Born in New York City, John graduated from Stuyvesant High School.  Following his honorable discharge from the United States Marine Corps, he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Accountancy from Baruch College – City University of New York and later an MBA from the University of North Florida.  Both degrees were completed at night while working full time.  He also completed the Senior Executives in State and Local Government Program at Harvard University- John F. Kennedy School of Government

John’s private sector experience includes investment banking, Big 4 public accounting, the insurance industry, stockbroker, and entrepreneur.  In the public sector, he worked as the Finance Director for both the City of Neptune Beach and several City of Jacksonville agencies.  In 2006 John spearheaded the establishment of the City Auditor’s Office for Fort Lauderdale. 

As the City Auditor, John conducted audits of operational efficiency and effectiveness, IT security, construction projects, and investigated potential fraud.  He advised the Commission on the variety of issues, including the annual budget, debt issuance, financial viability of proposed public-private partnerships, and other items of city business. Through three City Commissions, four City Managers and three City Attorneys, John served as the steady guiding hand overseeing the integrity of the city’s financial, budgeting and procurement activities.

Finally, John has been actively involved with a variety of community organization board-level committees, including the Broward Performing Arts Center Authority, Broward County School Board, Broward County Housing Authority, Community Foundation of Broward County, and the Broward Housing Partnership.

Commissioner Herbst may be reached via e-mail at JHerbst@fortlauderdale.gov or by phone at 954-828-5008.

Commissioner Herbst's Assistant, Melissa Whiddon, may be reached via e-mail at mwhiddon@fortlauderdale.gov or by phone at 954-828-5033.