Brewster, NY – New York State Senator Pete Harckham hosted a “Coffee and Conversation” gathering on Saturday, September 27, at the Brewster Public Library, where more than two dozen participants had an opportunity to ask questions and share ideas and opinions on a wide range of subjects.

“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,” said Senator Harckham. “Residents are looking for answers and support, and these conversations help us better understand their needs. A big thank you to the Brewster Public Library for hosting and welcoming everyone to this event.”

The topics discussed during the “Coffee and Conversation” included the recent repaving of Routes 22, 312 and 52, high utility bills, flood mitigation and resiliency improvements, Harckham’s recently signed legislation to expand the septic system replacement fund, and concerns about the presence of ICE agents in community spaces.

The event opened with Senator Harckham providing an overview of the 2025 legislative session and his ongoing work in the State Senate, where he serves as Chair of the Environmental Conservation Committee. He highlighted his efforts to increase school funding for the Brewster Central School District, which has grown by $15.7 million or 75% since he took office in 2019. Overall, Senate District 40 has received $252 million in additional school aid during this time.

Senator Harckham also addressed the recently enacted federal budget bill and its projected negative impact on New York. The state is expected to lose an estimated $13.5 billion annually in healthcare funding due to Medicaid cuts, potentially leaving 1.5 million New Yorkers uninsured, which would more than double the state’s current uninsured rate. The cuts are also expected to lead to hospital closures and the loss of approximately 63,000 healthcare jobs. Additionally, reductions to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) may result in 300,000 residents losing their benefits, exacerbating food insecurity for the 954,000 New York households already affected.

Since taking office in 2019, Senator Harckham has hosted regular “Coffee and Conversation” events to stay connected with constituents and ensure their voices are heard. He was joined at the Brewster event by Southeast Town Supervisor Nick Durante.

Supervisor Durante said, “I want to thank Senator Harckham for his time, and as I mentioned at the meeting, Southeast truly appreciates his help whenever we reach out. He is always willing to assist us, is instrumental with DOT regarding our roads and consistently supports Southeast education. We are grateful for his dedication to us and surrounding communities.”