Public Meetings - Westchester County, New York

On Wednesday, July 8, 2026, from 1:11 to 1:55 p.m., the Westchester County Board of Legislators' Small Business Committee met jointly with the Public Safety & Veterans Committee in Committee Room 800 of the Michaelian Office Building (148 Martine Avenue, White Plains, NY) and over WebEx. Chair James Nolan (Small Business) called the meeting to order at 1:11 p.m. (the agenda had listed a 1:00 p.m. start); the agenda contained one item, a discussion on retail crime, with invited guests Douglas Horsting of Metrorca and Mike Burke of CVS. A third participant, named Peter Stanga in the transcript, spoke from the perspective of Ulta Beauty's stores in Hartsdale, Scarsdale, and Dobbs Ferry. Minutes list Legislators Tubiolo, Cunzio (remote), Williams (remote), and Holstein (remote) as participating, with Nambiar, Smith, and Woodson-Samuels absent; the transcript also captures questions from a remote legislator whose name is garbled as 'Woodsida Gundeal' (a possible match for Woodson-Samuels). The meeting was discussion-only, with no formal votes. Discussion on Retail Crime: Scale, Methods, and Impact - Horsting described shoplifting today as organized retail crime, a multi-billion-dollar industry that is closing stores; he cited Rite Aid, his former employer, which has gone bankrupt, and noted that one person in the resale business had made enough money to buy a helicopter. Burke recalled that Rite Aid recently drew roughly $25 million from reserves to cover its loss projections. - Burke said large percentages of stolen merchandise are sold on Amazon, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace, often passing as legitimate. The supply chain is tiered: people with addictions or unstable housing get 'shopping lists,' steal items, and sell to a middleman; goods are then cleaned (store labels removed) in warehouses before being resold online, to local bodegas, or even back to chain retailers. - On consumer safety, the chair recalled problems with stolen baby formula resold on secondary markets after being kept in car trunks or on a person, making it unsanitary and unsafe; guests agreed. - Burke described traveling 'crews' that hit multiple stores in one trip, such as a crew that hit seven CVS stores in the region, and a South American crew arrested in Connecticut right after Christmas that had been hitting Long Island, Westchester, and Connecticut. - Case examples: a U-Haul truck followed from Orlando, Florida, to Queens, NY, was impounded with $150,000 of stolen merchandise from a seven-day trip; and a Manhattan 'fence' shut down during the past year yielded $3 million in recovered goods, with high turnover suggesting it held only about a month of inventory. - Burke said offenders are in and out of stores in one to three minutes, while a 911 call takes about a minute plus response time, so police often arrive after suspects are gone. He described employees being threatened ('I'll be back'), and crews using blowtorches to open locked cases while customers, including children, are in the store. Coordination Gaps and Proposed Solutions - Horsting recommended that Westchester County create a retail-theft task force modeled on New York City's, bringing major retailers, the District Attorney's office, county police, and elected officials to the same table; he noted Metrorca (and a group he called 'Metro Bridge the Gap') serves as a liaison among retailers, district attorneys, and elected officials in the city. - Burke advocated for a centralized retail liaison in the District Attorney's office, as in Nassau and Suffolk counties, and for regular communication – such as quarterly meetings or calls like the ones retailers hold twice a week with the Manhattan DA's office – so jurisdictions no longer work in isolation (he cited an offender arrested first in Hastings and later in Dobbs Ferry without cross-communication). A centralized contact would let a detective quickly ask multiple retailers, 'Do you have anything on this guy?' - The Ulta Beauty representative expressed full support for trespass notices and prosecution of repeat offenders, saying recidivism drops once offenders know they risk a felony burglary charge. He said offenders typically hit all three Ulta stores in Hartsdale, Scarsdale, and Dobbs Ferry when they target one, and that his team works with Dobbs Ferry and Greenburgh police, sharing intel and hotlisting plates. He called current investigations 'siloed' and advocated more globalized prosecution; he cited a New Jersey case where a person who caused his company over $100,000 in losses received no jail time after a drug-court disposition. - On bail reform, Burke said the state has modified the law three times but he has not seen effective change; judges still exercise discretion, as when a suspect stole only $50. - Burke cited success with license-plate-reader (LPR) alerts through the county's real-time crime center, including a crew first flagged in New Rochelle and later arrested in Connecticut after hitting Long Island, Westchester, and Connecticut. - Chair Nolan noted the retailers have been advocating at the state level, including a meeting with State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins where a Macy's representative showed video of retail theft; Horsting added that state police are working on a retail initiative in Queens started by Governor Hochul. Legislator Q&A and Committee Deliberation - Legislator Williams, who noted he represents the Getty Square area of Yonkers, asked whether thieves are stealing from Westchester-based businesses and selling elsewhere, or bringing stolen goods into Westchester. Burke replied that Westchester stores are hit and goods are often transported to larger fences in Queens and Long Island, while some stolen product is resold locally, including at bodegas; he described a Yonkers operation in which individuals were followed from a Walgreens to four locations, including a store on Palisade Avenue that purchased stolen goods. - A remote legislator (transcribed as 'Woodsida Gundeal') asked whether the retailers work with the district attorney's General Investigations (GI) unit and how municipalities connect with it, and asked about the status of bond-funded technology systems for sharing arrest and public-safety information among municipalities and county police. Horsting said the retailers were not aware of the GI unit, though he has attended coordination meetings at the police academy; the legislator noted that Chief Luciano has connected with the GI unit and suggested reaching out to him for a connection. - The Public Safety & Veterans chair said investigations, DA charging decisions, and court outcomes form a 'triangular' system, and that all parties need to be on the same page; he said the committees would benefit from bringing everyone to the table. Key Outcomes - No motions, votes, or resolutions were taken; the meeting was informational. - Chair Nolan said the committees will follow up with the Department of Public Safety, including the General Investigations division mentioned by a legislator, and will explore creating a Westchester County retail-theft task force and other options raised by the guests. - Future meetings are anticipated, including a session with county police participating.

