Amherst public meetings in 2023

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on 12 area variance requests, covering setbacks, signage, building heights, and other zoning code deviations. Several items were previously adjourned and are being reconsidered. The board will also approve minutes from the November 14 meeting.

• 16 Nicole Court: standby generator 3.75 ft from south property line (requires 5 ft)
• 3030 Niagara Falls Boulevard: total signage 389.9 sq ft vs. 247.4 sq ft allowed
• 3100 Niagara Falls Boulevard: signage 1351.77 sq ft vs. 1342.77 sq ft limit set in 2021
• 5226 & 5228 Main Street: proposed building 54 ft tall vs. 45 ft max, plus other deviations
• 6812, 6814 & 6832 Main Street: building 69.4 ft from Main Street centerline vs. 115 ft required

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals approved several area variances, including conditional approvals for developments at 5195 Main Street, 5226 & 5228 Main Street, and 6812, 6814 & 6832 Main Street. The board also approved variances for residential properties at 16 Nicole Court, 27 Arcadian Drive, and 605 Grover Cleveland Highway. Several other variance requests were adjourned to the next meeting on January 16, 2024.

• Approved area variance for standby generator setback at 16 Nicole Court (unanimous)
• Approved area variance for garage addition setback at 27 Arcadian Drive (unanimous)
• Approved area variance for generator setbacks at 605 Grover Cleveland Highway (unanimous)
• Approved with conditions area variance for building addition at 5195 Main Street (3-0)
• Approved with conditions area variance for building at 5226 & 5228 Main Street (unanimous)
• Approved with conditions area variance for building at 6812, 6814 & 6832 Main Street (unanimous)
• Adjourned signage variance at 3030 Niagara Falls Boulevard to 1/16/2024 (unanimous)
• Adjourned signage variance at 3100 Niagara Falls Boulevard to 1/16/2024 (unanimous)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board will hold public hearings and vote on several zoning-related resolutions, including rezonings at 1350 Eggert Road and amendments for properties at 420 New Road and 4774 & 4780 Sheridan Drive. The board will also consider contracts for firefighters, highway fuel, and townwide hardware, along with fee increases for senior services.

• 1350 Eggert Road rezoning (Resolution 2023-623)
• Zoning map amendments for 420 New Road and 4774 & 4780 Sheridan Drive (Resolutions 2023-956, 2023-957)
• Fire Protection District contracts (Resolution 2023-1006)
• Award of bids for townwide hardware ($2023051) and truck parts ($2023054)
• Senior services fee increases (Resolution 2023-1049, 2023-1050)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session to discuss agenda items, including a presentation on the 2024 insurance policies procurement by Pat Quinn of Lawley Insurance. The meeting is primarily a discussion session, with an executive session scheduled for the insurance topic.

• Presentation on 2024 Insurance Policies Procurement by Pat Quinn (Lawley Insurance)

Design Advisory Board

The Amherst Design Advisory Board will review four design applications, including two apartment buildings, a coffee shop, and a mixed-use building. The board will also discuss its 2024 meeting calendar and approve minutes from October 26, 2023.

• Design review for proposed apartment building at 3945 Rensch Road (Rensch Group, LLC)
• Design review for proposed coffee shop at 5105 Sheridan Drive (Iskalo Development Corp.)
• Preliminary design review for apartment buildings at 1350 Eggert Road (1097 Group, LLC)
• Preliminary design review for mixed-use building at 5226 & 5228 Main Street (Ellicott Development Company)
• Proposed 2024 Design Advisory Board calendar

The Design Advisory Board approved design recommendations for two projects: a 12-unit apartment building at 3945 Rensch Road and a coffee shop at 5105 Sheridan Drive, both with conditions. The board also approved its 2024 meeting calendar and the October 26, 2023 minutes. Two preliminary design reviews were discussed but no formal action was taken.

• Approved design recommendations for 12-unit apartment building at 3945 Rensch Road (5-0)
• Approved design recommendations for coffee shop at 5105 Sheridan Drive (5-0)
• Approved 2024 Design Advisory Board meeting calendar (5-0)
• Approved October 26, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)

Senior Services Advisory Board

The Amherst Senior Services Advisory Board will meet on February 14, 2024, to approve December minutes, introduce a new Town Board liaison, and discuss updates to the mission statement, bylaw clarifications, and financial disclosure forms. Reports will be provided by the Senior Services Director, Youth & Recreation Executive Director, Program Coordinator, and Representatives’ Council President.

• Mission Statement update
• By-Law clarification
• Financial Disclosure Forms review
• Introduction of new Town Board liaison (Melissa)
• Reports from Senior Services Director, Youth & Recreation Director, Program Coordinator, and Representatives’ Council President

The Amherst Senior Services Advisory Board unanimously approved updated by-laws and two membership fee increases, which will go to the Town Board for final approval. The board also approved raising the newsletter mailing fee from $6 to $10 per year. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved updated by-laws (unanimous)
• Approved lifetime membership fee increase for Amherst residents from $30/$50 to $50/$75 (unanimous)
• Approved non-resident membership fee increase to $50 per person, eliminating lifetime rate for non-residents (unanimous)
• Approved 2024 meeting dates (unanimous)
• Approved newsletter mailing fee increase from $6 to $10 per year (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Amherst Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to review a certificate of appropriateness for 400 Mill Street (St. Mary's Motherhouse), set the 2024 meeting schedule, and discuss the 2023 budget. Old business includes commission membership, the annual report, and the Chateau Terrace historic district, including a garage demolition referral. The meeting also covers local landmark plaques, a CLG grant update, and an education plan.

• 400 Mill Street (St. Mary's Motherhouse) - Certificate of Appropriateness
• 22 Chateau Terrace - garage demolition referral
• 2024 meeting schedule and 2023 budget review
• 2024 commission membership and 2023 annual report
• Local landmark plaques and CLG grant update

The Historic Preservation Commission denied a certificate of appropriateness for replacing the original slate roof at St. Mary's Motherhouse (400 Mill Street) with synthetic slate, voting 4-1 with one abstention. The denial was amended to cite the material's unproven lifespan, potential loss of historic tax credits, and cost considerations. The commission also referred the matter of a partially replaced roof without proper permits to the Building Department. Other actions included approving the 2024 meeting schedule, 2023 budget expenditures, a new commission member recommendation, and the 2023 annual report.

• Denied synthetic slate roof replacement at St. Mary's Motherhouse (4-1, 1 abstention)
• Referred partially replaced roof without permits to Building Department (5-1)
• Approved 2024 meeting schedule (6-0)
• Approved 2023 budget for plaques and Preservation Buffalo Niagara membership (6-0)
• Approved 2023 budget for National Alliance of Preservation Commissions membership (6-0)
• Recommended Jeffery Amplement for commission seat (6-0)
• Approved 2023 annual report (6-0)
• Approved November 21, 2023 minutes as amended (5-0, 1 abstention)

Amherst Government Financial Advisory Board

The Amherst Government Financial Advisory Board will discuss merging with the Open Government Advisory Board, set its 2024 meeting schedule, and review a Moody’s credit rating update. They will also review the 2024 Supervisor’s Budget and consider amendments to their own bylaws.

• Possible merger of AGFAB and Open Government Advisory Board
• 2024 AGFAB meeting date determination
• Moody’s updated credit rating review for the Town
• 2024 Supervisor’s Budget review
• Draft AGFAB By-Laws amendment and approval

The Amherst Government Financial Advisory Board voted to approve its draft by-laws and adopted meeting minutes from four prior sessions. Members decided against pursuing a merger with the Open Government Advisory Board due to legal requirements. The board also received an overview of the town's internal Contract Routing System and scheduled its next meeting for January 17, 2024.

• Approved draft AGFAB By-Laws (4-0)
• Approved minutes from July 20, August 16, September 20, and October 18 meetings (4-0)
• Voted not to pursue merger with the Open Government Advisory Board
• Scheduled next meeting for January 17, 2024
• Removed Moody's credit rating review from agenda due to time constraints
• Withdrew 2024 Supervisor's Budget review item

Traffic-Safety Board

The Amherst Traffic-Safety Board meets to discuss speeding complaints on Casey Road and N. Ivyhurst Road, review intersection safety at Wehrle Dr./Garrison Rd., and consider speed-limit changes on Tonawanda Creek Road. The board also reviews seven site-plan applications for new restaurants, retail, and mixed-use buildings.

• Casey Road speeding concerns and radar feedback sign request
• N. Ivyhurst Road speed and volume count review
• 5105 & 5117 Sheridan Drive proposed restaurant
• 1501-1551 Niagara Falls Boulevard proposed restaurant/retail building
• 5226 & 2558 Main Street proposed mixed-use building

The Traffic Safety Board voted 8-1 against installing an all-way stop at Brantwood and Kings Highway, citing data that did not meet installation warrants. The Board approved several commercial site plans with specific safety conditions, including requirements for sidewalks and pedestrian access. Additionally, the Board recommended reallocating funds to install a radar feedback sign on Casey Road and approved the 2024 meeting schedule.

• Recommended reallocating Westfield Road radar sign funds to Casey Road (9-0)
• Received and filed N. Ivyhurst Road speed review (9-0)
• Received and filed 195 Brompton Road hidden driveway sign request
• Approved Miovision intersection recommendations for Wehrle/Garrison (9-0)
• Approved 2024 meeting schedule (9-0)
• Received and filed Tonawanda Creek Road speed limit request (9-0)
• Denied all-way stop at Brantwood/Kings intersection (8-1)
• Recommended installing missing crosswalks at Bailey/Henel (9-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board will hold public hearings regarding several rezoning requests and a local law amendment for historic preservation. The board will also consider adopting a local law concerning accessory dwelling units, review various town contracts, and address personnel appointments for multiple town boards and committees.

• Public hearing on rezoning for 420 New Road, 1350 Eggert Road, and 4774 & 4780 Sheridan Drive
• Adoption of local law amending Chapter 203 regarding accessory dwelling units
• Awarding bids for police vehicles, building department vehicles, and calcium nitrate
• Approval of 2024 fees for ID cards, summer camps, and golf rates
• Settlement of Article 7 matter: 9300 Transit, LLC v. Town of Amherst

The Amherst Town Board held public hearings and advanced the Amherst Central Park Planned Unit Development by accepting the Final Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement (FSGEIS). The board also adopted a local law amending zoning to allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and approved a 3-2 vote to amend a declaration of restrictions for a townhome development at 2350 Sweet Home Road. Several other items were approved, including contracts, appointments, and budget transfers.

• Adopted FSGEIS for Amherst Central Park PUD (5-0)
• Adopted local law to amend Chapter 203 for Accessory Dwelling Units (5-0)
• Amended declaration of restrictions at 2350 Sweet Home Road (3-2)
• Rescinded 2003 geotechnical analysis resolutions (4-1)
• Approved ambulance service contract with Twin City Ambulance (5-0)
• Awarded bid for police vehicles to Delacy Ford (5-0)
• Approved year-end budget transfers and amendments (5-0)
• Adjourned bid award for sludge transportation to Dec 18 (5-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session to discuss the ownership of sanitary sewer and water infrastructure for the residential subdivision at 166 Klein Road, which received preliminary plat approval from the Planning Board. The agenda also includes general Town Board meeting items and an executive session for a pending litigation matter.

• Discussion of 166 Klein Road - ownership of sanitary sewer and water infrastructure for a residential subdivision
• Preliminary plat approval previously granted by the Planning Board
• Executive session on pending litigation

Historic Preservation Commission

The Amherst Historic Preservation Commission will meet on November 21, 2023, to approve minutes from the October 10 meeting and conduct new business, including a certificate of appropriateness for 400 Mill Street (St. Mary’s Motherhouse). The commission will also discuss 2024 membership, the 2023 annual report, and updates on local landmarks and preservation grants.

• 400 Mill Street (St. Mary’s Motherhouse) - Certificate of Appropriateness
• 2024 Commission Membership
• 2023 Annual Report
• Chateau Terrace - Local District Nomination
• 22 Chateau Terrace - Garage Demolition Referral

The Historic Preservation Commission adjourned the Certificate of Appropriateness request for the roof replacement at 400 Mill Street (St. Mary's Motherhouse) so the applicant can submit an executive summary clarifying the request. The Commission also approved the October 10, 2023 minutes (4-0) and discussed 2024 membership, the annual report, and the Chateau Terrace district nomination. The garage demolition referral at 22 Chateau Terrace was also adjourned.

• Approved October 10, 2023 minutes (4-0)
• Adjourned 400 Mill Street Certificate of Appropriateness
• Adjourned 22 Chateau Terrace garage demolition referral (5-0)

Planning Board

The Amherst Planning Board held a public hearing on November 16, 2023, to review four development proposals. The board approved a Planned Unit Development (PUD) for the Amherst Central Park project on 170.55 acres at 772 N. Forest Road and 385 & 391 Maple Road, a request to amend signage restrictions for Boulevard Consumer Square on Niagara Falls Boulevard, and a comprehensive plan amendment to change land use from Commercial-Office to Mixed Residential for a property at 2280 Wehrle Drive. A request to amend the comprehensive plan to Industrial-Office for a property at 2360-2370 Wehrle Drive was adjourned without approval.

• Approved Planned Unit Development (PUD) for Amherst Central Park (170.55 acres at 772 N. Forest Road and 385 & 391 Maple Road)
• Approved removal of signage restrictions for Boulevard Consumer Square (1565-1703 Niagara Falls Boulevard)
• Approved comprehensive plan amendment to Mixed Residential for 2280 Wehrle Drive
• Adjourned without approval comprehensive plan amendment to Industrial-Office for 2360-2370 Wehrle Drive

The Board approved a conceptual development plan for a 170.55-acre town-owned community park. Other actions included approving a signage restriction removal and a comprehensive plan amendment for residential use, while one industrial request was adjourned.

• Approved conceptual PUD plan for Amherst Central Park (7-0)
• Approved removal of signage restrictions for Boulevard Consumer Square (6-0)
• Approved Comprehensive Plan amendment to Mixed Residential at 2280 Wehrle Drive (7-0)
• Adjourned Comprehensive Plan amendment to Industrial Office at 2360-2370 Wehrle Drive (7-0)
• Approved October 19, 2023 meeting minutes (6-1)

Recycling and Waste Committee

The Recycling and Waste Committee is meeting to discuss waste and recycling reports, the status of food scrap composting and secure shed procurement, and the 2023 pumpkin drop-off. They will also review the plastic utensils upon request legislation and a funding request for a committee web page.

• Status on Secure Shed procurement for food scrap drop-off sites
• Report on 2023 pumpkin drop-off
• Status on Plastic Utensils Upon Request legislation
• Status on request for money for committee web page

The committee reviewed waste collection trends and pumpkin drop-off totals. Members discussed potential partnerships with local garden shops for pumpkin collection and the possibility of a political sign drop-off program.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals meets to hear eleven area-variance petitions that ask for relief from setback, height, and coverage rules. No substantive decisions are listed on this agenda; the board will take testimony on each appeal before voting at a future meeting.

• 966 Sweet Home Road – generator and shed setback relief
• 283 Rosedale Blvd. – driveway size variance (510 s.f. vs. 451.5 s.f. max)
• 46 Hallmark Court – single-story addition setback (15′-11″ vs. 30′ required)
• 106 Lebrun Circle – accessory garage height (30 ft vs. 20 ft max)
• 6000-6040 North Bailey Ave. – vehicle-use area lighting and setback relief

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals approved six area variance requests and accepted the previous meeting's minutes. Five additional items, including area variances and an open development area application, were adjourned to the December 19, 2023 meeting.

• Accepted October 17, 2023 minutes (5-0)
• Approved area variance at 966 Sweet Home Road (5-0)
• Approved area variance at 283 Rosedale Blvd. (5-0)
• Approved area variance at 46 Hallmark Court (5-0)
• Approved area variance at 131 Nicole Court (5-0)
• Approved area variance at 39 Costin Road (5-0)
• Approved area variance at 1720, 1740 & 1760 Maple Road (5-0)
• Adjourned five items including 106 Lebrun Circle and 5195 Main Street to December 19, 2023

Amherst Community Diversity Commission

The Amherst Community Diversity Commission is meeting to discuss several ongoing items, including the Central Park Project and the renaming of Audubon Parkway. The agenda also includes reports from school and town board liaisons, planning for 2024, and a new item on a police safety brochure.

• Central Park Project discussion with Ann Dafchik
• Re-visit of renaming Audubon Parkway Project
• School Board Liaison Report
• Planning meetings for 2024
• New business: Police Safety Brochure

The Amherst Community Diversity Commission discussed the Central Park project, offering input on diversity-focused monuments, exhibits, and gathering spaces. They approved the October 10th meeting minutes unanimously and planned 2024 events, including AAPI Heritage Month and a Chinese New Year celebration. The commission also reviewed a police safety brochure and approved display items costing $181.49.

• Approved October 10, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed Central Park diversity project features and funding
• Planned 2024 events including AAPI Heritage Month and Chinese New Year
• Approved display items purchase of $181.49 from town board budget
• Confirmed December event and Audubon library display

Recreation Commission

The Amherst Recreation Commission is meeting to discuss and potentially decide on 2024 golf course fees and the 2024 budget. The agenda includes reports from liaisons and staff on various recreation programs and facilities.

• 2024 Golf Course fees
• 2024 budget discussion
• Liaison reports on Daemen College, AYB, Football, Soccer
• Facilities report by Eric W. Guzdek
• Reports on skatepark, parks, playgrounds, and ice hockey

The Commission approved the proposed fee schedule for the Audubon Golf Course for the 2024 season. Members also heard a presentation regarding a potential pool lease for summer 2024 and received updates on park construction and facility winterization.

• Approved 2024 Audubon Golf Course fees
• Adjourned meeting at 5:43pm

Town Board

The Town Board will hold public hearings regarding Meyer Road parking restrictions, historic preservation, and auxiliary dwelling unit zoning. The meeting also includes discussions on property acquisitions, various settlement agreements, and several board appointments.

