Public Meetings - Westchester County, New York

The Public Safety & Veterans Committee met on July 27, 2026, at 10:00 AM in the Committee Room, 8th Floor, Michaelian Office Building, White Plains, NY. The meeting was a joint session with the Budget & Appropriations, Legislation, and Infrastructure & Housing Committees. Legislator Cunzio chaired in place of Chair Tubiolo. Present: Legislators Cunzio, Smith, Woodson-Samuels, and Gashi; Absent: Tubiolo and Clements. The committee acted on 11 agenda items—8 property tax exemption proposals, 1 bond act, and 2 intermunicipal agreements—all by unanimous vote and referred to the Board of Legislators. The meeting adjourned at 12:35 PM. Note: The raw transcript also captures other committees' meetings held the same morning; this summary follows the Public Safety & Veterans agenda and minutes. Discussion Items Tax Exemptions — Overview Justin Adin (Assistant Chief Deputy County Attorney) and Dianne Vanadia (Associate Budget Director) explained that New York State has created optional ("opt-in") property tax exemptions, and Westchester County may choose to adopt them. The exemptions affect how the existing county tax levy is distributed within local municipalities, not the total amount levied. The effective date for the new provisions is taxable status dates occurring on or after October 1, 2026. 1. Active Duty Combat Zone Exemption (2026-323/324) This resolution sets a public hearing, and the local law adds new Chapter 476 to provide a real property tax exemption for active-duty members of the Armed Forces who served in a combat zone during the prior calendar year. The exemption applies to primary residences and is up to $20,000 or 25% of the assessed value. Legislators questioned the availability of participation data and the potential shift of tax burden to other property owners; Adin noted that there is no county-level fiscal impact and no reliable estimate of eligible service members. The items were approved unanimously. 2. Seriously Disabled Veterans Exemption (2026-325/326) This resolution and local law amend Article II of Chapter 473 to exempt property owned by veterans who are 100% permanently and totally disabled as a result of military service. The property becomes fully exempt. Discussion included statistics: Westchester County has an estimated 22,000 veterans, 13,000–14,000 veteran homeowners, and 1,200–1,500 with service-connected permanent/total disabilities; an estimated 255 parcels are affected (out of 255,000 taxable parcels, described in the transcript as 0.4%). The items were approved unanimously. 3. Surviving Spouses of Police Officers Killed in the Line of Duty (2026-312/313) This resolution and local law add new Chapter 474, granting a 50% real property tax exemption to surviving spouses of police officers killed in the line of duty. Adin clarified the definition of "police officer" under New York law, which includes county, local, state, and NYC police, as well as certain peace officers. Legislators asked for a document detailing the definition. The items were approved unanimously. 4. Surviving Spouses of Volunteer Firefighters and Ambulance Workers (2026-314/315) This resolution and local law amend existing Chapter 475 to increase the surviving-spouse exemption from 10% to 50% for spouses of volunteer firefighters and volunteer ambulance service members killed in the line of duty. The 10% exemption continues for active volunteers with two or more years of service. The items were approved unanimously. Bond Act — Correctional Facility Fire Alarm System (2026-331) The committee approved an amended bond act authorizing $7,960,000 in bonds for Capital Project BCR64 (3232) to replace the fire alarm system at the County Correctional Facility. Correction Department staff (Joseph Spano, William Fallon, Karl Vollmer) explained that a pilot installation using a pneumatic VESDA system on one pod was successful, and the remaining facility will be upgraded. They confirmed that fire watch procedures will be maintained during construction. Approved unanimously. Intermunicipal Agreements — Prisoner Transportation (2026-337/338) The committee approved acts authorizing intermunicipal agreements with the cities of Peekskill and White Plains for reimbursement of prisoner transportation costs, retroactive from January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2027. These are routine annual renewals. Both items were approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - All 11 agenda items were approved unanimously (4 ayes: Legislators Cunzio, Smith, Woodson-Samuels, Gashi; 2 absent: Tubiolo, Clements) and referred to the Board of Legislators. - Public hearing dates were set on the four tax exemption resolutions (to be determined). - The meeting adjourned at 12:35 PM.

