A controversy has erupted regarding Rep. Latimer’s appointment of Ellen Hendrickx, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest.

Some local Republicans are calling for Hendrickx to step down from her town role, claiming her new federal job could create conflicts. They argue that holding both positions might violate the Hatch Act, which restricts certain federal employees from engaging in partisan politics. However, a spokesperson for the agency enforcing this law clarified that it only applies to executive branch employees, not those working for Congress.
Town Supervisor Paul Feiner congratulated Hendrickx on LinkedIn, encouraging her to help secure more federal funding for Greenburgh. But during a recent Town Council meeting, Hendrickx seemed uneasy when Feiner mentioned the need for federal funds for pedestrian safety. She quickly shut down the conversation, insisting it wasn’t her responsibility.
Critics like attorney Gary Rappaport have voiced concerns about the potential for power consolidation and the risk of losing public trust due to her dual roles. Hendrickx has a long history with Latimer, having worked for him during his time as Westchester County executive.
Despite the backlash, she hasn’t publicly addressed her critics or clarified why discussing federal funding at a town meeting was inappropriate. As for her future, she hasn’t indicated whether she’ll run for another term in 2025.
Latimer’s chief of staff reassured that Hendrickx will follow federal law, which allows her to hold both positions. Feiner mentioned that Hendrickx told him she wouldn’t use her federal role to benefit the town, but he remains hopeful for federal funding, with or without her help.
One local resident, Christopher Linder, was so concerned about the situation that he filed a complaint regarding the Hatch Act. However, the Office of Special Counsel confirmed that the Hatch Act doesn’t apply to legislative branch employees like Hendrickx. So, the debate continues as the community watches how this unfolds.