Beachwood. There is no doubt that, as a community, we all share a love for Beachwood. I look forward to working with the other members of City Council and the Mayor to do great things for Beachwood. During my tenure I always focused economic development and finances to be sure that we had appropriate funds to pay for the fabulous facilities and services that the employees of Beachwood bring to us. This was not an individual effort, but my joint effort with the administration and the var- ious City Council members with whom I have served over the years: Alice Jacobs, Marty Arsham, Si Wachsberger, my good friend Ken Kleinman and, most recently, Mark Wachter, Mel Jacobs and Mark Mintz. This group, along with the Mayor, have created what I believe is the most significant city government in Ohio. Our city services are second to none and our financial position is the envy of most cities. Our strong financial position has allowed us to remodel City Hall, construct the Aquatic Center, provide for new fire stations, and develop the Beachwood Parks, all at no additional expense to the taxpayers, and while maintaining a AAA bond rating. all the employees at City Hall for their hard work and dedication in making Beachwood great. I thank you, the community, for your trust and faith in me, allowing me to serve on Council for six terms. decisions for what you believe will be in the best interests of the city, our employees, the businesses, and, of course, the residents, just as the previ- ous Councils have done. When I was growing up, my father instilled in me the idea that it is better strived to live up to his values. Now, I've come to the close of another chapter in my efforts to give back to my community. The past 22 years have been very rewarding and fulfilling, having served 6 years on the School Board of the district from which I graduated and 16 years on City Council. I'm proud to say that my son, Josh, is carrying on the family tradition, having been re-elected to serve his second term on the Beachwood School Board. for what was in the best interests of our schools and city. During my tenure, I have watched the schools and city continue to remain the envy of other happen by accident. off to all past, current and newly-elected public officials. The job can be an emotional roller coaster with many highs and lows along the way. No matter where you stand on a particular issue, there may be someone who disagrees with your decision. At such times, public servants need the courage of their convictions. our residents and our city. It is my hope and belief that we got it right more often than not. your heart, and to work together so Beachwood continues to be the best place to work, learn and live. Thank you. of the last 20 years, it has been my privilege to help create some wonderful amenities in the City. I am proud to have been able to work on the City Hall renovation, the Community Center, Fire Station No. 1, the Family Aquatic Center, and the Beachwood Parks. the law director in the preparation and execution of the initial documents that created Chagrin Highlands. To see it developed into a premier office and medical campus, while a member of the City Council and the Planning and Zoning Commission, is very satisfying. On the other hand, I found great joy when I was able to respond to the needs of an individual resident with a particular concern, often by simply placing a phone call to the appropriate city staff member. devoted employees. They are the ones who make Beachwood work. destination was always the same to create a better Beachwood. Reaching consensus through compromise and negotiation has resulted in programs and services that have benefited all of us in Beachwood. Today, municipalities vie for corporate citizens through various incentives. Reaching a proper balance will be a test for future Councils. dents for their support over the years. |