Police force helps our quality of life
I am fortunate to have lived in Amherst for more than 30 years. There are many reasons I feel this way: my children attended excellent local schools, I work, shop and enjoy recreational activities in the community, and my friends live good, solid lives here.

But today I am concerned about its current state of affairs.

Last fall, I along with many Amherst residents voted into office Supervisor Satish Mohan, who had no political experience. While I support his drive to cut excessive spending, I do not agree with his intention to eliminate jobs that are key to Amherst's quality of life. I am referring to the vacant police officer positions Mohan is attempting to permanently cut.

While crime is increasing, the thought of fewer police officers frightens me. I suppose in some ways I have taken it for granted that I can go for an evening walk and feel safe.

The Amherst Police Department has done an excellent job. And it has accomplished this with less than half the number of officers of the average suburban police force. Does it make sense to cut even more?

Ironically, the money Mohan is trying to save now will be small in comparison to what a higher crime rate will cost all of us later. More and more of my neighbors and friends agree: in the long run cutting police officers will only hurt Amherst.

As a mother, I hope my children will be able to enjoy Amherst as it is today - the safest town in American in its population category. I strongly believe the vacant police officer positions should be filled, and quickly. Delaying this will not make our children safer or improve our quality of life.

Beth Bochiechio

Amherst