At a recent village board meeting, Mamaroneck Mayor Sharon Torres ignited intense debate over the proposed Hunter Tier lot affordable housing development, raising serious concerns about the project’s approval process. This controversy unfolds against a backdrop of longstanding scrutiny faced by predominantly white communities in Westchester County for their lack of affordable housing.

Mayor Torres presented a series of emails and communications dating back to 2021 that suggested a potentially unethical relationship between village officials and the preferred developer, Westhab (WAB).

Key points raised by Mayor Torres included:

1. As early as July 2021, WESTHAB had identified the Hunter Tier lot as their preferred site, well before the RFP process began.
2. The RFP was allegedly tailored to favor WESTHAB, including language that gave preference to developers who had previously worked in the village.
3. Emails revealed that some village officials were eager to push the project through before changes in board composition.
4. WESTHAB was involved in the process from site selection through to the present, raising questions about fairness in the bidding process.

Mayor Torres emphasized that while affordable housing is a critical issue, the process for this particular project appeared flawed and potentially unethical. She stressed that these concerns were not an argument against affordable housing itself, but rather about the integrity of the approval process.

“Every single person on this board, and that includes me, we do understand there’s a crisis with affordable housing,” Mayor Torres stated. “That’s not what’s under fire here. It’s whether or not the process for this RFP was ethical, unethical, or even worse.”

The revelations have added to existing community divisions over the project. Many residents had previously expressed concerns about the speed and transparency of the development process, often contrasting it with the pace of other village priorities.

This situation is particularly sensitive given the history of affordable housing issues in Westchester County. For years, predominantly white communities in the county have been under scrutiny for their lack of affordable housing options, leading to accusations of exclusionary practices and even legal challenges. The current controversy in this village highlights the ongoing struggle to balance the need for affordable housing with concerns about proper procedures and community input.

As the controversy unfolds, Mayor Torres promised to share more information as it becomes available. The situation highlights the challenges faced by local governments in addressing housing affordability while maintaining public trust and following proper procedures.

The village board will likely face increased scrutiny and calls for transparency as they navigate this contentious issue in the coming weeks and months. Mayor Torres’s outspoken stance on this matter suggests a potential shift in the village’s approach to the Hunter Tier lot development and possibly future affordable housing projects. It also underscores the broader challenges Westchester County communities face in addressing longstanding affordable housing deficits while ensuring fair and transparent development processes.

With profound sorrow and deep respect, we announce the passing of the Honorable Herman Keith, former County Legislator and trailblazer, on June 22, 2024. At the age of 88, Mr. Keith’s courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease came to an end, leaving our community bereft of a true pioneer and champion of justice.

The Honorable Herman Keith’s legacy as Westchester’s first African-American County Legislator cannot be overstated. In an era fraught with challenges, he shouldered the immense responsibility of breaking barriers and paving the way for future generations of Black leaders in local politics. His unwavering dedication and perseverance in the face of adversity opened doors that had long been closed, forever changing our county’s public service landscape.

Mr. Keith’s life was a testament to resilience’s power and representation’s importance. His groundbreaking election and subsequent years of service not only transformed the political arena in Westchester but also inspired countless individuals to pursue careers in public service. The sacrifices he made, the challenges he overcame, and the progress he championed have left an indelible mark on our community’s history.

A pillar of strength in Westchester County and his beloved Yonkers, the Honorable Herman Keith leaves behind a legacy that transcends his years in office. His tireless advocacy, dedicated public service, and commitment to equality have set a standard of excellence that will continue to guide and inspire for generations to come.

To honor this remarkable leader and pay our respects, a memorial service will be held on July 20 at 11 am at Community Baptist Church, 160 North Broadway, Yonkers, NY. Let us come together to celebrate the life and achievements of a man who reshaped our community and whose influence will be felt for years.

From Military Service to Community Leadership

Originally from Alabama, Keith was a United States Army veteran who attained the rank of 1st Lieutenant. After relocating to Yonkers, he worked as an Engineer for Perkin Elmer Optical Company and later as an Underwater Research Scientist at Columbia University. Keith’s career later shifted towards community development, where he managed programs for the Yonkers Community Development Agency and the Haitian Refugee Assistance Program.

Pioneering Civil Rights Advocate

As president of the Yonkers Branch of the NAACP, Keith led a landmark desegregation lawsuit against the City of Yonkers. His efforts were instrumental in establishing equal access to quality integrated education and fair housing opportunities for all residents.

In 1983, Keith made history as the first African-American elected to the Westchester County Board of Legislators. During his 12-year tenure, he served as Minority Whip and Minority Leader, earning respect from colleagues and constituents alike for his open-mindedness and commitment to public service.

Keith’s legislative achievements were numerous, including the South Africa Divestment Bill, the Banks Community Reinvestment Act, Youth Employment Job Training Programs, Health Care Initiatives, the Invest in Kids Program, and JobSTAR.

Champion for Youth and Community Development

Beyond his political career, Keith was a passionate advocate for the positive development of young African-American males. He frequently spoke at schools, civic organizations, and religious institutions, promoting self-worth and positive self-image.

In his later years, Keith founded Hudson River Consulting Group, providing valuable consulting services in development and construction. His expertise and extensive network proved invaluable to businesses seeking funding, grants, and loans.

A Lasting Legacy

Keith is survived by his wife, Gail Adams, and five children. His community involvement extended to numerous boards and committees, including the Nepperhan Community Center, Black Democrats of Westchester, and the Yonkers Community Action Program.

His influence reached national media, with appearances on the Donahue Show, McNeil Lehrer Newshour, and Nightline. Keith also served as a consultant for various projects, including the City of Yonkers Police & Firefighter Recruitment Program and the Westchester County Waterfront study.

The Honorable Herman Keith’s passing closes a transformative chapter in Westchester County’s history. His enduring legacy shines brightest through the lives of young people, especially young Black men, for whom he was a tireless advocate and inspiration. Keith personified Black excellence – intelligent, eloquent, and influential in both appearance and speech. His commanding presence in positions of power and authority set a powerful example for young Black men of my era, offering a vivid illustration of what they could aspire to become. Keith’s life and career provided a crucial model of success and leadership at a time when such examples were sorely needed.

Mr. Keith’s unwavering dedication to uplifting youth was the cornerstone of his public service. He recognized that the future of our community rested in the hands of its young people, and he devoted himself to ensuring they had the tools, opportunities, and confidence to succeed. His frequent appearances at schools, civic organizations, and religious institutions were not mere formalities but passionate calls to action, encouraging young Black men to embrace their self-worth and envision a future without limits.

Through his groundbreaking achievements as the first African-American County Legislator, Mr. Keith didn’t just open doors—he built a bridge for future generations to cross. His courage in facing and overcoming systemic barriers served as a living example to young Black men that they too could aspire to positions of leadership and influence..

Though he may no longer walk among us, the Honorable Herman Keith’s spirit of service, his unyielding commitment to equality, and his fierce advocacy for youth empowerment endure. His life stands as a testament to what can be achieved through perseverance, integrity, and a dedication to community. For generations to come, young people in Westchester County, especially young Black men, will find in Mr. Keith’s story the inspiration to pursue their dreams, challenge injustice, and work tirelessly for the betterment of their communities.

Black Westchester celebrates the life & legacy of the Honorable Herman Keith of Episode 401 of the People Before Politics Radio Show, Sunday, July 13th. He was a true Black Westchester Legend!