Despite Thursday evening’s wind and heavy rain, an impressive number of residents gathered in Pomona for the return of State Senator Bill Weber’s popular Chill With Bill series, kicking off the first of many such events planned throughout Rockland County. 

Hosted by Amir Benisti and Avi Hirsch, the informal gathering gave residents the opportunity to speak directly with Senator Weber, ask questions, raise concerns, and engage in candid conversations about the future of Rockland County and New York State.

The remarkably strong turnout indicates residents’ interest in meeting Senator Weber firsthand, showing their support, and sharing their concerns. The response demonstrated that Senator Weber has his finger on the pulse of his constituents and understands the value of bringing government and public service directly to the people. 

Rather than speeches from a distant podium, Chill With Bill is centered on accessibility, open conversation, and the opportunity to build relationships that develop when residents have direct access to the person representing them. 

“You have to dig deep into what people are concerned about, make relationships and friendships, and build trust and rapport,” Senator 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.”

For Senator Weber, that accessibility is an essential part of representing Rockland, particularly when residents may not always agree with every position taken by their elected officials.

“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,” Senator Weber said. “That’s the work that needs to continue.”

The wide-ranging conversation included both state and local concerns, as well as the importance of making sure residents understand what their elected representatives are doing on their behalf. During the evening, Senator Weber stressed that open communication is particularly important in an environment where political claims can easily create confusion about an elected official’s actual record.

The conversation also turned to the importance of the upcoming election and maintaining strong representation for Rockland at both the state and federal levels. Senator Weber discussed his relationship with Congressman Mike Lawler and pointed to their shared focus on accessibility, constituent service, results, and a willingness to cross party lines when it benefits the people they represent.

“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,” Senator 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.”

Senator Weber also thanked those who have supported his reelection campaign and noted that the campaign is entering the race in a strong financial position, having reached the maximum amount of public matching funds permitted under New York’s campaign finance system.

“We are financially set for this race and have maxed out on the matching funds allowed under the system,” Senator Weber said. “I am forever grateful for the support our campaign has received. That financial support is critical because it allows us to get our message out to voters and talk about the state and local concerns that directly affect our communities.”

The Pomona gathering is only the beginning. Additional Chill With Bill events are being planned throughout Rockland County, including stops in villages and communities across the district, giving more residents the opportunity to participate.

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