Amherst Planning Board Weighs Future of Cherry Hill Golf Course Amid Infrastructure Concerns

Overview: The Amherst Planning Board meeting on March 14 addressed matters related to the sustainability fund, the future of Cherry Hill Golf Course, and the fire department’s capital requests. Key discussions included the funding challenges associated with Cherry Hill’s irrigation system and the replacement of critical equipment for the fire department.

Amherst Zoning Board Approves Special Permit Amendment Amid Concerns Over Community Spaces and Parking

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals approved an amendment to a special permit, allowing the conversion of a community building into parking spaces within a condominium development. This decision, reached after discussions, addressed residents’ concerns about community spaces, parking adequacy, and safety measures. The board also considered a variance request for a building height increase on Amity Street, reflecting broader community interests in housing and infrastructure development.

Amherst Town Council Faces Intense Debate Over Education Funding and Public Art Allocation

Overview: At the recent Amherst Town Council meeting, impassioned debates unfolded over topics, notably the allocation of funds to local schools and the implementation of the “percent for art” bylaw for the new Fort River Elementary School. As council members deliberated, residents voiced strong concerns, particularly about the impact of budget cuts on special education services and the appropriate funding for public art projects.

Amherst Town Council Faces Budget Deficit, School Funding Challenges Amid Rising Costs

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Amherst Town Council faced discussions regarding budget deficits and school funding challenges. With rising costs in health insurance and contractual obligations, the council delved into strategies to address a $400,000 town budget shortfall and debated the equitable distribution of funds between town services and schools.

Amherst Police Seek Funding for Critical Vehicle and Technology Upgrades Amid Budget Challenges

Overview: The Amherst Planning Board meeting focused on urgent funding requests by the police department for vehicle replacement and technology upgrades, highlighting the town’s budgetary constraints and priorities. The police department is seeking funds to replace five high-mileage vehicles and the obsolete in-car video system, which is important for operational readiness and law enforcement. These requests underscored the ongoing challenges of balancing essential services with limited resources, as the Planning Board deliberated on funding allocations across various departments.