More than two dozen residents gathered at the Tomkins Cove Public Library on Feb. 7 for a “Coffee and Conversation” event hosted by Pete Harckham.
Despite frigid temperatures, attendees participated in an open discussion covering state and local issues, including infrastructure projects, housing affordability and healthcare funding.
“These events give people a chance to speak with us directly and ask questions about the work we’re doing, both in Albany and here in our local communities,” Harckham said in a statement. He thanked the library and its director, Kevin Mills, for hosting the event.
Among the topics discussed was a planned $6.5 million repaving project on Route 9W, expected to begin next year. Harckham said some work connected to the Champlain Hudson Power Express project would be shifted to nighttime hours in an effort to reduce disruptions and support local businesses.
Residents also raised concerns about rising utility bills and the need for expanded public transportation options in Rockland County. Affordable housing and stronger housing code enforcement were additional issues brought forward, along with calls for increased tenant protections.
Harckham addressed the recently enacted federal budget bill and its projected impact on New York State. According to his office, the state could lose an estimated $13.5 billion annually in healthcare funding due to Medicaid cuts, potentially affecting coverage for approximately 1.5 million residents. The projections also indicate possible hospital closures and job losses in the healthcare sector.
In response, Harckham pointed to ongoing efforts in the State Senate to support healthcare access and economic stability. He highlighted initiatives aimed at increasing funding for water infrastructure and energy efficiency programs. Participants discussed the growing use of residential heat pumps, protecting public employee retirement benefits and expanding naloxone training to address opioid overdoses.
The event began with a preview of the 2026 legislative session and discussion of the Executive FY2026-2027 Proposed State Budget. Harckham, who serves as chair of the Senate Environmental Conservation Committee, noted that school funding for the North Rockland Central School District has increased by $69.8 million since 2019. He also cited an additional $1 million in school aid secured annually over the past three years to help offset tax certiorari costs.
Since taking office in 2019, Harckham has held monthly “Coffee and Conversation” events throughout the district as a way to engage with constituents and gather feedback on state and local concerns.