Town Council Apr 27, 2026

The Town Council of Amherst, MA held its regular meeting on April 27, 2026, which included several procurement-related discussions and votes. A public hearing was conducted on an Eversource petition to install an underground conduit at the College Street and Dickinson Street intersection, which was unanimously approved by the council. The council also considered multiple consent agenda items, including zoning amendments and Community Preservation Act (CPA) appropriations. A notable procurement discussion involved a $330,000 CPA funding request for restoration and preservation of the Jones Library, which was ultimately rejected by the council due to concerns about supplanting and fiscal governance, with a vote tally of 4 in favor, 7 against, and 2 abstentions. Additionally, the council discussed the closure of Hampshire College and the potential implications for land use, zoning, and community services, emphasizing the need for strategic planning and possible zoning amendments to guide future development and protect town interests. A motion was passed requiring the town manager and relevant department heads to appear before the council to provide details on an executive order related to interactions between town staff and federal immigration agents. The meeting also included presentations on zoning processes and clean energy bylaw amendments, with referrals to appropriate committees for further hearings. Overall, the meeting addressed key procurement decisions, budget appropriations, and policy considerations impacting future town planning and infrastructure projects.