Chris Herrod, Mayor

Contact Mayor Herrod

Chris Herrod was born in the old Healdsburg Hospital on Johnson Street in 1965 and grew up on Sanns Lane. His father Jack was a well-know local figure whose pharmacy, General Drug, operated on the Plaza for many years and then later at the Mitchell Center. Jack never ran for office, but was active in numerous non-profits and instilled in Chris the value of giving back to one’s community. 

Chris attended Healdsburg High School, Santa Rosa Junior College, and Sonoma State University where he earned his B.A. in psychology. His years after college were spent exploring the world, with long stops in Eugene, OR. and Boulder, CO. Eventually the call to return to Healdsburg was too strong and he moved back in 1996. 

Since 1997, Chris has been a manager, working locally (Healdsburg, Windsor) in the stringed instrument industry. He began work for StewMac (Athens, OH.) as Wholesale Sales Manager in late 2023. The company is primarily an online retailer that sells woods, tools, and parts to guitar makers. Part of Chris’ work was directing the Healdsburg Guitar Festival (1999-2013). He has given presentations at numerous industry events throughout the country and is a respected figure in the lutherie supply industry. 

Chris married Geyserville native Briana Byrd in 2005 and their son Arlo came along in 2006, with Henry completing the picture in 2008.  

In 2012 Chris was surprised and delighted to win the whimsical Mr. Healdsburg contest, helping to raise money for the Raven Theater. As he appeared as Mr. Healdsburg at numerous city events, his love for the town deepened. Afterwards he began looking for another avenue to contribute to our community and ended up with an appointment to the Parks and Recreation Commission. Chris served for 7 years on the commission, being reappointed twice and serving twice as chair before his election to the Council.

Chris also enjoys shopping at the Farmer’s Market, cooking meals for his family, meditation, seeing music at Elephant in the Room, hiking and biking, travel, all things guitar, and on occasion, a good nap.  

As a Council Member, Chris’ focus is on strengthening the voice of all Healdsburg’s residents in local government, with an emphasis on drawing in our marginalized communities. Trust, balance and sustainability are guiding values for Chris. Your input is always welcome. Please feel free to email Chris with your concerns, comments and ideas -or to request a meeting.