Latimer Transition Team Presents Final Report

The findings of a 15-member transition team appointed by the administration of Westchester County Executive George Latimer were released this week with more than 500 recommendations for improving services in Westchester.

From mid-November through mid-January, the committees met frequently, sent out public surveys, interviewed stakeholders, conducted issue research and worked diligently to come up with a refreshed set of policy and personnel recommendations. Public hearings were held throughout the County to elicit testimony from a broad range of constituents. The groups tackled complex issues such as Playland, environment and sustainability, and the backlog of capital projects. The final Transition Report contained over 500 recommendations to improve County services, increase transparency and instill best practices.

“It was an honor to serve on the Transition Team,’’ said Marsha Gordon, President and CEO of the Business Council of Westchester, who served as co-chair of the economic development committee.  “We heard from so many people on what they believe Westchester County should focus on in developing short- and long-term policies to promote economic development. We know that the administration will find our report useful in the months ahead.’’

Committees that served as part of the Transition Team included:

• Administrative Services, Co-Chairs Karen Pasquale and Richard McSpedon
• Criminal Justice, Co-Chairs Robin Bikkal and Hon. Clinton Young
• Economic Development, Co-Chars Michael Romita, William Mooney and Marsha Gordon
• Health and Mental Health, Co-Chairs Edgar Santana and Farah Kathwari
• Operations, Co-Chairs Jonathan Wang, Mary Ann Carr and Thomas Carey
• Social Services, Co-Chairs Alisa Kesten, Linda Viertel and Rev. Troy DeCohen

Latimer said of their work, “I greatly appreciate the hard work, thoughtful analysis and comprehensive approach that all participants in this process undertook. This transition team represents a new paradigm in citizen engagement in County government, and this interaction will continue throughout my administration.”