During Monday night’s meeting of Amherst Town Council, a motion was passed approving funding for two initiatives, totalling $8,100 under the Community Support Grants Policy, Social Equity Fund. From the approved funding amount, a $5,000 contribution will be made to the Amherst Community Christmas Dinner, which is open to anyone, providing an inclusive environment for those experiencing food insecurity and a welcoming holiday meal. A $3,100 contribution will be made to the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, which provides books to more than 220 children in Amherst to inspire their quest for learning.
Audit Committee – Citizen Appointment
One of the two citizen appointees to the Town of Amherst’s Audit Committee – Rob Small – was recently elected as Mayor. Therefore, his appointment to the committee as a citizen was vacant for a period. Expressions of interest were sought through The Casket and Town of Amherst social media, resulting in receipt of three applications.
On Monday night, Council appointed Rae Burke as a citizen member of the Town of Amherst Audit Committee for a term ending on October 31, 2025.
Amherst Youth Town Council Appointments
Involving youth in the community adds value to youth development. It also empowers our young people to be active participants in their community through positive engagement, while providing Council with a youth perspective on issues pertaining to young people in Amherst.
In June of 2024, seven students expressed interest in returning to the Amherst Youth Town Council, which is capped at 15 members; since then, two new persons have been recruited. Council appointed Isla Crocker and Hanna Brunt to the Amherst Youth Town Council on Monday night, bringing the total number of members up to nine.
Police Body-Worn Cameras
The purchase of 10 body-worn cameras for the amount of $50,000 was approved in the 2024/25 Capital Budget. Since the purchase was initially considered, technology and pricing have changed considerably. Staff recommended a solution to lease the equipment instead of purchasing it.
In leasing the equipment, the provider will ensure required integrations with existing technology, data storage in the cloud, as well as required repairs and equipment replacement.
Council passed a motion to remove the purchase of 10 police body-worn cameras from the 2024/25 Capital Budget and authorized the lease of 12 police body-worn cameras at a cost of approximately $20,000 annually, to be funded from the Police Department Operating Budget.
Full details of the Council meeting are available in the agenda package, located on our website
