Meet Myra Demeter, Candidate For Beverly Hills City Council

BEVERLY HILLS, CA — Myra Demeter is vying for one of two open seats on the Beverly Hills City Council.

Mail-in ballots have already been sent out for the March 5 election, in which voters will decide between 10 candidates running for the council seats being vacated by Mayor Julian Gold and Councilmember Lili Bosse.

Learn more about Demeter's goals for Beverly Hills:

Education:
Ph.D., education, New York University

Occupation:
Beverly Hills city commissioner — 10 years
educator, mathematics teacher, university professor — 20 years

Family:
I am the proud mother of four sons who range in age from 33 to 41, all of whom attended and were graduated from the Beverly Hills public schools.

Age:
72

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?
One son is involved in federal law enforcement.

Have you ever held a public office, whether appointive or elective?
I was elected to the Beverly Hills School Board in 2001 and was unopposed for a second term in 2005. I served two full terms (8 years).

Why are you seeking a seat on the City Council?
As Beverly Hills confronts a new era of significant changes and external pressures from state mandates, it is crucial to elect leaders with the right experience and knowledge to navigate this transformative period. I believe that my extensive experience, passion, and drive provide the essential tools to effectively lead Beverly Hills through this challenging time.

What do you think are the top three issues for voters in this election, and how do you plan to address them?
Supporting law enforcement with policies and resources to fight antisemitism and crime-plan developments that provide resident services, alleviate traffic, promote walkability, and satisfy state mandates — giving the public a strong voice at City Hall — maintain our quality of life and world class services.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
My commitment is to Beverly Hills. With 27 years of service across various elected and appointed positions, my proven record of leadership and dedication have positioned Beverly Hills as a global leader in public safety, eduction and commerce.

I understand the unique blend of tradition and progress that defines our city. I will leverage my experience and deep roots in this community to ensure that every decision made is in the best interests of Beverly Hills and its residents.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?
Safety/antisemitism-smart development to comply with state mandates/encourage family friendly businesses/give each resident a voice at City Hall

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
For the past 27 years I have dedicated myself to being a dynamic leader within the Beverly Hills community. Currently I serve on the Planning Commission, prioritizing fairness and residents' rights. I am intimately familiar with issues facing Beverly Hills and its residents.

As part of my commitment to public safety I am actively involved in the BHPD's Citizen Police Academy and lead Neighborhood Watch programs. My seven years on the Health and Safety Commission positioned Beverly Hills as a leader in protecting the community from dangerous toxins.

While serving on the Board of Education for Beverly hills Unified School District from 2001 to 2009, I secured critical funding for our students and families. I have held leadership roles in community nonprofits, contributing to libraries, schools and education.

Professionally, I taught mathematics for over two decades and evaluated federal grants.

I offer a proven record of service, leadership, and dedication to Beverly Hills.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?
Be genuine and true to yourself and your beliefs.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
I will leverage my experience, passion and deep roots in this community to ensure that every decision made is in the best interests of Beverly Hills and its residents.

Demeter's campaign website