Westchester County

In celebration of Irish Heritage Month, Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins hosted a flag ceremony and reception at the Michaelian Office Building in White Plains. The event, attended by community organizations, residents and local leaders, celebrated the contributions of Irish Americans to the County's history and culture. Irish Heritage Month is a time to recognize the Irish community's resilience, achievements and lasting impact. For generations, the Irish community have played a crucial role in shaping Westchester County, from public service and education to business and the arts. The flag ceremony reflected the County's commitment to honoring that legacy and celebrating the strength of its diverse cultural heritage. County Executive Ken Jenkins said: "The Irish community has made significant contributions to the growth and success of Westchester County. Their dedication to family, faith and hard work has shaped our communities and enriched our cultural landscape. As we celebrate Irish Heritage Month, we recognize the generations of Irish Americans and their ancestors who have helped build this County and continue to make a positive impact every day. We proudly celebrate their heritage and honor the values they bring to Westchester." Read more here: https://ow.ly/tsgJ50VgXKs

Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins signed legislation that solidifies the County’s commitment to challenging Con Edison’s proposed utility rate increases. This action follows a unanimous, bipartisan vote by the Westchester County Board of Legislators to join the major rate case in New York State. Jenkins said: “We are taking a strong stand today to protect our residents from unreasonable utility rate hikes. This legislation ensures that Westchester County will have a powerful voice in the rate case proceedings, advocating for working families, seniors, and small businesses who would be disproportionately affected by the proposed hikes.” Learn more at https://lnkd.in/eHqcKpxG

Happy #InternationalWomensDay!

Westchester County is partnering with hospitals and health systems Countywide for Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Westchester County Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler said March is a time to raise awareness about colorectal cancer, the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States, and to get checked if you are over 40 or earlier, depending on family and personal history. Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “Colorectal cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in men under 50 and the second leading cause of cancer death in women under 50. Each year, more young men and women in their 30s and 40s are diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Screening saves lives.” Amler said: “If you are in your forties, it’s time to discuss your family history, identify your risk factors and learn ways to reduce risks through lifestyle changes and regular screening. For most of us, screening should start at age 45, but if your parent or sibling was diagnosed with polyps or colorectal cancer, screening should begin even earlier.” In addition to regular colonoscopies, the Health Department emphasizes that over half of all colorectal cancers are linked to lifestyle factors, including physical inactivity, poor nutrition, excess body weight, and tobacco and alcohol use. Protect your health by maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and incorporating more vegetables, fruits, and whole grains into your diet. Steer clear of tobacco, and try to limit or avoid red and processed meats, sugary drinks, refined grains, and alcohol. This month, the County Health Department will begin connecting patients who are eligible for colorectal cancer screenings with affordable options. Learn more here: https://ow.ly/L63w50VbfWQ

Apply for Westchester County's Element 46 Tech Accelerator Spring 2025 cohort by March 10! ?? Designed to support early-stage companies, the Element 46 Tech Accelerator provides participants with the tools, resources, and mentorship needed to grow their businesses in Westchester County. From expert-led workshops to one-on-one mentorship, the program is a launchpad for ambitious entrepreneurs looking to take their ventures to the next level! Learn more about applying: https://bit.ly/3XkjDGC #Element46 #TechAccelerator #StartUp #Entrepreneurship #WestchesterBusiness

Explore Westchester County Parks’ wide variety of seasonal jobs and apply and interview on the spot on Saturday, March 15, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Westchester County Center in White Plains. The many positions include Nature Camp Counselors, Recreation Attendants, Lifeguards and more. The locations span the entire Westchester County Parks system at our 50+ facilities: https://lnkd.in/e-DcamxM. The job fair will be held in the Little Theater.

Join us on Wednesday, March 12 at 5:30 p.m. outside of the Michaelian Office Building as we raise the Irish flag in celebration on Irish Heritage Month. Please RSVP to [email protected] by Wednesday, March 5.

Westchester County will break ground on a new Mental Health Safety Net Clinic. The Clinic, located at 112 East Post Road in White Plains, will be a state-of-the-art facility which will expand clinic capacity to meet local shortfalls, and address the waitlist for care across Westchester County. Recognizing the increasing need to provide a center of care with quality clinical services that includes diagnostic evaluations, mental health treatment and referrals in compliance with New York State Mental Hygiene Laws, the Westchester County Legislature approved a $1 Million bond act for the design and construction of this critically needed facility. The newly developed clinic will help to increase access to essential mental health services that have seen an uptick in need in recent years. The new clinic will be managed by the County’s Department of Community Mental Health. County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “Westchester has seen an increase in demand for mental health services and we will continue to meet that need with the opening of this clinic. It is exciting to have reached this point to break ground as I know of the great deal of effort that has gone into reaching this next step. The coordination between our Department of Community Mental Health and the State agencies to get approvals and permits, to hire staff to work in and oversee the operation of the Center, to design a facility that will be welcoming and accommodating, were vital actions to ensure success have all led us to where we are today.” Read more here: https://ow.ly/y7hV50V9JSt

Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins Statement on Ukraine “What we witnessed in the Oval Office between President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was disgraceful. Their behavior was not only embarrassing but a blatant act of bullying toward a leader who has demonstrated extraordinary courage and resilience. It was an insult to our democratic ally, Ukraine, and to the leadership President Zelenskyy has shown in the face of incomprehensible adversity. “Like most Americans, I am deeply concerned about the impact this aggression and disrespect could have on our relationship with Ukraine and our European allies. For over three years, the people of Ukraine have fought with incredible valor and bravery against the unprovoked invasion of their sovereign territory and criminal killing of its people by Russia. “President Trump and Vice President Vance owe President Zelenskyy — and the American people — a sincere apology for their undignified and dangerous conduct. To the brave people of Ukraine: Westchester County stands firmly with you. We offer our support and solidarity in your fight for freedom and peace.”

Following the closure of the Social Security Office in White Plains, Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins and U.S. Congressman George Latimer stepped in to ensure continued access to vital services. In a proactive move, they offered County-owned space to the federal government to serve as a new Social Security Office, preserving local access for residents. Jenkins said: “Our priority is ensuring that Westchester County maintains access to essential services. We are committed to supporting seniors, individuals with disabilities and many others by finding solutions that keep Social Security resources available in White Plains. I’m grateful to Congressman Latimer for collaborating with me and Westchester County to turn this request and proposed solution into a reality.” Read more: https://ow.ly/KeUm50V9vCg