The joint meeting of the Seniors & Youth and Budget & Appropriations committees was called to order at 10:27 AM on July 27, 2026, in the Committee Room at the Michaelian Office Building, White Plains, NY. Legislator Margaret Cunzio chaired the session in place of Chair José Alvarado. The meeting covered a wide range of items, including multiple property tax exemptions, an inter-municipal agreement for a summer basketball program, budgets for Westchester Community College, capital projects for the Ice Casino, a laboratory research facility, and various infrastructure upgrades. All votes were unanimous among those present, with some legislators absent. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes from the July 13, 2026, meeting were approved on a motion by Legislator Gashi, seconded by Legislator Puja, with all present voting in favor. Discussion Items - Items 323 & 324 – Property Tax Exemption for Active Duty Members of the Armed Forces in Combat Zones: A public hearing was held. Justin Aden (Deputy Budget Director) explained that the exemption is for prior-year active duty in a combat zone, up to $20,000 or 25% of assessed value. Legislators raised concerns about the lack of data on potential beneficiaries and the burden on other taxpayers. The measure is an opt-in from New York State, effective for taxable status dates on or after October 1, 2026. The motion carried unanimously. - Items 325 & 326 – Property Tax Exemption for Seriously Disabled Veterans: This exemption applies to veterans rated 100% permanently and totally disabled by the VA. Statistics provided: 22,000 veterans in Westchester, 13,000–14,000 veteran homeowners, 1,200–1,500 service-connected permanently disabled, representing 0.4% of the county’s 255,000 taxable parcels. The exemption makes the property fully exempt. Passed unanimously. - Items 312 & 313 – Property Tax Exemption for Surviving Spouses of Police Officers Killed in the Line of Duty: The exemption is equal to 50% of the property’s valuation. The definition of police officer follows New York State law. A request was made for a document detailing the definition. Passed unanimously. - Items 314 & 315 – Property Tax Exemption for Surviving Spouses of Volunteer Firefighters and Ambulance Service Members: This amends an existing exemption to increase it from 10% to 50% and change eligibility from unremarried to surviving spouses. The 50% exemption requires at least five years of service. Passed unanimously. - Item 345 – Westchester Community College Proposed 2026-2027 Budget: Legislator Alvarado flagged concerns about a nearly 20% tuition increase over three years, but noted WCC remains the cheapest community college in the region. The county contribution remains $6.2 million, same as last year. A multi-year plan is expected. Passed unanimously. - Item 319 – IMA with City of Mount Vernon for Summer Basketball Program: The $15,000 agreement supports a program for approximately 90 children aged 6–16, run by the Mount Vernon Department of Recreation. Legislator Barr expressed full support, noting it is open to non-Mount Vernon youth. The program runs from July 6 to August 14, 2026. Passed unanimously (Ayes: Cunzio, Puja, Gashi; Absent: Alvarado, Nolan, Tubiolo). - Items 346 & 347 – CBA and Bond for Ice Casino Improvements Phase Two: An additional $4 million was requested due to code review, changes in refrigerant specifications, and cost escalation. The project addresses the historic building’s deteriorated condition, including a closed studio rink and failing infrastructure. Bids have been received; the contractor is holding the price. The total project cost is now approximately $62 million. Passed unanimously. - Item 339 – BLR Lab Research Facility Rehabilitation and Upgrade: A $3.2 million request for design development to 60% completion. The project total is $318 million, reduced from $370 million through value engineering. The new facility will be 139,000 square feet, an 8% increase from the current building. The feasibility study projected $275 million in construction costs only. Passed unanimously. - Item 344 – County Clerk Legal Division Information Technology: $1.3 million capital project to replace the cashiering system (under $330,000) and fund a legal data rewrite. An AI phone system upgrade ($37,000 one-time, $9,000 annual recurring) will improve call handling. The cashier system dates from 2009. Passed unanimously. - Item 330 – Countywide Building Management System Upgrade: $2.525 million for design to replace the outdated Andover system (installed 1998) with a new ecostructure platform across 28 county facilities. The system controls HVAC, lighting, and other building systems. Passed unanimously. - Item 343 – New Bus Radio Data System: Additional $2.065 million for CCTV, router replacements, and farebox integration. The project is expected to be completed by Q1 2027. The bus system includes 70–80 buses with new cash payment equipment. Passed unanimously. - Item 340 – South Yonkers Trunk Sewer System Inspection and Rehab: $1 million to clean and inspect 3,300 linear feet of 60-inch pipe (two-thirds from 1930, one-third from 1995) using multi-sensor technology. No design involved; minor repairs included. Passed unanimously. - Items 341 & 342 – Building Access Control and Video Surveillance System Upgrade: Continued funding for county facilities, including Playland, 86 Main Street, and Kensico Plaza for the World Cup. The vendor is ITG Larson. Passed unanimously. - Item 31 (331) – Fire Alarm System Replacement at Jail: Funding for the remaining pods. A pneumatic system (Vesda) was tested successfully. The current system is from 1993 and parts are no longer available. Fire watch will be maintained during installation. Passed unanimously. - Items 337 & 338 – IMAs with Peekskill and White Plains for Inmate Transportation: Routine renewals for transporting inmates. Passed unanimously. - Item 329 – Infrastructure Improvements at Jail (Grinder Pump Replacement): $500,000 to replace failing grinder pumps that are original to the complex, failing weekly, and posing health and safety risks. Passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - All items were approved by voice vote with no opposition. Recorded votes for Item 319: 3 Ayes (Cunzio, Puja, Gashi), 3 Absent (Alvarado, Nolan, Tubiolo). All other items passed unanimously among those present, with absences noted for Alvarado, Nolan, and Tubiolo throughout. - The meeting adjourned at 12:40 PM after the final committee adjournments.