The Parks & Environment Committee met on July 7, 2026, to discuss ongoing projects at Playland and Merestead. Acting Commissioner Peter Tartaglia and Director of Park Planning Rob Lopane provided updates. The committee also addressed other park-related matters including a proposed pool study at Croton Point Park, invasive species management, and lifeguard staffing. Discussion Items Playland Update - Acting Commissioner Tartaglia reported that Playland is in its second season under county operation. 100% of Kiddieland rides are operational, and approximately 70–75% of major rides are operational, with that number expected to be much higher by the end of July. A new pirate-ship-type ride (previously purchased but not installed by the prior operator) is being erected and will open this month. The Dragon Coaster is open. Water rides are not yet open but will open within the next week due to late parts and needed electronics repairs. - Food service: The county has a five-year contract with Culinar; temporary food trailers (larger than food trucks) are in place. All food areas will be filled by next season. A barbecue restaurant is planned for the fountain plaza area next year. - Playland is open Wednesdays through Sundays (hours vary by day). Camp groups and school groups are returning. The park had to cancel July 4 fireworks due to a severe storm, but the amusement park, beach, and pool are open. - Chair Pierce and Legislator Williams expressed appreciation for the progress and Tartaglia’s dedication. Merestead Farmhouse Project - The farmhouse project is in two phases. Phase 1 (envelope: roofing, siding, foundations, minor interior work) is approximately 30% complete. Unforeseen conditions were uncovered: significant deterioration of the original stone foundation, extensive deterioration of structural sill plates requiring replacement, wood rot in wall framing of a bump-out (future bathroom location), and more mold damage than initially assessed. The chimney contains asbestos; basement asbestos has already been remediated. Tartaglia stated that when they return for Phase 2, they will likely ask for additional funding to finish elements they could not complete in Phase 1. - Phase 2 (interior design) is 90% complete. Design of the water supply well and sewer disposal is in early stages. Completion of interior design (including water infrastructure) is expected within six months, with a construction bond request anticipated in February 2027. - The barn (historic Dutch barn) also needs work; DPW is designing a roof repair for a barn that had a failure. - Legislator Williams expressed hope that the barn can be addressed before it deteriorates further. Other Business Pool Study at Croton Point Park (Legislator Ulaj) - Legislator Ulaj requested a study for a pool at Croton Point Park. Tartaglia confirmed that a study for the pool and improvements to the cricket pitch will be included in a design bond for feasibility assessments. Invasive Species Management at the Capped Landfill (Legislator Ulaj) - Legislator Ulaj expressed concern about weeds and invasives threatening native grasses and the bird sanctuary at the capped landfill. Lopane stated that management measures (e.g., mowing at certain times) are discussed with the conservation division and the Department of Environmental Facilities. Legislator Ulaj noted that $100,000 was previously included in the capital plan for this work. Chair Pierce raised the possibility of prescribed burns (as done at Ward Pound Ridge), but Tartaglia said expert consultation is needed. - Other areas with invasive species (e.g., the slope by the former brick factory) are also being considered for management. Lifeguard Staffing (Legislator Williams Johnson) - Legislator Williams Johnson asked if lifeguard staffing was an issue this year. Tartaglia reported that staffing is sufficient, with a good abundance of lifeguards. Seasonal turnover in late August is normal, and the county recruits year-round. The heat wave over July 4 weekend was challenging but did not require closing any sections due to lack of lifeguards. The program allowing 15-year-olds to start training has helped build a pipeline. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken. The committee received updates and discussed next steps. - Tartaglia committed to including the Croton Point Park pool and cricket pitch study in a future design bond. - The committee will monitor Merestead Phase 1 completion and prepare for Phase 2 bond request in February 2027. - The committee will follow up with conservation and DEF on invasive species management and potential prescribed burns. - The meeting adjourned at 2:52 PM.

