Amherst Committee Grapples with Transparency and Public Way Policies

Overview: In the recent meeting of the Amherst Town Services and Outreach Committee, members focused on transparency in committee appointments and revisions to the town council’s policy on the control and regulation of public ways. Concerns about transparency arose during discussions on committee appointments, while debates about historical terminology and delegation of authority marked the policy review.

Hatfield Planning Board Grapples with Zoning Challenges Amid Public Concerns

Overview: The Hatfield Planning Board’s recent meeting centered on significant zoning challenges, including the proposed parking expansion at the Hatfield Rally House, ongoing zoning inconsistencies, and the complexities of updating zoning bylaws and the town map. Public concerns and potential conflicts of interest further complicated these discussions, highlighting the need for clear communication and thorough community engagement.

Hatfield Select Board Approves Key School Projects and Paves Way for By-law Overhaul

Overview: In a recent Hatfield Select Board meeting, progress was made on local infrastructure projects, including the approval of contracts for the Hatfield Elementary School boiler and roof projects. The board also addressed the need to overhaul the town’s outdated by-laws, which have been criticized for being inaccessible to the public.

Amherst Historical Commission Faces Delays with Demolition Applications Due to Quorum Issues

Overview: The recent Amherst Historical Commission meeting was marked by struggles to achieve a quorum, leading to potential complications in handling demolition applications for properties on Railroad Street and Bridge Street. The absence of a quorum resulted in the automatic approval of the Railroad Street property’s demolition, while the Bridge Street application was deferred, pending written extension approval from the homeowner.

Amherst Committee Debates Solar Bylaw Reporting and Affordable Housing Challenges

Overview: The Amherst Community Resources Committee recently held a meeting focusing on issues surrounding solar energy bylaws and the town’s affordable housing plan. Key discussions centered on the specific reporting requirements for solar installations, the implications of promoting off-campus student housing, and the broader challenges of housing affordability in Amherst.