Kevin Riley: Public Appearances and Media

Podcast and Video Appearances

Riley has appeared on multiple podcast and video programs discussing his background and legislative work. These include the Boro4Boro podcast for an episode on the City of Yes initiative, a segment titled "Councilman Kevin Riley: The Bronx, 12th District, Dad Gang, Family, Education and Public Servant," a feature titled "From Avoiding Politics to Fighting for Change: Council Member Kevin C. Reilly's Story," and the Quien Tu Eres podcast for an episode titled "Leading Community with Kevin Riley" . His personal Linktree page aggregates links to these media appearances alongside his legislative work and op-ed contributions .

Op-Ed Writing

Riley authored an op-ed in amNewYork titled "The Way Forward to Lower Housing Costs and Create Homes," in which he laid out his perspective on addressing the city's housing crisis through zoning reform and affordability requirements . The piece was published in connection with the City of Yes legislative debate during the 2024 session.

The Dad Gang National Media

Riley's co-founding of The Dad Gang has generated media coverage beyond the local political sphere. The organization partnered with the Steve Harvey Show, bringing national attention to its mission of reshaping perceptions of Black fatherhood . The Dad Gang's programming, including its signature Strollin' with the Homies events in which Black fathers gather with their children in public parks, has been featured in community and national outlets . Riley lists his role as a founding member of The Dad Gang on his personal Instagram profile and official Council biography .

Community Conversations Series

Riley maintains a regular schedule of community conversation events in District 12, hosting sessions on topics including NYC Parks programming, storm resiliency, discretionary funding applications, and education policy . These sessions are held at locations throughout the district and are promoted through his official Council page and social media channels. He also hosts annual participatory budgeting cycles allowing residents to vote on capital project priorities .

Public Events and District Presence

Riley has maintained a visible district presence through events including annual Shred Fest document disposal events in partnership with the NYC Department of Sanitation, backpack giveaways at local churches, and appearances at community gatherings organized by political allies including Speaker Heastie's annual barbecue . He has attended the New York Botanical Garden's annual Orchid Dinner at The Plaza in his capacity as a Board Trustee .

TikTok Small Business Event (2026)

In May 2026, Riley appeared alongside Speaker Julie Menin at a TikTok small business event promoting his proposed legislation to match small businesses with social media content creators for marketing assistance (Intro. 408-2026) . The event highlighted his focus on economic development for small businesses in the digital economy.

City Council Hearings and Floor Speeches

Riley has presided over high-profile public hearings in his capacity as chair of the Subcommittee on Zoning and Franchises and subsequently the Land Use Committee. His chairing of the City of Yes for Housing Opportunity hearings in October and November 2024 drew significant media coverage, with multiple outlets noting his management of a contentious public comment process at City Hall . He has also appeared at press conferences alongside Speaker Adams and fellow council members for the FDNY Diversity bills announcement and signing ceremony .

Adjunct Teaching

Riley maintains a public role as an Adjunct Professor at Metropolitan College of New York, where he teaches public policy. Guest lecturers have visited his classroom, and he has shared his teaching activities through social media .

Children's Book

Riley is the author of a children's book titled Hopping Through Life, which is listed on his personal Instagram profile alongside his roles as a council member, professor, and founding member of The Dad Gang .

2026 New York City Power 100

City and State New York included Riley on its 2026 New York City Power 100 list, recognizing his elevation to the Land Use Committee chairmanship and his prior work on zoning and development issues .