Amherst public meetings in 2022

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals will hold hearings on nine appeals, including area variances, special use permits for small cell antennas, and an open development area request. Several items were previously adjourned from the November 15 meeting and are scheduled for continued hearings. The board will also approve minutes from prior meetings.

• 150 Northledge Drive: fence 0 ft from south property line, variance from 10-ft requirement
• 1155 Smith Road: pole barn would exceed accessory building area limit (1,184 sq ft allowed)
• 166 Klein Road: open development area for single-family homes without road frontage
• Three National Grid small cell antenna special use permits (Carmen Rd, Ridge Lea Rd, Meyer Rd)
• 50 Crosspoint Parkway: multiple variances for core street, lane width, ground floor elevation, and pedestrian access

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals approved several area variances and special use permits, including a 3-2 approval for a pole barn at 1155 Smith Road and unanimous approvals for small-cell antennas at three National Grid utility poles. Two items were adjourned to the January 24, 2023 meeting: the open development area at 166 Klein Road and the lot split at 18 Richfield Road.

• Approved fence variance at 150 Northledge Drive with condition to relocate fence to 8 feet from property line within 6 months (unanimous)
• Approved pole barn area variance at 1155 Smith Road (3-2)
• Adjourned open development area at 166 Klein Road to 1/24/2023 (unanimous)
• Approved small-cell special use permit at National Grid Utility Pole 17-1, north of 475 Carmen Rd (unanimous)
• Approved small-cell special use permit at National Grid Utility Pole 3981, south of 4030 Ridge Lea Rd (unanimous)
• Approved small-cell special use permit at National Grid Utility Pole 125, west of 135 Meyer Rd (unanimous)
• Approved A/C condenser variance at 6600 Main Street (unanimous)
• Approved multiple variances at 50 Crosspoint Parkway, including ground floor height (4-1) and others (unanimous)

Youth Board

The Amherst Youth Board is holding its regular December meeting. The agenda includes a presentation from the Northwest Amherst Community Center, approval of November minutes, committee and liaison reports, and updates from the executive director including program updates and the October revenue report.

• Presentation by Heidi Nicklaus Lefebvre, Project Coordinator, Northwest Amherst Community Center
• Approval of November 2022 minutes
• Committee reports: Finance, Youth Consortium, Family Room, Amherst Youth & Community Coalition
• Liaison reports from Councilmember Shawn Lavin and Amherst Youth Foundation's Mary-Diana Pouli
• Executive Director's report including program updates and October revenue report

The board received a presentation on the Northwest Amherst Community Center and updates on various youth and senior programs. No substantive votes were taken as a quorum was not met for the approval of previous minutes.

• Approval of November 9, 2022 Meeting Minutes tabled (Quorum not met)
• Food truck purchase cancelled due to denied grant proposal

Historic Preservation Commission

The Commission will review several items regarding local landmark designations and updates on preservation research. The meeting also includes discussions on the 2023 membership, planning, and proposed revisions to the Town of Amherst Historic Preservation Law.

• Proposed local landmark designation for Harlem Road Community Center
• Proposal for revision of the Historic Preservation Law of the Town of Amherst
• Research update on possible landmarking for BNHV Properties
• Discussion of possible landmark status for St. Pauls & St. Benedicts
• Update on CLG grant submission and Preservation Day

The Historic Preservation Commission approved the November 10, 2022 minutes unanimously. They discussed spending remaining 2022 budget funds on plaques and a Preservation Buffalo Niagara membership, and reviewed 2023 planning, training reports, and potential landmark designations. No new landmark designations were approved at this meeting.

• Approved November 10, 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed spending remaining 2022 budget on plaques and PBN membership (no formal vote)
• Agreed to open trainings to Williamsville Historic Preservation Commission
• Agreed to add November 2021 training to CLG Annual Report
• Agreed to consider removing Main & Smallwood repair from agenda (completed)

Recreation Commission

The Commission will meet via Zoom to elect its 2023 Chair and Vice-Chair. Members will also discuss the approval of golf fees for the 2023 season and the upcoming presentation calendar.

• Election of 2023 Chair and Vice-Chair
• Approval of 2023 golf fees
• 2023 presentation calendar planning

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a regular meeting with public hearings on a tax law amendment, a $100,000 bond for the North Bailey Sewer Project, 2023 fire district contracts, demolition of 160 Campus Drive, and rezonings at 6254 Main Street and 1720-1760 Maple Road. The board will also consider numerous resolutions including an $850,000 bond for Boulevard Central District design and planning, settlements of litigation, and various contracts and appointments.

• Public hearing: Local Law Amending Chapter 175, Taxation
• Public hearing: North Bailey Sewer Project bond resolution ($100,000)
• Public hearing: Rezoning of 6254 Main Street
• Public hearing: Rezoning of 1720, 1740 & 1760 Maple Road
• Resolution 2022-1176: Boulevard Central District Design and Planning bond ($850,000)

The Town Board authorized several bond resolutions for infrastructure projects and approved 2023 fire protection contracts. It also updated the Town's computer and mobile device usage policy and approved various personnel appointments.

• Approved $850,000 bond for Boulevard Central District Design and Planning (4-0)
• Approved $100,000 bond for North Bailey Sewer Project (4-0)
• Adopted 2023 Fire Protection District Contracts (4-0)
• Approved $50,000 settlement for Faruk v. Town of Amherst (4-0)
• Approved $849,318.72 insurance proposal from Lawley Insurance (4-0)
• Approved $1.85M Intermunicipal Agreement with Erie County for Amherst Central Park (4-0)
• Adopted updated Computer and Mobile Device Usage Policy (4-0)
• Approved $46,498 emergency purchase of R22 for Northtown Center rink (4-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session to discuss agenda items, including a presentation on the procurement of 2023 insurance policies. The meeting also includes an executive session. No formal votes are scheduled.

• Presentation on 2023 Insurance Policies Procurement by Pat Quinn of Lawley Insurance

Design Advisory Board

The Amherst Design Advisory Board is holding a public meeting to review two design applications: a proposed Snyder mixed-use building and a multi-family residential development at Crosspoint Business Park. The board will provide design review recommendations on these site plans. No other business is listed on the agenda.

• Design review for site plan SP-2022-11: proposed Snyder mixed-use building at 4548 & 4564 Main Street, 17 Fruehauf Avenue, and 22 Chateau Terrace, by Benderson Development Company, LLC
• Design review for site plan SP-2022-07: proposed Crosspoint Business Park multi-family residential development at 50 Crosspoint Parkway, by Uniland Development Company

The Design Advisory Board voted 3-0 to approve the site and building design for the proposed Snyder mixed-use building at 4548-4564 Main Street, which includes 48 apartments and commercial space. The board also voted 3-0 to approve recommendations for the Crosspoint Business Park multi-family residential development, including that its exterior materials be largely cementitious fiber board, colors match the design drawings, and additional outdoor amenity space be provided.

• Approved Snyder mixed-use building design (3-0)
• Approved Crosspoint residential development recommendations (3-0)
• Recommended Crosspoint use cementitious fiber board panels
• Recommended Crosspoint colors match Carmina Wood Design drawings
• Recommended additional outdoor amenity space at Crosspoint

Traffic-Safety Board

The Amherst Traffic-Safety Board will review seven new requests for traffic controls and safety measures, including parking restrictions, a crossing guard, speed control, and a left-turn arrow. The board will also discuss old business items such as a sight-distance study and a no-parking request, as well as two site plans for mixed-use and multi-family developments.

• Village Pointe Lane – parking restrictions between Essjay Road and Clarion Court
• Princeton & Cambridge – request for a crossing guard
• Maple Road at Maple West Elementary School entrance – request for a left turn arrow in the westbound direction
• 4548 & 4564 Main Street, 17 Fruehauf Avenue, and 22 Chateau Terrace – proposed Snyder mixed-use building
• 2635, 2675 & 2691 North Forest Road – proposed multi-family residential development

The Amherst Traffic Safety Board approved a parking restriction on Village Pointe Lane between Essjay Road and Clarion Court, but only on the east side, the curve, and the island, after a motion for both sides failed. The board also received and filed requests for a crossing guard at Princeton & Cambridge, speed control on Sunrise Blvd., and a left turn arrow at Maple Road, and referred a request for a striping plan on North French to the Erie County Legislator. A request for an all-way stop at Romney Road and TJX Plaza was held pending traffic data. The board approved a major site plan for a mixed-use building at 4548 & 4564 Main Street with conditions, including a traffic impact study and parking analysis.

• Approved parking restriction on Village Pointe Lane (east side, curve, island) (5-3)
• Received and filed crossing guard request at Princeton & Cambridge (8-0)
• Received and filed speed control request on Sunrise Blvd. (8-0)
• Received and filed left turn arrow request at Maple Road (8-0)
• Referred North French striping plan to Erie County Legislator
• Held all-way stop request at Romney Road & TJX Plaza pending traffic data
• Approved mixed-use building site plan at 4548 & 4564 Main St. with conditions
• Approved multi-family development at 2635-2691 North Forest Rd. with conditions

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a regular meeting with public hearings on a tax law amendment, zoning text changes for shopping centers and service stations, and the acquisition by eminent domain of Boulevard Mall parcels. The board will also vote on several development actions, including SEQR determinations and zoning map amendments for properties on Sweet Home Road, and will consider numerous resolutions covering contracts, appointments, and budget transfers.

• Resolution 2022-1132: Acquisition by eminent domain of Boulevard Mall parcels
• Resolution 2022-1131: Local law to amend zoning for SC Shopping Center District, parking, and service station standards
• Resolution 2022-1078: Adoption of local law to amend zoning map for 1400-1404 & 1408-1416 Sweet Home Road
• Resolution 2022-1139: Purchase of 1777 Dodge Road (Bongiovanni to TOA)
• Resolution 2022-1153: Public hearing on designating 4255 Harlem Road as a local historic landmark

The Town Board approved a rezoning of 7.43 acres at 1400-1404 & 1408-1416 Sweet Home Road to allow for a mixed-use project. The Board also adopted amendments to the Shopping Center District zoning ordinance and authorized several municipal contracts and appointments.

• Approved rezoning of 1400-1404 & 1408-1416 Sweet Home Road from RD to CTR-8 (5-0)
• Adopted amended Zoning Ordinance for Shopping Center District, Parking, and Service Stations (5-0)
• Approved $484,192 contract with Musco Sports Lighting for Mathewson McCarthy Baseball fields (5-0)
• Requested BENLIC acquire properties at 433 Campus Drive and 4651 N. Bailey Avenue (5-0)
• Approved $9,623.25 purchase of folder-inserter machine for Town Clerk's Office (5-0)
• Extended ambulance service contract with Twin City Ambulance through 12/31/2023 (5-0)
• Appointed Gia Panesar to the Amherst Youth Board (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for Jan 17, 2023, regarding 4255 Harlem Road historic landmark designation (5-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session that includes a presentation on procedures for Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) requests and information requests to the Amherst Police Department (APD). The agenda also includes an executive session. No formal votes or decisions are listed.

• Presentation on procedures for Town FOIL requests
• Presentation on information requests to APD

Planning Board

The Amherst Planning Board will hold public hearings on four items: a 40-unit apartment building at 7740 Transit Road, a multi-family development at 3325 & 3275 Millersport Highway, an 8-lot subdivision at 468 Harding Road, and a rezoning of 52 acres on Ridge Lea and Meyer Roads. The board will also revisit three unfinished rezoning requests for properties on Sheridan Drive and Maple Road, which were previously adjourned due to split votes. No public comment will be taken on the unfinished business items.

• 40-unit apartment building at 7740 Transit Road (SP-2022-05)
• Multi-family residential development at 3325 & 3275 Millersport Highway (SP-2022-06)
• 8-lot subdivision at 468 Harding Road (SUB-2022-01PP)
• Rezone 52 acres from CTR-5 & CTR-8 to SC on Ridge Lea and Meyer Roads (Z-2022-11)
• Rezone 6.27 acres from GB to DC-5 at 4110-4120 Sheridan Drive (Z-2022-07)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on six requests for area variances and open development area approvals. The board will decide on fence setbacks, accessory building size, site plan requirements, building separations, and two requests to build homes without public road frontage.

• 150 Northledge Drive: fence 0 ft from south property line, code requires 10 ft
• 1155 Smith Road: pole barn would make 2,272 sq ft of accessory buildings, code allows 1,184 sq ft
• 7740 Transit Road, LLC: site plan lacks required core half street and local street
• 3275 and 3325 Millersport Highway: building separations 45 ft vs 52.5 ft required; parking setback 8.64 ft vs 10 ft required
• 166 Klein Road and part of 1081 North French Road: open development area requests for homes without public road frontage

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved area variances for a residential development on North French Road and commercial projects on Transit Road and Millersport Highway. Several other variance requests for residential properties were adjourned to a future meeting.

• Approved open development area for homes at part of 1081 North French Road (Unanimous)
• Approved area variance for 3275 and 3325 Millersport Highway (Unanimous)
• Approved area variance for 7740 Transit Road, LLC (Unanimous)
• Accepted negative SEQR declaration for 7740 Transit Road, LLC (Unanimous)
• Adjourned area variance for 166 Klein Road (4-1)
• Adjourned area variance for 150 Northledge Drive (Unanimous)
• Adjourned area variance for 1155 Smith Road (Unanimous)
• Approved October 18, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Amherst Historic Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing on the proposed local landmark designation of the Harlem Road Community Center. The agenda also includes new business on the 2023 meeting schedule, 2022 budget remaining funds, and 2023 membership, plus updates on various preservation projects and possible landmark designations.

• Public hearing: Harlem Road Community Center proposed local landmark designation
• Proposed 2023 Historic Preservation Commission meeting schedule
• 2022 HPC budget - remaining funds
• Main Street & Smallwood Drive historic gateway repairs
• Proposal for revision of the Historic Preservation Law of the Town of Amherst

The Historic Preservation Commission voted unanimously to nominate the Harlem Road Community Center at 4255 Harlem Road as a local landmark and forward the nomination to the Town Board. The Commission also approved its 2023 meeting schedule and allocated $2,450 from its 2022 budget for landmark plaques and a Preservation Buffalo Niagara membership. Several other items were discussed without formal action, including updates on grants, gateway repairs, and potential landmark designations.

• Approved nomination of Harlem Road Community Center as local landmark (5-0)
• Approved 2023 Historic Preservation Commission meeting schedule (5-0)
• Approved $1,950 for landmark plaque initiative and $500 for Preservation Buffalo Niagara membership (5-0)

Youth Board

The Amherst Youth Board is holding a regular meeting with routine items: welcoming new members, approving minutes, and receiving committee and liaison reports. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Welcome new members Hannah Joseph, Gia Panesar, Tiger Li
• Approval of minutes from July, September, and October 2022
• Committee reports: Finance, Youth Consortium, Family Room, Amherst Youth & Community Coalition
• Liaison reports from Councilmember Shawn Lavin and Amherst Youth Foundation's Mary-Diana Pouli
• Shop Carousel for a Cause event on Nov 10 from 3-7pm

The Amherst Youth Board approved the minutes from July, September, and October meetings. Members received reports on various programs and initiatives, including the Take It to the Box campaign, Project Sticker Shock, and upcoming events. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting was primarily informational and procedural.

• Approved meeting minutes for July 11, September 14, and October 12, 2022 (motion by Susan McClary/Dawn Cwierley)
• Approved adjournment (motion by Siddarth Suresh/Priya Chaudhuri)

Recreation Commission

The Amherst Recreation Commission is meeting to approve minutes, discuss old business including Amherst Central Park and Jurek Post, and nominate a chair and vice-chair for 2023. The agenda is largely procedural, with reports from liaisons and staff.

• Nomination of Chair and Vice-Chair for 2023
• Discussion of Amherst Central Park
• Discussion of Jurek Post
• Approval of September 2022 minutes

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a regular meeting with public hearings on a local tax law amendment, substantial amendments to the 2020 Community Development Action Plan, and a rezoning on Sweet Home Road. The board will also consider a resolution to override the state tax levy limit, approve the 2023-2028 Capital Improvement Program, and act on numerous contracts, appointments, and other routine items.

• Resolution 2022-999: Local law to override the tax levy limit
• Resolution 2022-1049: Capital Improvement Program 2023-2028
• Resolution 2022-1078: Rezoning of 1400-1404 & 1408-16 Sweet Home Road
• Resolution 2022-1080: Request public hearing for North Bailey Sewer Project (bond $100,000)
• Resolution 2022-1082: Westwood purchase and sale agreement (CRS #3694)

The Amherst Town Board approved a purchase and sale agreement with Mensch Capital Partners, LLC for the 170.5-acre former Westwood Golf Course property at 772 North Forest Road for $7,750,000, adopting the resolution as amended. The board also adopted the 2023-2028 Capital Improvement Program and issued a negative declaration under SEQRA for the Westwood purchase. Several other items were approved, including a $100,000 bond resolution for the North Bailey Sewer Project, while a local law to override the tax levy limit was withdrawn.

• Approved $7.75M Westwood purchase agreement (5-0)
• Adopted 2023-2028 Capital Improvement Program (5-0)
• Issued negative declaration for Westwood purchase (5-0)
• Approved $100,000 bond for North Bailey Sewer Project (5-0)
• Withdrew local law to override tax levy limit
• Approved $430,278.49 CDBG-COVID fund reallocation (5-0)
• Approved $75,000 police tactical team grant (5-0)
• Approved $95,493 backstop purchase agreement (5-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session with an agenda that includes a pledge of allegiance, general board meeting items, and an executive session to discuss a land acquisition related to Westwood. No specific decisions or proposals are detailed in the agenda.

• Executive session on land acquisition (Westwood)

Traffic-Safety Board

The Amherst Traffic-Safety Board is meeting to review minutes and discuss several traffic-safety requests, including all-way stops at two intersections, a pedestrian crossing, a parking restriction extension, and improved stop signs. They will also revisit old business on cut-through traffic, a proposed 25 mph town speed limit, and traffic counts. A site plan for a mixed-use building in Snyder is also on the agenda.

• All-way stop request at Ruth & Marion intersection
• Pedestrian crossing request on Getzville Road at Elmhurst
• Parking restriction extension at 220 Mill Street
• All-way stop request at New Road & Tonawanda Creek Road
• Site plan for 4548 & 4564 Main Street, 17 Fruehauf Avenue, 22 Chateau Terrace (Snyder Mixed Use Building)

The Traffic Safety Board approved a recommendation to Erie County for an all-way stop at New Road and Tonawanda Creek Road. A proposed all-way stop at Ruth and Marion was tabled pending further traffic counts. The Board also approved a site plan for a mixed-use building at Main Street and tabled the October meeting minutes.

