The police department’s primary request involved replacing five vehicles that have surpassed 100,000 miles, a necessity for maintaining reliable 24/7 operations. The current fleet, though hybrid, faces significant wear and tear due to continuous usage and the demanding nature of police work. Each fully equipped cruiser is estimated to cost $90,000. The department’s historical pattern of regular vehicle replacement has been disrupted by recent fiscal constraints, increasing the urgency of this request. A committee member raised concerns about the equity of vehicle allocations across departments and questioned if the police should be prioritized over others with similarly high-mileage vehicles. The police representative emphasized the unique operational demands of their department, which operates round-the-clock, unlike others.

In addition to vehicles, the police department seeks to replace their 20-year-old in-car video system, which is now unsupported and technologically obsolete following its acquisition by Motorola. The need for this upgrade is critical, given the importance of video surveillance in law enforcement operations. The department plans to integrate this with a new system for body-worn cameras, which could cost over $500,000.

The meeting also touched on broader municipal financing practices, with a member questioning whether running infrastructure until failure is a common strategy. While maximizing equipment lifespan is typical, the delays in replacing essential items can hinder operations. The board acknowledged these trade-offs, recognizing the need for technological updates despite limited resources.

Another topic was the proposed overlay district in North Amherst aimed at increasing housing density. The overlay would allow for voluntary densification in specific areas, potentially tripling or quintupling current density levels. The proposal seeks to address housing shortages, particularly for students and new residents, by encouraging redevelopment of single-family homes and older rentals. Discussions included potential height limitations, architectural style, and affordable housing requirements. Concerns were raised about maintaining the town’s affordable housing percentage and the balance between development and existing community character.

The board also considered an upcoming Zoning Board of Appeals application for a duplex on Curtis Place, a significant departure from the neighborhood’s typical single-family homes. The proposal follows the demolition of a fire-damaged historic property, and the Planning Board contemplated whether to review the design before the ZBA hearing.

Additional discussions covered accessory dwelling units (ADUs), with members deliberating on regulations, setbacks, and the implications of state legislation on local housing policies. The conversation emphasized the need for clear bylaws to ensure compliance and address community concerns about housing diversity and neighborhood preservation.