Board Honors Richard Wishnie for 50 Years of Public Service

On Monday night, legislators unanimously confirmed Joan McDonald’s appointment as Westchester Deputy County Executive and honored her predecessor, Richard Wishnie, who retired in January after more than 50 years of exceptional service to the people of Westchester County.

Board Chairman Vedat Gashi appointed Wishnie as Acting Westchester County Executive in January 2025, a temporary post that set the foundation for his role as Deputy County Executive. Wishnie had previously served as Commissioner of the Westchester County Department of Emergency Services.

Earlier in his career, Wishnie was elected to six terms on the Westchester County Board of Legislators, starting in 1993, when he represented the Town of Ossining, the Villages of Briarcliff Manor, Ossining, and Croton-on-Hudson, as well as portions of the Town of Cortlandt. Prior to his work on the County level, Wishnie served the Town of Ossining as Councilman and Supervisor, Director of the Ossining Chamber of Commerce, and President of the Ossining Jaycees.

Chairman Vedat Gashi (D–New Castle, Ossining, Somers, Yorktown) said, “Richard has been a friend and mentor for many years. It was my honor to designate him as our first-ever Acting County Executive a year ago and a privilege to work alongside him. We wish Richard and his wife Marilyn a happy and healthy retirement.”

Richard Wishnie said, “I am truly honored to be recognized by the Westchester County Board of Legislators for my public service career. As a former 12-year member of the Board, I have deep respect and admiration for the legislators who represent the interests of the million people who call Westchester home. It is a significant responsibility that requires commitment, professionalism, and dedication. I thank them for their service and sincerely appreciate this recognition.”

Watch the full meeting here when it becomes available.