• Approved recommendation to Erie County for all-way stop at New Road & Tonawanda Creek Road (6-0)
• Tabled request for all-way stop at Ruth & Marion Intersection (6-0)
• Held request for pedestrian crossing at Getzville Road & Elmhurst
• Held request for parking restriction extension at 220 Mill Street
• Approved motion for Highway Dept to repaint markings at Hopkins Road Pathway (6-0)
• Held Augusta Avenue traffic review for temporary closure test
• Received and filed Mt. Vernon Road & Saratoga intersection item
• Approved Snyder Mixed Use Building site plan with conditions

Design Advisory Board

The Design Advisory Board will review a design application for a proposed 40-unit apartment building at 7740 Transit Road. The board will also discuss the proposed 2023 meeting calendar.

• Design review for 40-unit apartment building at 7740 Transit Road
• Postponement of Crosspoint Business Park multi-family residential development at 50 Crosspoint Parkway
• Discussion of proposed 2023 Design Advisory Board calendar

The Design Advisory Board approved the site and building design for a proposed 37-unit apartment building at 7740 Transit Road, finding it adequately addresses the Town's Design Guidelines for Mixed-use Development. The board also approved the 2023 meeting calendar and agreed to move the December 2022 meeting to December 8. A separate project at 50 Crosspoint Parkway was adjourned at the petitioner's request.

• Approved design for 37-unit apartment building at 7740 Transit Road (4-0)
• Adjourned Crosspoint Business Park multi-family project at petitioner's request (4-0)
• Approved 2023 Design Advisory Board meeting calendar (4-0)
• Agreed to move December 2022 meeting to December 8 (4-0)
• Approved August 25, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a budget meeting to consider the 2023 town budget, the Capital Improvement Program for 2023-2028, and a local law amending Chapter 175 on taxation. The board will also act on several resolutions, including eminent domain for Boulevard Mall parcels, easements, and budget transfers. Public hearings are scheduled for the budget, CIP, and tax law items.

• Resolution 2022-896: Local law amending Chapter 175, Taxation
• Resolution 2022-1049: Capital Improvement Program (CIP) 2023-2028
• Resolution 2022-1050: Town of Amherst 2023 Budget
• Resolution 2022-1052: Public hearing on acquisition by eminent domain of Boulevard Mall parcels
• Resolution 2022-1071: Public hearing request for zoning text amendments to SC-Shopping Center District

The Town Board, acting as the Amherst Urban Renewal Agency, adopted the Boulevard Central District Urban Renewal Plan, which focuses on the redevelopment of the Boulevard Mall and adjacent properties. The board also approved a resolution to hold a public hearing on the potential acquisition of these properties by eminent domain. Several other items were approved, including budget adjustments, contracts, and appointments.

• Adopted Boulevard Central District Urban Renewal Plan (4-0)
• Approved public hearing for possible eminent domain acquisition of Boulevard Mall parcels (4-0)
• Adopted consent agenda including budget transfers and amendments (4-0)
• Approved $127,838.02 contract for Audubon Library carpet replacement (4-0)
• Approved $36,348.22 change order for Williamsville Junior Football Facility (4-0)
• Approved $42,866.00 change order for Williamsville Junior Football Facility (4-0)
• Approved 2023 budget changes and other items (4-0)
• Approved NOCO Organic Composting Agreement (4-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session to discuss agenda items for an upcoming meeting. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific action items listed.

Planning Board

The Amherst Planning Board met to review and vote on several zoning amendments, subdivisions, and site plans. Key decisions included approving a zoning text amendment for shopping centers and a negative declaration for an 8-lot subdivision, while rejecting two rezoning requests. The board also adjourned multiple proposals to a future meeting for further discussion.

• Amendment to Chapter 203 of Town Code for SC zoning district changes, including minimum district size of 50 acres and parking regulation updates
• Approval of Negative Declaration for 8-lot subdivision at 468 Harding Road (1.44± acres)
• Rejection of rezoning request for 6.27± acres at 4110-4120 Sheridan Drive from GB to DC-5
• Adjournment of rezoning request for 5.1± acres at 1720, 1740 & 1760 Maple Road from R-3 and OB to DC-5 to November 17, 2022 meeting
• Adjournment of rezoning request to remove height restriction at 4110-4120 Sheridan Drive to November 17, 2022 meeting

The Board approved amendments to the Shopping Center zoning district and authorized two residential rezoning requests. Two subdivision environmental reviews were approved, while several other rezoning and site plan requests were adjourned.

• Approved amendments to Shopping Center (SC) zoning district regulations (Unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 0.25 acres at 6254 Main Street from R-3 to MFR-4A (Unanimous)
• Approved Negative Declaration for 18-lot subdivision at 166 Klein Road (5-1)
• Approved Negative Declaration for 8-lot subdivision at 468 Harding Road (5-1)
• Approved 2023 Planning Board meeting calendar (Unanimous)
• Adjourned dentistry school expansion at 2525 Kensington Avenue (Unanimous)
• Adjourned rezoning request for 4110-4120 Sheridan Drive (Unanimous)
• Adjourned rezoning request for 1720-1760 Maple Road (Unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals will hold hearings on five area variance requests, covering garage setbacks, a canopy, building coverage, an accessory structure height, and a flag pole. The board will also approve minutes from prior meetings. The Transit Road flag pole request was previously adjourned to allow the petitioner to discuss alternative locations.

• 128 North Drive: garage 2'-4" from west property line (requires 5'), addition 4' from shed (requires 5')
• 2525 Kensington Avenue: canopy at 0' from east property line (requires 5'), landscaping not as required
• 1695, 1701 & 1721 Dodge Road: building coverage 48% and 43% on sub lots (max 40%)
• 23 Four Seasons Road W.: accessory garage height 22'-8" (max 20')
• 8040 Transit Road: flag pole 80' tall, 81' from centerline (limits 65' and 135')

The Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously approved five area variance requests related to building setbacks, height, and lot coverage. Two of the approvals included specific conditions regarding structure height and fencing.

• Approved area variance for attached garage setbacks at 128 North Drive (4-0)
• Approved area variance for canopy setback at 2525 Kensington Avenue (4-0)
• Approved area variance for building coverage at 1695, 1701 & 1721 Dodge Road with conditions (4-0)
• Approved area variance for accessory garage height at 23 Four Seasons Road W. (4-0)
• Approved area variance for flagpole setback at 8040 Transit Road with height condition (4-0)
• Accepted September 20, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)

Amherst Committee on Disabilities

The Amherst Committee on Disabilities will meet virtually to discuss several accessibility initiatives, including bike path emergency phones, an inclusive playground at Amherst Central Park, and a sensory awareness narrative. They will also consider a resolution to continue virtual meetings and address winter sidewalk maintenance and snow removal.

• Bike path phones update
• Inclusive playground in Amherst Central Park
• Sensory awareness narrative
• Resolution to continue virtual meetings
• Winter sidewalk maintenance and snow removal

The Amherst Committee on Disabilities approved a resolution to continue meeting via Zoom, with all members in favor. The committee also discussed updates on bike path phones, a sensory awareness narrative, an inclusive playground, a social media proposal, and firefighter training. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved resolution to continue virtual meetings via Zoom (all in favor)
• Approved September minutes as read (all in favor)

Town Board

The Town Board will hold public hearings regarding local tax law amendments, a community development action plan, and the Boulevard Central District Urban Renewal Plan. The meeting also includes discussions on various board appointments and several departmental resolutions.

• Public hearing for 2023 Community Development Program Annual Action Plan
• Proposed Boulevard Central District Urban Renewal Plan
• Amended bond resolution of $720,000 for recreation complexes concessions/restrooms
• Local law amendments for Chapter 175 (Taxation) and Chapter 203 (Zoning Ordinance)
• Board appointments for various committees including the Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session with an agenda that includes an executive session to discuss potential property acquisitions for a Town Office Building and Westwood, as well as a tax issue involving Shaarey Tzedek. No other substantive items are listed on the agenda.

• Potential property acquisition for Town Office Building
• Property acquisition (Westwood)
• Shaarey Tzedek tax issue

Youth Board

The Amherst Youth Board is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes from July and September 2022, receiving committee and liaison reports, and hearing the Executive Director's report on program updates, the Town of Amherst Diaper Drive, and the August revenue report. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major policy decisions or public hearings listed.

• Approval of minutes from July and September 2022
• Committee reports: Finance, Youth Consortium, Family Room, Amherst Youth & Community Coalition
• Liaison reports from Councilmember Shawn Lavin and Amherst Youth Foundation's Mary-Diana Pouli
• Basket Raffle on October 22nd at 1:00pm
• Executive Director's report: program updates, Diaper Drive, August revenue

The Amherst Youth Board tabled the approval of the July 11 and September 14, 2022 meeting minutes because a quorum was not met. No new business was introduced or decided. The meeting focused on reports regarding ongoing community programs, including the Warm Clothing Project, Harvest Fest, and upcoming events.

• Approval of July 11, 2022 minutes tabled (quorum not met)
• Approval of September 14, 2022 minutes tabled (quorum not met)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Amherst Historic Preservation Commission approved the demolition of a detached garage at 65 Burbank Drive and discussed several ongoing preservation projects, including a possible landmark designation for the Harlem Road Community Center. The meeting also included updates on grant spending, masonry repairs, and a proposed revision to the town's historic preservation law.

• Approved demolition of detached garage at 65 Burbank Drive (5-0 vote)
• Set public hearing for November 10, 2022, on landmark designation for Harlem Road Community Center (4255 Harlem Road)
• Reported $12,025.11 spending balance on CLG grant
• Contract with Morris Masonry for Main Street & Smallwood Drive gateway repairs approved and executed
• Draft landmark application for Harlem Road Community Center reviewed

The Commission approved a notice of proposed landmark designation for the Harlem Road Community Center and authorized the demolition of a detached garage at 65 Burbank Drive. Members also reviewed updates on the Main Street and Smallwood Drive gateway repairs and CLG grant spending.

• Approved notice of proposed landmark designation for 4255 Harlem Road and set public hearing for Nov 10 (5-0)
• Approved demolition of detached garage at 65 Burbank Drive (5-0)
• Approved September 13, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)

Traffic-Safety Board

The Amherst Traffic-Safety Board meets to discuss resident requests for speed controls, crosswalks, and signage on Augusta Avenue, Tonawanda Creek Road, Glen Oak Drive/Smith Road intersection, and Mt. Vernon Road/Saratoga. The board also reviews old-business items including pedestrian counts and held studies, and considers three site-plan applications for new retail, industrial, and dental-school projects.

• Augusta Avenue – review of cut-through traffic and speed control measures
• Glen Oak Drive and Smith Road intersection – request for crosswalk and/or signage
• 3122 & 3112 Sheridan Drive – proposed retail/restaurant, office, patio, drive-up ATM, and walkway revisions
• 305 Crosspoint Parkway – proposed industrial warehouse/office development
• 2525 Kensington Avenue – proposed dental-school parking and sidewalk waiver

The board approved two major site plan reviews. Due to only five members being present, no formal votes were taken on other business, though the board agreed to refer a crosswalk request at Glen Oak Drive and Smith Road to the Highway department.

• Approved site plan for 305 Crosspoint Parkway with conditions regarding sidewalks and crosswalks
• Approved site plan for 2525 Kensington Ave as submitted
• Referred Glen Oak Drive and Smith Road crosswalk request to Highway for permits and installation
• Referred Mt. Vernon Road and Saratoga Road to Highway for traffic and speed counts
• Denied request to change striping to High-Visibility at Washington/Westmoreland intersections
• Filed request to lower speed limit on Tonawanda Creek Road
• Tabled September 7, 2022 meeting minutes for November vote

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is meeting to consider several resolutions, including public hearings on tax and zoning changes, and multiple bond and contract approvals. Key items include a $2.4M bond for streetlight acquisition and upgrades, a $2.4M bond for a settled claim, and a resolution to schedule a public hearing on the 2023 budget exceeding the tax cap. The agenda also includes numerous board appointments and routine contract extensions.

• Resolution 2022-956: Supplemental bond resolution for $2.4M for streetlight acquisition and upgrades
• Resolution 2022-955: Bond resolution for $2.4M to finance a settled claim
• Resolution 2022-953: Scheduling public hearing on proposed local law for 2023 budget exceeding tax cap
• Resolution 2022-896: Public hearing on local law amending Chapter 175 (Taxation)
• Resolution 2022-960: Revised 2022 Building Permit Fee Schedule

The Amherst Town Board adopted $2.4 million bond resolutions for a settled claim and general street lighting acquisition, approved 2023 special district budget amendments with a net decrease of $604,998.01, and expressed support for a community benefits agreement for the new Buffalo Bills stadium. The Board also approved stop sign installation on Countryside Lane, restricted parking on Lebrun Road, and scheduled public hearings for the October 17 meeting.

• Adopted $2.4M bond resolution for Micro-Link, LLC v. Town of Amherst settlement (4-0)
• Adopted $2.4M supplemental bond resolution for street lighting acquisition and upgrades (4-0)
• Approved 2023 budget amendments for special districts resulting in a net decrease of $604,998.01 (4-0)
• Adopted resolution in support of a community benefits agreement for the new Buffalo Bills stadium (3-0, 1 abstention)
• Installed stop sign at the eastern tee intersection of Countryside Lane and Autumnview Road (4-0)
• Restricted parking on the east side of Lebrun Road between Mona Drive and the Buffalo municipal boundary (3-1)
• Scheduled public hearing for October 17 on proposed local law to override the 2023 tax levy limit (4-0)
• Set 2023 salaries for elected officials, including stipends for the records management officer and town justices (4-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session to discuss agenda items, followed by an executive session covering property issues, personnel matters, a potential land acquisition, a tax issue, restrictions on blue-rated facilities, a local law amendment, and opioid court personnel. The public portion is limited to the pledge and work session; substantive discussion occurs behind closed doors.

• Executive session: property issue follow-up
• Executive session: personnel issues including police dept. FOIL
• Executive session: land acquisition potential acquisition
• Executive session: Shaarey Tzedek tax issue
• Executive session: local law amending Chapter 175

Design Advisory Board

The Amherst Design Advisory Board is holding a public meeting to review two design applications: a proposed 40-unit apartment building at 7740 Transit Road and a multi-family residential development at Crosspoint Business Park, 50 Crosspoint Parkway. The board will also approve minutes from its August 25, 2022 meeting. No other business is listed.

• Design review SP-2022-05: 40-unit apartment building at 7740 Transit Road, petitioner 7740 Transit Road, Inc.
• Design review SP-2022-07: Crosspoint Business Park multi-family residential development at 50 Crosspoint Parkway, petitioner Uniland Development Company
• Minutes approval for August 25, 2022 meeting

Planning Board

The Amherst Planning Board will hold public hearings on several development proposals, including the long-adjourned Sawyer's Landing mixed-use project and a rezoning request on Sweet Home Road. It will also consider a comprehensive plan amendment for Wehrle Drive and an urban renewal plan update. Two Sheridan Drive items were postponed at the petitioner's request.

• Sawyer's Landing mixed-use development, SP-2021-05, at 1081 North French Road (Muir Woods Site A)
• 8-lot subdivision SEQR hearing, SUB-2022-01PP, at 468 Harding Road
• Rezone 7.43± acres from RD to CTR-8, Z-2022-02, at 1400-1416 Sweet Home Road
• Amend Bicentennial Comprehensive Plan for 22.78± acres from commercial office to medium residential, BCPA-2022-05, at 2360-2370 Wehrle Drive
• Boulevard Central District Urban Renewal Plan update, SR-2022-05

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on six appeals, including a special use permit for a home occupation and five area variances for fences, signs, sports lighting, and a flagpole. The board will decide whether to grant these requests, which deviate from the town's zoning ordinance.

• 4914 Harlem Road: Special Use Permit for Type II Home Occupation
• 301 Troy Del Way: Area Variance for 6-ft fence with 15-ft setback (requires 30 ft)
• 2787 Niagara Falls Boulevard: Area Variance for 155.5 sq ft sign (max 96 sq ft) and LED sign 274 ft from residential (requires 500 ft)
• 6320 Main Street: Area Variance for LED sign 380 ft from residential (requires 500 ft) and 10 ft from right-of-way (requires 15 ft)
• 1995 Wehrle Drive: Area Variance for sports lights up to 80 ft (max 65 ft) and lumen levels exceeding limits

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved area variances for two signs, a residential fence, and sports field lighting. One request for a home occupation permit was withdrawn, and a flagpole variance was adjourned.

• Approved fence setback variance at 301 Troy Del Way (unanimous)
• Approved signage area and LED setback variance at 2787 Niagara Falls Boulevard (unanimous)
• Approved LED sign setback variance at 6320 Main Street (unanimous)
• Approved height, setback, and lumen variances for sports lights at 1995 Wehrle Drive (unanimous)
• Withdrew Type II Home Occupation permit request for 4914 Harlem Road (unanimous)
• Adjourned flagpole area variance for 8040 Transit Road to 10/18/2022 (unanimous)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a regular meeting with public hearings on a tax law amendment and a HOME/ARP funding appropriation. The board will also consider numerous resolutions, including bond authorizations for comprehensive planning projects ($400,000) and Mathewson/McCarthy ballfield lighting improvements ($125,000), as well as various contracts, appointments, and budget transfers.

• Resolution 2022-896: Local Law Amending Chapter 175, Taxation (public hearing)
• Resolution 2022-897: HOME Investment Partnerships Program - American Rescue Plan Appropriation (public hearing)
• Resolution 2022-901: Comprehensive Planning Projects Bond Resolution - $400,000
• Resolution 2022-900: Mathewson/McCarthy Ballfield Lighting Improvements Amended Bond Resolution - $125,000
• Resolution 2022-904: TOA v. Brooks Property Damage Release - $50,000

The Town Board authorized several bond resolutions for infrastructure and planning, including $400,000 for townwide comprehensive planning and $125,000 for ballfield lighting. The board also approved various contract extensions for housing assistance and road salt procurement.

• Approved $400,000 bond for Comprehensive Planning Projects (5-0)
• Approved $125,000 bond for Mathewson/McCarthy Ballfield Lighting Improvements (5-0)
• Awarded Real Property Reassessment Project RFP to GAR Associates LLC (5-0)
• Approved $675,875.67 contract to Northeast Signal, Inc. for Smart Signal Implementation Phase 2 (5-0)
• Approved host community agreement with Amherst Community Solar LLC for $25,000 (5-0)
• Approved contract extensions for Belmont Housing Resources for rental and mortgage assistance (5-0)
• Approved road salt contracts with American Rock Salt Co, LLC (5-0)
• Granted University at Buffalo Student Association permission to close section of Ellicott Creek Trail (5-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session with an agenda that includes an executive session to discuss a property acquisition related to Westwood. No other substantive items are listed, making this a largely procedural meeting.

