City Council President Lakisha Collins-Bellamy, Esq. is a lifelong resident of Yonkers with nearly two decades of public service, representing all six districts. Her mission is clear: to create a YONKERS FOR ALL. Growing up in Cottage Place Gardens, Lakisha witnessed the struggles for inclusivity in neighborhoods and schools, realizing that the city’s success hinges on equitable solutions for all.

Lakisha earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from SUNY New Paltz in 1997 and began her public service career. In 2007, she played a pivotal role in a landmark settlement between the Yonkers NAACP and the City, which reinforced integration and affordable housing. That year she returned to Cottage Place Gardens as a Housing Supervisor for the Municipal Housing Authority of Yonkers (MHACY), helping those facing housing insecurity. This experience reignited her ambition to become an attorney, leading her to earn a Juris Doctor from New York Law School in May 2015 and pass the bar in June 2016. She then founded the Collins Firm, LLC, advocating in family and real estate law.

In 2021, Lakisha made history as the first African American and Woman of Color elected President of the City Council of Yonkers. During her first term, she sponsored significant legislation to improve residents’ lives, from housing access vouchers to adequate funding for schools. As Chairperson of the Budget and Finance Committee, she ensured the preservation of necessary staff in Yonkers Public Schools, which boasts a 91% graduation rate.

Lakisha understands the importance of preserving Yonkers’ rich history. She has sponsored legislation to protect landmarks and has led efforts to landmark the Immaculate Conception of St. Mary’s Church, advocating for its significance to the community.

Beyond her council duties, Lakisha fosters community engagement through job fairs, outreach programs, and support for local vendors. She believes that a thriving community is built on collaboration and inclusivity.

As a mother and wife, her commitment to public service is rooted in her daily life. Recognized as one of the Hudson Valley Power 100 for 2024, Lakisha is dedicated to creating a Yonkers that reflects its diverse residents — truly a “Yonkers for All.”