Amherst Town Council Considers Dual Surveys to Enhance Public Engagement and Charter Review

Overview: The Amherst Town Council meeting focused on enhancing public engagement through comprehensive outreach efforts and refining their charter review process. Central to the discussion was the development of surveys targeting both town staff and elected officials.

Amherst Library Board Grapples with Mold Issues and Historic Preservation Concerns

Overview: The recent Amherst Library Board of Trustees meeting focused on issues surrounding the library’s physical infrastructure, ongoing renovation plans, and administrative protocols. Key discussions included addressing severe mold problems following atrium leaks, reviewing a bid protest related to historic preservation, and clarifying policies on the library director’s involvement in legal matters.

Amherst Town Council Debates Safety and Accessibility of Historic Jones Library Staircase.

Overview: The Amherst Town Council meeting focused on the historic staircase at the Jones Library, centering on its preservation amid modern safety and accessibility concerns. Discussions addressed the staircase’s non-compliance with current Massachusetts Architectural Access Board (MAB) codes, efforts to preserve its historical value, and proposed safety enhancements. The meeting also touched on broader accessibility improvements for the library’s entrance and interior design.

Amherst Town Council Decides to Proceed with Jones Library Expansion Amidst Divided Opinions

Overview: In a contentious meeting, the Amherst Town Council voted against rescinding the borrowing authorization for the Jones Library renovation and expansion project, allowing the project to proceed despite significant public division and financial concerns. The decision followed a debate among council members and public commentators, who expressed mixed sentiments about the project’s feasibility and fiscal responsibility.

Amherst Historic District Commission Approves Accessory Dwelling Unit Amid Parking Concerns

Overview: The Amherst Historic District Commission convened recently to deliberate on several applications, including the approval of an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) on Lincoln Avenue. This decision was met with both support and concern from the commission and local residents, particularly regarding the design and potential implications for neighborhood parking. The meeting also addressed changes to historic district bylaws and preliminary discussions about survey plans for an East Amherst study.