Westchester County Communications Director Catherine Cioffi has issued a strong statement regarding the condition of Playland, a recreational facility in the county. In her remarks, Cioffi criticized the previous contract made with Standard Amusements under Christine Sculti and then-County Executive Rob Astorino’s administration.
“We all agree — the state Standard Amusements left Playland in is absolutely heartbreaking, and it’s the direct result of the sweetheart deal Christine Sculti struck with Standard Amusements when she and then-County Executive Rob Astorino were desperately trying to unload public treasures at the expense of our County’s most cherished residents — our children,” she stated.
Cioffi highlighted the nostalgic value of Playland, emphasizing its importance to the community. “We all grew up going to Playland. Instead of protecting it, Christine Sculti handed us a disastrous, one-sided deal that sold out taxpayers and left the County holding the bag — having to return 100% of Standard Amusements’ investment. That’s why County Executive Ken Jenkins voted against this agreement in 2016 when he was on the Board of Legislators.”
The statement further addressed the financial impact of the agreement on Westchester taxpayers, revealing a significant discrepancy in the expected financial burden. “We fought to get out of this deal after determining the real cost to Westchester taxpayers was not $30 million but $125 million — and yes, now we’re all paying the price,” said Cioffi.
Her closing comments criticized the qualifications and actions of those involved in the agreement. “This is exactly what happens when someone with a radical ideology, no real experience, no financial skill, and no understanding of how budgets and contracts are built seeks an executive position.”
