Acquisition and Contract Board meetings are now being videotaped and shown online. This is another initiative in County Executive Robert P. Astorino’s campaign to make the workings of county government as transparent as possible to residents.

"During my campaign, I made a pledge that I would not only seek to reduce the cost of government, but that I would also shine a light on exactly how the public's hard-earned tax dollars are being spent," Astorino said. "Making video of the Acquisition and Contract Board meetings available to the public and allowing residents to view discussions taking place at the committee table is another step toward transparency of government."

In October 2011, Astorino launched a new section of the county’s Web site devoted to opening up government to the people. Entitled “A More Transparent Government,” the page provides links to various transparency initiatives, including the ability to view online for the first time the Acquisition and Contracts Board agendas and meeting minutes as well as county contracts. A link to meeting videos has been added to this section of the site.

The Board of Acquisition and Contract has the responsibility of approving various county contracts and agreements as required by the Westchester County Charter. The board consists of the county executive, the Board of Legislators chairman and the Department of Public Works and Transportation commissioner.

The board meets weekly, usually Thursday mornings, on the 9th floor of the Michaelian County Office Building, 148 Martine Ave., White Plains. Meetings are open to the public.  The next step will be to stream the meetings live.