Bob Whalen

Bob Whalen has been a Laguna Beach resident since 1984. He and his wife, Kirsten, raised their three children here, all of whom graduated from Laguna Beach schools.  Bob has served Laguna Beach as an elected official for over 22 years; first with a decade on the School Board followed by twelve years on the City Council. During this time, he has served five terms as Mayor, providing consistent leadership on key issues impacting the City.

As Mayor in both 2020 and 2021, Bob guided Laguna Beach through the Covid-19 Pandemic, focusing on protecting the health and safety of residents while helping local businesses recover. His dedication to public safety is evident in his efforts to enhance Police, Fire, and Marine Safety services. Bob also played a key role in improving emergency response by establishing an in-house ambulance program operated by the Fire Department. Under his leadership, the City implemented key recommendations from the Wildfire Mitigation and Fire Safety Report, aimed at reducing wildfire risk throughout the city, a critical issue given Laguna Beach’s high-fire severity zones.

Bob’s commitment to improving the quality of life for Laguna Beach residents extends beyond public safety. He helped to successfully negotiate the transfer of South Laguna beaches from the County to the City, ensuring local control over these vital coastal areas. He also led the acquisition of St. Catherine’s School, providing much-needed space for City recreation and community-serving programs. His work on the City Council includes championing affordable housing, securing expanded City funding for housing initiatives, and supporting the creation of a Housing Trust Fund and a Community Land Trust.

A strong advocate for environmental sustainability, Bob supported funding for Laguna Beach’s first Climate Action and Adaptation Plan. He also led the City’s first comprehensive Parking and Traffic Demand Management Plan to address long-standing transportation challenges. Additionally, Bob spearheaded the successful passage of Measure LL, which increased the hotel bed tax, raising millions of dollars to fund critical public safety programs.

Beyond his role in city governance, Bob has been an active member of the community through his service on the boards of several nonprofit organizations, including the Orange County Community Foundation, Project Youth, the Boys and Girls Club of Laguna Beach, SchoolPower, and the Laguna Art Museum. His ongoing contributions reflect a deep commitment to enhancing the safety, sustainability, and vibrancy of Laguna Beach for both residents and visitors alike.

Organizations & Committees

  • Laguna Art Museum Board
  • Orange County Library Advisory Committee
  • South Orange County Wastewater Authority
  • South Orange County Watershed Management Area Executive Committee
  • Audit Review & Investment Advisory City Council Liaison
  • Emergency & Disaster Preparedness Committee City Council Liaison
  • Housing & Human Services Committee City Council Liaison