Supervisor outlines his agenda for the future
SATISH MOHAN Amherst Supervisor
Our town has faced many challenges. Some we have created, and others we have endured. Hopefully, in 2008, with the new Town Board, we can make Amherst a better place to live and enjoy.

The concept of smaller government and reducing property taxes continues to be my top priority for 2008. To effectuate this, Council Member Guy Marlette has suggested a three-year freeze on expenditures, and Council Member Deborah Bucki is working on a hiring freeze law. To optimize our $35 million expenditure in contracts, we are establishing a centralized purchasing program with competitive bidding.

Public facilities (water supply and sewage collection and treatment infrastructure) are aging and need replacement of worn-out sections and components. My 2008 budget includes adequate funds to begin renovation of these necessities.

Replanting of trees that were cut after the October 2006 storm will begin in the spring of 2008 with a budget of $190,000.

Citizen participation is important. We have about 35 citizen boards and committees. Some are big, and others have not met for a long time. Therefore, we are now merging and eliminating several committees. Instead of large citizen committees, I will propose small three-member committees for some major departments and major tasks such as: health care, sinking homes and central purchasing.

Unfortunately, not much has been accomplished on sinking homes except a five-year graduated tax abatement on renovation costs. Council Member Barry Weinstein has volunteered to accelerate this task. Also, a fair and equitable assessment program is still to be finalized.

Physical development, both residential and commercial, if not supported by a corresponding increase in population or by new industry, will result in vacant buildings. I will work on a local law to avoid any vacant buildings in Amherst.

Our "safest" community has to advance toward other goals, including a healthy and walkable community. To achieve this, I will propose to construct 6-foot-wide sidewalks around our schools and shopping plazas. Council Member Shelly Schratz is working on eliminating use of trans fats in our schools and restaurants.

A decent and honest government is the prerequisite for a brighter future of any society. Amherstonians deserve one. I am hoping the new Town Board will cooperate with me in carrying out open proceedings in a manner that will make our citizens proud of their vote. I am proposing an amendment to our rules of procedure that will authorize me to rule out of order any unparliamentary actions during our board's proceedings.

Plans for 2008 also include: building a new town hall; merging sanitary sewer services with the Town of Clarence, the Village of Williamsville and the county districts in Clarence; and, privatizing the management of some facilities such as golf courses and the compost facility. Each of the plans will be tested for long-term gains and feasibility before implementation.

I wish all Amherstonians a very happy and healthy 2008.