Profiles in Service - June 10, 2019

Kathryn Barger

Board Member
County Supervisor
Los Angeles County, Calif. 

Number of years involved in NACo: Nearly three years

Years in public service: Over 30 years

Occupation: Los Angeles County Supervisor

Education: Bachelor of Arts from Ohio Wesleyan University

The hardest thing I’ve ever done is: Running for office for the first time — a challenge that was well worth it! I am so honored to represent an incredible district and I am passionate about providing my constituents with quality programs and responsive service.

Three people (living or dead) I’d invite to dinner: I would invite great historic figures whose leadership helped guide our world through tough times — Abraham Lincoln, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Margaret Thatcher.

A dream I have is to: Finally ensure those with mental illness get the life-saving care they need.

You’d be surprised to learn: I never planned to seek elective office but after many years in public service, I’m very grateful for the opportunity to serve in this capacity.

I’m most proud of: The many partnerships we have developed in our cities and unincorporated areas. Results come from people working together in a cooperative, nonpartisan way to solve problems and improve the quality of life for our constituents.

Every morning I read: All the local news.

My favorite meal is: Anything Mexican and spicy!

My pet peeve is: Tardiness. It shows disrespect. Being late says to others that you think your time is more valuable than their time.

My motto is: Respect others and choose your battles.

The last book I read was: Measure What Matters by John Doerr

The most adventurous thing I’ve ever done is: Walk the famous Camino de Santiago in Spain.

My favorite movie is: Romantic comedies like The Holiday always fit the bill

My favorite music: Songs like “Dancing in the Moonlight” by King Harvest.

My favorite U.S. president: The great communicator, Ronald Reagan

My district is a NACo member because: Counties matter and counties need to work together to move our communities and our nation forward to a prosperous future for current and future generations.