Town Manager Report for January 12, 2026

Amherst Indy January 15, 2026 0
Amherst Town Seal

Photo:amherstma.gov

Editor’s note: Town Manager Paul Bockelman submits a comprehensive report to the Town Council, usually at the second Town Council meeting of each month. The reports, usually 9 to 16 pages in length, provide up-to-date information on what is happening within and across town departments. The Manager’s Report is usually one of the last items on the agenda and is often taken up late at night, leaving little time for Bockelman to do more than mention a few highlights and this is usually all that gets entered into the council minutes. What follows is a complete, unedited version of the Town Manager’s Report. All Town Manager Reports are available on the town’s website here: Town Manager Reports =

TOWN MANAGER

  • Welcome New Town Council: 
  • Welcome to our four new members of the Town Council: Jill Brevik, Amber CanoMartin, Andy Churchill, and Sam MacLeod!
  • Town staff provided an orientation session for the new members. Organized by the Executive Assistant to the Town Manager and Communications Manager, the orientation included completing forms for the Human Resources Department, reviewing equipment and protocols with the Information Technology Department, a financial status report with the Finance Director, and a review of Town Council policies and procedures with the Clerk of the Council.
  • The next Cuppa’ Joe is scheduled for Friday, January 9th with Assistant Town Manager David Ziomek as my featured guest. We will be at Atkins Market from 8:00 – 9:30 a.m. Please join us! 
  • On Friday, December 12th, I was joined by Planning & Economic Development Director Jeff Bagg at Masuda’s at 17 Kellogg Avenue. We had a very good turnout and a robust discussion about Jeff, economic development, and thoughts the future of the town.
  • In response to suggestions from the public, we will be mixing these events up in the coming months by scheduling a session in the late afternoon/early evening. Times and locations are still to be determined.
  • The “Cuppa’ Joe with Paul” coffees are a monthly event. Residents and others are welcome to share their concerns, offer suggestions, or just get to know each other.
  • All About Amherst: Civic Academy:
  • We’ve concluded our first-ever Civic Academy! Over 8 weeks last fall, 20 residents attended weekly sessions where they learned about our local government directly from Town staff, built connections with neighbors, and learned how to get involved.
  • Sessions covered 20 departments including the libraries and schools. Each session included relevant department presentations, interactive activities, and/or tours. The final session of the program featured a graduation ceremony, during which certificates of completion were presented to participants.
  • Many participants already have or plan to stay involved by attending events, attending public meetings, volunteer for board/committee, and/or running for office. For example, Dakota Costa was just elected to the Housing Authority which she learned about through the Civic Academy.
  • Also during this program, we used our PocketTalk translation devices to ensure a resident who was not a native English speaker was able to fully participate in the program by providing instant interpretation.
  • We plan to host this program every year. Below is our graduating class with organizers Samantha Giffen and Angela Mills.
  • Below is a photo of the Civic Academy attendees and staff who organized it.
  • Recruiting Now for Committees: I am recruiting members to serve on all committees. Please help spread the word. We are prioritizing membership on the following committees and are scheduling interviews now:
  • Amherst Black Reparations Committee o Cable-Advisory-Committee  
  • Transportation and Parking Commission

▪ The Town established the Transportation and Parking Commission (TPC), to address a broad range of transportation and parking issues. The Town is seekingthree residents to serve on the committee, and they should have interests and/or backgrounds related to transportation design, safety, and equity; public transit; pedestrian and bicycle transportation; parking; street lighting; or other relevant areas.  

• National Girls and Women in Sports Day:  

  • Amherst Recreation and Amherst College Athletics invites girls and non-binary youth in grades 4-8 to a fun-filled day of sports and fitness!  
  • National Girls and Women in Sports Day (NGWSD) is dedicated to honoring the achievements of girls and women in sports and aims to recognize the power of sports and play in unlocking limitless potential.

Participants will have a unique and welcoming opportunity to explore various sports, play, and have fun together. The participants will be divided into smaller groups to enjoy different fundamental skills in a variety of sports (no previous experience necessary). The event will feature activities led by women’s sports teams, including: squash, golf, crew, track/cross country, soccer, field hockey, softball, and volleyball.

  • Doors open at 11:00 a.m. for registration and snacks. The program will begin at 11:30 AM with a chat with current scholar-athletes followed by a dynamic stretch warm-up. Participants will then be divided into groups so they can try different sports and games through a continuous timed rotation. Parents are able to drop-off their children after 11:00 a.m. and pick them up at the conclusion of the event at 2:45 p.m.
  • Following the event, all participants and their families are invited to cheer on the Amherst College Women’s Hockey team as they take on Colby College at 3:00 p.m. in Orr Rink. Admission is free and free pizza will be provided! o More information here:

https://www.amherstma.gov/calendar.aspx?EID=34656#:~:text=Saturday%2C%20Februa ry%207%2C%202026,day%20of%20sports%20and%20fitness!

