Amherst Zoning Board Evaluates Solar Array Proposal Amid Other Key Deliberations

Overview: The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals tackled several significant agenda items during a recent meeting, focusing primarily on the continuation of a special permit application for a solar array on East Pleasant Street. The board also discussed procedural issues for a property on High Street and approved a conversion proposal for a residential structure, alongside other administrative matters.

Amherst Community Resources Committee Advances Key Housing and Solar Initiatives

Overview: In a recent meeting of the Amherst Community Resources Committee, members deliberated on several significant projects, including a zoning map change, updates on solar bylaw draft regulations, and the town’s housing production plan.

Amherst Committee Streamlines Public Way Policy Amidst Calls for More Frequent Reporting

Overview: In a meeting conducted remotely, the Amherst Town Services and Outreach Committee focused on refining a policy draft that governs the control and regulation of public ways. The discussion centered on clarifying notice requirements for public hearings and revising the role of the Board of Licensed Commissioners, amidst concerns about the frequency and transparency of their reporting to the town council.

Amherst Community Safety Committee Prioritizes ICE Concerns and Housing Equity in Meeting

Overview: The Amherst Community Safety and Social Justice Committee meeting on October 22, 2023, brought to light issues concerning immigration enforcement activities by ICE in the community and the ongoing challenges related to housing equity. Members discussed the Amherst Police Department’s (APD) reported interactions with ICE and the frustrations surrounding the Crisis Response and Emergency Services Team (CREST). A significant portion of the meeting also focused on affordable housing developments aimed at addressing racial equity and first-time homeownership.

Amherst Conservation Commission Challenges Eversource’s Extensive Tree Clearing Proposal

Overview: The Amherst Conservation Commission convened on October 22, 2025, to address a series of issues, most notably the permit application submitted by Eversource for their WT11 project. This application proposes widespread tree clearing, which has sparked significant concern among commission members. The proposed clearing is feared to have profound environmental impacts, particularly on wetland areas and local water resources. The commission unanimously voted to oppose the project, citing Eversource’s non-compliance with requests from the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) and potential negative consequences on Amherst’s drinking water sources.