County Executive Andy Spano often speaks of his vision for a "continuum" of housing Westchester -- housing at all income levels for all sectors of the community. He recognizes the greatest need in the county is for an increased number of homes that are affordable to middle- and lower-income families, individuals and seniors.

Under state law, the county has limited legal authority to actually build housing. But, it can assist and encourage the construction of housing by private developers and non-profit agencies through funding the land acquisition, helping with construction costs and some infrastructure expenses related to the housing development.

The county executive's policies and programs have resulted in creation or preservation of housing units, including the construction of workforce housing and housing for seniors. At the same time, the county government has used its resources to promote "green and smart" technologies that are innovative and protect our environment. Other efforts are geared to encouraging local governments to do their part to create and preserve housing.

A county-produced video titled Housing Alive showcases affordable housing throughout the county, and demonstrates how it blends in with and improves our communities. Find out what affordable housing is and if you meet the federal income eligibility standards for it.

On this section of the Web site, you will find information about our many housing programs and other resources to help tenants (e.g. emergency rental assistance, New York State rent stabilization laws), landlords, developers and home buyers and owners, as well as people with special needs. You can also find out about the laws that protect you from housing discrimination and programs to get rid of dangerous lead paint in your building.

Many of these programs are administered by the county's Planning Department, which is there as a resource for local governments as well.