A joint meeting of the Westchester County Board of Legislators' committees on Legislation, Public Safety & Veterans, Budget & Appropriations, and others was held on July 27, 2026, at 10:25 AM in the Committee Room of the Michaelian Office Building. The meeting was chaired by Legislator Colin Smith (Legislation), with additional committee chairs including Legislator Margaret Cunzio (Public Safety & Veterans) and others. Key agenda items included four property tax exemption local laws for first responders, military, and veterans, as well as numerous capital project requests and inter-municipal agreements. Legislators present for votes included Smith, Barr, Cunzio, Imamura, Puja, and Gashi; Clements, Nolan, and Ulaj were absent. Discussion Items Real Property Tax Exemptions for First Responders, Military, and Veterans - Surviving Spouses of Police Officers Killed in the Line of Duty (Items 312/313): Assistant Chief Deputy County Attorney Justin Adin presented an opt-in local law granting a 50% real property tax exemption to surviving spouses of police officers who died in the line of duty. Legislators questioned the definition of 'police officer' under state law and requested documentation. The item was approved unanimously. - Tax Exemption for Surviving Spouses of Volunteer Firefighters and Ambulance Services Members (Items 314/315): This local law amends an existing exemption, increasing it from 10% to 50% for surviving spouses. Legislator Barr noted that volunteer firefighters/EMS must have been vested for at least five years. Approved unanimously. - Real Property Tax Exemption for Active Duty Members of the Armed Forces Serving in a Combat Zone (Items 323/324): This new exemption provides up to 25% of assessed value (capped at $20,000) for primary residences, applicable for the year following service in a designated combat zone. Legislators discussed the difficulty in estimating eligible individuals, low expected participation due to limited military presence in Westchester, and the annual reapplication requirement. Approved unanimously. - Real Property Tax Exemption for Seriously Disabled Veterans in the Line of Duty (Items 325/326): This exemption makes the property fully exempt for veterans rated 100% permanently and totally disabled by the VA. Deputy Budget Director Christina Rampata provided data: Westchester has an estimated 22,000 veterans, 13,000-14,000 veteran homeowners, and 1,200-1,500 with service-connected permanent disabilities—representing 0.4% of all taxable parcels. The exemption previously required home adaptations, but the new law removes that requirement. Approved unanimously. - General Discussion: Throughout the exemptions, Legislator Barr raised concerns about the cumulative burden on other taxpayers due to levy redistribution. Attorney Adin clarified there is no direct county fiscal impact; exemptions shift the tax burden within municipalities. Legislators sought information on other available opt-in exemptions not yet adopted by the county. Capital Projects and Other Business - Ice Casino Phase II Improvements (Items 346/347): Acting Commissioner Peter Tartaglia presented a request for a $4 million capital budget amendment for complete renovation of the ice casino building. Reasons included extensive code review, redesign due to EPA refrigerant changes, and cost escalation. The project has already been bid and the low bidder is holding the price. Legislator Pierce requested a breakdown of cost drivers; it was provided that MEP trades saw significant increases (e.g., plumbing 206% above estimate). The committee approved the amendment. - Lab Research Facility Rehabilitation (Item 339): Keith Hoffman (Public Works) requested $3.2 million to achieve 60% design for a new laboratory building on the Grasslands campus. The total project cost is estimated at $318 million after value engineering, down from an initial schematic estimate of $370 million. Legislator Nambiar questioned the $43 million increase over the feasibility study; it was explained that the study only covered construction costs, not total project costs (including design, moving, equipment). The committee approved. - County Clerk Legal Division Information Technology Upgrade (Item 344): County Clerk John Allen requested $1.3 million for a capital project to replace the cashiering system (in use since 2009) and rewrite legal division applications. A separate $37,000 for an AI phone system was also included. The cashiering system replacement is expected to cost under $330,000. The committee approved. - Countywide Building Management System Upgrade (Item 330): Director Robert Admon requested $2.525 million for design to replace the outdated Andover system across 28 county facilities with a modern, secure system. The upgrade will improve compatibility with newer controls and address security vulnerabilities. Approved. - Bus Radio Data System (Item 343): The Chief Information Officer requested $2.065 million in additional funding to complete the radio system project, covering CCTV installation, farebox integration, and router replacements. The project is expected to finish by Q1 2027. Approved. - South Yonkers Trunk Sewer System Inspection (Item 340): DEF Commissioner Vincent Popicky requested $1 million for cleaning and inspection of 3,300 linear feet of 60-inch pipe (portions from 1930 and 1995). No major repairs anticipated. Approved. - Building Access Control and Video Surveillance Upgrade (Items 341/342): Lennox Harris requested continued funding for expansion of security systems at county facilities, including new sites for the World Cup event. Approved. - Jail Fire Alarm System Replacement (Item 31?): Representatives from the jail requested funds to install a new Vesda pneumatic fire alarm system after a successful pilot in one pod. The current system (1993) has obsolete parts. Fire watch will be maintained during construction. Approved. - Inter-Municipal Agreements with Peekskill and White Plains (Items 337/338): Renewals for inmate transport services. Approved. - Jail Infrastructure Improvements (Item 329): $500,000 requested to replace failing grinder pumps that handle waste, a weekly maintenance issue. Approved. - Westchester Community College Budget (Item 345): The proposed 2026-2027 budget was presented. Legislator Nambiar flagged a 20% tuition increase over three years, though WCC remains the cheapest community college in the state. County contribution remains $6.2 million. Approved. - IMA for Mount Vernon Summer Basketball Program (Item 319): Legislators expressed strong support for the program serving 90 children ages 6-16. Approved. Key Outcomes - All four property tax exemption local laws and their corresponding public hearing resolutions were approved by the committees on Legislation, Public Safety & Veterans, and Budget & Appropriations, and referred to the full Board of Legislators. - All capital project requests (ice casino, lab research facility, county clerk IT, building management system, bus radio data system, sewer inspection, access control, jail fire alarm, and jail infrastructure) were approved by the respective committees. - Inter-municipal agreements and the Westchester Community College budget were approved. - Receive and file items were accepted, including an accessory dwelling unit property tax abatement proposal (item 206) and a small business/MWBE microgrant pilot program (item 207). - Minutes from July 13, 2026, and other dates were approved. - The meeting adjourned at various times; the last committee adjourned at 12:40 PM.

The meeting opened at 10:00 AM with multiple committees (Health, Budget & Appropriations, Infrastructure & Housing, Public Safety, Legislation, etc.) convening jointly to discuss a series of tax exemptions, capital projects, and operational items. The primary focus was on bond acts, inter-municipal agreements, and property tax relief measures. Discussion Items & Key Outcomes Property Tax Exemptions (Local Laws 323-326, 312-315) - The board considered several opt-in state exemptions: for active duty combat zone service members (up to $20,000 or 25% of assessed value), seriously disabled veterans (100% exemption), police officers killed in the line of duty (50% for surviving spouses), and volunteer firefighters/EMS (amended from 10% to 50% for surviving spouses). County Budget Director Justin Aden and Deputy Budget Director Diane Vanadia presented the exemptions, noting they shift the levy within municipalities without county fiscal impact. Legislators questioned the lack of data on number of eligible residents and potential burden on other taxpayers. The items passed with bipartisan support. Westchester Community College Budget (Item 345) - The college proposed its 2026-2027 budget with a discrepancy corrected between tuition and aid. Legislators flagged a 20% tuition increase over three years but noted WCC remains one of the cheapest community colleges. The budget passed, with county contribution at $6.2 million (same as prior year). Mount Vernon Summer Basketball Program IMA (Item 319) - An inter-municipal agreement with Mount Vernon for a summer basketball program serving approximately 90 kids aged 6-16. Legislators spoke in strong support, noting the program’s positive impact. The IMA passed unanimously. Ice Casino Improvements Phase II Bond Act (Items 346-347) - Acting Commissioner Peter Tartaglia and consultant Robert LePain requested a $4 million capital budget amendment to cover cost escalation, design changes (new dehumidifiers, fire alarm panel), and value engineering for the historic ice rink renovation. Legislators received detailed cost breakdowns and expressed support despite the increase. The bond act passed. Labs and Research Facility Rehab and Upgrade Bond Act (Item 2026-339) - Chief Administrator Keith Hoffman and First Deputy Commissioner Gayle Katzman presented a $3.2 million bond for 60% design of a new laboratory facility on the Grasslands campus. The project addresses failing infrastructure and consolidates operations. Value engineering reduced costs from $370M to $318M. Legislators questioned the cost overrun relative to the feasibility study but acknowledged the necessity. The bond act passed. County Clerk IT Upgrades (Item 344) - County Clerk Timothy Idoni and Deputy Clerk John Allen requested $1.3 million for a capital project to replace an outdated cashiering system (dated to 2009) and consolidate legal division databases. A separate $37,000 IT project for an AI phone system was also outlined. Legislators expressed strong support, with questions about cybersecurity and recurring costs. The item passed. Countywide Building Management System Upgrade (Item 330) - Director Robert Admont and Commissioner Hernandez requested a $2.525 million design bond to replace the obsolete Andover building management system across 28 county facilities with a modern ecostructure platform. The upgrade improves security and HVAC control. The bond passed. Bus Radio Data System (Item 343) - CIO Rajesh Sood requested $2.065 million in additional bonding for the Bee-Line bus system upgrade, including cameras, routers, and farebox integration. Legislators noted the project was anticipated to need extra funds. The item passed. South Yonkers Trunk Sewer Inspection (Item 340) - Commissioner Vincent Popicky and Environmental Project Director Jasmine Hogan asked for $1 million to inspect and clean 3,300 linear feet of 60-inch sewer pipe using advanced technologies. The contract passed. Building Access Control & Video Surveillance Upgrade (Items 341-342) - Lennox Harris presented a continuation of an existing project to expand access control and video surveillance at county facilities, including Playland and Kensico Plaza. Legislators highlighted the cost of World Cup-related security upgrades with no state reimbursement. The items passed. Fire Alarm System Replacement at Jail (Item 31) - Assistant Warden Carl Volmer and Director William Fallon requested funding to replace the pneumatic fire alarm system with an electronic one (Vesda) after a successful pilot. The current system (from 1993) is at end of life. The bond passed. Inmate Transportation IMAs (Items 337-338) - Renewals of agreements with Peekskill and White Plains for inmate transportation services. Passed as routine. Jail Infrastructure Improvement (Item 329) - $500,000 bond to replace failing grinder pumps at the jail, a health and safety issue. Funds allocated for replacement. Passed. Receive & File Items - Several items were filed for the record, including legislation on accessory dwelling unit tax abatements, a small business/MWBE microgrant pilot, and other memos. Approved. Votes - All actions were approved by voice vote or roll call with no recorded opposition except for a few abstentions noted in minutes. Committees voted separately on items within their jurisdiction. The meeting adjourned at 12:40 PM.

