Board Celebrates Irish American Heritage Month

The Westchester County Board of Legislators marked Irish American Heritage Month on Monday evening with a ceremony honoring two remarkable changemakers: Sandra Feeney-Charles, Executive Director of the Aisling Center in Yonkers and an inspirational humanitarian who worked with the international organization Concern Worldwide, and Pauline M. Galvin, Chairwoman of the Yonkers Planning Board and a driving force behind the Untermyer Performing Arts Council, Richmond Community Services, and the McLean Avenue Merchants Association.

Chairman Vedat Gashi (D–New Castle, Ossining, Somers, Yorktown), who convened the ceremony and welcomed guests, said, “We’re proud to honor two extraordinary women whose Irish heritage and decades of dedication to community embody the very best of the Irish American tradition. Sandra Feeney-Charles and Pauline Galvin represent the work ethic and compassion that have driven Irish Americans to help build Westchester into the vibrant place it is today. 
Tonight, the Board also held a productive session, approving critical investments in affordable housing in Ossining, the reconstruction of a bridge connecting Bronxville and Yonkers, and major improvements to the Bronx River Pathway. We’re proud that today’s legislative achievements reflect the same commitment to community that has guided Sandra and Pauline throughout their remarkable careers.”

Legislator David J. Tubiolo (D–Yonkers, Mount Vernon) said, “I am delighted to have the opportunity to honor my good friend Sandra Feeney-Charles, Executive Director of Aisling Center. The Aisling Center has been a centripetal force at the heart of McLean Avenue, also known as ‘The Emerald Mile,’ and that is thanks to the dedication and hard work of Sandra and her entire team. As the legislator for District 14, it has been my privilege to work with Sandra over the years as she has helped organize toy drives, food drives, free luncheons and meal delivery programs for our seniors, assistance with navigating social programs, and so much more. Congratulations to Sandra for being our honoree for Irish American Heritage Month here at the Westchester County Board of Legislators, and we thank her for all that she does for our community.”

Legislator Tyrae Woodson-Samuels (D–Mount Vernon) said, “I chose Pauline Galvin as my Irish Heritage Month honoree because she embodies the spirit of service, resilience, and community leadership that defines both Irish heritage and the best of Westchester. Her commitment to lifting others and strengthening our community has made a lasting impact that is deserving of this recognition.”

In addition, the Board approved measures to:

• Create 25 affordable rental apartments at 80 Main Street in Ossining with a $6 million investment. The apartments carry a 50-year affordability guarantee, providing long-term stability for local residents. The plan also adds 35 new parking spaces to serve tenants and the surrounding downtown. The investment helps working families, seniors, and young professionals remain in Ossining for the long term.

• Rebuild the aging Pondfield Road West Bridge over the Bronx River, which carries more than 5,500 vehicles daily between Bronxville and Yonkers. The $11.75 million project will replace the below-standard structure with a modern bridge that preserves its historic character, ensuring safe and reliable travel for decades.

• Reconstruct the Bronx River Pathway, a nearly 10-mile trail stretching from Kensico Dam Plaza to Greenacres Avenue. The $11.13 million upgrades include resurfacing the path, repairing footbridges, improving drainage and adding benches, signage, and safety features. The investment will ensure a safer, more accessible recreational space for walkers, runners, and cyclists across the County.

The meeting replay will be posted here when available.