• Public hearing on Meyer Road parking restrictions
• Public hearing on Auxiliary Dwelling Units zoning amendment
• JC Penney property acquisition determination
• Appointment of various board and committee members
• Settlement of multiple Article 7 matters

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session to discuss agenda items, including a public hearing on revisions to the Town Code regarding Historic Preservation. The Town Attorney will lead the discussion. No formal decisions are expected at this work session.

• Discussion of revisions to Town Code on Historic Preservation
• Public hearing scheduled for Town Board meeting agenda

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a special meeting to consider three resolutions: a local law to override the state tax levy limit, adoption of the 2024-2029 Capital Improvement Program, and an amendment to enhance financial transparency. These are formal votes on fiscal matters.

• Resolution 2023-843: Local Law to Override the Tax Levy Limit
• Resolution 2023-876: Capital Improvement Program (CIP) 2024-2029
• Resolution 2023-908: Amendment to Enhance Financial Transparency

The Amherst Town Board adopted a local law to override the state-imposed property tax levy limit for the 2024 budget, allowing the town to exceed the 2% cap if necessary. The board also approved the 2024-2029 Capital Improvement Program and adopted an amendment to enhance financial transparency, requiring a four-year financial plan and quarterly budget monitoring reports.

• Adopted local law to override 2024 tax levy limit (4-1, Bucki nay)
• Approved 2024-2029 Capital Improvement Program (4-0, Berger absent)
• Adopted financial transparency amendment requiring four-year plan and quarterly reports (5-0)

Amherst Committee on Disabilities

The Amherst Committee on Disabilities will meet to hear a presentation from Town Architect Anne Dafchik on the Amherst Central Park Project. The committee will also discuss old and new business, including a social media page, an ADU pilot program, meeting recordings, and membership terms.

• Guest speaker: Town Architect Anne Dafchik on Amherst Central Park Project
• Discussion of ADU Pilot Program
• Discussion of meeting recordings/transcripts
• Discussion of membership terms/renewals
• Approval of October minutes

The committee voted to hold the October minutes until the January 2024 meeting pending transcript review, and tabled a materials discussion. Members discussed the Amherst Central Park ice ribbon project with the town architect, including accessibility features, and noted upcoming member term expirations.

• Held October minutes for January 2024 review (all in favor)
• Tabled materials discussion for tabling events until January (all in favor)
• Set next meeting for January 22, 2024 (all in favor)

Traffic-Safety Board

The Amherst Traffic-Safety Board will discuss and potentially act on several traffic safety concerns, including overflow parking from the ISNF Mosque and Sacred Heart School, speed and volume on Sierra Drive and Lynette Lane, and a request to close commercial driveways and convert N. Bailey Avenue to one-way. They will also review old business items and two site plans for a mixed-use project and a self-storage facility.

• Heim Road, Montbleu, Southwedge, Schimwood Area – overflow parking from ISNF Mosque
• Maynard Drive near Main Street – overflow parking from Sacred Heart School
• N. Bailey Avenue between Sheridan Drive and Maple Road – request to close driveways and convert to one-way
• Ayer Road, Klein Road & Knollwood Intersection – request for barrier or traffic control device
• 1720, 1740 & 1760 Maple Road – proposed mixed-use project; 2495 Wehrle Drive – proposed self-storage facility

The Traffic Safety Board approved recommendations to reinstall a guardrail and pursue property acquisition to realign the Ayer Road and Knollwood intersection, citing five crashes in five years. The Board also voted to recommend a roundabout at the Emerson-Bailey-Amsterdam intersection to address traffic from nearby retail stores. Site plans for mixed-use projects on Maple Road and Ridge Lea Road were approved with specific traffic safety conditions.

• Approved 6-0 recommendation to reinstall guardrail at Ayer/Knollwood intersection
• Approved 6-0 referral to Town Board to acquire land for Ayer/Knollwood intersection realignment
• Approved 6-0 recommendation for roundabout at Emerson-Bailey-Amsterdam intersection
• Approved referral of North Bailey one-way option to Boulevard Mall technical committee
• Held Maynard Drive parking item pending sight distance calculations (6-0)
• Held Brantwood/Kings all-way stop request pending school-session traffic counts
• Approved Maple Road mixed-use site plan with pedestrian safety conditions
• Approved Ridge Lea Road retail site plan with roundabout and signage conditions

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a budget meeting with public hearings on the 2024 Town Budget and the 2024-2029 Capital Improvement Program. The board will also consider resolutions to override the tax levy limit, approve various contracts and settlements, and make appointments to town boards and committees. Residents can comment on these items during the public hearings and public expression periods.

• Public hearing on 2024 Town Budget (Resolution 2023-877)
• Public hearing on Capital Improvement Program 2024-2029 (Resolution 2023-876)
• Local law to override tax levy limit (Resolution 2023-843)
• Settlements of Article 7 matters involving J P H Properties and Raasch Family Trust
• Award bids for Z-Bar wheel loader, town-wide undercoating, and demolition of former Plant 1 Lab Building

The Amherst Town Board held public hearings on the 2024 budget and the 2024-2029 Capital Improvement Program, then set a decision date of November 9, 2023 for both. The board also approved a consent agenda with numerous contracts, appointments, and budget transfers, and denied a sidewalk waiver request at 801 Ayer Road.

• Set decision date for 2024-2029 CIP and 2024 budget for Nov. 9 special meeting (5-0)
• Adopted consent agenda including contracts, appointments, and budget transfers (5-0)
• Denied sidewalk waiver request at 801 Ayer Road (5-0)
• Approved emergency streetlight repair contract with LEDES (5-0)
• Approved $190,540 wheel loader purchase from Monroe Tractor (5-0)
• Approved $21,000 demolition contract for former Plant 1 Lab Building (5-0)
• Approved $152,985 carpet purchase and installation (5-0)
• Approved $449,319.50 in 2024 special town charges (5-0)

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.

Design Advisory Board

The Design Advisory Board will meet to conduct a design review for a proposed apartment building. The petitioner for this application is Rensch Group LLC.

• Design review application SP-2023-10 for 3945 Rensch Road

The Design Advisory Board conducted a preliminary design review of a proposal to demolish a single-family home and construct a three-story, 12-unit apartment building at 3945 Rensch Road. The board discussed design elements and provided recommendations, but no formal approval or denial was recorded. The minutes were approved unanimously.

• Preliminary design review of 12-unit apartment building at 3945 Rensch Road conducted
• Board recommended changes to facade, entrance, windows, and materials
• Minutes of September 28, 2023 approved (4-0)

Amherst Conservation Advisory Council

The Amherst Conservation Advisory Council is meeting to discuss environmental review of the Westwood project and several land-use items. They will also consider nominating additional parks for the NYS Birding Trail and review property donations and land clearing issues.

• Review of DSGEIS for Westwood
• Tree Board Tree Survey draft
• 480 Dodge Road
• Open Space Plan and Priority Properties
• 2800 Hopkins Road Land Donation

Planning Board

The Amherst Planning Board meets to discuss public hearings on site plans, rezoning requests, and amendments to town code. All public hearings have been completed, and no new hearings are scheduled for this meeting. The board will also review unfinished business items and approve meeting minutes.

• Mixed-use project SP-2023-06 at 1720, 1740 & 1760 Maple Road by PB Investors LLC
• Rezoning requests Z-2023-07 (4774 & 4780 Sheridan Drive) and Z-2023-08 (420 New Road)
• Comprehensive plan amendment BCPA-2023-02 for 46, 54, 60, 68, 74 & 84 South Linden Street
• Town code amendment ZTA-2023-03 for accessory dwelling unit standards
• Sidewalk waiver SP-2023-03 for North Bailey Avenue by Benderson Development Co. LLC

The Amherst Planning Board approved a mixed-use project at 1720, 1740 & 1760 Maple Road, including two four-story buildings with 107 apartments and 7,000 sq ft of commercial space, plus 11 townhomes. The board also approved a rezoning at 4774 & 4780 Sheridan Drive to allow for 22 attached residential units, and a rezoning at 420 New Road to facilitate a 3-lot split. A request to amend the Comprehensive Plan for properties on South Linden Street was adjourned to the January 18, 2024 meeting.

• Approved mixed-use project at 1720-1760 Maple Road (6-0)
• Approved rezoning of 5.03 acres at 4774 & 4780 Sheridan Drive from R-3 to R-4 (4-2)
• Approved rezoning of 1.09 acres at 420 New Road from SA to R-3 (6-0)
• Adjourned Comprehensive Plan amendment for 46-84 South Linden Street to 1/18/2024 (6-0)
• Recommended approval of Accessory Dwelling Unit text amendment with modification (6-0)
• Approved sidewalk waiver for Meyer Road frontage of Amherst Commons Center (5-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved 2024 Planning Board meetings calendar (6-0)

Recycling and Waste Committee

The Town of Amherst Recycling and Waste Committee is meeting to discuss routine business including minutes, membership, and waste reports. They will also cover food scrap collection and composting efforts, the upcoming pumpkin drop-off event, and the status of legislation on plastic utensils upon request.

• Food scrap collections/composting: scheduling volunteers for Farmers Market and status on secure shed procurement for additional drop-off sites
• 2023 Pumpkin drop-off on 11/4/23 from 10-1, including volunteer coordination and distribution of compost samples
• Status on Plastic Utensils Upon Request legislation
• Status on request for money for committee web page

The Recycling and Waste Committee met and discussed routine updates, including a possible compost giveaway at the pumpkin drop-off and a new composting program for Williamsville middle schools. No formal votes or binding decisions were recorded; items were discussed or proposed for future action.

• Discussed making finished compost available as a giveaway at the November 4 pumpkin drop-off
• Proposed new composting program for Williamsville School District middle schools, pending further planning
• Noted no updates on Plastic Utensils legislation
• Scheduled a tour of the town compost site, date TBD

Amherst Government Financial Advisory Board

The Amherst Government Financial Advisory Board will meet to review and discuss the 2024 Supervisor's Budget and Moody's updated credit rating for the Town. The board will also consider adopting its by-laws and approving minutes from prior meetings, contingent on a quorum.

• Review and possible adoption of AGFAB By-Laws
• Approval of minutes from 7/20, 8/16, and 9/20 meetings
• Review/discuss 2024 Supervisor's Budget
• Review/discuss Moody's updated credit rating for the Town

The Amherst Government Financial Advisory Board met on October 18, 2023, but lacked a quorum, so it tabled discussions on by-laws and approval of minutes from the last three meetings. The board discussed the 2024 Supervisor's Budget, which was the main topic. It also tabled a discussion on the Town's Moody's credit rating due to time. The November meeting was cancelled, and the December meeting was moved to the second week of December, possibly to the Town Council conference room at Town Hall.

• Tabled by-laws discussion (no quorum)
• Tabled approval of minutes from last three meetings (no quorum)
• Tabled discussion on Town's Moody's credit rating (time)
• Cancelled November meeting
• Moved December meeting to second week of December, possibly to Town Council conference room

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold hearings on several area, use, and temporary use variance requests. These items include requests for accessory building expansions, signage changes, and commercial use in residential districts.

• Area variance for 185 Smith Road regarding a 1,200 s.f. accessory garage
• Area variance for 106 Lebrun Circle regarding a 30-foot tall accessory garage
• Area variance for 1340 Millersport Hwy. to add a rooftop story to a hotel
• Temporary Use Permit for 4196 Sherian Drive for a landscaping business
• Use variance for 190 Maple Road for additional off-street medical office parking

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved several area variances for garages, signage, and building heights. A use variance for additional medical office parking was approved with conditions, while three other items were adjourned and one request was withdrawn.

• Approved accessory garage area variance at 185 Smith Road (Unanimous)
• Approved garage addition setback variance at 1 Sable Run (4-0)
• Approved signage area variance at 199-203 Park Club Lane (Unanimous)
• Approved ground floor elevation and parking variances at 1720, 1740 & 1760 Maple Road (Unanimous)
• Approved hotel roof top addition height variance at 1340 Millersport Hwy. (Unanimous)
• Approved building coverage variance for dwelling at 73 Brockton Ridge (Unanimous)
• Approved use variance for medical office parking at 190 Maple Road with conditions (3-2)
• Adjourned variances for 106 Lebrun Circle, 6000-6040 North Bailey Ave., and 4831 Harlem Road

Amherst Committee on Disabilities

The Amherst Committee on Disabilities will hold a Zoom meeting on October 17, 2023, at 6:30 PM. The committee will approve September minutes, discuss social media updates, review emergency preparedness efforts, and address follow-ups from a Town attorney visit. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Review social media page updates
• Discuss Amherst Central Park accessibility with Anne invited to future meeting
• Follow up on Town attorney visit questions/concerns
• Acknowledge participation in Main Street Corridor Plan Project Charter
• Table materials for handouts for next year

The Amherst Committee on Disabilities approved the September minutes with a word change from 'legislature' to 'legislation'. The committee also tabled a discussion on handouts and tabling materials until the November meeting. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting focused on updates and discussions.

• Approved September minutes with correction (all in favor)
• Tabled handouts and tabling materials discussion until November (all in favor)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board will hold public hearings on acquiring Boulevard Mall parcels by eminent domain, the 2024 Community Development Program funding, and a local law to override the state tax levy limit. The board will also take development actions on properties on North French Road and Maple Road, and make appointments to various boards and committees.

• Resolution 2023-841: Acquisition by eminent domain of Boulevard Mall parcels
• Resolution 2023-843: Local law to override tax levy limit
• Resolution 2023-844/802: SEQR determination and comprehensive plan amendment for 1635 & 1639-1641 North French Road
• Resolution 2023-845: Notice of completion for DSGEIS at 772 North Forest Road, 385 & 391 Maple Road
• Resolution 2023-854: Award bid for town-wide shrub planting

The Town Board held public hearings on acquiring the Boulevard Mall parcel (3891 Maple Rd) by eminent domain and on overriding the state tax levy cap for the 2024 budget, but took no final action on either. The board approved a negative SEQR declaration and a Bicentennial Comprehensive Plan amendment for 1635 & 1639-1641 North French Road, changing the land use designation from Single Family Residential to Commercial/Mixed Use. It also accepted the draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement for the proposed Amherst Central Park at the former Westwood Country Club and accepted the amended Planned Unit Development application for that park.

• Approved SEQR negative declaration for 1635 & 1639-1641 North French Road (5-0)
• Amended Bicentennial Comprehensive Plan to Commercial/Mixed Use for 5.1 acres at 1635 & 1639-1641 North French Road (5-0)
• Directed Town Clerk to file Notice of Completion for Amherst Central Park DSGEIS (5-0)
• Accepted amended PUD application for Amherst Central Park (5-0)
• Accepted Strategic Economic Development Plan (5-0)
• Approved $45,000 NYSDCJS grant for police computer equipment (5-0)
• Approved $17,084 NYSDCJS grant for LiveScan fingerprinting system (5-0)
• Approved $3,978.20 contract with Digital Surveillance Solutions for Veterans Park access control (5-0)

Town Board

The Town Board will hold a work session to review the Annual Actuarial Reports for the Local Option Sales Tax Assessment Program (LOSAP) via a presentation by Penflex. The session will also include a review of upcoming Town Board meeting agenda items and an executive session regarding pending litigation.

• Presentation on Annual Actuarial Reports for LOSAP by Penflex
• Executive Session regarding pending litigation

Senior Services Advisory Board

The Amherst Senior Services Advisory Board is meeting to vote on updated by-laws, discuss the mission statement, and consider increasing membership fees. The board will also receive reports from department directors and liaisons. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major policy decisions or public hearings.

• Vote on updated By-Laws
• Discussion of increasing Membership fees
• Discussion of Mission Statement update
• Introduction of 2 new Board members
• 2024 Meeting Dates & Times

The Amherst Senior Services Advisory Board met on October 11, 2023, but did not approve the September minutes or updated by-laws due to lack of quorum. Members discussed a proposed membership fee increase for 2024, agreeing in principle but deferring a vote to December. No formal decisions were made.

• September minutes not approved (no quorum)
• Updated by-laws not approved (no quorum)
• Membership fee increase discussed, vote deferred to December

Glen Park Joint Board

The board identified two priority projects for the 2024 DPW budget and decided against adding more electric outlets at the top of the park. Members discussed hiring a professional landscaper and continuing a NY Forward grant request for permeable brick pathways.

• Accepted September 13, 2023 meeting minutes
• Decided not to pursue adding more electric outlets at the top of the park
• Identified Rotary Circle Garden replanting as a 2024 DPW budget priority
• Identified trimming plant overgrowth by the east creek wall as a 2024 DPW budget priority

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission reviewed a certificate of appropriateness for roof replacement at 400 Mill Street (St. Mary's Motherhouse), where the applicant presented bids for slate, synthetic slate, and Grand Manor shingles. They also discussed commission membership, the annual report, and several items related to Chateau Terrace, including a landmark designation and garage demolition referral that are on hold due to litigation. The meeting included routine approvals and updates, with no action taken on most items.

• 400 Mill Street roof replacement bids: slate, synthetic slate, Grand Manor shingles
• 22 Chateau Terrace landmark designation and garage demolition on hold due to litigation
• Chateau Terrace local district nomination consolidation
• 2024 commission membership and 2023 annual report discussion
• No update on CLG grant submission or Preservation Day

The Historic Preservation Commission tabled a certificate of appropriateness request for a roof replacement at 400 Mill Street (St. Mary's Motherhouse) at the applicant's request. The commission also approved the September 12, 2023 meeting minutes. Several other items were discussed but no final decisions were made.

• Tabled roof replacement certificate of appropriateness for 400 Mill Street (5-0)
• Approved September 12, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)

Amherst Community Diversity Commission

The Amherst Community Diversity Commission is meeting to hear from Police Chief Chamberlain on community safety, review a meeting about renaming Audubon Parkway, and discuss a children's holiday program and display at the Audubon Library. The agenda also includes liaison reports and routine business. The meeting is in-person and must end by 6:30 PM.

