Three new members of Sacramento City Council on Tuesday were officially sworn into office during a ceremony that was held virtually due to the pandemic.
Sean Loloee, owner of Viva Supermarkets, is the newest member representing District 2, which includes the neighborhoods of Del Paso Heights, Hagginwood, Woodlake and Robla in northern Sacramento. Loloee replaces Allen Warren who was councilmember from 2012 to 2020.
“I’m also very humbled and also honored to be joining my colleagues within City Hall,” said Loloee, who was sworn in by City Clerk Mindy Cuppy. “… We can set Sacramento as an example of what a compassionate and giving city is supposed to be.”
Katie Valenzuela, a consultant for environmental justice groups, is the newest member representing District 4, which includes downtown and midtown, River Oaks, Land Park, South Land Park and Little Pocket neighborhoods. Valenzuela replaces Steve Hansen who was councilmember from 2012 to 2020.
“My election was really part of movement that started before me and a movement that will go on after me,” said Valenzuela, who was sworn in by her mother. “To all of the activists and organizers and troublemakers — good trouble — that are out there still doing the work today, my victory is a big thanks to you and the work that you’ve done.”
Mai Vang, executive director of the Buck Scholars Association, is the newest member representing District 8, which includes Meadowview, Parkway, North Laguna Creek and Jacinto Creek neighborhoods in southern Sacramento. Vang replaces Larry Carr who was councilmember from 2014 to 2020.
“As a child of Hmong refugees and the oldest of 16 children, I am always reminded that I am truly an embodiment of my ancestors’ wildest dreams,” said Vang, who was sworn in by her high school teacher Jean Crowder. “I also know that I stand on the shoulder of many who came before me … all the incredible, amazing women that have paved the way so that Katie and I and Councilmember (Angelique) Ashby could be here today.”
Darrell Steinberg was sworn in to his second term as mayor on Tuesday night, saying that it was the ninth time he has been sworn into public office. “I know that the first time, especially for new offices, is so special, but it never gets old. And it is always meaningful because to be able to serve in public office is a rare opportunity and a rare responsibility.”
Eric Guerra was sworn in for a third term as Councilmember for District 6, representing Campus Commons, Sierra Oaks and areas of Tahoe Park and Little Saigon.
The City of Sacramento is made up of eight districts represented by one member and one mayor at large. Each serves a four-year term. City Council generally meets three times each month on Tuesdays at 2 or 5 p.m.