Amherst · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Town of Amherst public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Town E-Bike and E-Scooter Regulations
Town officials discussed ongoing public input for new regulations regarding electric bicycles and e-scooters. The board decided to keep public comments open and delay any final voting decision until November 30 to gather more feedback from local cyclists and residents.
North Amherst Fire Company Storage Building
The North Amherst Fire Company is looking to build an 80x60-foot storage building for trucks. The board approved the project with conditions to ensure the building's exterior matches the area's rural aesthetic.
Board Vacancy and Candidate Interviews
The commission is interviewing candidates to fill an open spot on the historic preservation board.
Repeal of Local Freedom of Information Law
The town board initiated proceedings to repeal its local Freedom of Information law in favor of relying entirely on New York State Public Officers Law and town administrative policy, drawing questions from residents about transparency.
Board Quorum and Member Attendance
The traffic safety board discussed chronic attendance issues that have prevented voting quorums, leading them to recommend replacing an absent member.
East Amherst Fire Department New Firefighter
The board processed the appointment of a new firefighter for the East Amherst Fire Department.
Police Department Staffing Levels
Residents questioned police department staffing levels, and town leadership noted a regional decline in civil service exam applicants while emphasizing rigorous vetting standards.
Police Shooting
An Amherst police officer shot a woman holding a knife during a tense confrontation, instantly sparking local debate over police tactics and neighborhood safety. This high-profile incident puts our city's emergency response procedures under the microscope.