In Buffalo the blizzard that recently battered the region left hundreds of cars, trucks and SUVs trapped in snow.
Most of the local governments that ordered those vehicles removed from roadways – to make room for emergency and snow-clearing equipment – covered the towing and storage costs.
But not Amherst.
Drivers who were forced to abandon their vehicles in Buffalo's largest suburb had to pay charges of several hundred dollars or more to get them back.
"It was ridiculous," said Roxanne Albert, whose daughter, Julianna, a registered nurse, was charged $380 to get back her SUV. "She's an essential worker driving in a blizzard."
Unhappy vehicle owners contend Amherst let private towing companies charge exorbitant fees to people stuck in the devastating storm.
In contrast, Erie County, Buffalo, Cheektowaga and the Town of Tonawanda said they viewed towing as an expense they absorb during major emergencies and they will seek disaster-aid reimbursement.
Amherst Supervisor Brian Kulpa, for his part, said the town followed long-standing policy in requiring vehicle owners to pay towing charges.
"We just did what we always do whenever we tow a car out of a right of way," Kulpa said.
More info: Buffalo News
