Inside Government is a Q&A series that gives New Yorkers a glimpse inside the role of the elected officials who represent them. This edition of Inside Government with PoliticsNY, sponsored by AARP New York City, features New York City Council Member Tyrell Hankerson. Council Member Hankerson represents the 28th Council District in Queens which encompasses the neighborhoods of South Jamaica, South Richmond Hill, Rochdale Village and South Ozone Park.
What are your goals for 2026?
My goals, in 2026 and every year after, are to improve quality of life, meaning cleaner, safer and more affordable communities. I am also focused on enhancing partnerships with city agencies and residents, ensuring that our communities receive exactly what they deserve: support on local issues as well as greater investment in parks, community centers, schools and infrastructure. I will also push for equitable budgeting that is reflected in what residents can see and feel.
How does your work in the City Council affect constituents in their daily lives?
Constituents interact with what the council oversees daily, whether it is sanitation, roads, street signs, parks, schools, businesses, etc. Through budget, legislation and oversight, I push agencies to fix problems sooner, not just for my district but for NYC at large. For “The Great 28” specifically, I fight for our fair share of resources that improve daily life, things like safer intersections, more green spaces and community programming, and better infrastructure that keep our neighborhood thriving.
What services does your office provide to constituents?
Our office helps constituents navigate city agencies and access services, including but not limited to tenant and landlord resources, housing and NYCHA support, benefits enrollment, sanitation complaints, tree and park issues, education, street signs and roads, small business assistance, and much more. To ensure we are accessible, we host flexible office hours, including late Wednesdays (10am-7pm) and the first Saturdays of every month (12pm-2pm).
What is the top issue in your district and how are you working to resolve it?
A major issue is the quality of life concerns involving public safety and cleanliness. My office is addressing it by working with NYPD, DSNY, DOT, NYC Parks (DPR), clergy and other community leaders. I believe that we are closer to the solution(s) when working together rather than apart. I will also be working with my colleagues in government to advance legislation that will improve sanitation services, youth engagement and affordability.
From AARP New York City: Will you commit to raising the percentage of the overall NYC budget that goes to NYC Aging/DFTA to ensure older adults can age with dignity in the communities they helped build?
Older adults are the jewels of our communities, and they deserve care and dignity after a lifetime of work that benefited our neighborhoods. They shouldn’t be forced to struggle for basic support. That being said, I will absolutely work with my colleagues to ensure our elders can age safely with reliable services and clear access to resources. They did their part for New York City. Now it is our responsibility to do ours!
