The Westchester County Board of Legislators strengthened housing protections and public safety for residents at its meeting on Monday, August 4, 2025.  In three significant votes, the Board secured long-term affordability for more than 160 apartments in Sleepy Hollow, authorized $6.6 million in critical security upgrades at the Westchester County Department of Correction, and enhanced mutual aid agreements to support 29 local police departments during critical emergencies.

Safeguarding Housing Affordability and Maintenance

The Board approved legislation that will deliver significant improvements to 163 affordable apartments in Sleepy Hollow and extend their affordability for decades to come. The action clears the way for Foundation for Affordable Housing, Inc., a nonprofit with extensive experience managing more than 25,000 affordable units nationwide, to take ownership of the development at 100 College Avenue. The nonprofit will invest approximately $78,000 per apartment in much-needed upgrades, which will improve accessibility and enhance amenities.

Through a 50-year affordability commitment, the Board is ensuring these homes remain available to low-income families well into the future. 

Minority Leader Margaret A. Cunzio (C- North Castle, Mount Pleasant, Pleasantville, Sleepy Hollow, Harrison) said of the legislation, “Investing in capital improvements at this affordable housing complex is not just about bricks and mortar — it’s about strengthening the foundation of our community. Every family in Sleepy Hollow deserves a safe, modern, and dignified place to call home. These upgrades will ensure long-term stability for residents, protect this vital housing resource, and reaffirm our commitment to keeping Westchester a place where people can thrive.”

Legislator Shanae Williams (D- Yonkers), Chair of the Board’s Housing and Planning Committee, said, “This legislation is another important achievement in our ongoing effort to ensure Westchester residents can continue to live in the communities they call home. By preserving the affordability of 163 apartments in Sleepy Hollow and improving their conditions, we’re helping prevent displacement and making real progress towards our county’s livability and inclusivity for all.”

Legislator Jewel Williams Johnson (D- Elmsford, Greenburgh, Tarrytown, White Plains), Chair of the Board’s Budget and Appropriations Committee, said “Housing stability is the foundation of a healthy, thriving community. By extending the affordability period at 100 College Avenue for another 50 years, we are safeguarding 163 homes for working families, seniors, and neighbors who might otherwise be priced out. Streamlining future transactions while preserving strong affordability protections ensures this property remains a vital part of the Village of Sleepy Hollow’s vision for inclusive growth. This is a promise to current and future residents that they will continue to have an affordable place to call home.”

Upgrading Security Systems to Protect Corrections Officers and Detainees

The Board voted to invest $6.6 million to replace outdated security systems at the Westchester County Department of Correction in Valhalla, significantly improving safety for both correctional staff and detainees. The state-of-the-art emergency alert systems will provide real-time monitoring capabilities, faster emergency response times, more reliable communication during security rounds, continuous security coverage throughout all housing units, and immediate alerts to the Main Control Center when staff are in distress.

The upgrades will replace 25-year-old analog phone and personal body alarm systems that have become difficult to maintain due to scarce replacement parts. Full implementation is expected by the end of 2027.

Majority Whip Terry Clements (D- New Rochelle, Pelham, Pelham Manor), Chair of the Board’s Public Safety Committee, said, “I strongly support modernizing our correctional facility’s safety systems. Upgrading these tools will help officers do their jobs and will create a safer environment for both staff and facility residents.”

Bolstering Emergency Support for Local Police

The Board also agreed to allow the County of Westchester to enter into a five-year inter-municipal agreement (IMA) with local police departments to provide mutual aid and emergency response assistance. This updated agreement enables 29 participating municipalities to share police resources during emergencies that exceed their individual capabilities, events that include terrorism, natural disasters, and public health emergencies. The agreements come at no cost to municipalities and take effect immediately through July 30, 2030.

Legislator Colin D. Smith (D- Cortlandt, Peekskill, Yorktown), Chair of the Board’s Legislation Committee, said, “I am proud to stand by this legislation designed to enhance support for our local police departments by enabling assistance from County law enforcement officers during critical emergencies. This initiative promotes seamless inter-jurisdictional collaboration, ensuring that law enforcement agencies can effectively respond when incidents exceed the capacity of a single department. By fostering mutual aid agreements, this legislation strengthens our collective ability to address emergent threats, including public health crises and acts of terrorism, with greater efficiency and coordination.”

Watch the full meeting HERE.