Addressing Beachwood's 2026 achievements and objectives for the year ahead.
STATE OF THE CITY 2026 BEACHWOOD, OHIO
See progress in action!
Mayor Justin Berns- 25325 Fairmount Boulevard- Beachwood, Ohio- 216.464.1070- BeachwoodOhio.com
A Shared Vision For Our Community
Dear Residents & Businesses, In 2025, Beachwood made meaningful progress through strong leadership, responsible stewardship, and collaboration with residents, businesses, and regional partners. Advancements in public safety, infrastructure, economic development, and community services reflect a shared commitment to preserving Beachwood as a welcoming community where people can work, live, learn, and thrive. I am proud of how Beachwood continues to use every tool at its disposal — responsible budgeting, innovative partnerships, and strategic, forward-thinking investments — to deliver measurable results for our community.
Danielle Shoykhet, President 216.212.9212
Jillian DeLong, VP 216.509.3514
Mayor Justin Berns
As we move into 2026, we are building on this strong foundation with a clear focus on progress and opportunity. Thoughtful planning is giving way to action, guided by priorities that strengthen our neighborhoods, support responsible growth, and enhance the services residents rely on each day. I extend my sincere appreciation to our City Council members, department directors, and dedicated city employees for their leadership and commitment to our shared vision. Beachwood is a well-run city because of your professionalism, collaboration, and dedication to public service. Your work ensures that residents can continue to place their trust in a city that is responsive, responsible, and forward-looking.
Alec Isaacson 216.291.2797
To Beachwood residents and business owners, thank you for your trust, engagement, and continued commitment to our community. Sincerely,
Alex Jacobs 216.903.9911
Mayor Justin Berns
City Leadership
Larry Heiser , Finance Director larry.heiser@beachwoodohio.com
Tina Turick , City Administrator tina.turick@beachwoodohio.com
Steven Holtzman , Fire Chief steven.holtzman@beachwoodohio.com
Pete Smith 216.299.3557
Ben Lombardi , Communications Manager ben.lombardi@beachwoodohio.com
Dana Canzone , HR Manager dana.canzone@beachwoodohio.com
Harvey Rose , Audit Director harvey.rose@beachwoodohio.com
Craig Kaufman , IT Manager craig.kaufman@beachwoodohio.com
Ali B. Stern 240.706.7478
Brian Roenigk , Building Commissioner brian.roenigk@beachwoodohio.com
R. Todd Hunt , Law Director rthunt@ralaw.com
Derek Schroeder , Community Services Director derek.schroeder@beachwoodohio.com
Daniel Grispino , Police Chief daniel.grispino@beachwoodohio.com
Cathy Bieterman , Economic Development Director catherine.bieterman@beachwoodohio.com
Chris Arrietta , Public Works Director chris.arrietta@beachwoodohio.com
June E. Taylor 216.533.7640
Community photography by Discovery Photo.
Public Safety
Strengthening Community Resilience
59.6% 48.2% Decrease in Arrests Emergency Calls Increase in Citations Training Hours 5,826 6,332
Public safety remains the foundation of a strong and confident community. In 2025, Beachwood continued to invest in people, technology, and partnerships that ensure rapid response, proactive policing, and community connection. Key Accomplishments ◊ Modernized police and fire technology, including upgraded dash cameras, body cameras, and emergency recording systems ◊ Deployment of electric police vehicles and e-bikes, blending sustainability with modern law enforcement strategies ◊ New fire truck purchase agreement secured to stay ahead of long lead times ◊ Streamlined Fire Department hiring, keeping ranks fully staffed and reducing overtime ◊ Expanded officer and firefighter training, strengthening readiness and leadership ◊ Launched inclusive, community-focused initiatives that build trust and understanding
Achieved through a proactive approach to visibility and responding to resident feedback.
Beachwood firefighters set a new benchmark with a record number of training hours.
Community connection remained a priority for the Beachwood Police Department in 2025, with initiatives focused on strengthening trust and accessibility. The first-ever Cookout with Cops created informal spaces for officers and residents to connect, while the launch of the Blue Envelope Program enhanced support for drivers on the autism spectrum. The department also introduced new online services for overnight parking requests and vacation safety checks. The Fire Department continued advancing community safety through partnerships and education. In collaboration with the American Red Cross, the city will begin providing and installing smoke detectors for residents in early 2026. The department also expanded access to lifesaving skills by offering bi-monthly CPR certification classes, helping residents prepare for emergencies. Community Connection
Cookout with Cops
Fiscal Responsibility Beachwood’s financial approach is simple, disciplined, and principled: protect residents, support services, and plan for the future — without placing unnecessary burdens on residents or businesses that invest in our community. Responsible Stewardship ◊ The city continues to collect on just 1.6 mills, with 2.4 mills suspended through 2026 ◊ This intentional structure has kept tax rates flat, benefiting residents, businesses, and the Beachwood City School District ◊ Investments are prioritized on long-term value, not short-term gains Evolving Operations ◊ Expansion of cashless transactions across departments improved speed, security, and accuracy ◊ Technology investments reduce administrative costs while improving service delivery
Fostering Accountability & Efficiency
Income Tax (Business) 2025 Revenue Other Local Taxes Income Tax (Indiv.)
