The meeting commenced with a detailed primer on the master plan delivered by Chris Brep. This long-term planning document, adopted in 2010, serves as a guiding framework for Amherst’s future growth and development, distinct from zoning regulations. Brep underscored the plan’s dynamic nature, noting its evolution through extensive public engagement involving over a thousand residents. She emphasized the importance of public input, saying, “the plan was developed through a comprehensive process involving over a thousand Amherst residents.”

Brep provided an overview of the required chapters of the master plan, which include goals and policies, land use, demographics and housing, economic development, natural and cultural resources, open space and recreation, services and facilities, transportation and circulation, and implementation. Highlighting accomplishments since the plan’s adoption, Brep mentioned housing developments like the Olympia Oaks Housing Development and the Main Street housing project, which offer affordable rental units for low-income families. She also noted ongoing efforts to update zoning laws to accommodate new housing, especially mixed-use buildings along University Drive.

The discussion then transitioned to a public forum where residents expressed their views on the master plan. John Sheldon from Sunset voiced concerns about inadequate public parking, particularly in downtown areas, urging the council to address this in future master plans. Another resident, Maria K., brought up a petition opposing the Jones Library project, which had garnered over 1,000 signatures. She stated that a significant majority of respondents wanted the project halted and preferred a more affordable renovation plan, reflecting widespread concerns over costs and the preservation of historic features.

The council also discussed the University Drive overlay district proposal, which aims to facilitate mixed-use developments while maintaining existing zoning regulations. Town planner Nate Malloy explained that the overlay encourages residential and non-residential developments, with a requirement that at least 75% of the ground floor facing University Drive be non-residential. This aims to enhance the vibrancy of the streetscape and promote pedestrian pathways. Concerns were raised about the potential impact on existing businesses like the Big Y supermarket, with council members debating the balance between promoting new developments and preserving community assets.

The topic of housing was covered. The council discussed the challenges of finding suitable land for new developments in Amherst, particularly due to environmental constraints like rocky or wet land. The importance of preserving farmland and forests while concentrating new housing in established neighborhoods was emphasized. There were suggestions to consider accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and easing regulations on duplexes as potential solutions to increase housing options.

The Jones Library project was another focal point, with residents and council members expressing diverse opinions. Concerns about the project’s alignment with the Section 106 review process, which protects historic features, were raised, emphasizing the need for review to secure federal grants.

Additionally, the council reviewed public infrastructure projects. A proposal for sidewalk and road improvements on West Street received support from the Transportation Advisory Committee and the Disability Access Advisory Committee. However, concerns about speed limits and the prioritization of sidewalk projects were discussed.

Intersection improvements for Southeast Street were also debated, with proposals including a series of roundabouts to manage traffic flow. Council members expressed concerns about pedestrian safety, particularly for children near schools, and the integration of bike lanes into the project.

The meeting also covered various updates, including the water treatment facility project, which has reached its maximum height and is funded through a state loan and principal relief. The project is expected to provide a reliable water source for the community. The successful block party and the upcoming Charter Review Committee meeting were noted, along with the expected procurement of a new fire engine and delayed ambulances.