The Westchester County Board of Legislators' Legislation and Health committees met jointly on Monday, July 27, 2026, beginning at 1:25 PM and adjourning at 1:43 PM. Chair Smith presided; Legislators participating remotely included Smith, Puja, and (later) Cunzio. Absent: Clements and Ulaj. The committees considered a local law and accompanying public hearing resolution to establish a rebuttable presumption for possession of flavored nicotine vapor products, with amendments adding camouflage vape products, and unanimously approved minutes from July 13, 2026. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the July 13, 2026, Legislation meeting by unanimous vote (motion by Nolan, second by Imamura). Discussion Items - Law Department Assistant Chief Deputy County Attorney Justin Adin and Associate County Attorney Jason Whitehead presented revisions to Local Law Intro 2026-213 and Resolution 2026-212. The substantive amendments renamed the bill to cover "certain vapor products," adding camouflage e-cigarette/vaping products alongside flavored products, and set a rebuttable presumption triggered by possession of "four or more individual packages or packets." Minor typographical and comma corrections were also included. - Legislator Barr asked about enforcement; Adin explained the Department of Health and Board of Health enforce the law and decisions are reviewable via Article 78. He noted the presumption does not expand inspection access beyond what already exists; a future licensing or permitting system would be a separate effort requiring more research. - Legislator Williams Johnson asked how the "four or more" quantity was chosen. Adin stated it follows precedent from New York City and California, among other jurisdictions. - Legislators Smith, Imamura, Barr, Nolan, Gashi, Puja, Cunzio, and Pierce expressed support and appreciation for Williams Johnson's work. Pierce noted the Department of Health had previously indicated that a licensing scenario for vape shops is critical to achieving compliance. - Williams Johnson stated that a draft bill to create a permitting process for vape retailers has been submitted, and she hopes to continue work toward keeping vaping products away from children. - (Note: the transcript at one point refers to "the town of Westchester," but the agenda and minutes consistently identify the local law as amending Chapter 535 of the Laws of Westchester County.) Key Outcomes - Motion to amend Local Law Intro 2026-213 to include the revised language (camouflage products and the four-or-more presumption) carried unanimously in both committees: Legislation (Aye: Smith, Imamura, Barr, Nolan, Puja, Gashi) and Health (Aye: Williams Johnson, Imamura, Pierce, Gashi). - Motion to amend Resolution 2026-212 (public hearing resolution) to reflect the revised title of the local law carried unanimously in both committees by the same votes. - Final approval of both items as amended, referred to the Board of Legislators, carried unanimously in Legislation (Aye: Smith, Cunzio, Imamura, Barr, Nolan, Puja, Gashi) and Health (Aye: Williams Johnson, Imamura, Pierce, Gashi). - The committees adjourned at 1:43 PM by unanimous consent.

