John Putnam: Small Business Owner, Entrepreneur, Family Man, and Dedicated Civic Leader

John Putnam is a dedicated business owner, entrepreneur, and civic leader with a long history of innovation and service in the Santa Monica community. From his beginnings as a stock boy at a local clothing store, John discovered a love for fashion that led to a successful career in the apparel industry. Forty years later, his tireless work ethic and creativity have made him a household name in fashion accessories. His ventures, including Putnam Accessory Group and Version MFG, lead the industry with cutting-edge design and global reach. Despite his success, John remains deeply connected to the Santa Monica community he loves and calls home.

John brings the same passion and dedication to his community service efforts. His desire to help others has made him a pillar in civic service, both locally and globally. Every November, he helps provide Thanksgiving meals and essential items to over 1,000 low-income community members. During the holiday season, his “Love Packs” project collects coats and blankets to distribute to those in need. He is a board member of Heroes’ Movement, a non-profit supporting veterans' mental and physical well-being.

Annually, through Brothers Taking Responsibility for Our Community (BTROC), John distributes backpacks to children throughout the Los Angeles area. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he produced and donated masks and protective gear to Santa Monica hospitals, showcasing his proactive approach and dedication to community well-being.

His involvement with local schools reflects John's commitment to education. As a former eight-year member of the Saint Monica Preparatory School Board he supports higher educational standards. In the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District, John was impressed with the quality of education and special needs support, ensuring every child, including his daughter Brook, received the necessary resources to thrive. 

As a city council member, John will bring the same traits that have brought him business success—humble leadership, a passion for excellence, and selfless service—to the betterment of Santa Monica. Through hard work and smart policy, John aims to ensure that Santa Monica remains a place where businesspeople, families, and visitors alike can flourish for years to come.

John’s goals for the city:

Whether you own property, rent, run a business, or are a Republican, Democrat, artist, athlete, or teacher, there's a shared concern: Santa Monica's safety has declined. Many friends avoid walking alone even during the day, and those who do often encounter individuals struggling with drug addiction or mental illness.

Crime has infiltrated our daily lives. The city council's attempts to combat homelessness have failed, wasting tax dollars without making a meaningful difference. They continue to support ineffective programs and strategies.

But we are not powerless. Change is possible, but it requires community effort. Together, we can create the Santa Monica we all deserve. John's mission is to unite the community for the greater good.

John’s vision for Santa Monica focuses on:

• Ensuring a Clean and Safe City
• Tackling the Homelessness Crisis
• Enhancing Public Safety
• Preserving Rent Control
• Protecting Neighborhoods and Commercial Areas
• Creating Pathways to Home Ownership
• Promoting Fiscal Responsibility