Tammy Kim, elected to the Irvine City Council in 2020, is a dedicated public servant, community leader, educator, and mother with a track record of impactful leadership. With a diverse background as a nonprofit leader, educator, community advocate, small-business owner, and former corporate executive, Tammy brings a unique blend of experience and vision to the table. As the Executive Director of the Korean American Center, an Irvine-based nonprofit, she has worked tirelessly to support the community. Her professional career includes high-level roles in Fortune 500 companies and venture-backed startups, managing complex global business challenges. Tammy has lived, worked, and raised her son in Irvine for over two decades, fostering deep roots in the city.

 

During her tenure on the City Council (Dec 2020 - Dec 2024), Tammy championed critical issues such as housing affordability, environmental sustainability, public safety, and economic development. She advanced policies to make housing more accessible, ensured Irvine remains a hub for innovation, and reimagined the Great Park as a community asset that enhances residents’ quality of life. Tammy was instrumental in strengthening public safety measures, fostering economic growth, and reimagining the Great Park as a hub of recreation and innovation that enhances Irvine’s quality of life.

Tammy has worked to balance responsible growth with preserving Irvine’s character, ensuring green spaces, safe streets, and strong schools remain central to the city’s future.

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Tammy is running for re-election to the Irvine City Council to continue delivering forward-thinking, bold leadership to protect and enhance Irvine’s quality of life. Her priorities include:

• Safeguarding Irvine’s character: Protecting green spaces, maintaining parks, and ensuring thoughtful development that supports families and neighborhoods.

• Expanding workforce housing: Creating opportunities for teachers, nurses, police officers, and young professionals to live in Irvine while preserving the city’s high standards.

• Enhancing public safety: Strengthening community safety programs and partnerships to keep Irvine one of the safest cities in the nation.

• Improving transportation: Reducing traffic congestion through expanded transit options like the iShuttle, safer bike lanes, and better connectivity for all residents.

• Transforming the Great Park: Ensuring it becomes a world-class destination and economic driver for generations to come that benefit all residents.

• Supporting the Irvine Public Library System: Enhancing library facilities, expanding resources, and promoting programs that serve as educational and cultural hubs for the community.

 

Tammy’s extensive experience extends beyond the Council. She has served on numerous influential regional boards and committees, including the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), Orange County Council of Governments (OCCOG), Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA), Orange County Power Authority (OCPA), and the League of California Cities Orange County Division Board of Directors as the Large City Representative. Her active involvement in these organizations has given her a comprehensive understanding of regional issues and the tools to address them effectively.

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As a Councilmember, Finance Commissioner, and proven advocate for Irvine’s families, Tammy is ready to continue building a city that prioritizes quality of life through thoughtful planning, innovation, and community-centered policies.