• Police Chief Chamberlain speaking on community safety (5:30-6:00 PM)
• Review of meeting with Mr. Kulpa regarding renaming Audubon Parkway
• Children's holiday program and display at Audubon Library
• School Board and Town Board liaison reports

The Amherst Community Diversity Commission met with the Town Police Chief to discuss safety for worship houses and hate crime reporting, and heard a report from the Town Supervisor about shifting focus from the Audubon renaming controversy to planning for Amherst Central Park. The Commission agreed to meet separately with the town architect to contribute diversity-focused ideas for the park, and discussed plans for a youth event and display case at the library. No formal votes were taken on substantive policy matters; the only motions were to approve prior minutes and adjourn, both unanimous.

• Approved September 12, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to hold separate meeting with Town Architect to discuss diversity at Amherst Central Park
• Scheduled youth event for December 28 at Audubon library (2-4 PM)
• Set display case installation for November 20 at library
• Adjourned meeting at 6:40 PM (unanimous)

Traffic-Safety Board

The Amherst Traffic-Safety Board is meeting to discuss and decide on several traffic-related requests, including new access from a development, a centerline marking, and pedestrian crosswalks. It will also review site plans for a proposed apartment building, a restaurant plaza, and a solar project. The board is holding one item for county plans.

• Full access request onto S. Ellicott Creek Road from Essex Woods Development
• Double solid yellow centerline request on Ayer Road between Maple Road and Sheridan Drive
• Pedestrian crosswalks and traffic calming on Getzville Road
• Site plan: 3945 Rensch Road proposed apartment building
• Site plan: 1459 Niagara Falls Blvd. proposed Raymore & Flanigan Plaza restaurant

The Amherst Traffic Safety Board approved a motion 9-0 recommending removal of the emergency-access deed restriction for the Essex Woods Development, allowing full vehicular access onto North Ellicott Creek Road. The board also approved 9-0 a double yellow line on Ayer Road and three motions (each 9-0) for stop sign relocations and a crosswalk on Getzville Road. Five site plans were approved with conditions or as submitted.

• Approved removal of emergency access deed restriction for Essex Woods Development (9-0)
• Approved double yellow center line on Ayer Road between Maple Road and Sheridan Drive (9-0)
• Approved relocation of stop sign on Getzville Road southbound at Woodbury to Greenbrier Road (9-0)
• Approved installation of crosswalk at Greenbrier Road across Getzville Road with ADA ramps (9-0)
• Approved relocation of stop sign at Meadowstream Drive to Woodbury Drive, making all-way stop (9-0)
• Approved major site plan for 3945 Rensch Road apartment building with condition (unanimous)
• Approved minor site plan for Mission BBQ at 1459 Niagara Falls Blvd with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved major site plan for solar energy system at 1050 New Road with condition (unanimous)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board will hold its regular meeting to approve minutes, hear public comments, and vote on multiple resolutions including zoning amendments, solar energy permits, and budget-related items. The board will also consider appointments to various committees and boards.

• Amend Bicentennial Comprehensive Plan for 1635 & 1639-1641 North French Road
• Approve special use permit for Tier III solar energy system at 800 & 850 New Road
• SEQR Determination for 772 North Forest Road, 385 Maple Road & 391 Maple Road
• Approve $2024 elected officials’ salaries and schedule public hearing on 2024 budget exceeding tax cap
• Award bid for Amherst Police and Central Alarm sprinkler system improvements (CRS #4306)

The Amherst Town Board unanimously adopted a positive SEQR declaration for the proposed Amherst Central Park at the former Westwood Country Club, requiring a supplemental environmental impact statement. The board also held a public hearing on a comprehensive plan amendment for 1635 & 1639-1641 North French Road, setting a decision date for October 16, and approved numerous consent agenda items including contracts, appointments, and budget adjustments.

• Adopted positive SEQR declaration for Amherst Central Park PUD, requiring supplemental GEIS (5-0)
• Held public hearing on comprehensive plan amendment for 1635 & 1639-1641 North French Road; decision set for Oct 16 (5-0)
• Adjourned special use permit hearing for Tier III solar at 800 & 850 New Road (5-0)
• Adopted 2024 elected officials' salaries as amended (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing on local law to override tax cap for Oct 16 (5-0)
• Adopted consent agenda including contracts, appointments, and budget amendments (5-0)
• Referred four summons/complaints to Town Attorney (5-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is meeting for a work session. The agenda includes a pledge of allegiance and a listed executive session for a litigation matter. No other substantive items are listed on this agenda.

• Executive session on litigation matter

Design Advisory Board

The Design Advisory Board is holding a public meeting to review a site plan for a mixed-use development at 1720, 1740, and 1760 Maple Road, submitted by PB Investors, LLC. No other business items are listed. The board will also approve minutes from the August 24, 2023 meeting.

• Design review for site plan SP-2023-06 for mixed-use development at 1720, 1740 & 1760 Maple Road
• Petitioner: PB Investors, LLC
• Minutes approval for August 24, 2023 meeting

The Design Advisory Board reviewed the proposed mixed-use development at 1720, 1740, and 1760 Maple Road and voted 5-0 to approve recommendations that the site and building design adequately address the Town's Design Guidelines. The board also issued five specific recommendations for the final site plan, including adding bike racks, public art, and replacing a white vinyl fence with wood. No public comments were made.

• Approved recommendations that design meets Mixed-use Design Guidelines (5-0)
• Recommended final site plan identify furnishings for outdoor amenity spaces
• Recommended final site plan include bicycle rack(s) on east side of mixed-use building
• Recommended final plan indicate locations and nature of public art
• Recommended replacing white vinyl fence with high quality wood fence
• Recommended final site plan include streetscape amenities along proposed local street
• Approved August 24, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)

Planning Board

The Amherst Planning Board will consider a preliminary plat for the 26-lot Ashley Green subdivision. The board will also discuss a proposed apartment and townhouse development at 480 Dodge Road.

• Preliminary plat for 'Ashley Green' 26-lot subdivision at 10060 Transit Road
• SEQR determination for 'Ashley Green' subdivision at 10060 Transit Road
• Proposed apartment/townhouse development at 480 Dodge Road

Recycling and Waste Committee

The committee will discuss food scrap collection scheduling and pumpkin drop-off volunteer needs. Members will also review the status of secure shed procurement and plastic utensil legislation.

• Food scrap collection scheduling for Farmers Market
• 2023 Pumpkin drop-off volunteer planning
• Secure shed procurement for additional drop-off sites
• Status of Plastic Utensils Upon Request legislation
• Request for funds for a committee web page

The committee reviewed waste collection trends and the status of the town's compost pile. Members discussed potential grants for composting infrastructure and a website for educational outreach.

• Requested finished compost be available as a giveaway at the November 4 pumpkin drop-off
• Assigned John H. to research grants for composting infrastructure and an educational website
• Requested a brochure be created to recruit new committee members

Amherst Government Financial Advisory Board

The Amherst Government Financial Advisory Board is meeting to approve minutes, review and amend its by-laws, discuss bond issues with the town's fiscal advisor, and review current year variances from the 2024 budget fund balance worksheet. The agenda is mostly procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Approval of minutes from 7/20 and 8/16 meetings
• Review, amend, and approval of draft of AGFAB By-Laws
• Discussion with Rick Ganci from Capital Markets (Town’s fiscal advisors for bond issues)
• Review of current year variances from the 2024 budget fund balance worksheet

The Amherst Government Financial Advisory Board met on September 20, 2023, with only two board members present. Because of this, the board could not adopt by-laws or approve previous meeting minutes. A fiscal advisor gave an overview of the bonding process and municipal bond market, and the board reviewed budget variances. No substantive decisions were made.

• Unable to adopt by-laws due to lack of quorum
• Unable to approve previous meeting minutes due to lack of by-laws

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals will hold hearings on 12 appeals, including area variances, use variances, and temporary use permits. Several items were previously adjourned from prior meetings. The board will also approve minutes from its August 15, 2023 meeting.

• 6 Belvoir Road: 6-foot fence proposed 0 feet from north property line (10 ft required)
• 324 Mill Street: porch enclosure would put building 26 feet from front line (30 ft required)
• 139 Indian Trail: attached garage would make accessory structures 2,413 sq ft (886.48 sq ft max)
• 3275 & 3325 Millersport Highway: multiple buildings exceed length limits and parking short by 8 spaces
• 190 Maple Road: use variance for additional off-street parking for medical office

The Board approved seven area variances for residential and commercial properties and one temporary use permit for a clothing collection trailer. Four items, including a request for a landscaping business in a residential district, were adjourned to October 17, 2023.

• Approved area variance for 6 foot fence at 6 Belvoir Road (unanimous)
• Approved area variance for porch enclosure at 324 Mill Street (unanimous)
• Approved area variance for generator at 294 Robin Hill Drive (unanimous)
• Approved area variance for attached garage at 139 Indian Trail (unanimous)
• Approved area variance for window well at 391 Lakewood Parkway (unanimous)
• Approved area variance for accessory garage at 4205 Tonawanda Creek Rd. (unanimous)
• Approved temporary use permit for clothing collection trailer at 3190 Niagara Falls Blvd. (unanimous)
• Approved area variances for building length, setbacks, and parking at 3275 & 3325 Millersport Highway (unanimous)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is meeting to consider resolutions including a $100,000 bond for culvert replacements, a special use permit for a solar energy system, and several contract awards. Public hearings are scheduled for the bond and solar permit, and residents can comment during public expression periods.

• Resolution 2023-774: Bond resolution for $100,000 for town culvert replacement projects
• Resolution 2023-775: Special use permit for Tier III solar energy system at 800 & 850 New Road
• Resolution 2023-779: Request for public hearing on eminent domain acquisition of a Boulevard Mall parcel
• Resolution 2023-781-785: Award bids for tree planting, crane & hoist services, tractor, kitchen hood inspections, glass repair
• Resolution 2023-786-787: Award bids for radar speed feedback signs and ADA ramp/sidewalk installation

The Town Board approved a $100,000 bond for culvert replacement design and established a Climate Smart Communities Task Force. Several vendor contracts for tree planting, equipment, and infrastructure repairs were awarded. The Board also scheduled a public hearing for the possible eminent domain acquisition of a Boulevard Mall parcel.

• Approved $100,000 bond for Town Culvert Replacement Projects (5-0)
• Established Climate Smart Communities Task Force (5-0)
• Scheduled Oct 16 public hearing for eminent domain acquisition of 3891 Maple Road (5-0)
• Awarded town-wide tree planting bid to Landscape Associate of WNY (5-0)
• Awarded $196,472 ADA ramp and sidewalk contract to Master's Edge, Inc. (5-0)
• Awarded $92,000 radar speed sign contract to Concrete Applied Technologies (5-0)
• Approved amendments to First-Time Homebuyer Program offering up to $50,000 in loans (5-0)
• Adjourned public hearing for solar energy system at 800 & 850 New Road (5-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session to discuss a presentation on the CMOM program and an amendment to the First-Time Homebuyers Program. The board will also review agenda items for the upcoming Town Board meeting and may enter an executive session for a litigation matter.

• Presentation on CMOM (15 mins)
• Amendment to Amherst First-Time Homebuyers Program (15 mins)
• Town Board Meeting Agenda Items
• Executive Session on Litigation Matter

Senior Services Advisory Board

The Amherst Senior Services Advisory Board is meeting to approve minutes, finalize updated by-laws, and discuss its mission statement. The board will also hear reports from department staff and liaisons on current programs and operations.

• Final review of updated by-laws
• Discussion of mission statement
• Report from Director of Senior Services Melissa Abel
• Report from Deputy Town Supervisor Deborah Bruch-Bucki
• Report from Representatives' Council President Del Szczesniak

The Amherst Senior Services Advisory Board met and discussed accreditation, reviewed by-laws, and discussed the mission statement. Mary-Diana Pouli was unanimously approved as ex-officio, pending Town Board approval. The by-laws will be voted on in October. The board also heard reports on budget needs, including a request for additional funds for food costs.

• Approved June 14th minutes (motion by Szczesniak, seconded by Camilleri)
• Unanimously approved Mary-Diana Pouli as ex-officio (to go to Town Board)
• Discussed mission statement; Sue and Jim to work with staff to finalize
• By-laws review completed; vote scheduled for October meeting

Amherst Community Diversity Commission

The Amherst Community Diversity Commission is meeting to review the Juneteenth Celebration, discuss the renaming of Audubon Parkway, and hear liaison reports from the School Board and Town Board. They will also plan activities for the remainder of the year and set the next meeting date.

• Review of Juneteenth Celebration
• Renaming of Audubon Parkway
• School Board liaison report
• Town Board Liaison report
• Activities for the remaining year

The Amherst Community Diversity Commission approved minutes from May and June meetings, and approved scheduling meetings with the town supervisor and police chief. Members discussed the commission's budget, school DEI programs, and support for asylum seekers. No major policy decisions were made; actions were mostly procedural and planning-related.

• Approved May 16 and June 20 meeting minutes with correction (unanimous)
• Approved meeting with town supervisor on Oct 10 and monthly meeting (unanimous)
• Approved motion to adjourn (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Amherst Historic Preservation Commission discussed and advanced a local landmark nomination for 22 Chateau Terrace, received public testimony in favor of the designation, and adjourned demolition referral due to the pending application. The Commission also reviewed material change requests for 400 Mill Street (St. Mary's Motherhouse) and discussed future landmark plaques and membership.

• 22 Chateau Terrace nominated for local landmark designation (5-1 vote)
• 400 Mill Street (St. Mary's Motherhouse) material change request withdrawn for further review
• Chateau Terrace local district nominations merged for joint review
• Local landmark plaques proposed for Harlem Road School and Main Street entranceways
• Two Commission member terms expiring; recruitment planned

The Historic Preservation Commission voted 5-1 to nominate 22 Chateau Terrace for local landmark designation, citing three criteria under the Town Code. The demolition referral for the property was adjourned pending the Town Board's decision on the landmark. A certificate of appropriateness for the St. Mary's Motherhouse roof was withdrawn by the applicant to resubmit with more information.

• Nominated 22 Chateau Terrace for local landmark designation (5-1)
• Adjourned demolition referral for 22 Chateau Terrace pending landmark decision
• Withdrew certificate of appropriateness for St. Mary's Motherhouse roof
• Approved June 6, 2023 minutes (6-0)
• Approved August 8, 2023 special meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved August 8, 2023 regular meeting minutes (6-0)

Recreation Commission

The Amherst Recreation Commission is meeting to approve prior minutes, discuss 2024 ID card fees, and consider a mural request for Alix Rice Peacepark and a request from BAAC Swimming. Liaison reports from various town recreation groups will also be presented.

• 2024 ID card fees discussion
• Alix Rice Peacepark mural request
• BAAC Swimming request
• Approval of March and April 2023 minutes

Amherst Committee on Disabilities

The Amherst Committee on Disabilities will meet to approve minutes from August, discuss updates on a social media page and Amherst Central Park, and acknowledge participation in the Main Street Corridor Plan Project Charter. The committee will also address a rezoning proposal at 1350 Eggert Road and emergency preparedness planning.

• Review Resolution 2023-623 for 1350 Eggert Road rezoning
• Discuss Amherst Central Park updates
• Acknowledge participation in Main Street Corridor Plan Project Charter
• Approve August meeting minutes
• Address emergency preparedness meeting

The Committee on Disabilities approved a motion for Chair Erica Rodman and Vice Chair David Wantuck to draft and send an email to the Town Architect with the Committee's accessibility feedback on the Amherst Central Park project, including the proposed ice ribbon. The Committee also discussed its role as an advisory body, with Town Attorney Marty Polowy clarifying that it should focus on town facilities and direct residents to appropriate channels for private projects. No new business was introduced, and the next meeting was set for October 16, 2023.

• Approved motion for Erica Rodman and David Wantuck to draft and send email to Town Architect Anne Dafchik with accessibility feedback on Amherst Central Park (all in favor)
• Approved August minutes as amended to correct meeting reference (all in favor)
• Set next meeting for October 16, 2023 at 6:30 pm (all in favor)

Traffic-Safety Board

The Amherst Traffic-Safety Board is meeting to discuss and decide on a range of traffic-related requests, including lowering speed limits, adding speed humps, installing crosswalks, and implementing all-way stops. The agenda includes nine new business items and three old business items, plus three site plan reviews. The board will consider specific locations and concerns raised by residents.

• Fair Woods: request to lower speed limit or add speed humps
• New Road between Millersport and Tonawanda Creek Road: speeding and reckless driving concerns
• Tonawanda Creek Road: request to lower speed limit between Niagara Falls Blvd. and Sweet Home Road
• Casey & Prestonwood: request for enhanced crosswalk, speed humps, police enforcement, and public awareness campaign
• 1720, 1740 & 1760 Maple Road: proposed mixed-use project

The Amherst Traffic Safety Board approved a recommendation to the Highway Department to install speed humps on Fair Woods Drive, responding to resident concerns about speeding and cut-through traffic. The board also approved a crosswalk at Kings Highway and Brantwood Drive, referred several other traffic requests to the Highway Department or County, and approved three site plans with conditions.

• Approved recommendation for speed humps on Fair Woods Drive (7-0)
• Approved crosswalk at Kings Highway and Brantwood Drive (4-3)
• Referred New Road concerns to County, held for plans
• Referred Tonawanda Creek Road double yellow line to County
• Approved dead-end sign on Wyeth Drive (7-0)
• Referred Casey Road crosswalk enhancement for pedestrian count
• Approved crosswalk at Willow Ridge and Kaymar Drive (7-0)
• Approved site plans for Maple Road mixed-use, Kaleida parking, Benderson reconfiguration

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session to discuss agenda items, followed by an executive session for a pending litigation matter. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific action items listed.

• Executive session on pending litigation

Town Board

The Town Board will review several zoning map amendments for properties on Main Street and Niagara Falls Boulevard. The meeting also includes discussions on board appointments, legal settlements, and various equipment purchases.