The joint committee of the Westchester County Board of Legislators (Committees on Legislation and Health) convened on Monday, June 29, 2026, at 1:07 PM in the Michaelian Office Building, White Plains. Legislators participated in person and remotely. The meeting adjourned at 2:29 PM. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the June 1, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Prohibition of Camouflaged Vaping Devices (RES-2026-59 & LL Intro-2026-44): Health Department and Law Department staff presented the legislation. A technical amendment was made to add “as medical marijuana” to the definition of vapor product. Legislator Cunzio raised concerns about enforcement, noting that the law prohibits sale/transfer but not possession, and questioned the effectiveness against internet sales. Health Department representatives stated they have not seen such devices in shops but believe minors obtain them online. The legislation will allow the Health Department to conduct inspections and stings using minors. The resolution and local law were approved unanimously by both committees and referred to the full Board of Legislators. - Flavored Nicotine Vapor Products (Items 2026-212 & 2026-213): This legislation establishes a rebuttable presumption that possession of four or more flavored vapor products indicates intent to sell. Discussion focused on defining “packets” versus “products” to align with state law and avoid ambiguity. Legislator Williams Johnson requested inclusion of camouflage vape devices and explicit authority for Health Department staff to inspect storage areas. Law Department advised that storage inspection authority raises broader legal issues and cannot be added to this law; they recommended an executive session to discuss legal advice. The committee went into executive session from 1:34 PM to 1:57 PM. After returning, the items were continued to allow for drafting of revised language addressing camouflage vape products and clarifying the “packets/products” definition. - Eliminating the Master Plumber 51% Business Ownership Requirement (RES-2026-62 & LL Intro-2026-295): Law Department explained the rationale: a 2003 Rockland County court decision invalidated a similar ownership requirement, and the current rule has been inconsistently enforced. The proposed law removes the 51% ownership rule but retains the requirement that work be performed under a licensed master plumber. It also changes the plumbing board chair selection from election by members to appointment by the County Executive. Legislator Cunzio questioned the change in chair selection and requested input from Jim Maisano (Consumer Protection Director), who was unavailable. Legislator Imamura asked about litigation risk; no notices of claim have been received. The committee voted to advance the public hearing resolution (RES-2026-62) and continued the local law (LL Intro-2026-295) to allow for further information from the administration. Key Outcomes - Camouflaged Vaping Devices: Resolution and local law approved and referred to the full Board of Legislators. (Vote: 6-0, with 2 absent) - Flavored Nicotine Vapor Products: Both items continued; committee to receive revised language for the next meeting. - Master Plumber Ownership Requirement: Public hearing resolution passed; local law continued pending further input from the County Executive’s office and the Plumbing Board. - Receive & File: Croton-on-Hudson’s 2026 legislative priorities were received and filed. The 2026 Westchester County Animal Abuse Registry was tabled for further discussion at the request of Legislator Cunzio.

The meeting was called to order at 10:15 AM and adjourned at 11:15 AM. A quorum was present. The committees jointly considered several items. The agenda provided covers only the Infrastructure & Housing portion; the transcript includes additional discussions from other committees not reflected in the agenda or minutes. Discussion Items 1. Renovation of Public Safety Facility in Hawthorne (Bond Act 2026-289) - Captain Frank Donovan (Department of Public Safety) detailed deficiencies in the 1953-built headquarters: leaking roofs, lack of elevator (ADA non-compliance), aging HVAC, inadequate plumbing, small booking rooms, and outdoor impound storage. The $375,000 bond act funds a second-phase planning study (approx. 9 months) to develop low-, medium-, and high-cost options for renovation or replacement. The study will also evaluate whether a planned impound vehicle building (Capital Project 30) is needed. - Legislators asked about total project cost (to be determined by study) and immediate health/safety concerns (band-aid repairs preferred pending study). - Vote: Unanimous (4-0) to sign and refer to Board of Legislators. 2. Radio System Replacement – Environmental Resolution (2026-277) and Amended & Restated Bond Act (2026-278) - Adam Epstein (IT) and Rachel Noe (Law) presented. The project replaces the county’s public safety radio system for first responders, transit, and hospitals. The amended scope adds a site at Montrose Station Road in Blue Mountain Reservation after the county could not obtain property rights at the Montrose VA Hospital. No additional bonding is needed; total remains $32,018,183. Tree removal will be mitigated with a 2:1 replanting ratio. - Peter Tartaglia (Parks) confirmed coordination with the Parks Board and noted precedent for towers in three other parks. Completion is targeted for November 2027, contingent on contract amendments. - Legislators inquired about timeline and whether private cell service could be added – it cannot under current park alienation rules. - Vote: Both items approved unanimously (4-0) and referred to full Board. 