Board Votes to Protect STEAM Education, Natural Waterways, and Youth Development

The Westchester County Board of Legislators approved several measures tonight to improve the quality of life for residents of all ages. Among them were bipartisan, unanimous votes to:

  • Extend the Westchester County Children's Museum lease by 20 years, ensuring the popular Rye institution will continue serving families through interactive STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) education. The museum, which attracted approximately 100,000 visitors in 2024, is committed to fostering creativity, critical thinking and self-confidence in young people. It also prioritizes engaging children with limited access to STEAM enrichment in their communities.

  • Approve $2.8 million to fund comprehensive evaluations of water resource recovery facilities in Blind Brook, Mamaroneck, New Rochelle, and Yonkers. These assessments will maintain the integrity of treatment plants, ultimately protecting the county's natural waterways from pollution.

  • Allocate $48,655 to support the Tarrytown/Sleepy Hollow Summer Camp's operations for six weeks this summer. The camp promotes positive youth development in children ages 3-11 through arts, sports, swimming and enrichment activities.

Chairman Vedat Gashi (D- New Castle, Ossining, Somers, Yorktown) said, “Tonight's actions reflect our dedication to improving the well-being of Westchester residents of all ages. From ensuring clean water to supporting educational and recreational opportunities for our youth, we're investing in both immediate needs and our county's future.”

Watch the full meeting HERE.