Controversy has been swirling around the Ward 1 race since School Committee member Joesiah Gonzalez announced he would challenge his former co-worker Maria Perez for the City Council seat she had held for two terms.

In July, the New North Citizens’ Council board announced in a press release that Perez, a 40-year housing program manager, had been fired for violating its political engagement policies.

Perez has denied any inappropriate actions and is suing.

Shortly after, Gonzalez was exposed by a fellow board member for orchestrating the creation of a press release that inferred the firing was over embezzlement accusations. The agency later rescinded the press release.

Ahead of Tuesday, Nov. 4, The Republican reached out to all candidates for the opposed City Council and School Commit

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