Annual State Of The Town Presentation Underscores Success During Pandemic

The Annual State of the Town Address was presented at the regular Town Council Meeting on December 7. Reports were offered by Council President Lynn Griesemer (District 2), Town Manager Paul Bockelman, School Committee Chair Allison McDonald, and Library Trustee President Austin Sarat. The presentations of the first three speakers can be found here:

 All speakers stressed the success the Town has had, despite the challenges of the pandemic. As Bockelman stated, we began the year with great plans for Destination Amherst, a plan to improve the downtown area for residents and visitors, but when COVID happened, the priorities were reordered. Some projects were postponed and some staffers reassigned. A core team of administrators, safety officials, and the health director met at least once a day for much of the spring and summer. All departments stepped up, and millions of dollars were raised through grants.