Mayor O’Neill led the remaking of the city’s economy after the U.S. Navy’s departure, including rebuilding of the downtown waterfront, with the Grand Prix of Long Beach at its center. She was directly involved in adjusting the course to accommodate redevelopment while keeping the spotlight on the Grand Prix.
Beverly Lewis O’Neill was born and raised in Long Beach, the city she often said she loved.
After a 31-year career in education culminating in five years as president/superintendent of Long Beach City College, Beverly was elected mayor in 1994. She was the first big city mayor to win a third term through a write-in campaign, serving 12 years.
Mayor O’Neill led the remaking of the city’s economy after the U.S. Navy’s departure, including rebuilding of the downtown waterfront, with the Grand Prix of Long Beach at its center. She was directly involved in adjusting the course to accommodate redevelopment while keeping the spotlight on the Grand Prix.
In her 12 years as mayor, Mayor O’Neill never missed opening ceremonies for the Grand Prix event, addressing the crowd in her trademark black and white checkered scarf. She embraced the role of biggest cheerleader, for the city and the race.
