In an effort to help assist, unify and support all local municipalities in Westchester County during the COVID-19 pandemic, Westchester County Executive George Latimer has been visiting with municipal boards across the County to offer guidance, and updated information on the Coronavirus to the County’s communities. In addition, Westchester County Government has established a tri-weekly phone call with the mayors, town supervisors and County legislators, to provide an opportunity for an open dialogue about local Coronavirus response efforts in our communities.
Latimer said: “I have made it a point to visit with our local municipal boards, and offer support from Westchester County during this difficult time. We are all concerned about the impact COVID-19 could have on the health and well-being of our residents, and this public health matter is growing and changing every day. It is my hope that these weekly conversations provide a platform for local leaders to ask questions, and get the feedback they need on the policies that are working throughout the County.”
Mayor of New Rochelle Noam Bramson said: “We are deeply grateful for County Executive Latimer's exceptional leadership during this time of unprecedented challenge. The County Executive and his team have been working in round-the-clock collaboration with New Rochelle and other municipalities, and their guidance has been essential in mobilizing a coherent and effective regional response.”
Bedford Town Supervisor Chris Burdick said: “We appreciate County Executive Latimer joining us at our Town Board meeting on Tuesday night. He arrived in person, but participated in our videoconference via Zoom at a laptop in an open office, which was very easy and user-friendly. Staying with us for nearly an hour, we were able to ask him a wide variety of questions which gave us assurances that the County is handling this crisis extremely well.”
Mount Kisco Mayor Gina Picinich said: “During troubled times, communication and coordination are essential. The calls facilitated by County Executive Latimer and his team have demonstrated extraordinary leadership. They have provided needed information for municipal officials to respond to these unprecedented circumstances.”
The phone calls can include discussions about the reduction of local departments and staff, precautions that should be taken for vulnerable communities like senior citizens, or questions about school or childcare programs. Latimer is keeping municipal leaders updated and informed with the rapidly changing situation surrounding COVID-19.
Latimer continued: “We will overcome this. It may not be overnight, but it will be together. We must ensure we are doing all we can do protect all who live in this great County."