- 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.
- MA
- Hampshire County
- 4/29/24
- 04/30/2024
- 135 Minutes
- Noteworthy
- Highly Noteworthy
- Routine
Overview: The Amherst Historic District Commission recently convened to deliberate on several property applications, with the most issue being a proposed three-unit structure on Fearing Street. While some applications, such as exterior lighting on a garage on Mclellan and window replacements on Sunset, were approved with relative ease and public support, the Fearing Street project sparked debate regarding its scale, design, and compatibility with the historic neighborhood.
- MA
- Hampshire County
- 4/25/24
- 04/30/2024
- 181 Minutes
- Noteworthy
- Highly Noteworthy
- Routine
Overview: The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals’ recent meeting primarily focused on the environmental implications of a proposed solar photovoltaic array, sparking discussions about the need for thorough peer review and the project’s potential impact on local ecosystems. Public commentary and board discourse also centered on procedural matters and the construction of a single-family home on a flag lot, including considerations for dark sky compliant lighting.
- MA
- Hampshire County
- 4/24/24
- 04/30/2024
- 172 Minutes
- Noteworthy
- Highly Noteworthy
- Routine
Overview: In a recent meeting, the Amherst Conservation Commission focused on urgent infrastructure repairs and environmental management, with emphasis on the emergency certifications for road and bridge repairs due to recent storm damage. The meeting also addressed concerns over invasive species management, a proposed historic site development, and violations regarding tree cutting within a wetland boundary.