Planning Board Apr 8, 2026

The Town of Amherst Planning Board held a remote meeting on April 8, 2026, primarily discussing proposed downtown design standards and a clean energy bylaw. The board reviewed consultant recommendations aimed at increasing housing density and improving design guidelines in the downtown area, with particular focus on zoning changes to incentivize redevelopment. Members debated the merits of phased adoption versus comprehensive implementation and considered the potential impacts on neighborhood character and development opportunities. The clean energy bylaw discussion centered on permitting processes for solar installations, balancing regulatory oversight with encouraging solar development. No formal votes or contract awards were reported, but the board planned to provide consolidated feedback to consultants and continue deliberations in future meetings. The meeting also touched on procedural matters such as meeting minutes and upcoming agenda items.