L.A. AREA CHAMBER PAYS TRIBUTE TO FORMER PRESIDENT & CEO - GARY TOEBBEN

by L.A. Area Chamber

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Gary Toebben, former President and CEO of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce. Gary’s legacy of service and dedication to the Los Angeles region and communities is unsurpassed. Through his tireless work, Gary was a true servant leader who cared about a better tomorrow for all Angelenos. We extend our condolences to his wife Janice and the entire Toebben family,”

“Gary championed initiatives which contributed to the economic prosperity and quality of life for businesses and residents of Los Angeles. Amongst his countless accolades includes his leadership in engaging the business community to help tackle L.A.’s homelessness crises through Measure H. He was one of the first community leaders to recognize homelessness’ far-reaching impacts and consequences. He said it best, ‘This is not just a police issue, a sanitary issue. It’s also a business issue.’

He was fully entrenched in all aspects of the community, he served on the Mayor's L.A. Economy & Jobs Committee, the L.A. County Health Care Options Task Force and the City Council's Business Retention & Attraction Task Force. He also championed local and state ballot initiatives on transportation and economic development and represented the Chamber as one of four co-sponsors of Proposition 11 to create a citizen commission to redistrict California after each census.  

“Gary showed his unwavering commitment to lifting up the Los Angeles region with equity long before equitable economics became the status quo. He will be missed, but his impact will be felt throughout Los Angeles and California for many years to come,” current President & CEO of the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce, Maria S. Salinas