This joint meeting of the Budget & Appropriations, Infrastructure & Housing, Seniors & Youth, Legislation, Health, Parks & Environment, and Public Safety & Veterans committees was held on July 27, 2026, from 10:25 AM to 12:40 PM. A quorum was present (Legislators Woodson-Samuels, Holstein, Nambiar, Pierce, Williams, Gashi; absent: Tubiolo, Williams Johnson; Legislator Holstein away for some items). The committee approved 23 items, including multiple tax exemptions, bond acts, and inter-municipal agreements, and received two memos of legislation. Consent Calendar - Minutes of June 8, 2026 and June 29, 2026 were approved. - All items on the agenda were approved unanimously by voice vote with no recorded opposition. Discussion Items - Real Property Tax Exemptions (Items 1–8): Justin Adin (Assistant Chief Deputy County Attorney) presented eight opt-in tax exemptions authorized by New York State. These included exemptions for active duty members of the Armed Forces serving in a combat zone (up to $20,000 or 25% of assessed value), seriously disabled veterans (100% exemption), surviving spouses of police officers killed in the line of duty (50% exemption), and surviving spouses of volunteer firefighters and ambulance service members (50% exemption, expanding an existing 10% exemption). Legislators discussed fiscal impacts, administrative burdens on local assessors, and the lack of data on potential beneficiaries. It was noted that these exemptions shift the tax levy within municipalities, not increase the county levy. All items were signed by committee and referred to the Board of Legislators. - Westchester Community College 2026–2027 Budget (Item 9): The budget was presented with a correction to a discrepancy between student tuition and aid figures (bottom line unchanged). Legislator Nambiar expressed concern about tuition increases of nearly 20% over three years, though WCC remains the cheapest community college in the state. The county sponsor contribution remained at $6.2 million. The act was approved. - IMA – Mount Vernon Summer Basketball Program (Item 10): An inter-municipal agreement for $15,000 to support a summer basketball program for 90 youth ages 6–16 from July 6 to August 14, 2026. Legislators praised the program. Approved. - Ice Casino Improvements II (Items 11–12): Acting Parks Commissioner Peter Tartaglia explained a $4 million increase to $62.789 million total for capital project RP02A, due to code review, updated refrigerant requirements, fire alarm panel upgrades, and cost escalation. A bid has been received and held. The committee approved the capital budget amendment and amended bond act. - Labs and Research Facility Rehabilitation and Upgrade (Item 13): Chief Administrator Keith Hoffman presented a $3.2 million bond act for 60% design of a new building (estimated total project cost $318 million, reduced from $370 million through value engineering). The new facility will replace aging infrastructure and consolidate lab services. Approved. - County Clerk – Legal Division IT Upgrades (Item 14): County Clerk Thomas Roach detailed a $1.3 million bond act to replace the cashiering system (in service since 2009) and later rewrite legal applications. An RFP is pending for a system under $330,000. A separate $37,000 AI phone system upgrade (with $9,000 annual recurring cost) was also mentioned. Approved. - County-Wide Building Management System (Item 15): Robert Abbamont (DPW&T) presented a $2.525 million bond act for design to replace the outdated Andover system with a new ecostructure system across 28 county facilities, citing security vulnerabilities and compatibility issues. Approved. - New Bus Radio/Data System (Item 16): A $2.065 million bond act to cover additional costs for CCTV, router upgrades, farebox integration, and reporting software. The project is on track for Q1 2027 completion. Approved. - South Yonkers Trunk Sewer System Reconstruction (Item 17): A $1 million bond act for cleaning, inspection, and minor repairs of 3,300 linear feet of 60-inch pipe (constructed 1930 and 1995). No design needed; work will be publicly bid. Approved. - Building Access Control and Video Surveillance Upgrades (Items 18–19): Lennox Harris (Deputy CIO) presented a $1.3 million capital budget amendment and bond act (BIT45) to continue expansion of the county-wide system, including new facilities at 86 Main Street and Kensico Plaza for the World Cup event. Legislator Williams noted the state provided no reimbursement for World Cup-related costs. Approved. - Correctional Facility Fire Alarm System (Item 20): A $7.96 million amended bond act to replace the pneumatic system (installed 1993) with a new Vesda system, after successful pilot. During construction, fire watch will be maintained. Approved. - Prisoner Transportation IMAs (Items 21–22): Renewals of inter-municipal agreements with Peekskill and White Plains for prisoner transportation reimbursement, retroactive from January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2027. Approved. - Correctional Infrastructure Improvements (Item 23): A $500,000 bond act to replace grinder pumps at the jail, which are failing weekly and pose a health and safety risk. Approved. Receive & File - Memo of Legislation – Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Property Tax Abatement (Item 2026-206): Submitted by Legislator Woodson-Samuels to incentivize creation of affordable housing through ADUs. Received and filed. - Memo of Legislation – Small Business & MWBE Micro-Grant Pilot Program ($1M) (Item 2026-207): Submitted by Legislator Woodson-Samuels to support small businesses and MWBEs. Received and filed. Key Outcomes - All 23 items on the agenda were approved unanimously by the committees present and referred to the full Board of Legislators. - The two memos of legislation were received and filed, marking the first step toward potential future legislation. - No public comments were made during the meeting.

