Buellton Mayor David Silva has been appointed to the California Air Resources Board, according to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s office. 

Silva has served as Buellton’s mayor since 2024 and senior director of development for Annual Giving Programs at UC Santa Barbara since 2024. 

Before becoming mayor, Silva served on the City Council from 2022 to 2024. 

He held multiple roles at UCSB from 2015 to 2017, including director for development for Annual Giving Programs, director of development for digital fundraising and annual giving, assistant director of development for digital fundraising, and director of business development. 

He held multiple roles at Hilton Worldwide from 2013 to 2014, including sales manager and guest services manager. 

Silva also serves on the Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District Board of Directors. 

He earned a bachelor of arts degree in communications and religious studies from UCSB. 

Silva is a registered Democrat, according to the state’s announcement about the appointment.

He grew up in Orcutt and graduated from St. Joseph High School.

The position requires Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem.