Yesterday was an exciting day for the City of Alhambra as incoming Councilmember Noya Wang was sworn in as mayor. Local, county, and state-level elected officials and representatives attended the city council meeting to share their congratulations to Mayor Wang, re-elected Councilmember Jeff Maloney, and newly elected California State Senator Sasha Renée Pérez.
With a background in civil and structural engineering, Wang is the Public Works Director for the City of Rosemead and has served as chair of the Planning Commission for the City of Alhambra. She is dedicated to creating safer streets in Alhambra, promoting sustainability efforts, and supporting local businesses and families.
“This moment feels truly special for me as I return to this seat where it all started. Four years ago, I was appointed to the Planning Commission,” Wang said in her speech. “It was those years that I saw the power of local government. It’s capable of solving problems and making a difference in peoples’ lives. It was during those years I discovered my passion for policy and the joy of working hand in hand with our community.”
Wang thanked her fellow planning commissioners, city staff, family, and the community for their support. She also shared a quote from her godmother Lisa, which she said inspired her on her journey campaigning for the city council: “Throughout history, and in every culture, building community and serving others has been how we find peace and endure hardship. To be an elected official is a challenging way of building a community but it’s one of the most important.”
“I’m committed to thoughtful and inclusive decision making to make sure that no one is left behind in our community. The conversation I’ve had with many of you throughout my campaign on your doorstep will continue to guide me in my decision making and that will be the front and center of my work here as mayor,” Wang said. “Together with my council colleagues, with our staff, commissioners, and each and every one of you in our community, we’ll build an Alhambra that reflects the best of our community. Our best days are ahead of us and I’m ready to get to work. Thank you.”
Councilmember Jeff Maloney ran unopposed for his third consecutive term on the council, which he said would likely be his last due to the three-term limit. He would have to wait four years after his term ends to run again. “I appreciate the opportunity and look forward to a productive four years,” he said. “I love it here and really enjoy all the work that we’ve done.”
Senator Pérez was also in attendance to congratulate Wang and Maloney, and part of the council meeting was dedicated to her farewell. Representatives from local, county, and state gave certificates of recognition and words of congratulations to all three council members, including representatives of Congresswoman Judy Chu, San Gabriel, Temple City, Arcadia, Monterey Park, AUSD, Assemblymember Mike Fong, LA County Supervisor Hilda Solis, and AAAE.