DEPARTMENT UPDATES

Administration and Finance

  • Finance:
    • CPAC: The Community Preservation Act Committee is deliberating on the applications it received for funding. The Town received about $6.5m in requests. We have about $2.4m in available funds. The Committee held a public hearing on December 11th. The Committee will make its recommendation to the Town Council in within the next month.

All proposals can be found here: CPA Proposals o Resident Capital Requests: The Town accepted resident capital requests until January 5th.

This is an opportunity for residents to submit requests for capital projects they believe the Town should prioritize. These requests are presented to the Joint Capital Planning Committee to be considered as part of the Capital Improvement Program. 

  • Newsletter: The Principal Assessor is finalizing a newsletter that will be sent to all property owners. The goal is to provide more information about taxes, assessing, and encourage property owners to take advantage of all exemptions available. The Principal Assessor will also be working with the Senior Center to share information.
  • Human Resources: 
    • The Department continues to recruit, interview, and hire numerous Town positions including Police, Fire, DPW, and CRESS positions. 
  • Town Clerk:
    • Swearing-in Ceremonies: 
      • The Town Clerk swore in newly elected official on January 5th. By taking the oath, elected officials formally accept the responsibility to serve the community with integrity, fairness, and respect for the law in their roles.
      • The Town Clerk also swore in new firefighters, police officers, and residents elected or appointed to Town committees. 

Census: State law mandates an annual listing of residents as of January 1st each year. Be on the lookout for your census form in your mailbox the end of this month. Even if no changes are necessary, households must return it to maintain an active voting status.

Failure to respond for two consecutive years shall result in removal from the active voting list and may result in removal from the voter registration rolls. You may return your census by mail, in-person at the Town Clerk’s office, via drop box, or email to census@amherstma.gov. Residents can continue to renew dog licenses with their census. o Dog Licensing:  

  • The owner or keeper of a dog over the age of 6 months shall obtain a license for the dog from the licensing authority in the city or town in which the dog is kept. (M.G.L c. 140 § 137).
    • Dog licenses expire on March 31st. Residents may pre-order dog licenses either online, by mail, or in-person. The fee for a neutered/spayed dog is $5.00 and $15.00 if intact. Please contact our office at (413) 259-3035 or email townclerk@amherstma.gov if a previously licensed dog no longer lives at your address or passed away so we can amend our records.
  • ONLINE: Visit www.amherstma.gov/payments and select the appropriate link. For newly licensed dogs: upload the rabies and spay/neuter certificates. For renewals: upload if vaccinated or spayed/neutered since previous license was issued.
  • BY MAIL:  Please include 1.  Rabies and spay/neuter certificate (if applicable) 2.  Check made payable to the “Town of Amherst” in the appropriate fee 3.  Self-addressed, stamped envelope.  Requests that don’t include an envelope will be held in the Town Clerk’s office for pick-up.
  • IN-PERSON:  Please present a rabies and spay/neuter certificate (if applicable), and payment in the form of cash or check.
    • Ethics Training: Town staff, board/committee members, and elected officials are all required to participate in Conflict-of-Interest Law Trainings provided by the State Ethics Commission. Public employees must complete the online training program and acknowledge receipt of the Conflict-of-Interest Law summary within 30 days of election or appointment to a Town position. Create an account and access the trainings here:  https://massethicstraining.skillburst.com/ Automatic reminders will be sent when it is time to renew to existing public employees.
    • Professional Development: Town Clerk Amber Martin will be attending the Massachusetts Town and City Clerks Association 2026 Joint Winter Conference in Devens. The MTCA will offer a variety of educational sessions tailored specifically to the complex duties of City and Town Clerks such as,election law updates, records management, budgeting, and emerging issues likeAI in municipal operations. These sessions help Clerk’s stay current with state laws, regulations, and best practices that affect their daily work.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Department:

  • Activities:
  • National Day of Racial Healing: 
  • o The Town will celebrate the National Day of Racial Healing with a workshop for staff on January 16th, and one for the community on January 20th.  The community event will take place at the Bangs Community Center from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and will include a community conversation on racial healing, part of our Becoming Beloved Community series. o This national observance, held on the Tuesday after Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, centers on racial healing, truth-telling, and collective action. o Visit www.dayofracialhealing.org  to learn more.

o The Making of Amherst’s Global Village display highlights cultures and racial groups in Amherst are featured in panels on display in Town Hall on display from January 6 – 30th. A digital version of the display can be found here: The Making of Amherst’s Global Village Display

  • Strategic Plan: Work has begun on the Department’s fiveyear strategic plan, which includes work on the Town

Manager’s goal to continue the work of the department for community members, staff, and Town Council. The Department’s Strategic Plan can be found here: DEI Strategic Plan

  • Global Village: Save the date of April 11th for the 2026 Amherst Global Village which will take place in the high school on April 11th.

