Six towns, one standard

District 2 is not one place. It is Bedford’s hamlets, Lewisboro’s lakes, Mount Kisco’s Main Street, North Salem’s farms, Pound Ridge’s open spaces, and Somers’ neighborhoods. Each community has its own character, history, and priorities. Anyone seeking to represent this district must recognize and respect those differences.

That is why I am running for Westchester County Legislator.

My top priority is simple: keep decisions local. Zoning, community planning, school culture, and neighborhood identity should be shaped by the people who live there, not by distant officials in White Plains or Albany. Local governments understand their communities best, and county government should support local decision-making, not override it.

Preserving our quality of life starts with protecting what makes our towns special. We should maintain and restore trails, invest in parks that families can use today, and improve roads where safety and traffic conditions warrant it. Practical improvements matter more than expensive projects that take years to deliver.

A strong local economy is essential to maintaining that quality of life. Small businesses are the backbone of our communities. Empty storefronts hurt local employment, reduce economic activity, and weaken our tax base. While county government cannot set commercial rents, it can reduce unnecessary costs, encourage cooperation between landlords and business owners, and create an environment where small businesses can succeed.

Safe neighborhoods remain a priority. Public safety comes from strong local law enforcement, engaged communities, and accountability for those who break the law. It should not require turning our neighborhoods into surveillance zones. I oppose Flock- style license plate reader systems and similar technologies that collect data on law- abiding residents. We can support public safety while protecting personal privacy.

Fiscal responsibility makes all of these priorities possible. Families in District 2 work hard for their money and expect government to do the same. I will review county spending with a simple question: What is the return for taxpayers? After more than 30 years in business leadership, I know that accountability matters. Government should be held to the same standard.

Why should you vote for me? Because I live here, raised my family here, and understand the challenges facing our communities. I am committed to local control, responsible spending, safe neighborhoods, and preserving the character of Bedford, Lewisboro, Mount Kisco, North Salem, Pound Ridge and Somers.

A competitive District 2 benefits everyone, regardless of political party. It encourages accountability and ensures that county government remains focused on the people it serves.

I am Jozef “Joe” Vala, and I am asking for your vote for Westchester County Legislator, District 2. Together, we can protect our communities, strengthen our local economy, and keep northern Westchester a great place to live, work and raise a family.

Learn more at votevalawestchester.com.

Jozef “Joe” Vala is running for Westchester County Legislator's District 2.