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The $2.5 billion proposed 2025 Westchester County operating budget was unveiled by County Executive George Latimer in a presentation given on Thursday, Nov. 7.
According to Latimer, the budget proposal maintains the same tax levy as the 2024 budget, making it the sixth consecutive year without an increase if it is passed.
The proposal "prioritizes key areas such as public safety, emergency preparedness, housing, health and mental health services, as well as environmental and economic development programs," Latimer said.
If passed, the budget would make the following allocations:
- $50 million for affordable housing development;
- $500,000 for on-call planning consultants to quicken the implementation of affordable housing and flood mitigation projects;
- $78 million for the Westchester County Police Department;
- $161 million for the Department of Protection;
- $46 million for Probation;
- $18 million for Emergency Services;
- $78 million for childcare subsidies.
Additionally, the proposed budget would fund the development of a mental health outpatient clinic at 112 East Pond Rd. in White Plains; community vaccination clinics; support for workforce development programs in healthcare and clean energy; the replacement of 21 diesel buses with electric-hybrid or fully electric buses; and food pantries.
"This budget underscores this administration’s commitment to meeting community needs through robust funding for essential programs and services," said Deputy County Executive Ken Jenkins, who added, "Key initiatives will continue to receive support, reflecting a balanced approach that safeguards resident services without adding to the tax burden."
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