Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins and the Department of Environmental Facilities (DEF) announced the appointments of Catherine Parker as Assistant to the Commissioner and Damani L. Bush as Deputy Commissioner, adding experienced leadership in environmental policy, infrastructure operations and public service. Parker will work in the Refuse and Recycling Division鈥檚 Recycling Office, focusing on public outreach and education initiatives, while Bush will oversee construction and fleet management operations within the Department.
Jenkins said: 鈥淭hese appointments bring valuable experience and perspective to the Department of Environmental Facilities. Catherine Parker has a strong background in public service and community engagement, and Damani Bush brings hands-on operational leadership from his time in municipal government. Both will play an important role as we continue to strengthen our environmental programs and improve services for residents across Westchester.鈥�
Department of Environmental Facilities Commissioner Vincent Kopicki said: 鈥淲e are excited to welcome Catherine and Damani to the Department. Their experience will help advance our work across multiple areas, including public outreach and recycling education, as well as infrastructure and fleet operations. Strengthening our leadership team allows us to better support the programs and services our residents rely on.鈥�
Department of Environmental Facilities First Deputy Commissioner Louis Vetrone said: 鈥淏oth Catherine and Damani bring practical experience and a strong understanding of how local government operates. Their perspectives will help us continue improving our programs and finding new ways to connect with residents and deliver services effectively.鈥�
Department of Environmental Facilities Deputy Commissioner Damani L. Bush said: 鈥淚鈥檓 honored to join Westchester County and contribute to the important work being done here. I look forward to focusing on construction and fleet management while helping ensure operations run efficiently and effectively to support the Department鈥檚 broader mission.鈥�
Department of Environmental Facilities Assistant to the Commissioner Catherine Parker said: 鈥淚 am excited by this new chapter of my life that will allow me to continue serving the people of Westchester, and further fulfilling the promise that I made to my children long ago 鈥� to do everything in my power to leave them a better environment.鈥