New York State Processes 2018 and 2019 Shared Services Matches, Delivering Tax Savings for Local Municipalities
Westchester County has received $677,086.87 from the New York State County-Wide Shared Services Initiative (CWSSI), after processing the 2018 and 2019 shared services plans submitted by the County. The CWSSI program helps local governments reduce costs and lower property taxes by fostering collaboration among municipalities and school districts. Through this initiative, Westchester County developed and implemented multiple projects to modernize operations, improve efficiency, and deliver financial relief to taxpayers.
The County’s submitted 2018 and 2019 plans included a wide range of cost-saving initiatives. These projects focused on streamlining government services, digitizing records, enhancing public safety and improving sustainability efforts. Key initiatives included the development of a county-wide shared services portal, electronic records management, centralized IT contracts and regional tax assessment programs.
Public safety improvements were also a priority, with projects consolidating law enforcement operations, enhancing emergency management coordination and expanding school resource officer programs. Additional efforts included energy efficiency initiatives, municipal purchasing collaborations, and feasibility studies to explore the consolidation of water and sewer districts.
County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “Westchester County remains focused on finding new ways to reduce costs while ensuring high-quality services for our residents. The success of these shared services programs demonstrates the power of collaboration in delivering meaningful financial relief to municipalities and taxpayers.”
Director of Operations Joan McDonald said: “The CWSSI provides crucial support to municipalities operating within tight budgets. By working together, local governments can achieve efficiencies that would be difficult to accomplish alone. This funding reinforces the value of inter-municipal cooperation and helps strengthen the services provided to residents.”
With the State’s processing of the 2018 and 2019 matches, participating municipalities will receive direct financial benefits from these efforts. Westchester County remains committed to exploring new opportunities to expand shared services and reduce costs, ensuring that local governments continue operating efficiently and effectively.