• Executive session on property acquisition (Westwood)

Youth Board

The Amherst Youth Board is meeting to discuss routine business including approval of July minutes, committee and liaison reports, and the executive director's report. Key topics include summer program reports, the Pop Up Clothing & School Supply Pantry, the 4110 Bailey Avenue location, Serve Day on September 24, and the July revenue report. The meeting is largely procedural with updates and reports.

• Approval of July 2022 minutes
• Basket Raffle scheduled for October 22 at 1:00pm
• Pop Up Clothing & School Supply Pantry update
• Serve Day on September 24
• July Revenue Report

The Amherst Youth Board met on September 14, 2022, but did not make any substantive formal decisions. The board tabled the approval of the July 11, 2022, meeting minutes because a quorum was not met. Members and staff instead heard reports regarding youth programs, community partnerships, and facility updates.

• Tabled approval of July 11, 2022 meeting minutes due to lack of quorum

Senior Services Advisory Board

The Amherst Senior Services Advisory Board is meeting to approve minutes from its June 8, 2022 meeting and receive reports from department staff and a councilmember liaison. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific policy decisions or public hearings listed.

• Approval of minutes from June 8, 2022 meeting
• Report from Director Melissa Abel on Senior Services
• Report from Youth & Recreation Executive Director Mary-Diana Pouli
• Report from Program Coordinator Tammy Jacobs
• Update from Councilmember Deborah Bruch-Bucki, RN, PhD

The board approved the minutes from the June 8, 2022 meeting. Members received reports on summer activities, fall class registration, and meal program statistics.

• Approved June 8, 2022 minutes

Historic Preservation Commission

The Commission will consider several certificates of appropriateness for property repairs and remodels. Members will also receive updates on historic gateway repairs and potential landmarking for various properties.

• Porch repair at 58 Youngs Road
• Concrete landing repair at 58 Youngs Road
• Detached garage remodel at 23 Four Seasons West
• Amherst Town Hall weathervane
• Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village roofing project

The Commission approved certificates of appropriateness for porch and landing repairs at 58 Youngs Road and a garage remodel at 23 Four Seasons West. It also approved a roofing project for the Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village and authorized payment for a banner invoice.

• Approved August 9, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved porch repair at 58 Youngs Road (6-0)
• Approved concrete landing repair at 58 Youngs Road (6-0)
• Approved detached garage remodel at 23 Four Seasons West with material conditions (6-0)
• Approved Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village roofing project (6-0)
• Approved payment of The Copy Store invoice via CLG grant or Historic Preservation account (6-0)
• Removed Historic Entranceway at Main & Lamarck from the agenda (6-0)

Amherst Community Diversity Commission

The Amherst Community Diversity Commission will discuss feedback on its Juneteenth program, potential displays at the Senior Center and Library, and coordination with school and town liaisons. The meeting also covers updates on member information, budget requests, and planning for future events including a Punjabi Cultural/Baisakhi Mela.

• Feedback on Juneteenth Program
• Display in Senior Center/Library
• Request budget/money from Town to fund Commission projects
• Punjabi Cultural/Baisakhi Mela

The Commission approved the June 14, 2022, meeting minutes and planned a $1,000 budget request for supplies and events. Members scheduled a meeting with Supervisor Brian Kulpa for September 26, 2022, to discuss publicity and emergency responses to hate crimes.

• Approved June 14th 2022 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Planned $1,000 budget request to Town of Amherst for supplies and events
• Scheduled meeting with Supervisor Brian Kulpa for September 26th, 2022
• Assigned Zhen Liu to organize an elaborated calendar of community holidays and events

Amherst Committee on Disabilities

The Amherst Committee on Disabilities is meeting to discuss accessibility initiatives, including bike path phones, a multimedia accessibility project, an inclusive playground, and accessibility concerns at a local apartment complex. The committee will also review old business, approve minutes, and plan membership for 2023.

• Follow up on bike path phones
• Multimedia accessibility project
• Inclusive playground in Amherst Central Park
• Accessibility concerns at local Amherst apartment complex
• Firefighter training

The Committee on Disabilities approved the use of a member's personal narrative regarding sensory processing at future table events. Members discussed the progress of an inclusive playground at N. Forest/Sheridan and the potential creation of a Facebook page for community outreach.

• Approved August minutes as read
• Approved including Susan Zummo's personal narrative on raising a son with a disability at Committee table events

Traffic-Safety Board

The Amherst Traffic-Safety Board is meeting to discuss new business and review old items, including a proposed NYS law change to a 25 mph minimum speed limit and a weight restriction request for Getzville Road. They will also revisit prior requests for crosswalk and beacon improvements, and review traffic counts. The agenda includes six site plan and rezoning proposals for residential and commercial developments across town.

• Bill A1007A: discussion of NYS law changing minimum speed limit to 25 mph
• Getzville Road: request for 5-ton weight restriction between Sheridan Drive and Main Street
• Heim Road & Deer Ridge Ct.: rectangular rapid flashing beacon request
• Bassett Road & St. Gregory Court: sight distance for crosswalk at curve
• 50 Crosspoint Parkway: proposed business park-multi-family residential development

The Board voted to lower the statutory speed limit on local roads to 25 mph following a change in NYS law. It also approved new crosswalks and stop bars at three intersections along Troy Del Way and approved several site plans with specific sidewalk and ADA conditions.

• Approved reducing statutory speed limit to 25 mph on local roads (5-1)
• Approved stop bars and crosswalks at The Spur, Catherine, and the Circle on Troy Del Way (6-0)
• Denied 5-ton weight restriction on Getzville Road (no motion voiced)
• Approved site plan for 50 Crosspoint Parkway with sidewalk conditions
• Approved preliminary plat for 166 Klein Road with sidewalk and lighting conditions
• Approved preliminary plat for 468 Harding Road with ADA ramp conditions
• Approved site plan for 4300 Millersport Highway as submitted
• Approved site plan for 6766 Transit Road with signage and curbing conditions

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a public hearing and considering resolutions to rezone properties at 35, 50 & 55 Crosspoint Parkway, including SEQR review and adoption of a local law to amend the zoning map. The board will also act on several bond resolutions for capital projects, including traffic calming, a pathway safety project, and a guiderail relocation. Numerous other resolutions cover contracts, equipment purchases, personnel appointments, and budget transfers.

• Public hearing and rezoning for 35, 50 & 55 Crosspoint Parkway (Resolutions 2022-806, 842, 843)
• Bond resolution for Traffic Calming Installations ($250,000)
• Bond resolution for Pathway to Safety Enhancement Project ($100,000)
• Bond resolution for Frankhauser Guiderail Relocation ($30,000)
• Award of bids for tree treatment products, calcium nitrate solution, and garbage/recycling totes contract extension

The Town Board approved the rezoning of 11.29 acres at 35, 50 & 55 Crosspoint Parkway to allow for 208 residential dwelling units. The board also authorized several bond resolutions for traffic calming and pathway safety projects and approved a voluntary separation incentive program for CSEA and AHEA employees.

• Approved rezoning of 35, 50 & 55 Crosspoint Parkway from GB to DC-5 (4-1)
• Approved $250,000 bond for traffic calming installations (5-0)
• Approved $100,000 bond for Pathway Safety Enhancement Project (5-0)
• Approved $30,000 bond for Frankhauser Guiderail Relocation (5-0)
• Approved voluntary separation incentive program for CSEA and AHEA employees (5-0)
• Approved purchase of Global M3 Street Sweeper for $243,358.00 (5-0)
• Approved $20,000 agreement for construction trades pre-apprenticeship program (5-0)
• Authorized settlement of Micro-Link, LLC v. Town of Amherst litigation (5-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session. The agenda includes a pledge of allegiance and discussion of Town Board meeting agenda items. An executive session is scheduled to discuss a property acquisition related to Westwood.

• Executive session on property acquisition (Westwood)

Design Advisory Board

The Amherst Design Advisory Board is holding a public meeting to review a design application for a proposed 40-unit apartment building at 7740 Transit Road. The agenda includes roll call, the design review, minutes approval, and adjournment; no other business is listed.

• Design review application SP-2022-05 for a 40-unit apartment building at 7740 Transit Road, submitted by 7740 Transit Road, Inc.
• Minutes approval for January 27, 2022 meeting

The Board reviewed a proposal for a multi-family building at 7740 Transit Road and voted to send it to the Planning Board with eight specific design recommendations. The Board also approved the meeting minutes from January 27, 2022.

• Approved sending 7740 Transit Road apartment project to Planning Board with recommendations (5-0)
• Approved January 27, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)

Town Board

The Town Board will hold public hearings regarding rezoning at 35, 50 & 55 Crosspoint Parkway and amendments to the Boulevard Central District. The meeting also includes discussions on development reviews, various board appointments, and several department resolutions.

• Public hearing for 35, 50 & 55 Crosspoint Parkway rezoning
• Development review for 5105 & 5117 Sheridan Drive and 543 & 553 Mill Street
• Appointments for various boards including the Committee on Disabilities and Youth Board
• Public hearing for stop sign installation at Countryside Lane & Autumnview Road
• Bid awards for pavement reconstruction on Campbell Boulevard and police garage roof restoration

The Town Board adopted a local law to rezone properties at 5105 & 5117 Sheridan Drive and 543 & 553 Mill Street to allow for commercial and residential buildings. The board also approved the $50,000 purchase of vacant land at 1777 Dodge Road and awarded several infrastructure contracts.

• Approved rezoning of 5105 & 5117 Sheridan Drive and 543 & 553 Mill Street to Deep Corridor 3 District (5-0)
• Approved $50,000 purchase of vacant land at 1777 Dodge Road (5-0)
• Awarded $144,231 roof restoration contract for Police Maintenance Garage and Town Court to Elmer W. Davis, Inc. (5-0)
• Awarded $46,500 pavement reconstruction contract for Campbell Boulevard to Thomann Asphalt Paving Corp (5-0)
• Approved $265,522 contract for a TV Truck from Cues, Inc. (5-0)
• Established 20 mph school speed zone on Washington Highway to Westmoreland Road (5-0)
• Appointed Penny Wolfgang to the Amherst Library Board of Trustees (5-0)
• Terminated employment of John Doe effective August 23, 2022 (5-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session with presentations on Community Choice Aggregation and a BNHV budget request, followed by discussion of agenda items. An executive session is scheduled for legal and personnel matters, including potential lien foreclosure and property acquisition.

• Community Choice Aggregation presentation (15 mins)
• BNHV Budget Request presentation (15 mins)
• Executive session: potential lien foreclosure
• Executive session: litigation (Micro Link)
• Executive session: property acquisition (Westwood)

Planning Board

The Amherst Planning Board will hold public hearings on a proposed shelter addition at St. John's Lutheran Church, a service expansion at the Northtown Automotive Dealership, and two proposed local laws amending town code on roadway illumination and zoning text. The board will also consider an extension of a major site plan for the Dockside Mixed Use Center under unfinished business, with no public hearing for that item.

• Public hearing: St. John's Lutheran Church proposed shelter addition, 6540 Main Street (SP-2022-04)
• Public hearing: Northtown Automotive Dealership service expansion, 3890-3930 Sheridan Drive (SP-2014-01_G)
• Public hearing: Local law to amend Chapter 204 (subdivision regulations) on roadway illumination (ZTA-2022-01)
• Public hearing: Local law to amend Chapter 203 (zoning ordinance) various text amendments (ZTA-2022-02)
• Unfinished business: Extension of major site plan for Dockside Mixed Use Center, 10800 Transit Road (SP-2018-04_A)

The Planning Board approved amendments to the Town Code regarding subdivision roadway illumination and various zoning ordinance updates. The board also approved site plan requests for a church shelter and an automotive service expansion, and granted a construction extension for a mixed-use center.

• Approved shelter addition and sidewalk waiver for St. John's Lutheran Church (5-0)
• Approved 5,400 s.f. service expansion for Northtown Automotive Dealership (5-0)
• Approved local law to amend subdivision regulations for roadway illumination (5-0)
• Approved zoning ordinance text amendments, excluding §6-8-9 (5-0)
• Approved two-year construction extension for Dockside Mixed Use Center (5-0)
• Approved June 16, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals will hold hearings on 11 area and use variance requests, covering fences, a pool, a flagpole, a building addition, a non-conforming use expansion, and a temporary use permit renewal. Several items were previously adjourned and are being reconsidered. The board will also approve minutes from prior meetings.

• 655 Lebrun Road: fence extension 9.9 ft from front property line vs. required 30 ft setback
• 9 Northington Drive: 6-ft fence 1 ft from south property line vs. required 30 ft setback
• 281 Casey Road: house setbacks 15.36 ft and 27.67 ft vs. approved 21.5 ft minimum
• 8040 Transit Road: 80-ft flagpole 81 ft from Transit Road centerline vs. 65-ft height and 135-ft setback limits
• 3210 Millersport Highway: use variance to expand non-conforming veterinary hospital

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved several area variances for residential fences, pools, and commercial setbacks. The board also granted a use variance for a veterinary hospital expansion and a temporary use permit for a workshop. One request regarding a flagpole was adjourned.

• Approved area variances for fences at 655 Lebrun Road and 9 Northington Drive (Unanimous)
• Approved area variance for landscaped islands at 3171 Sherdian Drive (4-0)
• Approved area variance for house setbacks at 281 Casey Road (Unanimous)
• Approved area variances for a garage at 355 Heim Road and a pool at 37 Wood Lee Road (Unanimous)
• Adjourned area variance for flagpole at 8040 Transit Road (Unanimous)
• Approved building setback and use variance for veterinary hospital at 3210 Millersport Highway (4-0)
• Approved 2-year temporary use permit for workshop at 400 Hendricks Blvd. (Unanimous)
• Approved area variance for lot width for place of worship at 1964 Kensington Avenue (Unanimous)

Amherst Committee on Disabilities

The Amherst Committee on Disabilities is meeting to discuss several accessibility initiatives, including bike path phones, a multimedia accessibility project, and an inclusive playground in Amherst Central Park. They will also address a resident issue regarding accessible parking and review their website and social media presence.

• Bike path phones – Town Board meeting Public Expression
• Multimedia accessibility project
• Brochure on sensory awareness in disabilities
• Inclusive playground in Amherst Central Park
• HOA resident issue/accessible parking

The committee approved a change in direction for the Sensory Awareness Project to focus on an experience piece and general resources. Members discussed accessibility issues regarding bike path phones, inclusive playground planning, and sidewalk obstructions.

• Approved June meeting minutes
• Approved Resolution 2022-713 to add Luci Miranda, Dave Whalen, and Barbara Robertson as voting members
• Approved shifting Sensory Awareness Project to an experience piece with general information and resource links

Historic Preservation Commission

The Amherst Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to review a demolition application for 145 Burbank and discuss preservation-related items, including possible landmark designations and updates on grants and repairs. The agenda includes both new and old business, with several items focused on potential landmarking of local properties.

• Demolition approval application for 145 Burbank
• Update on CLG grant submission and Preservation Day
• Main Street & Smallwood Drive historic gateway repairs
• Proposal for revision of the Historic Preservation Law
• Possible landmark designations: BNHV Properties, Westwood, Harlem Road Community Center, St. Pauls & St. Benedicts

The Historic Preservation Commission approved the demolition of a garage in a historic district with specific rebuilding conditions. The board also authorized payments for Preservation Day expenses and discussed ongoing landmark research and infrastructure repairs.

• Approved demolition of garage at 145 Burbank Drive on condition any new garage has same location and dimensions (6-0)
• Approved $231 payment to The Copy Store for banners and refreshments (6-0)
• Approved $310 reimbursement to Susan M. Palmer for Balloon Masters invoice (6-0)
• Approved June 14, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is meeting to consider a bond resolution for capital improvements to the Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village, along with various other resolutions including appointments, contracts, and budget transfers. The agenda also includes proclamations for the Police Department and Refuse Division, and public hearings.

• Resolution 2022-767: Bond resolution for $500,000 for Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village capital improvements
• Resolution 2022-768: Water drainage easement agreement at 2425-2455 Wehrle Drive
• Resolution 2022-766: Term limits for boards, committees, and commissions
• Resolution 2022-781: Amendment to 2022 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant
• Public improvement permits for Evergreen Landing Subdivision Phase V (sanitary, waterline, storm sewer, paving & curbing)

The Town Board approved a $500,000 bond for museum improvements, including roof replacement at the Steffen Building. The Board also established new term limits for various town boards and committees and approved several operational contracts and personnel appointments.

• Approved $500,000 bond for Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village museum improvements (5-0)
• Adopted new term limits for Town boards, committees, and commissions (5-0)
• Approved $37,869.52 contract with National Grid for Lou Gehrig Field electrical upgrades (5-0)
• Authorized $12,840.28 sole source payment to Peirce-Eagle Equipment Co. (5-0)
• Approved $52,300 purchase of ice resurfacer batteries from Enersys (5-0)
• Approved $4,400 Lexis Nexis subscription for the Building Department (5-0)
• Appointed Jason Bialkowski as Public Safety Dispatcher (5-0)
• Approved emergency use agreements with Williamsville Central School District for three recreation centers (5-0)

Amherst Veterans Committee

The committee finalized the program for the upcoming Unveiling Ceremony at the Amherst Veterans Memorial. Members scheduled memorial maintenance and coordinated the addition of new honoree names to the memorial.

• Finalized program for the Unveiling Ceremony
• Scheduled memorial 'sprucing up' for August 20, 2022
• Scheduled addition of honoree names for August 15-17
• Incorporated a memorial plaque for Jack Tower into the ceremony
• Selected Cadet Louis A. Sullivan to deliver the Tribute to Veterans speech
• Selected CAPT. Eugene M Sibick to present Comments from a Veteran

Traffic-Safety Board

The Amherst Traffic-Safety Board is meeting to discuss and act on a range of traffic and pedestrian safety items, including a new crosswalk and beacon on Heim Road, a parking restriction on Lebrun Road, and an extension of a school speed zone on Washington Highway. The board will also review several site plans and a rezoning request, including a proposed 8-lot subdivision and a medical office building.

• Heim Road pedestrian crossing request for crosswalk and rapid flashing beacon at Peanut Line
• Lebrun Road parking restriction request from Mona Drive to municipal boundary
• Washington Highway school speed zone extension toward Westmoreland Road
• 468 Harding Road proposed 8-lot subdivision
• 4110-4120 Sheridan Drive rezoning request from GB to DC-5 (6.27 acres)

The Board approved the installation of three asphalt speed humps on Westfield Road as a two-year test. Other decisions included extending a school speed zone on Washington Highway and installing a stop sign at Autumnview and Countryside.

