Greetings for the New Year from Scarsdale's Leaders

We made it to the end of another year in Scarsdale. As we say goodbye to 2025 and greet 2026, we asked our community leaders for their hopes for the coming year. Here are comments from Mayor Justin Arest, Deputy Mayor Dara Gruenberg and the Scarsdale School Board.

Share your holiday hopes below.

Mayor Justin Arest:

As we commemorate Scarsdale’s 325th anniversary alongside our nation’s 250th, I look ahead to a year of tangible progress rooted in our shared commitment to stewarding the Village for future generations.

My hope is that we remain focused on the foundations that keep us strong: prioritizing public safety, breaking ground on our pool complex and fields, and continuing to invest in vital infrastructure. We also have a unique opportunity to look beyond traditional projects to identify ways to grow our revenue base. By engaging in a Mayor Justin Arestthoughtful community dialogue to envision the future of the Freightway site, we can explore how to transform a challenge into a sustainable asset that benefits both the Village and our schools.

Working together does not mean uniformity; it means shared purpose. When we approach our goals with respect, transparency, and a willingness to listen, we continue to make progress on the issues that matter most. By honoring the enduring spirit of Scarsdale, 2026 can demonstrate that a community grounded in service and cooperation is capable of achieving great things while preserving what makes our Village so special.

I wish everyone a happy and, most importantly, healthy 2026.

Deputy Mayor Dara Gruenberg:

Deputy Mayor Dara Gruenberg My hope for the new year is that we embrace what unites us and lead with empathy and kindness. In doing so, we create a community that is stronger, more connected, and more compassionate, recognizing the unseen challenges people carry. Let Scarsdale stand as an example of how collaboration and respect can guide a community forward in 2026.

Scarsdale School Board:

Dear Members of Our Community,

As we welcome the New Year, the Board of Education extends our warmest wishes to our students, families, educators, staff, and community members. A new year brings renewed hope, fresh opportunities, and a shared commitment to learning, growth, and success.

We are grateful for the dedication, resilience, and partnership that define our school community. Together, we continue to support academic excellence, student well-being, and an inclusive environment where every learner is valued and encouraged to reach their full potential.

We are excited for the opportunities the New Year will bring and confident that, working together, we will continue to build a strong and supportive educational system.

Thank you for your continued trust and support. We wish you and your families a happy, healthy, and successful New Year.

With appreciation,
The Board of Education
Jim Dugan, President
Colleen Brown, Vice President
Amber Yusuf
Suzie Hahn
Leah Dembitzer
Robert Klein
Laura Liu

The Scarsdale Board of Education 2025-26

NYS Assemblywoman Amy Paulin:

I am grateful that the Governor is signing my Medical Aid in Dying legislation in 2026, and predict it will give suffering families peace of mind during their most vulnerable time. I also predict that the $7 billion in federal budget cuts to New York State's health institutions will negatively impact many residents' healthcare, but I am committed to fighting for creative solutions to protect the quality of our healthcare system. On a personal note, I am thrilled that my daughter is engaged and will be married in 2026 and wish her happiness and joy. I remain hopeful that the Mets will survive after losing Nimmo, Alonso and Diaz, and wish they would win a World Series in my lifetime.