Accountability posts

Here's what happened at the Amherst Board of Selectmen meeting on September 16, 2024 — and what residents should be following up on.

🚦 TRAFFIC CALMING PETITION DEFERRED: Resident Doug Chavinsky delivered a petition signed by 57 Amherst residents asking the board to authorize funding for a temporary rubber speed table pilot program in the village. The goal was simple: gather objective data on whether speed tables actually work before making a permanent decision. The board did not authorize funding or commit to a pilot. The matter was deferred to the Highway Safety Committee with no stated deadline. Fifty-seven signatures, and no direct commitment in return.

🚛 MERRIMACK ROAD TRUCKING ORDINANCE HEADED FOR REPEAL: The board reached unanimous consensus to move forward with two public hearings on repealing the existing ordinance that prohibits through-truck traffic on Merrimack Road. The recommendation came from the Highway Safety Committee, which cited a lack of data supporting the restriction. Residents who live on or near Merrimack Road — and who likely supported that ordinance as a safety and quality-of-life measure — will need to show up at those public hearings to make their voices heard before the ordinance is gone. Watch for hearing dates to be announced.

🌿 LUCK FUND REDISTRIBUTION PROPOSED: The Bicycle Pedestrian Committee proposed a warrant article that would permanently redirect 25% of the Luck Fund away from the Conservation Commission and toward bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure projects. The Conservation Commission was not represented in the discussion. The board sent the proposal to Ways and Means and directed the two committees to work it out — but this is a real funding fight between community priorities, and it will eventually come to a public vote.

🏊 BABOOSIC LAKE PUBLIC HEALTH CONCERN: The Recreation Department flagged ongoing cyanobacteria (harmful algal bloom) problems at Baboosic Lake Town Beach — a genuine public health risk for swimmers and families. The department's request for a capital reserve fund warrant article was noted, but no immediate remediation action was authorized. If your family uses Baboosic Lake, this one deserves your attention.

✅ ONE CLEAR WIN: Amherst confirmed receipt of a $2,115,840 federal grant for the Village Streets project, with a five-year completion window. That's real infrastructure investment coming to the town center.

Public hearings on the Merrimack Road ordinance and Ways & Means deliberations on the Luck Fund and department strategic plans are all ahead. Stay engaged.