Watch the News Conference Here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bUUZ_ZEsu0o
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins signed legislation that solidifies the County’s commitment to challenging Con Edison’s proposed utility rate increases. This action follows a unanimous, bipartisan vote by the Westchester County Board of Legislators to join the major rate case in New York State.
Jenkins said: “We are taking a strong stand today to protect our residents from unreasonable utility rate hikes. This legislation ensures that Westchester County will have a powerful voice in the rate case proceedings, advocating for working families, seniors, and small businesses who would be disproportionately affected by the proposed hikes.”
Board Chairman Vedat Gashi said: “Thank you to County Executive Ken Jenkins for signing this act, that we passed unanimously last night, so that together, so that we can demand fair, transparent utility pricing for the people of Westchester. When families are forced to choose between paying utility bills and other essentials, we have a responsibility to intervene and fight for fairness.”
Minority Leader Margaret A. Cunzio said: “Con Edison’s recent request for authorization to increase gas and electric rates by double digits is a huge financial burden for Westchester residents. With the County Executive Ken Jenkins signing this BOL legislation to become a party in this rate case shows our commitment to all of our constituents as we continue to work together to make Westchester work.”
Legislator Colin D. Smith Chair of the Board’s Legislation Committee said: “I am honored to join County Executive Jenkins and my fellow colleagues in taking a stand in the rate case. The hardworking families and small businesses of Westchester County deserve utility rates that are fair, affordable and accessible. I will continue to advocate and fight for the best interests of my constituents and the County as a whole, doing everything within my power to support them.”
Legislator David T. Imamura said: “Thank you County Executive Jenkins for ensuring Westchester has its day in court. Working people in the County deserve to have the chance to lower our energy rates. All people want is to be able to afford keeping the lights on and their homes warm and we are taking action to ensure that.”
Assistant Director of Energy Conservation and Sustainability Elijah Reichlin-Melnick has been designated as the County’s Intervenor for the Con Edison rate increase proceedings. Jenkins emphasized the importance of ensuring that Westchester County’s concerns are heard loud and clear during these proceedings.
Jenkins said: “The County’s participation guarantees that local voices—those of residents and business owners alike—will be amplified.”
While acknowledging the need for reliable energy and infrastructure improvements, Jenkins strongly condemned the passing of excessive costs onto consumers, especially without transparency and accountability.
In addition to signing the legislation, Jenkins announced that he will be participating in the Public Service Commission’s online hearing in early April. He also called for Con Edison to hold an in-person hearing in Westchester County, giving residents and business owners the opportunity to directly voice their concerns and get the answers they deserve.
Jenkins said: “If Con Edison truly believes this rate hike is justified, they should face the public and explain their reasoning.”