3. Local Law on County Code Enforcement (Unlisted in Agenda) - Note: This discussion appears in the transcript but is not on the provided Infrastructure & Housing agenda or minutes; it likely occurred under Budget & Appropriations. - Commissioner Greechan, Jason Whitehead, and David Barbuti presented a proposed amendment to formalize the county’s authority to enforce the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code on county-owned properties and charge fees. Currently enforcement is informal. The law would create a formal program with fee authority, subject to future board approval. - Legislators raised liability concerns (e.g., Grasslands hospital access) and questioned fee-setting process. The item was held for further discussion, with a suggestion to model fee authority after other county practices and possibly require board approval. 4. Gift Acceptance – Accessible Hayride Wagons (Unlisted in Agenda) - Note: Also present in transcript but not in provided agenda/minutes; likely under a different committee. - Commissioner Tartaglia presented a donation from Friends of Muscoot Farm: two accessible hayride wagons with wheelchair ramps and three new sets of steps for existing wagons. The donation is valued at an unspecified amount. Legislator Pierce shared a story of a wheelchair-bound child who could now ride. - Vote: Unanimous (4-0) to receive and file. Receive & File Items (from Infrastructure & Housing Agenda) Peekskill Hollow Sewer District Extension (2026-36) - A resolution from Town of Somers to extend the sewer district to include North Edge Realty Corp. area. Received and filed unanimously. Memos of Legislation (Continued) - Three memos from Legislator Tyrae Woodson-Samuels were presented but not voted on; they were continued (held) for further review: 1. Property Record Notification & Deed Theft Prevention Law (2026-204) – Establish a county-operated notification system with the County Clerk to alert homeowners when documents are recorded against their property. 2. Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Property Tax Abatement (2026-206) – Incentivize creation of code-compliant ADUs to expand affordable housing. 3. Public Safety Nuisance & Illegal Housing Enforcement Law (2026-205) – Strengthen enforcement tools against illegal housing, chronic nuisance properties, and zombie homes. Key Outcomes - Public Safety Facility bond act (2026-289): Approved and referred to full Board. - Radio System Replacement environmental resolution (2026-277) and amended bond act (2026-278): Approved and referred. - Local law on code enforcement: Held for further discussion on fees and liability. - Gift acceptance: Received and filed. - Three memos of legislation: Continued without action. - Minutes approval: Nine sets of minutes from previous meetings approved unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 11:15 AM.

The meeting was convened at 10:18 AM and adjourned at 11:15 AM. Multiple committees met jointly to discuss a variety of items including ethics counsel retention, public safety facility renovation, county code enforcement authority, radio system replacement, and a gift acceptance. All votes were unanimous unless noted. Discussion Items - Retention of Stephen Leventhal as Special Counsel for Board of Ethics (ACT-2026-139): County Attorney John Nonna and Assistant Chief Deputy County Attorney Justin Adin presented a three-year contract for $9,000 to retain Stephen Leventhal as independent consultant and special counsel for the Board of Ethics. Chair Imamura praised Leventhal as a leading municipal ethics attorney. The item was approved unanimously. - Bond Act for Renovation of Public Safety Facility in Hawthorne: Captain Frank Donovan of the Department of Public Safety described building deficiencies including leaking roofs, lack of ADA compliance, inadequate HVAC and plumbing, and small prisoner holding cells. The study will explore renovation vs. new construction and provide three cost options over six months. The bond act was approved unanimously. - Local Law for County Code Enforcement on County Properties (Items 275 and 276): Commissioner Hugo and Deputy Commissioner Whitehead presented an amendment to formalize code enforcement authority for county-owned buildings, including fee collection. Legislators discussed jurisdiction, fee structure, and potential liability (e.g., Grasslands Hospital). The item was held for further review to align fee authority with legislative approval and to address liability concerns. - Radio System Replacement for Public Safety (BIT 32): Presenters including Rachel and Peter Tartaglia (Parks) detailed an amendment to bond act 262-2025 to construct a new radio tower at Montreal Station Road in Blue Mountain Reservation. The site is needed to complete Stage 2 coverage for first responders. Tree removal (2:1 replacement ratio) and park purpose were discussed. Legislators raised questions about adding public cellular service, but noted state restrictions. The item was approved unanimously. - Gift Acceptance from Friends of Muscoot Farm: Commissioner announced a donation of two accessible hayride wagons and three new steps for hay wagons, enhancing accessibility. A legislator shared a story of a wheelchair-bound child who could now enjoy a hayride. The gift was accepted unanimously. - Introduced Legislation (Items 204, 206, 207): Legislator introduced three items: property record notification/deed theft prevention, accessory dwelling unit property tax abatement, and a small business/MWBE microgrant pilot program. These were not voted on as receive and file; they were held for future committee work. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approvals: Retention of Stephen Leventhal, bond act for Hawthorne facility, radio system replacement bond amendment, gift acceptance, and minutes approval. - Held for further review: County code enforcement local law (Items 275/276) pending resolution of fee structure and liability questions. - Introduced legislation deferred: Three items introduced but not advanced; placed on hold for future discussion. - Adjournment: All committees adjourned at 11:15 AM.

