Kings County Supervisors Restore Four Avenal City Council Seats to Ballot After Ricardo Verdugo Appoints Himself Mayor
The Kings County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to place four Avenal City Council seats back onto the November ballot, moving to restore representation following weeks of civic instability. This decision came just one day after Councilmember Ricardo Verdugo appointed himself mayor in a contentious meeting. The action, spearheaded by Supervisor Richard Valle, is intended to resolve months of turmoil stemming from the highly disputed recall election of April. Voters had overwhelmingly approved the recall of Mayor Alvaro Preciado, and councilmembers Leticia Gamez, David Reyonas, and Pablo Hernandez. While recalling officials refused to step down, the board moved forward to secure a path for election. City Manager Antony V. Lopez noted that Verdugo's meeting lacked a quorum, undermining his self-appointment. Board Chairman Doug Verboon stated supervisors were acting on behalf of frustrated residents demanding an end to the political dispute. The move asserts the authority of county government to shepherd the city toward orderly governance ahead of the general election.