- Reopening of two mental health clinics previously closed by the former County Executive
- A reduction from 10% to 5% for parent share contributions for families eligible for subsidized childcare
- $500,000 for neighborhood community health centers in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds
- $750,000 in in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for Westchester Connects, a partnership with Westchester County Association to increase internet access to residents
- Funding to establish the Office of Police Accountability (OPA)
- Increases to community-based organizations to help fund services
- $350,000 of additional smoking-cessation funding for education and outreach, and to increase coordination with NYS smoking cessation programs.
The BOL weighed public recommendations on which items to add to the Executive’s proposal through a series of mini-public hearings, with a Charter-mandated public hearing at the Board’s Chamber scheduled for Wednesday, December 7, 2022. After hearing feedback from the public, the Board has firmly committed to working toward the following items for future budgetary consideration:
- Reducing Bee-Line Paratransit fees
- Zero Waste initiatives
- Access to Counsel, a legal services program for tenants fighting eviction
Chairwoman Catherine Borgia stated, “We know that for our communities to thrive, we need more funding for health care, mental health, and social services. We know that a strong investment in early education and childcare are building blocks to a great future for both children and parents. We’re prioritizing items that will set the County on a course toward equity, stability, and prosperity.” She continued, “I thank County Executive George Latimer for his collaborative leadership in developing a robust budget centered around shared values and principles.”
Majority Leader Christopher Johnson added, “While we look around the nation and the difficult times we face, Westchester County remains in a strong position.” Leader Johnson added, “In this budget, we supported our priorities, not just by talking, but by passing historic laws and making they’re funded for years to come.”