Norwalk Challenger Marcel Rodarte to Request Formal Recount in close election between him and Embattled Councilman Mike Mendez

I got news about the Norwalk City Council Election that was held on March 3rd.

Norwalk City Council candidate, Marcel Rodarte (seen left) is officially asking Norwalk City Clerk Theresa De Voy (above) for a recount of the March 3rd election.

Only 18 votes stand between Rodarte and embattled incumbent Mike Mendez. Incumbent Cheri Kelley was reelected.

Here is the official word on the Recount Request from the Rodarte Campaign:

Norwalk City Council candidate Marcel Rodarte to request formal recount of March 3rd election.


(Norwalk, Ca.)
March 22, 2009, 5 p.m. PST

For Immediate Release

Norwalk City Council candidate Marcel Rodarte is requesting a formal recount of the March 3rd Norwalk City Council election. Only 18 votes stand between Rodarte and Incumbent Mike Mendez for the second of two seats. Incumbent Cheri Kelley received top vote and was re-elected.

The results of the election were certified by the Norwalk City Council at its meeting last Tuesday. March 17. This was the closest election since Norwalk incorporated in the late 1950’s.

California election law allows for any candidate or resident the opportunity to request a formal hand- recount of any election up to 5 working days after the results are certified.

Rodarte, a Quality Specialist with the Department of Defense, informed Norwalk City Clerk Theresa Devoy of his intentions for requesting the recount last Friday afternoon, and will finalize details this Monday.

“Too many ballots need to be reviewed, and the only way to insure that our election process is conducted openly and honestly is to have a formal, legal and responsible recount of all ballots that were cast,” Rodarte announced to his supporters on Sunday.

“This recount is not about me, but it is about making sure that the People of Norwalk are represented fairly and honestly, and to make sure that the integrity of our Democratic Process is preserved,” said Rodarte.

Supporters of the Recount will be holding a grassroots event at “Steam City Grill” next Saturday, March 28th from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Steam City Grill is located at the corner of Norwalk Blvd. and 166th Street at 16480 Norwalk Blvd.

For more information call 562 639 6736.

Note:
Thanks for the update Marcel, and elections are NEVER over, till they ARE OFFICIALLY OVER. More to follow, MUCH MUCH MORE!