• Approved 3 asphalt speed humps on Westfield Road for a 2-year test (8-1)
• Recommended Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon at Peanut Line and Heim Road (9-0)
• Approved 'No Parking' sign on Lebrun Road curve (9-0)
• Approved school zone extension on Washington Highway (9-0)
• Approved stop sign at Autumnview and Countryside intersection (6-3)
• Recommended crosswalks at Rosedale and Longmeadow (9-0)
• Approved 6-month leave of absence for member Michelle Nagel (9-0)
• Approved preliminary plat for 468 Harding with sidewalk requirements

Town Board

The Town Board is holding a special meeting to discuss economic development matters. The primary item is a resolution regarding a New York State Climate Smart Communities Grant application for the Northtown Center Ice Rink.

• Resolution 2022-765: NYS Climate Smart Communities Grant Application for Northtown Center Ice Rink refrigeration upgrades

The Town Board approved a resolution to apply for a New York State Climate Smart Communities Grant. The funds would be used for refrigeration upgrades at the Northtown Center Ice Rink.

• Approved application for $2,000,000 grant for Northtown Center Ice Rink Refrigeration Upgrades (4-0)

Open Government Advisory Board

The Open Government Advisory Board will hold a routine meeting to approve minutes from its last session and hear from the town attorney about Freedom of Information Law procedures and town policies. No substantive decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Review and approval of minutes from the previous meeting
• Town Attorney Stanley J. Sliwa discussing FOIL and town procedures/policies

Town Board

The Town Board will consider several rezoning requests and amendments to the Bicentennial Comprehensive Plan. The meeting also includes discussions on bond resolutions for infrastructure and various board appointments.

• Rezoning for 5117 & 5105 Sheridan Drive and 543 & 553 Mill Street
• $75,000 bond resolution for townwide curbing replacement
• $200,000 bond resolution for townwide smart signals upgrades
• $175,000 bond resolution for tree inventory and forestry management
• Amendments to Bicentennial Comprehensive Plan for 1720, 1740 & 1760 Maple Road

The Town Board approved several amendments to the Bicentennial Comprehensive Plan and zoning map, including a medical office project at 2605 Amherst Manor Drive. The Board also authorized bonds for town-wide curbing, smart signal upgrades, and a tree inventory project.

• Amended Comprehensive Plan for 1720, 1740 & 1760 Maple Road to Commercial Mixed-Use (4-1)
• Amended Comprehensive Plan and rezoned 2605 Amherst Manor Drive to Office Building (5-0)
• Amended Audubon Development Plan and rezoned 2691 North Forest Road to General Commercial (5-0)
• Approved $75,000 bond for town-wide curbing replacement (5-0)
• Approved $200,000 bond for town-wide smart signal upgrades (5-0)
• Approved $175,000 bond for Phase 2 Tree Inventory and Forestry Management Plan (5-0)
• Authorized purchase of one 2023 International HD Truck with snow plow for $240,600 (5-0)
• Appointed 9 Police Officers at an annual salary of $63,655 (5-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session with an agenda that is mostly procedural, including the Pledge of Allegiance and a closed executive session. The executive session will cover a personnel disciplinary issue, potential land acquisition (Westwood), a land acquisition update (Jurek Post), litigation status (Goldman v TOA), and a water drainage easement issue on Wehrle Drive. No formal votes or public hearings are listed on the agenda.

• Executive session on personnel disciplinary issue
• Potential land acquisition (Westwood)
• Land acquisition Jurek Post update
• Status of litigation Goldman v TOA
• Water drainage easement at 2425-2455 Wehrle

Tree Board

The Amherst Tree Board is meeting to approve the minutes from April 12, 2022, review the Market at Bassett Park event and make recommendations for next year, and discuss new business including a suburban tree nursery and potential new initiatives. The meeting includes public expression and is held via Zoom.

• Vote to approve minutes of April 12, 2022
• Review of Market at Bassett Park and recommendations for next year
• Discussion of Suburban Tree Nursery
• Discussion of new initiatives

The Amherst Tree Board approved the minutes of its April 12, 2022 meeting and discussed plans for a 2023 tree giveaway at the Bassett Park market, including signage and a possible Town Board resolution. Members also discussed the Suburban Tree Nursery, community outreach, and a speakers' bureau. The board approved its next meeting for Tuesday, September 13 at 6:30pm, preferring in person, and adjourned at 7:05pm.

• Approved minutes of April 12, 2022 meeting (motion carried)
• Approved next meeting date of Tuesday, September 13 at 6:30pm, preference for in person
• Adjourned at 7:05pm

Youth Board

The Amherst Youth Board is meeting to approve minutes from February through June 2022, receive committee and liaison reports, and hear the Executive Director's update on pools, summer programs, and a clothing drive. The agenda includes a presentation of the 2022 Community Survey findings by the Amherst Youth & Community Coalition. The meeting also includes farewells to outgoing youth members and planning for the September meeting location.

• Approval of minutes for February, March, April, May, and June 2022
• 2022 Community Survey Findings presentation
• Executive Director's report on pools, summer program updates, and Children & Youth Clothing Drive
• Farewell to outgoing youth members
• No August meeting scheduled

The Amherst Youth Board approved the minutes of its February 9, March 9, April 20, May 11 and June 8, 2022 meetings, and elected Krista Krause as Vice-Chairperson. Members heard committee and staff reports, including that the Spring 2022 community survey on youth alcohol and marijuana use drew 433 adult responses, and that non-residents must now be accompanied by a Town of Amherst resident to use the Clearfield pool on Saturdays. No August meeting will be held; the next meeting is September 14 at the Harlem Road Community Center.

• Approved minutes of Feb 9, Mar 9, Apr 20, May 11 and Jun 8, 2022 meetings (McClary/Daniels)
• Elected Krista Krause as Vice-Chairperson (Buscaglia/Cwierley)
• Adjourned the meeting (Suresh/Krause)
• No August meeting scheduled

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a regular meeting with several bond resolutions for town-wide improvements, including $200,000 for park improvements, $125,000 for tree planting, and $221,400 for bike path reconstruction. The board will also consider various contracts, appointments to boards and committees, and a local law on property maintenance. Public hearings and public expression periods are scheduled.

• Bond resolution for town-wide park improvements ($200,000)
• Bond resolution for town-wide tree planting and restoration ($125,000)
• Bond resolution for reconstruction of town bike paths ($221,400)
• Water drainage easement agreement at 2425-2455 Wehrle Drive
• Local law amending Chapter 151 on property maintenance

The Amherst Town Board approved three bond resolutions totaling $546,400 for park improvements, tree planting, and bike path reconstruction. The board also addressed various administrative items, including amusement licenses, personnel appointments, and legal service agreements. Additionally, the board denied a sidewalk waiver request for 71 Thornbury Drive, requiring the installation of sidewalks.

• Approved $200,000 bond for town-wide park improvements (5-0)
• Approved $125,000 bond for town-wide tree planting and restoration (5-0)
• Approved $221,400 bond for reconstruction of town bike paths (5-0)
• Denied sidewalk waiver for 71 Thornbury Drive (4-0)
• Appointed Martin Polowy as Senior Deputy Town Attorney (5-0)
• Approved Geico amusement licenses for August 14 and August 30 (5-0)
• Authorized travel for three staff members to New York City (5-0)
• Tabled local law amendment regarding property maintenance (no vote)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is meeting to conduct public hearings on four property-related items, including a reclassification at 2691 North Forest Road and comprehensive plan amendments for properties on Maple Road and North Forest Road. The board will also consider a zoning map amendment for 4252-4258 Ridge Lea Road, numerous board appointments, and a long list of resolutions covering contracts, settlements, and personnel actions. The agenda is largely routine, with many items being standard approvals.

• Public hearing: 2691 North Forest Road reclassification (Res. 2022-606)
• Public hearing: 1720, 1740 & 1760 Maple Road - Bicentennial Comprehensive Plan amendment (Res. 2022-607)
• Public hearing: 1811 & 1817 North Forest Road - Bicentennial Comprehensive Plan amendment (Res. 2022-608)
• Public hearing: 725 LeBrun Road (Res. 2022-609)
• Zoning map amendment for 4252-4258 Ridge Lea Road (Res. 2022-548)

The Amherst Town Board voted unanimously to designate a portion of the Boulevard Central District, including the Boulevard Mall, as an urban renewal area and to act as the Amherst Urban Renewal Agency (AURA). The board also approved a rezoning at 4252-4258 Ridge Lea Road for a warehouse project by a 4-1 vote, with Councilmember Bucki dissenting. Three public hearings on zoning and comprehensive plan amendments were adjourned or set for decision on July 25. Most other items were routine approvals on the consent agenda.

• Designated Boulevard Central District as urban renewal area and created Amherst Urban Renewal Agency (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning at 4252-4258 Ridge Lea Road for warehouse (4-1, Bucki nay)
• Set decision date for 2691 North Forest Road reclassification to July 25 (unanimous)
• Adjourned hearing on 1720, 1740 & 1760 Maple Road comprehensive plan amendment to July 25 (unanimous)
• Set decision date for 1811 & 1817 North Forest Road comprehensive plan amendment to July 25 (unanimous)
• Withdrew public hearing on 725 LeBrun Road historic designation appeal
• Approved budget transfers and amendments including $1.2M ARPA for Amherst Central Park (unanimous)
• Approved settlement of Article 7 tax matters for Windsor Park Retail Center, Uniland, Golden Triangle, PNY II, and others (unanimous)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session to discuss agenda items, followed by an executive session with updates on the opioid litigation settlement, the Micro Link program, and the Reed v TOA lawsuit. No formal votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Update on Opioid Litigation Settlement
• Update on Micro Link
• Update on Reed v TOA

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a special meeting to consider a single resolution: waiving attorney-client privilege and related materials regarding the Micro Link lawsuit. This is the only substantive item on the agenda, alongside the pledge and adjournment.

• Resolution 2022-669: Waiving attorney-client privilege and materials regarding Micro Link lawsuit

At a special meeting on June 25, 2022, the Amherst Town Board adopted Resolution 2022-669, authorizing Town Attorney Stanley J. Sliwa to waive attorney-client privilege and allow forensic accountant Mark Ferm to testify about a September 11, 2006 verbal report he gave to the Board in Executive Session. The resolution followed a June 22, 2022 decision by Judge Timothy J. Walker in Micro-Link LLC v. Town of Amherst. The vote was 4-0, with Councilmember Shawn Lavin absent. The Board then adjourned at 4:03 PM.

• Adopted Resolution 2022-669 authorizing waiver of attorney-client privilege in Micro-Link LLC v. Town of Amherst (4-0)
• Authorized Town Attorney Stanley J. Sliwa to allow Mark Ferm to testify about his September 11, 2006 Executive Session report (4-0)
• Adjourned the special meeting at 4:03 PM (4-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals is holding a regular meeting to hear 21 appeals and permit requests. These include special use permits for raising chickens and renewing temporary uses, as well as area variances for setbacks, fence heights, and signage. The board will also consider a use variance to expand a non-conforming veterinary hospital. The agenda is primarily a list of public hearings on these property-specific requests.

• 966 Dodge Road - special use permit to raise chickens
• 1317 Eggert Road - LED sign variance (66 sq ft, 290 ft from residential, 6.5 ft high, 3 ft from right-of-way)
• 4007 Main Street - LED sign variance (96 sq ft, 68 ft from residential)
• 3210 Millersport Highway - use variance to expand non-conforming veterinary hospital
• 4300 Millersport Highway - multiple setback variances for townhome and patio home buildings

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved several area variances and special use permits during its June 21, 2022, meeting. The Board denied two separate requests for LED message center signs at 1317 Eggert Road and 4007 Main Street, citing concerns regarding historic preservation and traffic safety. Several other items were adjourned to the August 16, 2022, meeting.

• Approved special use permit for chickens at 966 Dodge Road (5-0)
• Denied LED sign variance at 1317 Eggert Road (4-1)
• Denied LED sign variance at 4007 Main Street (4-1)
• Approved area variance for fence height at 264 Sundridge Drive (5-0)
• Approved area variance for building setbacks at 695 North Forest Road (4-0)
• Approved area variance for signage at 1501-1551 Niagara Falls Blvd (4-0)
• Tabled temporary use permit for 400 Hendricks Blvd (5-0)
• Tabled lot width variance for 1964 Kensington Avenue (5-0)

Planning Board

The Amherst Planning Board will hold public hearings on several site plans, rezoning requests, and a comprehensive plan amendment. Items include an office building parking expansion, an automotive dealership service building addition, a rezoning of 14.97 acres from CF to OB, and a comprehensive plan amendment. One rezoning request has been postponed at the petitioner's request. The board will also consider unfinished business, including a sketch plan for a 10-lot subdivision and a sidewalk waiver request.

• Site plan for office building parking expansion at 30-36 North Union Road (SP-1988-54H)
• Site plan for automotive dealership service building addition at 1025, 1135 & 1145 Millersport Highway (SP-1998-33F)
• Rezoning of 14.97 acres from CF to OB at 2605 Amherst Manor Drive (Z-2022-05)
• Rezoning of 1.75 acres from MS and R-4 to DC-3 at 5105 & 5117 Sheridan Drive and 543 & 553 Mill Street (Z-2022-04)
• Rezoning of 11.29 acres from GB to DC-5 at 35, 50 & 55 Crosspoint Parkway (Z-2022-06)

The Board approved rezoning for a medical office building and two other commercial/residential projects. It denied a 10-lot subdivision on Harding Road and a sidewalk waiver on Tonawanda Creek Road.

• Approved parking expansion at 30-36 North Union Road (7-0)
• Approved automotive service building addition at 1025, 1135 & 1145 Millersport Highway (7-0)
• Approved Comprehensive Plan amendment for medical office at 2605 Amherst Manor Road (7-0)
• Approved rezoning for medical office at 2605 Amherst Manor Drive (6-1)
• Approved rezoning for commercial project at 5105 & 5117 Sheridan Drive and 543 & 553 Mill Street (5-2)
• Approved rezoning for 208-unit residential project at 35, 50 & 55 Crosspoint Parkway (6-0)
• Denied 10-lot subdivision at 468 Harding Road (4-3)
• Denied sidewalk waiver request at 665 Tonawanda Creek Road (7-0)

Traffic-Safety Board

The Amherst Traffic-Safety Board is meeting to discuss new business items including requests for crosswalks, warning signs, and a parking restriction, as well as old business on intersection safety and traffic counts. They will also review three site plans for development projects, including a surgery center and a mixed-use development.

• Crosswalk with flashing beacon at Youngs/Renaissance
• Parking restriction at Buckeye/Sweet Home
• UBMD Surgery Center and Medical Office Building at 2605 Amherst Manor Drive
• Key Bank drive-through ATM at 3171 Sheridan Drive
• Sawyer Landing Mixed Use Development at 1081 North French Road

The Amherst Traffic Safety Board met on June 15, 2022 and approved several traffic items by 6-0 votes. It referred a request for a crosswalk with a rectangular rapid flashing beacon at Youngs/Renaissance to the Engineering Department to develop a plan with a cost estimate and then request a CIP project. The Board also approved two pedestrian signs near Saratoga Park, a no-parking restriction at Buckeye/Sweet Home, and site plans at 2605 Amherst Manor Drive, 3171 Sheridan Drive, and 1081 North French Road. Other requests, including a 'Cross Traffic Does Not Stop' sub-plaque at Richfield/Scott, were received and filed, and the Allenhurst/Cambridge item was held for speed and volume counts.

• Approved May 4, 2022 minutes as corrected (6-0)
• Referred Youngs/Renaissance crosswalk with RRFB request to Engineering for plan and cost estimate, then request CIP project (6-0)
• Received and filed Richfield/Scott 'Cross Traffic Does Not Stop' sub-plaque request (6-0)
• Approved two pedestrian signs (W11-2) in advance of Saratoga Park ADA ramps in eastbound and westbound directions (6-0)
• Approved 'No Parking' signs on both sides of Buckeye Road at Sweet Home Road, 30 feet from stop sign (6-0)
• Held Allenhurst/Cambridge 'Cross Traffic Does Not Stop' sub-plaque request for speed and volume counts
• Received and filed Delamere & Cranburne intersection safety concerns (no vote recorded)
• Referred Bentham East Parkway/2500 Kensington valet parking item back to owners for parking analysis and bump-in consideration (no vote recorded)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing on the proposed local landmark designation for 725 Lebrun and review a demolition application for 58 Brantwood. They will also discuss message center signs in Eggertsville/Snyder, HPC membership, and several old business items including possible landmark designations and a revision of the historic preservation law.

• Public hearing: proposed local landmark designation at 725 Lebrun
• Demolition approval application for 58 Brantwood
• Discussion of message center signs in Eggertsville/Snyder
• Update on CLG grant submission and Preservation Day
• Proposal for revision of the Historic Preservation Law of the Town of Amherst

The Historic Preservation Commission voted unanimously to withdraw the proposed local landmark designation for 725 Lebrun Road and to approve a demolition permit for the property, conditioned on the garage replacement and addition being built according to the applicant's submitted plans. The Commission also approved a demolition application for a roughly 400 sq. ft. garage at 58 Brantwood Road and approved prior meeting minutes. On LED message center signs proposed at two Eggertsville/Snyder churches, the Commission did not take a decision, instead agreeing to provide the Planning Department with documents on appropriate signage treatment before the June 21 Zoning Board of Appeals meeting.

• Withdrew proposed local landmark designation for 725 Lebrun Road (6-0, Redding absent)
• Reconsidered and approved demolition permit for 725 Lebrun Road, conditioned on garage replacement and addition matching submitted plans (6-0, Redding absent)
• Approved demolition application for ~400 sq. ft. garage at 58 Brantwood Road (6-0, Redding absent)
• Approved May 10, 2022 minutes (unanimous; Redding absent)
• Approved May 31, 2022 minutes (5-0; Palmer abstained, Redding absent)
• No vote taken on LED message center signs at St. Paul's Lutheran Church and St. Benedicts R.C. Church; Commission to send signage guidance documents to Planning Department before June 21 ZBA meeting

Amherst Community Diversity Commission

The Amherst Community Diversity Commission is meeting to review the Juneteenth program, discuss displays at the Senior Center and Library, receive reports from the School Board and Town liaisons, and consider the Punjabi Cultural/Baisakhi Mela. The agenda is routine, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Review of Juneteenth Program
• Display in Senior Center/Library
• School Board Liaison report
• Town Liaison report
• Punjabi Cultural/Baisakhi Mela

The Amherst Community Diversity Commission elected its officers for the year: Dr. Mohan Devgun as Chair, Pam Keifi as Vice Chair, Gul A. Rahman as Secretary, Anne Rohrer as Public Relations Chairperson, and Thomas Lucia as Education Coordinator Chairperson. The commission approved the minutes of its April 12, 2022 meeting. Members reviewed plans for a Juneteenth program on June 17, 2022, and postponed a library/senior center display and a Punjabi cultural show. The commission discussed requesting a budget of approximately $250–$500 from the Town of Amherst and agreed to hold no summer meetings, with the next meeting on September 13, 2022.