• Zoning map amendments for 5226 and 5228 Main Street
• Zoning map amendments for 1501-1551 and 1565-1703 Niagara Falls Boulevard
• Public hearing regarding Romney Road All-Way Stop Intersection
• Purchase of an Altec Bucket Tree Truck and a John Deere HD Flail Mower Attachment
• Settlements for multiple Article 7 matters including Amelia J. Habib V. Town of Amherst

The Amherst Town Board approved four rezoning requests, including a mixed-use development at 5226 and 5228 Main Street and three Shopping Center (SC) district rezonings on Niagara Falls Boulevard. The board also approved an all-way stop intersection on Romney Road, several tax assessment settlements, and numerous contracts and purchases. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved all-way stop at Romney Road plaza drives (5-0)
• Adopted rezoning at 5226 & 5228 Main St to TI-4, as amended (5-0)
• Adopted rezoning at 1501-1551 Niagara Falls Blvd to SC (5-0)
• Adopted rezoning at 1565, 1575-1659 & 1641-1703 Niagara Falls Blvd to SC (5-0)
• Approved settlements in four tax assessment lawsuits (5-0)
• Authorized litigation against Precision Tree Removal (5-0)
• Awarded $306,025 Dana Heights playground contract (5-0)
• Approved $242,758 purchase of Altec bucket tree truck (5-0)

Design Advisory Board

The Town of Amherst Design Advisory Board is holding a regular public meeting. The agenda contains no design review applications, no other communications, and no unfinished business; the only substantive item is a discussion of board procedures for preliminary design review. The board will also approve minutes from its July 27, 2023 meeting.

• No design review applications scheduled
• Discussion of Design Advisory Board procedures for preliminary design review
• Minutes approval for July 27, 2023 meeting

The Board agreed to implement a new application and procedure for optional preliminary design reviews. This process allows developers to receive early feedback before formal site plan applications. The Board will evaluate whether to make these reviews mandatory after a trial period.

• Approved proposed process changes and preliminary review application
• Approved July 27, 2023 meeting minutes (3-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board will hold public hearings on four rezoning requests along Niagara Falls Boulevard and Main Street, and on Eggert Road. The board will also consider several resolutions, including bond authorizations for lighting and electric vehicle charging stations, and appointments to various boards and committees.

• Public hearings on rezoning: 1501-1551 Niagara Falls Blvd, 1561-1703 Niagara Falls Blvd, 5226 & 5228 Main St, 1350 Eggert Rd
• Bond resolution for Evergreen Lighting District ($1,350,000)
• Bond resolution for Electric Vehicle Charging Stations ($200,000)
• Set public hearing for Town Culvert Replacement Projects ($100,000)
• Award bids for Control Systems Integrator Service, Sprinkler System Improvements, and Emergency Signal Repair

The Town Board authorized several bond resolutions for infrastructure, including street lighting and EV charging stations. Multiple rezoning requests were scheduled for future decisions, and one rezoning hearing for Eggert Road was adjourned for further study.

• Approved $1.35M bond for Evergreen Lighting District extension (5-0)
• Approved $200,000 bond for Electric Vehicle Charging Stations (5-0)
• Approved $208,727.20 purchase of Kubota Tractor for Highway Department (5-0)
• Approved $1.113M bid to Paragon Environmental Construction for fuel oil tank closure (5-0)
• Approved $23,380 bid to Hohl Industrial for WPCF sluice gate project (5-0)
• Set decision dates for Sept 5 for rezoning at 1501-1551 NFB, 1561-1703 NFB, and 5226-5228 Main St (5-0)
• Adjourned 1350 Eggert Road rezoning hearing until Sept 18 for stormwater and traffic data (5-0)
• Approved $628,897 CDBG and $1,010,939 HOME contracts with HUD (5-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session to receive an update on the Strategic Plan for Economic Development from RKG Associates, discuss agenda items for the upcoming Town Board meeting, and consider an executive session on an attorney conflict waiver. The meeting is primarily informational and preparatory, with no final decisions scheduled.

• Update on the Strategic Plan for Economic Development by RKG Associates (20 minutes)
• Discussion of Town Board Meeting Agenda Items
• Executive session on Attorney Conflict Waiver

Planning Board

The Amherst Planning Board is holding public hearings on several site plans, including a proposed Tier III solar energy system on New Road and a major redevelopment of the Amherst Commerce Center on Ridge Lea Road. The Commerce Center proposals include a new Costco with a fueling station, a Dick's House of Sport, a Delta Sonic warehouse, and an office building, all to be unified for shared access. The board also will hear a request to rezone land on North French Road and a SEQR hearing for a 26-lot subdivision on Transit Road. Several items are listed as unfinished business, including extension requests for the Gurdwara Cultural Center and a subdivision on Klein Road.

• Proposed 167,720 sq ft Costco with fueling station and 774 parking spaces at Ridge Lea Road
• Proposed 120,000 sq ft Dick's House of Sport with 349 parking spaces at Ridge Lea Road
• Proposed 108,000 sq ft Delta Sonic warehouse at Ridge Lea Road
• Proposed Tier III solar energy system at 800 & 850 New Road
• Rezoning request for 5.09 acres at 1635 & 1639-1641 North French Road from residential to commercial/mixed use

The Amherst Planning Board approved the Amherst Commerce Center development, including a Costco with fueling station, a Dick's House of Sport, and a Delta Sonic warehouse, as unified developments. The board also approved a 5 MW solar energy system on New Road and a comprehensive plan amendment for mixed-use development on North French Road. A proposed 116-unit apartment/townhouse development on Dodge Road and a 26-lot subdivision on Transit Road were adjourned.

• Approved Tier III Solar Energy System at 800 & 850 New Road (6-0)
• Approved Costco with fueling station, SP-2023-03 (5-0)
• Approved Dick's House of Sport, SP-2023-07 (5-0)
• Approved Delta Sonic warehouse, SP-1996-14D (5-0)
• Approved office building, SP-1983-42J (5-0)
• Approved Dana Heights Playground at 79 Shetland Drive (6-0)
• Approved comprehensive plan amendment for 1635 & 1639-1641 North French Road (6-0)
• Adjourned 116-unit apartment/townhouse at 480 Dodge Road and 26-lot subdivision at 10060 Transit Road

Recycling and Waste Committee

The Town of Amherst Recycling and Waste Committee is meeting to discuss waste and recycling reports, food scrap collection and composting plans, the status of a plastic utensils upon request legislation, and a funding request for a committee web page. The agenda also includes membership status and scheduling for upcoming events like the Farmers Market and pumpkin drop-off.

• Food scrap collections and composting planning, including Farmers Market scheduling and 2023 pumpkin drop-off
• Review of organics program rollout from City of Kingston for collection sites
• Status update on Plastic Utensils Upon Request legislation
• Request for money for committee web page
• Membership status and new member consideration

The committee noted that a recycling dumpster for condo/apartment dwellers is now available at the Highway Department next to food scrap collections, with other potential sites to be considered. No formal votes or substantive decisions were made; the meeting consisted of updates and discussions, including volunteer needs, garbage tote enforcement, and organics rollout in Kingston.

• Recycling dumpster for condo/apartment dwellers now available at Highway Department (no vote recorded)
• Other potential dumpster sites to be considered at New Northwest Community Center, Snyder, Eggertsville, Southwest Amherst (discussed)

Amherst Government Financial Advisory Board

The Amherst Government Financial Advisory Board is meeting to handle routine administrative items, including approving minutes, amending its by-laws, and adding meeting dates to the town website. The board will also discuss bonds (BANS) and the town's Moody's credit rating, as well as review capital improvement projects. No decisions are noted on these discussion items.

• Approval of minutes from last meeting
• Review, amend, and approval of draft of AGFAB By-Laws
• Addition of meeting dates to Town website and MinuteTraq website
• BANS/Bonds discussion
• Moody's Credit Rating discussion

The board met to discuss the process of securing Bond Anticipation Notes (BANs) and bonds for capital improvement projects. No formal votes or decisions were recorded.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals meets to hear 13 appeals and variances, including requests for fences, signs, parking, and commercial uses that do not fully comply with zoning ordinances. The board will consider area variances for properties on Kings Highway, Glen Meadow Drive, Shetland Drive, Lakewood Parkway, Cherrywood Drive, Sagewood Terrace, Sheridan Drive, Main Street, and Millersport Highway, as well as a use variance for additional parking at a medical office and special use permits for a landscaping business and a service station at Costco.

• 231 Kings Highway - 6-foot fence 0 feet from north property line (requires 10 feet)
• 5169 Sheridan Drive - Signage totaling 231.8 s.f. (limit 100.5 s.f.)
• 190 Maple Road - Use variance for additional off-street parking at medical office
• 4224-4256 Ridge Lea Road - Special use permit for service station at Costco
• 4224-4256 Ridge Lea Road - Dick’s building 20 feet from west property line (requires 30 feet)

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a special use permit for a gas station at the Costco site on Ridge Lea Road and granted area variances for a proposed Dick's building at the same location. The board also unanimously approved eight other area variances for residential and commercial properties, while adjourning four items to the next meeting.

• Approved Special Use Permit for Costco gas station (4-0, Shubert abstained)
• Approved Area Variance for Dick's building at Ridge Lea Road (4-0, Shubert abstained)
• Approved Area Variance for HVAC unit at 231 Kings Highway (5-0)
• Approved Area Variance for generator at 24 Glen Meadow Drive South (5-0)
• Approved Area Variance for recreation area at 79 Shetland Drive (5-0)
• Approved Area Variance for fence at 136 Cherrywood Drive (5-0)
• Approved Area Variance for fence at 266 Sagewood Terrace (5-0)
• Approved Area Variance for signage at 5169 Sheridan Drive (5-0)

Amherst Committee on Disabilities

The Amherst Committee on Disabilities is meeting to discuss old and new business, including a guest presentation from the Director of Emergency Services and Safety. The committee will also review past projects and consider participation in the Main Street Corridor Plan.

• Guest speaker: Jim Zymanek, Director of Emergency Services and Safety
• Squire Project update
• Health Fair planning
• Amherst Central Park discussion
• Main Street Corridor Plan Project Charter participation acknowledgement

The committee discussed the proposed rezoning of Eggert Road for apartment buildings, noting the Planning Board approved it unanimously but the Town Board has not yet voted. Residents raised concerns about driveway access and safety for a nearby group home. The committee also agreed to collaborate with Emergency Services to improve shelter accessibility and scheduled a follow-up meeting.

• May minutes approved unanimously
• Motion to open floor to residents on Eggert Road rezoning passed unanimously
• No vote taken on Eggert Road rezoning (Town Board decision pending)
• Agreed to schedule meeting with Emergency Services Director regarding shelter accessibility
• Agreed to send inquiry to Town Architect about accessibility of potential 'ice ribbon' at Amherst Central Park
• Agreed to add Health Fair planning to January 2024 agenda

Historic Preservation Commission

The Commission met to discuss various preservation items, including a demolition referral and local district nominations for Chateau Terrace. The demolition referral for 22 Chateau Terrace was adjourned to the next meeting following an applicant request. Other discussions included budget matters, landmark plaques, and potential revisions to the town's historic preservation law.

• Demolition referral for 22 Chateau Terrace (adjourned)
• Local district nominations for Chateau Terrace
• Discussion of local landmark plaques for Harlem Road School and Main Street entranceways
• Proposal for revision of the Historic Preservation Law of the Town of Amherst
• General budget discussion

The Historic Preservation Commission voted unanimously to recommend the Town Board hold a public hearing to adopt amendments to Chapter 121 (Historic Preservation Law) via Local Law. All other agenda items were procedural: the Commission approved prior meeting minutes, adjourned the Chateau Terrace demolition referral and two district nominations to the September 12 meeting, and approved two small budget expenditures. The September meeting was not rescheduled.

• Recommended Town Board hold public hearing to adopt Chapter 121 amendments (6-0)
• Approved May 9, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Adjourned June 6, 2023 minutes to September 12 for correction (6-0)
• Adjourned 22 Chateau Terrace demolition referral to September 12 (6-0)
• Adjourned Chateau Terrace Local District Nomination #1 to September 12 (6-0)
• Adjourned Chateau Terrace Local District Nomination #2 to September 12 (6-0)
• Approved $599.50 payment to The Copy Store for printing (6-0)
• Approved $275.81 reimbursement to Waterman-Kulpa for Preservation Day (6-0)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Amherst Historic Preservation Commission is holding a public hearing to consider designating 22 Chateau Terrace as a landmark. The meeting also includes regular commission business, with attendance by members and town staff.

• Public hearing on landmark designation for 22 Chateau Terrace

The Historic Preservation Commission held a public hearing regarding the local landmark nomination for 22 Chateau Terrace. After hearing testimony from ten residents in favor of the designation, the commission voted to adjourn the matter.

• Opened public hearing for 22 Chateau Terrace landmark nomination (6-0)
• Closed public hearing for 22 Chateau Terrace landmark nomination (6-0)
• Adjourned proposed individual landmarking of 22 Chateau Terrace (6-0)

Town Board

The Town Board will review multiple board appointments to fill various vacancies. The meeting also includes discussions on playground safety improvements, infrastructure projects, and several legal settlements.

• Amended bond resolution of $400,000 for playground safety equipment and surface improvements
• Appointment of members to various boards including the Conservation Advisory Council and Youth Board
• Setting a public hearing date for the Romney Road all-way stop intersection
• Awarding bid for the demolition of 160 Campus Drive
• Public improvement permits for North Maplemere Extension water, sanitary, storm, and paving

The Amherst Town Board approved a $400,000 bond resolution for playground safety equipment and surface improvements at Bedford Park and Dana Heights Park, along with a related SEQR determination. The board also approved numerous contracts, including a $397,000 renovation contract for the Amherst Community Policing and Training Center, and settled several litigation matters. All votes were unanimous except for the adulticides and pesticides bid award, which passed 4-1.

• Approved $400,000 bond for playground safety equipment and surfacing (5-0)
• Awarded $397,000 contract to Peyton Barlow Company for Community Policing and Training Center renovations (5-0)
• Approved adulticides and pesticides bid awards to six vendors (4-1, Bucki nay)
• Approved $125,755 purchase of Case CX 75 excavator (5-0)
• Approved $32,000 demolition contract for 160 Campus Drive to Geiter Done of WNY Inc. (5-0)
• Approved settlements totaling $88,109.42 in three litigation matters (5-0)
• Approved $25,941 for WPCF oxygen plant repairs (5-0)
• Approved short-term extension of Unifirst Corp. uniform rental contract (5-0)

Traffic-Safety Board

The Amherst Traffic-Safety Board is meeting to discuss traffic and safety concerns, including parking restrictions, speeding, and warning signs, as well as to review several site plans and rezoning requests. These items are under review and may be subject to public hearing or further action.

• Parking restriction requests on Garnet Road, 59 Kaymar Drive, and Meyer Road
• Late Night Flash request at Wehrle Drive and Lehn Springs
• Rezoning of 5.09 acres at 1635 & 1639-1641 N. French to commercial/mixed-use
• Proposed 26-lot subdivision 'Ashley Green' at 10060 Transit Road
• Costco development at Ridge Lea and Meyer Roads with retail, warehousing, and fuel stations

The Amherst Traffic Safety Board approved several parking restrictions and traffic safety measures, including a parking restriction on Garnet Road and curve advisory signs at multiple locations. The board also reviewed and approved with conditions two subdivision site plans and a major site plan for a Costco development, while denying a preliminary plat for a proposed subdivision on Klein Road.

• Approved parking restriction on south side of Garnet Road (8-0)
• Approved curve advisory signs at Winterbrook Drive/Corsica Way, Corsica Way, and Winterbrook close to Aviano Way (8-0 each)
• Approved parking restriction on inside curve of Kaymar Drive (8-0)
• Extended 'No Parking' on Meyer Road to year-round (8-0)
• Approved referral to Erie County for tree removal at 2500 Kensington Avenue (8-0)
• Denied preliminary plat for 19-sublot subdivision at 166 Klein Road
• Approved with conditions SEQR and preliminary plat for 26-lot 'Ashley Green' subdivision at 10060 Transit Road
• Approved with conditions major site plan for Amherst Commerce Center 'Costco' at Ridge Lea Road and Meyer Road

Design Advisory Board

The Design Advisory Board is holding a public meeting with no design review applications on the agenda. The board will review its own procedures and approve minutes from previous meetings. No other business is scheduled.

• No design review applications
• Review of Design Advisory Board procedures
• Minutes approval for December 8, 2022, May 25, 2023, and June 29, 2023

The Board decided to offer optional, non-mandated preliminary reviews for developers to provide flexibility and maintain the Planning Board calendar. The Board also approved a specific list of required documents and instructional language for these preliminary review applications.

• Approved offering optional, non-mandated preliminary reviews (Unanimous)
• Approved required documents and instructional language for preliminary reviews (Unanimous)
• Approved December 8, 2022 minutes (5-0)
• Approved May 25, 2023 minutes (5-0)
• Approved June 29, 2023 minutes (5-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a regular meeting with public hearings on several rezoning requests, including properties on Sweet Home Road and Eggert Road, and bond resolutions for sewer and water pollution control facility improvements. The board will also consider numerous resolutions covering contracts, appointments, and other administrative matters.

• Public hearing: Rezoning and amendment of declaration of restrictions for 2350 & 2360-2372 Sweet Home Road
• Public hearing: Bond resolution for $185,000 for 2023 Engineering Department Sewer Building Improvements and Demolition
• Public hearing: Bond resolution for $1.325M for WPCF Multi-Project Bond
• Public hearing: Rezoning of 1350 Eggert Road
• Resolution 2023-631: Settlement of Article 7 matter - Reist Street Holdings, LP v. Town of Amherst

The Amherst Town Board held a regular meeting on July 24, 2023, and took several actions. The board adopted a $1.325 million bond resolution for multiple projects at the Water Pollution Control Facility (WPCF), including design for a cryogenic oxygen plant replacement, building and equipment infrastructure, and HVAC improvements. The board also adopted a $185,000 bond for sewer building improvements and demolition, and a $200,000 bond for Senior Center renovations. A rezoning request for 1350 Eggert Road was adjourned to August 21st, and a request to rezone 2350 Sweet Home Road was withdrawn.

