Public Budget Hearings To Be Held In Westchester

WHITE PLAINS, NY — County Executive George Latimer announced Monday that county taxpayers will have a chance to make their voices heard prior to the submission of the county executive’s first proposed Westchester County Budget. Two public input sessions will be held from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Oct. 23.

The 2 p.m. session will be held at Mercy College-Yorktown Heights Campus located at 2651 Strang Boulevard in Yorktown Heights. The 7 p.m. session will be at the Elizabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University, Moot Court Room, located at 78 North Broadway in White Plains.

These sessions are in addition to the public hearings held by the Board of Legislators.

Latimer said his administration is determined to abide by the principle that government is by the people and for the people.

"I hope Westchester residents take this opportunity and loudly make their voice heard. It is no secret that our County faces serious financial issues — but together we will work to fix these challenges which lay ahead,” he said.

This idea of pre-budget submission public input sessions was first raised by members of Westchester’s nonprofit community and Latimer’s transition team prior to taking office Jan. 1.

Business Council of Westchester President/CEO Dr. Marsha Gordon said the council urges the business community to attend and participate in the budget hearings.

“It is critical that both the county executive and the members of the county’s Board of Legislators hear from the businesses of all sizes on their concerns, issues and priorities regarding the County’s 2019 Executive Budget,” she said

Nonprofit Westchester Executive Director Joanna Straub thanked Latimer and his administration for a commitment to transparency regarding the 2019 budget.

“Nonprofits appreciate the opportunity to voice their concerns about the budget — as we work closely in partnership with Westchester County to help everyone reach their potential so they can contribute fully to the success of our entire community," she said.

“The trend of an Administration seeking public input on the proposed budget after it has already been submitted often created contentious public meetings where some taxpayers felt that solicitation of public input was just for show. That will be no more,” Latimer said.

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