Councilmember John Heilman
Councilmember John Heilman
After receiving a bachelor of science degree from Northwestern University, Cleveland native John Heilman moved to Southern California to attend the University of Southern California Law School. He was an editor of the school's Law Review and graduated in 1982. He currently teaches law at both Whittier Law School and the University of Southern California Law School. He was recently voted Professor of the Year at Whittier Law School.
Councilmember Heilman was active in the incorporation of the City of West Hollywood. He was elected to the City's first City Council in November 1984 and he has served continuously on the City Council since that time. Heilman was chosen as the City's second Mayor in 1985. He also served as Mayor in 1990, 1995, 1999, 2001 and 2006.
Since his earliest days on the City Council, one of Heilman's strongest concerns has been affordable housing. Heilman was instrumental in the establishment of the West Hollywood Community Housing Corporation, a City-funded organization that develops affordable housing in West Hollywood. He also helped develop the City's landmark Rent Stabilization Ordinance and inclusionary housing policy.
Councilmember Heilman has been an active member of the National League of Cities. He has served on the board of both the National League of Cities and the California League of Cities. He is a past board member of the American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California and the Local Government Commission. He is also the past president of the Gay, Lesbian and Bisexual Local Officials Group and past co-chair of the International Network of Lesbian and Gay Officials.
Councilmember Heilman helped create the City's recycling program and Senior Advisory Council. He founded the City's Russian Advisory Board in an attempt to integrate the City's Russian-speaking residents into the City's decision making process. As a result of his leadership on the issue of AIDS, he received the U.S. Conference of Councilmember's Award in 1990. Heilman also works closely with the City's business community, serving as the City Council's liaison to the West Hollywood Convention and Visitors Bureau.
Councilmember Heilman wants West Hollywood to maintain its diversity along with its sense of community. The entire City Council, he says, is "committed to keeping this a diverse community that sets its own fate."
You can contact Councilmember John Heilman at West Hollywood City Hall through his deputy, Fran Solomon, at (323)848-6460.