• Adopted $1.325M bond for WPCF multi-project upgrades (5-0)
• Adopted $185,000 bond for sewer building improvements and demolition (5-0)
• Adopted $200,000 bond for Senior Center cafe/gift shop renovations (5-0)
• Adopted local law to rezone 3945 Rensch Road from R-4 to CTR-5 (5-0)
• Adjourned public hearing for 1350 Eggert Road rezoning to Aug 21 (5-0)
• Withdrew rezoning and restriction amendment for 2350 Sweet Home Road
• Authorized payment to Amrex Chemical for pool chemicals (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including various contracts and appointments (5-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session to discuss agenda items, including an executive session covering health insurance, part-time hourly rates, and a litigation settlement. No formal votes are scheduled; the meeting is for discussion only.

• Executive session on health insurance
• Executive session on part-time hourly rates
• Executive session on litigation settlement

Employee Suggestion Review Committee

The Town of Amherst Employee Suggestion Review Committee is meeting to review submitted employee suggestions. The agenda includes attendance, approval of past minutes, and discussion of suggestions, with no specific items or decisions detailed.

• Review of submitted suggestions
• Approval of November 16, 2021 minutes
• Approval of August 24, 2022 meeting notes

The Employee Suggestion Review Committee approved minutes from two prior meetings and reviewed ten employee suggestions, referring most to town departments for action. No substantive policy decisions were made; items were either referred, received and filed, or discussed. The next meeting was postponed and later cancelled due to lack of new suggestions.

• Approved minutes from November 16, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from August 24, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Referred shorts-at-work suggestion to Highway, Plant, and Emergency Services for review
• Referred facility naming concern to Town Board and staff
• Referred Northtown Center security to Youth and Recreation and Facilities
• Referred Town Hall security to Town Board, Police, Emergency Services, and Facilities
• Referred washout bay hose suggestion to Engineering and Highway
• Referred plow truck telescope suggestion to Highway Department

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board held a regular meeting on July 10, 2023, at the Amherst Municipal Building. The board approved multiple bond resolutions totaling over $3.26 million for highway vehicles, playground safety, ballfield lighting, and sewer improvements. Several appointments to local boards and committees were also discussed.

• Bond resolution for highway vehicles and equipment - $900,000
• Playground safety equipment and surface improvements - $250,000
• Central Amherst Little League ballfield lighting improvements - $250,000
• Townwide curbing replacement - $50,000
• WPCF multi-project bond for sewer improvements - $1.325M

The Amherst Town Board unanimously approved a series of bond resolutions totaling $1.55 million for capital improvements, including $1 million for highway vehicles and equipment, $250,000 for playground safety equipment, $250,000 for Central Amherst Little League ballfield lighting, and $50,000 for townwide curbing replacement. The board also approved the appointment of 17 police officers and one detective, and scheduled public hearings for several rezoning requests.

• Approved $900,000 bond for highway vehicles and equipment (5-0)
• Approved $100,000 bond for highway vehicles and equipment (5-0)
• Approved $250,000 bond for playground safety equipment and surfaces (5-0)
• Approved $250,000 bond for Central Amherst Little League ballfield lighting (5-0)
• Approved $50,000 bond for townwide curbing replacement (5-0)
• Approved appointment of 17 police officers and 1 detective (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearings for rezoning at 5226 & 5228 Main St and Niagara Falls Blvd properties (5-0)
• Approved $3,300 Blazestack fire investigation software contract (5-0)

Design Advisory Board

The Design Advisory Board will hold a public meeting to review board procedures. There are no design review applications or unfinished business scheduled for this meeting.

• Review of Design Advisory Board procedures

The Board reviewed its current design review processes and discussed methods to ensure their recommendations are better integrated into Planning Board resolutions. No formal votes were taken on applications or minutes due to a lack of a quorum. The Board expressed interest in meeting again on July 27 to further discuss procedural improvements.

• Tabled approval of December 8, 2022 minutes due to lack of quorum
• Tabled approval of May 25, 2023 minutes due to lack of quorum

Recycling and Waste Committee

The Town of Amherst Recycling and Waste Committee is meeting to discuss waste and recycling reports, food scrap collection and composting efforts, and the status of a plastic utensils upon request legislation. The committee will also review membership status and a funding request for its web page.

• Food scrap collections/composting scheduling for Farmers Market, including youth/outside volunteers
• Brown matter (wood chips) at Highway Department site
• Status of Plastic Utensils Upon Request legislation
• Request for money for committee web page
• Membership status – new members?

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a regular meeting with public hearings on two rezoning requests: 3945 Rensch Road and 2350 & 2360-2372 Sweet Home Road. The board will also consider a $3.25 million bond for the North Maplemere Road extension and improvements, along with several other bond resolutions for park, police, and building projects. Numerous appointments to boards and committees are on the agenda, as well as various contracts and agreements.

• Public hearing: Rezoning at 3945 Rensch Road (Resolution 2023-528)
• Public hearing: Rezoning and declaration amendment at 2350 & 2360-2372 Sweet Home Road (Resolution 2023-529)
• Bond resolution: Dellwood Park Inclusive Field & Park Improvements - $360,000
• Bond resolution: 2023 Police Department Vehicles - $255,000
• North Maplemere Road Extension and Improvements - $3.25M (Resolution 2023-540)

The Amherst Town Board approved several bond resolutions for capital projects, including road extensions, park improvements, and equipment acquisitions. The board also accepted completed sanitary sewer construction projects, authorized budget transfers, and approved agreements for housing development and town leases.

• Adopted Local Law to Amend the Zoning Map at 3945 Rensch Road (5-0)
• Adjourned public hearing for 2350 & 2360-2372 Sweet Home Road Rezoning to July 24, 2023 (5-0)
• Authorized $360,000 bond resolution for Dellwood Park Inclusive Field & Park Improvements (5-0)
• Authorized $255,000 bond resolution for 2023 Police Department Vehicles (5-0)
• Authorized $248,000 bond resolution for Amherst Central Park Facilities Professional Services (5-0)
• Authorized $117,000 bond resolution for Building Maintenance/Facilities Equipment (5-0)
• Authorized $100,000 bond resolution for Amherst Central Park Clubhouse Commissioning (5-0)
• Authorized $3,250,000 bond resolution for North Maplemere Road Extension and Improvements (5-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session to discuss agenda items, including a presentation on Westfield Speed Humps. No formal votes are scheduled; this is a discussion-only meeting.

• Presentation of Westfield Speed Humps by C. Schregel and Pat Lucey

Planning Board

The Amherst Planning Board meets to review and discuss several proposed developments under the Amherst Commerce Center initiative, including retail buildings with a fueling station, warehousing facilities, and office buildings. The board also considers rezoning requests for properties along Niagara Falls Boulevard and Main Street. All public hearings for these items have already been completed.

• Proposed Amherst Commerce Center retail buildings with fueling station at 4200 Ridge Lea Road (SP-2023-03)
• Proposed Amherst Commerce Center warehousing facility at 4224-4258 Ridge Lea Road and 280-306 Meyer Road (SP-1996-14D)
• Proposed Amherst Commerce Center office building at 4224 Ridge Lea Road and 256-280 Meyer Road (SP-1983-42J)
• Request to rezone 13.93 acres from DC-3 to SC at 1501-1551 Niagara Falls Blvd. (Z-2023-04)
• Request to rezone 63.2 acres from CTR-5 to SC at 1561-1703 Niagara Falls Blvd. (Z-2023-05)

The Amherst Planning Board approved several rezoning requests and a warehouse project, while adjourning multiple site plan proposals for the Amherst Commerce Center to a later date. The board also approved a sidewalk waiver and negative declaration for the warehouse project.

• Approved rezoning of 13.93 acres from DC-3 to SC at 1501-1551 Niagara Falls Blvd (5-1, 1 abstention)
• Approved rezoning of 63.2 acres from CTR-5 to SC at 1561-1703 Niagara Falls Blvd (5-1, 1 abstention)
• Approved rezoning of 1.1 acres from GB to TI4 at 5226 & 5228 Main Street (7-0)
• Approved warehouse project at 415-455 Lawrence Bell Drive including negative declaration and sidewalk waiver (7-0)
• Adjourned Costco site plan and unified development request to 8/17/2023 (7-0)
• Adjourned warehousing facility site plan and unified development request to 8/17/2023 (7-0)
• Adjourned office building site plan and unified development request to 8/17/2023 (7-0)
• Adjourned apartment/townhouse development at 480 Dodge Road to 8/17/2023 (7-0)

Traffic-Safety Board

The Amherst Traffic-Safety Board is meeting to discuss and decide on various traffic-related concerns, including speeding, pedestrian safety, and requests for new traffic controls. The agenda includes eight new business items and two old business items, as well as several site plan and rezoning proposals. The board will consider specific requests such as an all-way stop on Willow Green Drive and a parking restriction on Clarion Court.

• Kensington Avenue speeding concerns
• Hampton Hill Drive pedestrian safety & speed concern
• Westfield Road speed hump concept review
• Willow Green Drive all-way stop request
• Hartford Road speeding concerns

The Amherst Traffic Safety Board approved the installation of three speed humps on Westfield Road as proposed by the town's design engineer, with before-and-after data also to be collected on Ivyhurst Road. The board also approved several other traffic measures, including a protected right turn phase and pedestrian signals at North Forest and Klein Road, and recommended an all-way stop design at Romney Road to the Town Board. Items on Kensington Avenue and Hampton Hill Drive were received and filed without action, and a request for a 'Cross Traffic Does Not Stop' sign at Willow Green Drive failed on a 4-4 vote.

• Approved installation of 3 speed humps on Westfield Road (9-0)
• Approved protected right turn phase and pedestrian heads at North Forest & Klein Road (8-1)
• Recommended all-way stop design at Romney Road to Town Board (9-0)
• Approved advanced playground signs on Willow Green Drive (8-0)
• Approved protected turning phases on all legs of Youngs/Klein intersection (9-0)
• Received and filed Kensington Avenue speeding concerns (8-0)
• Received and filed Hampton Hill Drive pedestrian safety concerns
• Denied 'Cross Traffic Does Not Stop' sub-plaque at Willow Green Drive (4-4)

Amherst Conservation Advisory Council

The Amherst Conservation Advisory Council is meeting to review the status of Amherst State Park and discuss several land donations and property matters, including 2800 Hopkins Road and Muir Woods. The council will also consider nominating additional sites for the NYS Birding Trail and hear updates on open space planning and various park properties.

• Review of ongoing items at Amherst State Park
• Discussion of 2800 Hopkins Road land donation
• Muir Woods property donation and future access
• Consideration of nominating Veterans Canal, Natureview, and Dann Lake for NYS Birding Trail
• Land clearing at 990/North French and updates on 4300 Millersport Hwy and 10060 Transit Road

Senior Services Advisory Board

The Amherst Senior Services Advisory Board is meeting to discuss routine business, including approving past minutes, adding a new ex-officio member, and researching Senior Center accreditation. They will also hear reports from the Senior Services director and the deputy town supervisor, and review their by-laws and mission statement.

• Motion to add Mary-Diana Pouli as ex-officio
• Motion to research Senior Center Accreditation
• Report from Melissa Abel, Director, Senior Services
• Report from Deborah Bruch-Bucki, RN, PhD, Deputy Town Supervisor
• Review of By-Laws and Mission Statement

The Amherst Senior Services Advisory Board unanimously approved February and April meeting minutes, added Mary-Diana Pouli as ex-officio, and approved a motion to research Senior Center Accreditation. The board also discussed proposed by-law changes, a mission statement committee, and a budget increase request for the Center.

• Approved February meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved April meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved adding Mary-Diana Pouli as ex-officio (unanimous)
• Approved motion to research Senior Center Accreditation (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals will hold hearings on 13 appeals, including area variances, a temporary use permit, and a special use permit. Items include residential fence and building setbacks, a landscaping business in a residential zone, and a proposed Costco gas station and Dick's building at Ridge Lea Road. The board will also approve minutes from the May 16 meeting.

• 90 Pearce Drive: 6-ft fence at 0-ft setback (requires 30 ft)
• 3800 Sheridan Drive: vehicle area 10.5 ft from property line (requires 15 ft)
• 4196 Sherian Drive: temporary use permit for landscaping business in R-3 zone
• 4224-4256 Ridge Lea Road: special use permit for Costco gas station; area variance for Dick's building (20-ft setback vs 30-ft required)
• 2350 Sweet Home Road: sun room additions reducing building separation to 24 ft and 17.29 ft

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals approved nine area variances, denied one sign height variance, and tabled three items including a Costco gas station special use permit. All votes were unanimous (4-0) except the sign base width variance, which passed 3-1. The board also adjourned a temporary use permit for a landscaping business until August.

• Approved fence variance at 90 Pearce Drive (unanimous)
• Approved vehicle use area variance at 3800 Sheridan Drive (unanimous)
• Approved fence variance at 66 Beachridge Drive with condition (unanimous)
• Approved building addition variance at 120 Via Foresta Lane (unanimous)
• Approved fence variance at 555 North Forest Road (unanimous)
• Approved garage height variance at 475 North Forest Road (unanimous)
• Approved heat pump variance at 318 Washington Hwy (unanimous)
• Approved building separation variance at 2350 Sweet Home Road (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Amherst Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to discuss and potentially decide on several items, including a demolition referral for 22 Chateau Terrace, landmark designation applications for 4548 Main Street (Squire Shop) and 22 Chateau Terrace, and a certificate of appropriateness for St. Mary's Motherhouse roof replacement. The agenda also includes updates on a CLG grant, a proposal to revise the town's historic preservation law, and possible landmarking of other properties. Several items were previously adjourned and are expected to be revisited.

• 22 Chateau Terrace - demolition referral
• 4548 Main Street (Squire Shop) - landmark designation application
• 22 Chateau Terrace - landmark designation application
• St. Mary's Motherhouse @ 400 Mill Street - certificate of appropriateness for roof replacement
• Proposal for revision of the Historic Preservation Law of the Town of Amherst

The Amherst Historic Preservation Commission denied a Certificate of Appropriateness for replacing the original slate roof at St. Mary's Apartments (400 Mill Street) with CertainTeed Grand Manor shingles, voting 4-0. The commission also approved sending the landmark designation application for 22 Chateau Terrace to a public hearing, voting 4-1, and adjourned the demolition referral for the same property to the August meeting.

• Denied Certificate of Appropriateness for St. Mary's roof replacement with CertainTeed Grand Manor shingles (4-0)
• Approved sending 22 Chateau Terrace landmark application to public hearing (4-1)
• Adjourned 22 Chateau Terrace demolition referral to August 8, 2023 meeting (4-0)
• Adjourned 4548 Main Street (Squire Shop) landmark application to June meeting (5-0)
• Adjourned minutes approval for May 9, 2023 meeting (4-0)
• Removed BNHV properties landmarking research item from agenda (5-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board will hold its regular meeting to approve bond resolutions for multiple infrastructure projects totaling $2.4M, including waterfront revitalization, sanitary sewer improvements, and HVAC upgrades at the Senior Center. The agenda also includes public hearings on a proposed development at 1350 Eggert Road and routine departmental resolutions.

• Adopt Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP) Plan
• Approve $675,000 Engineering Equipment and Vehicle Bond
• Approve $380,000 Sanitary Sewer Assessment Projects Bond
• Approve $300,000 Boulevard Central District Sanitary Sewer Improvements Bond
• Approve $592,000 Senior Center HVAC/Carpet Replacement Bond

The Amherst Town Board unanimously adopted the Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP) Plan and authorized its submission to the NYS Secretary of State. The board also approved a series of bond resolutions totaling over $2.4 million for engineering equipment, sanitary sewer projects, senior center improvements, and Audubon Golf Course planning. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Adopted Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP) Plan (5-0)
• Approved $675,000 bond for engineering equipment and vehicles (5-0)
• Approved $380,000 bond for sanitary sewer assessment projects (5-0)
• Approved $300,000 bond for Boulevard Central District sewer improvements (5-0)
• Approved $592,000 bond for Senior Center HVAC/carpet replacement (5-0)
• Approved $500,000 bond for Audubon Golf Course improvements (5-0)
• Approved $872,722.25 bid for Robinhill Road waterline replacement (5-0)
• Approved $529,400 bid for Highway Department fuel system repair (5-0)

Design Advisory Board

The Design Advisory Board will conduct a preliminary review for a proposed mixed-use building. The project is located at 1720, 1740, and 1760 Maple Road and is submitted by PB Investors, LLC.

• Preliminary review of SP-2023-06: Proposed mixed-use building at 1720, 1740, & 1760 Maple Road

The Board conducted a preliminary review of a proposed mixed-use development at 1720, 1740, and 1760 Maple Road. No official recommendations were made to the Planning Board as the project requires significant design and submission revisions.

• Preliminary review of SP-2023-06 mixed-use proposal completed
• Official recommendations to Planning Board withheld pending revisions
• Approval of December 8, 2023 minutes adjourned due to lack of quorum

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a regular meeting with public hearings on demolishing 88 Smallwood Drive, adopting a Local Waterfront Revitalization Program law, and amending Chapter 203 to exclude certain public uses. The board will also vote on numerous resolutions, including a $250,000 bond for roadway reconstruction, several legal settlements, and various appointments and contracts.

• Public hearing: Demolition of 88 Smallwood Drive (Resolution 2023-466)
• Public hearing: Local Law - Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP) (Resolution 2023-467)
• Public hearing: Local Law Amending Chapter 203 to Exclude Certain Public Uses (Resolution 2023-326)
• Bond resolution: $250,000 for 2023 Roadways Reconstruction on Meadowbrook Road and Blossom Heath (Resolution 2023-470)
• Settlements of Article 7 matters involving Kamal Enterprises, Lisa Friedman & Scott Friedman, Iskalo Asset Fund II, Sheridan Properties II, and Iskalo Office Holdings II (Resolutions 2023-471 to 2023-475)

The Town Board approved a $250,000 bond for the reconstruction of Meadowbrook Road and Blossom Heath. Several legal settlements regarding tax assessments were adopted, and a local law to exclude certain public uses from zoning was withdrawn.

