Police Department Presents Increase in Budget

The Amherst Police Department is including increases in their budget next year, but still has unfulfilled needs, according to Chief Peter Lyon.

Lyon presented his budget to the Board of Selectmen on Monday, which calls for an additional $211,090 over last year’s budget. This would be a 10.89 percent increase from the last fiscal year.

Much of the increase is due to the Collective Bargaining Agreement that was approved by voters, which includes increases in wages and benefits for police officers.

Changes in the NH Retirement System have also piled on costs, along with expected increases in health insurance and fuel.

Lyon said that the department has used 18,400 gallons of fuel for the 240-250,000 miles traveled last year. The department is also seeking a new cruiser to add to its roster.

Reductions were made in blood testing, telephone and custodian service to offset some costs in the budget.

The police chief said that his department is still seeking a more patrol positions handle

“It is lessening our ability to be out there and be seen,” sad Lyon. He added that it is harder to commit to crime prevention methods such as organizing neighborhood meetings.

A new patrol officer would have an initial cost of about $74,000.

Lyon also warned that items such as ammunition, tires and other supplies are increasing in cost.

In Public Safety Communications, there is only a $2,492 increase, which is due to expected increases in health insurance.

"It is a very tight budget," said Lyon on the spending in communications. "We are in better shape than we ever have been."