Board Chairman Vedat Gashi (D–New Castle, Ossining, Somers, Yorktown) said, “Families and businesses across Westchester are facing significant financial pressures. This task force reflects our commitment to finding real-world solutions that can make a difference. There’s a lot to be done, and our first meeting represents a strong start. We look forward to the work ahead.”

The task force includes inaugural organizational members representing Westchester’s business and nonprofit communities, including the Business Council of Westchester, the Westchester County Association, Nonprofit Westchester, and the New York Apartment Association. Their participation will help ensure recommendations reflect a broad range of economic perspectives. In addition to the previously mentioned organizations, last week’s meeting drew representatives Westchester County Tourism & Film, Child Care Council of Westchester, Westchester Women’s Agenda, Hudson Gateway Association of Realtors, SUNY Westchester Community College and The Building & Realty Institute.

In the coming months, the task force will hold a countywide listening tour; a series of public meetings, each focused on a different topic. The sessions will give residents, employers, service providers, advocates, and subject matter experts an opportunity to share their experiences and ideas. Input gathered through these meetings will shape a findings report and policy recommendations for the Board to consider next year.