A Seasoned Financial Expert and Community Volunteer Steps Up to Serve as Scarsdale Village Trustee

On Tuesday March 18, 2025, Scarsdale will elect a Mayor and three Village Trustees. Scarsdale resident Jason Kofman was selected by the Citizens Nominating Committee for the position of Village Trustee on their slate of candidates. Kofman has strong professional skills and volunteer experience that should serve him well in serving the community.

See below for his biographical information, professional experience and volunteer positions and his rationale for stepping up now.

How long have you lived in Scarsdale? What brought you here and what do you like about it?

This year marks our 12th in Scarsdale, a community my wife, Kathleen Dunlop, and I chose for its outstanding schools, beautiful green spaces, and welcoming atmosphere. My connection to Scarsdale runs even deeper—my cousins have lived here since 1973, and I grew up visiting them, a tradition that continued into my years living in New York City. From the start, Scarsdale felt like the perfect place to raise our family, and over time it has truly become home. Kathleen and I love being part of this community and it has been an incredible place for our children to grow. Our three kids—Sam, a first-year student at Oberlin College, and Zoe and Nate, now in 10th and 9th grade at Scarsdale High School—have thrived here.

What do you do professionally and how might your skills assist the Board?

I retired a year and half ago to start a second career focused on volunteering and community service. I worked for 30 years at three world-class companies: Goldman Sachs, Oliver Wyman, and Moody’s. In my last role at Moody’s I led a group of 140 people managing operations and strategy for part of the business. As part of the job I led complex projects, reorganizations, and integrations. My experience in group leadership, financial management, project oversight, and strategic decision-making prepared me for the role of Trustee. I understand how to work through challenges, make data-driven decisions, and collaborate with stakeholders—skills that are critical for ensuring effective governance in Scarsdale.

Have you done any previous volunteer work – tell us about it.

Yes, I have been actively involved in several local organizations, starting as a rec softball coach which led to other initiatives:

● Crane Berkley Neighborhood Association: Served on the board for many years, mostly as Treasurer, where I improved our financial management processes.

● Scarsdale Travel Softball: Served on the board for four years, nearly all as Treasurer, where I upgraded financial controls, re-established our non-profit status, and set up a new corporate entity.

● Scarsdale Conservation Advisory Council (CAC): Led the effort for Scarsdale to participate in New York’s Clean Energy Communities program, securing multiple grants for the Village. These are being invested in electric vehicles and other sustainability-linked initiatives.

● Second Chance Foods: I serve as President of the board for this high-performing non-profit organization fighting food waste and food insecurity. In 2024 we rescued over 350,000 pounds of food and delivered over 100,000 meals to those who are hungry.

● Westchester PFLAG: I have attended meetings for four years, initially for personal support and now I attend to provide support to other parents of LGBTQ+ families.

Why did you decide to step up for service on the Board now?

When I retired from my corporate career in mid-2023, it was with the intent of dedicating my time and energy to community service. My involvement with the CAC, Second Chance Foods, and other organizations has been rewarding, but I believe I can contribute even more as a Trustee. I have the time, motivation and experience necessary to make an impact for our village.

In your view, what are some of the challenges that face the Village today?

The Village faces several decisions in the short term that will affect generations of future Scarsdale families. With a $70 million annual budget, it is critical to ensure that funds are allocated effectively for the coming year and for long-term community benefit. There are multiple large-scale capital projects being considered, such as the potential pool renovation, playing field upgrades, and the sanitary sewer system refurbishment. In addition, there are ongoing programs such as street repaving, municipal fleet replacement and Freightway garage repairs which also take up significant financial and planning resources. We have to figure out how to maintain the high level of performance and service provision that residents deserve in a fiscally responsible way.

What are you looking forward to working on?

All of it really. I am keen to help drive successful execution on our major capital projects, to explore ways that the Village can extend its recognized leadership in sustainability and conservation, to provide oversight over the operating budget to ensure that our tax dollars are invested for the benefit of our community, to engage with community members to understand peoples’ priorities, and to make thoughtful, well-reasoned decisions on behalf of all Scarsdalians.

Anything else you wish to add is welcome.

Serving as a Trustee is not an entry-level role—it requires leadership, financial acumen, and strategic thinking. My career, combined with my volunteer work, has equipped me with the skills to serve effectively in this role. I am committed to listening, learning, and working collaboratively to ensure that Scarsdale continues to thrive.

Remember to vote in the Village election on Tuesday March 18 from 6 am to 9 pm at Scarsdale Village Hall.