Amherst Committee Tackles Solar Bylaw, Candidate Pool Sufficiency

Overview: The Amherst Community Resources Committee recently engaged in an extensive and discussion surrounding the draft of a new solar bylaw and the sufficiency of the candidate pool for planning board appointments. The meeting, which was conducted remotely, highlighted the committee’s efforts to refine the solar bylaw, addressing the complexities of applicability, Nexus statements, and public comments on the preservation of farmland and forest land. Additionally, the committee wrestled with the challenge of ensuring a robust pool of candidates for upcoming planning board vacancies.

Amherst Committee Reviews Nuisance Property Bylaw, Debates Liability and Clarity

Overview: AMHERST, MA – The Amherst Governance, Organization, and Legislation Committee recently engaged in a review of the nuisance property bylaw aimed at enhancing its clarity, consistency, and actionability. Central to the discussions was the liability of property owners and individuals in charge of premises for infractions, alongside debates on the notification process and the definition of a nuisance property. Additional topics included the evaluation of the town manager, the extension of deadlines for the Charter Review Committee, and the paint stewardship resolution.

Amherst Zoning Board Deliberates on Flag Lot Proposal

Overview: The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals recently convened to deliberate on several special permit applications, with the most issue being a flag lot proposal by Jonathan Clay for a single-family house on Redgate Lane. This application, represented by engineer Bucky Sparkle, drew considerable public comment and board scrutiny, particularly around its potential impact on a large white pine tree and neighborhood water flow. Additionally, the board addressed a special permit for the conversion of a single-family dwelling into a non-owner-occupied duplex on North Whitney Street, which garnered concerns about neighborhood character and safety.

Amherst Finance Committee Tackles Crest Department Challenges and Library Project Costs

Overview: The recent meeting of the Amherst Finance Committee was marked by pivotal discussions on the future of the Crest Department and financial concerns surrounding the library project. Public commentary initiated a thorough debate with citizens expressing urgent concerns regarding the functions and resource allocation of both entities. The Crest Department’s operational challenges, such as the need for a qualified assistant director and accessible physical space, and the library project’s financial overruns and potential construction delays were at the forefront of the discussions.

Amherst Town Council Approves Construction Project Details

Overview: The Amherst Town Council has made notable decisions regarding the construction elements of a major project, highlighting the council’s commitment to budget adherence and community needs. The council voted unanimously to incorporate a backstop into the project’s base documents. Additionally, the inclusion of granite curbing in the base bid was approved following a debate over cost implications and potential damage from maintenance activities. The council also reviewed the 90% cost estimates, which fell below the $81 million budget set by the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA), and approved a substantial package of invoices related to the construction project.