Mike Khader’s Stance and Achievements as
Yonkers City Council President 2018-2021
Education
As a strong advocate for improving education in Yonkers, Mike Khader pushed for increased funding for public schools and greater support for teachers and students. He was dedicated to ensuring that all students had access to quality education, and worked with local officials to advocate for reforms that would improve educational outcomes.
​
Khader established a Special Needs Advisory Board to address the needs of residents with disabilities, aiming to enhance inclusivity and accessibility within the community. During his tenure as Yonkers City Council President, Mike Khader emphasized enhancing resources and opportunities for children with special needs within the Yonkers Public Schools system. He actively sought collaboration with the Board of Education on various issues, including the formation of a Children With Special Needs Advisory Board. ​
​
​
​Special Needs Advisory Board​​
Affordable Housing Ordinance
Mike Khader supported responsible housing development to address Yonkers' growing need for affordable housing. Mike Khader drafted and advocated for an affordable housing ordinance designed to increase the availability of affordable housing units in Yonkers. Despite the ordinance being vetoed, Khader's efforts represented significant progress in addressing housing affordability. ​During his tenure as Yonkers City Council President, Mike Khader co-sponsored an amendment to the city's Affordable Housing Ordinance (AHO) alongside Councilwoman Shanae Williams. The proposed amendment aimed to increase the requirement for affordable housing units in new residential developments from 10% to 20%, specifically targeting developments with 100 or more units. ​
The initiative sought to address the growing need for affordable housing in Yonkers by ensuring that a larger portion of new housing projects would be accessible to low- and moderate-income residents. The proposal also included adjustments to the area median income (AMI) calculations to better reflect the income levels of Yonkers residents, making affordable housing more attainable for the local community. ​yonkerstimes.com​
Despite passing in the City Council in late June 2021, the amendment faced opposition and was later vetoed.
​
​
Law Enforcement
Khader recognized the importance of public safety and worked to enhance the relationship between law enforcement and the community. He supported initiatives to increase transparency, community policing efforts, and law enforcement training on de-escalation tactics. Mike also advocated for reforms aimed at addressing racial disparities in policing, pushing for greater accountability and improving the overall effectiveness of law enforcement in Yonkers.
Civilian Oversight of Police
Khader supported the concept of civilian oversight in law enforcement to promote transparency and accountability. He facilitated discussions between the community and the Yonkers Police Benevolent Association (PBA), including organizing Zoom meetings to deliberate the advantages and challenges of implementing body-worn cameras for officers.
Public Safety
​
During his tenure, Mike Khader prioritized reducing crime through a combination of proactive policing and community engagement. He worked closely with law enforcement and local organizations to create safer neighborhoods. Khader advocated for stronger support for at-risk youth to prevent crime before it happens, emphasizing programs that offered alternatives to criminal activity and better opportunities for young people.
​
​
Health Services
Khader placed a strong emphasis on increasing access to healthcare services for all residents of Yonkers, particularly in underserved communities. He supported expanding mental health services and creating partnerships between the city and local healthcare providers to improve overall public health.
Environment
As a proponent of sustainability, Khader focused on creating environmentally conscious policies for Yonkers. He promoted initiatives to improve public green spaces, encouraged the use of renewable energy, and supported infrastructure projects that would make Yonkers a more eco-friendly city. Khader backed policies to address climate change, reduce the city’s carbon footprint, and create more walkable neighborhoods.
​
Environmental Initiatives
Khader contributed to drafting environmental initiatives aimed at promoting sustainability and environmental protection in Yonkers. These initiatives focused on reducing the city's carbon footprint and enhancing green spaces, reflecting his commitment to environmental stewardship.
Mike Khader's Vision for Yonkers, 2025:
A Commitment to Progress and Integrity
Promoting Public Education
Ensuring Quality and Equity for Our ChildrenI want Yonkers to be a place where our children can thrive with a high quality public education. This means investing in our schools, supporting teachers, and creating programs that give every child the opportunity to succeed. I’m committed to improving educational outcomes and making sure no child is left behind, with strong support for both afterschool programs and vocational training that prepare them for life beyond the classroom.
Law Enforcement
We need law enforcement that works for everyone. Under my leadership, we will work to rebuild the relationship between the police and the community while giving police the resources they need to fight crime in our communities. I am committed to supporting community policing efforts, increasing transparency in law enforcement practices, and ensuring that police officers are well-trained. Public safety is paramount and it must always come with respect for the rights of every individual.
.jpeg)
Health Services: Access for All, No One Left Behind
Health services are a right, not a privilege. I’m committed to improving access to healthcare for all Yonkers residents, particularly underserved communities. This includes expanding mental health services, ensuring seniors and vulnerable populations receive the care they need, and promoting healthier lifestyles through community outreach and support. I believe everyone should have access to quality care, and I will work tirelessly to reduce health disparities across our city.
Protecting the Environment: Building a Sustainable Future
As we work to revitalize Yonkers, we must ensure that our city is also sustainable for future generations. My commitment to environmental responsibility means pushing for policies that reduce our carbon footprint, create green spaces, and encourage the use of renewable energy. I’ll support initiatives that promote walkable neighborhoods and environmentally friendly development to ensure Yonkers remains a great place to live for years to come.
Restoring Integrity and Trust in Local Government
My time away from the office has only strengthened my commitment to public service and to putting Yonkers first. I am committed to restoring transparency, accountability, and common-sense leadership in our city government. The people of Yonkers deserve a government that listens to their needs and works for their benefit—not one driven by personal interests.It’s time to restore trust in our local government. The people of Yonkers deserve nothing less, and I pledge to make their needs my top priority.