1% <1%
3%
2% 2%
4%
Permits & Licenses Reimbursements
3%
5%
Miscellaneous
$52.17 Million
General Government Recreation Programs
Fines & Forfeitures
$23.5 Million General Fund Balance An increase of $4.3 million from 2024.
78%
Mayor 2025 Expenses City Council
1% each
3%
4%
3%
7%
3%
<1%
4%
2%
Fire Dept.
Public Works
Econ. Development
Community Services
$45.3 Million
Finance Dept.
Camps & Pool Building Dept.
Human Resources
Law Dept.
Property & Equip.
Police Dept.
25%
27%
22%
Economic Development
Stimulating Growth & Prosperity
Beachwood’s economic momentum in 2025 was intentional, strategic, and forward-looking. Through targeted investment, strong partnerships, and long-term relationship building, the city continued to position itself as a premier destination for innovation, business growth, and job creation in Northeast Ohio. Key Accomplishments ◊ Named one of only four Ohio Premier Life Sciences Communities by Ohio Life Sciences ◊ Welcomed 32 new companies and celebrated 11 grand openings ◊ Supported $10+ million in commercial building renovations ◊ Approved forgivable loan agreements through the Beachwood Economic Impact Program to support business expansion and job creation ◊ Advanced strategic marketing efforts focused on talent, available sites, and industry growth ◊ Strengthened partnerships with the Chamber of Commerce and regional stakeholders
From global employers to local entrepreneurs, Beachwood is open for opportunity .
32 200+ New Businesses b In u v i e ld s i t n e g d i i mn p co ro m v m em er e c n i t a s l New Jobs Created $10,000,000+
New jobs inclusive of new businesses and economic development projects.
Seizing Momentum
Beachwood continues to attract global employers and emerging companies by leveraging its skilled workforce, strong infrastructure, and regional connectivity. In 2025, GEICO expanded its national footprint with a new 6,300-square-foot corporate office in the Landmark Center, reinforcing confidence in Beachwood’s economic climate and talent pool. At the same time, City Council approved forgivable loan agreements with 911 Cellular, LLC and Surgical Theater, Inc. through the Beachwood Economic Impact Program demonstrating the city’s commitment to supporting small businesses, encouraging expansion, and fostering long-term sustainability. These strategic investments stimulate job growth while strengthening and retaining existing businesses.
Skoda Gordon Dentistry Ribbon Cutting
Infrastructure
Enhancing Quality of Life & Services Major Projects Completed ◊ Green/Timberlane Sanitary Relief Sewer Project – Phase 2, $3 million investment with 50% MCIP grant funding ◊ New water main installation and full reconstruction of Greenlawn Avenue ◊ Concrete patching at key intersections to enhance safety ◊ Replacement of sidewalks on multiple residential streets ◊ Initiation of the City Hall Window Replacement Project, improving energy efficiency and building longevity Innovation & Sustainability ◊ Installation of 27 solar-powered streetlights along Ranch Road and Beachwood Boulevard as part of Ohio’s first Solar Streetlight Pilot Program ◊ Expansion of Rust Belt Riders Composting Program to 310 households, diverting 32.35 tons of food waste from landfills ◊ Ongoing collaboration with Cuyahoga County toward the development of a comprehensive City Sustainability Plan
Strong infrastructure supports everything — from public safety and mobility to sustainability and everyday convenience. In 2025, Beachwood continued to make thoughtful, targeted investments that not only address immediate needs but also prepare the city for long-term resilience and growth. Behind every project is the city’s Public Works Department, whose professionalism, responsiveness, and attention to detail set the standard across Northeast Ohio. From large-scale capital improvements to daily service requests, the department consistently delivers top-tier city services that residents and businesses rely on year-round.
8,180 Work Orders Completed 3,478 special rubbish pickups 945 special recycling pickups 102 trees planted citywide 13.9 tons of Shred Day materials
Community Engagement
Improving Our Well-Being
Play. Explore. Thrive.
