0:01A focal point of the meeting was the amendment to the special permit for the Green Leaves condominium complex. The amendment involved replacing a proposed community building with designated community rooms in each of the five buildings, based on residents’ feedback. Concerns were raised about the adequacy of the revised community spaces and the implications for resident engagement. A resident, Clark Perkins, voiced that a central community building would better serve the community.

20:44Parking arrangements at the complex were scrutinized, with the site currently hosting 222 paved spaces and plans to increase to 232. The board discussed the need for a lighting plan to enhance safety, addressing concerns that downcast lighting was insufficient. The need for a comprehensive landscaping and drainage plan was emphasized, with adjustments required for the catch basins to prevent standing water. A public comment period revealed safety concerns, including inadequate lighting and sidewalk conditions, particularly near Building 28, exacerbated by the transition of the community building into a parking area.

40:24Susan Cummings, a resident, highlighted ongoing issues with parking ratios that fall below Amherst’s bylaw requirements, calling for more accessible parking options. She also emphasized safety risks due to the absence of marked parking spaces and pedestrian access, urging the board to incorporate these considerations into the permit conditions.

2:43:05In parallel, the board deliberated a variance request for a property on Amity Street, proposing a height increase from 57 to 59.5 feet to accommodate changes in soil conditions and new building standards. The project, transitioning from two buildings to a single structure, required modifications for effective drainage and compliance with the passive house standard, which necessitates additional ductwork. The variance was deemed necessary due to high groundwater levels and economic factors affecting the original steel-based design.

3:19:27Economic viability and compliance with zoning bylaws were central to the board’s considerations. The variance request also included discussions on the adjusted parking plan, which now features 160 spaces for the 78-unit building. The proposal includes affordable housing units, with nine designated for low-income residents.

0:01The board’s decision-making process was rigorous. The need for a comprehensive lighting and landscaping plan was reiterated, with conditions set for downcast lighting to mitigate disturbance to nearby properties. The board also highlighted the importance of maintaining open communication with residents to address unresolved issues prior to finalizing the permit.