Westchester County Board of Legislators Chair Vedat Gashi designated County Emergency Services Commissioner Richard G. Wishnie, pictured above, as Acting County Executive after Congressman-elect George Latimer officially stepped down from the role after seven years.
Wishnie’s appointment is a historic first for Westchester, as the temporary role of Acting County Executive is triggered when a sitting County Executive vacates the position nine months (or longer) before the term’s end. Wishnie will serve until January 6, 2025, when the Board of Legislators selects a new County Executive. That appointee will serve until a Special Election takes place — within 90 days from today. Voters will then determine who will fill the remainder of Latimer’s term through December 31, 2025.
BOL Chair Gashi said: “I’m honored to designate Commissioner Richard Wishnie as our first-ever Acting County Executive. His long-standing commitment to public service, both as a six-term County Legislator and leader across the County, makes him the ideal choice to guide Westchester during this unique transition.”
Wishnie said: “It is an honor to serve as Acting Westchester County Executive during this transitional period. I am committed to ensuring a seamless succession and continuing to deliver for the residents of Westchester County. I extend my gratitude to Chairman Vedat Gashi for his partnership and leadership during this time and to Deputy County Executive Ken Jenkins, who will greatly help steady the transition with his deep understanding of County operations. Throughout my career in public service, I have been driven by a deep commitment to our community. I firmly believe that Westchester’s brightest days lie ahead, and I am confident in our ability to navigate this transition while continuing to serve the residents of Westchester County with dedication and excellence.”
Westchester County Communications Director Catherine Cioffi issued the following statemet.
“At 12:01 p.m. today, George Latimer resigned his position as Westchester County Executive. At 12:02 p.m., Westchester County Board of Legislators Chairman Vedat Gashi designated Richard Wishnie, the Commissioner of the Westchester County Department of Emergency Services, to serve as Acting Westchester County Executive. This position is temporary until Monday, January 6, at which time the Westchester County Board of Legislators will meet to vote to designate a County Executive and set the date for a special election.
“Commissioner Wishnie is a lifelong public servant; however, he will not be seeking the role of County Executive. Additionally, the special election must be held within 90 days of County Executive Latimer’s resignation. Once the winner of the special election is determined and certified by the Board of Elections, that person will serve as Westchester County Executive through December 31, 2025, completing what would have been the remainder of County Executive Latimer’s term.
“We understand this process may seem confusing and a bit cumbersome. However, it is important to note that it is all dictated by the County Charter, which was drafted in 1937. We are grateful to Commissioner Wishnie for his commitment to the County and look forward to working with him during these next few days. We also thank Deputy County Executive Ken Jenkins for being a steadfast pillar during this transitional time.
“As dedicated public servants, we in the Executive Branch deeply value the residents of Westchester County and the hardworking County employees who keep our community thriving. As we navigate this transitional period, please rest assured that we are committed to ensuring a smooth, peaceful and calm transition.”
