Candidate for
Council Member; City of Los Angeles; District 9

David Roberts was born in LA and raised by his mother, Linda, an LAUSD teacher for 30 years, and father, Herbert, a Director at the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development for 40 years. Both of his parents instilled in him a deep faith and confidence that public service matters and government can make positive changes in people's lives. After graduating from Bishop Montgomery High School in Torrance, CA, he received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and a minor in Business Administration from the University of California at Los Angeles.

Before he decided to run for elected office, David worked for the University of Southern California's Government Relations Office, after eleven years with the City of Los Angeles. USC is a major economic engine, not only for Los Angeles, but also for District 9 itself. It generates $5 billion in economic activity across the region and is the largest private employer in the City of Los Angeles, with 22,000 faculty and staff.

As the Associate Director for Local Government Relations David represented the University with City and County government on matters related to local policy, planning, construction, regulation and legislation. His experience working with these stakeholders will allow him to smoothly execute important projects in City Hall.

Prior to joining USC, David served on the staff of former City Councilmember Mark Ridley-Thomas (1998-2002), as well as current City Councilmember Bernard C. Parks (2003-2009). As the Deputy for Economic Development, he focused on financing, planning, transportation, workforce development and inner-city redevelopment. During his tenure David was recognized as a leader in efforts to revitalize South Los Angeles, helping to oversee and entitle over $2 billion worth of development highlighted by Class A commercial office buildings, restaurants, retail, new and rehabilitated housing units, green streetscape enhancements, libraries, educational and cultural institutions, as well as several dozen capital park projects.

In 2009, the Los Angeles Neighborhood Initiative cited his skill, expertise and passion when they honored him with their Outstanding City Partner Award. David was recently among 15 emerging leaders to be selected for the American Marshall Memorial Fellowship. The Marshall Memorial Fellowship alumni network includes nearly 2,000 American and European leaders who are knowledgeable about and committed to the transatlantic relationship. During a month long trip to five cities across the European continent in Spring 2011, he met with policy makers and learned about the institutions and people that drive Europe's cities, regions, countries and multilateral systems.

David serves on numerous local boards and commissions including the Figueroa Corridor Partnership Business Improvement District, Friends of EXPO Center, Los Angeles City Council Redistricting Commission, Los Angeles Department of Water and Power Recycled Water Advisory Group, Proposition K Advisory Group for park improvements and the Los Angeles Trade Tech Citizens Advisory Committee.