It is with great sadness that the Town must inform you of the passing of Jim Dobbie. Jim passed away yesterday at Stanford Hospital. Jim served on Atherton City Council for six years, beginning in 2008. This past March, Jim resigned due to health issues which precluded him from serving the Town he loved in the manner he felt it deserved.
In addition to his work on Council, Jim served on the General Plan, Audit and Finance, Transportation, Environmental Programs and the Civic Center Advisory Committees. Jim also served as Council liaison to the Fire District and the Holbrook-Palmer Park Foundation as well as participating on a number of important regional boards where he was known for ensuring Atherton's voice.
A 20+ year resident , Jim was a retired high tech executive and a former pilot in the Royal Air Force Reserve in Scotland. Jim brought his business skills to Atherton Council where he played a leading role in financial discussions. Most notably, while serving as Mayor, Jim led the Council in making the difficult decisions to outsource several key departments which resulted in improved service levels and helped whittle down the Town's structural deficit.
Jim held a clear sense of commitment and a strong sense of pride to this Town and its residents. The Town will miss Jim and his passion for democracy. Jim is survived by hi wife Pat, their three daughters and seven grandchildren. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.