This Week in Westchester: The Podcast

Westchester County Government
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Your weekly audio briefing from Westchester County Government. Where each week, County Executive Ken Jenkins breaks down the decisions, investments and initiatives shaping life across Westchester. Clear information. Real progress. One place to stay informed.

Episodes

  1. 3D AGO

    TWIW 11: March 9, 2026

    In this episode: County Executive Ken Jenkins discussed Federal Department of Homeland Security Funding Standoff, and Westchester County Airport impacts.Cortlandt Town Supervisor Richard Becker discussed priorities and updates from the Town of Cortlandt, including ongoing community initiatives and the Town’s continued partnership with Westchester County to support residents and strengthen quality of life. Westchester County First Deputy Commissioner of Parks, Recreation and Conservation Peter Tartaglia provided an update on preparations for the upcoming season at Playland Park, including progress on park operations, attractions, and the official announcement of opening dates for the 2026 season.Westchester County Commissioner of Planning Blanca Lopez joined to discuss Census Test changes that could undercount communities and jeopardize funding. Westchester County has received a ‘AAA’ Credit Rating from S&P Global Ratings. The 2026 Championship in Section 1 Basketball wrapped up at the Westchester County Center. Westchester County will be celebrating Irish History Month on Tuesday, March 10. Highlights from the Westchester County Parks Department.  --- Do you have feedback or a suggestion for a future podcast topic? Please let us know by emailing communications@westchestercountyny.gov and include Podcast in the subject line. For the latest news & updates visit the Westchester County Newsroom or follow us on social: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) | LinkedIn | YouTube

    47 min
  2. Westchester, Explained 01: Lead Remediation

    MAR 4

    Westchester, Explained 01: Lead Remediation

    As an extension of our weekly "This Week in Westchester - The Podcast" we welcome you to Westchester, Explained. This is the first in a special long-form series where we'll take you deeper into the headlines, decisions and policies shaping Westchester County and their impact on your family, your neighborhood and your future. Here we will slow it down, dig in and bring in the people doing the work, and we'll explain not just what the County is doing, but why it matters. Because government should be clear. This is your County.  And this is Westchester, Explained.  Today we're focusing on something critical to the health and safety of our communities: lead poisoning prevention and remediation.  Joining for our premiere Westchester, Explained conversation are two leaders from the Westchester County Department of Health, Leslie E. Liberatore MSN, FNP-BC, Health Services Coordinator for the Immunization Action and Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Programs, and Christopher Ericson, Deputy Commissioner of Environmental Health -- who will discuss the launch of Westchester County's lead registry program, helpful tips to keep your family safe and to explain what you need to know as a Westchester resident about lead and why it matters.  Let's dive in. HOSTED BY:  Catherine Cioffi, Westchester County Communications Director --- Do you have feedback or a suggestion for a future podcast topic? Please let us know by emailing communications@westchestercountyny.gov and include Podcast in the subject line. For the latest news & updates visit the Westchester County Newsroom or follow us on social: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) | LinkedIn | YouTube

    27 min

  3. MAR 2

    TWIW 10: March 2, 2026

    In This Episode: County Executive Ken Jenkins gave an update on County Police Response to events in Iran.Video shared on keeping Bee-Line Bus stops safe and accessible during winter weather.Mount Vernon Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard joined to discuss priorities and key initiatives impacting Mount Vernon residents. Westchester Soccer Club CEO Mitch Baruchowitz discussed the Club’s upcoming season, community engagement, and the growing role of professional soccer in Westchester County. Jenkins introduced legislation titled “Westchester County Lessor Prevailing Wage Act,” which will ensure construction workers on projects undertaken for the County, but performed on leased property, receive fair, prevailing wages consistent with equitable labor standards. Westchester Medical Center Health Network Senior Vice President of Government and Community Relations Tom Scaglione and Hudson Valley Care Coalition CEO Amie Parikh discussed the Hudson Valley Social Care Network, a New York State-designated, Medicaid-funded initiative focused on improving whole-person care by addressing social determinants of health such as food access, housing stability, and transportation. Westchester County Office for Women Acting Director Catherine Borgia joined in recognition of Women’s History Month, discussing her new leadership role and continued advocacy on behalf of County residents. Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services Program Development Director Colette Phipps joined to discuss the County’s Livable Communities Initiative, and enhanced services supporting older adults aging safely and independently. Westchester County Deputy Director of Intergovernmental Relations and Internship Program Coordinator Copernicus Crane discussed the County Executive’s Internship Program, and opportunities to engage and develop the next generation of public service leaders. Westchester County Government officially transitioned its website domain from westchestergov.com to WestchesterCountyNY.gov, effective March 2. Irish Heritage Month will be celebrated on Tuesday, March 10 with a Flag Raising Ceremony. Highlights from the Westchester County Parks Department. --- Do you have feedback or a suggestion for a future podcast topic? Please let us know by emailing communications@westchestercountyny.gov and include Podcast in the subject line. For the latest news & updates visit the Westchester County Newsroom or follow us on social: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) | LinkedIn | YouTube