• Elected Dr. Mohan Devgun as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Pam Keifi as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Gul A. Rahman as Secretary (all in favor)
• Elected Anne Rohrer as Public Relations Chairperson (unanimous)
• Elected Thomas Lucia as Education Coordinator Chairperson (approved by all)
• Approved April 12, 2022 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Postponed library/senior center display until fall 2022
• Postponed Punjabi Cultural Show until July 2022

Recreation Commission

The Amherst Recreation Commission is meeting to approve minutes, hear a pickleball request, and receive reports from liaisons and staff. The agenda is mostly routine updates and reports.

• Approval of May 2022 minutes
• Pickleball request discussion
• Liaison reports from various sports and facilities

Amherst Committee on Disabilities

The Amherst Committee on Disabilities is meeting to discuss several accessibility initiatives, including bike path signage, multimedia accessibility, and a sensory awareness brochure. They will also follow up on previous discussions about assistance animal training and ADA coordination, and consider new business on work opportunities in the town.

• Bike path signage for emergency phones on bike path
• Multimedia accessibility project
• Brochure on sensory awareness in disabilities
• Committee's involvement with Willow Ridge/Parkview planning project
• Follow up on Assistance Animal training in the Town

The Amherst Committee on Disabilities approved its April minutes, agreed to prepare a press release for its completed multimedia accessibility project, and approved its remaining meeting schedule for 2022. The committee also discussed bike path signage updates, fair housing follow-ups, and a special award for Vice Chairperson David Wantuck.

• Approved April minutes
• Approved motion to prepare press release for the multimedia accessibility infographic (all in favor)
• Approved 2022 remaining meeting dates for Zoom (all in favor)

Youth Board

The Amherst Youth Board will review committee reports and liaison updates. The Executive Director will provide updates on the Northwest Amherst Community Center, including programs and partnerships.

• Approval of February, March, April, and May 2022 minutes
• Amherst Youth & Community Coalition Memorandum of Understanding
• Northwest Amherst Community Center program and finance updates
• Discussion of potential change to July meeting date

The Amherst Youth Board met on June 8, 2022, but approval of the February 9, March 9, April 20, and May 11, 2022 meeting minutes was tabled due to lack of quorum. No new business or old business was taken up, and no substantive decisions were voted on. The board reviewed a Memorandum of Understanding between the Amherst Youth Board and the Amherst Youth & Community Coalition covering member participation from June 2022 through December 2023, with no opposition recorded. Reports covered summer programs, the Northwest Amherst Community Center, a possible food truck purchase, and park vandalism.

• Approval of Feb 9, Mar 9, Apr 20, and May 11, 2022 minutes tabled due to lack of quorum
• Memorandum of Understanding with Amherst Youth & Community Coalition reviewed; no opposition recorded
• No old business and no new business acted on
• July meeting date to be changed due to staff scheduling conflict

Senior Services Advisory Board

The Amherst Senior Services Advisory Board is meeting to approve the minutes from its April 13, 2022 meeting and to receive reports from the Director of Senior Services, the Executive Director of Youth & Recreation, the Senior Services Program Coordinator, and the Councilmember liaison. Board members will also provide updates from their organizations and discuss new business. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific decisions or proposals listed.

• Approval of minutes from April 13, 2022 meeting
• Report from Melissa Abel, Director, Amherst Senior Services
• Report from Mary-Diana Pouli, Executive Director, Youth & Recreation Department
• Report from Tammy Jacobs, Program Coordinator, Amherst Senior Services
• Updates from Advisory Board members

The Amherst Senior Services Advisory Board met by Zoom on June 8, 2022 and approved its April 13, 2022 minutes. The rest of the meeting was reports and discussion: concerns about running the Senior Center gift shop with limited staff and volunteers, a planned member/Board survey on the gift shop, rising meal delivery numbers, staffing changes, and upcoming events including a June 17 Juneteenth celebration. No new programs, budgets, or policies were voted on.

• Approved April 13, 2022 minutes (motion by Beverly Fish, seconded by Michael Camilleri)
• Adjourned at 9:25 a.m. (motion by Beverly Fish, seconded by Michael Camilleri)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board will hold a regular meeting to vote on several resolutions, including parking restrictions for Tudor Court and Fair Woods Drive, a local law amendment, and a rezoning request for 4252-4258 Ridge Lea Road. The board will also appoint members to various committees and boards, and hear departmental reports including bond resolutions for vehicles and equipment totaling $1,262,000.

• Resolution 2022-548: Rezoning request for 4252-4258 Ridge Lea Road
• Resolution 2022-545 & 2022-546: Parking restrictions for Tudor Court and Fair Woods Drive
• Resolution 2022-549 to 2022-551: Bond resolutions totaling $432,000, $151,000, and $679,000 for vehicles and equipment
• Appointment of Melissa Abel to the Amherst Community Diversity Commission
• Award of bids for NARC Football Fieldhouse construction contracts

The Town Board authorized several bond resolutions for highway and engineering equipment and approved $2.4M in ARPA funds for the development of Amherst Central Park. The board also established new parking restrictions on Tudor Court and Fair Woods Drive.

• Approved $432,000 bond for Engineering Department vehicles and equipment (5-0)
• Approved $151,000 bond for Highway Department vehicles (5-0)
• Approved $679,000 bond for Highway Department equipment (5-0)
• Approved $2.4M ARPA subrecipient agreement for Amherst Central Park (5-0)
• Adopted parking restrictions for Tudor Court (5-0)
• Adopted parking restrictions for Fair Woods Drive (5-0)
• Approved $1.39M contract to 716 Site Contracting for Red Oak Drive waterline replacement (5-0)
• Approved $1.08M contract to Montante Construction for NARC Football Fieldhouse (5-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session to discuss the Boulevard Mall redevelopment and review agenda items for the upcoming Town Board meeting. The board will also enter executive session to discuss personnel matters, including potential employee discipline and a hiring issue, as well as an update on litigation in Micro Link v ToA and street lighting.

• Discussion of Boulevard Mall (B. Kulpa) - 20 mins
• Executive session on personnel matter (potential employee discipline)
• Executive session on personnel matter (hiring issue)
• Update on litigation Micro Link v ToA
• Discussion of street lighting

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission is holding a public hearing to consider a proposed local landmark designation for 725 LeBrun. This is the only substantive item on the agenda; the rest is procedural roll call and adjournment.

• Public hearing on proposed local landmark designation for 725 LeBrun

The Historic Preservation Commission held a public hearing regarding the proposed local landmark designation of 725 Lebrun Road. The commission left the hearing open for further written comments until June 13, 2022, with the next hearing scheduled for June 14, 2022. No final decision was made on the designation or the pending garage demolition permit.

• Public hearing for 725 Lebrun Road landmark designation left open
• Special meeting closed (5-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board will hold public hearings and vote on three bond resolutions totaling about $1.7 million for waterline replacements on Bauman Road, engineering department vehicles and equipment, and Eggertsville drainage improvements. The board will also consider a zoning amendment for 7078 Transit Road, adopt the Advance Amherst Recovery Plan, and make numerous board and committee appointments.

• Bond resolution for 2022 waterline replacements on Bauman Road ($410,000)
• Bond resolution for engineering department vehicle and equipment ($432,000)
• Bond resolution for Eggertsville drainage improvements ($875,000)
• Adoption of local law to amend zoning approval conditions at 7078 Transit Road
• Adoption of Advance Amherst Recovery Plan as official recovery plan

The Town Board approved three bond resolutions totaling $1.717 million for water line replacements, engineering equipment, and drainage improvements. The board also adopted the 'Advance Amherst Recovery Plan' and approved several personnel appointments and contract awards.

• Approved $410,000 bond for Bauman Road waterline replacements (4-0)
• Approved $432,000 bond for engineering vehicle and equipment (4-0)
• Approved $875,000 bond for Eggertsville drainage improvements (4-0)
• Adopted 'Advance Amherst Recovery Plan' (4-0)
• Approved zoning amendment for 7078 Transit Road (4-0)
• Appointed Annette Herrman as Public Relations Coordinator (4-0)
• Waived sign fees for AAUW at 480 Evans Street (4-0)

Town Board

The Town Board will hold a work session to discuss various agenda items. The session includes an executive session to address personnel appointments, opioid litigation, Micro Link litigation, and property acquisition in Westwood.

• Appointment for Senior Fire Dispatcher
• Update on Opioid Litigation
• Update on Litigation (Micro Link)
• Discussion of property acquisition (Westwood)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals approved nine special use permits and area variances at its May 17, 2022 meeting, including a permit for chickens at 1797 North Forest Road and a small cell antenna on Hopkins Road. Most items passed unanimously; the 30-36 North Union Road variance passed 3-0 with member Ellen Parker recused. A request for an LED message center sign at 4007 Main Street was adjourned to the June 21, 2022 meeting after residents spoke in opposition. Member Kelly J. Philips was absent.

• Approved special use permit to raise chickens at 1797 North Forest Road (unanimous)
• Approved special use permit for small cell antenna on National Grid Pole No. 2460 at 2435 Hopkins Road (unanimous)
• Approved area variance for wall signs at 2601 Millersport Highway (unanimous)
• Approved building setback variance at 281 Casey Road (unanimous)
• Approved fence variance at 730 Casey Road with condition of chain link or ornamental iron fence (unanimous)
• Approved fence height variance at 2 Pino Alto Court (unanimous)
• Approved area variance for 30-36 North Union Road (3-0, Parker recused)
• Approved sign variance at 9310 & 9320 Transit Road (unanimous)

Youth Board

The Amherst Youth Board met on May 11, 2022, but approval of the February 9, March 9, and April 20, 2022 meeting minutes was tabled due to lack of quorum. The rest of the meeting consisted of committee, liaison, chairperson, and staff reports on programs and events, with no votes or formal decisions recorded. The board currently has 6 adult vacancies and 1 youth vacancy. The next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, June 8, 2022 at 7:00 PM at the Harlem Road Community Center.

• Approval of February 9, March 9, and April 20, 2022 minutes tabled due to lack of quorum

Historic Preservation Commission

The Amherst Historic Preservation Commission voted 6-0 to reconsider its April 12, 2022 actions on 725 Lebrun Road, then voted 6-0 to propose historic designation for the property and to hold a special public hearing on May 31, 2022 at 7 pm. Motions to rescind the April landmark designation and the April denial of a demolition permit for the ca. 1925 detached garage both failed for lack of a motion. The commission also approved the April 12, 2022 minutes, approved a BNHV certificate of appropriateness, and moved its June 7, 2022 meeting to June 14, 2022.

• Approved April 12, 2022 minutes (unanimous, 6-0; Redding absent)
• Voted 6-0 to reconsider the April 12, 2022 local landmark designation of 725 Lebrun Road
• Voted 6-0 to reconsider the April 12, 2022 denial of a demolition permit for the ca. 1925 garage at 725 Lebrun Road (Palmer abstained)
• No motion made to rescind the April 12 landmark designation; no motion made to rescind the April demolition permit denial
• Voted 6-0 to hold a special public hearing on May 31, 2022 at 7 pm; 30-day notice waived with applicant's agreement
• Voted 6-0 to propose historic designation for 725 Lebrun Road
• Voted 6-0 to move the June 7, 2022 meeting to June 14, 2022
• Approved BNHV certificate of appropriateness (unanimous, 6-0; Redding absent)

Recreation Commission

The Recreation Commission approved its March 2022 minutes and adjourned. Most of the meeting consisted of briefings rather than votes: golf course capital plans, the Northwest Amherst Community Center plan, and construction updates at several athletic fields. The Youth & Recreation Department reported summer camp is full, summer program registration opened May 9th, and the first Farmers' Market is June 12th.

• Approved March 2022 minutes (motion by Hart, seconded by Day; passed)
• Adjourned the meeting at 5:45pm (motion by Hart, seconded by Day)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board approved two bond resolutions: $380,000 for youth and recreation maintenance equipment and $185,000 for synthetic turf replacement at the North Amherst Recreation Center fieldhouse. The board also adopted a local law establishing a Design Advisory Board, approved a license agreement for the Williamsville Farmer's Market, and authorized several bid awards and settlements. A public hearing on amending Chapter 151 (Property Maintenance) was tabled to May 23, and a resolution on term limits for town committees was withdrawn.

• Approved $380,000 bond for youth and recreation equipment (4-0)
• Approved $185,000 bond for fieldhouse synthetic turf replacement (4-0)
• Adopted local law establishing Design Advisory Board (4-0)
• Approved license agreement for Williamsville Farmer's Market 2022 season (4-0)
• Tabled property maintenance local law to May 23 meeting (4-0)
• Withdrew resolution on term limits for town committees
• Approved settlement of Article 7 tax case North Buffalo Lodging Ventures (4-0)
• Approved $30,925 bid for Willow Ridge picnic tables to Titan Development (4-0)

Traffic-Safety Board

The Board recommended Klein Road for a future safety project and approved adding a section of Hopkins Road to designated truck routes. Requests to remove stop signs at Cranburne Lane and Fenwick Road and to add deer warning signs on Caesar Boulevard were denied.

• Recommended Klein Road for safety project when funds are available (7-0)
• Approved request for Highway Department to paint shoulder on Klein Road (7-0)
• Recommended adding section of Hopkins Road to designated truck routes (7-0)
• Denied removal of stop signs at Cranburne Lane and Fenwick Road (7-0)
• Denied request for deer warning sign on Caesar Boulevard
• Requested departmental reviews for valet and sight distance at 2500 Kensington Ave (7-0)
• Approved April 6, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0-2)
• Approved Major Site Plan SP-1998-33_F for 1025, 1135 & 1145 Millersport Highway

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a regular meeting with public hearings on a property maintenance local law and two zoning map amendments for properties at 6621 Main Street & 20 Oakwood Drive and 7740 Transit Road. The board will also consider numerous resolutions, including bond authorizations for drainage and equipment, contract awards, and appointments to various boards and committees.

• Public hearing on Local Law Amending Chapter 151 - Property Maintenance
• Zoning map amendment for 6621 Main Street & 20 Oakwood Drive (Z-2021-11)
• Zoning map amendment for 7740 Transit Road (Z-2022-01)
• Bond for Eggertsville Drainage Improvements - $875,000
• Bond for Engineering Department Equipment & Vehicle - $432,000

The Town Board adopted zoning changes for properties on Main Street and Transit Road and authorized several public hearings for infrastructure bonds. The board also approved various vendor contracts, personnel appointments, and an urgent need certification for a new communications tower.

• Amended zoning map for 6621 Main St & 20 Oakwood Dr to Office Building (OB) (5-0)
• Amended zoning map for 7740 Transit Road to Deep Corridor 5 (DC-5) (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearings for bonds: Eggertsville Drainage ($875K), Bauman Rd Waterlines ($410K), and Engineering Equipment ($432K) (5-0)
• Authorized urgent need certification for Northern Amherst Communications Tower (5-0)
• Awarded town-wide roofing bid to Jos. A. Sanders & Sons, Inc. (5-0)
• Approved $181,911.54 emergency repair for sanitary sewer collapse at Campbell Blvd (5-0)
• Authorized $50,000 housing rehab loan for Oakwood Drive household (5-0)
• Appointed Antonella Stravalaci, Jame Olivieri, Colton McKenna, and Janice Zapfel to various roles (5-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session with an agenda that includes an executive session to discuss a land acquisition related to Westwood and a personnel matter. No other substantive items are listed, making this a procedural meeting focused on those two closed-door topics.

• Executive session: Land acquisition (Westwood)
• Executive session: Personnel matter

Planning Board

The Amherst Planning Board will hold public hearings on several site plans and a rezoning request. The most consequential item is a request by Benderson Development Company to rezone 14.81 acres at 4252-4258 Ridge Lea Road from CTR-8 to RD and GI. Two items (a proposed dentistry school and the Muir Woods Phase IV subdivision) have been postponed at the petitioners' request, and a self-storage facility proposal was adjourned from the previous meeting.

• Rezone 14.81 acres at 4252-4258 Ridge Lea Road from CTR-8 to RD & GI (Z-2021-07, Benderson Development Company LLC)
• Proposed self-storage facility at 321 Commerce Drive (SP-2022-01, 321 Commerce LLC) — adjourned from March 17 meeting
• Site plan amendment for automobile dealership building additions at 6868-6900 Transit Road (SP-2000-14_C, Basil Family Dealerships)
• Postponed: proposed dentistry school and parking lot expansion at 2525 Kensington Avenue (SP-2022-02, Philipps Bros Supply Inc.)
• Postponed: Muir Woods Phase IV 8-lot subdivision final plat at 520 Campbell Boulevard (SP-2021-24A, Ciminelli Muir Woods)

The Amherst Planning Board approved a site plan for a 19,400-square-foot self-storage facility at 321 Commerce Drive, consisting of four single-story buildings, with a Negative Declaration under SEQR. The board also approved a rezoning of 14.81 acres at 4252-4258 Ridge Lea Road from CTR-8 to RD and GI for a warehouse and soap-products facility, with one abstention. Two other site plans — a proposed dentistry school at 2525 Kensington Avenue and the Muir Woods Phase IV subdivision — were adjourned to the May 19, 2022 meeting at the petitioners' requests. The board also approved an extension of a previously approved office/warehouse site plan at 2425-2445 Wehrle Drive.

• Approved Negative Declaration and site plan for 19,400 sq ft self-storage facility at 321 Commerce Drive (6-0, Gilmour absent)
• Approved rezoning 14.81 acres at 4252-4258 Ridge Lea Road from CTR-8 to RD and GI (5-0, Chmiel abstained, Gilmour absent)
• Adjourned dentistry school and parking lot expansion at 2525 Kensington Avenue to May 19, 2022 (6-0, Gilmour absent)
• Adjourned Muir Woods Phase IV 8-lot subdivision final plat at 520 Campbell Boulevard to May 19, 2022 (6-0, Gilmour absent)
• Approved extension of site plan approval for office/warehouse building at 2425-2445 Wehrle Drive (6-0, Gilmour absent)
• Approved March 17, 2022 meeting minutes (6-0, Gilmour absent)

Records Management Advisory Board

The Records Management Advisory Board is meeting to discuss administrative matters, review a consultant's report, and receive updates on the inventory project for engineering records and LGRMIF grant work. They will also consider ideas for the Town Clerk's records management budget and plans for a new records center.

