One day before a court ordered deadline that would have possibly triggered a long and costly trial, the Westchester County Board of Legislators last month approved a so-called landmark agreement between the county and federal government that mandates 750 “fair and affordable” housing units be built by 2016.

Since the controversial settlement also carried with it the approval of a $36 million bond act, a super majority (at least 12 out of 17 votes) was needed. The vote, 12-5, took place at approximately 1:15 a.m. on September 23 following a five-hour debate.

Among the 12 Democrats that supported the settlement was retiring Legislator Lois Bronz (D/Greenburgh).

“We, at the county level, have a challenge and an opportunity. We are challenged to make the perfect solution. There is no such thing,” Bronz said. “Safe, affordable housing is not a privilege, it’s a right. It (housing settlement) helps us put our moral compass where it belongs.”

Legislator Thomas Abinanti (D/Greenburgh) joined Majority Leader Martin Rogowsky (D/Rye) and Republicans George Oros (Cortlandt), Jim Maisano (New Rochelle) and Gordon A. Burrows in opposing the deal.

“I don’t know where this is leading us,” Abinanti said. “There are too many holes. I’m concerned it’s doomed to failure on it terms. I’m concerned Westchester County will be the magnet for affordable housing.”

The settlement targets municipalities in the county with less than three percent African American residents and seven percent Hispanic residents, such as the Village of Irvington. However, the county is prohibited from reserving housing units just for minorities.

If the settlement was not approved, lawmakers were advised by county attorneys going to trial and losing the case could have cost the county more than $300 million.

“This housing settlement has no tax implications and will create fair and affordable housing that is sorely needed in Westchester,” County Executive Andrew Spano said.