Longtime Westchester legislator John Testa to call it quits

Westchester County Legislator John G. Testa, who has never lost a political election, announced this morning that he will not run for re-election. Testa began his career in politics when he was elected a councilman in Peekskill in 1997.

He served three terms as Peekskill”™s mayor before running for county office. The Republican lawmaker who represents District 1, is now finishing his fifth term as county legislator. While serving in Peekskill, he also was a teacher at the city”™s high school. He retired from teaching in 2013 after 33 years.

“Although I am leaving public service I intend to remain active and continue to contribute to my community,” Testa said in a statement. “I will now have more time to dedicate to the Lincoln Depot Museum and emerging business responsibilities. More opportunity to travel, read and learn is very attractive to me. Most importantly, I look forward to more time with my family and being a soon-to-be grandfather.”

In addition, he said, “My record of fiscal responsibility is one I am very proud of. I wanted to also elevate the standing of northern Westchester communities in county government and bring the appropriate resources and infrastructure improvements we deserve. I was particularly pleased to bring an office to Peekskill that provides free legal services for eligible northern Westchester veterans, seniors and victims of domestic violence.”