The Westchester County Board of Legislators has approved the SUNY Westchester Community College (WCC) 2025–26 budget which includes $158.8 million in total funding. The county will contribute $26.2 million, an increase of $350,000 from the amount the county appropriated last year. WCC’s 2025–26 fiscal year begins Sept. 1 and runs through August 31, 2026
The $158.8 million spending plan for the Valhalla-based institution includes $127.5 million for operating funds and $31.3 million in capital expenditures. In addition to the county’s share, funding will come from state aid of $30.5 million, student tuition of $51.9 million and other sources including investment interest income, money collected by various college departments and fund balance.
Board of Legislators Chairman Vedat Gashi said, “This budget represents our commitment to making quality higher education accessible and affordable for all Westchester residents. The increased funding will help WCC continue to provide excellent academic programs and student services, which keeping tuition costs manageable for families. It’s a smart investment that meets the college’s critical needs, maximizes value for taxpayers, and fuels opportunity, innovation, and workforce development across the region.”
The budget allocates funds for 571 full-time positions. The increase in the capital spending, up from $21.6 million last year is expected to help pay for facility upgrades and technology enhancements. The operating funds support academic programming, student advisors and guidance, and other campus services.
“The SUNY WCC community appreciates the support of the County Legislature for the college’s mission of ensuring accessible, high quality, and affordable education to meet the myriad needs of our dynamic and evolving student population,” WCC President Belinda Miles said in welcoming the budget approval. “By passing this budget, the county affirms its commitment to student success, academic excellence, workforce development, economic mobility, and lifelong learning.”
Legislator Jewel Williams Johnson who chairs the board’s Budget and Appropriations Committee, said that his district that includes Elmsford, Greenburgh, Tarrytown and White Plains has more students enrolled at WCC than does any other legislative district.
“With increased support for both operations and capital improvements, we are ensuring that WCC continues to grow, adapt, and serve as a vital educational and economic engine for Westchester County,” Johnson said.
WCC has about 13,000 students and offers more than 70 degree and certificate programs each year. The college offers transfer programs, career training, continuing education, and workforce development for students.
