The love of a good woman brought me to Pleasant Hill. But it’s the love of a good city that keeps me here some 20 years later...”

I’m proud to be one of Pleasant Hill’s most active proponents. Elected to the City Council in 2002 and again in 2006 and 2010, I am committed to advancing the quality of life in our city. To this end, I’ve played a leading role on our Planning Commission, Redevelopment Agency, and General Plan Task Force. I’ve served three terms as your Mayor. Being Mayor was a true highlight in my over 30 years of public service, allowing me to contribute at the highest local level.

One of my proudest contributions is the introduction of our award winning Community Service Day, now entering its tenth year. What a thrill to be among hundreds of residents of all ages pitching in to help make Pleasant Hill a better place for all of us! I also established the Pleasant Hill Education Initiative, a community-wide volunteer effort to enhance educational opportunities for Pleasant Hill students.

An enthusiastic supporter of community groups and causes, I take great pleasure in my involvement with the City’s Chamber of Commerce, Friends of Rodgers Ranch, the Pleasant Hill Community Foundation, our Senior Center, and the Foundation for Pleasant Hill Education. I currently Chair the City’s Library Task Force. I am Chair of the Irvin Deutscher Family YMCA and was Chair the County’s Managed Care Commission. I served as Chair of the Contra Costa County Mayors’ Conference and President of the East Bay Division of the League of California Cities.

But without a doubt, the most fun I have comes from my involvement with the kids of our community and their public schools. I volunteer at local schools on a regular basis. I sponsor City Hall tours, mock City Council meetings, and Mayor-for-a-Day programs that raise money for our schools.

And, yes, I do have a life outside of my civic and community commitments. For 50 years, I have been a member of the faculty of the University of California Berkeley where I served as Professor of Optometry, Contact Lens Clinic Chief, and Associate Dean. My dedication to Cal persists to this day in my roles as Professor Emeritus, teacher, mentor, consultant, and fundraiser for the School of Optometry.

I love to read. I write a monthly book review column for a local paper. I exercise daily, including yoga, Pilates and strength training. I’m still married to Dawn Block, that woman who first brought me to Pleasant Hill. Family is very important to me. We love spending time with our four children and young grandson. And yes, I still love Pleasant Hill!

Contact Mayor Harris

Council Subcommittees

• Library Committee
• Recreation & Park District Liaison Committee
• School District Task Force

Council Assignments

• Mayors' Conference
• East Bay Division—League of California Cities
• Pleasant Hill Library Task Force