A prominent local west valley businessman has filed to run for Los Angeles mayor.
Woodland Hills resident Robert “Goody” Goodman was the founder of Box Brothers Corporation, a successful chain of retail box, packaging and shipping centers. He opened multiple locations across Southern California and earned recognition as a finalist for “Entrepreneur of the Year” several times. After a serious health challenge where he battled liver cancer, Goodman underwent a successful liver transplant, an experience that deepened his appreciation for life and community – and strengthened his resolve to give back, especially to those navigating the challenges of starting and growing a business in the Los Angeles region.
He is an active member of the West Valley Warner Center Chamber of Commerce, where he mentors small business owners and shares practical insights from decades of experience in retail, logistics and entrepreneurship.
His platform includes eliminating the Los Angeles business tax to small businesses. He wants to eradicate the tax to empower small businesses and stimulate local economic growth.
He also is pushing to bring back Hollywood by reducing red tape, enhancing public safety and making L.A. a welcoming place for business again.
Following the Altadena and Palisades fires, Goodman believe in a hassle-free rebuilding experience. That includes cutting through city and county bureaucracy, eliminating duplicate approvals and establishing clear timelines for permits.
“Homeowners should not be penalized for rebuilding, and small businesses must be able to reopen quickly without excessive fees and delays,” he told Valley News Group.
Goodman also believes in taking an aggressive stance against crime and restoring accountability for criminal behavior. “We need to fully staff our police departments and provide officers with the necessary resources to effectively serve the community fighting crime and street racing,” he said.
Addressing one of Los Angeles’ most urgent problems, Goodman wants to help the homeless – “helping those who want help first.”
His approach prioritizes assistance for individuals ready to accept help and provides immediate assistance for those who have recently lost their homes due to eviction, job loss or health issues. He believes in offering temporary housing, job placement and social services to help individuals regain stability. “We need to focus on solutions that break the cycle of homelessness,” he stated.
He also believes in treating addiction, not enabling it, with those seeking help undergoing mandatory detox, followed by a minimum six-month rehab program for those committed to recovery. “We need zero tolerance. We can no longer allow open drug use to destroy our neighborhoods and the lives within them.”
For those on the streets facing mental health issues, he believes in increased access to hospital care, medication management and supervised facilities, providing safe options for those in crisis to protect their well-being and that of the public.
Next week: Valley Councilmember Nithya Raman announces her run for mayor.
