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District 10 Update: February 26, 2026

This week I attended the National Association of Counties (NACo) conference in Washington, DC, alongside thousands of county leaders from across the country.

During sessions on economic development, cybersecurity, and fiscal policy, one message came through clearly, regardless of party: federal funding is likely to shrink, and local governments must prepare now. A session titled "The Federal Fiscal Cliff Ahead" outlined the discretionary programs counties rely on, the mandates we must meet, and the structural pressures ahead.

There was some discussion about Social Security. While the trust fund faces long-term strain, federal law still requires benefits to be paid, and ongoing payroll taxes continue to fund the program. That means Congress will have to act to address the gap, but the obligation itself does not simply disappear, even if the trust fund gets depleted.

The same is not true for programs like Medicaid and SNAP, which depend on annual federal appropriations and matching formulas that can be adjusted through the budget process. For counties that help administer Medicaid and other safety-net services, those shifts already have very real local consequences.

I also heard a sobering warning from a major credit rating executive: jurisdictions that fail to plan for climate resilience and disaster preparedness should expect to face rating downgrades. Lower ratings mean higher borrowing costs, which directly impact taxpayers and our ability to fund infrastructure and essential services.

These conversations reinforced something I take seriously as Majority Leader: we must plan ahead, protect our fiscal stability, and ensure Westchester is prepared for what's coming, not reacting after the fact. The strong team serving you in County government will work closely with our partners at every level of government to do everything possible to ensure that Westchester residents' critical needs are met.

Please check out my weekly update below, which includes information on the following:
  • District 10 Events
  • Join Us for the Next Board of Legislators Meeting
  • Protect Your SNAP: New Federal Work Rules & Eligibility Requirements Take Effect March 1
  • What's Happening in Our Parks
Thank you for taking the time to read my newsletter!

Sincerely,

Judah Holstein
Majority Leader, 10th District Legislator ​​
DISTRICT 10 EVENTS

February 27 to March 27 New Rochelle-Winter Fun Fridays

Colorful graphic reading 'Winter Fun Fridays' with a snowflake icon and event details.The weather outside is STILL frightful, but what Parks & Rec has in store is sure to warm up your spirits! Join us for Winter Fun Fridays, a series of fun events for kids grades K-6th at Downtown REC, including:
  • February 27, 5-7 PM: Movie and Popcorn
  • March 27, 5-7 PM: Music and Board Games
To register, contact Lisa Flowers at lflowers@newrochelleny.gov.
Illustration of smiling children jumping with the words 'Summer Camp.'March 3-4-New Rochelle-SUMMER CAMP INFO SESSIONS

Dreaming of summer while winter drags on? Join one of two upcoming info sessions on March 3 and March 4 from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm. 
 
White Bee-Line bus parked along a roadway with destination sign visible.STAY UP TO DATE WITH THE BEE-LINE BUS SYSTEM
Join Us for the Next Board of Legislators Meeting

Please join us on Monday, March 2nd before our regular board meeting for our annual celebration of Irish American Heritage Month, streaming live from the BOL Chamber at 7 PM.  We are proud to recognize two exemplary honorees, Sandra Feeney-Charles, Executive Director of the Aisling Irish Community & Cultural Center and Pauline M. Galvin, Chairwoman of the City of Yonkers Planning Board.

Learn how to watch or participate here.
 
Flyer announcing Irish American Heritage Month celebration by the Westchester County Board of Legislators on March 2, 2026, featuring honorees Sandra Feeney-Charles and Pauline M. Galvin.
Protect Your SNAP: New Federal Work Rules & Eligibility Requirements Take Effect March 1

Federal work requirements, age limits, and exemptions are changing for SNAP recipients and applicants ages 18–64 who are able to work and do not live with dependent children under age 14.

Learn what's changing and what you need to do to remain eligible here.
 
Protect Your SNAP! Graphic announcing new federal work rules and eligibility requirements taking effect March 1, with food items shown.
Winter-themed graphic with a green leaf surrounded by white snowflakes.What's Happening in Our Parks

Westchester County Parks has a full calendar of winter activities, programs, and events for residents of all ages. Find opportunities to get outside, stay active, and enjoy our parks this season. Learn More

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