• Approved $250,000 bond for Meadowbrook Road and Blossom Heath reconstruction (5-0)
• Withdrew Local Law amending Chapter 203 to exclude certain public uses
• Approved $87,500 contract to American Paving and Excavating, Inc. for Niagara Falls Boulevard pavement (5-0)
• Approved $51,118 purchase of an easement machine from Dyna-Vac Equipment, Inc. (5-0)
• Approved $52,687.60 purchase of a 2022 Dodge Ram 2500 from Falls Dodge, Inc. (5-0)
• Adopted settlements for Article 7 tax matters involving Kamal Enterprises, Lisa/Scott Friedman & Todd Levine, Iskalo Asset Fund II, Sheridan Properties II, and Iskalo Office Holdings II (5-0)
• Approved appointment of Wendy Machowski to the Amherst Tree Board (5-0)
• Approved fireworks permits for Country Club of Buffalo and Transit Valley Country Club (5-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session with two presentations: a land study by Bergmann Associates and an after-action plan review. No formal decisions are scheduled; the agenda is otherwise procedural.

• Presentation of SA Land Study by M. Gaudioso & J. Steinmetz (Bergmann Associates)
• Presentation of After Action Plan by J. Zymanek & B. Peters

Records Management Advisory Board

The Records Management Advisory Board is meeting to discuss records management operations, including the status of state grant awards, plans for a new records center, and relocation of town archives and police records. The agenda is largely procedural and informational, with no major policy decisions or public hearings listed.

• Status of NYS Archives LGRMIF Grant Awards
• Plans for new Records Center
• Amherst 2023-2024 LGRMIF Grant Application
• Relocation of Town Archives to BNHV Building
• Relocation of Police Records at the Records Center

Planning Board

The Amherst Planning Board will hold public hearings on an office building addition at 2420-2430 North Forest Road and a rezoning request for 3.61 acres at 1350 Eggert Road. Under unfinished business, the board will continue reviewing the Snyder mixed-use building proposal, which was previously adjourned pending historic preservation determinations. The agenda also includes a final plat for an 8-sublot subdivision at 468 Harding Road.

• Office building addition at 2420-2430 North Forest Road (SP-1992-44J)
• Rezone 3.61 acres at 1350 Eggert Road from GB-TNB-1 to TI-2.5 (Z-2023-03)
• Snyder mixed-use building: 48 apartments, 2 restaurant spaces, 76 parking spaces (SP-2022-11)
• Final plat for 8-sublot Harding Road subdivision at 468 Harding Road (SUB-2022-01FP)

The Amherst Planning Board approved the Snyder Mixed-Use Building site plan (SP-2022-11) for 4548 & 4564 Main Street, 17 Fruehauf Avenue, and 22 Chateau Terrace, with a 4-2 vote. The project includes a 2½-story building with 48 apartments, two restaurant spaces, and 76 parking spaces. The board also approved the associated design exceptions and issued a Negative Declaration for the project.

• Approved Snyder Mixed-Use Building site plan (4-2)
• Approved design exceptions for building length and tree grates (6-0)
• Approved amended Negative Declaration (4-2)
• Approved office building addition at 2420-2430 North Forest Road (6-0)
• Approved rezoning of 3.61 acres at 1350 Eggert Road from GB-TNB-1 to TI-2.5 (6-0)
• Approved final plat for 8-sublot Harding Road subdivision (6-0)

Recycling and Waste Committee

The Recycling and Waste Committee is meeting to approve minutes, vote on officers, and discuss waste/recycling reports. They will also plan food scrap collections for the Farmers Market, review the status of plastic utensil legislation, and consider a funding request for a web page.

• Vote for Vice Chair and Secretary
• Schedule food scrap collections for Farmers Market
• Discuss wood chips as brown matter at Highway Department site
• Status update on Plastic Utensils Upon Request legislation
• Request for money for committee web page

The Recycling and Waste Committee elected Don Kuhn as Vice Chair by unanimous consent. No substantive decisions were made on legislation or waste programs; the meeting focused on updates, volunteer recruitment, and outreach ideas such as creating flyers with QR codes about town advisory committees.

• Elected Don Kuhn as Vice Chair (unanimous consent)
• Resolved Williamsville Earth Day waiver issue (reported by Eileen Torre)
• Discussed creating volunteer flyer/trifold with QR code for town committees (proposed)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals meets to hear nine appeals requesting area variances or special-use permits. Items include requests to renew an auxiliary housing unit, build accessory structures, install fences and signs, divide a parcel, and establish landlocked lots. No decisions are listed in this agenda; hearings are scheduled for review.

• 1220 New Road – special use permit renewal for auxiliary housing unit
• 555 Casey Road – 1,064 s.f. accessory garage exceeds 792 s.f. limit
• 41 Meadowview Lane – 1,683 s.f. garage exceeds 1,254 s.f. limit
• 90 Pearce Drive – 6 ft fence zero feet from property line vs. 30 ft setback
• 3105-3135 Niagara Falls Boulevard – request to create parcels without road frontage

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals approved a special use permit renewal for an auxiliary housing unit at 1220 New Road, approved an area variance with conditions for a garage at 41 Meadowview Lane (3-2), and approved variances for signs at 2354 Wehrle Drive and a patio awning at 1055 Youngs Road. The board denied a variance to split the parcel at 689 Paradise Road into two 55-foot-wide lots (unanimous), withdrew the Casey Road garage variance, and adjourned two other variance requests to June 13, 2023.

• Approved special use permit renewal for auxiliary housing unit at 1220 New Road (unanimous)
• Approved area variance w/ conditions for garage at 41 Meadowview Lane (3-2)
• Approved area variance for ground sign at 2354 Wehrle Drive (unanimous)
• Approved area variance for patio awning at 1055 Youngs Road (unanimous)
• Denied area variance to split parcel at 689 Paradise Road (unanimous)
• Withdrew area variance for accessory garage at 555 Casey Road
• Adjourned fence variance at 90 Pearce Drive to June 13, 2023 (unanimous)
• Adjourned vehicle use area variance at 3800 Sheridan Drive to June 13, 2023 (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Amherst Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to discuss and decide on several landmark designation applications and a certificate of appropriateness. New business includes a landmark application for 4548 Main Street (Squire Shop) and a certificate for St. Mary's Motherhouse at 400 Mill Street. Old business includes continued review of 22 Chateau Terrace, updates on a CLG grant, a proposed revision to the Historic Preservation Law, and possible landmarking of BNHV properties and St. Paul's & St. Benedict's. The meeting is open to the public and will be video recorded.

• Landmark designation application for 4548 Main Street (Squire Shop)
• Certificate of Appropriateness for St. Mary's Motherhouse at 400 Mill Street
• Continued landmark designation review for 22 Chateau Terrace (Craftsman-style home, Suor & Suor development)
• Update on CLG grant submission and Preservation Day
• Proposal for revision of the Historic Preservation Law of the Town of Amherst

The Amherst Historic Preservation Commission adjourned all three substantive items to its June 6, 2023 meeting. The commission deferred decisions on the landmark designation applications for 4548 Main Street (Squire Shop) and 22 Chateau Terrace, as well as the certificate of appropriateness for the roof replacement at St. Mary's Motherhouse, to allow for further review and information gathering. The commission also approved the minutes from the April 11, 2023 meeting.

• Approved April 11, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Adjourned 4548 Main Street landmark designation to June 6, 2023 (5-0)
• Adjourned St. Mary's Motherhouse roof certificate of appropriateness to June 6, 2023 (5-0)
• Adjourned 22 Chateau Terrace landmark designation to June 6, 2023 (5-0)

Amherst Community Diversity Commission

The Amherst Community Diversity Commission is meeting to discuss several items, including a presentation from APD Chief Chamberlin, approval of the 2023 Diversity Calendar, and the renaming of Audubon Parkway. The commission will also review progress on the Juneteenth Celebration program and receive liaison reports from the School Board and Town Board.

• APD Chief Chamberlin presentation
• Approval of 2023 Diversity Calendar
• Renaming of Audubon Parkway
• Juneteenth Celebration program progress
• Meeting with Amherst Town Supervisor

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a regular meeting with public hearings on parking restrictions, a zoning law amendment, and a $100,000 bond for parking lot maintenance. The board will also consider numerous resolutions, including several bond authorizations for capital improvements, contract awards, and appointments to various boards and committees.

• Resolution 2023-324: Village Pointe Lane parking restrictions (public hearing)
• Resolution 2023-326: Local law amending Chapter 203 to exclude certain public uses (public hearing)
• Resolution 2023-387: Bond resolution for $100,000 for Town Facility Parking Lot Maintenance (WPCF)
• Resolution 2023-392: Bond resolution for $3.2M for Northtown Center Ice Plant Renovations
• Resolution 2023-393: Bond resolution for $825,000 for Transportation Safety and Mobility Projects

The Amherst Town Board approved a $3.2 million bond for the Northtown Center ice plant renovation, funded by a $2 million state grant and general obligation bonds. The board also adopted several other bond resolutions for capital projects, including transportation safety, comprehensive planning, and facility maintenance. A local law to exclude certain public uses from zoning was discussed, with a public hearing continued to May 22.

• Approved $3.2M bond for Northtown Center ice plant renovations (5-0)
• Approved $825,000 bond for transportation safety and mobility projects (5-0)
• Approved $500,000 bond for townwide comprehensive planning projects (5-0)
• Approved $100,000 bond for town facility parking lot maintenance (5-0)
• Approved $100,000 bond for town facility asphalt sealing and striping (5-0)
• Approved $100,000 bond for townwide centralized security (5-0)
• Approved $50,000 bond for APD HQ building improvements (5-0)
• Adopted parking restrictions on Village Pointe Lane as amended (4-1)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session to receive presentations on the 2022 audit and the Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP) plan and consistency law. The board will also discuss agenda items for the upcoming meeting and enter executive session for threatened litigation and an update on the Boulevard Mall pre-purchase agreement.

• Presentation of 2022 Audit by Drescher & Malecki
• Presentation on LWRP Plan and Consistency Law by J. Szatkowski
• Executive session on threatened litigation (land use)
• Executive session update on pre-purchase agreement for Boulevard Mall

Traffic-Safety Board

The Amherst Traffic-Safety Board is meeting to discuss new business, including a request for pedestrian and bicycle improvements on Muegel Road, and to revisit old business regarding wrong-direction travel on Campus Drive near Daemen University. The agenda also includes site plan and rezoning items, such as the Amherst Commerce Center unified development application.

• Muegel Road – pedestrian and bicycle improvements request
• Campus Drive near Daemen University – wrong direction travel (hold item)
• Amherst Commerce Center – SP-2023-03 Unified Development with SP-1983-42J & SP-1996-14D

The Amherst Traffic Safety Board approved a motion supporting installation of sidewalks or a pathway on Muegel Road, referring the matter to the Engineering Department for design study and resident survey, with funding to be determined. The board also received and filed an update on wrong-way travel signage near Daemen University, agreeing to revisit the issue in the fall. Three minor site plans were approved as submitted.

• Approved motion supporting sidewalks/pathway on Muegel Road, referred to Engineering for design and survey (8-0)
• Approved April 12, 2023 meeting minutes (8-0)
• Approved minor site plan for restaurant patio addition at Boulevard Consumers Square (1565-1703)
• Approved minor site plan for warehouse building at 415-455 Lawrence Bell Drive
• Approved minor site plan for multi-family development at 480 Dodge Road
• Received and filed Campus Drive signage update; revisit in fall semester

Amherst Conservation Advisory Council

The Amherst Conservation Advisory Council is reviewing several development proposals and zoning changes, including a Costco site, a warehouse on Lawrence Bell Drive, and rezoning requests on Niagara Falls Boulevard. They are also discussing old business items like the Tree Board survey, open space plan, and potential land donations.

• Costco site lead agency request from Planning Department
• Local Law to Amend Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 203, Section 1-13 – Zoning Immunity, ZTA-2023-01
• Proposed warehouse building at 415-455 Lawrence Bell Drive, SP-1987-17E
• Rezone 14.2 acres from DC-3 to SC at 1501-1551 Niagara Falls Boulevard, Z-2023-04
• Rezone 64.1 acres from CTR-5 to SC at 1565-1703 Niagara Falls Boulevard, Z-2023-05

The council agreed with the Town serving as the lead agency for the Costco site project and recommended enhancing the existing stormwater pond near the I290/I990 interchange. Members reviewed several zoning and site plan proposals, though no formal votes were recorded for those items.

• Agreed with Town being Lead Agency for Costco site
• Recommended biorention design enhancements for stormwater pond by I290/I990 and Ridge Lea Road

Amherst Committee on Disabilities

The committee will review updates on the Squire Project and Firefighter/EMS training. Members will also discuss upcoming 2023 events and a guest speaker for the June meeting.

• Squire Project update
• Firefighter/EMS training update
• 2023 Health Fair and event planning
• June guest speaker Jim Zymanek

The Amherst Committee on Disabilities tabled discussion of the Amherst Square project until updated plans are obtained, after residents raised concerns about accessible parking, a bioretention pond, and garbage totes. The committee also approved April minutes and discussed upcoming events, including a health fair and first responder training. No final decisions were made on the project itself.

• April minutes approved as read (all in favor)
• Amherst Square project discussion tabled pending updated plans (all in favor)
• Motion to adjourn approved (all in favor)

Planning Board

The Amherst Planning Board met on April 20, 2023, to review zoning changes and site plans. No public hearings were held, but the board discussed three rezoning requests and a mixed-use building proposal. The meeting included procedural updates and adjourned without further action on listed items.

• Rezone 0.77± acres from OB to MFR-5 at 2350 Sweet Home Road (Z-2023-01)
• Rezone 0.50± acres from R4 to CTR-5 at 3945 Rensch Road (Z-2023-02)
• Amend rear-window restrictions for 2350 & 2360 Sweet Home Road (Z-2016-16D & Z-2017-11B)
• Proposed Snyder mixed-use building with 48 apartments at 4548 & 4564 Main St, 17 Fruehauf Ave, 22 Chateau Terrace (SP-2022-11)
• Extension request for Gurdwara Cultural Center site plan at 6569 Main Street (SP-2016-04B & SP-2016-04C)

The Amherst Planning Board approved a site plan for the Shatkin School of Dentistry at 2525 Kensington Avenue and a warehouse addition at 80 Creekside Drive. It denied rezoning requests for properties at 2350 Sweet Home Road and a zoning text amendment to exempt the Town from certain zoning requirements. The board also approved a rezoning at 3945 Rensch Road and adjourned the Snyder Mixed-Use Building project pending historic preservation review.

• Approved Shatkin School of Dentistry site plan (SP-2022-02) (7-0)
• Approved 80 Creekside Drive warehouse addition site plan (SP-1987-64A) (7-0)
• Denied rezoning at 2350 Sweet Home Road from OB to MFR-5 (Z-2023-01) (4-3)
• Denied amendment to Declaration of Restrictions at 2350 & 2360 Sweet Home Road (Z-2016-16D & Z-2017-11B) (4-3)
• Approved rezoning at 3945 Rensch Road from R-4 to CTR-5 (Z-2023-02) (7-0)
• Denied zoning text amendment for zoning immunity (ZTA-2023-01) (4-3)
• Adjourned Snyder Mixed-Use Building project (SP-2022-11) pending historic review (6-0)
• Adjourned Gurdwara Cultural Center site plan extension (SP-2016-04B & C) (7-0)

Recycling and Waste Committee

The Town of Amherst Recycling and Waste Committee is meeting to approve minutes, vote on new officers, and discuss waste and recycling reports. Members will also plan food scrap collections for the Farmers Market, coordinate upcoming Earth Day events, and review the status of a plastic utensils legislation and a funding request for a committee web page.

• Vote for Vice Chair and Secretary officer positions
• Food scrap collections/composting scheduling for Farmers Market, including youth/outside volunteers
• Earth Day events: Senior Center April 21 and Williamsville Earth Day June 3
• Education on plastic recycling change by Modern and NYS Compost Awareness Week (May 7-13)
• Status updates on plastic utensils upon request legislation and committee web page funding request

The Recycling and Waste Committee met but made no substantive decisions. Officer elections were delayed again due to lack of quorum, and no updates were provided on plastic utensil legislation or food scrap collection bins. The committee discussed a potential issue with Kranz backing out of a leaf and brush agreement, and noted a USDA grant opportunity for composting programs.

• Officer elections delayed again until May (no quorum)
• No action taken on plastic utensil legislation
• No food scrap collection bin yet at Senior Center; bins to be ensured for Bassett Park Markets
• Town checking liability waivers for Village of Williamsville Earth Day festivities

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals meets to hear eight area-variance appeals from property owners whose proposed projects do not fully comply with setback, signage, or accessory-structure limits in residential zoning districts. No substantive decisions are listed on this agenda; the board will only hear testimony.

• 6728 Main Street – 165-ft LED sign setback vs 500-ft requirement
• 3980 Sheridan Drive – sign-area increase to 1,047.79 s.f. vs 637.3 s.f. prior variance
• 705 Renaissance Drive – 80.5 s.f. wall sign not permitted in residential district
• 41 Meadowview Lane – 1,683 s.f. accessory garage vs 1,254 s.f. maximum
• 181 Brenon Road – 1,749.7 s.f. accessory structures vs 1,242 s.f. maximum

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals approved six area variances for signs, garages, and accessory structures, and adjourned two garage variance requests to the May 16, 2023 meeting. All approvals were unanimous or 4-0 with one abstention. The board also accepted the minutes from the March 14, 2023 meeting.

