City of Costa Mesa
Home MenuCouncil Member Jeff Pettis
In November of 2024, Jeff Pettis was elected to represent Costa Mesa’s District 6 for a four-year term.
Born and raised in Newport Beach, Jeff is a graduate of Corona del Mar High School, holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from California State University, Long Beach, and a Master of Science in Nursing Administration from California Baptist University.
Jeff's career reflects his commitment to serving others. After starting in the corporate world with Frito-Lay and a major auto group, he shifted to healthcare, becoming a registered nurse.
Jeff was drawn to the idea that he would not be truly fulfilled until he found a career that allowed him the privilege of working to serve others. He took a leap of faith and decided to go back to school to become a registered nurse (RN). He enrolled at California Baptist University where he became a licensed RN and went on to earn a Master of Science in Nursing Administration. Early in his nursing career is when he found his calling; working with others suffering from substance use disorders and mental illness. He worked in the private sector for two years as the head RN for a dual-diagnosis rehabilitation center that treated a myriad of substance use and mental health disorders. His great respect for the men and women of our Armed forces led him to accepting a position at the Veterans Health Administration.
Jeff started his healthcare career at the VA in Los Angeles Hospital on an acute, locked psychiatric unit and was promoted to Clinical Assistant Manager. In this role, Jeff was the Vice Chair for two years for the VA’s Nurse Professional Practice Committee, where he developed, reviewed and enacted hospital policies for nursing professional practice. In 2017, he accepted a Nurse Manager position in Outpatient Psychiatry at the Long Beach VA Medical Center and now serves as Deputy Chief Nurse of Mental Health at the Long Beach VA Medical Center, where he leads initiatives addressing substance abuse and mental health challenges, especially among veterans.
Jeff has lived in Eastside Costa Mesa for over 13 years with wife Kerry (who he has known since preschool), three daughters, Hannah, Madi and Charlotte, his dog Goose and cats Maverick and Jester!
Jeff's focus is on critical issues such as addressing homelessness with a comprehensive approach, promoting fiscal responsibility, and enhancing public safety. He is passionate about preserving the residential character of Costa Mesa while fostering smart development and transparent governance.
Term expires: November 2028 (1st term)
Email: jeff.pettis@costamesaca.gov
Phone: (714) 754-5107