Latimer Unveils 2025 Proposed County Operating Budget

Westchester County Executive George Latimer presented his seventh budget proposal to the Westchester County Board of Legislators, unveiling a $2.5 billion plan that prioritizes vital services for County residents, while upholding fiscal responsibility. The 2025 Proposed County Operating Budget maintains the same tax levy as 2024 for the County General Fund, marking the sixth consecutive year without an increase.

Speaking at press conference yesterday, Latimer said, “The proposed 2025 budget reflects our dedication to responsible financial management while maintaining freezing tax rates for the last six budgets. This budget prioritizes key areas such as public safety, emergency preparedness, housing, health and mental health services, as well as environmental and economic development programs.”

Deputy County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “This budget underscores this administration’s commitment to meeting community needs through robust funding for essential programs and services. Key initiatives will continue to receive support, reflecting a balanced approach that safeguards resident services without adding to the tax burden.”

Business Council of Westchester President and CEO Dr. Marsha Gordon said: “The Business Council of Westchester (BCW) the County’s largest business membership organization focusing on economic development and advocacy appreciates County Executive Latimer’s administration’s efforts to present a balanced budget that once again maintains the County’s tax levy as they did last year, making this the sixth consecutive year without a levy increase. We are also pleased that the County continues to preserve its important credit rating, as it will once again receive ‘AAA’ credit rating from Fitch Ratings. This designation of a stable rating sends a strong message to the business community that Westchester County’s fiscal house is in order.”

Hightlights include:

Affordable Housing: The 2025 budget places a significant emphasis on the need for fair and affordable housing. The County will be launching the Office of Housing Counsel to provide grants for legal services and eviction diversion. Also, $50 million has been allocated for affordable housing development.

Public Safety: The proposed 2025 budget is the fourth consecutive budget that provides record funding of $303 million for public safety.

Health and Mental Health: Budget continues the partnerships with Federal Qualified Health Center networks, Project Alliance—a multipronged program to address the needs of Westchester County residents with behavioral health challenges. 

Economic Development and Tourism: To further the County’s efforts on the area of economic development, the 2025 budget provides for continued MWBE technical assistance and procurement fairs, programs for expansion of the local biosciences sector, support for entrepreneurs and workforce development programs in healthcare and clean energy.

Environmental Initiatives: Environment and climate resiliency initiatives include the Municipal EV charging grant program, Climate Action Council’s planning institute technical assistance for NYS grants for municipalities, expansion of free compost giveaway days, continuation of the municipal food waste program and institution of several new recycling programs.

Child Care And Food Security:  Budget also addresses affordable child care and food security.  The County has earmarked $78 million for childcare subsidies, an increase of $22 million from the prior year. This budget continues funding for food pantries to address food security.