Biography of Sony Peronel

Sony Peronel joined the City of Corpus Christi in 2019 with a focus centered on enhancing the City’s departments. He planned and created the City’s first budget initiative work plan. While overseeing operations of a multi-million-dollar budget and several City departments including Communications, Intergovernmental Affairs, and Information Technology, he envisioned and oversaw the implementation of key initiatives including the establishment of a new 311 Call Center and 311 app, which have helped countless residents with more than 10,000 calls a month 

In addition to serving as the Assistant to the City Manager, where he oversaw 3 departments, provided high-level support in managing a $1.5 billion operating and capital budget for an organization with 3,500 employees, he advanced to the role of Assistant City Manager. In this position, he currently oversees eight departments, including the Public Library System, Communications, Intergovernmental Affairs, Information Technology, Animal Care Services, the Health District, Solid Waste Services, and the Gas Department. 

His vision and strategic development resulted in the creation of the City’s new website, the establishment of the first Marketing Division and Community Engagement Division within the Communications Department and provided guidance to leadership for the creation of the Economic Development Department. 

Sony is committed to promoting efficient operations and responsible governance in the city. Prior to his tenure in Corpus Christi, he accumulated over 11 years of experience in municipal roles, including positions within the Office of Management and Budget and the City Manager's Office in the City of San Antonio. 

Sony spearheaded Safe Fun Fit, one of Texas’ longest-standing free fitness programs, expanding access to health and wellness for residents. His leadership also launched Endurance Fest, a three-day event that strengthens community engagement and enhances quality of life by promoting active, healthy living in Corpus Christi. 

Sony holds graduate and undergraduate degrees from the University of Central Florida: a Master's degree in Urban and Regional Planning and a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science. the. Sony is deeply involved in the Corpus Christi community, serving as an Associate Commissioner for Buc Days and as a Community Investment Panelist for United Way of the Coastal Bend. In 2023, he was recognized as one of Corpus Christi’s 40 Under 40, and in 2024, he received the H. Boyd Hall Chapter of the NAACP’s prestigious President’s Award. 

Sony is also an active member of the International City/County Management Association (ICMA), the Texas Municipal League (TML), and the National Forum for Black Public Administrators (NFBPA). 

Sony calls Corpus Christi home and enjoys everything our beautiful city has to offer with his wife and their rescue dog Tiki.