• Approved LED sign variance at 6728 Main Street (unanimous)
• Approved wall sign variance at 3980 Sheridan Drive (4-0, Shubert abstained)
• Approved wall sign variance at 705 Renaissance Drive (4-0, Shubert abstained)
• Adjourned garage variance at 41 Meadowview Lane to 5/16/2023 (4-0, Shubert recused)
• Approved garage variance at 220 Schoelles Road (unanimous)
• Approved fence and shed variance at 187 Boxelder Lane with conditions (unanimous)
• Adjourned garage variance at 555 Casey Road to 5/16/2023 (unanimous)
• Approved accessory structure variance at 181 Brenon Road (unanimous)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session to receive presentations on a tree inventory by Davey Resource Group and an update on the 2024 Assessment Equity Project. The board will also discuss agenda items for the upcoming meeting and hold an executive session on a claim issue and police arbitration update.

• Tree Inventory Presentation by L. Brockelbank (Davey Resource Group)
• Update on 2024 Assessment Equity Project by E. Murphy & C. Erzkus
• Executive session on Notice of intention to File Claim issue
• Executive session on Police Arbitration update

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a regular meeting with several public hearings, including a $950,000 bond for waterline replacements on Bauman, Robinhill, and Swanson, a local law to exclude certain public uses from Chapter 203, and parking restrictions on Village Pointe Lane. The board will also consider numerous resolutions for capital projects, contracts, appointments, and settlements, along with public comment periods.

• Resolution 2023-325: $950,000 bond for 2023 waterline replacements (Bauman/Robinhill/Swanson)
• Resolution 2023-326: Local law amending Chapter 203 to exclude certain public uses
• Resolution 2023-324: Village Pointe Lane parking restrictions
• Resolution 2023-329-333: Bonds for facilities vehicle/equipment ($200K), park improvements ($200K), road striping ($100K), parking lot maintenance ($100K), WPCF parking lot ($100K)
• Resolution 2023-335: Join national opioid settlements with pharmacies

The Amherst Town Board held public hearings on parking restrictions, waterline replacements, and a zoning law amendment, and adopted a $950,000 bond resolution for waterline replacements on Bauman, Robinhill, and Swanson. The board also approved a consent agenda with numerous contracts, appointments, and budget transfers, and referred several communications to staff for review.

• Adopted $950,000 bond for waterline replacements (5-0)
• Held public hearing on Village Pointe Lane parking restrictions, kept open (4-1)
• Held public hearing on zoning law to exclude certain public uses, kept open (5-0)
• Adopted $110,000 bond for facilities vehicle and equipment (5-0)
• Adopted $200,000 bond for townwide park improvements (5-0)
• Adopted $100,000 bond for townwide road striping (5-0)
• Adopted $100,000 bond for town facility parking lot maintenance (5-0)
• Adopted as amended resolution to join opioid settlements with pharmacies (5-0)

Traffic-Safety Board

The Amherst Traffic-Safety Board is meeting to discuss and decide on several traffic safety items, including pedestrian safety on Main Street near I-290, speeding on Lynette Lane, and requests for left-turn arrows at two intersections. The board will also review a proposed multifamily project at 480 Dodge Road and a development at Amherst Commerce Center. One item, a parking restriction on Joliet Lane, has been withdrawn.

• Main Street near I-290: pedestrian safety and snow removal
• Dodge Rd. & Casey Rd.: request for westbound left turn arrow
• N. French Rd. & Dodge Rd.: request for westbound left turn arrow
• Niagara Falls Blvd. & North French Rd.: request for traffic signal
• 480 Dodge Road: proposed multifamily project

The board recommended a roundabout for Sunset Court based on resident survey results. Several requests for new traffic signals or turn arrows were denied or referred to NYSDOT for review. A major site plan for a commerce center on Ridge Lea Road and Meyer Road was denied.

• Referred Sunset Court roundabout option to Town Board (6-1)
• Denied major site plan for proposed commerce center at Ridge Lea Road and Meyer Road
• Denied request for westbound left turn arrow at Dodge Rd. & Casey Road (7-0)
• Denied request for westbound left turn arrow at North French Road & Dodge Road (7-0)
• Referred Niagara Falls Blvd. & North French Road signal request to NYSDOT (7-0)
• Referred Sheridan Drive safety concerns and median suggestions to NYSDOT
• Approved March 1, 2023 meeting minutes as corrected (7-0)

Senior Services Advisory Board

The Senior Services Advisory Board meets to introduce new members, discuss board structure and bylaws updates, review the mission statement, and receive reports from the senior center, youth and recreation, and town liaison. The board also begins exploring national accreditation for the senior center.

• Introduction of new board members Jim Bardot, Julie Whitbeck-Lewinski, and Rev. Susan Frawley
• Discussion on updating the board's bylaws and reviewing the current mission statement
• Senior Center Report by Melissa Abel
• Exploration of National Institute of Senior Centers Accreditation

The Senior Services Advisory Board agreed to form ad hoc committees to discuss changes to board structure, by-laws, and a potential mission statement. The board also discussed shifting from a reporting format to more active issue-based discussions. No final votes on these structural changes were taken during this meeting.

• Agreed to form ad hoc committee for by-law changes (includes Jim Bardot, Rev. Frawley)
• Agreed to form ad hoc committee for mission statement (includes Julie Whitbeck-Lewinski)
• February minutes not approved due to lack of quorum
• Discussed moving to active issue-based discussions rather than reporting format
• Consensus reached that late afternoon meetings are preferred over evening meetings

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will review and discuss the landmark designation application for 22 Chateau Terrace, which was previously presented and adjourned for further research. They will also receive updates on a CLG grant, a proposed revision to the town's historic preservation law, and possible landmarking of other properties. The meeting is a regular business session with roll call, minutes approval, and old business items.

• 22 Chateau Terrace landmark designation application (continued from March 21, 2023)
• Update on CLG grant submission and Preservation Day (Zoom training April 26, 6-8pm)
• Proposal for revision of Town of Amherst Historic Preservation Law (draft sent to SHPO)
• Update on BNHV properties research for possible landmarking (no update)
• Possible landmarking of St. Pauls and St. Benedicts (call with SHPO planned)

The Commission approved the March 21, 2023 meeting minutes. A landmark designation application for 22 Chateau Terrace was adjourned to May 9, 2023, to allow for further research and a potential presentation by the property owner.

• Approved March 21, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Adjourned landmark designation application for 22 Chateau Terrace to 5/9/2023

Recreation Commission

The Amherst Recreation Commission is meeting to approve minutes, hear a presentation on pickleball, and receive reports on youth programs, facilities, and various sports liaisons. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major decisions or proposals listed.

• Presentation on pickleball by Jon Brown
• Approval of March 2023 minutes
• Reports from youth and recreation, facilities, and chairperson
• Liaison reports for sports including golf, ice hockey, and racquet sports

Amherst Committee on Disabilities

The Amherst Committee on Disabilities meets to hear from the police chief about accessibility measures, including emergency phones on the bike path and playgrounds, and updates on the Squire Project and upcoming events.

• Emergency phones on Amherst Bike Path
• VRI for Deaf/hard of hearing residents during traffic stops
• Squire Project update
• Events for 2023 including Health Fair
• Disability Awareness Training

The Committee on Disabilities approved the March 2023 minutes and discussed police training and bike path emergency phones. The committee voted to request further clarification from the Planning Board and Benderson Development regarding the Squire Project's parking, waste management, and bio-retention pond.

• Approved March 2023 minutes as amended
• Voted to seek further clarification from Planning Board and Benderson regarding Squire Project totes, bioretention pond, and accessible parking spaces

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will consider a Certificate of Appropriateness for a full roof replacement at St. Mary's Apartments, 400 Mill Street, which began in November 2022 but was stopped by the town in January 2023. The commission will also review a landmark designation application for 22 Chateau Terrace and discuss other preservation matters. The agenda includes several items that are updates or discussions, such as a CLG grant submission and a proposal to revise the town's historic preservation law.

• Certificate of Appropriateness for full roof replacement at St. Mary's Apartments, 400 Mill Street (asphalt replacing slate)
• Landmark designation application for 22 Chateau Terrace
• Discussion of Harlem Road Community Center plaque
• Update on CLG grant submission and Preservation Day
• Proposal for revision of Town of Amherst Historic Preservation Law

The Amherst Historic Preservation Commission denied a Certificate of Appropriateness for replacing the slate roof at St. Mary's Apartments, 400 Mill Street, with an architectural asphalt shingle roof. The commission also voted unanimously to request the Town Board require restoration of the property under Town Code Section 121-14(c). The commission approved the February 21, 2023 minutes and tabled a landmark designation application for 22 Chateau Terrace for further review.

• Denied Certificate of Appropriateness for asphalt roof replacement at St. Mary's Apartments (6-0)
• Requested Town Board action to require restoration of St. Mary's property per Town Code §121-14(c) (6-0)
• Approved February 21, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0, Palmer abstaining)
• Adjourned landmark designation application for 22 Chateau Terrace for further review (6-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a regular meeting with public hearings on removing a deed restriction and rezoning a portion of 800 New Road. The board will also consider several bond resolutions for capital projects, including bike path reconstruction, tree planting, and waterline replacements, along with numerous contracts, appointments, and settlements.

• Public hearing and SEQR determination for removal of deed restriction at 800 New Road (Z-1984-26_A)
• Public hearing and SEQR determination for rezoning of 800 New Road (Z-2022-12)
• Bond resolution for $200,000 for reconstruction of town bike paths
• Bond resolution for $200,000 for townwide tree planting and restoration
• Request for public hearing for $950,000 bond for 2023 waterline replacements

The Amherst Town Board unanimously approved a series of resolutions to rezone a portion of 800 New Road from General Business (GB) to Suburban Agriculture (SA) and to remove a deed restriction limiting the property to nursery or landscaping use, paving the way for a proposed Tier III Solar Array. The board also authorized $200,000 in bonds for bike path reconstruction and $200,000 for townwide tree planting, and approved numerous contracts, appointments, and settlements.

• Adopted Local Law to remove deed restriction at 800 New Road (5-0)
• Adopted Local Law to rezone 800 New Road from GB to SA (5-0)
• Issued SEQR Negative Declarations for both 800 New Road actions (5-0)
• Authorized $200,000 bond for Town Bike Paths reconstruction (5-0)
• Authorized $200,000 bond for Townwide Tree Planting (5-0)
• Approved settlement of HAH Holdings tax assessment case (5-0)
• Approved settlement of 2900 Commerce Parkway tax assessment case (5-0)
• Approved settlement of 6333 Associates tax assessment case (5-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session to receive an update on the 2024 Assessment Equity Project and to present a Fair Housing Month proclamation. The board will also discuss agenda items for the upcoming Town Board meeting and enter executive session for arbitration updates and proposed contract terms with Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village.

• Update on 2024 Assessment Equity Project
• Presentation of Fair Housing Month Proclamation
• Executive session: Arbitration update
• Executive session: Proposed contract terms with Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village

Planning Board

The Amherst Planning Board is holding a public hearing on a sketch plan for a 26-lot subdivision at 10060 Transit Road, submitted by DJC Land Inc. No other public hearings are scheduled. The board will also address unfinished business, director's report, and minutes approval.

• Public hearing for proposed 26-lot subdivision, SUB-2022-02SK, at 10060 Transit Road
• Petitioner: DJC Land Inc.
• No site plans, rezonings, or miscellaneous items on the agenda
• Public work session at 6:00 pm before the 6:30 pm meeting

The Amherst Planning Board approved a sketch plan for a 26-lot single-family subdivision at 10060 Transit Road, proposed by DJC Land Inc. The motion was approved unanimously (6-0, with one member absent). The board also approved the minutes from the February 16, 2023 meeting.

• Approved sketch plan for 26-lot subdivision at 10060 Transit Road (6-0)
• Approved minutes of February 16, 2023 meeting (6-0)

Recycling and Waste Committee

The Recycling and Waste Committee is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes and electing officers. They will also discuss updates on food scrap composting, a plastic utensils legislation status, a request for web page funding, and changes to the Sunking electronics collection contract. The committee will also consider how to inform residents about changes to recyclable materials, specifically #5 tubs and snap-on lids.

• Vote for Vice Chair and Secretary
• Status on Plastic Utensils Upon Request legislation
• Request for money for committee web page
• Sunking contract changes to electronics collections
• Outreach on recyclable materials change (#5 tubs, snap-on lids)

The Recycling and Waste Committee met but made no substantive decisions. Elections for Vice Chair and Secretary were delayed again due to lack of quorum, and no updates were available on several pending items, including plastic utensil legislation and a food scrap bin at the Senior Center. The committee discussed publicizing recycling changes and noted upcoming events, but took no formal votes.

• Elections for Vice Chair and Secretary delayed until April (no quorum)
• No action on Plastic Utensils legislation (no update)
• No food scrap collection bin at Senior Center yet; research ongoing
• No update on committee web page proposal
• Town stopped advertising TV acceptance; flat screens still accepted

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a regular meeting on March 14, 2023, to hear three appeals: a special use permit request for an auxiliary housing unit at 275 Hopkins Rd, and area variance requests at 409 Rosedale Boulevard and 2075 Niagara Falls Boulevard. The board will also approve minutes from its February 14, 2023 meeting.

• Special use permit for auxiliary housing unit at 275 Hopkins Rd
• Area variance at 409 Rosedale Boulevard for building additions (4 ft from south line, 22 ft from north line, 3 ft from garage)
• Area variance at 2075 Niagara Falls Boulevard for LED sign (260 ft from residential district, required 500 ft)

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals approved all three applications on its agenda. It granted a special use permit for an auxiliary housing unit at 275 Hopkins Rd, an area variance for a building addition at 409 Rosedale Blvd, and an area variance with conditions for an LED sign at 2075 Niagara Falls Blvd. All votes were unanimous (4-0), with member Ronald Shubert absent.

• Approved special use permit for auxiliary housing unit at 275 Hopkins Rd (unanimous)
• Approved area variance for building addition at 409 Rosedale Blvd (unanimous)
• Approved area variance with condition to remove existing ground sign for LED sign at 2075 Niagara Falls Blvd (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of February 14, 2023 meeting (3-0, with one abstention)

Amherst Community Diversity Commission

The Amherst Community Diversity Commission will hold its March 2023 meeting to elect officers for the year, approve minutes from November 2022, and finalize its 2023 event calendar. The commission will also review past and future events, receive reports from Town and School Board liaisons, and discuss new and old business.

• Election of 2023 officers
• Final review of 2023 Diversity Commission Calendar
• Planning events for 2023

The commission unanimously approved holding the Juneteenth celebration on Thursday, June 13, 2023, at the Amherst Senior Center, pending confirmation from event lead Cynthia Bass. Officers were elected for 2023, and the 2023 Diversity Calendar was approved. The meeting also included reports on library displays and school district DEI committees.

• Elected Dr. Mohan Devgun as Chairperson (unanimous)
• Elected Gul A. Rahman as Vice Chairperson (unanimous)
• Elected Zhen Liu as Secretary (unanimous)
• Approved November 14, 2022 minutes and February 14, 2023 unofficial notes (unanimous, Melissa Abel abstained)
• Approved Juneteenth celebration date of Thursday, June 13, 2023, pending Cynthia Bass's approval (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 Diversity Commission Calendar (unanimous)

Amherst Committee on Disabilities

The Amherst Committee on Disabilities is meeting to discuss old and new business, including updates on a playground, firefighter/EMS training, and emergency phones on the bike path. They will also consider a social media policy, 2023 events, and the Willow Ridge–Parkview Action Plan. The meeting is held via Zoom.

• Social media policy discussion
• Playground update
• Firefighter/EMS training update
• Emergency phones on bike path
• Willow Ridge – Parkview Action Plan

The committee heard detailed accessibility concerns from residents about the proposed Amherst Square project on Main Street, including sidewalk, parking, fire safety, and bio-retention pond issues. Members voted to send an email to the Planning Board with these concerns before their March 16 meeting. The committee also approved its 2022 Annual Report for presentation to the Town Board and approved sending a list of topics to the police chief for the April meeting.

• Approved February 2023 minutes as read
• Approved sending 2022 Annual Report to Town Board (all in favor)
• Approved motion to email Dan Howard with Amherst Square accessibility concerns for Planning Board (all in favor)
• Approved sending 5 agenda topics to Police Chief for April meeting (all in favor)
• Approved motion to allow Amanda Casali to finish her presentation (all in favor)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session to discuss an update from the Association of Towns, review items for the upcoming board meeting, and enter executive session for an arbitration update. No formal decisions are listed on this agenda.

• Association of Towns update (15 min.)
• Board meeting agenda items review
• Executive session: arbitration update

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a regular meeting with two public hearings: one on a $1.5 million bond for miscellaneous sanitary sewer projects and another on a rezoning and relief of restrictions at 800 New Road. The board will also consider numerous resolutions, including bond authorizations for road and waterline improvements, various contracts, and appointments to town boards and committees.

• Public hearing: Resolution 2023-221, $1.5M bond for miscellaneous sanitary sewer projects
• Public hearing: Resolution 2023-222, 800 New Road rezoning & relief of restrictions
• Resolution 2023-224: $2M bond for town road pavement improvements
• Resolution 2023-225: $400,000 bond for Casey Road pedestrian and bicycle safety improvements (Phase 2)
• Resolution 2023-227: $950,000 bond for 2023 waterline replacements (public hearing to be scheduled)

The Town Board authorized several bond resolutions for infrastructure, including road pavement improvements and sanitary sewer repairs. The board also approved various service contracts, personnel appointments, and a settlement of $60,000 in a litigation matter.

• Approved $1.5M bond for miscellaneous sanitary sewer projects (5-0)
• Approved $2M bond for town-wide road pavement improvements (5-0)
• Approved $400,000 bond for Casey Road pedestrian and bicycle safety improvements (5-0)
• Approved $440,000 bond for Highway Department gas pump repairs (5-0)
• Approved $60,000 settlement for Shwani v. Town of Amherst, et al. (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for demolition of 88 Smallwood Drive for May 22, 2023 (5-0)
• Approved $1.85M interfund loan from General Fund to Capital Fund for Amherst Central Park (5-0)
• Tabled decision on 800 New Road rezoning to March 20, 2023 (5-0)

Traffic-Safety Board

The Amherst Traffic-Safety Board is meeting to discuss and decide on several traffic-related items. New business includes traffic congestion on Paradise Road near Williamsville East High School, wrong-direction travel on Campus Drive near Daemen University, and final comments on the Willow Ridge & Parkview Draft Action Plan. Old business includes a review of a roundabout concept for Sunset Court. The board will also consider a proposed 26-sublot subdivision at 10060 Transit Road and an office building addition at 2420-2430 North Forest Road.

