Amherst Committee Deliberates Solar Bylaw Revisions Amid Concerns Over Clarity and Redundancy

Overview: In a virtual meeting on November 12, 2024, the Amherst Community Resources Committee focused on the intricacies of revising the town’s solar bylaw, discussing its purpose, submission requirements, and the potential overregulation of solar projects. The committee is working to balance community values with Massachusetts’s climate goals, while ensuring regulations remain straightforward and non-redundant.

Amherst Disability Access Committee Voices Concerns Over Proposed Southeast Street Roundabouts

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Amherst Disability Access Committee focused on issues concerning the proposed installation of roundabouts at Southeast Street, the committee’s potential transition to a commission, and improvements to the accessibility of town digital resources. Members expressed concerns about the safety and accessibility implications of the roundabouts, debated changes to committee structure, and discussed enhancing the town’s website and public information tools.

Amherst Town Council Discusses Single Tax Rate and School Funding Concerns

Overview: The Amherst Town Council meeting on November 4, 2024, addressed significant fiscal issues, including the potential adoption of a single tax rate, school funding disparities, and strategies for managing budget surpluses. The meeting, which included members from the school committee and finance committee, focused on financial policies and future budget projections while considering the community’s needs.

Amherst Planning Board Debates Dormitory Classification Amid Zoning Concerns

Overview: The Amherst Planning Board meeting on October 30, 2024, featured discussions about zoning bylaws and their impact on future development projects, particularly focusing on the classification of a controversial dormitory project and the potential for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) under new state regulations. The board also deliberated on zoning amendments and their implications for housing and commercial spaces, with community input playing a role.

Amherst Town Council Delays School Construction Contract Amid Bid Protests

Overview: The Amherst Town Council meeting on October 25 focused on the elementary school building project, where progress has been stalled due to bid protests. The town had received three closely grouped bids for the construction project, with CTA Construction Managers submitting the lowest bid at $73.4 million. However, the execution of a contract with CTA Construction Managers has been paused because of bid protests filed by two construction industry organizations and one of the other bidders, questioning the eligibility of CTA Construction Managers for the contract.