Amherst Zoning Board Advances Local Development with Special Permits

Overview: In a move for local development, the Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals recently approved a series of special permit applications for the construction of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and structures within the flood-prone Conservancy District.

Amherst Board Tackles Marijuana Regulation and Hemp Product Sales

Overview: The Amherst Board of Licensing recently convened to address a variety of issues, with updates on marijuana regulation and the sale of hemp-derived products taking center stage. The meeting covered routine license approvals and renewals, as well as discussions about potential changes to local bylaws in response to state regulations. The board engaged in a debate regarding the involvement of establishments in reporting the sale of hemp-derived products and considered inviting business owners to an upcoming meeting to clarify any concerns.

Amherst Eyes Traffic Calming and Recycling Changes Amidst Community Debate

Overview: The Amherst Town Services and Outreach Committee recently convened to discuss several issues, with the focal point being the proposed traffic calming measures on Heatherstone Road. The meeting also covered potential neighborhood speed limit changes, road and sidewalk improvements on Belchertown Road, updates on the organics collection program, and the transition to a single stream recycling system.

Amherst Town Council Tackles Hate Speech and Disruptions

Overview: The Amherst Town Council recently convened to address a variety of issues facing the community, most notably the challenges of managing hate speech and disruptions during public meetings. The council debated approaches to balancing the enforcement of civility with the protection of First Amendment rights.

Amherst Conservation Commission Tackles Wetland Preservation

Overview: The Amherst Conservation Commission met on March 27, 2024, to address various environmental concerns and development projects that pose potential impacts on local wetlands and conservation areas. The most newsworthy topic of the meeting was the discussion surrounding a significant violation involving unauthorized cutting and heavy equipment use on a landlocked parcel, leading to clear-cutting on the bank of a stream and in a bordering vegetated wetland (BVW). The commission issued a cease and desist order to the neighbor believed responsible for the violation and began coordinating with the damaged property’s landowner.