Avenal, Calif.’s mayor and three City Council members had defied a certified recall vote by residents, refusing to leave their positions. A city official has stated they will now comply and step down.
On Monday, a judge deemed these officials, including the long-serving mayor and three council members, “not lawfully” in their roles since the April recall. This case has been marked by significant tension and is considered one of California’s most chaotic recall disputes.
Judge Jennifer Giuliani of Kings County Superior Court asserted in her ruling that the four City Council members “do not lawfully hold or exercise their respective offices” and noted the positions have been “vacant” since May 28, when election results were confirmed.
The ultimate issue is not close. The court must uphold the will of the electorate, and Avenal voters have spoken decisively.
While acknowledging a procedural flaw in the election process, Judge Giuliani emphasized that this irregularity did not impact the election’s outcome or integrity. Rejecting the recall results, she stated, would undermine democratic principles.
The court also determined that recalled mayor Alvaro Preciado can run in the upcoming city general election on Nov. 3.
City Manager Antony V. López commented, “We respect the court’s decision.” He added that the ruling validates the city’s decision to seek judicial guidance instead of relinquishing its municipal authority.