The Westchester County Board of Legislators' Budget & Appropriations Committee met on Monday, July 20, 2026, at 10:09 AM, to review the proposed Westchester Community College (WCC) budget for fiscal year 2026-2027. Chair Tyrae Woodson-Samuels presided. The committee heard a presentation from WCC President Dr. Belinda Miles and her team, followed by questions from legislators. The meeting adjourned at 10:58 AM. Discussion Items - The committee received a presentation on WCC's 2026-2027 budget from President Dr. Belinda Miles, Vice President & Dean of Administrative Services Jacqueline-Ann Clark, and other staff. - WCC serves more than 24,000 students annually, operates the largest ESL program in New York State outside New York City, and nearly 40% of its students receive need-based aid. The WCC Foundation projects $4 million in scholarships. - WCC contributes approximately $585 million annually to the regional economy and supports nearly 5,800 jobs; 80% of its graduates remain in Westchester. - WCC requested a $1 million increase in county support, raising the county contribution from $26.2 million to $27.2 million, but was informed that the county allocation would remain flat. WCC also proposed a $100 per semester tuition increase (3.62%, down from last year's 5.72%). - Legislator David Imamura expressed concern about cumulative tuition increases over the last three years (he estimated roughly 20%) and about the sustainability of drawing from WCC's fund balance ($52 million total, with an $8 million draw for development). President Miles clarified that the past two years' increases total about 9.4% and that WCC went nearly a decade without tuition increases. - Legislator Williams Johnson asked about the timeline for rebranding WCC's extension centers as advanced technology centers. President Miles stated that a community engagement process would begin in fall 2026 and that the college is exploring partnerships with employers and Purchase College. - Legislator Nancy Barr asked about collective bargaining agreements and cost drivers. WCC attributed cost pressures to salaries (82% of the budget), health care, retirement, technology vendor increases (3-8%), and energy costs (about $400,000 more this year). - WCC clarified that state aid did not decrease, but the FTE reimbursement rate has remained flat. Receive & File - Memo of Legislation 2026-206 (Accessory Dwelling Unit Property Tax Abatement) was continued to a future meeting. - Memo of Legislation 2026-207 (Small Business & MWBE Micro-Grant Pilot Program, $1M) was continued to a future meeting. Key Outcomes - The committee took no action on the WCC budget; the presentation was informational. - The receive & file items were continued, as were the minutes for June 8 and June 29, 2026. - Chair Woodson-Samuels indicated that the committee would take the necessary next steps in conjunction with the county executive's office.

The Westchester County Board of Legislators met on Monday, July 20, 2026, at 7:06 PM in the Legislative Chamber of the Michaelian Office Building, White Plains. The meeting was called to order by Chairman Vedat Gashi with a quorum present. The board approved the minutes of the June 29, 2026 regular meeting, conducted two public hearings, and adopted a consent calendar with multiple items. All votes were 14–0, with Legislators Erika Pierce, Colin Smith, and David Tubiolo absent. The meeting adjourned at 8:24 PM. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes of the June 29, 2026 regular meeting were approved unanimously. - Communications (County Executive): 18 items were received, filed, and referred to appropriate committees, including: - Resolutions to set public hearings on real property tax exemptions for active duty and disabled veterans (public hearings set for September 14, 2026 at 7:30 PM). - Bond acts totaling over $22 million for infrastructure projects: infrastructure improvements ($500,000), building management system upgrade ($2,525,000), correctional facility fire alarm system ($7,960,000), labs and research facility upgrade ($3,200,000), South Yonkers trunk sewer reconstruction ($1,000,000), building access control and video surveillance ($1,300,000), new bus radio/data system ($2,065,000), county clerk IT upgrades ($1,300,000), and Ice Casino improvements II (amended to $62,789,000). - Intermunicipal agreements (IMAs) for prisoner transportation with Peekskill and White Plains. - Acts amending the 2026 capital budget for Ice Casino improvements and building access control. - An act adopting the Westchester Community College proposed 2026–2027 budget. - Legislators’ Communications: Five items received and referred, including an IMA with Mount Vernon for a summer basketball program (up to $15,000, July 6–August 14, 2026) and four memos of legislation from Legislator Tyrae Woodson-Samuels (Brownfield Assessment, First-Gen Homebuyer Down Payment Matching, Youth Career Guarantee Pre-Apprenticeship, and Office-to-Housing Commercial Conversion Readiness). - Other Communications: Items reviewed for informational purposes: NR IDA notice of deviation, County Executive’s opposition to OMB’s proposed Uniform Guidance rewrite, and Election Commissioner Certification. Public Comments & Testimony - Probation Officer Early Retirement: Multiple speakers (Peter Tripodi, Joseph Daly, Nolaida Sanders) urged the board to adopt a 25-year retirement option for Westchester County probation officers. They argued that police and correction officers already receive this benefit, while probation officers—a predominantly female and minority workforce—do