Danielle Shoykhet has made history as the first woman to be elected as the president of the Beachwood City Council. The unanimous decision came during a council meeting on January 5, 2024, where several officials, including Mayor Justin Berns, were sworn into office. This event marked a significant moment for the city, reflecting a shift towards greater representation in local governance.
The meeting featured a ceremonial atmosphere as Cuyahoga County Domestic Relations Court Judge Francine Goldberg administered the oath of office to Mayor Berns, who was elected unopposed in November. Goldberg recalled her prior involvement in swearing in Berns both as a councilman a decade ago and as mayor four years ago. The gathering also included the swearing-in of other council members, such as former council president Alec Isaacson and Councilwoman Jillian DeLong, who was elected as vice president.
In her inaugural address, Shoykhet expressed her gratitude to her colleagues, stating, “Thank you so much to my colleagues on council. I am truly honored to accept your nomination as the council president for the next two years.” She emphasized the importance of collaboration and respect, noting, “Our different perspectives is what I believe makes us stronger, especially when we listen with respect and lead with intention.”
Shoykhet acknowledged the exemplary leadership of Isaacson during his tenure as council president, describing him as an “extraordinary example of leadership and doing things the right way.” She laid out her immediate goals, which include establishing the membership and leadership of various committees and creating a legislative agenda that prioritizes clarity and purpose in council initiatives.
The council now boasts a significant representation of women, with Shoykhet, DeLong, and fellow council members June Taylor, Ali Stern, and Alex Jacobs making up five of the seven seats. Isaacson and Pete Smith are the only male representatives.
The meeting was attended by District 11 Cuyahoga County Councilwoman Sunny Simon, who reflected on the evolution of the council over the past decade. “At that time, it was all men,” she remarked, highlighting the progress toward diversity within the council. Simon expressed her pride in witnessing women take leadership roles, stating, “It makes me proud, it makes me happy — and a takeover of women at the helm.”
Also present was Ohio District 21 State Representative Eric Synenberg, a former Beachwood councilman, who spoke about the importance of collaboration in local governance. Judge Goldberg also praised Mayor Berns for his contribution to the city, noting his initiatives, including the city’s $8 million purchase of the former Fairmount Temple property and the installation of an electronic reader board sign at City Hall.
As Berns embarks on another term, he prepares for his participation in the Dopey Challenge at Disney World in Florida, a grueling event that involves completing four races over four days, totaling 48.6 miles. His commitment to both his running and public service reflects a dedication to community and personal achievement.
Shoykhet concluded her address by reaffirming her commitment to serving the Beachwood community, stating, “I care deeply about the Beachwood community and serving alongside all of you. I am excited by what we can and will accomplish together.”
This significant election not only marks a milestone for Shoykhet but also symbolizes a broader shift towards inclusive leadership in local government, paving the way for future generations.
