In an ongoing effort to address the increasing impact of flooding and severe weather storms on residents, businesses and infrastructure in Westchester, the County Department of Planning has hired a Director of Flood Mitigation and Resiliency. Dean Tarulli, formerly of the New York State Office of Storm Recovery and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), has joined Westchester County Government to help develop and manage flood prevention and mitigation projects, as well as look at ways to maximize state and federal funding in communities plagued with flooding issues.
Westchester County Executive George Latimer said: “We have all seen the catastrophic impact flooding and severe storms can have on our residents and businesses throughout Westchester County, which is why we created this brand new position as part of our 2024 County budget. Dean Tarulli has been brought on to create a more comprehensive approach to flooding concerns in all of our communities, and we know the County will greatly benefit from his past experience and expertise.”
Westchester County Commissioner of Planning Blanca Lopez said: “Almost every day, we hear from municipalities and County residents alike about the need to increase the resiliency of communities impacted by flooding. Adding Dean Tarulli to the Planning staff sends a clear message that this is a priority and a critical step forward in order to take immediate action. We welcome Mr. Tarulli to the Planning Department and look forward to his leadership in this role.”
Tarulli said: “I am looking forward to this exciting role and the challenges it presents. Thank you to everyone who has been working on this issue. Together, we will build upon past successes and create solutions for a more resilient Westchester.”
Tarulli’s responsibilities will also include:
- Administrating the County’s Flood Mitigation Program funded in the Capital Budget
- Addressing concerns from local municipalities as the County’s Floodplain Coordinator
- Collaborating closely with many County Departments including the Department of Emergency Services, Department of Environmental Facilities and Department of Public Works and Transportation