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.
Pete Spano (no relation to Mayor Spano), 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 at a pivotal moment—a city of energy, momentum, and undeniable growth. But with growth comes responsibility. If we want a future where every family thrives, we must ensure development matches our services, schools that prepare, safety that protects, and transportation that connects. Our vision must be clear: we grow together or not at all. And I believe we’re ready to grow with intention and care
How do You View Large-Scale Development in the City?
The development happening is exciting, because it reflects something deeper: people believe in Yonkers. But belief must be matched with support. As we rise, we must lift our
core, our police, fire, teachers, and transit workers. Let’s build a Yonkers that works for everyone, not just from the top down, but from the inside out.
What is your view (or explain your previous vote) on the 10% Affordable Housing Ordinance?
I believe in something more powerful than policy, collaboration. If this conversation reopens, then let’s make it a real dialogue, with residents and developers side by side. That’s how trust is built. That’s how lasting solutions emerge. Because when it comes to affordability, we’re not opponents—we’re partners in progress.
Do you support zoning reform for different neighborhoods, for example, mixed-use in Northwest Yonkers or ADU (accessory dwelling units) in East Yonkers?
Every corner of Yonkers has a heartbeat of its own. That’s why I listen first. Whether it’s mixed-use space for small shops in the northwest or flexible housing options on the East Side, the goal is the same, supporting real families living real lives. We must update zoning not just for buildings, but for people’s lives. And yes, I’ve heard you—parking in areas like Bronx River Road needs real solutions, not just conversations.
What do you think are the most important parts of the Budget and would you advocate for any changes to the 2025-26 City Budget?
Our future begins in the classroom. That’s why my first priority is education—fully funded, fully focused. But we must also care for the whole person, physical and mental health, especially now. I believe the proposed 2.68% tax increase is too steep. We can be responsible and compassionate, I’d advocate for 1.5%. Because fiscal discipline and community compassion are not opposites—they’re both forms of respect.
Do you have any other Budget Priorities?
Beyond the numbers, we must budget for dignity, safe streets, clean neighborhoods, support for our seniors, and opportunities for our youth. Budgets aren’t just spreadsheets, they’re a moral reflection of what we value.
What is your position (or explain your past vote) on extending Term Limits through the City Council?
Term limits keep us honest and responsive. Public service should never become a permanent seat, it should be a temporary privilege. While I haven’t voted on this before, I support fair, reasonable term limits. When people know their time is limited, they act with urgency, clarity, and purpose.
What role do you believe the City Council should play in ensuring ethical, honest and transparent government?
The City Council’s job isn’t just to govern, it’s to earn trust daily. That means transparency must be the default, not the exception. We owe our neighbors clear answers, clean processes, and consistent accountability. Yonkers deserves nothing less.
How should the City Council engage with the Yonkers Inspector General and the Ethic Board?
The City Council should treat the Inspector General and Ethics Board as trusted partners. By working together and staying accountable, we can help build a stronger, more honest government that truly serves the people of Yonkers.
These offices aren’t watchdogs—they’re partners, and when we treat them as such, we create a government that doesn’t just act right, but inspires confidence. I believe in strong engagement, regular dialogue, and mutual respect, because a government that polices itself earns the right to lead others.
Read more about Pete Spano here: https://www.peterspano.org/
Read other candidates’ answers:
