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Longtime Cortlandt, Peekskill, Yorktown Legislator Testa Will Not Run Again

The Westchester County legislature will have a new Republican minority leader next year with John Testa's announcement that he will not seek reelection.

Longtime Westchester Legislator John Testa

Longtime Westchester Legislator John Testa

Photo Credit: Contributed

After more than two decades serving as an elected official in Westchester, Testa announced on Thursday that he will not run for reelection in 2019 at the conclusion of his fifth term as a county legislator.

Before becoming a county legislator representing Cortlandt, Peekskill and Yorktown - including six years as the minority leader for the Board - Testa was elected in 1997 as a Peekskill City Councilman and then served three terms as mayor of Peekskill.

“I want to thank the communities I have represented for the continued support given to me over the years,” Testa said in a statement announcing he will not seek reelection. “It has been an honor and a pleasure to serve and now it is time to pass the torch and step back from elected office.”

A career educator at Peekskill High School, Testa retired from teaching in 2013 after 33 years, though he continued his government work.

“My record of fiscal responsibility is one I am very proud of. I wanted to also elevate the standing of Northern Westchester communities in county government and bring the appropriate resources and infrastructure improvements we deserve,” Testa said. “I was particularly pleased to bring an office to Peekskill that provides free legal services for eligible Northern Westchester veterans, seniors and victims of domestic violence.”

Testa added that, “although I am leaving public service I intend to remain active and continue to contribute to my community. I will now have more time to dedicate to the Lincoln Depot Museum and emerging business responsibilities. More opportunity to travel, read and learn is very attractive to me. Most importantly, I look forward to more time with my family and being a soon-to-be grandfather.”

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