Amherst · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Town of Amherst public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
2027 Town Budget and Tax Levy Increase
The town board is reviewing the proposed 2027 town budget and capital improvement program, along with a local law to override the tax levy limit if necessary. These financial plans will guide municipal spending and public investments for the upcoming year.
Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exemptions
A disabled veteran inquired about the town's plans to opt into the new New York State 100% veterans property tax exemption.
New York State Comptroller Audits
Drescher and Malecki presented the 2025 financial audit, giving the town a clean, unmodified opinion and noting strong operating fund balances and sales tax revenues.
Budget error on board's 2026 budget
The comptroller's office charged a 2025 expense to the arts board's 2026 budget. The treasurer will get it removed so it doesn't shrink this year's spending power.
Grant Funding for Historic Design Guidelines
The board weighed whether to require developers of larger projects to go through an informal preliminary review before their official planning board submission. While early reviews help catch design flaws, members want to ensure smaller projects aren't bogged down by extra hurdles.
Settlement of Lopez Litigation
The town approved a $2,350,000 bond resolution to fund the settlement of a lawsuit involving the town.
2026 Community Development Action Plan
The town is moving forward with its draft 2026 action plan, expecting about $625,000 in CDBG funds and $830,000 in HOME funds to support housing rehabilitation, public services, and infrastructure in qualifying areas.