not; they noted that state law has allowed this since 1999 and that nine other counties have opted in. - Water Quality & Sewer Infrastructure: Seven speakers from the Westchester Coalition for Clean Water (Tracy Brown, Nancy Seligson, Lorraine Walsh, Josh Pearson, Faye Serafika, Carolyn McLaughlin) addressed chronic sewage pollution from the Yonkers Wastewater Treatment Plant, combined sewer overflows (CSOs), and aging collection pipes. Specific requests included: developing a CSO long-term control plan, conducting daily water quality testing after spills, improving public notification, and advancing the New Rochelle Sanitary Sewer District consolidation pilot. They noted a July 3 failure that discharged 39 million gallons of untreated sewage and closed the Hudson River for 10 days. - Playland Park Attractions: Maddie Highland (Long Island resident) urged updates to dark rides at Playland Park, specifically the Zombie Castle and Old Mill, which have not been updated since 2002. - Camouflaged Vaping Devices (Public Hearing): Molly Franco (American Lung Association/Power Against Tobacco) supported the legislation, noting that youth are drawn to inexpensive, easily accessible, and flavored products—and that Westchester has over 900 tobacco retailers, more than Orange, Rockland, and Putnam combined. - Master Plumber 51% Ownership Requirement (Public Hearing): Lewis Picani (Teamsters Local 456) and Eric Pope (Burke Energy) supported eliminating the requirement, arguing it creates a monopoly, hinders businesses, and forces unnecessary costs. Pope stated the rule has been misused by local inspectors to block HVAC companies from doing plumbing connections. Discussion Items - Local Law – Prohibit Sale of Camouflaged Vaping Devices (2026-44): Legislators Imamura and Williams Johnson presented the law as a necessary step to protect children from deceptive products designed to evade adult detection. Legislator Alvarado shared a personal story about a child’s death from vaping. The law passed 14–0 after correcting ministerial typos. - Local Law – Eliminate Master Plumber 51% Ownership Requirement (2026-295): Legislator Imamura moved adoption; the law also gives the County Executive authority to appoint the chair of the plumbing board. Consumer Protection Director Jim Maisano and the Law Department were thanked. Passed 14–0. - Appointments and Reappointments: Ten appointments/reappointments to various boards (Professional Prequalification, Veterans’ Advisory Council, Refuse Disposal District No. 1, Traffic Safety Board) were all adopted 14–0. Legislators Barr and Williams noted the qualifications of appointees. - Act – Credit Card Fee Surcharge (2026-299): Amends Act No. 8-2002 to require credit card users to pay any service fee/surcharge; the county currently spends about $140,000 on such fees. - IMA – Services to Seniors (2026-300): Authorizes IMAs with Yonkers and New Rochelle for outreach to seniors, funded with up to $40,000 in county tax dollars. - Bond Act – Tibbetts Brook Park Pool Rehabilitation (2026-301): $800,000 bond to fund design for comprehensive pool upgrades including filtration, decks, water slides, and accessibility features. Legislator Williams stressed the pool’s importance to Yonkers and all Westchester. - Westchester Community College Budget Resolutions (2026-303, 304, 305): Set a public hearing for August 3, 2026 at 10:30 AM, adopted hearing rules, and suspended Rules 9 and 11 for the hearing. - Airport Counsel Agreements (2026-306): Authorized renewal of “Of Counsel” legal services with Kaplan Kirsch and Wicks Group for airport matters, not to exceed $200,000. - Flood Mitigation – Ardsley Package (2026-316, 317, 318): Authorized $550,000 bond, amended stormwater reconnaissance plan for Saw Mill and Pocantico Rivers, and approved an IMA with the Village of Ardsley. County will fund up to 50% ($1M+). Legislator Imamura thanked partners for a year of work. Key Outcomes - Local Law 2026-44 (camouflaged vaping devices): Adopted unanimously (14–0). - Local Law 2026-295 (master plumber ownership requirement): Adopted unanimously (14–0). - All ten appointments/reappointments: Adopted unanimously (14–0). - Act 2026-299 (credit card surcharge): Adopted unanimously (14–0). - Act 2026-300 (senior services IMAs): Adopted unanimously (14–0). - Bond Act 2026-301 (Tibbetts Brook pool): Adopted unanimously (14–0). - Resolutions 2026-303, 304, 305 (WCC budget): Adopted unanimously (14–0). - Act 2026-306 (airport counsel): Adopted unanimously (14–0). - Items 2026-316, 317, 318 (Ardsley flood mitigation): Adopted unanimously (14–0). - Memorial Resolutions: Adopted unanimously; legislators honored nine deceased community members. - Next Meeting: Monday, August 3, 2026 at 10:00 AM.

The meeting was called to order at the scheduled time of 8:00 PM on July 15, 2026. However, due to technical difficulties and an apparent lack of prepared agenda items, no official business, discussions, or votes took place. The meeting consisted primarily of informal dialogue among attendees regarding equipment issues and a statistics reporting problem. Technical Difficulties and Adjournment - The meeting began with participants troubleshooting audio-visual equipment and a streaming or recording issue. A “statistics reporting issue” was mentioned, but no further details were provided. - One attendee indicated that a matter would be addressed with “Denise's office” the following day, suggesting that agenda items were postponed. - The meeting concluded without any motions, public comments, or decisions. No official minutes were produced.