The $2.5 billion budget, passed in December, cut funding for all county departments by 8%, eliminated 180 positions and increased taxes by 3.7%. Jenkins attributed the cuts to historic fiscal pressure from the federal government that was connected to a county budget gap of $197.7 million.
Despite the reductions, the county budget maintained programs deemed essential, including low income child care, affordable housing, eviction prevention, mental health, and assistance to first responders, Jenkins said at an event on Jan. 22 hosted by Westchester County Association.
Jenkins, a Democrat, pledged to continue funding affordable housing developments to help seniors aging in place or downsize, as well as support child care programs.
He also unveiled an economic development initiative that partners with business, higher education and civic leaders to strengthen the county’s economic competitiveness. The program, Blueprint’26, aims to identify priority industries and infrastructure needs while exploring investment opportunities.
“A strong economy doesn’t happen by accident,” Jenkins said. “This initiative brings together the data, the expertise, and the partnerships needed to make informed decisions about Westchester’s future.”
Helu Wang covers economic growth, real estate and education for The Journal News/lohud and USA Today Network. Reach her at hwang@gannett.com and follow her @helu.wangny on Instagram.