Beachwood’s strength lies in its sense of community , and in 2025, that strength was reflected in unprecedented participation across city programs and events. Designed to connect residents across generations, backgrounds, and interests, Community Services offerings welcomed nearly 21,000 attendees — an increase of 38% over the previous year. This growth speaks to both the diversity of programming available and the high level of engagement within the Beachwood community. Signature Events & Programs ◊ Fall Fest & Concert with record attendance and fireworks finale ◊ New Playground Pop-up events featuring music and themed snacks for families ◊ Teen Night at the Courts, reaching an often-underserved age group ◊ BFAC Same-Gender Swimming, welcoming over 1,800 participants ◊ New Senior Picnic combined with 50-Year Resident Salute to honor longtime residents
10,000+ 800+ 51,983 15+ Senior Van Transports Bingo Night Attendees BFAC Admissions Special Event Sponsors
Serving Every Stage of Life
Beachwood’s Community Services Department is committed to serving residents of all ages through inclusive, high-quality programs. Offering recreation and community events for ages 3 to 100+, the department meets diverse needs while fostering connection and well-being. Beachwood Summer Camps operate at 100% capacity year after year, seniors enjoy weekly activity classes and social programs, and — responding to regional demand — the city partnered with neighboring communities to launch the Great Lakes Girls Recreational Basketball League. From youth athletics and arts to adult enrichment and intergenerational events, the department intentionally creates opportunities for residents to feel a true sense of belonging. These efforts reflect a proactive, community-centered approach to keeping Beachwood active, connected, and thriving.
Fireworks at the Fall Festival Concert
Innovative Partnerships Strength through Collaboration
Educational & Regional ◊ Collaboration between the city and
Beachwood’s continued success is built on strong, intentional partnerships with schools, nonprofits, businesses, and regional organizations. Behind these efforts is a shared belief that complex challenges are best addressed together. In 2025, the city leveraged these collaborations to expand capacity, share expertise, and deliver meaningful outcomes that benefit residents, businesses, and the community. Innovation in City Services & Economic Support ◊ Continued collaboration with the Beachwood Chamber of Commerce provided resources, networking opportunities, and direct support to local businesses and entrepreneurs, strengthening Beachwood’s economic ecosystem ◊ The Building Department partnered with Clariti to launch a new online permitting system, streamlining inspections and making it easier for residents, contractors, and businesses to manage projects from start to finish
Beachwood City Schools continued to deliver shared benefits — from coordinated services to responsible financial decisions that support educational excellence and stable tax rates ◊ Closely worked with NOACA, ODOT, and Cuyahoga County to advance major infrastructure planning and regional mobility Public Safety & Community ◊ Police Chief Dan Grispino was appointed to the executive board of the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force, strengthening coordination between federal and local law enforcement and enhancing regional security ◊ The Community Center hosted 14 American Red Cross blood drives, collecting 453 units of blood — potentially saving 1,359 lives
Looking Ahead – Priorities For 2026 As Beachwood moves through 2026, the city is focused on turning strategic planning into visible progress that strengthens safety, expands opportunity, and enhances quality of life. Building on the momentum of 2025, priorities center on advancing infrastructure, supporting thoughtful development, and expanding community-based services.
A key area of focus is the continued preparation of the Chagrin Highlands development, including collaboration with construction partners and the design of a new connector road from Mercantile Road to Harvard Road. This project will improve access, support future development, and maximize the potential of the nearly 43-acre site acquired in 2025. At the same time, the city is investing in programs that promote healthy aging, stronger community connections, and inclusive public safety solutions. 2026 Focus Areas ◊ Advancing major infrastructure projects from design to construction readiness ◊ Supporting marketing and development opportunities in Chagrin Highlands, including the Mercantile-to-Harvard connector road ◊ Expanding senior programming with additional special events and Meet & Eat luncheons ◊ Relaunching senior overnight trips in response to resident feedback ◊ Enhancing community-based public safety and mental health response options Expanding Community-Centered Safety Solutions ◊ Regional Crisis Response: Beachwood is exploring participation in the First CALL program, an alternative crisis response model that pairs behavioral health clinicians and peer support staff with individuals experiencing mental health or substance use crises. This regional program in collaboration with neighboring communities provides care-focused support while assisting Beachwood Police and Fire Departments in the field. ◊ Fire Safety Partnership: The Beachwood Fire Department will launch a new smoke detector replacement and installation program in early 2026 through its partnership with the American Red Cross, expanding access to critical fire safety resources for residents.
Winter Warm-Up Event
Coffee with a Cop
Department Directory
Audit Department 216.595.3712 Building Department 216.292.1914 Clerk of Council 216.595.5493 Community Services 216.292.1970
Economic Development 216.292.1915 Finance Department 216.292.1913 Fire & Rescue 216.292.1965 Law Department 216.595.5462
Mayor’s Office 216.292.1901 Police Department
216.464.2343 Public Works 216.292.1922 Emergency Dial 9-1-1 or 216.464.1234
Beachwood City Hall, 25325 Fairmount Blvd., Beachwood, Ohio 44122
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