What do we mean by “Rethinking Westchester Government?”

Rethinking is an independent, non-partisan organization comprised of citizens committed to finding more effective and efficient ways of delivering services to Westchester County residents.

We don't believe it should cost so much -- and we don't believe the current County government is working. It's broken. Our taxes are too high. Most of us can at least vote down our school budget. County government is HALF a tax bill that we as citizens can't control.

What we can do:

Start a Citizens' Budget Commission.

Vote on the County budget.

Limit or dissolve county government altogether.

Allow referendums on budget items, budget caps, departments, bonding and so much else we're never allowed to control.

Rethinking is studying those options and more; consolidation, redistribution of services, downsizing and replacing the county executive with a financial officer (someone who can count).

We have come together because we are concerned with the explosive growth of the Westchester County budget and the pressure it puts on the taxpayer. We are troubled with the excessive spending and outrageous waste Westchester Counties elected officials and staff have burdened us with.

We believe that honest, transparent government is the least that those privileged to serve the public in Westchester County should be providing to its residents, and we, the membership of Rethinking Westchester Government, are working towards that goal.

Please join us in finding the answer.