• Review of consultant's report and delivery to Town Board and Department Heads
• Status report on inventory project with Town's Engineering Records
• Review of LGRMIF Grant Program and future deadline
• Status of LGRMIF Grant work in Building Department
• Plans for new Records Center

The board met to discuss records management initiatives, including a proposed records center, updates to the town's policy manual, and potential budget requests. No formal votes were taken during this meeting; the session focused on administrative planning and consultant reports regarding record inventories and storage costs.

• Established quarterly meeting schedule
• Discussed proposal for Engineering Department records inventory
• Reviewed status of 2021 LGRMIF grant work

Youth Board

The Amherst Youth Board is holding a regular meeting to discuss routine business, including approval of minutes, committee and liaison reports, and an executive director's update. The agenda includes updates on COVID, personnel, programs, and a finance report, as well as member resignations. This is a standard administrative meeting with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Approval of February and March 2022 minutes
• Committee reports: Finance, Youth Consortium, Family Room, Amherst Youth & Community Coalition
• Liaison reports from Councilmember Shawn Lavin and Amherst Youth Foundation's Mary-Diana Pouli
• Executive Director's report: COVID, personnel, program updates, Jolly Boys Meat Raffle on May 6, finance report
• Chairperson's report on member resignations

The Amherst Youth Board met on April 20, 2022 but could not achieve a quorum, so it tabled approval of the February 9 and March 9, 2022 meeting minutes and was unable to adjourn. No new business was taken up. The meeting consisted mainly of committee, chairperson, and executive director reports, including updates on programs, staffing, and facilities.

• Tabled approval of February 9, 2022 minutes (no quorum)
• Tabled approval of March 9, 2022 minutes (no quorum)
• Unable to adjourn due to lack of quorum
• No new business

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a regular meeting to hear 10 appeals, including special use permits for home occupations and area variances for setbacks, garage height, fence height, accessory structures, and signage. The board will also approve minutes from the March 22, 2022 meeting.

• 288 Quail Hollow Lane: special use permit for law office home occupation
• 178 Patton Place: special use permit for fitness instruction studio
• 39 Hallmark Court: variance for 15-ft rear setback (required 30 ft)
• 58 Brantwood Road: variance for 21.2-ft garage height (max 20 ft)
• 100 International Drive: variance for EV charging station setback (85 ft vs 115 ft)

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals approved all 10 items on its April 19, 2022 agenda, including two Type II home occupation special use permits and eight area variances. One approval, a fence height variance at 99 N Parrish Drive, passed 4-1 with Kelly J. Philips voting no; the rest were unanimous. The board also accepted its March 22, 2022 minutes 4-0, with Ellen Parker abstaining, and adjourned at 8:12 PM.

• Accepted March 22, 2022 minutes (4-0, Parker abstained)
• Approved special use permit for law office at 288 Quail Hollow Lane (unanimous)
• Approved special use permit with condition for fitness studio at 178 Patton Place (unanimous); garage doors must be closed while used for business
• Approved area variance for rear addition at 39 Hallmark Court (unanimous)
• Approved area variance for garage height at 58 Brantwood Road (unanimous)
• Approved area variance for building setback at 130 Bondcroft Drive (unanimous)
• Approved area variance for fence height at 99 N Parrish Drive (4-1, Philips opposed)
• Approved area variance for EV charging station setback at 100 International Drive (unanimous)

Open Government Advisory Board

The Open Government Advisory Board will review and approve prior meeting minutes and discuss the Buffalo Niagara Coalition for Open Government's report card on local government website transparency. The agenda includes public comments and new business. The attached report grades 16 municipalities on online access to agendas, minutes, FOIL forms, and other transparency measures.

• Review of Buffalo Niagara Coalition for Open Government report card
• Approval of minutes from last meeting
• Public comments welcome
• New/other business

Historic Preservation Commission

The Amherst Historic Preservation Commission will hold a virtual meeting on April 12, 2022, to review applications, discuss potential landmark designations, and consider revisions to local preservation laws. The meeting will include public comment and updates on grant submissions and annual reports.

• 725 Lebrun garage demolition approval application
• Proposal to revise the Historic Preservation Law of the Town of Amherst
• Main Street & Smallwood Drive historic gateway repairs
• BNHV properties research for possible landmarking
• Westwood possible landmark designation

The Historic Preservation Commission voted 5-1 to deny a demolition permit for the ca. 1925 garage at 725 Lebrun Road, citing threats to the architectural integrity of the primary structure from a proposed two-story addition and attached three-car garage. The Commission then voted 6-0 to recommend the property as a local landmark under criteria A(i) and A(ii). In other business, the Commission approved the March 8, 2022 minutes, moved the November 8, 2022 meeting to November 10, 2022, submitted its 2021 annual report, and approved the Certified Local Government 2021 Annual Report. No action was taken on the Local Meeting Law amendment; meetings will be in-person starting in May.

• Denied demolition permit for ca. 1925 garage at 725 Lebrun Road (Ayes 5, Noes 1, Absent 1)
• Recommended 725 Lebrun Road for local landmark designation under criteria A(i) and A(ii) (Ayes 6, Noes 0, Absent 1)
• Approved March 8, 2022 HPC minutes (Ayes 6, Noes 0, Absent 1)
• Amended 2022 meeting calendar: November 8 meeting changed to November 10 (Ayes 6, Noes 0, Absent 1)
• Submitted 2021 HPC annual report (Ayes 6, Noes 0, Absent 1)
• Approved Certified Local Government 2021 Annual Report (Ayes 6, Noes 0, Absent 1)

Amherst Community Diversity Commission

The Amherst Community Diversity Commission is meeting to elect a chair, approve March minutes, and discuss upcoming cultural events including a Juneteenth Festival and Punjabi Cultural show. The agenda also includes liaison reports, old and new business, and an acknowledgement of service for Dr. Qazi.

• Election of Chair
• Juneteenth Festival
• Punjabi Cultural show
• School Board Liaison report
• Acknowledgement of service (Dr. Qazi)

The Amherst Community Diversity Commission approved its April 12, 2022 meeting minutes unanimously. No chair or vice chair was elected; Dr. Mohan Devgun offered to serve as chair and Pam Keifi for vice chair, with a final vote planned for the May 2022 meeting. Members heard updates on the Juneteenth event, a Punjabi Cultural Show on May 20, 2022, holiday displays, and a farewell plaque for former chairperson Dr. Khalid Qazi.

• Approved April 12, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting; next meeting May 10, 2022 at 5:30pm via Zoom (unanimous)
• No vote taken on chair or vice chair; decision deferred to May 2022 meeting

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a regular meeting with several public hearings, including rezoning requests for properties on Main Street, Oakwood Drive, and Transit Road, as well as a $1.35 million bond for streetlighting in the Evergreen Landing subdivision. The board will also consider numerous resolutions, including bond authorizations for security and paving, settlements of tax certiorari cases, and appointments to various boards and committees.

• Public hearing: Rezoning 6621 Main Street & 20 Oakwood Drive (Resolution 2022-346)
• Public hearing: Rezoning 7740 Transit Road (Resolution 2022-347)
• Bond resolution: Evergreen Landing Subdivision streetlighting, $1.35M (Resolution 2022-345)
• Bond resolutions: Townwide security ($100,000), parking lot paving ($110,000), asphalt sealing ($100,000)
• Settlements of Article 7 tax certiorari matters for Uniland, Flint Road, and Tim Donut properties

The Amherst Town Board approved a $1.35 million bond for streetlighting in the Evergreen Landing Subdivision and adopted PILOT agreements for Amherst Senior Housing LLC and Sutton Place. The board also adopted local laws on abandoned vehicles and property maintenance, approved several rezoning public hearings for future decision dates, and authorized numerous routine contracts, budget transfers, and appointments. All votes were unanimous.

• Adopted $1.35M bond for Evergreen Landing Subdivision streetlighting (5-0)
• Adopted PILOT agreement with Amherst Senior Housing LLC for 15 years (5-0)
• Adopted PILOT agreement with Sutton Place as amended (5-0)
• Adopted local law amending Chapter 184 on abandoned vehicles (5-0)
• Adjourned public hearing on local law amending Chapter 151 on property maintenance to April 25 (5-0)
• Adopted parking restrictions on Plymouth Place (5-0)
• Set April 25 decision date for rezoning at 6621 Main Street and 20 Oakwood Drive (5-0)
• Set April 25 decision date for rezoning at 7740 Transit Road (5-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session to discuss several legal and administrative matters, including property acquisitions, the opioid litigation settlement, and the status of two lawsuits. The agenda is primarily procedural, with an executive session for confidential updates and attorney-client discussions.

• Update on Property Acquisitions (2)
• Update on Opioid Litigation Settlement
• Status of Claim Olivieri v TOA
• Status of Micro Link Lawsuit
• Attorney Client Discussions on Town Code Amendments

Traffic-Safety Board

The Amherst Traffic-Safety Board will consider a request to lower the speed limit and post a weight restriction on Campbell Boulevard, and will review several traffic studies and parking requests. The board will also discuss site plans and a rezoning request for properties on Sweet Home Road, including a proposed automobile dealership and a dentistry school expansion.

• Campbell Boulevard – request to lower speed limit and post weight restriction
• 1400-1404 & 1408-1416 Sweet Home Road – rezoning 7.43 acres from RD to CRT-8 and CRT-5
• 10 Campbell Boulevard – proposed automobile dealership
• 2525 Kensington Avenue – proposed Philipps Bros/Shatkin School of Dentistry and parking expansion
• Tudor Court – parking restriction around cul-de-sac bulb

The Amherst Traffic-Safety Board approved sending two revised DiDonato Associates traffic studies — for Brompton Road and Park Club Lane — to the Town Board and Highway Department to seek funding, with the radar speed sign and gutters on Brompton Road listed as optional. The Board also approved a 'No Parking from 7 am-4 pm school days' restriction on the bulb of Tudor Court and moved forward with its earlier bike-lane recommendation for Longmeadow Road after a second survey drew a 36% response rate with 88% support. It voted to ask the County to stripe the entire stretch of Heim Road from Dodge to North Forest with a double yellow centerline. A Rockingham Counts item was held due to weather, and the minutes record no site plan or rezoning items.

• Approved March 2, 2022 minutes as written (6-0)
• Approved 'No Parking from 7 am-4 pm school days' on the bulb of Tudor Court between #33 and #26 (7-0)
• Moved forward with original Longmeadow Road bike-lane recommendation after second survey showed 36% response, 88% support (7-0)
• Forwarded final Brompton Road study to Town Board and Highway Department for funding, radar speed sign and gutters optional (7-0)
• Referred Park Club Lane report from DiDonato Associates to Town Board as written, asking to find funding (6-1, Rider opposed)
• Approved turning the meeting over from Vice Chairman Dionne to Chairman Fraas (7-0)
• Approved sending a letter to the County requesting double yellow centerline striping on Heim Road from Dodge to North Forest (7-0)
• Rockingham Counts item held due to weather

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board met on March 28, 2022, to conduct routine business including approving minutes, memorializing actions, and appointing members to various boards and committees. The board also addressed zoning map amendments, legal settlements, and departmental resolutions.

• Adoption of Local Law to amend zoning map for 3225 & 3275 Millersport Highway (Z-2021-08)
• Adoption of Local Law to amend zoning map for 100 Maple Road (Z-2021-10)
• Settlement of Article 7 Matter with Key Bank (3920 Main St)
• Settlement of Article 7 Matter with McDonald's USA LLC (1970 Kensington Avenue)
• Award of Bid #2022004 for Police and Fire Control Uniforms

The Amherst Town Board adopted two zoning map amendments: 3325 & 3275 (portion) Millersport Highway from GB and R-3 to MFR-5 and R-3 (4-1, Bucki voting no), and 100 Maple Road from GB to SC-3 (5-0). The board also approved an emergency purchase of up to $338,636.25 with National Water Main Cleaning for sewer lining at the Campbell Boulevard collapse site, and repealed Chapter 15 (Employee Position Vacancy Control Plan). Most other items passed unanimously on the consent agenda, including several tax assessment settlements and personnel appointments.

• Adopted Local Law to rezone 3325 & 3275 (portion) Millersport Highway from GB and R-3 to MFR-5 and R-3 (4-1, Bucki nay)
• Adopted Local Law to rezone 100 Maple Road from GB to SC-3 (5-0)
• Approved emergency purchase with National Water Main Cleaning for CIPP UV lining at Campbell Boulevard sewer collapse, not to exceed $338,636.25 (5-0, as amended)
• Adopted Local Law repealing Chapter 15 - Employee Position Vacancy Control Plan (5-0)
• Approved Personnel Action Procedure Policy replacing the Vacancy Control Plan (5-0)
• Authorized Historic Preservation grant application to NYSOPRHP up to $30,000 with up to $15,000 Town match (5-0)
• Approved settlement of Article 7 tax matters for Key Bank, Prisha Realty LLC, Jonathan Bevilacqua, 3D Sheridan LLC, Sheridan Center LLC, and McDonald's USA LLC (all 5-0)
• Authorized abandonment proceedings for 160 Campus Drive and up to $1,000 for lead paint/asbestos assessment (5-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session to review agenda items for an upcoming meeting. They will present a proclamation for Fair Housing Month and discuss potential town property acquisitions in executive session.

• Presentation of 'Fair Housing Month' Proclamation to Community Development Staff
• Executive session on potential Town property acquisition (5 items)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on six area variance requests, including several for LED signage, building setbacks, and landscaping. One item, a large mixed-use development at 1501-1555 Niagara Falls Blvd, requests multiple variances from zoning rules. A request for 3800 Sheridan Drive was adjourned from a prior meeting and will be heard now.

• 6930 Transit Road: LED reader board sign 85 ft from residential district (requires 500 ft)
• 5117 Sheridan Drive: LED sign 65 ft from residential district and exceeds sign area by 49.5 sq ft
• 39 Hallmark Court: rear addition 15 ft setback (requires 30 ft)
• 2280 Dodge Road: patio shelter roof 1 ft from property line (requires 3 ft) and 0 ft from dwelling (requires 5 ft)
• 1501-1555 Niagara Falls Blvd: multiple variances for drive aisle, street type, frontage, outdoor amenity space, transparency, blank wall length, store entrance spacing, travel lane width, gutter pan, and turning lane

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals accepted the February 22, 2022 minutes and approved several area variances for signage, building setbacks, and site layouts with conditions where specified. One variance request for a building setback at 39 Hallmark Court was adjourned to April 19, 2022. The board also approved a landscaping variance for 3800 Sheridan Drive after the petitioner withdrew part of the request.

• Accepted February 22, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved signage area variance with conditions for 6930 Transit Road (4-0)
• Approved signage area variances with conditions for 5117 Sheridan Drive (3-1)
• Adjourned building setback variance for 39 Hallmark Court to April 19, 2022 (4-0)
• Approved building setback area variances for 2280 Dodge Road (4-0)
• Approved multiple area variances for 1501-1555 Niagara Falls Boulevard (3-0, 1 recused)
• Approved landscaping area variance for 3800 Sheridan Drive (4-0)

Planning Board

The Amherst Planning Board will hold public hearings on five items: amendments to two major site plans for retail redevelopment, a new self-storage facility, a request to relieve zoning conditions on a Transit Road property, and a proposed local law to create a Design Advisory Board. No subdivisions or unfinished business are on the agenda. The board also holds a 6:00 PM work session before the regular meeting.

• Amendment to major site plan SP-1985-42_J for retail plaza redevelopment at 1501-1551 Niagara Falls Boulevard (Benderson Development Company LLC)
• Eastview Plaza building addition and loading dock, SP-1984-39V, at 8150-8250 Transit Road (Benderson Development Company LLC)
• Proposed self-storage facility, SP-2022-01, at 321 Commerce Drive (321 Commerce LLC)
• Request for relief of zoning conditions (limiting uses), Z-1997-12A, at 7078 Transit Road (Alix Holdings 7078 LLC)
• Proposed local law amending Chapter 5 of Town Code to establish a Design Advisory Board (Town of Amherst)

The Amherst Planning Board approved major site plan amendments for a retail plaza redevelopment at Niagara Falls Boulevard and a building addition at Eastview Plaza. The board also approved a zoning condition relief request for a vehicle graphics facility on Transit Road and a local law amendment regarding the Design Advisory Board. Additionally, a self-storage facility project was adjourned to the April meeting.

• Approved major site plan amendment for retail plaza redevelopment at 1501-1551 Niagara Falls Boulevard (6-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved building addition and loading dock for Eastview Plaza at 8150-8250 Transit Road, including Negative Declaration (6-0, 1 abstention)
• Adjourned proposed self-storage facility at 321 Commerce Drive to April 21, 2022 (7-0)
• Approved relief of zoning conditions for 7078 Transit Road to allow vehicle lettering, graphics, and wraps (7-0)
• Approved local law amendment to Chapter 5 regarding the Design Advisory Board (7-0)
• Approved meeting minutes from January 13, 2022 (4 ayes, 1 absent, 2 abstentions)
• Approved meeting minutes from February 17, 2022 (6 ayes, 1 abstention)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board will hold five public hearings on zoning, sewer maintenance, and local laws, and vote on several bond resolutions for infrastructure projects. The meeting also includes appointments to local boards and committees.

• 100 Maple Road Rezoning (Resolution 2022-262)
• Sewer Maintenance Building Roof Restoration - $175,000 (Resolution 2022-263)
• Audubon Golf Course Improvements - $500,000 (Resolution 2022-270)
• Evergreen Landing Subdivision Streetlighting - $1,350,000 (Resolution 2022-274)
• Award Bid for Harlem Road Community Center Overhead Door Replacement (Resolution 2022-280)

The Town Board approved several bond resolutions for park and roadway improvements, including $500,000 for Audubon Golf Course and $224,700 for Morningside Subdivision. It also adopted zoning text amendments for mixed-use regulations and approved a rezoning for 2160 & 2170 North Forest Road. Several other public hearings were scheduled or adjourned to March 28 and April 11.

• Approved $500,000 bond for Audubon Golf Course improvements (4-0)
• Approved $224,700 bond for Morningside Subdivision roadway reconstruction (4-0)
• Approved $100,000 bond for Amherst Gateway Park (4-0)
• Approved $175,000 bond for Sewer Maintenance Building roof restoration (4-0)
• Approved rezoning of 2160 & 2170 North Forest Road to NCD-ND (3-1)
• Adopted Local Law amending Zoning Text Part 5A Mixed-Use Regulations (4-0)
• Approved $5,000 acquisition of 44 Sunset Ct. for housing program (4-0)
• Appointed Ann Nichols as Chairman of the Zoning Board of Appeals (4-0)

Town Board

The Town Board will hold a work session to discuss various administrative and legal matters. The session includes an executive session to discuss potential property acquisitions, roadway ownership litigation, and a community center lease.

