Tyrell Hankerson sworn in to lead Queens’ ‘Great 28’

New York City officially welcomed Tyrell “Ty” Hankerson as the new Council Member for District 28, which encompasses the Queens neighborhoods of South Jamaica, South Richmond Hill, Rochdale Village, and South Ozone Park. It was a packed inauguration ceremony on Sunday evening, Jan. 4, 2026, at Rochdale Village’s Grand Ballroom, where attendance exceeded the venue’s 550-person capacity and required two overflow rooms.

The event featured performances by The Bartlett Contemporaries, Untouchable Movement Dance Company, and the Elite Marching Band of Queens, as well as renditions of national anthems.

Hundreds of residents, faith leaders, community advocates, and elected officials gathered to witness the historic moment as Hankerson was formally sworn in by his mentor, colleague, and predecessor, former New York City Council Speaker Adrienne E. Adams. The ceremony marked a full-circle moment for Hankerson, who previously served as Adams’ District Chief of Staff and Community Outreach Director.

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“Tonight marks a new chapter for ‘The Great 28,’ and I’m stepping into this role with gratitude, faith, and a clear mandate from the people who put their trust in me. I’ve been in the rooms where commitments are made, and I’ve seen how easily communities get stalled out by bureaucracy and selective amnesia,” said New York City Council Member Ty Hankerson.

Adrienne E. Adams administered the oath of office and reflected on Hankerson’s readiness: “I proudly install my successor, Ty Hankerson, who has served this community with experience and love. It is fitting he now embarks on this next level of public service,” said Adams.

Hankerson ran a robust campaign focused on quality-of-life issues for District 28 residents. His immediate priorities include expanding youth services by increasing access to jobs, internships, and mentorships. He also identified strengthening support for seniors as an early priority, pledging to protect senior programming and maintain senior centers’ operations. Addressing affordable housing remains critical, and Hankerson reiterated his commitment to fighting gentrification and rising costs. He affirmed during his inaugural address that delivering on these targeted priorities will guide his first actions as a council member.

“We face real challenges, like rising costs, housing pressures, food deserts, flooding, sanitation, and safety, but we can tackle them together without losing our neighborhoods’ dignity,” Hankerson said.

Leaders from across the city and state government voiced strong support for Hankerson. New York State Attorney General Letitia James urged him to “speak truth to power,” while U.S. Representative Gregory Meeks called him “the right man at the right time.” Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams highlighted Hankerson’s grounding in service, and Comptroller Mark Levine pointed to the size of the crowd as evidence of public confidence in the new council member.

“Public service isn’t about titles — it’s about showing up, listening, and fighting for those ignored,” said Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams. “Ty’s journey reflects that. I look forward to protecting tenants, uplifting working families, and ensuring the city works for everyone.”

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr., District Attorney Melinda Katz, Speaker-designate Julie Menin,  New York State Senator James Sanders Jr., Leroy Comrie, and several other elected officials praised Hankerson’s experience, leadership, and deep roots in the district.

“I’ve got to watch you over the course of the last near decade just doing the work… every step of the way, Ty was there. You stayed above the fray. Congratulations, brother,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “Serve the people. You could never go wrong serving the people. So proud of you on this day. It’s a great day for District 28.”

During our interview in the overflow room before his inauguration, Council Member Hankerson spoke candidly about his goals for District 28, his plans to stay connected with residents, and his intention to ensure accountability in his office.

His central focus is improving quality of life, with particular emphasis on sanitation, public safety, affordability, and education and youth programming. He argues these everyday conditions determine whether families feel secure, seniors respected, and young people hopeful about their futures. Early in his term, constituents can expect strong follow-through with city agencies and a visible, consistent presence across the district to ensure services are delivered equitably.

Accessibility is a key pillar of his approach. To remain closely connected to residents, Hankerson plans to establish two district offices — one in South Ozone Park and another in Rochdale Village — so residents can easily reach their council member without crossing the district. He also intends to build neighborhood coalitions to maintain regular, block-by-block engagement and keep his office grounded in community concerns.

On accountability, Hankerson emphasizes clear, proactive communication. His office will take responsibility for updating residents on issues they raise, reducing the burden on constituents to chase answers. Neighborhood coalitions will facilitate two-way communication and help anticipate recurring issues.

A lifelong District 28 resident, Hankerson brings experience in youth programming, public health, and local government. His core priorities include lowering living costs, supporting youth development, expanding senior services, and improving city services.