Liberatory Visioning: 

  • The Liberatory Visioning Project has been led by the Department and is an initiative aimed at creating a more inclusive and welcoming community for all residents. This process is designed to bring members of the Town together to develop a shared vision for a liberated community.  The DEI Department worked with Dr. Love and the final report can be found HERE  
  • The Department is beginning a new series of departmental trainings across all Town departments. Workshops resume next month.
  • Outreach:
    • The Department published an annual report which can be found HEREHere is the link to the January Newsletter o Youth Empowerment: Morning Movement and Mentoring has been nominated for an Innovation Award from the Massachusetts Municipal Association. We are very hopeful this important will be honored at the MMA’s annual meeting later this month.
    • The Department continues to offer programming with events planned for February (Reality Fair) and March (Entrepreneurship). 
      • The Game of Real Life is an interactive game that will assist students in career exploration, life management, and financial literacy. Students will be assigned a career, face unexpected life challenges, and plan a budget, such as learning about banking, debt, and taxes.
      • The Reality Fair is for young people in grades 6-12 who want to join a free five-week program where they will learn the skills needed to develop a business and actively create and sell their own products, getting hands on experience in the process. Sessions will take place weekly on Saturday March 7th through Saturday April 4th from 10:30-12 at the Bangs Community Center. Materials and snacks will be provided.
  • Resident Oversight Board:
    • The Resident Oversight Board Consultants presented their work to the Town Council on November 3rd and their report was advanced to the Town Council which referred it to the GOL Committee. The Committee will begin reviewing the proposal after the Town Council reorganizes in January.
  • Police Protocols: 
    • CRESS, the Emergency Communications Center (ECC/Dispatch), Police, Human Resources, and Town Manager worked extensively over the past two months to research, write, review, and finalize policies for the dispatching of community responders.
    • I am pleased to announce that the Emergency Communication Center is now dispatching calls to Community Responders. 
    • As a group, we wrote, edited, re-edited and re-thought the major policies to enable Community Responders to be dispatched directly by the ECC. 
    • I thank and give enormous credit to CRESS Director Camille Theriaque and her team and Police Chief Ting and his staff, and ECC Director Jason Rushford for contributing to the successful launch. The Town Attorney has reviewed the policies from a legal and liability perspective.

Public Safety

Fire Department:

Equipment: Two new major pieces of equipment have been delivered to the Town. 

  • Ladder Truck: The new ladder truck includes sustainability enhancements to reduce fuel use. We anticipate it will be placed in service in mid-January and will operate out of North Station.

Engine/Pumper: The new engine/pumper will also operate out of North Station. It was placed in service on December 9th. The total cost of the engine was about $880,000. The engine also includes sustainability enhancements to reduce fuel use.

Staffing:  

The Town’s newest firefighter, Nicolas Sandoval, was sworn into duty on January 5th. He previously served the Town as a member of the Department of Public Works. He will now spend the next four weeks completing his orientation.

The Amherst Fire Department currently has an opening for fulltime and is accepting applications at amherstma.gov/jobs.

  • Police Department:
    • Staffing:
      • Three new officers – Tatiana Sirbu, Erik Lamotte, and Nichole Hubbard – graduated from the Police Academy on December 12th and have begun their twelve weeks of field training.
  • Nicole L. Hubbard is graduate of Belchertown High School earned a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Western New England University in Springfield, MA. She previously interned at the Amherst Police Department in 2024.
  • Tatiana Sirbu is a graduate of Agawam High School and earned the Staff
  • Instructors’ award from the Holyoke Police Academy. She was previously employed as Security at Baystate Medical Center.
  • Erik D.LaMotte is a graduate of Amherst Regional High School and earned an associate’s degree in Business Management from Holyoke Community College. Two new officers have been sworn into duty. Hannah Harris and Genesis Rivera.

o Chief Ting served on the Police Chief Review Committee for the Town of Shutesbury.

  • Community Responders for Equity, Safety, and Service:
    • Food Insecurity:
      • The CRESS Department is providing short-term funding from one of its grants to support the community breakfast held at the Unitarian Universalist Society of Amherst.  This support along with the support of other individual contributions will allow the continuation of serving hot, nutritious breakfast to guests in Craig’s Doors shelters as well as all other guests 8-10 a.m. every Wednesday.The Town developed a list of free food resources. Hot meals are available to anyone every day of the week at either the Survival Center or at Not Bread Alone. This is in addition to Meals on Wheels and other opportunities to select fresh fruit, vegetables, and other food.
      CRESS Cares: CRESS is collecting warm clothes and personal care items to support the unhoused Neighbors they work with. Donation bins for both the Community Food Drive and CRESS Cares are available at Town Hall, Bangs Community Center, the Police Department, and the Amherst Visitor Center on South Pleasant Street.Staffing: Terrell (T.J.) Jones will begin his duties as a Community Responder on January 12th. Mr. Jones has experience working at Bay State Hospital and at Behavioral Health Network as a crisis counselor.

