Candidate for
Council Member; City of Pleasant Hill

David's Bio

The Trail to Pleasant Hill

I was born in New York City in 1962. I was raised both in New York City and in the Los Angeles suburb of Studio City. I spent my college years in New Brunswick, New Jersey and Alexandria, Virginia. I obtained a degree in Political Science and Certificate in the Administration of Justice from Rutgers University in 1986. After living in suburban Seattle, Washington (Mountlake Terrace), I attended the University of Chicago School of Law, in Chicago, Illinois. I graduated with a law degree in 1990. After so many years living in a variety of large and small cities, Cindy and I did a lot of research before deciding to settle our young family in Pleasant Hill in 1990. And, we're so pleased that we moved here!

Getting Involved

My involvement in Pleasant Hill government started with my appointment to the Redevelopment Advisory Committee in 1993. I was appointed to the Pleasant Hill Planning Commission in 1996, and was selected Chair for '98-'99. I have served on the City Council since 1999, serving as Mayor and Redevelopment Agency Chair multiple times.

Legal Practice and Business Experience

I have practiced law since 1990, first at a large law firm, then at a large retailer, and since 2006 at an entrepreneurial enterprise, Blackhawk Network. As a General Counsel, I also serve as a business executive. I am responsible for my company's legal services team and its compliance team, and serve on its executive committee. Like me, my teams focus on service, results, and pragmatic problem-solving, but never at the expense of quality. And, of course, we focus on the bottom line.

Community Service

I am deeply committed to public service and improving our world. I've regularly worked to protect fundamental rights and human dignity through my legal work, my public service and my work with numerous non-profit agencies. To some, my commitment to service may sound idealistic or corny. But, for me, it's a way of life I credit to both my mother and my grandmother.

Growing up, volunteerism was taught in word and deed all around me. My mother was a political activist, among other things, who worked on many campaigns. When I was very young, she had me handing out literature for things like political campaigns and for the creation of a community center. My grandmother was a devoted volunteer for her church, for "the needy" and for others. Even in her later years, she went out of her way to help those "less fortunate" than herself. Together, my mother and grandmother taught me about fairness, equality, and the importance of giving back. They also taught me about the value of hard work, the importance of fighting for what's right, and the necessity of working hard to leave the world a little bit better for you having been in it.

The Rest of the Story

In my spare time, I tend to be a homebody. I enjoy spending time quietly at home. I'm also an avid lover of music, family, board games, travel, and good conversation. And, I love spending time with my grandchildren, Josh and Abby!

More about David: http://www.durant4ph.com/about_david