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Councilors consider renaming 'Common Council' to 'City Council' in charter
Summary
Council member Johan Lopez proposed renaming Norwalk’s legislative body from 'Common Council' to 'City Council'; councilors generally supported the change while asking about cost and implementation timing.
NORWALK, Conn. — A recommendation to rename the Norwalk Common Council as the “City Council” drew broad, mostly favorable comment at a July 2025 charter revision workshop, with members discussing cost, implementation and public clarity.
Council member Miss Nijalski Eichner introduced the idea on behalf of Council member Johan Lopez, who was late to the meeting. She described Lopez’s rationale, saying he had recommended changing “the name of the common council to the city council as is, the case in most other cities throughout the entire country.” Nijalski Eichner said the term common council is “old fashioned” and can confuse residents.
Council member Burnett asked whether the name change would be expensive. Attorney Mednick said the charter can include transitional language so that references to “Common Council” in ordinances would be interpreted as the new name, avoiding the need to reprint or formally amend every existing municipal ordinance immediately. He noted some stationery and signage might be updated over time.
Several council members said the change may reduce public confusion. Miss Shanahan said constituents frequently do not recognize the term common council; others suggested the change could be phased in as materials are replaced.
The council did not vote. Members indicated general support but asked staff to consider cost‑minimizing implementation options and to include the change in the packet of proposed charter amendments for further review.
Why it matters: Changing the body’s formal name affects statutory language, public outreach and municipal branding; a transitional approach can limit short‑term expense.
What’s next: Council staff will assess implementation logistics and include the proposal among charter amendment options forwarded to the charter commission and the public hearing process.
