On Monday residents were out in force once again to speak out against the Town of Amherst plan to increase property taxes by more than 11 percent.
It’s a battle that’s far from over in the Town of Amherst.
“Personally my taxes from 2023 to 2024 were raised 13 percent,” says Michelle Coffey, a town of Amherst resident.
Before the meeting, some constituents Coffey and Dennis Hoban gathered outside town hall for a peaceful protest.
“It was done behind closed doors. It was not allowed for the public to speak about, and our tax dollars are being wasted on unfinished projects,” Coffey says.
Hoban says the board needs a forensic audit.
“I think the state of New York needs to come in and do a forensic audit,” he says. “If the state attorney general is listening to this message. Come to Amherst.”
Greater transparency is what many of these taxpayers are demanding.
The board is aiming to do just that.
Council member Shawn Lavin implemented a local law to enhance transparency and participation in the town’s budget process.