CARMEL, NY – County Executive Kevin Byrne recently completed three more public forums in November and December, adding to dozens of similar community conversations Putnam County’s top elected official has hosted over the last three years. With his “Coffee with the County Executive” series of discussions, Byrne visited diners, bagel shops, and community markets in Brewster, Putnam Valley, and Patterson. Each hour-long-plus meeting was open to the public and free of charge. Coffee and other refreshments were not purchased at taxpayer expense. Participants did not RSVP and no questions were submitted for vetting beforehand.

“Coffee” is one of a number of themed and wide-ranging public question-and-answer sessions hosted by Byrne in 2025, including mini-State of the County presentations at every county-run senior center, “Trailblazing with Byrne” nature walks, and “Talking in the Library,” a public discussion at every Putnam County Libraries Association-affiliated institution in the community. Events were recorded and archived on the county’s YouTube page for viewing. Byrne has a similar schedule of public unscripted conversations planned for 2026, with announcements expected early next year.

 “This Administration prides itself on being the most transparent in Putnam County history. As part of that commitment to accountability, we’ll continue to sponsor ‘Coffee with the County Executive’ and other unscripted opportunities for residents to engage with their local government and ask questions,” said Byrne. “When leaders lead by listening, everyone benefits from the open dialogue and free exchange of ideas. I look forward to continuing these community conversations with our residents in 2026.”