Jenkins Delivers ‘Hopeful’ State of the County Address

By Rick Pezzullo—

Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins delivered his second State of the County Address last week, outlining a year of measurable progress, continued investment and a people-first approach to governing.

“If anyone asks what is the State of our County—tell them it is not found in a report, a spreadsheet or a speech… The State of our County is our people… your struggles, your resilience, your hopes—and your voices,” Jenkins said before the Board of Legislators, department heads and invited guests.

“The State of our County is strong. The State of our County is hopeful. And the State of our County is you,” he stressed.

Jenkins highlighted the county’s finances, stressing once again Westchester earned the highest possible “AAA” bond ratings from both S&P Global Ratings and Fitch Ratings, reflecting strong financial management, healthy reserves and long-term fiscal stability.

“I made a promise to you that I would always lead with honesty and with reality, not politics. And the truth is this: it would be irresponsible—truly irresponsible—for me to hold the line or cut taxes while the needs of our residents are growing every single day,” he said.

Jenkins also pinpointed the county’s significant declines in crime across all seven-index categories in 2025 compared to 2024 with overall crime down 17% and violent crime down 25%.

Jenkins concluded his speech by calling on residents to move forward together—with courage, with compassion, and with confidence in what can be achieved.

 

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