City of Sacramento City Council Councilmember Katie Valenzuela

Katie Valenzuela was sworn in as the council representative of Sacramento’s District 4 on Dec. 15, 2020.  She garnered 53.3 percent of the vote on March 3, 2020, beating four-term incumbent Steve Hansen. District 4 encompasses the neighborhoods of Alder Grove, the central city, Land Park, Little Pocket, Marina Vista, River Oaks, South Land Park Estates and South Land Park Terrace. A map of District 4 is pictured here. 

Valenzuela’s seeks to increase the city’s accountability to the community. On her website, she outlines her plan to increase accountability: “As a resident and community organizer, I’m frustrated when elected officials don’t follow through on their promises. I have long expressed concerns about city decision-making and accountability, and have deep experience with community engagement that I’m ready to put to work for District 4.”

In an article from the Sacramento City Express, she comments on her election: “My election was really part of a movement that started before me and a movement that will go on after me. 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.”

First elected: Nov. 3, 2020

Alma maters: University of California, Davis, (master’s degree, community development; bachelor’s degree, community and regional development)

Notable quote: “Sacramento is at a crossroads. We are experiencing unprecedented housing prices and an unacceptable number of our neighbors are homeless. We also have opportunities to lead on climate and help our small businesses thrive, and get more people engaged in local policies and budgets. I’m running because I think this is the right time for Sacramento to show that it is possible to preserve our communities while creating opportunities for everyone to thrive.” (Source: Valenzuela’s campaign site)