Community Resources Committee May 14, 2026

The Town of Amherst Community Resources Committee met on May 14, 2026, primarily to discuss the ongoing development of downtown design standards, including zoning designations and future commercial readiness of certain areas. Committee members debated the appropriateness of proposed zoning changes, sidewalk widths, and building heights, emphasizing the need for a forward-looking approach that balances historic preservation with future growth. The committee also addressed the process for appointing members to the Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA), reviewing the applicant pool and ultimately voting to declare the Planning Board candidate pool sufficient to proceed with interviews scheduled for May 28, 2026. Concerns were raised about the diversity and representativeness of applicants. The meeting concluded with procedural items including approval of prior meeting minutes and scheduling of upcoming interviews and meetings.