• Paradise Road at Williamsville East High School – traffic congestion discussion
• Campus Drive near Daemen University – wrong direction travel discussion
• Willow Ridge & Parkview Draft Action Plan – final comments
• Sunset Court – review roundabout concept
• 10060 Transit Road – proposed 26-sublot subdivision 'Ashley Green'

The Amherst Traffic Safety Board approved new traffic signage for Campus Drive and voted to seek the resignation of a board member due to attendance. The board also reviewed several site plan applications, approving three and denying one subdivision sketch plan. Other items, including traffic congestion at Williamsville East High School and a roundabout concept for Sunset Court, were discussed or tabled for future meetings.

• Approved double 'Do Not Enter' signs at Eton/Campus Drive (4-3)
• Approved additional one-way signage at Eton/Campus Drive (7-0)
• Approved seeking board member resignation for attendance (4-2-1)
• Approved major site plan for 80 Creekside Drive
• Approved major site plan for 2420-2430 North Forest Road with conditions
• Approved amended sign plan for 8150-8250 Transit Road
• Denied sketch plan for 10060 Transit Road (Ashley Green)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Amherst Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to review several historic preservation matters. New business includes a demolition request for 88 Smallwood Drive, a certificate of appropriateness for St. Mary's Motherhouse at 400 Mill Street, and a revised 2023 calendar. Old business covers updates on a grant submission, a proposed revision to the town's historic preservation law, and possible landmarking of several properties.

• 88 Smallwood Drive - demolition approval request
• St. Mary's Motherhouse, 400 Mill Street - certificate of appropriateness
• Proposal for revision of Town of Amherst Historic Preservation Law
• Update on CLG grant submission and Preservation Day
• Possible landmarking of BNHV properties and St. Pauls & St. Benedicts

The Historic Preservation Commission unanimously approved the demolition of 88 Smallwood Drive, a vacant and structurally compromised 1937 home, citing health and safety concerns and the high cost of rehabilitation. The Commission deferred a decision on the Certificate of Appropriateness for the full roof replacement at St. Mary's Apartments (400 Mill Street) to the March 21 meeting, requesting additional documentation and a site visit. The Commission also approved the June 6 meeting date and the January 10, 2023 minutes.

• Approved demolition application for 88 Smallwood Drive (5-0)
• Adjourned St. Mary's Motherhouse roof replacement decision to March 21 meeting (5-0)
• Approved June 6, 2023 meeting date for calendar revision (5-0)
• Approved January 10, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)

Planning Board

The Amherst Planning Board will hold public hearings on six development proposals, including mixed-use buildings, multi-family residential developments, a parking lot, and a subdivision. No rezoning or miscellaneous items are on the agenda. The board will also receive a director's report and approve minutes.

• Proposed Snyder mixed-use building at 4548 & 4564 Main Street, 17 Fruehauf Avenue, 22 Chateau Terrace (Benderson Development)
• Multi-family residential development at 50 Crosspoint Parkway (Uniland Development Co.)
• Mixed-use development at 4300 Millersport Highway (Cimato Enterprises LLC)
• 67-space parking lot for Daemen University at 4380 Main Street
• Preliminary plat for 19-lot subdivision at 166 Klein Road (Regency Builders LLC)

Recycling and Waste Committee

The Recycling and Waste Committee is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes, membership updates, and officer elections. They will also receive reports on waste and recycling, discuss food scrap composting, and get updates on the plastic utensils upon request legislation, a web page funding request, and the Sunking electronics collection contract.

• Vote for Vice Chair and Secretary
• Update on Modern Recycling list
• Food scrap collections/composting discussion
• Status of plastic utensils upon request legislation
• Sunking contract changes to electronics collections

The Recycling and Waste Committee met and handled administrative items. Elections for Vice Chair and Secretary were postponed to March due to low attendance. The committee reaffirmed its January decision to proceed with the originally approved website proposal, despite a suggestion to cut costs by sharing a generic page.

• Delayed elections for Vice Chair and Secretary until March
• Reaffirmed January approval of website proposal, rejecting shared generic page option

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals will hold its regular meeting to approve minutes from January 24, 2023, and conduct a public hearing on a requested area variance for a property at 16 Rockford Place. The board will also adjourn to the next meeting.

• Hearing on area variance request at 16 Rockford Place (electrical generator 1.5 feet from east property line)
• Approval of minutes from January 24, 2023 meeting

The Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously approved an area variance for a proposed electrical standby generator at 16 Rockford Place, allowing it to be 1.5 feet from the east property line instead of the required 3 feet. The board found the variance not substantial and without adverse impact. The minutes of the January 24, 2023 meeting were also accepted unanimously.

• Approved area variance for generator at 16 Rockford Place (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes of January 24, 2023 meeting (unanimous)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a regular meeting with public hearings on a tax law amendment and several zoning map changes, including properties on Maple Road, Ridge Lea Road, and Sheridan Drive. The board will also consider bond resolutions for Royal Park improvements ($7.16M) and the purchase/reconstruction of 30 S. Cayuga ($1.5M), along with numerous contracts, appointments, and settlements of Article 7 tax certiorari matters.

• Public hearing: Local Law Amending Chapter 175 - Taxation
• Zoning map amendments: 1720, 1740, 1760 Maple Road; 4150-4252 Ridge Lea Road and Meyer Road; 4110-4120 Sheridan Drive
• Bond resolution: Royal Park Improvements - $7,160,000
• Bond resolution: Purchase and Reconstruction of 30 S. Cayuga - $1.5M
• Settlements of 10 Article 7 tax certiorari matters

The Amherst Town Board approved a $7,160,000 bond resolution for Royal Park improvements, which will include a synthetic turf field, stadium lighting, tennis courts, and other amenities. The board also adopted several zoning changes, including rezoning properties on Maple Road, Ridge Lea Road, and Sheridan Drive, and approved a $1.5M bond for the purchase and reconstruction of 30 S. Cayuga Road. Numerous contracts, appointments, and budget transfers were approved as part of the consent agenda.

• Approved $7,160,000 bond for Royal Park improvements (5-0)
• Approved $1,500,000 bond for purchase/reconstruction of 30 S. Cayuga Rd (5-0)
• Adopted rezoning at 1720-1760 Maple Rd to DC-5 (4-1)
• Adopted rezoning at Ridge Lea/Meyer Rd to SC (5-0)
• Adopted rezoning at 4110-4120 Sheridan Dr to DC-5 (4-1)
• Adopted local law amending Chapter 175 for firefighter/ambulance tax exemption (5-0)
• Approved $1.5M bond for sanitary sewer projects, set public hearing for March 6 (5-0)
• Adopted 2023 CDBG/HOME Annual Action Plan (5-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding a work session to discuss agenda items, including an executive session covering a litigation settlement, a litigation appeal update, and a right-of-way permit. No formal decisions are expected during this session.

• Executive session on litigation settlement
• Executive session on litigation appeal update
• Executive session on right-of-way permit

Senior Services Advisory Board

The Amherst Senior Services Advisory Board is meeting to approve minutes from its September 2022 meeting and receive reports from the Senior Services Director, the Youth & Recreation Executive Director, and the Town Board liaison. Board members will also provide updates from their organizations. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Approval of minutes from September 14, 2022 meeting
• Report from Melissa Abel, Director, Amherst Senior Services
• Report from Mary-Diana Pouli, Executive Director, Youth & Recreation Department
• Update from Deborah Bruch-Bucki, Councilmember and liaison to Senior Services

The Senior Services Advisory Board held a meeting on February 8, 2023, where members approved the September meeting minutes. The board received updates from the Senior Services Director regarding staffing changes, facility projects, and program expansions, as well as reports from youth, recreation, police, and council representatives.

• Approved September minutes

Amherst Committee on Disabilities

The committee voted to approve its social media policy and request permission to establish a Facebook page, to be submitted to the Town Board for approval. It also voted to keep emergency phones on bike paths on its agenda and to invite the Amherst Police Department Chief to a future meeting. The firefighter training was postponed due to low sign-ups.

• Approved social media policy and request to establish Facebook page (all in favor)
• Motion to keep emergency phones on bike path topic on agenda (all in favor)
• Motion to invite Amherst Police Department Chief to committee meeting (all in favor)
• Motion to explore Willow Ridge National Night Out (all in favor)

Traffic-Safety Board

The Amherst Traffic Safety Board approved the major site plan for the proposed Snyder Mixed Use Building at 4548 & 4564 Main Street with conditions, including NYSDOT approval for bulb-outs at Fruehauf Avenue. The board also approved a sketch plan for the Ashley Green subdivision with conditions, and referred several traffic safety items to other departments for review. A motion to conduct a parking study for the Snyder project was defeated 5-3.

• Approved major site plan for Snyder Mixed Use Building with conditions (8-0)
• Approved sketch plan for Ashley Green subdivision with conditions (8-0)
• Denied parking study for Snyder project (5-3 against)
• Referred Sweet Home Road/Emerson Drive signal review to August 2023
• Referred South Ellicott Creek Road signage review to Engineering and Highway Department (8-0)
• Referred N. French Road striping concerns to ECDPW
• Approved changing April meeting date to April 12 (8-0)
• Held Sunset Court roundabout concept pending resident survey (8-0)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board unanimously approved resolutions to proceed with acquiring approximately 62 acres (9 tax parcels) of the Boulevard Mall and surrounding properties via eminent domain to implement the Boulevard Central District Urban Renewal Plan. The board also issued a negative declaration under SEQRA, determining no significant environmental impacts and no supplemental environmental impact statement is needed. Additionally, the board scheduled a public hearing for a local law amending Chapter 175 (Taxation) and authorized a pre-apprenticeship training program agreement with the Buffalo and Niagara County Building and Construction Trades Council.

• Adopted Resolution 2023-124: SEQR negative declaration for Boulevard Central District acquisition (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2023-125: Determination and findings for eminent domain acquisition of Boulevard Mall parcels (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2023-126: Scheduled public hearing for Feb 13, 2023 on local law amending Chapter 175 (Taxation) (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2023-127: Authorized pre-apprenticeship training program agreement with Building and Construction Trades Council (5-0)

Planning Board

The Amherst Planning Board unanimously approved two requests by Sol Source Power, Inc. for property at 800 New Road: a rezoning of 3.4 acres from General Business (GB) to Suburban Agricultural (SA), and the removal of a 1984 deed restriction limiting the land to nursery and landscaping use. Both approvals were 7-0. The board also adjourned a preliminary plat for a 19-lot subdivision at 166 Klein Road to a future meeting.

• Approved rezoning of 3.4 acres at 800 New Road from GB to SA (7-0)
• Approved removal of 1984 deed restriction limiting use to nursery/landscaping at 800 New Road (7-0)
• Adjourned preliminary plat for 19-lot subdivision at 166 Klein Road to 2/16/2023 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of November 17, 2022 meeting (6-0, 1 abstention)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Amherst Zoning Board of Appeals approved an area variance for a residential addition at 36 Dawnbrook Lane, approved an open development area and SEQR negative declaration for a subdivision at 166 Klein Road, and denied a lot-split area variance for 18 Richfield Road. The board also accepted the amended minutes from the December 20, 2022 meeting.

• Approved amended minutes from December 20, 2022 (Unanimous)
• Approved area variance for setback at 36 Dawnbrook Lane (Unanimous)
• Approved open development area for 166 Klein Road (Unanimous)
• Adopted SEQR determination for 166 Klein Road (Unanimous)
• Denied area variance for lot split at 18 Richfield Road (4-1)

Recycling and Waste Committee

The Recycling and Waste Committee approved a motion to request town board funding for a new standalone website ($2,700 development plus $215 annual fees). They also reviewed the Modern contract with a 2.5% cost increase and 75¢/ton tipping fee hike, and noted that garbage must be in town-issued totes after June 1. Elections for vice chair and secretary were delayed to February; John Szalasny was elected chair for 2023.

• Approved motion to ask town board for website funds ($2,700 + $215/yr) (unanimous)
• Elected John Szalasny as chair for 2023
• Delayed vice chair and secretary elections to February
• Noted Modern contract: 2.5% cost increase, 75¢/ton tipping fee increase
• Noted garbage must be in town-issued totes after June 1 (soft rollout)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is meeting for a work session on January 17, 2023, at 4:00 PM. The agenda contains only the pledge of allegiance and a placeholder for board meeting items, with no specific topics, decisions, or discussions listed. This appears to be a procedural or preliminary meeting.

Traffic-Safety Board

The Amherst Traffic-Safety Board is meeting to discuss new business items and review site plans and rezoning requests. The board will consider traffic control at Ruth & Marion, speeding and pedestrian safety near 147 Sunset Court, and elect officers. Site plan reviews include a 67-space parking lot at 4380 Main Street, a 26-lot subdivision at 10060 Transit Road, and a site modification at 1501-1551 Niagara Falls Blvd.

• Traffic control review at Ruth & Marion
• Speeding and pedestrian safety concerns near 147 Sunset Court
• Election of officers
• Proposed 67-space parking lot addition at 4380 Main Street
• Proposed 26-lot subdivision 'Ashley Green' at 10060 Transit Road

The Traffic Safety Board approved a 4-3 motion to recommend 'Cross Traffic Does Not Stop' sub-plaques at the Ruth Avenue and Marion Road intersection, though the Highway Superintendent retains final authority. The Board denied a proposed site modification at 1501-1551 Niagara Falls Blvd due to unsafe crossing conditions. Additionally, the Board approved site plans for Daemen University and the Ashley Green subdivision with specific conditions, and elected Eric Fraas as Chairman and Greg Dionne as Vice Chairman.

• Approved 'Cross Traffic Does Not Stop' sub-plaques for Ruth/Marion and Lenore/Ruth intersections (4-3)
• Denied proposed site modification at 1501-1551 Niagara Falls Blvd
• Approved Daemen University parking lot addition at 4380 Main Street with conditions
• Approved Ashley Green subdivision sketch plan at 10060 Transit Road with conditions
• Approved request for traffic counts and safety concept for Sunset Court (7-0)
• Elected Eric Fraas as Chairman (7-0)
• Elected Greg Dionne as Vice Chairman (7-0)
• Approved December 7, 2022 minutes (7-0)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Amherst Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to discuss administrative items including the 2023 calendar, membership, and working groups, as well as old business such as a proposed revision of the town's historic preservation law and updates on possible landmarking of BNHV properties and St. Paul's & St. Benedict's. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific project applications or public hearings listed.

• Proposal for revision of the Town of Amherst Historic Preservation Law
• Update on CLG grant submission and Preservation Day
• BNHV properties - update on research for possible landmarking
• St. Paul's & St. Benedict's - possible landmark
• Education plan - website and presentations

The Commission approved the December 2022 meeting minutes and entered an executive session to review applications for a vacant seat. Members decided to interview candidates during an executive session on March 21. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved December 13, 2022 minutes (6-0)
• Approved motion to enter executive session to review vacant seat applications (6-0)
• Decided to interview candidates for vacant seat on March 21
• Approved motion to resume regular meeting (6-0)

Amherst Committee on Disabilities

The Amherst Committee on Disabilities is meeting to discuss accessibility issues, including an accessible playground, social media policy, firefighter/EMS training, and winter sidewalk maintenance. They will also address snow and emergency preparedness. The meeting includes routine items like approving minutes and welcoming a potential new member.

• Discussion of accessible playground with Town Architect Anne Dafchik
• Review of social media policy
• Update on firefighter/EMS training
• Winter sidewalk maintenance discussion
• Snow and emergency preparedness planning

The Amherst Committee on Disabilities approved forwarding an updated social media policy to IT and the Town Attorney, and elected Erica Rodman as Chair, David Wantuck as Co-Chair, and Rachel Martin as Secretary. The committee also discussed accessibility upgrades at town facilities and planned firefighter/EMS trainings.

• Approved forwarding updated social media policy to IT/Town Attorney (all in favor)
• Elected Erica Rodman as Chair (all in favor)
• Elected David Wantuck as Co-Chair (all in favor)
• Elected Rachel Martin as Secretary (all in favor)

Town Board

The Amherst Town Board is holding its annual organizational meeting to set 2023 salaries, appoint officials, and approve routine contracts. The agenda includes resolutions for town attorney, energy manager, and various board appointments, as well as awarding bids for services like steel, sweeper parts, and waste disposal. No public hearings are scheduled.

• Resolution 2023-16: Set salaries for town employees and civil service employees 2023
• Resolution 2023-17: Set salaries for exempt employees 2023
• Resolution 2023-18: Set salaries for department heads and assistant department heads 2023
• Resolution 2023-45: Award Bid #2022032 - Steel and Aluminum
• Resolution 2023-50: Extend contract with Modern Disposal Services, Inc. for municipal solid waste services

The Amherst Town Board held its annual organizational meeting, unanimously approving a series of resolutions to set up the town for 2023. This included appointing officials, setting salaries and meeting dates, and approving various contracts and personnel changes. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved appointments of Town Attorney, Deputy Attorneys, and Town Prosecutor (5-0)
• Approved 2023 salaries for town, civil service, exempt, and department head employees (5-0)
• Approved 5-year extension of municipal solid waste contract with Modern Disposal Services (5-0)
• Approved $86,878.30 annual licensing/support agreement with Tyler Technologies for MUNIS (5-0)
• Approved award of RFP for State & Federal Government Relations Services to Masiello Martucci & Associates (5-0)
• Approved appointment of three new Police Officers at $65,246 annual salary (5-0)
• Approved 2023 IRS standard mileage rate of $0.655 per mile (5-0)
• Referred five notices of claim and a summons/complaint to the Town Attorney (5-0)