Growing up in a working-class neighborhood near Downtown San Jose, Bob had the opportunity to appreciate the values of hard work and self-reliance that were the hallmarks of the many immigrants and long-time San Jose residents that were his neighbors. Raised by his single mother and four older sisters, economic uncertainty sometimes made life a challenge.  But his family home was full of love and security. 

After a family move to Milpitas, Bob became interested in government. At the age of 20, Bob became a member of the Milpitas City Council, the youngest Councilman in the history of Milpitas, and at the time, the youngest City Councilman in California. He went on to be re-elected to 7 City Council terms, and 3 terms as the City’s directly elected Mayor. 

During his elected service to Milpitas, Bob worked tirelessly to provide economic opportunity  to the City and helped create the necessary infrastructure that businesses needed. As a result, dozens of Fortune 500 companies opened offices in Milpitas, providing jobs and revenues to the community.  One of Bob’s top priorities was improving public safety for city residents.  Bob protected our environmental assets as well.  He established urban growth boundaries and hillside protections in Milpitas so that our County’s natural resources could be protected 

After his final term as Mayor ended, Bob began a new phase in his life-long public service career, joining the City of Santa Clara Police Department as a reserve police officer. Assisting Santa Clara’s full time police force at events held at Levi’s Stadium, Bob has been able to help make sure that the stadium and the neighborhoods it impacts are safe for Santa Clara residents, event participants, staff, attendees, and his fellow officers. 

Bob’s municipal background provides him with an excellent understanding of how government agencies can work together to provide high quality and cost effective services to the public.  And Bob’s experience as a successful business owner means he has the skills and judgment to make sound financial decisions in the interests of the community.  His depth of experience, and proven track record as a consensus builder, makes him uniquely qualified to serve as a Trustee on the San Jose/Evergreen Community College District Board.

Bob graduated Summa Cum Laude from Southern New Hampshire University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice. He has studied hydrology, water public policy, and water management through the University of Colorado. He earned an Associate Degree from San Jose City College and graduated from Samuel Ayer High School in Milpitas.

BOB’S EXPERIENCE

• Former Mayor of Milpitas

• Former Councilmember on the Milpitas City Council

• Reserve Police Officer, Santa Clara Police Department

• Businessman/Non-Profit Management

Community Colleges occupy a unique place in our society, providing affordable college credits, and much needed vocational training for those seeking skilled labor professions. I graduated from San Jose City College myself, giving me firsthand knowledge of their value to our community.

My experience as a businessman and nonprofit manager gives me a unique perspective on how to maximize tax dollars, while balancing the needs of a growing population that is more diverse every day. I will encourage our schools to continue emphasizing the values of diversity, social justice, and tolerance. Our colleges can be a beacon of hope and strength for all of us.

As Mayor of Milpitas, I always helped our local schools. I insisted that land be preserved in the newer sections of Milpitas for a new elementary school, and I successfully spearheaded efforts to build a new library in Milpitas.

It’s time for new leadership on our college board. With your vote, I will work for changes that ensure a bright future for our community college students.

Sincerely,

Bob Livengood