Council Experience
Al Rios was elected to the South Gate City Council in April 2017 and was honored to be re-elected for a four-year term in November 2022. In 2021, he served as Mayor, where he led with heart, humility, and a vision for a stronger South Gate. As a council member, Al is a collaborative and forward-thinking leader who helps set policies and goals that shape the future of the city. His leadership is rooted in listening, building trust, and working alongside community members to ensure that South Gate continues to grow as a place where all residents can thrive.
Personal Life
Al was born in Tijuana, Mexico, spend early years in Boyle Heights and then moved to Southeast Los Angeles, South Gate. His first job was through a summer youth program in Los Angeles. It was there that Al got his first glimpse into how local government can positively impact the lives of everyday people. That early experience sparked a lifelong interest in public service and community programs.
As a proud first-generation college student, Al enrolled at East Los Angeles College (ELAC) before transferring to the University of Southern California (USC). He later pursued graduate studies in New York, attending City University of New York, Baruch College, further expanding his understanding of public policy and leadership.
Al is married and is a proud father of three adult children, all raised in South Gate. His children attended local public schools, and now his two granddaughters attend schools in South Gate.
He has called South Gate home for over 30 years. Al enjoys Sunday afternoons at South Gate Park. His experience as a longtime resident, parent, neighbor, and educator fuels his passion to serve his community with integrity. He believes in South Gate where every family has a voice, every child has a chance, and the community grows stronger together.
Professional Experience/Volunteer Work
For more than two decades, Al has served as a respected educational leader and community advocate dedicated to expanding opportunity and access for residents of South Gate and the surrounding Southeast Los Angeles region. As Dean of Academic Affairs and Professor of Political Science at East Los Angeles College (ELAC), Al has championed student success by increasing course offerings, strengthening student support services, and helping create a shuttle service connecting students to the main campus, removing barriers and making higher education more accessible.
Beyond his work in education, Al has been at the forefront of key community-driven initiatives that have improved quality of life for South Gate families. He led policy efforts that promote the safety and well-being of youth and families such as opposing the sale of alcohol in public parks. He also spearheaded the initiative to bring the HUB Cities Workforce Center to Tweedy Boulevard, expanding access to job training and employment resources for residents.
Committed to educational equity, Al led the effort to secure city funding for South Gate’s first tutorial program in partnership with the SELA Community Foundation, providing critical academic support to students. He continues to play a leading role in advocating for and advancing the development of the new ELAC Southeast Campus in South Gate, a transformative project that will expand higher education access for generations to come.
Al is a founding member of the SELA Collaborative. He remains a strong advocate for environmental justice and the health and well-being of seniors, youth, and working families. Known for his ability to bring people together and turn vision into action, Al remains deeply committed to building a stronger, more equitable South Gate.
Al continues to serve with purpose and passion on several key committees and boards:
- East Los Angeles Doctor’s Hospital – Board Member and Vice Chair
- East Los Angeles College Alumni Association – Charter member & Board Member
Awards and Honors
Al's leadership and commitment to serve have been recognized through several meaningful honors, including:
- Northgate Juntos - Certificate of Appreciation for Dedication to Empower and Uplift the Latino Community
- Spanish American Institute - Lincoln Award, first recipient
- City of Los Angeles Youth Advisory Council - Certificate of Appreciation
Hobbies and Interests
When he’s not serving his community, Al enjoys swimming, cycling, reading, and spending quality time with his family.
He’s a passionate advocate for both youth and seniors and remains deeply committed to creating a South Gate where every generation feels supported, seen, and inspired to reach their full potential.