MAYOR

Term of Office December 2024 - December 2028


Bill Velto has proudly called Upland home for more than 60 years. He is one of nine children born to the late Al and Gloria Velto and credits his parents for instilling in him the values of honesty, integrity, respect, and service to others, principles that continue to guide him today.

A lifelong member of the Upland community, Bill attended local schools and was actively involved in youth athletics, including Little League, Pony League, football, and soccer at Upland High School. He and his wife, Jody, a longtime local Realtor, raised their four children in Upland, where each attended local schools and participated extensively in the city’s youth sports and community programs. Two of their children served as Associated Student Body Presidents during their senior year at Upland High School.

The Velto family continues to contribute to their respective communities and professions. Kristen Dowling serves as Head Coach of the women’s basketball program at Whittier College. Natalie Velto is a local artist. Alex Velto is an attorney practicing in Reno and currently serves on the Reno City Planning Commission. Billy Velto works within the operations department of the Empire Strykers organization.

Professionally, Bill serves as President of MGR Real Estate, Inc., where he has developed extensive knowledge of both residential and commercial real estate throughout the Inland Empire. Through his work, he has helped families and businesses relocate to Upland while consistently promoting the city as an outstanding place to live, work, and invest.

Bill has long been active in civic and regional leadership. He served for many years on the Local Candidate Review Committee for the Inland Valley Association of Realtors, working alongside elected officials and community leaders throughout San Bernardino and Riverside Counties.

A veteran of the United States Navy, Bill credits his military service with strengthening his leadership skills, discipline, and commitment to public service.

Before being elected Mayor of Upland, Bill was appointed to the Upland City Council. He also served for many years on the Upland Planning Commission, including as Vice Chairman.

In addition to his mayoral responsibilities, Bill serves on several local and regional agencies and boards, including the Inland Empire Utilities Agency, Water Facilities Authority, San Antonio Water Company, Chino Basin Watermaster, and Omnitrans, among others.
Bill believes Upland remains one of the finest communities in Southern California to raise a family and build a future. Throughout his professional and public service career, he has remained dedicated to preserving and enhancing the values, traditions, and quality of life that define Upland as “The City of Gracious Living.”