A Progress Report from Commissioner Joseph Stout

Welcome to the Westchester County Parks Department. This year we were the proud hosts of the New York State Empire Games, which brought together thousands of amateur athletes from around the state to compete in a variety of sports ranging from archery and swimming to tennis, soccer and wrestling. It was the first time that the games, which are New York’s answer to the Olympics, were played in Westchester. It was an honor and a special privilege for County Parks to be the lead agency hosting this landmark event.

The teamwork and effort that went into making the games a resounding success for Westchester is something of which I will always be proud and always remember. For almost two years, our staff worked very hard to prepare for this very special weeklong event. Nearly every division of the department played a key role in the development and implementation of a flawless opening ceremony at Kensico Dam Plaza and the logistical support of the games themselves.

In addition to the games, which attracted almost 20,000 spectators and athletes, throughout the year we host more than three million visitors at more than 50 facilities including parks, nature centers, hiking and biking trails, a landmark amusement park, golf courses, pools, beaches and other outstanding life enriching recreational facilities. I am very proud to lead this nationally accredited department, which plays such an important role in ensuring a safe environment, preserving our precious green space and enriching the lives of our customers.

Since being named commissioner nearly five years ago, I have been fortunate to lead a team of employees who have met the new challenges demanded of public agencies in the 21^st century.

The pages of this report reflect this progress. I hope you have a moment to share our success by reviewing some of the highlights of 2006 and 2007. If you are in or near Westchester, I invite you to visit our world-class parks system. You will find places where you can exercise, play or just relax and enjoy the outdoors any time of year.

Joseph A. Stout, CPRP,
Commissioner, Westchester County Parks

Report from the Commissioner 2006-07

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