Nancy A. Demers

The meeting included discussions on several key agenda items. A presentation was given regarding the Christian Hill Rd (Jacobson Farm) project, focusing on expanded Conditional Use Permit (CUP) requirements due to increased buffer impacts from an extended sidewalk, and further discussion was held regarding the Open Space easement and access to conservation land. A DPW representative detailed Amherst's status as an MS-4 community, outlining the Stormwater Management Program, water quality impairments (bacteria and phosphorus), and ongoing initiatives like system mapping and Watershed Management Plan updates. The Commission also reviewed a conceptual plan for the Bon Terrain gravel pit development, addressing concerns related to loam removal from buffers, potential wetland impacts, groundwater modeling, and whether the activity requires a Town excavation permit despite the site being a grandfathered gravel pit.

The meeting included updates on several key projects. For the Christian Hill update, discussions focused on the TransFarmations application, specifically the proposed 8' wide gravel path and a 50' wide conservation easement. Regarding the North 02 update, significant cost estimates were cited for stream crossing ramp construction, ADA compliant trail conversion, and boardwalk installation, leading to consideration of a state-approved no-build scenario or an alternatives study. Sub-committee reports covered communications, including planning a bike rodeo and producing newsletters; project updates noting conditional Planning Board approval for County Road developments requiring conservation areas; a finance update concerning outreach for potential funding and clarification on previously donated funds; and a halt on trail clearing work at the Shenks/McOsker trail pending discussions with the Board of Selectmen.

The Planning Board meeting involved several public hearings and completeness reviews. Key discussions included tabling a proposed Zoning Ordinance Amendments hearing regarding Short-Term Rentals (STRs) and setting it for a second hearing on January 21, 2026, pending Town Council discussion. For Case PZ19994-100725 concerning Kent's Service Station, the Board continued the application to February 18, 2026, as the applicant determined a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) related to the Aquifer District maintenance requirements would be necessary. The Board approved lot line adjustments for Vonderosa Properties, LLC (Case PZ20005-120925) and for Tanya and Sean Brandt et al. (Case PZ20004-120925), with both adjustments finalized as submitted following completeness acceptance. Amendments related to Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), zoning regulations, setbacks, impact fees, and permitted uses in several zones were reviewed, with several forwarded to the Warrant for a second hearing, including one vote to delete a section concerning ADU owner occupancy pending further review.

The meeting addressed several key agenda items. The committee nominated and selected a Vice-Chair. Discussions included a review of the Strategic Plan presentation given to the Board of Selectmen, noting the recent response to a 9-1-A request regarding past plans, and planning the next steps with the Ways & Means Committee. Comments on the Labelle workforce housing plan were discussed, specifically advocating against paving an access way. Sub-committee reports covered finance, including strategy development for fundraising and determining specific project funding needs, ensuring dedicated use of funds through escrowed accounts, and proposals for trail improvements such as the rail bed south of Boston Post Road and trail clearing. Additionally, the potential acquisition and use of a prefabricated bridge were discussed, as well as necessary collaboration with Town Hall Staff on communications.

The meeting focused on several key discussion points with Community Development Staff. Topics included the Truell Sawmill project involving clearing a path, potential for a picnic area, and installing a plaque. The Commission is also working on creating wooden signs for historic locations and preparing for America 250. Staff offered to check on existing plans for the America 250 event. The Commission plans to continue using LiDAR imagery to locate stonewalls and historic resources. A non-public work session is planned for February to discuss the Commission's webpage and the potential creation of a Facebook page. There was a discussion regarding the Vonderosa project, tree clearing, and the location of removed stonewall pieces bordering the new road; Commissioners were encouraged to attend Planning Board meetings. Finally, the Commission discussed GIS initiatives and potential collaboration with the Community Development Office.