    • Funding: 
      • The Town – with significant assistance from our State Legislators – secured continued funding from non-Town sources for the CRESS Department under the Equitable Approaches to Public Safety (EAPS) program. The Town secured $188,244 in funding for FY26 so supplement the funds provided by the Town.EAPS is a program within the Division of Violence and Injury Prevention in the State Department of Public Health. EAPS works with different municipalities to develop and implement comprehensive public safety reform. Using a public safety reform partnership and broad stakeholder involvement to explore various types of alternative response models ranging from co-response with law enforcement to stand alone clinical response. 
    • Operations:
      • Dispatch: 
  • CRESS, Police, Human Resources, and Town Manager worked extensively over the past two months to research, write, review, and finalize policies for the dispatching of community responders.
  • The Emergency Communication Center is now dispatching calls to Community Responders.
  • As a group, we wrote, edited, re-edited and re-thought the major policies to enable Community Responders to be dispatched directly by the ECC.
  • I thank and give enormous credit to CRESS Director Camille Theriaque and her team and Police Chief Ting and his staff, and ECC

Director Jason Rushford for contributing to the successful launch. The Town Attorney has reviewed the policies from a legal and liability perspective.

CRESS Connections: Cress Connections is a grant funded program for youth operating in the Town’s schools. The most recent workshop focused on robotics (STEM) with a book and robot project.

▪ Newsletter: The Department has produced a newsletter which can be found here: CRESS Newsletter 

Community Services

  • Public Health:
    • Respiratory Illness: 
      • Levels of influenza-like illness (ILI) are high, the highest they’ve been in the past six years. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) is reporting very high and rising levels of influenza activity statewide as we move through peak flu season. Influenza A (H3N2) is the dominant strain circulating this season. This is a mutated strain that changed late in the year after the flu vaccine formula was finalized. Sadly, influenza has been associated with the deaths of three pediatric patients in Massachusetts.
      • COVID-19 and RSV rates remain low; however, cases are on the rise.
      • Hospitals across Massachusetts are continuing to see high numbers of patients seeking care for respiratory illnesses. In Hampshire County, during the week of December 21st (most recent data available), 18.9% of Emergency Department (ED) visits were related to acute respiratory diseases; 10% of these were influenza related. This is double the number of visits that were reported two weeks earlier. ED visits for COVID and RSV during the month of December were low, less than 2% of all visits.
      • As of December 30, 2025, local wastewater surveillance shows an upward trend in COVID-19 viral concentrations, suggesting increasing transmission in the community but at levels that are still considered low.
  • Vaccines:
    • Vaccination still matters. Even though this year’s flu vaccine is not the best match for the virus that is currently circulating it can still provide protection against severe illness. It is not too late to get a flu vaccine!  There is plenty of flu season left as it normally stretches well into March. It is also not too late to get vaccinated against COVID-19. Levels are low now but are expected to increase as winter wears on.
    • COVID and flu vaccines are widely available at local pharmacies. Healthcare providers should be able to vaccinate eligible individuals for RSV. RSV vaccine is recommended for adults 75 and older and adults 50-74 with risk factors. Pregnant women should get an RSV vaccine between 32 and 36 weeks of pregnancy.
    • The Town’s Public Health Department can provide COVID and flu vaccines to people who are homebound or uninsured/underinsured. Call 413-259-0310 to schedule an appointment.
    • Unfortunately, vaccination rates, especially among children, continue to decline substantially both nationally and locally. As of December 27th, 2025, only 14.6% of Amherst residents have been vaccinated against COVID-19 and 25.2% have been vaccinated against influenza.

For those who begin to experience flu symptoms – which include high fever, chills, muscle aches, headache, extreme fatigue, cough, sore throat, and congestion – antiviral medications, such as Tamiflu are available by prescription. When started early, these medications can significantly reduce the severity of illness. Parents are encouraged to seek medical advice promptly if they or their children develop flu-like symptoms. 

  • Spending time indoors and around larger groups increases the likelihood of exposure to respiratory viruses. The following everyday measures can help prevent illness:
  • Wash hands frequently with soap and water;
  • Stay home when sick; return to daily activities when symptoms have resolved but wear a mask until you are completely recovered;
  • Cover coughs and sneezes with your upper arm or a tissue, not your hand;
  • Consider wearing a mask in crowded indoor settings, especially if you or a loved one is at higher risk.
  • Winter Health and Safety Tips: Public Health has put together the following infographic outlining ways to stay healthy and safe this winter.

