Westchester County Executive George Latimer just approved a budget for next year that includes a record investment in public safety and cuts taxes for the fourth straight year.

Latimer signed the deal at the county's Department of Emergency Services in Valhalla.

The county is allocating almost $280 million for public safety, corrections, probation and emergency services just months after crime dominated the election cycle.

Economic development, community health and parks are also priorities this year.
Latimer says the county is closing this year with a $66 million operating surplus, setting itself up for either a rise in inflation or possible recession in 2023.

"We've found a way now in the last couple of years to show solid financial management, higher bond rating, lower taxes, and at the same time deliver certain basic services," says Latimer. 

County legislators say they will consider reducing Bee-Line ParaTransit fees, increasing zero-waste initiatives and expanding tenants' rights programs in future budgets.