Mohan plans early adoption of 2008 budget
by JESSICA L. FINCH Associate Editor

The 2007 Town of Amherst budget was never officially adopted because the Town Board literally ran out of time.

(See editorial on page four)

As midnight struck, the board was making last-minute motions, never taking a vote on the final $112 million spending plan. As a result the preliminary budget was made the final budget.

Supervisor Satish Mohan said that won't happen this year. According to the town's budget schedule the Town Board will vote on Oct. 29 on the final 2008 budget.

"This year we will vote one month early," he said about ensuring that history doesn't repeat itself.

Last year, the board failed to adopt a budget by the Nov. 22, 2006 deadline.

Mohan blamed the October storm for putting the budget off course, saying for more than a month he wasn't able to work on the figures.

Last week, he said he planned to dedicate the next two weeks to just the 2008 budget because it is already behind schedule.

"Some issues have clouded me," he said about the progress not being as far along as he would like.

As of last week, six department meetings out of the 19 had been held. Mohan said many of the departments have asked for too much funding.

The process usually includes cuts from various departments, transfers and additions before the board votes on a final budget.

On Sept. 17 the benefit basis budgets (lighting, drainage, sewer, fire and water) will be due.

Board members are scheduled to receive the tentative budget for their review on Oct. 2. The public hearing is tentatively scheduled for Oct. 22, and the adoption of the budget is planned for Oct. 29.

"I want to hold the line; my goal is to stay where we are," Mohan said about the total budget, adding that he doesn't see any major issues at this point.

During the Aug. 27 Town Board work session, the first discussion of the 2008 budget was held, and it was announced that the Highway Department is seeking $2.5 million in equipment purchases.

Mohan said he plans to review the needs before commenting on whether that amount may be cut.

The Amherst Bee was also informed that Mohan has asked for a fee increase in another department.

The Amherst Center for Senior Services has reported that at its budget meeting Mohan recommended that the annual fee be increased from $25 to $50 for next year.

A letter signed by Mary Ellen Walsh, executive director for the center, is asking that the request be reconsidered and a smaller increase implemented.

"The average member of the center is a person of modest means. Most seniors live on fixed incomes," she said, adding that she expects the membership to drop if the increase stands.

In addition to the annual fee, members also pay for lunch and classes on an as used basis.

Walsh requested that the fee be increased no more than $30 to $35 for next year.

A representative from the senior center did not know the last time there was an increase to the fee.