Johana Beresky
I’m running for City Council because I love where I live! I care deeply about this community and want to help shape a future that honors what makes Mercer Island special. I bring real-world leadership experience, a collaborative mindset, and a deep commitment to public service. With the trust of local leaders and the support of neighbors, I’m ready to serve—and to make sure our city stays safe, welcoming, and resilient for the next generation.
Meet Johana
Personal
Johana is the proud parent of two kids in the Mercer Island School District. Her parents immigrated from Colombia when she was five years old, and she became a naturalized citizen while getting her bachelor’s degree from Cornell University. She then moved to Los Angeles and completed an MBA from Pepperdine University.
She moved to Mercer Island in 2009 and has called this home since then.
She’s fluent in Spanish and working on learning French.
Professional
Johana has nearly two decades of Operations and HR Management experience, providing her with a solid foundation in organizational leadership, strategic planning, and problem-solving.
Most recently she was the West Coast VP for a global pet care company where she led a high-performing team of field operators across seven states. Now she’s a small-business management consultant.
She’s also a Certified Veterinary Practice Manager and Certified in Mental Health First Aid.
Community
You may have seen Johana knocking on doors in your neighborhood after the bomb cyclone, checking in on seniors to ensure their safety and well-being. Her proactive approach and genuine concern for the welfare of others exemplify the type of leadership she aims to bring to the city council. Whether attending the Breakfast of Champions or participating in MIFC events, Johana is always eager to engage with and support her fellow residents.
Running for Mercer Island City Council, Johana seeks to leverage her experience, education, and passion for community service to make a meaningful impact. She is committed to addressing key issues that impact our island. Her goal is to create an inclusive, supportive, and thriving community for all.
My Priorities
Prioritizing Health and Safety
I care deeply about the safety and well-being of every Mercer Island resident. As a CERT volunteer who is also trained in Mental Health First Aid, I understand the importance of mental health care and compassionate crisis support. When a major storm hit the Island, I went door-to-door checking on seniors—because showing up matters. I’ll partner with first responders and community organizations to address traffic safety, emergency preparedness, and public health, making sure everyone feels safe, supported, and heard.
Smart, Sustainable Infrastructure
Strong infrastructure is essential to a safe, livable, and future-ready Mercer Island. With a background in operations and strategic planning, I’ll bring strong oversight to ensure major efforts like the new Public Safety and Maintenance Facility stay on track and on budget. I’ll also push for environmentally responsible solutions that strengthen our Island’s resilience and protect its natural beauty for generations to come.
Revitalizing the Town Center
I’ll bring a hands-on approach to support local businesses, improve walkability and parking, expand shuttle service, and attract new energy to the area. My goal is to preserve Mercer Island’s small-town character while embracing smart, community-driven growth that keeps our local economy strong.
