Westchester County has been named the #1 Digital County in the U.S. among mid-sized counties by the 2025 Digital Counties Survey Awards.
The awards recognize excellence in digital innovation and technology-driven public service.
“This recognition is a proud moment for Westchester County,” said County Executive Ken Jenkins. “It reflects our dedication to digital innovation and to making government more accessible, efficient, and responsive for everyone we serve.”
The annual survey is done by the Center for Digital Government and National Association of Counties.
Westchester came out on top among counties with populations from 500,000 to 999,999, beating out competitors like Snohomish County, Washington, Washoe County, Nevada, and Polk County, Florida.
Legislative chair: award about ‘putting people first’
Westchester was selected because of its leadership in areas like cybersecurity, transparency and the modernization of public services.
Board of Legislators Chairman Vedat Gashi (D-New Castle, Ossining, Somers, Yorktown) said the honor represents a broader commitment to serving residents through ethical innovation.
“Westchester residents deserve the very best, and that’s exactly what they’re getting,” Gashi said. “This national recognition is about more than technology; it’s about values and putting people first.”
Westchester Department of Information Technology gets credit
The County’s Department of Information Technology played a key role in achieving this milestone.
Chief Information Officer Marguerite Beirne said the recognition shows government-wide support.
“Together, we are committed to using technology to create a more connected, secure, and efficient government for everyone in our community,” she said.
Legislation shows Westchester’s digital policy leadership
Recent legislation underscored the county’s digital leadership. Earlier this year, lawmakers passed a bill banning the malicious use of deep fakes, AI-generated content impersonating a person’s voice or likeness.
Legislator Judah Holstein (D-Eastchester, New Rochelle, Tuckahoe), who co-authored the bill with the District Attorney’s Office and county Law Department, said the County’s top ranking affirms its approach to innovation.
“Westchester’s national ranking is a testament to how smart, secure, and resident-focused innovation can transform government,” Holstein said. “It’s about how we use technology to improve lives, deliver savings, and make County government work better for everyone.”
Jenkins said Westchester is committed to staying at the forefront of digital transformation.
“We’re championing new technologies and approaches that will help Westchester remain competitive and prepared for the future,” he said.
This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Westchester named #1 mid-sized county in U.S. for digital innovation, tech-driven service
Reporting by Michelle Grisales, Rockland/Westchester Journal News / Rockland/Westchester Journal News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
