On January 5, 2025, Danielle Shoykhet made history by becoming the first woman elected as the President of the Beachwood City Council in Ohio. Her colleagues supported her unanimously during a ceremonial meeting that also saw the swearing-in of other city officials, including Mayor Justin Berns, who has begun his second term.
The meeting included the oath of office administered by Cuyahoga County Domestic Relations Court Judge Francine Goldberg, who previously swore in Berns when he first began his tenure as a councilman a decade ago and again four years ago when he ascended to the mayoralty.
New Leadership and Goals
Shoykhet expressed her gratitude to her fellow council members, emphasizing the importance of their trust and support in her new role. “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 stated during her acceptance speech.
She acknowledged the diverse perspectives within the council, stating, “We do not always see every issue the same way, but our different perspectives is what I believe makes us stronger.” Shoykhet highlighted her commitment to fostering a collaborative environment and maintaining a constructive relationship with Mayor Berns and his administration.
As part of her immediate agenda, Shoykhet announced plans to establish the membership and leadership of various committees while prioritizing a legislative agenda. “I care deeply about the Beachwood community and serving alongside all of you,” she concluded, expressing her enthusiasm for future accomplishments.
A Shift in Representation
The meeting was attended by District 11 Cuyahoga County Councilwoman Sunny Simon, who reflected on the significant change in council representation over the years. “At that time, it was all men,” she remarked, noting that Beachwood was one of only two cities in the district with an entirely male council. Simon praised the current council’s diversity, saying it made her proud to see women in leadership roles.
With the election of Shoykhet and Jillian DeLong as the new council vice president, the Beachwood City Council now includes five women: Shoykhet, DeLong, and Councilwomen June Taylor, Ali Stern, and Alex Jacobs. The only male representatives remaining are Alec Isaacson and Pete Smith.
Also present at the meeting was Ohio District 21 State Rep. Eric Synenberg, a former Beachwood councilman, who shared his support for the new leadership team. Judge Goldberg spoke at length about her admiration for Mayor Berns, praising his accomplishments, including the city’s $8 million purchase of the former Fairmount Temple property in June 2024 and the installation of an electronic reader board sign in front of city hall.
As the meeting concluded, the atmosphere was optimistic, with a clear commitment from the newly elected leaders to work collaboratively for the benefit of the Beachwood community. The elected officials aim to enhance public service through their united efforts, ensuring a progressive and inclusive future for the city.