• Northwest Amherst Community Center Lease discussion
• Potential Town Property Acquisitions (3 items)
• Potential lawsuit regarding roadway ownership
• Article 7, 3920 Main Street
• Status of Community Host Agreement (solar)

Open Government Advisory Board

The Open Government Advisory Board will hold a procedural meeting to discuss its annual priorities, including the Freedom of Information Law. No decisions are scheduled; the board will gather input on areas of focus for the year.

The Open Government Advisory Board met on March 10, 2022 with Chair Meyer, Jason Sinsaubagh, Roy DeFrances, Ron Shubert, and liaison Mike Szukala present. The board discussed making Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) requests and processes more accessible to Amherst residents, which Chair Meyer said is the board's focus this year. Minutes from the previous meeting were not approved and will be taken up at the next scheduled meeting. A member of the public questioned how meetings are conducted and raised concerns about private email addresses being used for public business, asking the board to look into it. No motions, votes, or formal actions are recorded in these minutes.

• No formal decisions, votes, or approvals recorded in these minutes
• Minutes from the previous meeting deferred to the next scheduled meeting for approval
• FOIL accessibility identified as the board's focus for the year (discussion only, no action taken)
• Public comment raised concerns about private email use for public business; no board action recorded

Youth Board

The Amherst Youth Board is meeting to handle routine business, including approving February minutes, receiving committee and liaison reports, and hearing the executive director's report. The board will also elect a vice-chair and discuss returning to in-person meetings. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major policy decisions or public hearings listed.

• Election of Vice-Chair
• Discussion of return to in-person meetings
• Executive Director's report includes COVID updates, personnel, programs, and finance
• Jolly Boys Meat Raffle scheduled for May 6
• Committee reports from Finance, Youth Consortium, Family Room, and Amherst Task Force

The Amherst Youth Board met on March 9, 2022 via Zoom but could not take formal action because no quorum was present. Approval of the February 9, 2022 minutes was tabled, and a vote on Krista Krause as Vice Chairperson was also tabled until the next meeting. Committee and staff reports were given, including updates on the Amherst Youth Consortium, Family Room programs, and summer camp registration. The next meeting is scheduled for April 20, 2022 in person at the Harlem Road Community Center.

• Tabled approval of February 9, 2022 minutes — no quorum
• Tabled vote on Krista Krause as Vice Chairperson — no quorum

Historic Preservation Commission

The Amherst Historic Preservation Commission is meeting via Zoom to discuss amendments to the 2022 meeting calendar, set goals for the year, and review repairs to the Main St & Smallwood Dr historic gateway. They will also continue old business, including a proposed revision of the town's Historic Preservation Law and updates on possible landmark designations for several properties. Public comments are invited.

• Amendment to 2022 meeting calendar – November 8
• Main St & Smallwood Dr historic gateway repairs
• Revision of the Historic Preservation Law of the Town of Amherst
• Possible landmark: BNHV Properties, Westwood, Harlem Road Community Center, St. Pauls, St. Benedicts
• Historic entranceway at Main and Lamarck

The Historic Preservation Commission approved its February 8 minutes and voted 6-0 to ask the Amherst Town Board to submit a Certified Local Government grant application to the New York State Historic Preservation Office for FY'22, covering training, educational outreach, and cultural resource survey work, due April 1. It also voted 6-0 to adjourn a proposed amendment to the 2022 meeting calendar that would have moved the November 8 meeting off Election Day; the Commission decided to decide that at next month's meeting. Other items — landmarking research, a Main St & Smallwood Dr gateway repair scope, and a proposed revision of the town's historic preservation law — were discussed with no decisions recorded.

• Approved February 8 HPC minutes (Ayes 6, Noes 0, Absent 1)
• Approved requesting the Amherst Town Board submit a Certified Local Government grant application for FY'22 to the NYS Historic Preservation Office (Ayes 6, Noes 0, Absent 1)
• Adjourned the amendment to the 2022 meeting calendar; decision on moving the November 8 date deferred to next month's meeting (Ayes 6, Noes 0, Absent 1)

Amherst Community Diversity Commission

The Amherst Community Diversity Commission is meeting to discuss routine business including approving February meeting minutes and planning upcoming events. The main items are organizing the Juneteenth Festival, a Punjabi Cultural Show, and potential displays, along with updates from the school board and town liaison.

• 2022 Diversity Calendar discussion
• Juneteenth Festival planning
• Punjabi Cultural Show planning
• Potential displays discussion
• School Board update

The Amherst Community Diversity Commission approved the February meeting minutes and the 2022 Diversity Commission Calendar, both unanimously. Members discussed recruitment for the commission, planning for Juneteenth 2022, a Punjabi cultural show, and a holiday display at the Amherst Library, but took no formal action on those items. The meeting adjourned unanimously.

• Approved February meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Calendar 2022 (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Recreation Commission

The Amherst Recreation Commission is meeting to discuss new business, including a golf course capital plan and a mobile stage rental fee. The agenda also includes liaison reports from various community organizations and facility updates.

• Golf Course Capital Plan presentation by Dick Duquin
• Mobile Stage Rental Fee discussion
• Liaison reports from Daemen College, AYB, Football, Soccer, Golf, Skatepark, Parks & Playgrounds, Amherst Skating Club, High School Baseball, Little League Baseball, Youth Softball, Adult Softball, Ice Hockey, Town Recreation Facilities, Lacrosse, Individuals with disabilities, and Racquet Sports
• Executive Director/Youth & Recreation & Program Report by Mary-Diana Pouli
• Facilities Report by Eric W. Guzdek

The Amherst Recreation Commission approved a $475 per-use rental fee for the town's mobile stage, which will now go to the Town Board for approval. The Commission also approved the January 2022 minutes and heard a presentation on the Audubon Golf Course capital plan, which will go before the Town Board on March 14, 2022. Meetings will return to in-person at the Northtown Center's Gold Room on the second Tuesday of each month at 5pm.

• Approved $475 per-use rental fee for the town mobile stage (motion passed; forwarded to Town Board for approval)
• Approved January 2022 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Announced Recreation Commission meetings will be held in person going forward at the Northtown Center Gold Room, second Tuesday monthly at 5pm

Amherst Committee on Disabilities

The committee will discuss ongoing accessibility projects including multimedia and sensory awareness brochures. Members will also address pedestrian safety signals and committee involvement in the Willow Ridge/Parkview planning project.

• Bike path signage for emergency phones
• Multimedia accessibility project
• Sensory awareness brochure
• APS signal volume at Sheridan, Alberta, NFB, and Eggert
• Willow Ridge/Parkview planning project involvement

The Amherst Committee on Disabilities met on March 7, 2022, but due to attendance, no motions were passed. The committee discussed bike path signage, a multimedia accessibility infographic, a sensory awareness brochure, a fire alarm issue, and the Willow Ridge/Parkview planning project. It also planned a guest presentation on housing and noted an accessibility concern at Shea's. The meeting adjourned by consensus at 20:02.

• No motions passed due to attendance
• February minutes not approved; Erica to correct typos for approval at next meeting
• Guest Laurie Stillwell invited without a vote for next month
• Fire alarm issue future meeting tabled for now
• Next meeting scheduled for April 4th

Traffic-Safety Board

The Amherst Traffic-Safety Board will meet via Zoom to discuss traffic studies and parking restriction requests. New business includes a traffic study presentation for Brompton Road, a request for parking restrictions on Fair Woods Drive, and a request for parking restrictions around the cul-de-sac bulb on Tudor Court. Old business items include crosswalk improvements, traffic study reports, and bike lane considerations, with some items held until weather improves.

• Brompton Road traffic study presentation
• Fair Woods Drive parking restriction request
• Tudor Court cul-de-sac parking restriction request
• Paradise Road/Whisperwood crosswalk RRFB request
• Park Club Lane traffic study report

The Traffic Safety Board approved two items: No Parking restrictions on Fair Woods Drive near Heim Road and the Fair Woods island, and a request to the Town Board to fund and install a Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon at Paradise Road/Whisperwood. It held a Tudor Court parking restriction because notices were not sent, and held the Brompton Road traffic-calming study pending an updated DiDonato report. Several other old-business items were held for weather, neighborhood input, or a final study.

• Approved No Parking restrictions on Fair Woods Drive near Heim Road and the island section (8-0)
• Approved asking the Town Board to find funding and install a Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon at Paradise Road/Whisperwood (8-0)
• Held Tudor Court cul-de-sac bulb parking restriction until notifications are sent to adjacent property owners
• Held Brompton Road traffic-calming study awaiting an updated report from DiDonato Associates
• Held Longmeadow Road bike lane until April 2022, awaiting neighborhood response on eliminating on-street parking
• Held Kings Highway/Berryman crossing guard review until weather improves
• Held Rockingham Counts until weather improves
• Held Park Club Lane traffic study report awaiting a copy of the final study

Town Board

The Town Board will hold public hearings on rezoning for North Forest Road and zoning ordinance amendments. The meeting also includes several bond resolutions for infrastructure and police vehicle purchases.

• Public hearing for 2160 & 2170 North Forest Road rezoning
• $2M bond resolution for Town Road Pavement Improvements
• $1.3M bond resolution for Recreation Complexes Concessions/Restrooms Improvements
• $525,000 bond resolution for Mathewson/McCarthy Ballfield Lighting Improvements
• $460,000 bond resolution for Recreation Facilities Improvements Phase II

The Amherst Town Board approved a series of bond resolutions totaling about $4.54 million for town road paving, recreation facility and ballfield improvements, and police vehicles. It also adopted a local law rezoning 1501-1551 Niagara Falls Boulevard from CTR-5 to DC-3, and closed two public hearings, setting a March 14 decision date for the 2160 & 2170 North Forest Road rezoning. Most items passed unanimously; the Turf Tec lawn contract passed 4-1 with Bucki opposed.

• Adopted local law rezoning 1501-1551 Niagara Falls Boulevard from CTR-5 to DC-3 (5-0)
• Approved $2,000,000 bond for town-wide road pavement improvements (5-0)
• Approved $1,300,000 bond for recreation complexes concessions/restrooms (5-0)
• Approved $525,000 bond for Mathewson/McCarthy ballfield lighting (5-0)
• Approved $460,000 bond for Recreation Facilities Improvements Phase II (5-0)
• Approved $255,000 bond for police department vehicles (5-0)
• Closed public hearing on 2160 & 2170 North Forest Road rezoning; decision set for March 14 (5-0)
• Approved Turf Tec of WNY lawn treatment contract for police department (4-1, Bucki nay)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session to discuss proposed changes to Chapter 4 of the Town Code, which would add more specific duties and responsibilities for the Law and Finance Departments. The board will also review agenda items for its upcoming meeting and hold an executive session on term limits for town committees.

• Presentation on changes to Chapter 4 of Town Code (Administration of Government) regarding Law and Finance Department duties
• Executive session on term limits for Town Committees

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold hearings on several requests for area variances and a temporary use permit. These requests involve setbacks for fences, utility structures, landscaping, and vehicle use areas, as well as a seasonal permit for selling storage buildings.

• 113 Carriage Circle: Area variance for a 6-foot high fence setback
• 1265 Niagara Falls Boulevard: Temporary use permit renewal for seasonal sale of accessory storage buildings
• 41 Georgian Lane: Area variance for vehicle use area setback
• 770-790 Maple Road: Area variance for vehicle use area setback
• 621 Getzville Road: Area variance for landscaping adjacent to buildings

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals approved area variances for 113 Carriage Circle, 41 Georgian Lane, 770-790 Maple Road, 621 Getzville Road, and 6842 & 6846 Main Street, and renewed a temporary use permit for 1265 Niagara Falls Boulevard. A variance request for 3800 Sheridan Drive was adjourned to March 22, 2022 at the applicant's request. The board also re-affirmed its prior decision granting a lot-width variance at 200 Paradise Road, with two members abstaining.

• Approved area variance for 6-foot fence at 113 Carriage Circle (unanimous)
• Approved 2-year temporary use permit for Sturdi-Built Sheds at 1265 Niagara Falls Boulevard (4-0, Shubert recused)
• Approved area variance for emergency access drive at 41 Georgian Lane (unanimous)
• Approved area variance for emergency access drive at 770-790 Maple Road (unanimous)
• Approved area variance for landscaping at 621 Getzville Road (unanimous)
• Adjourned area variance request for 3800 Sheridan Drive to 3/22/2022 (unanimous)
• Approved area variance for utility structure setback at 6842 & 6846 Main Street (4-0, Philips recused)
• Re-affirmed decision granting lot-width variance at 200 Paradise Road (3-0, Nichols and Bray abstained)

Planning Board

The Planning Board reviewed several site plan proposals, including a large office complex and a residential townhome development. Most items were adjourned at the request of the petitioners, while a church expansion project was discussed during unfinished business.

• Proposed office building and roadway at 2190 & 2220 Wehrle Drive
• Proposed 36-unit townhome development at 39 & 41 Georgian Lane
• Proposed 13,960 sq. ft. building expansion for The Well Buffalo Church at 995 Dodge Road
• Proposed Sawyer's Landing mixed-use development at 1081 North French Road
• Rezoning requests for 6621 Main Street and 7740 Transit Road

The Amherst Planning Board approved five site plan requests and two rezoning requests, each with a Negative Declaration under SEQRA. The board also adjourned the Sawyer's Landing mixed-use proposal to the March meeting at the petitioner's request. All approvals were unanimous among the six members present, with board member Harbinder Gill absent.

• Adjourned Sawyer's Landing mixed-use development at 1081 North French Road to March meeting (6-0, Gill absent)
• Approved 36-unit townhome development at 41 Georgian Lane (6-0, Gill absent)
• Approved office building and roadway at 2190 & 2220 Wehrle Drive (6-0, Gill absent)
• Approved The Preserve at Muir Woods Phase IV, 8-lot subdivision at 520 Campbell Boulevard (6-0, Gill absent)
• Approved mixed-use project at 6842 & 6846 Main Street (6-0, Gill absent)
• Approved 18-lot subdivision sketch plan at 166 Klein Road (6-0, Gill absent)
• Approved rezoning of 0.83 acres from R-3 and GB to OB at 6621 Main Street and 20 Oakwood Drive (6-0, Gill absent)
• Approved rezoning of 1.5 acres from GB to DC-5 at 7740 Transit Road (6-0, Gill absent)

Amherst Committee on Disabilities

The Amherst Committee on Disabilities is meeting to discuss accessibility issues, including bike path signage, multimedia accessibility, and sidewalk clearing in winter. They will also review goals for 2022 and address specific concerns like fire alarm fines for a group home and APS signals at intersections.

• Bike path signage for emergency phones
• Multimedia accessibility project
• Sidewalk clearing in winter months
• APS signals at Sheridan and Alberta, and NFB and Eggert
• Fire alarm fines for Amherst group home for children with developmental disabilities

The Committee on Disabilities approved a new meeting schedule for the spring and updated the statistic used in their multimedia accessibility infographic. Members also discussed the development of a sensory awareness brochure and reviewed town procedures regarding fire alarm fines at group homes and sidewalk snow removal enforcement.

• Approved new meeting dates for March 7, April 4, and May 2
• Approved January 2022 minutes
• Approved changing infographic statistic to reflect 1 in 4 people with disabilities

Youth Board

The board will hear committee reports regarding finance, the Youth Consortium, and the Family Room. The meeting includes updates on COVID-19, community services, and upcoming meetings for Dana Heights Playground and the Northwest Amherst Community Center.

• Nomination of Vice-Chair
• Finance Committee report
• Youth Consortium report
• Family Room report
• Healthy Youth Task Force report

The Amherst Youth Board approved the minutes of its January 12, 2022 meeting and then received reports; no new business or old business was taken up. The board heard updates on COVID mask rules, youth programs, a planned Northpointe Center lease, and playground projects. The meeting ended with approval to adjourn.

• Approved January 12, 2022 meeting minutes (McClary/Carroll)
• Approved motion to end the meeting (Carroll/Yonaty)

Senior Services Advisory Board

The Amherst Senior Services Advisory Board is meeting via Zoom. The agenda is largely procedural: approving prior meeting minutes and receiving reports from the Senior Services director, the Youth & Recreation executive director, and the councilmember liaison, followed by member updates. No votes on policy, funding, or new programs are listed.

• Approval of minutes from December 8, 2021 meeting
• Report from Melissa Abel, Director, Amherst Senior Services
• Report from Mary-Diana Pouli, Executive Director, Youth & Recreation Department
• Report from Deborah Bruch-Bucki, Councilmember and liaison

The Senior Services Advisory Board received updates on center activities, staffing changes, and upcoming community programs. The board reviewed reports from department directors and council liaisons regarding operations, grant funding, and committee reorganizations. No major regulatory or legislative decisions were voted on during the meeting.

• Approved December 8, 2022 minutes

Amherst Community Diversity Commission

The Amherst Community Diversity Commission will hold a meeting via Zoom to conduct regular business. The agenda includes reviewing January 2022 minutes, receiving a Town Liaison report, and addressing old and new business.

• Review of January 2022 Meeting Minutes
• Town Liaison Report

The Commission approved the January meeting minutes and discussed the 2021 Annual Report presented to the Town Board. Members proposed individual project assignments for 2022, including a Sikh Heritage show and holiday displays. Commission Chair Dr. Khalid Qazi announced his resignation effective after the March 2022 meeting.

• Approved January meeting minutes (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Amherst Historic Preservation Commission will meet via Zoom to discuss several possible landmark designations, a revision of the town's historic preservation law, and repairs to the Main St & Smallwood Dr gateway. The agenda includes updates on research for BNHV Properties, Westwood, Harlem Road Community Center, and St. Paul's/St. Benedict's, as well as setting commission goals for 2022.

• Discussion of possible landmarking for BNHV Properties, Westwood, Harlem Road Community Center, and St. Paul's/St. Benedict's
• Proposal for revision of the Historic Preservation Law of the Town of Amherst
• Main St & Smallwood Dr historic gateway repairs
• PBN Survey Award plaque update
• Commission goals for 2022

The Historic Preservation Commission approved its prior minutes and voted 5-0 to recommend Jenn Kensy to the Town Board for the vacant member seat. On repairs to the Main St & Smallwood Dr historic gateway, a $9,160 quote from Morris Masonry was discussed, but the Finance Department said more than one bid was needed and prevailing wage would apply; no contract was awarded. Several landmarking items (BNHV properties, Westwood, Harlem Road Community Center, St. Pauls/St. Benedicts) had no report, and the historic preservation law revision remains a work in progress.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (4-0, 2 absent)
• Recommended Jenn Kensy to Town Board for vacant commission seat (5-0, 1 absent)
• No action on Main St & Smallwood Dr gateway repairs; $9,160 Morris Masonry quote discussed, more bids required
• No report on possible landmarking of BNHV properties, Westwood, Harlem Road Community Center, or St. Pauls/St. Benedicts
• Historic preservation law revision remains a work in progress; no vote taken

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board will hold public hearings on a rezoning at 1501-1551 Niagara Falls Boulevard and a $26.5 million bond for streetlight acquisition and upgrades. The board will also consider adopting a zoning map amendment for 1789 Dodge Road, numerous appointments to boards and committees, and a long list of resolutions including contracts, settlements, and budget items.

