Westchester County Department of Environmental Facilities Announces New Appointments

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’s Recycling Office, focusing on public outreach and education initiatives, while Bush will oversee construction and fleet management operations within the Department.

Jenkins said: “These 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.”

Department of Environmental Facilities Commissioner Vincent Kopicki said: “We 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.”

Department of Environmental Facilities First Deputy Commissioner Louis Vetrone said: “Both 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.”

Department of Environmental Facilities Deputy Commissioner Damani L. Bush said: “I’m 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’s broader mission.”

Department of Environmental Facilities Assistant to the Commissioner Catherine Parker said: “I 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 – to do everything in my power to leave them a better environment.”

Catherine Parker is a former Westchester County Legislator and Rye City Councilmember with a record of advancing environmental policy at the local level. During her time in office, she led initiatives that strengthened the County’s sustainability framework, including legislation establishing an Energy Director and Office of Sustainability. She also supported efforts to electrify the County’s fleet and championed measures to phase out No. 4 and No. 6 heating oil, improving air quality and public health outcomes. In her new role, Parker will focus on increasing awareness of recycling programs and supporting the County’s waste reduction efforts.

Damani L. Bush brings more than 17 years of experience in municipal government, most recently serving as Commissioner of Public Works for the City of Mount Vernon. In that role, he managed a workforce of more than 175 employees and oversaw a budget exceeding $20 million. He led major infrastructure initiatives, including securing more than $163 million in funding for sewer and storm water improvements and administering over $30 million in state and federal grants. Bush also directed a citywide roadway resurfacing program that improved more than 350 streets. His work has been recognized by national and international organizations, and he has received honors, including being named a 40 Under 40 Rising Star by the Business Council of Westchester.

Westchester County continues to invest in environmental programs, infrastructure and public education efforts to support sustainability and improve residents' quality of life. The addition of Parker and Bush reflects the County’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its environmental programs and advancing its advancing its sustainability goals.