J.R.’s career history includes owning and operating two architecture and design firms, one in Los Angeles and one in the Bay Area where he specialized in the redesign and restoration of existing buildings. He also served as the lead fundraiser and the founding Managing Director of the Palm Springs Art Museum Architecture and Design Center, Edwards Harris Pavilion, which opened in November 2014. In that capacity he helped raise more than 4.5 million dollars to purchase and renovate the historic building and transform it into a world-renowned museum. He continues his design practice while investing in and restoring old buildings. J.R. was a City Councilor in Palm Springs from 2015 to 2019, where he also served as Mayor Pro-Tem. He currently is the Vice-chair of the Palm Springs Planning Commission. His past public service includes serving as the Mayor and City Council Member for the City of Sausalito, President of the Palm Springs Art Museum Architecture and Design Council, Vice-Chair of the Palm Springs Modern Committee, and former President of the Palm Springs Modern Heritage Fund. By leading the effort to save and restore the Plaza Theatre, J.R. hopes to contribute his design, fundraising, and communications skills to bring the Plaza Theatre back to its former glory.
