Deborah Robertson, Mayor of Rialto, embarked on her journey as a dedicated public servant when she was first elected mayor in 2012. Before her tenure, she contributed to the city’s leadership as a Council Member from 2000 to 2012. Her commitment to the city and its residents has been reaffirmed through her re-election every four years, demonstrating the trust and confidence the community places in her leadership.
Mayor Robertson’s tenure is marked by significant milestones that have propelled Rialto to national recognition. Notably, under her leadership, Rialto became a pioneer in adopting body-worn camera technology for police officers, through a groundbreaking federally funded pilot project. She also spearheaded a landmark public-private partnership for the city’s water and wastewater systems, facilitating critical infrastructure improvements without immediate financial burdens on residents. These initiatives, among others, highlight her innovative approach to governance and her commitment to sustainable development, economic growth, and environmental stewardship.
In 2014, Mayor Robertson’s efforts led to Rialto being recognized as the first e3p3 Model City, a testament to her commitment to environmental sustainability, economic development, and equity through public-private partnerships. Her leadership has not only advanced local initiatives but also gained her prestigious appointments, such as her role on the Environmental Protection Agency Local Government Advisory Committee in 2021, appointed by the Biden-Harris Administration. This role underscores her influence and dedication to addressing critical environmental challenges on a national scale.
Mayor Robertson’s extensive service also includes participation on various boards and committees, reflecting her broad impact across regional and national landscapes. Her roles range from Co-Chair of the Water Council for the US Conference of Mayors to serving on the Southern California Association of Governments. Under Mayor Robertson’s leadership, Rialto has seen substantial economic progress, navigating financial challenges to emerge as a city with a bright future. Initiatives such as Measure M have secured a stable revenue stream, supporting sustainable homeownership and fostering public-private partnerships that contribute to a greener, more resilient city. In recognition of her exemplary service, Mayor Robertson has received numerous awards and honors, including the Justice Earl Warren Outstanding Public Service Award and the Community Icon Award, which acknowledge her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the community.
Mayor Robertson’s career began in transportation, where she retired as the Deputy District Director of External Affairs for Caltrans, District 7. A proud native Californian, she holds degrees in Urban Planning and Public Administration from the University of California, San Diego, and the City University of New York, Bernard Baruch College, respectively. Since 1988, she has called Rialto home, cherishing it as “the Jewel of the Inland Empire.” Mayor Robertson’s extensive involvement with numerous committees and boards, including the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority and the Southern California Association of Governments, underscores her multifaceted approach to governance, aiming to improve the quality of life for Rialto residents and contribute to the broader community’s well-being.
