Amherst Committee Tackles Heatherstone Road Revamp

Overview: The Amherst Transportation Advisory Committee recently convened to discuss major revisions to the Heatherstone Road project, a proposal that includes the removal of a median, the addition of sidewalks, crosswalks, and traffic calming measures such as mini roundabouts. The committee’s deliberations also touched on various community concerns and the upcoming Walk Bike to School Week activities.

Amherst ZBA Grapples with Rental Property Management Concerns

Overview: The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) recently convened to deliberate on a significant modification to a special permit, focusing on the conversion of an owner-occupied property to a rental space and the associated implications for neighborhood dynamics and zoning regulations. The discussion was intense and multifaceted, covering the responsibilities of a resident manager, the impact of non-owner-occupied rentals on the community, and the legal intricacies of leasing arrangements.

Amherst Finance Committee Tackles School Budget and Cuts

Overview: The Amherst Finance Committee recently convened to discuss issues surrounding the school district’s budget, focusing on the implications of staffing adjustments due to enrollment trends, the allocation of funds amidst potential budget shortfalls, and the specific impact of proposed budget cuts on educational programs. The meeting also touched upon potential collaborations with local higher education institutions, budget transparency, and the financial challenges posed by the library project.

Amherst ZBA Postpones Public Hearing Due to Incomplete Panel

Overview: The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals held a brief meeting, the most notable outcome being the postponement of a public hearing to a later date due to the absence of a full five-member panel. The hearing in question pertained to a petition for changing the occupancy status of a converted dwelling from owner-occupied to non-owner occupied with a manager, including requested waivers from the traffic impact study, lighting, and landscaping plans. The decision was made to continue the hearing to April 18th, 2024, when the full board is expected to be present.

Amherst Board of Health Tackles Tobacco Regulation and Public Health

Overview: At a recent meeting, the Amherst Board of Health engaged in a review of the town’s tobacco regulations, including discussions on fine adjustments, enforcement challenges, and the relevance of certain violations. Moreover, the board addressed public health initiatives, such as the success of a mindfulness session and a hepatitis A vaccine clinic, the future of the kindness campaign, and the potential impact of a looming tick and mosquito season.