Renton Councilmember Ruth Pérez Launches Reelection Bid

RENTON, WA — Renton City Councilmember Ruth Pérez is seeking another term representing Position 6. She was first appointed to fill a vacant seat on the council in 2014, secured election to a full term in 2015, then overcame a challenger for reelection in 2017.

In an official campaign announcement this week, Pérez highlighted her extensive history in public service, including time on several regional boards, each of the council committees, and as the council president during the coronavirus pandemic. Currently, she chairs the council's public safety committee and the Renton Regional Fire Authority's governing board. Pérez is also the first Latina and immigrant elected in Renton, the campaign said.

"Since joining the City Council six years ago, representing the residents of Renton and fighting for our needs has been my top priority," she said. "As we work to rebuild our economy after the pandemic, it is imperative to center the needs of our community in the decision making process. I am committed to leading Renton into our next chapter with a focus on collaboration. Because when we work together, commit to protecting the rights of our community and unite instead of divide our community — we all win."

Among her top priorities moving forward, Pérez highlighted several areas of focus.

"Over the years, our city has been blessed with tremendous energy and prosperity but now it faces many challenges requiring strong leadership and commitment to develop smart policy solutions," she said. "As a Renton City Councilmember, I will keep working to ensure Renton is a place people are proud to call home, focusing on the issues that truly impact our residents’ everyday lives – working to ensure a strong economy, bringing more jobs, reducing crime and homelessness, supporting inclusive policies, tackling our city’s transportation and traffic issues, expanding access to housing, and balancing a sustainable municipal budget."

Before serving on the council, Pérez worked as a television reporter, founded three magazines, and worked at the Mexican consulate in Seattle. The campaign noted she was also voted the city's "Best Elected Official" in 2018 and 2019 and received a "Woman of the Year" award in 2016. According to her City Council profile, Perez lives with her husband, Al, in Renton's Snake Lake Neighborhood with their three dogs.

Voters can find more information on the candidate's platform on her official campaign website.