    41 min

  4. FEB 18

    TWIW 09: February 18, 2026

    Topics Included: ·      The Department of Public Safety and its Real Time Crime intelligence center are monitoring social media activity and working with municipal law enforcement partners to discourage so-called teen “takeovers” of retail venues and other public spaces.  ·      Countywide Waste Reduction Survey: Westchester County has released its comprehensive Waste Reduction Study, and the findings confirm that the County is leading when it comes to waste reduction. The Study has also outlined a forward-looking strategy to further increase recycling, reduce waste and advance a circular economy.  ·      In observance of National Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, My Sister’s Place Senior Director of Social Transformation Kymberly McNair will join to discuss the organization’s teen education and violence prevention program. ·      Deborah Novick, Director of Entrepreneurship and Innovation for the Westchester County Office of Economic Development announced that applications are now open for the Element 46 Tech Accelerator - now entering its 11th cohort.  ·      Westchester County Government will officially transition its website domain from westchestergov.com to WestchesterCountyNY.gov effective March 2, reinforcing the County’s commitment to transparency, security and public trust.  ·      County Executive Ken Jenkins acknowledges the passing of Richard L. Ottinger, Dean Emeritus and former Congressman, and the Rev. Jesse Jackson, recognizing their lasting contributions to public service, civil rights and the communities they served.  --- Do you have feedback or a suggestion for a future podcast topic? Please let us know by emailing communications@westchestercountyny.gov and include Podcast in the subject line. For the latest news & updates visit the Westchester County Newsroom or follow us on social: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) | LinkedIn | YouTube

    44 min

  5. FEB 9

    TWIW 08: February 9, 2026

    Topics Included: Remarks on the passing of Briarcliff Manor Trustee Malcolm Netburn. Village of Irvington Mayor Arlene Burgos gave an update on the Village. Westchester County athletes who proudly represented Team USA at the Winter Olympics. Westchester County Director of Surface Transportation Michael Swee and Director of Energy Conservation and Sustainability Peter McCartt discussed the launch of the Bee-Line Solar Light Pilot Program at select Bee-Line bus stops.Director of the Office for People with Disabilities Carin Horowitz and Westchester County Director of Policy & Programs Shari Rosen Ascher discussed the upcoming Diverse Abilities Job and Resource Fair at the Westchester County Center on April 15. Westchester County’s Heritage Month Events for the month of February. Deputy County Executive Joan McDonald shared upcoming Parks programs and highlights. --- Do you have feedback or a suggestion for a future podcast topic? Please let us know by emailing communications@westchestercountyny.gov and include Podcast in the subject line. For the latest news & updates visit the Westchester County Newsroom or follow us on social: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) | LinkedIn | YouTube

