Modernizing Public Safety
Integrating 3,000+ private security cameras into our Real-Time Watch Center. Deploying drone technology for rapid emergency response. Expanding our community-based patrol programs.
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Lester Friedman for City Council
Protecting Our Future. Preserving Our Village.
Tested leadership for a changing Beverly Hills. Proven results when it matters most.
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Meet Your Candidate
A Beverly Hills Story
Lester Friedman isn't just a politician - he's been a neighbor for over four decades. A UCLA graduate and Southwestern School of Law-trained attorney, mediator, and judge pro tem, he also serves as the official scorer for UCLA Men's Basketball - a role that speaks to his deep roots in our community and his commitment to institutions that matter.
When COVID-19 struck in 2020, Lester was serving as Mayor. While others debated, he acted - coordinating with health officials, supporting local businesses through the crisis, and ensuring vulnerable residents received essential services. During the civil unrest that same year, his steady leadership helped maintain peace in our streets.
But leadership isn't just about crisis management. It's about showing up every day, listening to residents at planning meetings, fighting overdevelopment at City Hall, and making the difficult decisions that protect Beverly Hills for future generations.
Residence
Beverly Hills since 1982
Education
UCLA '73 / Southwestern Law JD '76
Served As
Mayor in 2020 and 2024
Community Role
UCLA Basketball Official Scorer
A Clear Vision for Beverly Hills
Priorities That
Deliver Results
Not just promises. A proven track record of taking action on the issues that matter most to our community. Here's what I'm focused on.
Fiscal Responsibility
Maintaining our AAA bond rating. Keeping reserves at 50% of operating budget. Delivering city services without a municipal income tax or sales tax increase.
Result: $100M+ in reserves, debt-free operations
Preserving Our Village
Fighting overdevelopment that threatens our residential character. Protecting single-family neighborhoods. Ensuring new construction respects scale and architectural heritage.
Learn MoreWhen It Mattered Most
Proven Leadership in Crisis
When our community faced unprecedented challenges, Lester didn't just respond - he led.
2020
COVID-19 Response
As Mayor during the pandemic, coordinated local relief efforts, established business support programs, and ensured vulnerable residents received vaccines and essential services.
Zero municipal layoffs
2020
Protecting Our Community
During civil unrest, worked around the clock with law enforcement to protect businesses and residents while supporting peaceful expression and dialogue.
24/7 emergency coordination
Ongoing
Standing Against Hate
Vocal advocate against antisemitism and all forms of bigotry. Building bridges between communities while ensuring safety and respect for all residents.
Community unity initiatives
Community Support
Voices of Beverly Hills
Lester has consistently demonstrated that he puts Beverly Hills residents first. His leadership during the pandemic kept our community safe and our economy strong.
We need experienced leaders who understand public safety. Lester has been a steadfast advocate for our department and the safety of every resident.
As a 40-year resident, I've seen many council members come and go. Lester is the real deal - he actually listens and follows through on his commitments.
Lester's dedication to protecting our neighborhoods from overdevelopment gives me confidence that Beverly Hills will maintain its unique character for generations to come.
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