John H. Coombs, Esq. has 14 years’ experience in District government, specializing in government relations at the intersection of public safety and health in the District of Columbia’s unified state-local government. He has innovatively developed and implemented strategic initiatives, improving service delivery, and securing millions in increased investment for large organizations. Through effective relationship-building with the Executive branch, government agencies, and external partners, Mr. Coombs ensures the timely implementation of strategic investments, subject to rigorous performance oversight, leveraging his deep understanding of the policy and budget process.

Prior to joining the Fire and EMS Department, Mr. Coombs was Senior Associate Director in the Executive Office of the Mayor, Office of Policy and Legislative Affairs serving as a liaison to the Council of the District of Columbia, facilitating the exchange of information and offering advice contract approval, legislation, rulemakings, and executive nominations. He worked closely with agency directors to refine issues, develop hearing testimony, and prepare witnesses for public hearings and roundtables. He collaborated closely with agencies to finalize and publish statutorily required reports and rulemakings.

From 2007-2010, Mr. Coombs was legal research associate for Utrecht & Phillips, PLLC, and its predecessor firm, to provide legal advice, under attorney supervision, to Federal and state campaigns, political action committees, and political organizations, on campaign finance compliance, ethics, human resources, and criminal matters.

A native of Poughkeepsie, New York, Mr. Coombs attended the Catholic University of America in Washington where he received both his bachelor’s and Juris Doctor degrees. He is admitted to practice in the District of Columbia and the State of Maryland.