A joint meeting of the Public Safety & Veterans and Budget & Appropriations committees, chaired by Legislator David Tubiolo, was held on Monday, June 29, 2026, beginning at 10:21 AM and adjourning at 11:15 AM. The committee considered a bond act for renovation of the public safety facility in Hawthorne, a local law and public hearing on fire prevention code enforcement, a radio system replacement project, and a gift acceptance for accessible hay wagons at Muscoot Farm. Legislators present included Tubiolo, Clements (remote), Cunzio, Smith, Woodson-Samuels, and others. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: Nine sets of minutes from meetings on February 9, February 17, February 25, March 24, April 13, April 27, May 18 (two sessions), and May 26, 2026 were approved unanimously. Discussion Items 1. Bond Act – Renovation of Public Safety Facility in Hawthorne (2026-289) - Captain Frank Donovan (Department of Public Safety) presented. The building, constructed in 1953 with a 1986 addition, has leaking roofs, lack of an elevator (non-ADA compliant), failing HVAC, inadequate plumbing, undersized prisoner booking rooms and holding cells, and a need for indoor impound storage. The bond act authorizes $375,000 for a second-phase planning and design study to produce three cost options (low, medium, high) over an estimated six months. No immediate health and safety risks were identified, but rooftop HVAC units are beyond design life and parts are difficult to obtain. The study will also evaluate whether a separate impound facility project can be avoided by reclaiming a maintenance garage after a centralized DPW facility is built. The committee voted (4 ayes, 1 absent) to approve and refer the bond act to the Board of Legislators. 2. Public Hearing and Local Law on Administration and Enforcement of NYS Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code (2026-275 and 2026-276) - Commissioner Hugh Greechan, Deputy Commissioner Hernane De Almeida, Director of Operations David Barbuti (DPW&T), and Associate County Attorney Jason Whitehead presented. The local law formalizes county code enforcement on county-owned properties, establishing a consistent program with fee authority. Currently, enforcement is done ad hoc by municipalities or the county depending on custody. The new law would allow the county to charge fees commensurate with local municipalities for plan review and inspections. Extensive discussion covered jurisdiction over leased properties, liability concerns (e.g., Westchester Medical Center’s fire access issues), whether fees require legislative approval, and the lack of formal certificates of occupancy for county buildings. Legislators Johnson and Cunzio raised questions about fee-setting authority and liability. The committee decided to continue both the public hearing resolution and the local law for further refinement, particularly regarding fee structure. 3. Radio System Replacement – Montrose Station Road Site (Agenda Items 5 & 6) - Rachel Zoe (Law Department) and Adam Epstein (IT) presented an amendment to Bond Act 262-2025 for the BIT 32 radio system replacement. The project expands public safety radio coverage for first responders, DPW, Bee-Line, and hospitals. The amendment authorizes construction of a new site in Blue Mountain Reservation after the previously planned Montrose VA site could not be acquired. The site will provide guaranteed on-street portable coverage, benefiting fire, EMS, and police responses in the park. Parks Department representative Peter Tartaglia noted the site is sited away from trails and will require tree removal with a 2:1 replacement ratio; the Parks Board approved. Project completion is targeted for November 2027, contingent on contract amendment execution. Legislator Pierce asked about adding cellular service for public use, but Tartaglia explained that state law prohibits such use on county parkland without special approval. The committee voted to approve and refer the amendment. 4. Receive and File – Gift Acceptance from Friends of Muscoot Farm (Item 279) - Commissioner Tartaglia presented the donation of two accessible hayride wagons (equipped for wheelchairs) and three sets of steps for existing hay wagons. The gift enhances inclusivity at the destination farm. A story was shared of a family whose wheelchair-bound child could participate in a hayride for the first time. The item was unanimously approved. Key Outcomes - Bond Act 2026-289 approved (4-0-1) and referred to the full Board of Legislators. - Public Hearing 2026-275 and Local Law 2026-276 were continued for further discussion and refinement of fee authority. - Radio system replacement amendment approved and referred. - Gift acceptance from Friends of Muscoot Farm approved. - Three additional items introduced by a legislator (property record notification/deed theft prevention, accessory dwelling unit tax abatement, and small business/MWBE microgrant pilot) were held for later discussion, not received and filed. - A separate receive and file for extension of the PCL Hollow Sewer District was approved. - Meeting adjourned at 11:15 AM.

