Amherst · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Town of Amherst public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Neglect of Historic Property at 22 Chateau Terrace
Residents complained that a historically significant home on Chateau Terrace has been neglected and damaged by adjacent construction.
Economic Development
Amherst just broke ground on a massive $50 million sports and entertainment complex. This huge new 716 Sports Complex is going to completely shake up the local recreation scene.
Special Needs Preschool Expansion at 25 Chateau Terrace
Bornhava sought variances to expand its special needs preschool facility to accommodate a waiting list of over 175 children, drawing minor neighborhood questions regarding drainage and parking.
Harlem Road Community Center Historic Front Door Restoration
The town is restoring the historic front entryway and doors at the Harlem Road Community Center using federal grant funds. The project involves careful wood restoration, hardware replication, and transom window preservation.
Accessory Dwelling Unit Pilot Program Expansion
Homeowners are utilizing the town's ADU pilot program to build separate living spaces for family members. The board approved two separate permits for properties on Getzville Road and Wayside Court.
Historic Preservation Commission Vacancy
The board interviewed candidates to fill an open seat and recommended Kayla Clark to join the commission.
Transparency for Historic Properties
The commission wants to make sure prospective home buyers know if a house has a historic 'blue rating' before they buy it. They discussed adding these designations to real estate listing data to prevent surprises for new owners.
Design Advisory Board Rules of Order
The advisory board reviewed its operational rules and procedures to streamline how it handles meetings and reviews projects.
Holland Heights 17-Lot Subdivision
The board finalized the 17-lot residential subdivision on Dodge Road, ensuring all easements and drainage agreements are properly filed.
Solar Facility Access Road Variance at 1050 New Road
National In Design received a lot width variance to create an access road for an approved solar project, matching neighborhood standards without causing negative impacts.
South Linden Street Multi-Family Townhouse Development
A 28-unit multi-family townhouse development with garages is planned off Wehrle Drive, serving as a transition between commercial areas and single-family homes. The board approved the site plan, negative declaration, and a sidewalk waiver for McIntire Road.
Migrant Housing
A recent stabbing at the Amherst Red Roof Inn has residents and local leaders asking tough questions about safety and the town's ongoing migrant housing plan. It's bringing the whole relocation effort under a harsh spotlight as people worry about community security.