Long Beach swears in three new councilmembers; county executive praises city

Long Beach held an induction ceremony Jan. 1, 2025, at which George Ennis, Tracy Johnson and Michael Reinhardt took the oath of office and pledged to serve the city.

Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, who was introduced as a special guest, praised Long Beach and congratulated the new councilmembers. "You truly have a remarkable city here. This is a great place," Blakeman said, recounting personal ties to the community and urging officials to focus on governing rather than politics.

George Ennis was inducted by Denise Ford and recited the oath to uphold the U.S. and New York constitutions and the charter and ordinances of Long Beach. Ennis thanked supporters and pledged to work with council colleagues and city staff.

Tracy Johnson was sworn in by former congressman Anthony D'Esposito. Johnson, a fourth-generation Long Beach resident and business owner, pledged accessibility and collaboration, saying she would "listen to your concerns and what you have to say" and work to keep Long Beach "affordable, safe, and thriving."

Michael Reinhardt recited the oath and used his remarks to thank campaign volunteers, staff and family. He referenced his campaign messaging, saying the administration had "freeze[d] taxes for the first time in 10 years" and that crime had been reduced, framing those items as priorities going forward.

The program included acknowledgments of judges, former council members, city staff and union leaders; attendees were invited to a reception at the Cabana Restaurant after the ceremony. The event concluded with a benediction by Rabbi Ellie Goodman, who asked for wisdom and accountability for the city's leaders.

The newly sworn members will take their seats on the City Council immediately; the council convened a short meeting after the ceremony to elect its officers (see separate article).