala also joined the council in 2017. He is a lifetime Norwalk resident who previously worked for the city.

“While on the campaign trail, voters voiced how pleased they were with the direction of the city. Tuesday’s voting results confirms the sentiment that exists throughout Norwalk,” said Ayala. “Our work is not done, we need to continue with this initiative to bring economic investment to the community and to create innovative programs that will benefit the residents.”