Westchester Reporter

Westchester County has initiated arbitration proceedings against Standard Amusements, LLC. The move follows an alleged wrongful attempt by Standard Amusements to terminate the Playland Management Agreement (PMA). Kathy O’Connor, Commissioner of the Westchester County Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation, has formally requested that Standard begin transitioning management duties to ensure Playland can open for the upcoming season.

The county's action aims to uphold contractual obligations. According to a statement from the county, "Standard Amusements has failed to meet its responsibilities, and we are taking action to protect the interests of Westchester residents."

Westchester County asserts it met a 70% threshold requirement before Standard's termination attempt and claims that Standard did not follow proper notice provisions in the PMA. The agreement mandates that Standard continue managing Playland until disputes are resolved. By refusing to operate Playland for the 2025 season, Westchester alleges this constitutes a breach of contract and an Event of Default under Section 23B(ii) of the PMA.

Despite initiating arbitration over this dispute, Westchester County remains committed to ensuring a smooth transition of Playland’s management back under county control.