A discussion on the Department of Public Works revealed concerns about staffing shortages and infrastructure maintenance. The DPW, described as the largest department in town with 65 employees, is experiencing high turnover rates due to better-paying opportunities in neighboring communities. The highway division, responsible for essential tasks such as pothole repairs and snow plowing, faces imminent staffing shortages with six vacancies expected by the end of the month. This shortage is causing difficulties in sidewalk snow removal, which is a concern for senior residents who struggle with the town bylaw mandating property owners to clear sidewalks.

The meeting detailed the complexities of Amherst’s water system, which includes both wells and treatment plants. There are five wells, four of which are untreated, while one requires treatment for iron and manganese. The wastewater department, managing a conveyance system over 50 years old, is seeking to attract new customers from neighboring communities to offset costs. The town’s road conditions and the recurring issue of potholes were also discussed, with officials emphasizing the need for increased funding to address these infrastructure problems adequately. A controversial suggestion was made to reduce the use of salt in winter months to prevent damage caused by the freeze-thaw cycle, although this idea may not gain widespread support.

Concerns were also raised about property maintenance issues, particularly overgrown vegetation encroaching on roads and sidewalks, which complicates accessibility for the elderly. The tree and grounds division, tasked with maintaining town commons, athletic fields, and street trees, operates with fewer employees compared to other divisions, highlighting a need for resource allocation in this area.

The conversation shifted towards improving senior services, with a focus on a new survey designed to gather feedback from the senior community. The council discussed various methods to distribute the survey, including the use of postcards with QR codes and shortened URLs to facilitate access. Concerns about the potential technical challenges for seniors in using QR codes were addressed by providing alternatives such as printed versions of the survey upon request. A “soft launch” of the survey is planned at an upcoming block party, with strategies in place to maximize participation through clear communication and outreach efforts.

The survey initiative aims to adapt communication methods to suit the diverse preferences of the senior community, with plans for a two-month response window to ensure robust engagement. The council acknowledged the importance of coordinating outreach efforts, including timing articles in local media to coincide with the distribution of survey materials. This strategic approach is intended to increase awareness and encourage timely responses from the community.

The meeting concluded with logistical planning for future senior service initiatives, including the design and distribution of promotional materials. The council emphasized the importance of collaboration and creative design in their outreach efforts, with an eye towards ensuring effective communication with the senior community.