▪ The Town of Amherst prioritizes the safety and well-being of all community members during this time. We urge everyone to take necessary precautions, check on vulnerable neighbors, and utilize available resources. For more information about the warming centers, please contact the Public Health Department at 413- 259-3077 or email publichealth@amherstma.gov  

▪ Daytime Warming Centers: The following locations have been identified as daytime warming centers. These are municipal buildings that are heated and will be open during their normal operating hours. Anyone in need of a warm place during the extreme cold is encouraged to visit. Please note that holiday closures may impact operating hours.

• The following locations have been identified as daytime warming centers during the cold winter season:

  • Bangs Community Center (70 Boltwood Walk)  o Jones Library Temporary Location (101 University Drive)  o Munson Memorial Library (1046 South East Street) o North Amherst Library (8 Montague Road) o Town Hall (4 Boltwood Avenue) ▪ After-Hours Options:
    • Craig’s Doors will be providing after-hours support. Residents in need of assistance can contact 413-256-0704 for information on available shelter space or resources after standard hours. The Amherst Police Department is open 24/7. Individuals are welcome to warm up in the lobby during the coldest nights. Space is limited. 
    • If your heating system malfunctions during this extreme cold and your landlord is unresponsive, please contact the Town of Amherst. From 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, call Inspections Services at 413-259-3030. Outside of these hours, call the Police Department’s business line at 413-259-3000. 
  • State-wide Initiatives:
    • The State Department of Public Health’s Office of Local and Regional Health

(OLRH) is embracing a newpartnership with the Massachusetts Municipal Association (MMA) to increase the visibility of local public health with municipal leaders. OLRH will be exhibiting on SAPHE 2.0 (State Action for Public Health Excellence) – which requires local public health to meet certain performance standards – and Metrik – a statewide data collection system – at the MMA conference.

  • The Coalition for Local Public Health will also be exhibiting and welcomes attendees to stop by their booth to learn more about local public health efforts across the Commonwealth.
  • Nicotine Free Generation Regulations:
    • In December, the Board of Health voted to include the Nicotine Free Generation

(NFG) provision in the Town’s tobacco regulations “Restricting the Sale of Tobacco and Nicotine Products”.

  • The Nicotine Free Generation policy prohibits the sale of nicotine products – including cigarettes, vapes, smokeless tobacco, and nicotine pouches – in Amherst to anyone born after January 1, 2005.
    • Unlike traditional tobacco control measures that focus on specific age groups, NFG phases out nicotine sales over generations, effectively cutting off the pipeline of future smokers and nicotine users.
      • Amherst is the fourth Hampshire County to enact the regulation, joining Belchertown, Pelham and South Hadley. Leverett joined Conway in enacting the regulation in Franklin County.
      • The new regulation will go into effect on January 1st, 2026 but will not be enforced until July 1st, 2026. Public Health Department staff will use the intervening six months to educate tobacco retailers about the new policy.
  • Senior Services:
    • Program Changes: Renovations to the Bangs Community Center have begun. The Glass Room will be offline for programming for the time being. All classes will be maintained, although some adjustments have occurred. See Senior Services staff for further information about these changes.
    • Outreach: Amherst Senior Services’ gift donation program delivered gift bags of holiday cheer to 50 seniors in the community. Bags featured a blanket, hot cocoa, and an accompanying mug, along with candy, fruit, and gift cards to a local supermarket. Thanks to the many community members who donated gift cards, nominated seniors, and delivered the bags. 
    • Newsletter: The January/February newsletter from the Department of Senior Services – Amherst Senior Spirit – which includes a listing of the dozens of workshops and other activities being offered by the Department, is available Here Hard copies can be picked up in the Senior Center lounge.
    • Amherst Café: Twice a month on the first and third Mondays, join staff and neighbors at the “Amherst Café.” The purpose of the Café is to provide a space where individuals with mild to moderate memory loss and the people who care for them – can have fun with others.
  • Recreation:
    • Morning Movement and Mentoring Program (MMMP):
      • MMMP has been nominated for an Innovation Award from the Massachusetts Municipal Association. We are very hopeful this important will be honored at the MMA’s annual meeting later this month. The MMA’s Kenneth Pickard Municipal Innovation Award is presented each year to recognize municipalities that have developed unique and creative projects and programs to increase the effectiveness of local government. Information on the award can be found here: https://www.mma.org/connect-351/awards/municipal-innovations/ ▪ MMMP had its end of season breakfast celebration on December 23rd. ▪ The photo below shows the participants in the MMMP.
  • Winterfest: 
    • Planning is in full swing for this week-long celebration during school vacation week, February 14-21. In collaboration with many community partners, the Recreation Department will host a variety of free and affordable events for residents and visitors of all ages to embrace the winter season.The week will culminate with the ever-popular Fire & Ice / Lumineria on February 21st which is an event organized in cooperation with the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce and Amherst Business Improvement District.

