Planning Board Apr 22, 2026

The Town of Amherst Planning Board held a remote meeting on April 22, 2026, focusing on several key planning and zoning topics. Significant procurement-related discussions included the review and potential adoption of downtown design standards, which may require zoning changes to implement design guidelines for new developments. The board also discussed the clean energy bylaw, a comprehensive zoning amendment addressing solar and battery storage regulations, with plans for a public hearing in May. A motion was passed recommending that the Town Council reject the proposed East Amherst Local Historic District in favor of site-specific preservation strategies, reflecting concerns about development restrictions. Additionally, the board approved an ANR subdivision plan for a property at 107 Henry Street to create two lots, with conservation land acquisition involved. The meeting also addressed challenges related to staffing changes impacting zoning amendment processes and ongoing efforts to revise mixed-use building standards and the Priority Residential Parcel (PRP) zoning, with a motion to retract a prior recommendation to Town Council to allow further refinement. The board emphasized continued work on housing and zoning initiatives despite limited staff support. No contract awards or vendor selections were reported, but the discussions indicate forthcoming zoning amendments and regulatory changes that could affect future development and procurement activities in Amherst.