Meeting Date: June 29, 2026 Time: 10:17 AM – 11:15 AM Location: Michaelian Office Building, White Plains, NY (hybrid with remote participation) This meeting of the Westchester County Board of Legislators’ Budget & Appropriations Committee, chaired by Legislator Tyrae Woodson-Samuels, considered several fiscal and policy items. The committee approved contracts, bond acts, and a gift acceptance, while continuing discussions on code enforcement legislation and deferring action on three memos of legislation. All votes were unanimous where taken. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: Nine sets of minutes (Feb 17, Feb 25, Mar 24, Apr 13, Apr 27, May 18, May 26, and two others) were approved unanimously. Discussion Items 1. ACT-2026-139: Agreement with Stephen Leventhal as Special Counsel for Board of Ethics - Presenter: County Attorney John Nonna and Assistant Chief Deputy County Attorney Justin Adin. - Description: A three-year contract (August 1 start) for up to $9,000 to retain Stephen Leventhal as independent special counsel for the Board of Ethics. Leventhal has served in this role since approximately 2010. - Outcome: Approved unanimously and referred to the full Board of Legislators. 2. ACT-2026-138: Bond Act – Renovation of Public Safety Facility in Hawthorne (BPS15-3161) - Presenter: Capt. Frank Donovan, Department of Public Safety. - Description: A planning and design study (Phase 2) for renovating the Hawthorne headquarters, built in 1953 with a 1986 addition. Issues include leaking roofs, lack of ADA compliance, inadequate HVAC, plumbing, and prisoner booking areas. The study will evaluate low-, middle-, and high-cost options (including total renovation vs. new construction) and consider repurposing a maintenance garage for impounded vehicle storage. Expected timeline: 6 months. No immediate health/safety concerns, but HVAC units are beyond design life and will be bandaged until study results. - Outcome: Approved unanimously and referred to the full Board. 3. RES-2026-275 & LOCAL LAW-2026-276: Administration and Enforcement of NYS Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code - Presenters: DPW&T Commissioner Hugh Greechan, Deputy Commissioner Hernane De Almeida, Director of Operations David Barbuti, and Associate County Attorney Jason Whitehead. - Description: These items would formally codify the county’s authority to enforce the uniform code on county-owned properties and create a fee structure. The county has historically performed code enforcement informally; this law would establish a consistent program, including plan review, inspections, and issuance of certificates of occupancy. The legislation also includes authority for the Commissioner to set fees, which would be comparable to municipal fees. Discussion centered on jurisdiction (custody of property), fiscal impact (future staff needs), and liability concerns (e.g., hospital fire access). Legislator Williams Johnson suggested revisiting the fee structure to ensure legislative oversight. The items were continued to a future meeting for further work on fee provisions. 4. RES-2026-60 & ACT-2026-137: Radio System Replacement (BIT32) – Environmental Review and Amended Bond Act - Presenter: Program Coordinator Adam Epstein (IT) and Acting Parks Commissioner Peter Tartaglia. - Description: This project replaces and expands the county’s public safety radio communication system (for DES, DPS, DPW Bee-Line, first responders, hospitals). Stage 1 (equipment replacement) is complete. Stage 2 builds new structures for guaranteed on-street portable coverage. The current legislation authorizes construction of the Montrose Station Road site in Blue Mountain Reservation (a 1,500+ acre regional park) as an alternative to the previously authorized Montrose VA site (which could not be obtained). The site will serve a park purpose by providing communication for park rangers, DPS patrols, and fire/EMS responses. Tree removal will be mitigated with a 2:1 replacement ratio. The vendor Motorola anticipates completion by November 30, 2027, contingent on contract amendment execution. - Discussion: Legislator Tubiolo asked about adding private cell service to the tower; Acting Commissioner Tartaglia explained that county parkland cannot be used for commercial cellular towers without state approval for parkland alienation. Legislator Pierce noted that other counties (Nassau, Suffolk) generate revenue from such arrangements, but he acknowledged the legal constraints. No further action was taken on that point. - Outcome: Both items approved unanimously and referred to the full Board. 5. COMM-2026-279: Gift Acceptance – The Friends of Muscoot, Inc. - Presenter: Acting Parks Commissioner Peter Tartaglia. - Description: The Friends of Muscoot donated two accessible hayride wagons (with wheelchair ramps) and three sets of steps for existing wagons. The wagons will be added to the county fleet. This enhances accessibility at Muscoot Farm, a destination park. Legislator Cunzio shared a family’s positive feedback about a wheelchair-bound child being able to enjoy a hayride. - Outcome: Approved unanimously and referred to the full Board. 6. Memos of Legislation (Continued) - Presenter: Chair Tyrae Woodson-Samuels. - Items: - 2026-204: Property Record Notification & Deed Theft Prevention Law (working with County Clerk Tom Rose). - 2026-206: Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Property Tax Abatement (working with Director of Taxation Vic Mallison). - 2026-207: Small Business & MWBE Micro-Grant Pilot Program ($1M). - Discussion: Chair Woodson-Samuels noted these are priorities but will require further collaboration. On the suggestion of colleagues, the items were continued (not voted on as Receive & File) to allow for more development. Key Outcomes - Approved (all unanimous): - ACT-2026-139 (Ethics special counsel contract) - ACT-2026-138 (Public Safety Facility renovation study bond act) - RES-2026-60 (Environmental review for radio system site) - ACT-2026-137 (Amended bond act for radio system) - COMM-2026-279 (Gift acceptance from Friends of Muscoot) - Minutes approval (9 sets) - Receive & File: Reports on extension of PCL Hollow Sewer District (additional item after main agenda) - Continued (no vote): - RES-2026-275 & LOCAL LAW-2026-276 (Fire Prevention and Building Code enforcement) – to be revised on fee structure and legislative oversight. - 2026-204, 2026-206, 2026-207 (Memos of Legislation) – held for further development. - Adjournment: 11:15 AM.

