Joshua Sweeney, Mayor

Dedication to Public Service

As the Mayor of Laguna Hills, I am honored to serve the city I love and call home. Laguna Hills is not just where I live—it’s where I’ve built my life, my family, and my future. I am committed to making sure that every resident feels valued and that our city continues to thrive as a safe, vibrant, and inclusive community.

Even though Laguna Hills is not a large city, I strongly believe we can and should have a powerful presence. Far too often, smaller cities are overshadowed by larger ones and overlooked in Sacramento and Washington, D.C. I am determined to ensure that Laguna Hills’ voice is heard, advocating for our community’s needs and fighting for the city I hold so dear to my heart.

Vision and Philosophy

My philosophy as a public servant is rooted in the belief that leadership is about service. I believe in the principles of servant leadership—listening first, putting others’ needs before my own, and acting with humility and integrity. Public officials should never forget that they are here to serve the people, and I strive to embody that responsibility in every decision I make.

My “why” as a public servant is simple: I want to build a city where everyone feels seen, heard, and supported. I am committed to being a leader who is approachable, relatable, and honest. I know that the challenges we face as a community are best solved together, through collaboration and mutual respect.

Professional Background and Leadership Experience

I bring a unique combination of experiences that help me lead with understanding and empathy.

Engineering: My background in engineering has shaped how I approach problems—with meticulous attention to detail, logic, and a drive to find innovative solutions.
Small Business Owner: As a small business owner, I know firsthand the dedication, hard work, and passion that drive our local economy. I understand the struggles and triumphs of business owners who contribute so much to our community.
Healthcare: My work in healthcare has deepened my understanding of people’s needs. It has taught me the importance of listening, compassion, and addressing the challenges people face in a meaningful way.

These experiences have shaped me as a leader who can relate to people from all walks of life. I strive to be someone who truly understands the needs of our community and works tirelessly to address them.

Regional and Statewide Advocacy

I proudly represent Laguna Hills on several boards and committees, ensuring that our city’s voice is heard on both regional and statewide levels. I serve on the Board of Directors for the Orange County Fire Authority, contributing to the Budget & Finance and Human Resources Committees. I am also the 2nd Vice President of the Executive Committee for the Association of California Cities Orange County (ACCOC), where I chair the Energy, Environment, and Water Committee.

I actively support the Orange County Professional Firefighters Association (OCPFA), which represents over 1,100 professional firefighters. I am honored to host an annual fundraiser for the Fallen Firefighter Relief Fund to support those who put their lives on the line for our safety.

Additionally, I support the Sheriff’s Advisory Council for the Orange County Sheriff’s Department and advocate for Laura’s House, which provides critical shelter, counseling, and resources for individuals and families impacted by domestic violence.

Community and Personal Life

My dedication to public service is deeply personal. As a husband and father, I want Laguna Hills to be a place where families can thrive, where businesses can grow, and where everyone feels a sense of belonging.

When I’m not working as Mayor, I enjoy spending time with my family and pursuing activities that connect me to our beautiful city—whether it’s hiking, biking, or practicing martial arts. I’m also a long-time member of Toastmasters, continually improving my communication and leadership skills to better serve our residents.

Commitment to Laguna Hills’ Future

As your Mayor, I want to build a Laguna Hills that reflects the best of who we are: a community that listens to one another, supports one another, and grows together. I believe leadership is about serving others, and I am here to serve the people of this great city.

My vision is to create a city where everyone feels empowered to reach their full potential. Whether it’s advocating for our needs in Sacramento and Washington, or making decisions that shape our future, I am committed to ensuring Laguna Hills remains a safe, prosperous, and welcoming place for all.

If you see me around town, I hope you’ll stop and say hello—I’m always here to listen, learn, and work alongside you to make our city the best it can be.