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.
Former City Council President Mike Khader qualified for the upcoming Democratic primary on June 24, 2025. His answers are below.
Overview–What is your view of the State of the City?
Yonkers is a city with tremendous potential, but right now, too many residents are being
left behind. From rising housing costs to a growing disconnect between City Council
President leadership and the people, our city needs a reset, one rooted in transparency,
affordability, and real public engagement.
How do You View Large-Scale Development in the City?
Large-scale development should serve Yonkers residents first and not just outside
investors. Growth must be responsible, community-driven, and affordable.
What is your view (or explain your previous vote) on the 10% Affordable Housing Ordinance?
I support revisiting the 10% affordable housing requirement. With housing costs rising,
it’s time we strengthen this ordinance to reflect the needs of working families.
Are there any neighborhoods you feel have pressing concerns that the city can address?
Yes,many Yonkers neighborhoods, especially those in historically underserved areas,
have pressing concerns around affordability, infrastructure, and quality of life.
Do you support zoning reform for different neighborhoods, for example, mixed-use in Northwest Yonkers or ADU (accessory dwelling units) in East Yonkers?
Any zoning changes must be made with residents at the center, not developers.
What are your budget priorities and are there any changes you would like to see in the 2025-6 City budget?
My top budget priorities are:
● Expanding affordable housing,
● Investing in infrastructure upgrades,
● Increasing access to mental health services,
● Ensuring quality education for all children, especially those with special needs, and
● Establishing a public campaign finance system to make our elections more fair and
transparent.
Yonkers needs a budget that meets the real needs of working families — not one that benefits
insiders or special interests.
What else do you think should be a budget priority for the City of Yonkers Administration and City Council?
The City must also invest in youth services, public health, and modernizing city services to make Yonkers safer, cleaner, and more responsive.
What is your position (or explain your past vote) on extending Term Limits through the City Council?
I support reasonable term limits to ensure fresh ideas and prevent political stagnation.
I’ve long believed public service should be about people, not power. I myself opposed an
extension of a third term when I was in office.
What role do you believe the City Council should play in ensuring ethical, honest and transparent government?
The City Council must act as a check on power: asking tough questions, demanding transparency, and putting people before politics.
How should the City Council engage with the Yonkers Inspector General and the Ethic Board?
The Inspector General and the Board of Ethics are independent entities and the responsibility of the City Council is to let them do their job without pressure or any sort of interference. Other than authorizing funding in the annual budget, we shouldn’t be involved other than to cooperate with any questions or inquiries.
Read more about Mike Khader here: https://www.khader4yonkers.com/
Read other candidates’ responses here:
