John Duncan (California politician)
John Duncan is an American attorney and politician currently serving as the 52nd mayor of Coronado, California. A member of the Republican Party, he previously served on the Coronado City Council from 2022 to 2024.
Early life and education
Duncan earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science from the University of Southern California. He received his Juris Doctor from the University of San Diego School of Law, where he served as Constitutional Law Chair on the Appellate Moot Court Board. He is admitted to practice law in California, Texas, the state of Washington, and Washington, D.C.
Career
Duncan practiced law for over 25 years, specializing in business, finance, asset management, and real estate law. He previously created and managed a law firm partnership representing financial institutions in federal court.
City Council
Duncan was elected to the Coronado City Council in November 2022. Prior to his election, he served on several city and community bodies, including the Coronado Historical Association Board of Directors, the Coronado Civil Service Commission, and the Bicycle Advisory Committee.
As a councilmember, he served on the city's Transborder Sewage Subcommittee, addressing cross-border sewage issues affecting Coronado's waters.
Duncan left his city council position two years into his four-year term to assume elected mayoral duties. Three council members confirmed his appointment and one voted against. The council avoided a special election as it would cost taxpayers between $275,000 and $450,000.
Mayor of Coronado
In 2024, Duncan ran for mayor against fellow sitting councilmembers Mike Donovan and Casey Tanaka to succeed term-limited Mayor Richard Bailey. He received the most votes in the November 5, 2024, general election (approximately 4,034 votes) and was elected as the 52nd mayor of Coronado.
His stated priorities have included addressing the Tijuana River sewage issue, city finances and infrastructure, public safety, and regional representation. Duncan sits on the board of San Diego Association of Governments (SANDAG).
In 2026, Duncan oversaw the city's logistical and safety response to NASCAR's inaugural race weekend at neighboring Naval Base Coronado, an event that drew an estimated 100,000 visitors to the area. He also participated in the event's pre-race ceremonies, serving as an honorary starter.
Regional governance
In addition to his municipal duties as mayor, Duncan represents Coronado on several regional environmental and infrastructure boards. He serves as a Board Director for the Metropolitan Wastewater Joint Powers Authority (JPA) and represents Supervisorial District 3 on the Governing Board of the San Diego County Air Pollution Control District (APCD). He is also a member of the International Boundary and Water Commission (IBWC) Citizens Advisory Group and serves as a board alternate for the San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS). Within Coronado City Hall, his assignments include the city's Audit Committee, the Caltrans Subcommittee, and acting as the council's liaison to the Coronado Chamber of Commerce.
Personal life
Duncan and his wife Peggy, also an attorney, have four children. He has been ACTIVE in community service, including youth sports coaching and nonprofit boards. Duncan overcame throat cancer prior to his council service.
See also
- Government of Coronado, California