BOARD CELEBRATES AFRICAN AMERICAN HERITAGE MONTH
Honors Groundbreaking Leaders—First African Americans to Hold Key Public Safety Posts
On Monday, February 9th, the Westchester County Board of Legislators (BOL) honored Wade Hardy, the first African American Public Safety Commissioner in White Plains, and Lieutenant Khalia M. Carter, Commanding Officer of the Community Policing Unit in Peekskill, who was promoted to her current rank. Lieutenant Carter is the first African American to earn the rank of lieutenant in the 177-year history of the Peekskill Police Department.
Together, the honorees exemplify the highest standards of public service. Their careers reflect a shared commitment to leadership, integrity, and fostering trust between public safety institutions and the communities they serve.
BOL Chairman Vedat Gashi (D–New Castle, Ossining, Somers, Yorktown), who convened the ceremony and welcomed guests, said, “African American Heritage Month is a time to honor leaders whose work has a lasting impact on our communities. Commissioner Hardy and Lieutenant Carter exemplify dedication, professionalism, and leadership. Through their commitment, they have strengthened trust, built meaningful partnerships, and created opportunities that benefit all residents.”
For decades, Mount Vernon was the only municipality in Westchester County with a Black Police Commissioner. In 2026, you have four and a Black County Executive. In June 2022, Terrance Raynor became the first Black Commissioner of the Westchester County Department of Public Safety, appointed by County Executive George Latimer in 2022 (initially acting, then confirmed) after a distinguished career, including serving as Police Commissioner for Mount Vernon, fulfilling a goal to serve his community from within. Two months later, in August 2022, the Greenburgh Town Board unanimously voted to appoint GPD Captain Kobie Powell to assume the critical position of Chief of Police of the Greenburgh Police Department. Then, on June 30, 2025, Neil K. Reynolds was sworn in as the First Black Commissioner of the City of New Rochelle. And on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, White Plains Mayor Justin C. Brasch officially swore in Wade Hardy as the City’s new Public Safety Commissioner at City Hall.
BOL Vice Chair Terry Clements (D–New Rochelle, Pelham, Pelham Manor) celebrated Commissioner Hardy’s historic appointment.
“Wade Hardy has performed his duties as a Public Safety Commissioner to the highest standard. He believes that to be a great public servant, you must embody humility. He believes public safety professionals must have the integrity and courage to do what is right, not what is simply convenient. This is reflected in his exceptional service to the community.”
A former lieutenant with the White Plains Police Department, Commissioner Hardy led the Community Services Division. His work included supporting at-risk youth, improving conditions in public housing, and collaborating with community leaders. Earlier in his career, he served as a detective and detective sergeant, leading major investigations and specialized units. During a three-year assignment with the Drug
Enforcement Agency, he earned recognition for record-setting drug and asset seizures.
Commissioner Hardy then spent 12 years in corporate security leadership at Con Edison. He returned to public service in 2021 as Deputy Chief Criminal Investigator for the Westchester County District Attorney’s Office.
Commissioner Hardy serves on the board of the White Plains Youth Bureau and is a servant leader for numerous professional and community organizations, including White Plains Little League softball, for which he coached a team to three consecutive district championships. He holds degrees from Manhattan University and the University of New Haven and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy. He and his wife are proud parents and grandparents.
Now you can add to the historic number of African Americans in leadership positions in law enforcement in Westchester County, Lieutenant Khalia M. Carter is now the first African American to be promoted to the rank of Lieutenant in the 177-year history of the City of Peekskill Police Department.
County Legislator Colin D. Smith (D–Cortlandt, Peekskill, Yorktown), who was born and raised in Peekskill, spoke of his pride in honoring Lieutenant Khalia Carter.
“During Black History Month, we honor leaders whose service reflects courage, excellence, and progress. Lieutenant Carter’s distinguished career is a powerful example of Black excellence in law enforcement—marked by visionary leadership, integrity, and a deep commitment to community trust. Through her dedication to inclusive, community-centered policing, she has strengthened partnerships, inspired future generations, and created lasting change. It is with great pride that we honor Lieutenant Khalia Carter and her enduring impact in public service.”
Lieutenant Carter is a devoted law enforcement leader whose career reflects a strong commitment to public service, community partnership, and professional excellence. She began in law enforcement with the New York State Office of Mental Health, then joined the Peekskill Police Department. In 2019, she earned promotion to sergeant, and this very night was promoted to lieutenant—the first African American to attain that rank in Peekskill Police Department’s 177-year history.
As Commanding Officer of the Community Policing Unit, Lt. Carter emphasizes community engagement and transparency initiatives that build trust between the department and Peekskill residents. Lt. Carter also oversees the Administrative Division, serving as grants administrator and working with the Chief of Police on fiscal planning and operational strategy.
Throughout her career, Lt. Carter has contributed to the development of the K-9 Unit, domestic violence prevention efforts, traffic safety, child passenger safety, and records management improvements. Lt. Carter holds a Master of Public Administration degree from John Jay College of Criminal Justice, where she was inducted into the Pi Alpha Alpha National Honor Society; a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Monroe College; and an associate degree from SUNY Rockland Community College. She is a graduate of the
International Association of Chiefs of Police Women’s Leadership Institute.
