During the first workshop, Police Chief Paul Satkowski presented the 2021-22 police budget.
He began his presentation by noting the importance of access to proper equipment as the Police Department faces unprecedented challenges in its charge to serve the public, thanking the town officials and residents for their support.
The budget covers 41 full-time officers, two part-time patrol officers, two crossing guards, one administrative, one records clerk and one parking attendant.
Chief Satkowski noted that increases were due to salary changes due to contractual obligations and mandates such as the recently passed Police Accountability and Transparency Bill.
Chair Bill Sawicki asked for detailed expenses from that new legislation, which requires equipment such as dashboard and body cameras for police cars and officers, estimated at $150,000 to $200,000.