The Westchester County Board of Legislators convened its regular meeting at 7:02 PM on Monday, June 29, 2026, in the Legislative Chamber of the Michaelian Office Building in White Plains, with Chairman Vedat Gashi presiding. Fifteen members were present, two absent, and one remote. The meeting lasted approximately 28 minutes and included a public comment session, action on unfinished business, approval of multiple bond acts and resolutions, and memorial resolutions. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes of the June 15, 2026 regular meeting were approved unanimously on a motion by Majority Leader Holstein. - Communications Referrals: All items under Communications from the County Executive, County Attorney, Legislators, and Others were received, filed, and referred to the appropriate committees unanimously. These included: - Act to amend credit card fee authorization (Act No. 8-2002) – referred to Budget & Appropriations. - Act authorizing inter-municipal agreements with Yonkers and New Rochelle for senior services – referred to Budget & Appropriations and Seniors & Youth. - Bond Act for Tibbetts Brook Park Pool Rehabilitation ($800,000) – referred to Budget & Appropriations, Infrastructure & Housing, and Parks & Environment. - Resolutions and Local Laws for property tax exemptions for surviving spouses of police officers killed in line of duty and volunteer firefighters/ambulance members – referred to Legislation, Public Safety & Veterans, and Budget & Appropriations. - Bond Act for flood mitigation on Powderhorn Road, Ardsley ($550,000) – referred to Budget & Appropriations and Infrastructure & Housing. - Act to amend Stormwater Reconnaissance Plan – referred to Budget & Appropriations and Infrastructure & Housing. - Act authorizing inter-municipal agreement with Ardsley for flood mitigation – referred to Budget & Appropriations and Infrastructure & Housing. - Act authorizing renewal of "Of Counsel" legal services for airport matters (Kaplan Kirsch and Wicks Group) up to $200,000 – referred to Budget & Appropriations and Litigation. - Memo of Legislation to establish a Westchester County Office of Fatherhood and Family Engagement Advisory Council – referred to Legislation and Appointments. - Request from Village of Briarcliff Manor to add a parcel to Saw Mill Sewer District – referred to Infrastructure & Housing. - Notices & Petitions: Two amended PILOT/tax agreements (277 North Avenue, New Rochelle; 599 Ridge Hill Boulevard, Yonkers) were reviewed for informational purposes only. Public Comments & Testimony Three members of the public spoke during the public comment period: - Probation Association Representative (first speaker): Expressed concern regarding Local Law 2026-26, which repeals the County Attorney’s authority to prosecute violations of probation (VOP). The speaker acknowledged the county attorney's resource limitations but argued that eliminating the authorization without a clear alternative plan risks public safety. They urged the Board to identify who will prosecute VOP cases if the District Attorney does not resume handling them, emphasizing that VOP proceedings are critical for accountability and intervention. - Dawn Myerski (child care center director): Urged immediate release of supplemental Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) funding, warning that without subsidies, centers may turn away children, leading to unsupervised children and potential drownings. She noted that Westchester Works plans to offer only $400 per month, which is insufficient. She requested that children with timely applications be reimbursed from their start dates. - Howard Milbert (executive director of Osman and Children's Center, co-president of Early Childhood Directors Association): Stated that Westchester can access over $14 million in supplemental CCAP funding for services before October 1, 2026. He explained that if the county claims at least $7 million (50%), it remains eligible for similar supplemental funding in fiscal year 2027. He highlighted that Westchester’s base CCAP allocation will increase to $92.98 million in October 2026 (a 43% rise from $65.1 million), making immediate use of supplemental funds critical for maximizing federal resources. Discussion Items - Unfinished Business – Local Law Repealing VOP Authorization (LL 4-2026): Legislator Colin Smith presented the local law, which repeals the 2003 authorization that allowed the County Attorney to present VOP proceedings in criminal court. He explained that the District Attorney’s office had resumed handling these matters, and the repeal simply removes the outdated authorization, allowing the county attorney to focus on civil legal work. Legislator David Tubiolo concurred. The motion passed with a vote of 12 in favor and 3 opposed (Legislators Nolan, Tubiolo, and Woodson-Samuels voted no). Key Outcomes - Local Law 4-2026 (Repealing VOP Authorization) – Adopted (12-3). - Public Hearing Set – Camouflaged Vaping Devices: A resolution to set a public hearing on July 20, 2026 at 7:30 PM for Local Law prohibiting sale of camouflaged vaping devices (LL 2026-44) – Adopted unanimously (15-0). - Environmental Resolution – Radio System Replacement (BIT32): Determined no significant adverse environmental impact – Adopted unanimously (15-0). - Bond Act – Radio System Replacement (BIT32): Authorized issuance of $32,018,183 in bonds for the radio system replacement project, amended and restated from Bond Act 263-2025 – Adopted unanimously (15-0). - Bond Act – Renovation of Public Safety Facility in Hawthorne (BPS15): Authorized $375,000 in bonds for planning and design, addressing leaks, HVAC, and plumbing issues – Adopted unanimously (15-0). - Appointment – LGBTQ Advisory Board: Violet Ho appointed for term Jan 30, 2026 to Dec 31, 2029 – Adopted unanimously (15-0). - Public Hearing Set – Master Plumber 51% Ownership Requirement: Resolution to set public hearing on July 20, 2026 at 7:30 PM for Local Law eliminating the 51% business ownership requirement for master plumbers (LL 2026-295) – Adopted unanimously (15-0). - Appointment – Commissioner of Social Services: Leonard Townes appointed to a five-year term (Feb 26, 2026 – Feb 26, 2031) – Adopted unanimously (15-0). - Agreement – Ethics Consultant/Counsel: Authorized agreement with Steven G. Leventhal as independent consultant and special counsel to the Board of Ethics, from Aug 1, 2026 to Jul 31, 2029, not to exceed $90,000 – Adopted unanimously (15-0). - Memorial Resolutions: Approved for Roberta Louise Hurley, Rita Rose Cestone, Evelyn Sanders, Clive Davis, and Linda Deutschen. The Board observed a moment of silence. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 7:30 PM. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Monday, July 20, 2026 at 7:00 PM.

