White Plains, NY — The Westchester County Board of Legislators on Monday unanimously approved the budget for Westchester Community College’s upcoming fiscal year.

The budget of around $165 million – essentially flat from the prior year’s budget -- includes around $30 million from the county, as well as nearly $2 million to cover capital projects like technology upgrades.

Catherine Borgia (D- Briarcliff Manor, Cortlandt, Croton-on-Hudson, Ossining, Peekskill), chair of the Board’s Budget and Appropriations Committee, said, "Access to quality, affordable education is more important than ever if Westchester residents are going to be prepared to compete in today's workplace and be able to participate fully in tomorrow's opportunities.  WCC is a crucial part of that -- helping residents of all ages develop the knowledge and skills they need to thrive.”

Board Chair Ben Boykin (D – Harrison, Scarsdale, White Plains) said, “When we approve the school’s budget we know we’re investing in the future of Westchester County. I want to thank WCC President Dr. Belinda Miles, as well as WCC CFO, Vice President and Dean of Administrative Services Brian Murphy for their outstanding leadership in making WCC the institution it is today.”

With around 13,000 full and part-time students, and continuing education programs that reach thousands more each semester, Westchester County Community College is the county’s largest educational institution. It offers more than 60 associate and certificate programs across its main campus in Valhalla, as well as at extension sites in New Rochelle, Mount Vernon, Yonkers, Shrub Oak, Mahopac, Ossining, Port Chester, Peekskill and White Plains.

The budget approved on Monday covers the school’s fiscal year running from September 1, 2018 to August 31, 2019.