Amherst Zoning Board Approves Management Plan Amid Discussion on Tenant Regulations
- Meeting Overview:
During the recent Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals meeting, several decisions were made, including the approval of a new management plan for a property on West Street and a special permit for a property on Station Road. The board focused on ensuring compliance with town regulations and managing potential property issues through thorough discussions and unanimous votes.
The primary focus of the meeting was the review and approval of a new management plan for a property on West Street. The property, owned by Rajie Jog and managed by Jai Fuller, recently underwent changes in property management and landscaping services. The updated management plan was necessary due to these changes and was presented to the board for approval. Fuller explained that the new landscaping company, Grassroots Landscaping, replaced the previous provider, Four Seasons, while maintaining similar services. The plan also included a modified parking arrangement, which had already received town approval. The board inquired about the lighting changes on the property, confirming that no new lights were installed and existing motion-sensor lights remained unchanged.
A significant portion of the discussion centered around tenant regulations, particularly concerning party policies, guest limitations, and noise control. Board member Hilda Greenbaum expressed concern about the lack of a copy of the lease for tenants and sought clarification on these issues. Fuller confirmed that the lease included clauses specifying that tenants must adhere to occupancy levels during gatherings, prohibiting kegs on the premises, and maintaining reasonable noise levels. Greenbaum emphasized the importance of understanding these regulations fully, as they are critical aspects of property management.
The board concluded the discussion by approving the management plan for special permit ZBA FY208-04 with unanimous support.
The second major topic addressed during the meeting was the request for a special permit on Station Road. Property owner Maralina Defta sought approval to extend a pre-existing non-conforming structure by adding an open portico to the home’s front. The board conducted a site visit to assess the proposed addition, noting that it would not encroach closer to the property line as it extended towards the street. The chair and board member Mrs. Slovener described the addition as a reasonable and non-invasive enhancement to the property.
No public comments or objections were raised during the discussion of this application. Ms. Defta explained that the portico was necessary to protect the entryway from rain damage, and while a smaller overhang could be constructed without a special permit, she preferred the full portico for aesthetic reasons. The board considered the proposal’s impact on the neighborhood, concluding that it was suitable for its location and aligned with existing nonconformities.
The board unanimously approved the special permit for a property on Station Road, with conditions ensuring that the project would be constructed according to the plans presented. They emphasized the importance of clear communication and transparency among board members throughout the approval process.
Paul Brockelman
Zoning Board Officials:
Everald Henry, Steve Judge, Craig Meadows, Philip White, Hilda Greenbaum, Sarah Marshall, David Sloviter, Rob Watchilla (AICP)
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Meeting Type:
Zoning Board
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
08/28/2025
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Recording Published:
08/29/2025
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Duration:
97 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Massachusetts
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County:
Hampshire County
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Towns:
Amherst
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