    29 min

  6. FEB 2

    TWIW 07: February 2, 2026

    Topics Included: Westchester County Department of Public Safety Commissioner Terrance Raynor, Mayor of Mount Kisco J. Michael Cindrich, Westchester County Board of Legislators Chair Vedat Gashi and Westchester County Legislator Erika Pierce discussed latest intermunicipal agreement (IMA) between Westchester County and the Village of Mount Kisco. The agreement allows Mount Kisco to continue receiving police services through the Westchester County Department of Public Safety.  The Westchester County Department of Correction has successfully completed a comprehensive two-day audit under the federal Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA). Westchester County Commissioner of Correction Joe Spano detailed how Westchester County was the first county jail in New York State to achieve PREA compliance.  Westchester County and the Westchester County Department of Health are encouraging residents to participate in National Wear Red Day on Friday, February 6, in recognition of American Heart Month.  Westchester County will be hosting two Black History Month events, as well as celebrating the Lunar New Year.  Muscoot Farm’s beloved feathered forecaster, Cluxatawney Henrietta, has called for an early spring.  Upcoming Westchester County Parks Programs.  --- Do you have feedback or a suggestion for a future podcast topic? Please let us know by emailing communications@westchestercountyny.gov and include Podcast in the subject line. For the latest news & updates visit the Westchester County Newsroom or follow us on social: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) | LinkedIn | YouTube

    54 min

  7. JAN 27

    TWIW 06: January 27, 2026

    Topics Included: A Winter Storm update. Westchester EMS Paramedics Revinson and Schivley safely delivered baby girl “Fern” during the storm.New Rochelle Mayor Yadira Ramos Herbert joined to discuss the latest happenings in her City. Newly-elected County Clerk Tom Roach joined to introduce himself to County residents. The former Mayor of White Plains brings extensive local government experience and a focus on public service. The Public Service Commission (PSC) announced they are accepting Con Edison rate increases.RPI has hired Bonnie Blumer as its dedicated Representative to live and work in Westchester. Blumer’s role will focus on working directly with employers, expanding visibility of the partnership, and strengthening the pipeline of Westchester County residents graduating from SUNY Westchester Community College and other Westchester-based higher education institutions into RPI’s bachelor’s degree programs. An introduction of the new Friends of Rye Playland group, led by former Westchester County First Lady Robin Latimer, focused on strengthening community engagement and preservation. Black History Month events and highlights from the Westchester County Parks Department. A tribute to the retirement of Deputy County Executive Richard Wishnie, after a long and distinguished career in public service. Watch the Richard Wishnie Tribute Video here. --- Do you have feedback or a suggestion for a future podcast topic? Please let us know by emailing communications@westchestercountyny.gov and include Podcast in the subject line. For the latest news & updates visit the Westchester County Newsroom or follow us on social: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) | LinkedIn | YouTube

    49 min

  8. JAN 20

    TWIW 05: January 20, 2026

    Topics Include: Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins provided a Town of Greenburgh Water Update. Jenkins announced the appointment of Lila Kirton as Deputy Director of Operations. Jenkins discussed the completion of a comprehensive Waste Reduction Study that looks at how Westchester can reduce waste and recycle more. New York State Attorney General Leticia James is hosting a Deed Theft and Foreclosure Prevention Program at the White Plains Public Library. Rye Mayor Josh Nathan discussed local priorities, current initiatives and community highlights from the City. Deputy County Executive Richard Wishnie and Special Advisor on Women and Families Catherine Borgia discussed the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force’s ongoing County-wide efforts to reduce gun violence through prevention, collaboration, and community-based strategies. New York Blood Center Community and Stakeholder Relations Manager Brian Harper spoke about the current blood emergency impacting New York, why you should donate blood, and where to do it. Jenkins gave an update on the iconic Dragon Coaster at Playland Park. Westchester County Parks, Recreation and Conservation First Deputy Commissioner Peter Tartaglia gave an update on Westchester County’s historic Ward Pound Ridge Reservation Fire Tower reconstruction project. Originally decommissioned in the 1970s, a new vintage tower is being constructed to bring the fire tower back as a signature landmark within the park. Once completed, the revitalized tower will offer sweeping panoramic views of the New York City skyline and Long Island Sound, creating a new destination for visitors and celebrating the site’s historic and recreational significance. Teatown Lake Reservation Executive Director Kevin Carter discussed the 22nd Annual Hudson River EagleFest, taking place Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Croton Point Park, drawing thousands of visitors from across the tri-state area to celebrate bald eagles and other birds of prey during their winter migration.  --- Do you have feedback or a suggestion for a future podcast topic? Please let us know by emailing communications@westchestercountyny.gov and include Podcast in the subject line. For the latest news & updates visit the Westchester County Newsroom or follow us on social: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) | LinkedIn | YouTube

