Planning Board Aug 5, 2026

The Town of Amherst Planning Board held a remote meeting on August 5, 2026, primarily discussing two key agenda items related to local governance and development. First, the board reviewed a revised proposal for the East Amherst Local Historic District, which had been narrowed from 55 to 22 core historically significant properties to better preserve the town's architectural heritage while addressing concerns about development restrictions. The discussion included public comments and board member perspectives on balancing historic preservation with housing affordability and development needs. Second, the board conducted a public hearing on amendments to the zoning bylaw concerning clean energy infrastructure, including reorganizing submittal requirements and dimensional standards for solar and battery storage projects. After deliberation, the board voted unanimously to recommend adoption of the updated bylaw to the Town Council. Additionally, the board reviewed an Approval Not Required (ANR) subdivision plan for 100 University Drive, involving a lot split to facilitate potential future development, with conditions to ensure adequate parking and zoning compliance. The meeting also touched on ongoing housing discussions, zoning bylaw amendments related to habitable attic spaces, and upcoming planning and zoning applications. No direct contract awards or procurement decisions were made, but the discussions on zoning and historic district policies could influence future development and vendor opportunities in the town.