Recreation Commission Urges A Yes Vote on Warrant Article 22

The Recreation Commission asks that Amherst residents vote yes on Warrant Article 22 to pass the proposed 2014 town budget.

The mission of the Recreation Commission is to enhance the quality of life for all Amherst residents. A small portion, less than 3%, of the town budget goes to support a wide range of activities for adults and children of all ages. Sports fees cover annual maintenance of our playing fields.

Proper maintenance is critical to ensure not only the health and safety of players, but also to ensure a long lifetime for the playing surface. A key line item in this year’s Town operating budget is $6000 for the first year of a 5 year lease for a new tractor to be used for recreation field maintenance. The current, 18+year, old tractor is in need of almost $6,000 of repairs. Due to the age of the tractor it is recommended that we not spend the money on temporary repairs.

The Recreation Commission and Director worked together to reduce costs in other areas of the department budget, the result of which is a 0% increase. However, if the town operating budget fails we will not be able to enter into a lease agreement for the new tractor.

Our playing fields are a valuable asset to the citizens of this town and we urge residents to vote Yes on Article 22, so we can continue to ensure quality recreational opportunities in a safe environment.

Amherst Recreation Commission

Manny Almeida, Chairman

Patrick Daniels

William Dean

Addie Hutchison

Wendy Rannenberg

Karen Urbanik

Travis Warren