Deputy County Executive Ken Jenkins
By Rina Beder
Two longstanding traditions were featured at the December 10, 2024 meeting of the Larchmont-Mamaroneck Local Summit: the hosting of the Westchester County Executive to discuss County affairs and the return to the Nautilus Diner as the program venue. This year, due to Congressman-elect George Latimer’s obligations, Deputy County Executive Ken Jenkins addressed the community. Jenkins, a seasoned leader with over a decade of legislative experience and six years as Deputy County Executive, provided a comprehensive update on County priorities, challenges, and successes.
County Budget and Taxes
Jenkins emphasized fiscal responsibility and strategic investments in his remarks on the recently adopted 2024 County budget. Notably, the operating budget reflects a 0% increase in the property tax levy for the sixth consecutive year. Despite maintaining this flat tax levy, the County continues to make critical investments in public safety, infrastructure, and community services.
Jenkins also addressed the increase in special district taxes, which were reportedly raised by an average of 9%, as indicated by The Journal News. Jenkins stressed that funds are needed to support critical infrastructure investments, such as wastewater recovery facilities and that any increases vary by municipality. In addition, stated Jenkins, bond rating agencies have looked favorably on the County’s funding strategy and its move away from an overreliance on reserves.
Addressing Affordable Housing
Affordable housing was one of the focal points at the meeting. Over the past 7.5 years, Jenkins explained, Westchester has developed 6,000 units of affordable housing to meet growing demand. However, challenges and need persist.
“We’re working closely with municipalities to address housing needs,” Jenkins explained. He highlighted the County’s Housing Needs Assessment, which serves as a roadmap for identifying housing gaps and setting priorities. “We are working closely with municipalities to determine how they can meet the specific needs outlined in the assessment,” he said. To support these efforts, the County established a $100 million flex fund, aimed at addressing cost increases caused by supply chain issues and rising interest rates on approved projects.
Additionally, Jenkins emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for residents to age in place and ensuring that they can remain in the same community where they have lived for years.
Tackling Flooding and Climate Change
The impact of climate change and flooding remains a pressing issue for Westchester. “Westchester is one big hill, and water flows downhill,” Jenkins explained, noting that flooding disproportionately affects certain communities.
Jenkins outlined ongoing studies and initiatives, and expressed optimism regarding the funding of flood mitigation projects through the Environmental Bond Act. Regarding development in surrounding communities that could contribute to increased flooding, Jenkins pointed out that County law requires that flooding must be evaluated prior to project approval.
Jenkins also highlighted efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through food scrap recycling programs, investments in alternative fuel vehicles and the recycling of methane gas at wastewater treatment facilities.
Immigration
Jenkins addressed the County’s ongoing efforts to support immigrant populations while adhering to legal obligations. While the County is not a sanctuary county and is not taking a position on the proposed NYS bill known as “NY For All”, Westchester’s 2018 Immigrant Protection Act (IPA), safeguards residents’ rights, enforces the law and “ensures we do not do the federal government’s job or use any of our resources to do what the federal government is supposed to do” said Jenkins.
Jenkins also recognized that some community partners and residents are scared and indicated that the County is working closely with the County Attorney and the NYS Attorney General’s office to ensure enforcement of the IPA. Jenkins also highlighted the County’s collaboration with nonprofits like Feeding Westchester and the Community Resource Center to address increased demand for assistance.
Building Partnerships and Moving Forward
Throughout his address, Jenkins emphasized the importance of collaboration with municipalities, nonprofits, as well as with community stakeholders and coming up with creative solutions.
“We are committed to working together to find creative solutions and be there for everyone,” Jenkins said. “Westchester,” he continued, “has a track record of past successes in meeting challenges.”
The Larchmont-Mamaroneck Local Summit is an informal community council that seeks to make a better life for the community by keeping it informed of major issues of concern. The next meeting on January 14th will address the state of the local economy. Visit the Local Summit online: https://www.localsummitlm.org/ LMC Media: https://lmcmedia.org/.