    • Cherry Hill Working Group:
      • The Cherry Hill Working Group held its first meeting this week.
      • The Working Group’s charge is to advise the Town Manager on:
      • Long-term viability of golf operations at Cherry Hill Golf Course; ▪ Innovative strategies for course management and fiscal sustainability; ▪ Alternative/compatible uses of the property.
      • The members of the Working Group are:
  • Sanjay Arwade, Recreation Commission representative selected by the Recreation Commission
  • Ryan Diplock, Resident member – Grew up in North Amherst near the golf course, business background and education, golf enthusiast with numerous ideas about the future of golf, has golfed at over 100 courses in the state
  • Sarah Goff, Resident member – public health professor at the
    • University with a strong interest in a broad range of activities – not just golf – for Cherry Hill. Her children are Nordic skiers and play disc golf – and she is a runner that appreciates the open space regarding people’s health
  • Hilary Matheson, Resident member – Active golfer, pickleball player, and walker. Serves as Tournament Director at Amherst Golf Club and Ladies Golf Captain at a country club in Wales. Currently volunteers at the Senior Center and with English as a Second Language program. • Michele Miller, Resident member and former member of the Town Council – nearby resident who is a golfer and who has children on the Amherst Regional High School golf team and are avid golfers.
  • Chris Pariseau, Recreation Commission representative selected by the Recreation Commission
  • Anurag Sharma, Resident member – professor at the Isenberg School of Management at the University who thought his graduate students would be interested in this project.
  • Former Town Councilor Michele Miller was elected to chair the Working Group and Recreation Commission member Chris Pariseau was elected as vice chair.

Conservation and Development  

Photo: HUD.gov
  • CDBG: The Town of Amherst is accepting proposals for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding until Friday, January 23, 2026 at 12:00 pm. CDBG grants are designed to enhance the quality of life for residents in the community by supporting projects that will benefit low- to moderate-income individuals and neighborhoods. The CDBG Advisory Committee, with assistance from Town staff, oversees the application and public input process.  
  • Housing: 

o South Amherst Campus Presentation: The Town is working with Joy Squared Architects exploring redevelopment options for the South Amherst School at 1001 South East

Street. 

o Housing Production Plan: The Town Council adopted the Housing Production Plan which was developed by the Planning Department and its consultant with significant contributions from the Planning Board, Municipal Affordable Housing Trust, the Town Council’s Community Resources Committee and others over the past 18 months. The plan will provide a framework for addressing the affordable housing needs of low- and moderate-income people in Amherst over the next five years.  The Plan was adopted by Town Council on December 8, 2025 and has been submitted to the State for its review.  Click here to read the plan:  Housing Production Plan –  1208–2025  

  • Planning:

o Proposed East Amherst Local Historic District: 

  • A proposed Local Historic District is currently under consideration for East Amherst, centering on the intersection of Main Street, North East Street, and South East Street. This area features well-preserved historic buildings that together create a unique and cohesive look into Amherst’s past.
    • The Local Historic District Commission invites the community to participate in a virtual public meeting about the proposed East Amherst Local Historic District on Monday, January 12 at 7:00 PM via Zoom (Zoom Link). The purpose of this meeting is to hear from property owners and Amherst residents regarding their comments, concerns, and questions about this proposed district. View the full meeting agenda here.
  • Follow the link below to view a Story Map that gives a tour of the proposed Historic District and highlights some of the significant people and places featured in this foundational part of Amherst. East Amherst Local Historic District Story Map
  • The draft study report for the proposed district has been submitted to the Massachusetts Historical Commission for review and comment. The report will also be reviewed by the Amherst Planning Board and Historical Commission. Following the 60-day review period, a second public hearing will be held to discuss the comments and feedback received prior to submitting a final report to Town Council. Read the draft report here.
    • A proposed Local Historic District (LHD) that includes the area about the East

Amherst Village center is currently under consideration. Since fall 2024, a Study Committee, working with a consultant, has been diligently researching and documenting properties in the area. This area features well-preserved historic buildings that together create a unique and cohesive look into Amherst’s past. 

