- MA
- Hampshire County
- 5/7/24
- 05/10/2024
- 119 Minutes
- Noteworthy
- Highly Noteworthy
- Routine
Overview: In a review of Amherst’s financial health and future planning, the Finance Committee met to scrutinize the annual Auditor’s report and engage in a multifaceted discussion on the overall budget with a heightened focus on the capital budget. The audit, presented by Scott McIntyre from Markham, affirmed the town’s financial statements to be fairly presented and free of material weaknesses or deficiencies in the internal control structure. Deliberations spanned from the increase in net pension liability, pegged at approximately $16 million from the prior year, to comparisons with other communities on funding Other Post-Employment Benefits (OPEB), revealing a contribution deficiency of $1.5 million annually. Public comments amplified concerns over the Regional Schools’ budget, advocating for a 6% increase to avert staff reductions, and critiquing capital budget planning and allocations.
- MA
- Hampshire County
- 5/6/24
- 05/07/2024
- 177 Minutes
- Noteworthy
- Highly Noteworthy
- Routine
Overview: The latest Amherst Town Council meeting was marked by discussions surrounding the higher-than-anticipated bid for the Jones Library building project, concerns over the proposed budget, particularly the education component, and the acceptance of roads in the Amherst Hills development as public ways.
- MA
- Hampshire County
- 4/30/24
- 05/07/2024
- 119 Minutes
- Noteworthy
- Highly Noteworthy
- Routine
Overview: The Amherst Community Resources Committee recently focused on refining the solar bylaw. The discussions revolved around whether certain elements, such as design standards and battery energy storage systems, should be incorporated within the bylaw or outlined separately in rules and regulations. Additionally, the committee deliberated on the sufficiency of the applicant pool for the planning board and the strategies for enhancing diversity and participation.
- MA
- Hampshire County
- 4/29/24
- 04/30/2024
- 64 Minutes
- Noteworthy
- Highly Noteworthy
- Routine
Overview: In a development for public amenities in Amherst, the Design Review Board approved the installation of a new public restroom facility in Kendrick Park. This modern facility, known as the “Portland Loo,” is a prefabricated unit that has been successfully installed in approximately 300 locations across the country. The approval came with the condition that the necessary waivers and approvals are obtained, including a waiver for the 15-foot setback requirement from the roadway right-of-way.
- MA
- Hampshire County
- 4/29/24
- 04/30/2024
- 118 Minutes
- Noteworthy
- Highly Noteworthy
- Routine
Overview: In a move, the Amherst Town Council rejected a construction bid for the Jones Library project that exceeded the estimated cost by over $6 million, highlighting the meeting’s focus on fiscal responsibility and community priorities. This development was particularly significant considering the project’s ongoing financial challenges, including the library’s failure to make a scheduled payment to the town. The rejection of the bid prompted discussions on alternative paths and the necessity for continued financial support for the library.