Mr. Speaker,
I rise to congratulate Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano as he continues into the 15th year of his leadership as chief executive of Westchester’s largest city—and the third-largest city in the State of New York—Yonkers.
He is the longest currently serving mayor of a major city in New York State, guiding a municipality of over 200,000 residents and running the largest police department, fire department, sanitation department, parks and recreation programs, senior citizen centers, and every area of municipal services, and more.
Mike and I served side by side on the Westchester County Board of Legislators, and we have worked together in the New York State Assembly. As mayor of the largest local government, we have collaborated closely. During my tenure as Westchester County Executive, we partnered on a myriad of programs—from reducing crime to improving green spaces for all to enjoy.
He has shepherded the improvement of Yonkers public education programs, with higher graduation rates and new school construction. He has also shepherded an economic development boom in the city, including—among other things—an expansion of the film industry, giving Yonkers the nickname “Hollywood on the Hudson.”
He has overseen the expansion of housing, both affordable and market-rate, attracting new residents. From the floor of the House, this proves that government can still work and achieve for everyone when led by a true leader.
Thank you, Mike Spano.
