Don Benninghoven, a beloved and respected advocate for local government, has died at the age of 90. Benninghoven passed away after a battle with cancer on Nov. 17, 2023 in Santa Barbara.
Benninghoven was born in Bakersfield, California in 1933 and grew up in San Mateo. His affinity for city government was first honed in high school when he served as mayor during a youth-in-government day.
He was accepted to UC Berkeley and had intended to become a physician. But after enlisting in the U.S. Army, he returned to college and obtained a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in public administration. Benninghoven later joined the League of California Cities and spent 26 years as Executive Director.
“He found a calling that ensured local government leaders had the flexibility and resources to carry out local goals,” his obituary states. “He influenced major legislation that continues to impact the lives of all Californians. And while the accomplishments were major, he felt his career was a great one because of the dedicated people with which he worked.”
Benninghoven also helped co-found the Cities-Counties-Schools Partnership, and served as the executive director of the Cities Counties Schools Association after his retirement from the League. He had a lifelong passion for marine conservation as well, and was instrumental in the passage of the Marine Life Protection Act of 1999.
Benninghoven is survived by his wife Sheri; his sister Ann Hammond; sister-in-law Anne Benninghoven; his three children, Dr. Scott Benninghoven (Pam), Kim Benninghoven (Monte Short), and Jill Keimach (Ro); and four grandchildren. A memorial service will be held March 16 at 1 p.m. at All Saints-by-the-Sea in Santa Barbara. Donations can be made to All Saints Outreach or to the Institute for Local Government, Sacramento.