Council accepts state highway safety grant authorizing traffic enforcement; motion cites occupant‑protection scope

The Bedford Town Council unanimously accepted the terms of a New Hampshire Highway Safety Grant at its June 25 meeting and authorized the town manager and police chief to sign associated documents.

Rick Sawyer, the town manager, told councilors the grant supports traffic enforcement campaigns such as impaired‑driving patrols, speed enforcement, distracted‑driving details and occupant‑protection work; the funding can also help purchase equipment such as radar units and message boards. An exhibit attached to the grant application references occupant protection and the need to post enforcement in areas frequented by people under 18.

There was one moment of clarification from Councilor Becky Soule, who noted that New Hampshire does not have a primary seat‑belt law for adults but does enforce occupant protection for minors; the council briefly discussed that enforcement for child passengers and occupant protection at locations like high schools is an intended focus. Councilor Carter moved to accept the grant; Councilor Bemis seconded and the motion passed 7–0.

Note on amounts: the meeting agenda identified the item as “Acceptance of a New Hampshire Department of Safety grant in the amount of $9,400.” When read into the record during the motion, the figure was stated as $209,400. The council approved the motion as presented at the meeting. The staff report includes exhibit B (scope of work) describing occupant‑protection tasks and local posting requirements.