    1h 2m

  9. JAN 12

    TWIW 04: January 12, 2026

    Topics included: Putnam Workforce Development Board Executive Director Thom Kleiner gave an overview of the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program ahead of the 2026 tax season. VITA is a free and trusted tax preparation program for low- and moderate-income residents. Westchester County Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler and Deputy Health Commissioner Chris Ericson gave an overview of the State’s new Lead Rental Registry aimed at preventing lead poisoning in young children and pregnant women. International Sumo League Founder and CEO Noah Goldman joined to discuss the World Championship in Sumo Wrestling being held January 30 at the Westchester County Center. The event will feature 12 of the world’s top professional sumo wrestlers who will compete in a high-energy championship event.  --- Do you have feedback or a suggestion for a future podcast topic? Please let us know by emailing communications@westchestercountyny.gov and include Podcast in the subject line. For the latest news & updates visit the Westchester County Newsroom or follow us on social: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) | LinkedIn | YouTube

    33 min

  10. JAN 5

    TWIW 03: January 5, 2026

    Topics included: County Executive Ken Jenkins gave an update on flu cases in Westchester. Update from Pound Ridge Supervisor Kevin Hansen on key town initiatives, local priorities and ongoing projects across Pound Ridge. Westchester County Director of Economic Development Bridget Gibbons and STEM Alliance President Margaret Käufer joined to highlight findings from Camoin’s recent economic impact study of the Connect Westchester program, and mark the milestone of the Program’s 500th completed cohort. Westchester County’s Bee-Line Bus System officially adopted OMNY, the MTA’s contactless fare payment system. Westchester County Government is officially launching This Week in Westchester: The Podcast Upcoming County, community and Parks events.  --- Do you have feedback or a suggestion for a future podcast topic? Please let us know by emailing communications@westchestercountyny.gov and include Podcast in the subject line. For the latest news & updates visit the Westchester County Newsroom or follow us on social: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) | LinkedIn | YouTube

    26 min

  11. 12/29/2025

    TWIW 02: December 29, 2025

    Topics included: The Westchester Department of the Public Safety joined to discuss stepped up enforcement for New Year’s Eve. What riders need to know about OMNY launching on Bee-Line buses January 4.  Guests included:Hugh Greechan, Commissioner, Department of Public Works & Transportation Blanca Lopez, Commissioner, Department of Planning Thomas Murphy, President, Liberty Lines Transit, Inc.Upcoming County, community and Parks events  --- Do you have feedback or a suggestion for a future podcast topic? Please let us know by emailing communications@westchestercountyny.gov and include Podcast in the subject line. For the latest news & updates visit the Westchester County Newsroom or follow us on social: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) | LinkedIn | YouTube

    31 min

  12. 12/22/2025

    TWIW 01: December 22, 2025

    Topics include: • Westchester County Youth Bureau Executive Director Ernest McFadden joins to discuss a $3.1 million County investment in youth development through the Invest in Kids program • Westchester County Department of Environmental Facilities First Deputy Commissioner Lou Vetrone joins to discuss new AI-powered robotics at the County’s Materials Recovery Facility to increase recycling efficiency and reduce contamination • What riders need to know about OMNY launching on Bee-Line buses January 4 • Reflections from County Executive Jenkins as Westchester prepares for Inauguration Day • Upcoming County, community and Parks events --- Do you have feedback or a suggestion for a future podcast topic? Please let us know by emailing communications@westchestercountyny.gov and include Podcast in the subject line. For the latest news & updates visit the Westchester County Newsroom or follow us on social: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) | LinkedIn | YouTube

    27 min
  • 12 Episodes

About

Your weekly audio briefing from Westchester County Government. Where each week, County Executive Ken Jenkins breaks down the decisions, investments and initiatives shaping life across Westchester. Clear information. Real progress. One place to stay informed.

Information

  • Creator
    Westchester County Government
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 This Week in Westchester: The Podcast
  • Show Website
    This Week in Westchester: The Podcast

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