In the heart of Plaistow, New Hampshire, the Board of Selectmen convened on November 4, 2024, to address pressing budgetary concerns that have stirred debate among residents. As the meeting unfolded, a palpable tension filled the room, particularly surrounding the expenditures of the town’s police and fire departments.

One selectman voiced strong opinions about the necessity of current spending practices, questioning the need for expensive police vehicles like Chevy Tahoes and the practice of rebranding existing trucks. “We can have a piece of masking tape that says Plaistow PD on the cars for all I care,” he remarked, emphasizing a desire for fiscal responsibility over flashy appearances. His comments reflected a broader sentiment that the town should reevaluate its spending, especially as the budgets for public safety departments have seen significant increases.

The selectman pointed out that while the fire department has successfully secured grants, the overall financial growth of both the police and fire departments has been “astronomical.” He raised concerns about the overtime costs associated with police and fire personnel attending community events, suggesting that while public safety is paramount, the town should not be footing the bill for their presence at these gatherings unless absolutely necessary.

As discussions progressed, the selectman urged for a more prudent approach to budgeting, advocating for a year where expenditures could either remain level or decrease. “We shouldn’t be accepting 15% increases,” he stated, calling for accountability from town management. He also expressed concern about the rising cost of living in Plaistow, noting that increasing property sales on Main Street could indicate that some residents are being priced out of their own community.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to finalize the budget and send it to the budget committee, but the discussions highlighted a growing urgency among selectmen to address financial sustainability in Plaistow. As the town prepares for deliberative sessions, the call for community support in trimming the budget resonates, reflecting a collective desire for a balanced approach to growth and fiscal responsibility.