Heading to Sacramento, Blanca Pacheco resigns from Downey city council

DOWNEY — Mayor Blanca Pacheco is officially mayor-no-more, having officially resigned to make way for her swearing in as the representative of the 64th State Assembly District on Monday.

Pacheco announced her resignation via her social media channels over the weekend, saying: 

“Yesterday I signed my letter of resignation. Due to my winning my State Assembly election I will be resigning from Downey City Council effective Sunday, December 4th at 11:59 pm. I will get sworn in as Assemblymember for the 64th District on Monday at noon. It has been a rewarding experience to serve on City Council and as Mayor. Truly honored to have the support of the city I grew up in and look forward to continue my service at the state level.”

Pacheco was reelected in 2020, and had just under two years remaining on her term.

Pacheco’s departure leaves Mayor Pro Tem Catherine Alvarez as acting mayor until the city council selects a new mayor next week. The mayor pro tem is usually considered to be the next in line as mayor, however, that does not always end up being the case.

Alvarez is scheduled to face a recall election Jan. 31 next year.

With Pacheco now gone, the city council is left with only four members and without a representative for District 1. Due to the time left on Pacheco’s term, a special election will be required to fill her vacancy.