Norwalk Public Works Committee approves honorary naming of Woodward Avenue for Reverend Ramon Figueroa

The Public Works Committee voted to approve an honorary renaming of the section of Woodward Avenue from South Main Street to Burrett Avenue as "Reverend Ramon Figueroa Way" and will forward the measure to the Common Council for final consideration.

The measure was introduced at a public hearing March 4, when four community members spoke in favor of the naming, describing Figueroa’s decades of ministry and community service. Louis A. Rivera, identified himself as the senior pastor at Pentecostal Church John 3:16, and said the committee should “take in consideration our petition regarding to this particular issue.” Noel de Jesus said Figueroa’s preaching changed his life: “For 15 years that I was in the streets...by listening to the word of God...my life was transforming.” Doris de Jesus said the pastor “lived what he preached” and recounted hospital visits and family support, and Carmen Villalobos described Figueroa as “like my father, my spiritual father.” A letter from Felix Serrano in support was read into the record by Committee Member Darlene Young.

Committee members praised the testimonials and discussed process questions before voting. Member Heather Dunn asked whether adjacent property owners had been contacted, saying neighbors should have the opportunity to weigh in. Vanessa (staff member) and members noted the committee’s role is to forward the petition and that the city publishes public hearings in the newspaper; the committee may also request additional outreach from petitioners. Committee member Darlene Young reminded the panel that final approval requires a two-thirds vote of the Common Council (10 votes).

After discussion the committee took a vote and the chair announced a tally of committee responses; the motion was carried and will be sent to the Common Council for final action. Committee members recorded as voting in favor were Noor Nijelski Eitner, Barbara Smith, Darlene Young and one other member present; Heather Dunn stated she would abstain from the committee vote.

If the Common Council approves the measure by the required two-thirds vote, the affected portion of Woodward Avenue will carry the honorary name Reverend Ramon Figueroa Way. The committee did not set a timeline for final council action and asked that petitioners follow any notice or outreach requests the committee may make before the Common Council vote.