  • Property owners within the proposed district boundaries will be receiving a survey in the mail to gather feedback and comments on the proposed district. The survey can also be filled out online at the following link: East Amherst LHD Survey.
    • Amherst residents who do not live in the proposed district are also welcome to provide thoughts or comments on the proposal via the survey as well.  
  • Facilities:
  • Munson Library:
    • The Town obtained a $150,000 grant to remove architectural barriers and make accessibility improvements to the entrances of the Munson Memorial building and library. We will be installing accessible doors and a new landing, ramp, and accessible walkway.
    • Critical maintenance was completed on the Munson Library roof.  Substantial repairs to the slate roof, slate cap and flashing with materials and methods to preserve historic details. o Town Hall: 
    • Roof: 
      • Funding requests to replace the historic slate roof are before the Community Preservation Act Committee. We are also seeking state funding as a designated Climate Leaders Community which provides access to additional funding sources.
      • The Town Hall is identified in the Amherst Municipal Decarbonization Roadmap as one of ten primary targeted buildings for decarbonization. • The Town Hall’s HVAC system will need to be replaced within the next few years. In preparation for a transition to heat pumps, it will be necessary to weatherize and repair elements of the building’s envelope that are old, damaged and compromised.  Replacement of the historic slate roof is an imperative as it is failing in certain locations creating problems with water intrusion.
      • The Town Council will be reviewing this project through the capital planning process and, possibly, the Community Preservation Act process.
  • Bangs Community Center: The work on the Bangs Community Center has begun. It will be sequenced over time to create the least disruption for the departments and activities in the Center. Town departments have been very cooperative in developing alternative service locations. Special thanks to Debora Bridges who is the docent for the Civil War Tablets. Special care has been taken to build a hard protective cover to ensure the tablets are not damaged during construction.
  • Conservation:

o Puffer’s Pond:

  • The Puffer’s Pond Restoration Project aims to restore, protect, and enhance ecologically sensitive areas of the Puffer’s Pond as well as make the site more accessible and safer for all to enjoy. These efforts will allow the Town to support and expand the dedicated use of this regionally significant place while also achieving the conservation goals for the area. Ultimately, the project aims to ensure the long-term health and vitality of the pond as a vital community resource for generations to come. 
    • Town staff has worked with the community to develop a plan to make Puffer’s a more accessible and safe destination for all to enjoy, while also restoring and protecting its ecologically sensitive areas. Plus, of course, improve the water quality so we can enjoy swimming in the summer.
    • The proposed project will result in improvements to public safety, environmental conditions, water quality, aesthetics, flood resilience, and access to recreational opportunities. Proposed improvements include:
  • Trail restoration
  • Dam and dike repairs
  • Removal of excess sediment accumulation
  • Replenished beaches
  • Installation of boardwalks and viewing platforms
  • Addition of kayak and canoe slide
  • Improvements to parking, traffic safety, and ADA accessibility
  • Learn more and provide feedback here: www.amherstma.gov/puffers-pondproject  
  • Proposed activities will be conducted in a phased approach based on available funding. The Town will be seeking local, state, and national funds to support these restoration efforts. 
  • The existing dam and dike keeping Puffer’s Pond in place are both high-hazard structures and in need of repairs due to vegetation growth, erosion, and structural vulnerabilities. The Town was awarded $250,000 from the Massachusetts Dam and Seawall Repair Program to design the repairs. Funding from this grant will be used to hire an engineering firm specializing in dam repairs to conduct multiple assessments, design plans, and pursue permitting through state and federal agencies. Once the project design and permitting are complete the Town will seek additional funding to execute the repairs.
  • Built in the 1890s to provide power to mill operations, the 32-foot-high dam spans the width of the Mill River and provides a picturesque waterfall in all

seasons. The dike is a 4-foot-high earthen embankment structure that was constructed at a low point along what is now the normal pool shoreline. The actual date of the dike’s construction is not known, but it likely coincided with the dam’s construction to maintain power-generating water levels in the pond. The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation Office of Dam Safety lists both structures as needing maintenance and repairs. 

Public Works

  • Winter: As winter approaches, the Town of Amherst reminds residents how to prepare for inclement weather including snow removal responsibilities and staying informed about parking bans. o Snow Removal: 
    • Property owners are responsible for clearing snow and ice from their sidewalks and are encouraged to dig out their nearest fire hydrant. Depending on storm conditions and equipment availability, the Department of Public Works may send a sidewalk plow around on major sidewalks to assist residents as a courtesy, however, this does not alleviate the owners of their obligation to maintain the sidewalk in a passable condition. The Town will skip portions of the sidewalk if property owners leave trash barrels, vehicles, or other items in the way which includes on their driveway between the sidewalk entrances. Enforcement of sidewalk clearing is done by the Inspections Department. Any issues with sidewalks not being cleared can be reported online through the Property Complaint Form or by calling 413-259-3030. A frequent and unfortunate result of snow plowing operations is snow being deposited in residential driveways. As plows travel along streets, the snow accumulated on the plow blade has no place to go but on the adjacent streets and driveways. Snowplow operators shall make every attempt to minimize the amount of snow deposited in driveways, but the amount can still be significant, especially after heavy snowfall. Residents may want to wait until the roads have been plowed before clearing the entrance of their driveways.  Residents can also help by piling shoveled snow from their driveways onto the right side facing the street, instead of placing it on both sides at the end of the driveways. Doing this will help snowplow drivers avoid carrying piles from the other side back across driveways. Additionally, please remember that property owners and contractors are not allowed to shovel, plow, or blow snow back onto public roads, as this can create hazardous conditions.
    • If, in the unfortunate event, your mailbox or property is damaged during town plowing operations, please submit a Service Request through the Town website within 48 hours of the damage so that we can assess it in a timely manner. Damage caused by a direct plow strike, not snow coming off the plow blade, will be considered for repair/replacement. Remember, anything installed within the

