Danielle Shoykhet has made history by becoming the first woman elected as president of the Beachwood City Council. Her colleagues unanimously supported her nomination during a meeting on January 5, 2024. The ceremony also marked the swearing-in of Mayor Justin Berns for his second term, officiated by Judge Francine Goldberg of the Cuyahoga County Domestic Relations Court.
In a gathering filled with significance, several officials took their oaths of office. Mayor Berns, who ran unopposed in the November elections, reflected on his decade-long journey in public service, recalling how Judge Goldberg administered his oath as a councilman and then as mayor. Among those taking their oaths were former council president Alec Isaacson and newly elected council members Pete Smith and Alex Jacobs.
Shoykhet’s Vision for Beachwood
After accepting her role as council president, Shoykhet expressed her gratitude to her colleagues. “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. Shoykhet emphasized the importance of collaboration and respect among council members, stating, “We do not always see every issue the same way, but our different perspectives are what make us stronger.”
She highlighted her commitment to maintaining a positive relationship with Mayor Berns and the administration to effectively serve Beachwood residents. Shoykhet also acknowledged Isaacson’s previous leadership, calling him an “extraordinary example of leadership and doing things the right way.”
Looking ahead, Shoykhet outlined immediate goals for the council, including establishing committee memberships and prioritizing a legislative agenda. “Thank you for trusting me with this honorable responsibility,” she added. “I care deeply about the Beachwood community and serving alongside all of you.”
A Milestone for Representation
District 11 Cuyahoga County Councilwoman Sunny Simon, present at the meeting, reflected on the progress made in representation within the Beachwood council. “More than a decade ago, it was all men,” Simon noted, celebrating the current diversity among council members. Beachwood City Council now includes five women: Shoykhet, Jillian DeLong, June Taylor, Ali Stern, and Alex Jacobs, with Isaacson and Smith being the only male representatives.
Former Beachwood councilman and current Ohio District 21 State Representative Eric Synenberg also attended the meeting, highlighting the importance of effective governance in local communities. Judge Goldberg praised Mayor Berns for his accomplishments during his term, including the city’s $8 million acquisition of the former Fairmount Temple property in June 2024 and the installation of an electronic reader board outside city hall. She noted Berns’ business acumen from his previous role as president of Berns Construction Homes, which she believes enhances his capabilities as mayor.
In a personal note, Judge Goldberg mentioned Berns’ upcoming participation in the Dopey Challenge at Disney World, where he will run four races over four days, totaling 48.6 miles. This event is a testament to his commitment and endurance, traits he hopes to bring to his role in leading Beachwood.
Shoykhet’s election marks a significant moment for Beachwood and reflects a broader trend toward increased female representation in local governance. As she embarks on her term, both she and her colleagues appear poised to address the needs of their community with renewed vigor and commitment.