• Public hearing on rezoning at 1501-1551 Niagara Falls Boulevard (Resolution 2022-120)
• Public hearing on $26.5M streetlight acquisition and upgrades bond (Resolution 2022-121)
• Adoption of local law to amend zoning map for 1789 Dodge Road (Resolution 2022-122)
• Lease of farmland at 1040 Tonawanda Creek Road (Resolution 2022-131)
• Multiple Article 7 settlements, including 4400 Maple Road and Getzville Plaza

The Amherst Town Board approved a $26,500,000 bond resolution for streetlight acquisitions and LED upgrades after holding a public hearing. The board also authorized purchase agreements and utility pole license agreements with National Grid, scheduled a March 14 public hearing for a sewer maintenance building roof restoration bond, and withdrew a zoning amendment for 1789 Dodge Road. Additionally, the board approved various property tax settlements, budget amendments, and personnel appointments.

• Closed public hearing and set decision date for 1501-1551 Niagara Falls Boulevard Rezoning for February 28 (5-0)
• Adopted $26,500,000 bond resolution for streetlight acquisitions and upgrades after public hearing (5-0)
• Withdrawn: Resolution for Local Law to Amend the Zoning Map at 1789 Dodge Road
• Authorized Supervisor to execute agreement for purchase and sale of streetlights with National Grid (CRS# 3147) (5-0)
• Authorized Supervisor to execute license agreement for utility pole attachments with National Grid (CRS# 3148) (5-0)
• Scheduled a public hearing for March 14, 2022, for a $175,000 bond resolution for Sewer Maintenance Building Roof Restoration (5-0)
• Renewed Basic Cancer Coverage for volunteer firefighters with The Hartford Life and Accident Insurance Company for $37,111.75 (5-0)
• Approved various Article 7 real property tax assessment settlements and consent orders

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session to hear annual reports from the Committee on Disabilities and the Community Diversity Commission. The board will also discuss agenda items for an upcoming meeting and hold an executive session on a land transaction involving a cell tower and a contract for land acquisition.

• Presentation of Amherst Committee on Disabilities Annual Report
• Presentation of Amherst Community Diversity Commission Annual Report
• Executive session on land transaction with cell tower
• Executive session on contract for acquisition of land

Traffic-Safety Board

The Amherst Traffic-Safety Board is meeting via Zoom to discuss traffic safety items, including a presentation on Park Club Lane, a request for a flashing beacon at a crosswalk, and input on townwide bicycle treatments. They will also revisit old business such as parking restrictions, bike lanes, and signage updates. The meeting is open to the public.

• Park Club Lane – Traffic Safety Study Presentation
• Paradise Road at Whisperwood Drive – Request for Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon
• Townwide Bicycle Treatments – ATSB input on wish list locations
• Plymouth Place – Parking Restriction Change
• 1501-1551 Niagara Falls Boulevard – Proposed Retail Redevelopment

The Board approved adjustments to parking restrictions on Plymouth Place following the withdrawal of an objection from the Refuse Division. Members also reviewed a traffic safety study for Park Club Lane, requesting that the engineering firm revise the report based on board and resident feedback. Several other items, including bike lane proposals and crossing safety requests, were tabled for further review or data collection.

• Approved January 5, 2021 meeting minutes (10-0)
• Approved parking restriction changes on Plymouth Place (10-0)
• Directed DiDonato Associates to revise Park Club Lane traffic study
• Tabled Paradise Road crosswalk beacon request for further review
• Tabled town-wide bicycle treatment discussion until March
• Recommended Town Board resubmit RAISE grant for Maple Road
• Tabled Longmeadow Road bike lane discussion for resident feedback
• Closed Eggert Road curve signage item

Design Advisory Board

The Amherst Design Advisory Board will review two design applications: a proposed retail plaza redevelopment at 1501-1551 Niagara Falls Boulevard and a mixed-use project at 6842 & 6846 Main Street. The board will also discuss a proposed local law amending Chapter 5 of the Town Code and changes to its application and instructions. The meeting is held via Zoom with public participation.

• Design review for retail plaza redevelopment at 1501-1551 Niagara Falls Boulevard (SP-1985-42_J)
• Design review for mixed-use project at 6842 & 6846 Main Street (SP-2021-27)
• Proposed local law to amend Chapter 5 of Amherst Town Code
• Proposed changes to Design Advisory Board application and instructions

The Board approved sending two design review applications to the Planning Board with specific recommendations. Additionally, the Board approved changes to a local law amending Chapter 5 of the Amherst Town Code.

• Recommended retail plaza redevelopment at 1501-1551 Niagara Falls Boulevard to Planning Board with requests to reduce EFIS materials and add streetscape improvements (5-0)
• Recommended mixed-use project at 6842 & 6846 Main Street to Planning Board with a request to extend the south sidewalk to the property line (5-0)
• Approved proposed changes to local law amending Chapter 5 of the Amherst Town Code (5-0)
• Approved minutes from August 26, 2021 (5-0)

Open Government Advisory Board

The Open Government Advisory Board is meeting to approve prior minutes, elect a chair, vice chair, and secretary, and discuss focus areas for the year. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific policy items listed.

• Election of Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary
• Approval of minutes from last meeting
• Discussion of issues and focus areas for 2022

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on six area variance requests, including a re-hearing for a lot width variance at 200 Paradise Road, and other requests for variances related to street frontage, landscaping, setbacks, and wall material. The board will also discuss virtual public meetings and approve minutes from the previous meeting.

• 200 Paradise Road - area variance for lot width (20 ft vs. required 80 ft), re-heard per court order
• 6842 and 6846 Main Street - variance for half core, local street, and incremental core frontage requirements
• 2601 Millersport Hwy - variance for landscaping (0 ft vs. required 3 ft along building walls)
• 1087 Smith Road - variance for front building setback (36 ft vs. required 50 ft)
• 995 Dodge Road - variance for wall material (corrugated metal paneling)

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals approved six area variances at its January 25, 2022 meeting, most by unanimous vote. The 200 Paradise Road lot-width variance was granted 3-1, with Ann M. Nichols voting no, after a rehearing ordered by a September 27, 2021 consent judgment. The board also approved a resolution to continue holding its meetings remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Approved 200 Paradise Road lot-width variance, 20 ft vs. 80 ft required (3-1, Nichols nay)
• Approved 6842/6846 Main Street variances for local street, half core street, and incremental core frontage (3-0, Philips recused)
• Approved SEQR determination for 6842/6846 Main Street (3-0, Philips recused)
• Approved 2601 Millersport Hwy landscaping variance, 0 ft vs. 3 ft required (unanimous)
• Approved 1087 Smith Road front setback variance, 36 ft vs. 50 ft required (unanimous)
• Approved 47 Tristan Lane building setback variance, 36 ft vs. 42.5 ft required (unanimous)
• Approved 995 Dodge Road wall material variance with condition of Planning Board approval (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to hold ZBA meetings remotely during COVID-19 (unanimous)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is meeting to consider several resolutions, including two bond resolutions totaling $31 million for streetlight acquisition and LED conversion, as well as multiple rezoning and comprehensive plan amendments. The board will also hold public hearings on the FY 2022 Community Development Action Plan, fire protection district contracts, and a local law to establish a Design Advisory Board. Numerous appointments to boards and committees are also on the agenda.

• Bond resolution for streetlight acquisition and upgrades ($26.5M)
• Bond resolution for streetlight acquisition and upgrades ($4.5M)
• Rezoning of 1789 Dodge Road
• Rezoning of 3325 and 3275 Millersport Highway
• Amendment to Bicentennial Comprehensive Plan for 4252-4258 Ridge Lea Road

The Amherst Town Board approved a $26.5 million bond for the Street Lighting District and a $4.5 million bond for General Street Lighting to purchase streetlights from National Grid and NYSEG and convert them to LED. The board also adopted a local law amending the comprehensive plan to allow industrial/office use at 4252-4258 Ridge Lea Road (4-1, Bucki nay) and a zoning change at 10060-10090 Transit Road (4-1, Bucki nay). A proposed local law to establish a Design Advisory Board was withdrawn, and a rezoning decision for 1789 Dodge Road was postponed to February 7.

• Approved $26.5M bond for Street Lighting District acquisition and LED conversion (5-0)
• Approved $4.5M bond for General Street Lighting acquisition and LED conversion (5-0)
• Approved amendment to Bicentennial Comprehensive Plan for industrial/office use at 4252-4258 Ridge Lea Road (4-1, Bucki nay)
• Approved rezoning of 10060-10090 Transit Road to R-3, MFR-5, and CTR-2.5 (4-1, Bucki nay)
• Withdrew local law establishing a Design Advisory Board (5-0)
• Approved $232,000 bond for Police Maintenance Garage and Town Court roof restoration (5-0)
• Approved 2022 Fire Protection District contracts (5-0)
• Set February 7 decision date for 1789 Dodge Road rezoning and 3325 Millersport Highway rezoning

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session to discuss the purchase of the streetlight asset and its conversion to LED, presented by the New York Power Authority. The board will also review agenda items for the upcoming Town Board meeting. This is a discussion session, not a final decision-making meeting.

• Purchase of the streetlight asset and conversion to LED (NY Power Authority)

Planning Board

The Amherst Planning Board met via Zoom on January 13, 2022, to discuss public hearings on site plans, subdivisions, rezonings, and miscellaneous items including a proposed local law amendment. The agenda covers project proposals across various town locations, such as North French Road, Schoelles Road, Wehrle Drive, Dodge Road, Campbell Boulevard, Klein Road, Maple Road, and Ridge Lea Road.

• Sawyer's Landing Mixed Use Development at 1081 North French Road (SP-2021-05)
• Proposed Solar Farm at 595 Schoelles Road (SP-2020-14A)
• Office Building and Roadway at 2190 & 2220 Wehrle Drive (SP-2021-23)
• The Well Buffalo Church Building Expansion at 995 Dodge Road (SP-1988-21B)
• The Preserve at Muir Woods Phase IV at 520 Campbell Boulevard (SP-2021-24)

Youth Board

The Amherst Youth Board is meeting to handle routine business, including approving the December 2021 minutes, receiving committee and liaison reports, and setting the 2022 meeting schedule. The board will also nominate a vice-chair and hear an executive director's report on COVID-19 updates, program updates, and year-end revenue.

• Approval of 2022 meeting schedule (dates listed)
• Nomination of Vice-Chair
• Executive Director's Report: COVID-19 updates, program updates, year-end revenue
• Welcome to new liaison Councilmember Shawn Lavin
• Committee reports from Finance, Youth Consortium, Family Room, and Amherst Task Force for Health Community*Healthy Youth

The Amherst Youth Board approved its 2022 meeting schedule and approved the minutes of its December 8, 2021 meeting. The rest of the meeting was reports and discussion: COVID-19 program cancellations, a cancelled Winter Wonderland event, a planned Spring Stroll on April 23, and updates on the Amherst Youth Consortium and other programs. No other decisions were recorded.

• Approved December 8, 2021 meeting minutes (moved by Krista Krause, seconded by Dean Carroll)
• Approved 2022 meeting schedule: February 9, March 9, April 20, May 11, July 13 (tentative), September 14, October 12, November 19, December 14; no meeting in August (moved by Susan McClary, seconded by Krista Krause)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Amherst Historic Preservation Commission is holding a virtual meeting to discuss 2022 membership, leadership, and various preservation items including Main Street and Smallwood Drive historic gateway repairs, grant updates, and proposed revisions to the town's historic preservation law.

• Main St & Smallwood Dr Historic Gateway Repairs
• Proposal for Revision of the Historic Preservation Law of the Town of Amherst
• BNHV Properties - Update on research for possible landmarking
• Westwood - Possible landmark
• NYSOPRHP Grant Update

The Commission reappointed its chair and vice chair and approved the reappointment of one member and one resource person. The board also voted to extend the use of virtual meetings.

• Approved December 2021 minutes (4-0-1)
• Reappointed Norm Hirschey to the Committee (4-0-1)
• Appointed Joseph Buscaglia as a resource person (5-0)
• Reappointed Ms. Palmer as chairperson for two years (4-0-1)
• Reappointed Ms. Waterman-Kulpa as vice chair (4-0-1)
• Approved extension of virtual meetings (4-1)

Recreation Commission

The Amherst Recreation Commission is holding a meeting via Zoom to discuss new business items, including the 2022 meeting calendar, 2022 golf fees, and an ice rink CIP project. The agenda also includes welcoming liaisons Shawn Lavin and Jacqui Berger, alongside standard administrative reports from staff and liaisons.

• 2022 Golf Fees
• Ice Rink CIP Project
• 2022 Meeting Calendar
• 2022 Liaison assignments

The Recreation Commission approved the minutes from December 2021 and approved the 2022 golf season fees, which were proposed by Indigo and are similar to 2021 with slight increases. The Commission agreed to keep meeting on the second Tuesday of each month in 2022 and set its liaison assignments for sports and facilities. It also heard that the Feature Rink needs a new plant and flooring, and that the Town Board will be asked to amend the 2022-2023 CIP budget to cover the repairs.

• Approved December 2021 minutes (motion passed)
• Approved 2022 golf season fees proposed by Indigo (motion passed)
• Agreed to meet every second Tuesday of the month in 2022
• Agreed to 2022 liaison assignments for golf, sports leagues, parks and facilities
• Adjourned the meeting (motion passed)

Amherst Committee on Disabilities

The Amherst Committee on Disabilities is holding a meeting on January 10, 2022, to approve previous minutes and discuss internal organization, including rules of order, an annual report, and volunteer nominations for Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary. Old business includes updates on bike path emergency phones and a planned multi-media event on deafness and hard of hearing. New business focuses on reviewing the committee's goals and objectives for 2022.

• Discussion on Rules of Order
• Update on emergency phones on bike path led by David W.
• Discussion on multi-media event on deafness and hard of hearing led by David W. and Erica
• Discussion on annual report
• Review of Goals and Objectives for 2022 and nominations for Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary

The Amherst Committee on Disabilities approved its November 2021 minutes and its annual report, which will be forwarded to the Town Clerk. The committee elected Erica Rodman as chair, David Wantuck as vice chair, and Erica Rodman as secretary, all by unanimous votes. It also approved its rules of order. Members discussed 2022 goals including police training on deaf and hard-of-hearing communication, a multimedia accessibility outreach project, and a brochure on sensory issues. On committee composition, the town attorney said members whose terms ended in 2021 can stay on as holdovers while the board reviews the issues.

• Approved November 2021 minutes as read (David first, Rachel second)
• Approved rules of order, no further discussion requested
• Approved annual report; forwarded to Town Clerk, Tom to schedule presentation to the Board
• Elected Erica Rodman as chair (all in favor)
• Elected David Wantuck as vice chair (all in favor)
• Erica Rodman volunteered as secretary (all in favor)

Traffic-Safety Board

The Traffic Safety Board will meet via Zoom to discuss new business and ongoing safety concerns. Items include a request for an all-way stop sign at S. Rockingham Way, Penny Lane, and Lockhart Circle, as well as UB wayfinding signage requests.

• Request for all-way stop sign at S. Rockingham Way / Penny Lane / Lockhart Circle
• UB North Campus Wayfinding Signage request at Main Street and Bailey Ave
• UB North Campus Wayfinding Signage request at Millersport Ramp and Flint Road/Maple Entrance
• Erie County speed limit review for N. Forest Road (CR294)
• Safety concerns regarding Dodge Elementary School Zone and Amherst Middle School

The Board approved a resolution to lower the speed limit on North Forest Road from 45 mph to 35 mph, pending Town Board action. They also approved the installation of school zone signage and a 25 mph speed limit near Dodge Elementary. Additionally, the Board elected Greg Dionne as Vice Chairperson and Eric Fraas as Chairperson.

• Approved 35 mph speed limit resolution for North Forest Rd. (8-0)
• Approved 25 mph school zone for Dodge Elementary (9-0)
• Elected Eric Fraas as Chairperson (9-0)
• Elected Greg Dionne as Vice Chairperson (9-0)
• Approved December 1, 2021 meeting minutes (8-0)
• Approved 2022 meeting schedule (8-0)
• Approved motion to transfer meeting control for elections (9-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding its annual organizational meeting to set the town's operating framework for 2022. The board will vote on a series of resolutions covering appointments, salaries, meeting dates, and administrative policies. This is largely procedural, with no major policy decisions or public hearings on the agenda.

• Resolution 2022-20 to 2022-22: Set salaries for town employees, exempt employees, and department heads for 2022
• Resolution 2022-42: Automatic granting of senior and disability real property tax exemptions
• Resolution 2022-44: Lasertron game room license application
• Resolution 2022-51: Water Information Management Solution software and services contract (CRS 3108)
• Resolution 2022-52: WPCF Sludge Storage Building change order No. 4 (CRS 3107)

At its January 3, 2022 organizational meeting, the Amherst Town Board approved roughly 70 resolutions, most by unanimous 5-0 votes, covering annual appointments, salaries, meeting schedules, and routine policies. The board adopted a procurement and contract management policy, extended the suspension of Open Meetings Law for remote meetings, and directed the assessor to automatically renew senior and disability tax exemptions under a state executive order. One appointment drew the only split vote: a Paralegal in the Town Attorney's office was approved 4-1, with Deputy Supervisor Berger voting no. A proposed Zoning Board of Appeals appointment for Carrie Kahn was withdrawn.

• Adopted 2022 reorganization appointments (Town Attorney, Comptroller, Engineer, and others), most unanimously 5-0
• Approved Paralegal appointment for Renee Sliwa 4-1 (Berger nay)
• Withdrew ZBA appointment of Carrie Kahn
• Adopted Procurement Policy and Contract Management Policy (5-0)
• Extended suspension of Open Meetings Law for remote meetings (5-0)
• Directed assessor to auto-renew senior/disability tax exemptions under Executive Order 11.1 (5-0)
• Approved 2022 salaries for town, civil service, exempt, and department head employees (5-0)
• Referred resident letter on Westwood and a summons/complaint to the Town Attorney (5-0)