Town Services and Outreach Committee May 7, 2026

The Town Services and Outreach Committee of Amherst, MA, held a meeting on May 7, 2026, primarily focused on reviewing and discussing recommendations for updating the town's street lighting policy. A team of University of Massachusetts Amherst students presented their research and proposed policy changes aimed at improving safety, reducing light pollution, and balancing environmental and financial concerns. Key procurement-related topics included potential implementation strategies such as retrofitting existing street lights with warmer color temperature bulbs, shielding attachments, and cost-effective gel covers to reduce glare and light pollution. The committee discussed the challenges of replacing or upgrading lighting infrastructure given budget and staffing constraints, and the importance of clear guidelines to support the Department of Public Works. There was also discussion about improving resident communication platforms for reporting lighting issues. The committee voted to accept minutes from a prior meeting and considered future agenda items, including potential appointments and further policy development. No formal contract awards or vendor selections were made during this meeting, but the discussion laid groundwork for future procurement and capital improvement projects related to street lighting upgrades.