By a slim 9-8 margin, the Westchester Board of Legislators approved a $1.8 billion budget for 2010 with a tax increase of 2.9%.

Exiting County Executive Andrew Spano had proposed a spending plan with a 4.9% tax hike but legislators scrutinized every department in an effort to reduce spending and lower the tax burden on residents.

The split vote was a result of some legislators maintaining more consolidation and reductions could have been accomplished. Others insisted reducing the budget any further would have jeopardized many vital programs and services.

Meanwhile, the Board of Legislators will have new leadership in 2010 as Ken Jenkins (D/Yonkers) was selected as the new chairman, replacing William Ryan (D/White Plains). In addition, Lyndon Williams (D/Mount Vernon) was chosen as vice chairman, succeeding Michael Kaplowitz (D/Somers), and Tom Abinanti (D/Greenburgh) is the new majority leader, taking over from Martin Rogowsky (D/Rye).

Astorino Team

Newly elected County Executive Rob Astorino has assembled his executive team, starting with naming Tarrytown resident Kevin Plunkett as deputy county executive. Plunkett headed Astorino’s transition team.

Mount Pleasant Supervisor Robert Meehan was tapped as county attorney, Legislator George Oros was named chief of staff and Edwin “Ned” McCormack of Greenburgh was appointed communications director.