Town’s right-of-way (i.e. fence, mailbox, etc.) is placed at the owner’s risk. Residents should install mailboxes at the maximum allowable distance from the pavement and regularly check that they are secure and sturdy.

o Parking Bans:

  • To ensure safe and efficient snow removal, the Town may implement parking bans during significant snowfall. Residents can stay informed about parking bans by watching for the flashing blue lights over major intersections, visiting our website, following us on social media (Facebook & Instagram), calling (413) 259-3005 to

listen to a recording, and signing up for Parking Ban alerts in your language of choice by subscribing here or texting the word “Parking” to 38276 from your mobile device.

  • During a declared Parking Ban, parking is prohibited from midnight to 7:00 am on all town streets and in all parking lots, with 3 exceptions. During a declared of Parking Ban, overnight parking is allowed in: 
  • The lower level of the Boltwood parking garage;
  • The town portion of the Pray Street Lot;
  • Northern row of the North Pleasant Street Lot (row closest to church only). ▪ Otherwise, vehicles will be ticketed and towed nightly, at the owner’s expense. Regular enforcement hours for these lots begin at 8 am. Any vehicles left parked in these designated parking areas are responsible to pay for parking. View a map of Amherst center parking.

o Key Links: 

• Road Work:

o Amity Street at University Drive Roundabout: The contractor has completed work for the season.

DELEGATED AUTHORITY

  • Short-Term Event Uses of Town Commons (Section 1a of the Town Council Policy): None
  • Short-Term Parking Requests (Section 2a of the Town Council Policy):
    • November 29, December 6, December 13, December 20, December 27, 2025: Free Parking for all metered spaces on the streets and in the lots in the Downtown Business Improvement District. Time limits remain in effect.
  • Long-Term Parking Requests (Section 2bi of the Town Council Policy): None • Short-Term Public Way Closures (Section 3b of the Town Council Policy):
    • January 11, 2026 – Political Gathering – 11:45 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.; Boltwood Avenue between Main and Spring Streets; Indivisible West Quabbin
    • February 21, 2026 – Fire & Ice / Lumineria – 2:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.; Boltwood Avenue between Main and Spring Streets; Recreation Department
    • November 1, 2026 – HMF Western Mass 10 road race; 8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.; North Pleasant Street, South Pleasant Street, Triangle Street, College Street, Main Street, Dickinson Street; Hartford Half Marathon
  • Placement of Road and Temporary Signs (Section 3d of the Town Council Policy): None

MAJOR CAPITAL PROJECTS 

  • Jones Library Renovation and Expansion:  
    • The contractor is fully engaged in construction and making great progress.
  • DPW Building: We are scheduling the first meeting of the DPW Building Committee later this month.
  • Fire Building: We are investigating additional sites for the location of a new Fire Station.
  • Fort River Elementary School:
    • The project is proceeding on schedule and on budget after delays due to bid protests that delayed the start of construction until January.  o For more information, visit the School Building Project website here: https://www.amherst-school- project.com/ 

PROJECTS UPDATE

  • Centennial Water Treatment Facility:
    • Construction is largely complete on the1.5 million gallon per day (MGD) Centennial Water Treatment Plant, to treat surface water from the Pelham Reservoir System. o The Centennial Water Treatment Plant was bid and awarded to R.H. White Construction Co. of Auburn, MA for a contract amount of $18,876,000, and the project received funding though the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund program.
  • High School Track and Field: 
    • Work is nearly complete on the new track and field construction with all major earthwork and site drainage improvements completed.
    • The contractor has certain performance metrics to meet, regarding grass growth, etc. The actual date of opening the track and the fields is yet to be determined. Town staff are working with Regional School Department staff on schedules.
    • Town and school staff are reviewing ongoing maintenance requirements and costs of maintaining the natural grass fields.
  • Downtown Restroom: 
    • Portland Loo company – the product the Town wants to install at Kendrick Park – has received the required approvals from the State Plumbing Board. 
    • We are awaiting information regarding their production schedule but it appears that the project is back on track and we might be looking at installation in the spring.

UPCOMING MEETINGS AND EVENTS

  • January 19th – Rev. Dr.  Martin Luther King Jr. holiday
  • February 2nd – Town Council meeting
  • February 16th – Presidents Day holiday ➢ February 23rd – Town Council meeting
  • March 9th – Town Council meeting
  • March 23rd – Town Council meeting
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