Sharona Nazarian, PsyD, was sworn in as mayor of Beverly Hills on April 1 at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts. She is the first Iranian American woman to hold the office.
In her inaugural address, Nazarian highlighted plans for the coming year, including initiatives to promote togetherness and public safety, as well as programs to spotlight the work being done by local businesses.
“Beverly Hills has star recognition, but I want to take it back to the basics and what makes Beverly Hills remarkable: community and unity,” she said. “I believe that hard work and dedication are key to getting things done, and I promise to work hard for you.”
Photo courtesy city of Beverly Hills
As part of her effort to increase safety, Nazarian spoke about four new security elements in the city. The Beverly Hills Police Department is “embracing cutting-edge technology” with two programs: an AI program called AI Blue Scribe and new software dubbed BHPD Live Link.
AI Blue Scribe, Nazarian said, is “a game-changer that eliminates bureaucracy, streamlines report writing and gets our officers back on our streets, protecting you.”
The newly installed mayor described BHPD Live Link as software that will “keep you, our residents and businesses, in the loop with real-time updates on calls for service.”
“Imagine a Beverly Hills where transparency, communication and efficiency go hand in hand, empowering our police and strengthening our community bonds.”
Photo by Jessica Ogilvie
Nazarian announced that the city has finalized an agreement with Metro to install a public safety kiosk at the soon-to-open La Cienega Station. She has also requested permission from the Los Angeles District Attorney for Beverly Hills to prosecute state law misdemeanors, a responsibility that would otherwise fall to the D.A.
“This proactive step will ensure that Beverly Hills will never be the target of unwarranted attacks again,” she said. “If you are even thinking about committing a crime in Beverly Hills, you’d better think twice.”
To highlight the work of local businesses, open the lines of communication with residents and draw on her background in psychology, Nazarian announced eight new programs that aim to promote awareness and conversation among the citizens of Beverly Hills.
“Straight Talk with Sharona” will be a recurring town hall meeting at which Nazarian will hear ideas from locals about how to make the city better. “In the Know with Mayor Nazarian,” “Spotlight with Sharona” and “Shining in Beverly Hills” will highlight the city’s merchants, small businesses and luxury brands.
“Moment of Unity” and “Moments of Inspiration” at City Council meetings and on social media, respectively, will help officials and residents stay connected and centered.
Photo by Sean Beckner-Carmitchel
Finally, to increase involvement from youth and celebrate the city’s seniors, Nazarian introduced “Sharona’s Innovation Circle” and “Sunday Socials with Sharona.” The former will be an advisory cabinet comprised of residents between the ages of 18 and 28, and the latter will encourage younger and older generations to mingle, share wisdom and celebrate the joys of life, such as dances, games and books.
“As you can see, it’s going to be a busy and exciting year ahead,” Nazarian said. “I promise to lead with integrity, transparency, courage and strength, but also with kindness, respect and heart. My mother, of blessed memory, was my biggest cheerleader. And while she is not here on this earth, she is here, in my heart. And I will use her encouraging words to empower others. I may be the first Iranian American woman in this position, but I certainly won’t be the last.”
Before Nazarian’s swearing-in, councilmembers and members of the public shared words of praise and gratitude for outgoing Mayor Lester Friedman.
Photo by Jessica Ogilvie
Councilmember Craig Corman, who was later sworn in as vice mayor, remarked on Friedman’s steady and compassionate demeanor.
“Everyone talks about transparency in government, but treating people with kindness and respect is equally important, and you always did that,” said Corman. “You were also unfailingly calm. I never heard you raise your voice or swear once the entire year. And I think that is actually an underrated virtue.”
Friedman, who wrapped up his second term as mayor, will continue to serve on the City Council.
Corman and Councilmember John Mirisch were both sworn in as vice mayors, with Mirisch holding the office through Sept. 30 and Corman stepping into the role on Oct. 1.
