Despite heavy rain and strong winds Thursday evening, residents gathered in Pomona for the return of State Senator Bill Weber’s “Chill With Bill” series, the first of several events expected to be held throughout Rockland County.

Hosted by Amir Benisti and Avi Hirsch, the informal gathering gave residents an opportunity to speak directly with Weber, ask questions and discuss state and local issues affecting the community.

Weber said the events are intended to give constituents direct access to their elected representative while helping build relationships and trust.

“You have to dig deep into what people are concerned about, make relationships and friendships, and build trust and rapport,” Weber said. “That’s what these events are about. We can talk about the important issues, or any issue someone wants to discuss, communicate with one another, and move the football forward.”

Weber also emphasized the importance of working with residents across the political spectrum.

“You may not agree with me 100 percent of the time, but I try to build relationships with both sides to create good legislation and get things done,” he said.

The discussion touched on a range of state and local concerns, along with the upcoming election and Rockland County’s representation in Albany and Washington. Weber also spoke about his working relationship with Congressman Mike Lawler, citing their shared focus on constituent services, accessibility and bipartisan cooperation.

“Mike Lawler and I are both approachable, results-driven, and not afraid to cross party lines because we are in tune with what our constituents want,” Weber said. “We care about this county, and we understand how important it is to have people representing this region who will fight for it.”

Weber also discussed his reelection campaign, saying it has reached the maximum amount of public matching funds permitted under New York’s campaign finance system and thanking supporters for their financial backing.

Additional “Chill With Bill” gatherings are being planned in communities across Rockland County as Weber continues the series throughout the district.

“It’s very important that we continue Chill With Bill throughout the district,” Weber said. “We need to keep going directly to the people, listening to what they have to say, and building those relationships.”