Deborah Robertson

Expert in Environmental Sustainability and Public Policy

NRDC-IE Industry Expert Ranking: Tier 1 – Policy Impact Leader

Rate: $250/hour

EXPERT BIOGRAPHY

Deborah Robertson is a respected policy maker, urban strategist, and advocate for sustainable city systems. Serving as Mayor of Rialto, California since 2012—and as a City Council Member for 14 years prior—she has spearheaded major public infrastructure and sustainability projects with a deep focus on economic equity. Her work sits at the intersection of smart growth, clean energy, and community health.

Deborah began her public sector career with the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), where she gained over 20 years of experience in transportation planning, engineering, and operations. She later served on the Executive Committee of the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), overseeing regional plans for housing, sustainability, and transportation equity across six counties.

As Mayor, Deborah led the development of the Rialto Renaissance Parkway Project, a large-scale infrastructure improvement funded through a combination of state, federal, and private investment. She also established one of the state’s earliest citywide climate action plans for a mid-sized municipality, aligning Rialto with California’s long-term greenhouse gas emission goals. Her leadership helped secure over $50 million in funded grants and matching investments through the U.S. Department of Transportation, EPA, CalRecycle, and more.

Deborah is also known for promoting inclusive economic growth through public-private partnerships, including developments that brought clean manufacturing, job centers, and affordable housing to Inland Empire communities. She has earned awards from the League of California Cities and the California State Assembly for her visionary leadership in community development and environmental stewardship.

As a frequent speaker and advisor to local governments and councils, Deborah provides guidance on navigating complex intergovernmental relationships, designing inclusive infrastructure, and aligning sustainability goals with economic development.