A joint meeting of the Health and Legislation committees was held on Monday, June 29, 2026, beginning at 1:07 PM. The meeting covered three main topics: a prohibition on camouflaged vaping devices, a rebuttable presumption for flavored nicotine vapor products, and amendments to the plumbing licensing law. The meeting adjourned at 2:29 PM according to the transcript, though the minutes cite 2:08 PM. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes from the meetings of June 8, June 10, and June 15, 2026, were approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Prohibition on Camouflaged Vaping Devices (RES-2026-59 & LL Intro-2026-44): The committee discussed a resolution and local law to ban the sale, transfer, or gift of vaping devices that resemble everyday items like highlighters, USB drives, pens, or smartwatches. Assistant Deputy County Attorney Justin Adin noted a needed amendment to the definition of "vapor product" to include "as medical marijuana" at the end of a list of exceptions. The amendment was approved unanimously. Legislator Margaret Cunzio raised concerns about enforcement, particularly for person-to-person transfers and internet sales. Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler stated that her inspectors have not seen camouflage vapes in shops but suspect they are purchased online. The law would allow the Health Department to conduct stings using minors. The committee voted unanimously to approve the resolution and local law as amended and referred them to the full Board of Legislators. - Flavored Nicotine Vapor Products (RES-2026-212 & LL Intro-2026-213): The committee considered a proposal to create a rebuttable presumption that possession of four or more flavored nicotine vapor products indicates intent for sale within Westchester County. Discussion centered on whether to use the term "products" (as in New York City's law) or "packets" (matching state law). Legislator Margaret Cunzio questioned the clarity of "products" and the lack of court precedents. Assistant Deputy County Attorney Justin Adin and Associate County Attorney Jason Whitehead agreed to research the language and return with a recommendation. The committee also discussed adding camouflaged devices and inspection authority to this legislation. After a motion by Legislator Imamura, the committee voted unanimously to enter executive session at 1:34 PM to discuss legal advice regarding inspection powers. The committee returned from executive session at 1:57 PM and agreed to continue the item until the next meeting, pending language clarifications. - Plumbing Board Amendments (RES-2026-294 & LL Intro-2026-295): The committee reviewed a proposal to eliminate the requirement that a master plumber own 51% of a business to hold it out as providing plumbing services. Associate County Attorney Shawna MacLeod explained that a similar law in Rockland County was struck down in 2003 as unconstitutional, and Westchester’s rule has been inconsistently enforced. The proposed local law retains the requirement that all plumbing work be supervised by a licensed master plumber. A second change would allow the County Executive to appoint the chair of the Plumbing Board (currently elected by members). Legislator Margaret Cunzio questioned the rationale for removing the election process and whether other boards have appointed chairs. Attorney Adin cited the Police Board as an example. Legislator Imamura asked about litigation risk; no notices of claim are pending. Because key information was unavailable (Director of Consumer Protection Jim Maisano was on vacation), the committee voted to approve the public hearing resolution (2026-294) and to continue the local law until the July 13 meeting to allow for further input. Key Outcomes - Camouflaged Vaping Ban: The resolution and local law were approved unanimously (5 votes), with an amendment to include "as medical marijuana" in the definition. Referred to the Board of Legislators. - Flavored Nicotine Vapor Presumption: The public hearing and local law were continued without a vote; legal staff will refine the language. - Plumbing Board Changes: The public hearing resolution was approved unanimously; the local law was continued. - Receive and File: The committee received and filed a resolution from the Village of Croton-on-Hudson (2026-197) regarding legislative priorities. A quarterly report on the Animal Abuse Registry (2026-293) was tabled for further discussion, as Legislator Margaret Cunzio requested clarity on its status (the registry currently lists 10 individuals registered, with one non-compliant person using a recent arrest photo).