The meeting’s primary focus was on the potential for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) to provide affordable housing solutions in Amherst. Rob Williams from the UMass School of Architecture presented his research on ADUs, emphasizing the rapid changes in legislation that could alter the housing landscape. With the recent Affordable Housing Act under the Healey Administration mandating municipalities to permit ADUs by right in single-family zones without owner occupancy requirements, Williams analyzed how such changes might impact Amherst.

Williams noted that while ADUs are now allowed by right in Amherst, actual development has been limited due to zoning regulations. His Geographic Information System (GIS) analysis revealed that only 57% of single-family residences currently meet the criteria for ADU development. Removing the owner-occupancy requirement would increase eligibility to 68%, but other zoning restrictions, such as minimum parcel sizes and parking requirements, still pose significant barriers. Specific neighborhoods like Orchard Valley, where many parcels are ineligible due to zoning constraints, were highlighted as areas with potential for increased development if regulations were adjusted.

The board discussed the implications of these zoning laws and the possibility of using GIS technology to identify parcels eligible for ADUs and visualize potential developments. The conversation included strategies to promote ADU development, such as financial incentives and pre-approved standard plans. The challenges of financing ADUs were also addressed, with discussions about engaging local banks to provide better financing options for homeowners interested in developing ADUs.

In addition to ADUs, the board considered a funding proposal from Community Action, in collaboration with Family Outreach of Amherst, to address increased financial difficulties among residents, particularly related to rent and utilities. The request for $18,000 aimed to prevent evictions and maintain housing stability for Amherst residents. The proposal highlighted the limitations of the state’s RAFT program in assisting households in subsidized apartments, prompting discussions on the balance between immediate assistance and long-term affordable housing solutions.

Board members debated the specifics of the funding request, including the inclusion of a 15% administrative fee and concerns about the adequacy of the proposed amount to address ongoing challenges. The urgency of providing immediate support was weighed against the board’s strategic goals, with an emphasis on aligning funding decisions with the broader plan to increase affordable housing stock. The motion to allocate $18,000 was passed with a vote of five to three.

The meeting also included updates on the Housing Production Plan (HPP) and specific projects such as the Wayfinder project at East Street and Belter Town Road. The board discussed the timeline for obtaining a comprehensive permit essential for state funding, as well as the challenges posed by the current market’s unpredictability. The status of the ADU bylaw, aligning it with state regulations, was also reviewed, with further discussions anticipated as part of broader housing strategies.

Plans for an upcoming community meeting aimed at discussing goals derived from the housing needs assessment were highlighted as key to gathering public input and ensuring the board’s efforts align with community needs.