New Alhambra Mayor Noya Wang was sworn into office on December 9, 2024, with her children by her side and husband, parents and friends in the audience (Photo – Emma P. Arambula)
ALHAMBRA — ColoradoBoulevard.net:
Alhambra’s newest council member, Nan “Noya” Wang was sworn into office on Monday, Dec. 9, 2024, and concurrently became Mayor.
By Ari Gutiérrez Arámbula
Alhambra council members rotate positions as Mayor every nine months. A resident of Alhambra for more than 10 years, Mrs. Wang was elected to Alhambra’s 4th District, vacated by former Mayor Perez who ran for State Senate. Councilmember Jeffrey Maloney, District 3, ran unopposed for his third and he states, likely final, four-year term.
Wang recently served on the Alhambra Planning Commission during its long work on the new Housing Element, a sub component of the City’s General Plan, and the completely updated Zoning Code. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Environmental Engineering and a Master of Science degree in Structural Engineering from UC Berkeley. She was the Public Works Director for the City of Rosemead, where she oversaw a staff of 30 and managed a Capital Improvement Program budget of over $50 million to improve parks, buildings, streets and transportation infrastructure. Moreover, she is a wife, mother of two young children, and a first-generation Asian-American Immigrant.
Mayor Wang graciously answered our questions about her readiness to lead and her vision for Alhambra:
As a first-time and newly elected council member, how do you feel about stepping in as Mayor? Do you feel prepared and experienced enough to take on that role for the City of Alhambra on day one?
I feel incredibly blessed to have served as the Chair of the Planning Commission and as a Public Works Director, leading a City Department. These roles have equipped me with invaluable experience and a deep understanding of municipal government operations.
I am ready to hit the ground running on day one as Mayor. After years of community involvement and countless conversations with residents, I’ve gained a strong understanding of our community’s needs and have a clear plan to address the issues that matter most to us.
Serving as Mayor is both an honor and a privilege. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve and make a difference in our fantastic city.
As Mayor, what are your priorities in supporting Alhambra’s prosperity and quality of life?
As Mayor, in collaboration with my council colleagues, city commissioners, and city staff, my priorities for enhancing Alhambra’s prosperity and quality of life focus on building a safe, vibrant, and inclusive community where residents and businesses can flourish. Here are my key focus areas:
– Public Safety
Ensuring the safety of our community is my top priority. I am committed to keeping our neighborhoods safe, enhancing traffic and pedestrian safety, and building resilient infrastructure to protect our city against natural disasters, such as earthquakes.
– Economic Growth
A thriving economy is essential for our city’s prosperity, and a robust infrastructure provides the foundation for economic growth. I aim to attract new businesses, support local entrepreneurs, and create opportunities for sustainable economic development while maintaining Alhambra’s unique charm.
– Housing and Sustainability
The next decade will present challenges as we navigate our state’s housing crisis. I am committed to addressing our housing needs by supporting responsible development that balances affordability, sustainability, and our community’s unique character.
Housing development must be carefully planned in coordination with our transportation and infrastructure needs to ensure harmonious and functional growth. I will draw on my experience and thoughtful approach to tackle these complex issues and create solutions that work for all residents.
– Education and Youth Engagement
I wouldn’t be where I am today without the opportunities the public education system provides. As a parent and volunteer in the Alhambra Unified School District, I am deeply committed to advocating for strong partnerships with our schools. I will continue supporting education and youth development, ensuring that future generations can access the opportunities that shaped my journey.
– Community Connection
Building a strong sense of community is essential. I am committed to fostering open communication with residents, making our city government more accessible and user-friendly, expanding meaningful public outreach to effectively engage the community in significant decision-making, and ensuring every voice is heard and valued in shaping Alhambra’s future.
By focusing on these priorities, I plan to help build a city that celebrates its diversity, supports its residents, and lays the groundwork for a bright and prosperous future.
Of her expectations in her new role as mayor and council member, Mayor Wang added, “I have a deep and empathetic understanding of the needs of our community and the work needed to truly make Alhambra work for all. I will work hard to ensure that all of us can afford the opportunities to establish roots and flourish in our beautiful city. Our best days are ahead of us, and I will play my role – in collaboration with all residents – to continue that journey.”
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