Planning Board — December 4, 2024
Amherst Planning Board discussed unlisted Jacobson subdivision concerns on buffers, farmland ownership, and solar arrays at Dec 4 meeting
Routine procedural approvals contrasted with extended questioning and multiple public comments on density, buffers, and land use, leading to deferral rather than approval.
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At its December 4 meeting the Amherst Planning Board heard public comments on the Jacobson subdivision application concerning wetland buffer reductions tied to density, whether the farmland should be placed in common ownership, and solar arrays on agricultural land. These topics were not on the public agenda. The board noted the comments, ordered engineering and fire reviews, and continued the matter to February 19 without resolving the issues or scheduling additional public input. Separately, the board discussed sidewalk access along Christian Hill and the counting of multi-bedroom senior housing units—again without prior agenda notice. All recorded motions passed without opposition.
Public impact
33 single-family lots plus farm/open space on significant acreage, with waivers and potential off-site road improvements
Topics discussed
Review of as-built non-residential site plan for substation expansion at 2 Hertz Drive; applicant proposed bonding ~$145k for delayed landscaping installation until spring.
Discussion of final subdivision approval for 33 single-family lots plus farm and open space lots under the former Integrated Innovative Housing Ordinance; included CUP request, two waivers (cul-de-sac radius, roadway slope), stormwater design, and completeness determination.
Discussion of potential sidewalk or path along Christian Hill to support walking to schools from the 39-unit development.
Board members questioned ensuite bedrooms and whether a multi-bedroom senior house counts as one unit.
Applicant described hiring consultant Ian McSweeney for a farm plan using 99-year leases, 1% transfer fee, and polyface/permaculture methods on ~4.5 acres.
Questions on shared driveway serving ~6 properties at the cul-de-sac end.
Residents and abutters commented on farmland ownership, wetland buffers, solar arrays, and housing types.
Board discussed timeline for engineering review and continued the application; approved November minutes and adjourned.
Controversy & dissent
Potentially controversial issues
Jacobson subdivision buffers, farmland ownership, and solar compatibility
Community vs. board tension
Public comment
Decisions logged
Action items
Accountability flags
Topics discussed — not on agenda
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