On Tuesday, November 19, 2019, Harry W. Rilling was sworn-in to a fourth two-year term as Mayor of Norwalk, Conn. in a special ceremony at Norwalk City Hall.
“I want to thank the voters of Norwalk for electing me to a fourth term as Mayor. I am grateful for their continued support and the trust they’ve put in my team and me to lead our city forward,” said Mayor Rilling. “I love this job, I am energetic, and I am passionate. I am excited for what the future holds for Norwalk. We have momentum going for us and I look forward to the next two years.”
The special ceremony included the posting of the colors by the Norwalk Color Guard, the National Anthem sung by the Brien McMahon High School Octet, the song Andante Festivo performed by the Norwalk High School String Quartet, and God Bless America sung by Jonathan Peters. Reverend Carleton Giles served as Master of Ceremonies, Reverend Lindsay Curtis gave the invocation, and Reverend Dr. Richard W. Clarke offered the benediction. State Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff administered the oath of office to Mayor Rilling, who was surrounded by members of his family.
“Harry Rilling works tirelessly for Norwalk. He’s prioritized investments in our schools and in our community. Thank you, Mayor, for keeping our city moving forward. We are excited about the next two years,” said Senator Duff.
Mayor Rilling was first elected Mayor in 2013 following a career with the Norwalk Police Department. Born and raised in Norwalk, Mayor Rilling graduated from Norwalk High School in 1965 and enlisted in the United States Navy in 1967, where he received an Honorable Discharge with the rank of E-5 in 1971. In September of 1971, he joined the Norwalk Police Department where he began his career as a patrolman. He rose through the ranks, and in 1987, was promoted to Deputy Chief. In May 1995, Mayor Rilling received his promotion to the rank of Chief of Police, where he served under three different mayors. Following his retirement in 2012, Mayor Rilling was appointed to the Norwalk Zoning Commission where he served until his election as Mayor.
Mayor Rilling’s two-year term runs from November 19, 2019 – November 16, 2021.