Amherst · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Town of Amherst public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Senior Center Operational Policies and Restrictions
The town addressed temporary inconveniences at the senior center caused by canopy painting and parking lot maintenance happening right during early voting. Staff and senior center members are actively helping guide voters around the construction.
Town E-Bike and E-Scooter Regulations
Town officials discussed ongoing public input for new regulations regarding electric bicycles and e-scooters. The board decided to keep public comments open and delay any final voting decision until November 30 to gather more feedback from local cyclists and residents.
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.
2190-2200 Wehrle Drive Multi-Family Development Variances
Young Development sought four area variances for setbacks and parcel size to split their 270-unit multi-family project into two financing phases. The site plan and building designs remain unchanged, featuring extensive landscaping and townhome-style units.
Proposed Lodging Occupancy Tax Request to State Legislature
The town established a 2.5% bed tax on short-term lodging to generate revenue for capital improvements and general town services.
2027-2032 Capital Improvement Program
The town reviewed its multi-million dollar capital plan focused heavily on essential infrastructure like wastewater treatment and highway paving.
Lafayette Boulevard Speeding and Traffic Calming
People living on Lafayette Boulevard are frustrated by drivers speeding to beat the traffic light at Main Street. The board suggested that neighbors could look into organizing a pilot program for speed bumps if they want to slow drivers down.
Palmdale Drive and Neighborhood Speeding & Cut-Through Traffic
Residents across Halston Parkway, Royal Parkway, and Lafayette Boulevard are worried about speeding cars cutting through their residential streets to avoid main thoroughfares. They want the town to install speed humps, radar signs, or road closures to protect children and pets walking in areas without sidewalks.
Crown Road Community Center Historic Oversight
The commission stepped in to ensure that exterior masonry and stone replacement at the Crown Road Community Center matches the historic character of the building, even though the project is exempt from standard permits due to using federal grant funds.
Pending Town Landmark Nominations
Two local landmark nominations, including the Architect Building and One Poster Court, are moving forward for town board review on July 27.