State of the Town
Mohan looks to use 2007 to tie up loose ends
by JESSICA L. FINCH Associate Editor

Amherst Supervisor Satish Mohan presents his State of the Town address during the Amherst Chamber of Commerce luncheon on Friday. He focused on the future growth of the town. Photo by John Rusac Purchase photos at www.BeeNews.com

Supervisor Satish Mohan has set his goals for 2007, and many focus on the long-term development of the Town of Amherst.

Mohan presented the annual State of the Town address during the Amherst Chamber of Commerce luncheon on Friday at Classics V Banquet and Conference Center.

"My goals for 2007 are to continue the Master Plan process by working to effectuate the policies identified in the plan, rezoning parcels and refining codes where necessary," he said, adding that he plans to work on a coordinated smart growth master plan for the University at Buffalo's expansion in Amherst.

Some controversial topics were also addressed. Mohan said he plans to settle any and all outstanding contracts and complete the assessment review process. His decision to remove the 100 percent assessment program has caused concern in both the assessor's office and in the town's school districts.

Mohan said he wants a plan for future growth, especially in North Amherst. He also plans to address the sinking homes and flooding issues.

Since his campaigning days, Mohan has focused on reducing taxes. He said that must be done or in 2020 residents will be facing a $170 million budget.

"Can we afford that?" he asked, adding that the budget has an average annual increase of 5 percent, while there is only a .65 percent population increase.

With the budget outgrowing its population, Mohan said residents will suffer.

The only years the budget had no increase in taxes were election years, leading to Mohan's statement, "Don't you wish we had an election every year?"

The town recorded economic growth with $79 million from 32 new commercial projects and $143.5 million in building permits. Also seven residential projects totaled $26 million.

Something Amherst is used to stating every year is it is ranked one of the safest communities in the United States. Mohan said the town was once again ranked and acknowledged the efforts of the Police Department.

In 2006, John Askey was named assistant chief. Also, Chief John Moslow was named to the Board of Governors for the New York State Association of Police Chiefs.

2006 was not the smoothest year for Mohan and the Town Board, but he named several areas that he considers goals for 2007.

"I am pleased to report that the State of the Town of Amherst in 2007 is healthy, robust and economically sound, and Amherst is open for business," he stated in his speech.

Mohan's State of the Town address will be posted on the town's Web site at www.amherst.ny.us.