Introduction: The Yonkers Ledger sent its questionnaire to all seven City Council President Candidates. Six of the seven candidates sent in responses which are posted online without editorial comment and with light edits for clarity or formatting. The Yonkers Ledger will conduct follow up interviews with each of the six candidates who responded.
Ron Schutté qualified for the upcoming Republican Primary on June 24, 2025. His answers are below.
Overview- What is your view of the State of the City?
How do You View Large-Scale Development in the City?
I am a strong supporter of “Smart Development”. This includes making sure that all buildings conform to “Green Standards” and that valid environmental impact studies are conducted and standards are complied with. The question that should be asked is: How much development is too much? How many movie studios do we need to be called “Hollywood on The Hudson”? How many large rental apartment buildings do we need? How many Storage Facilities does a municipality the size of Yonkers need? Are the tax incentives and zoning changes provided to developers designed to benefit the residents of Yonkers or the developers?
What is your view (or explain your previous vote) on the 10% Affordable Housing Ordinance?
I would be in favor of increasing the percentage if we can insure that current Yonkers residents benefit from it. I would much rather develop programs for smaller scale projects that promote ownership. Providing additional apartments for transient residents does nothing to support local businesses and assist in building wealth through ownership. We need to reinvest in our communities by bringing in community banks to provide access to capital to buy COOPS or Condominiums in our city.
Which neighborhoods do you think need attention from the City Council?
Getty Square seems to be an area that could use smart development. The key is to maintain the look, feel and flavor of the area, upgrading safety and affordability of the neighborhood while monitoring gentrification.
Do you support zoning reform for different neighborhoods, for example, mixed-use in Northwest Yonkers or ADU (accessory dwelling units) in East Yonkers?
I will only support a zoning change that improves the quality of life. Zoning changes must look at everything from infrastructure items i.e. sewers, street size and most importantly parking. Neighborhood retail is extremely important because it not only provides convenience but builds community. ADU’s in single family units will only serve to degrade the quality of life and has the potential to be abused by investors loading up properties with renters that will not promote community but only serve to force homeowners to leave Yonkers.
What do you think are the most important parts of the Budget and would you advocate for any changes to the 2025-2026 City Budget?
My concerns are maintaining the city services at the highest level possible. Contracts for most of the city service unions will need to be addressed. I believe in fair contracts. Payroll costs are the largest item in any budget. A closer look at trimming or eliminating patronage jobs needs to be examined. Increased funding to provide for infrastructure repairs, maintenance and/or replacement is necessary to maintain quality of life.
Do you have any other budget priorities?
The Council representatives should prioritize service to their constituents and not themselves or the administration. Seriously look at conflicts of interest that each may have and recuse themselves from votes or issues that impact a decision. The City of Yonkers administration should access every decision, project or proposal on the basis of “Does this improve the quality of life for every resident of Yonkers”!
What is your position (or explain your past vote) on extending Term Limits through the City Council?
I am firmly in favor of term limits and will introduce legislation to return City of Yonkers elected officials to two terms. Extended terms allow for elected officials to overtime prioritize serving themselves and their partners rather than serving the people!
What role do you believe the City Council should play in ensuring ethical, honest and transparent government?
As stated, conflicts of interests need to be acknowledged during both committee meetings and full council sessions. They should abstain from any vote and recuse themselves from any meetings. Full background investigations should be conducted on every council member prior to swearing into office.
How should the City Council engage with the Yonkers Inspector General and the Ethic Board?
Confidential engagement if an issue of ethics, conflict of interest or illegal activity should arise.
Read more about Ron Schutte here: https://friendsofronschutte.com
Read other candidates’ answers:
