BEACHWOOD, Ohio — In a significant shift for the Beachwood City Council, voters elected Alexandra Jacobs on November 4, 2023, expanding the female majority on the council to five out of seven members. This election marks a pivotal moment in the city’s governance, as Jacobs joins incumbents Council President Alec Isaacson and Councilman Peter Smith, both of whom were also re-elected.
Jacobs, a newcomer to political office, expressed her motivation for running, stating, “I’m not happy with national politics. I don’t like the direction our country is going, and I feel helpless to do a lot about it on the national level.” She emphasized the importance of local community engagement, reflecting a sentiment that resonates with many voters.
This election not only solidifies the council’s female representation but also brings a fresh perspective. Unofficial results from the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections indicate that Isaacson received 1,904 votes (29.6 percent), Jacobs followed closely with 1,785 votes (27.7 percent), and Smith garnered 1,677 votes (26 percent). The fourth candidate, Matthew Hildebrand, received 1,075 votes, representing 16.7 percent of the total.
Jacobs aims to focus on key initiatives during her term, including enhancing the city’s finances and evaluating the ongoing solar street lighting pilot program. “I share a lot of the goals I think the current City Council is aiming for,” Jacobs stated. She believes that improving street lighting is essential, particularly in areas lacking sidewalks, to enhance safety for pedestrians.
A law school graduate, Jacobs has experience managing condominium and homeowner associations through a community management company she co-founded with her mother. Her involvement in local activities, such as serving as the PTO treasurer and coaching a Destination Imagination team, showcases her commitment to the community.
Alec Isaacson, who has served on the council for twelve years, expressed his support for Jacobs. He noted her extensive involvement with Beachwood Schools and highlighted their shared vision for the community. Isaacson will complete his term as council president on December 31, 2023, after two consecutive terms.
As for the council’s objectives moving forward, Isaacson mentioned the importance of strategic investments in the community. He also highlighted the council’s continued focus on financial sustainability and the successful implementation of the solar streetlight project, which has garnered positive feedback.
Councilman Peter Smith, appointed earlier this year to fill a vacancy, views his re-election as a confirmation of his dedication to the community. He previously took over the seat of former councilman Eric Synenberg, who was elected to the Ohio House of Representatives.
The recent election reflects a broader trend within Beachwood, where voters previously elected Jillian DeLong and Ali Stern to the council, contributing to the establishment of a female majority. This change is seen as a response to a growing demand for diverse representation in local governance.
As the newly elected council members prepare to take office in January 2024, their collaborative efforts may pave the way for progressive policies aimed at enhancing the quality of life in Beachwood. Jacobs, Isaacson, and Smith’s collective experience and commitment to community engagement are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the council’s agenda in the coming years.
