Trustee Michael Hembury discussed possible Department of Transportation (DOT) signs for Union Street at the Village of Montgomery Board of Trustees regular meeting on Monday night.

He noted that many truck drivers have incorrect license classes, suspended licenses, DOT violations and warrants for their arrest. Some trucks have also been transporting illegal cargo. There have even been issues with the trucks themselves, as some are overweight or have problems with their brakes. Hembury wants signs to be placed on Union Street to deter the drivers from illegal activity.

“We can form committees. We can sit around and invite people from all over. Months, years can go by,” he said. “We want something now.”

The proposed signs would read “Truckers: DOT Violations Strictly Enforced.” Mayor Stephen Brescia told Hembury to draft a plan for the signs on Union Street, which the board of trustees could approve.

During the public portion of the meeting, Thomas Steed, a professional truck driver for 40 years, played devil’s advocate. He noted that commercial trucks can become damaged during commutes, causing truck drivers to get citations. A vehicle could be in perfect condition at the start of the commute and deteriorate due to the elements.

“If I were a truck driver,” he said. “I would avoid the Village of Montgomery.”