Legislature Overrides County Executive's Veto of Redistricting Plan

The Westchester County Board of Legislators overrode the redistricting plan last night.

The Legislation Committee, chaired by District 3 legislator John Nonna (D-Mount Pleasant), voted along party lines in yesterday's vote, passing the measure 12-5.

According to a statement released by the county today, Chairman Ken Jenkins said the plan, formulated by consultant Dr. Andrew Beveridge, has received little objection.

"If the County Executive really thinks the redistricting is flawed, then he should step forward and explain to the taxpayers what he would do otherwise. As is, this is a fair plan for all of Westchester's residents," he said.

The plan affects 4 percent of the county's population.

Under the plan, Peekskill, which has historically been in one district, would be split into two. The district would be divided between districts 1 and 9, instead of only being under 1. Sleepy Hollow would also see a change, with part of it moving into Legislator John Nonna's District 3 (which includes Pleasantville, the portion of Briarcliff Manor in the Town of Mount Pleasant, North Castle and the Town of Mount Pleasant) and the remainder staying in District 8.

Astorino noted the “wholesale and unnecessary changes” made to some legislative districts, which also splits Harrison three ways.

“It will create confusion among voters and elected officials as to who speaks for these communities on the Board of Legislators,” he said in a statement after vetoing the measure, calling the plan "flawed" and "rushed."

The redistricting proposal was originally approved unanimously by the Legislation Committee, and later passed on the same 12-5 partisan line.

Nonna said he believes the plan addresses concerns raised by lawmakers, those who commented at public meetings and the League of Women Voters, who have objected to the process.

"I...hope that we can move forward with the electoral process now that we have voted the new redistricting plan into law," he said, stating he finds this plan to be "fair."

The new district map will go into effect on Jan. 1, 2012.

See attached video for footage of Nonna discussing the redistricting plan and process at the on Saturday, prior to Monday's vote.