County Executive George Latimer, with L-R- Legislators Catherine Parker left, Deputy County Executive Ken Jenkins, Legislator Ben Boykin, Legislator David Imamura
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In a significant milestone for the residents of Westchester County, County Executive George Latimer signed several crucial environmental bills that have been crafted by his Administration, through the County’s Director of Research Ellen Hendrickx and Director of Environment, Energy, & Sustainability Peter McCartt, and refined through months of collaboration with the Board of Legislators. These bills represent the County’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for our community by addressing pressing issues and meeting the evolving needs of our residents.
Latimer said: “The signing of these bills into law is a testament to the power of collaboration and the steadfast dedication of our Board of Legislators to improve the lives of Westchester County residents and protect our planet’s future. Through their hard work and our shared commitment to good governance, we have crafted and signed laws that address pressing issues in our community. Further, our bold steps towards expanding access to Electric Vehicle charging stations and electrifying our car and bus fleet reflect our determination to lead the way in sustainability. We are proud to serve the people of Westchester, and together, we are building a brighter, cleaner future for our County.”
The environmental law package includes:
· The Lead Free Parks Act which will create a process for monitoring and remediating drinking water in all County parks to ensure its safety
· The Addressing Asthma in Communities of Color Amendment which will create a subcommittee of the African-American Advisory Board dedicated to studying the high rates of Asthma in communities of color
· The Renewable Energy Database Act which will allow the County to assist municipalities in their move to create more renewable energy by establishing a database to encourage siting of renewable energy infrastructure on municipal property
· The Equity in Environmental Legislation Act which will ensure that all communities are treated fairly when the County is considering any new law in an effort to combat historical cases of violation of environmental justice
In addition to these legislative wins, Westchester County is proud to announce its ambitious efforts to expand access to Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations and electrify the County’s car and bus fleet. Now, nearly all (90%) of the County’s 325 buses are either all electric or electric hybrid. Additionally, 33 public EV Charging Stations have been installed and another 206 in process which will be up and running by the summer of 2024 (with at least another 148 will be installed by the fall of 2025). In line with the County’s dedication to sustainability and a cleaner, greener future, the County is taking significant strides to reduce our carbon footprint and promote the adoption of electric vehicles. By enhancing the accessibility of EV charging stations, buses and the County’s EV fleet, Westchester is encouraging residents to embrace electric transportation options, reducing emissions and contributing to a healthier environment.
McCartt said: “We take our role as good stewards of our County very seriously – and the County Executive’s signing of these wide ranging bills shows it. I am looking forward to working toward the implementation of these important initiatives.”
Hendrickx said: “These accomplishments, both in legislative improvements and our commitment to sustainable transportation, underscore Westchester County’s dedication to its residents and the environment.”
Chair of the African American Advisory Board Barbara Edwards said: “The Addressing Asthma in Communities of Color Amendment is a critical step forward in addressing a pressing health concern in our communities. This law underscores our commitment to the well-being of our residents, particularly those in communities of color who have been disproportionately affected by asthma. We thank County Executive Latimer for his dedications to studying and tackling this issue head-on, ensuring that everyone in Westchester County can breathe easier and live healthier lives.”
