County Legislator Judah Holstein

I originally planned to skip my personal eNews message this week since I am spending time out of town with my family celebrating Rosh Hashanah. But something happened while I was away that has changed my mind. As I was browsing social media, I noticed a friend posting hateful rhetoric on his wall. In this particular case, the content was focused on Zionism, but it echoed the same kind of language I have seen directed at other groups. The thing that struck me about this post was that it was an example of how coarse, mean-spirited, and simplistic too much of our political dialogue has become.  Here is how I responded, and I wanted to share it with you: You've heard the lines. "They're killing children." "They're eating cats and dogs." "They're taking our jobs." "They're all criminals, gang members, drug dealers, cartel operatives." It doesn't matter if someone came here legally ...

The past two weeks have been a whirlwind of activity, and I'm excited to share my updates with you. I began at the NYS Association of Counties conference in Niagara, where colleagues and I learned how counties across New York are preparing for challenges tied to HR 1 - the so-called "Big Beautiful Bill." County officials from both parties agree that the bill increases the burden on local governments and does not actually lead to more efficient government.  One area of immediate concern is the SNAP program (formerly food stamps), where new cost-sharing and recertification requirements will drive up county expenses as soon as October 1. Back home, I walked the runway at Style Across the Aisle, wearing fashion from Rex Bespoke of New Rochelle to benefit Witness to Mass Incarceration, an organization that helps people rebuild their lives after incarceration. I also joined commemorations of the 24th anniversary of 9/11 in Eastchester, New Rochelle, and at the coun...

As summer winds down, I hope you had the chance to enjoy time with family, friends, and neighbors, and perhaps even participate in some of the many wonderful events across District 10. We recognized our veterans with a moving ceremony at Rye Playland, came together for end-of-season community barbecues in New Rochelle and Tuckahoe, and enjoyed the final summer concerts in Eastchester and New Rochelle.    I'm proud of the diversity and spirit we share here in District 10. With children now back in school, vacations wrapping up, and Board committees already back at work, we're turning our attention to the important task of preparing for the upcoming budget season. ​​​​​ Please check out my weekly update below, which includes information on the following: District 10 Events Welcome Back to School Playland Park Extends Season Household Recycling Days Weekend Fun in Westchester Parks Thank you for taking the time to read my newsletter! ...