Town Services and Outreach Committee May 21, 2026

The Town Services and Outreach Committee of Amherst, MA, met on May 21, 2026, to discuss several key topics related to waste management and town services. A significant portion of the meeting focused on the potential issuance of an exploratory Request for Proposals (RFP) for curbside compost collection and waste hauling services. Mimi Kaplan from the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission provided a detailed presentation on the considerations for implementing curbside composting, pay-as-you-throw models, and the role of the transfer station. The committee discussed the need for a draft RFP outlining decision points and cost scenarios, with a tentative timeline aiming for a draft by late July 2026. The discussion also covered funding opportunities, administrative costs, and the importance of a self-supporting enterprise fund model. Additionally, the committee approved town manager appointments to the historical commission and briefly discussed the development of a street light policy, considering the committee's potential advisory role. Motions to approve appointments and meeting minutes were passed unanimously, and the committee planned further discussions on waste management and street lighting policies.