Town Council Candidates Weigh in on Legislative Priorities, Jones Borrowing, Affordable Housing, and Public Participation in Government

As we have done in previous elections, the Indy offered candidates for the offices of Town Council, School Committee, and Library Trustee an opportunity to post personal campaign statements in our publication.  We also offered candidates an opportunity to respond to a brief questionnaire in order to give voters a clear indication of where they stand on some of the pressing issues facing our town. Invitations were sent to all candidates in early October.

The candidates’ unedited responses to five questions appear below. Dillon Maxfield (District 4) and Robert Hegner (District 5) did not return a candidate’s questionnaire. Responses to questionnaires for School Committee and Library Trustee appear elsewhere in this issue.

Find a comprehensive compilation of information on the November Election here.

1.What would be your top three priorities as a member of the town council?

District 1
Ndifreke Ette
Housing affordable to Amherst residents of different income levels Repairing and maintaining public infrastructure Elevating civic discourse through public outreach and collaborations with different groups.

Vincent J. O’Connor
1) Attempt to address UMass school year traffic congestion and our road repair crisis by working to authorize a Council committee to negotiate a) improved UMass bus service and b) a significant annual UMass contribution to a municipal Road Repair Fund and/or a joint town/UMass lobbying effort for state Chapter 90 special impact money; 2) Authorizing a joint Council/Amherst School Committee negotiating team to address Amherst College’s failure to provide meaningful compensation for its 1980’s decision to remove its former property tax paying fraternity buildings from the town’s property tax rolls; 3)A revised Council committee structure that would be more transparent and provide better citizen and public access to and information about town government.

Cathy Schoen
My top three priorities would be to:

• Complete work on the new elementary school, from design to construction
• Develop strategies and invest in roads and sidewalks
• Prioritize spending on urgent needs to be fiscally accountable to taxpayers: This includes strong schools, addressing climate change, responsive public services, and securing federal, state, and college/university support of Amherst needs. 

Given competing demands for limited resources, the Council will need to organize efforts to secure expanded State financial support of Amherst’s schools, public buildings. and roads/infrastructure. 

We are home to a major public university and private colleges, our major employers. This results in a large share of town land that is exempt from local taxes, despite the intense use of roads and other public services.  We need to “think outside the box” of local property taxes to ensure our ability to sustain our Town.

District 2
Allegra Clark
1. Transparent budgeting (including participatory budget process) and reprioritizing of funds for operating budgets
2. Racial justice as laid out in reports from CSWG and AHRA (to include youth empowerment center, 24/7 CRESS, affordable housing, business support and changes to policing to reduce contact with drivers)
3. Implementation of the CAARP

Lynn Griesemer
My priorities are reflected in my personal statement and include a focus on: Capital Projects – Build a new DPW and Fire/EMS station, a renovated Senior Center, and repair/replace roads and sidewalks. This can be significantly assisted by the creation of a Municipal and Public Safety Building Authority and the passage and revision of PILOT legislation that compensates the Town of Amherst as host of both public and private higher education institutions. Environment/Sustainability – Secure our first Solar Energy bylaw, build a solar canopy on the Regional High School parking lot, and look for every opportunity to install solar on roof-tops and parking lots and NOT clear cut our forests. Community Health and Safety/Racial and Social Justice – establish a police oversight board, rejuvenation of CRESS, continue support for the Department of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and plan and locate a Youth Center.

Amber Cano Martin
My top priorities are racial justice, climate action, and infrastructure funding decisions that prioritize our towns’ needs, not wants.

District 3
Patrick Drumm
1.) Reprioritize the budget to focus on capital expenditures to maintain and add infrastructure and increase department funding so that the services in town can be properly utilized.
2.) The housing/affordability issues need to be aggressively pursued, the rental market is strangling our community and is severely impacting our town’s ability to grow as a community instead of a fresh batch of renters.
3.) Focus on a functioning municipal government that runs end to end analyses on proposed items so they are truly viable solutions.

Heather Hala Lord
Affordable Housing, Climate Justice, and our Youth, all through an equity lens.

George Ryan
First foremost attending to the day to day concerns and needs of District 3 residents — what I call “governance with a small ‘g'”. What I hear repeatedly as I go door to door in the District is concern about roads, sidewalks, pedestrian and bike safety, speeding, and the proliferation of potholes. I also hear a fair amount of concern about how student rentals can alter the quality of life in residential neighborhoods. I want to focus first on convincing the residents of District 3 that their government understands and is addressing their concerns. Second, I want to focus on senior issues. We need to make improvements to the current Senior Center and we need to address the specific needs of a senior community that is increasingly choosing to age in place. And thirdly I want us to look hard at what we can do to increase housing opportunity and the variety of housing options at all income levels. I think our biggest challenge in housing is “small a” affordable housing — housing for those who do not qualify for state subsidies and so are kept out of the Amherst housing market, what is sometimes referred to as “workforce housing”.

District 4
Anika Lopes
Accessible Infrastructure and Mobility for All -Focus on improving and modernizing our town’s infrastructure, with an emphasis on environmental sustainability and accessibility for pedestrians, cyclists, and individuals with limited mobility. -Direct funding towards creating a walkable and rollable town, ensuring that everyone can safely and conveniently navigate the community. Improve communication with residents, providing updates on infrastructure progress and challenges. Affordable and Diverse Housing Solutions -Address the housing crisis by supporting the development of affordable housing and the use of innovative approaches to promote first-time home buying, with a focus on racial and economic justice. -Advocate for strategies that support safe rental housing options while collaborating with the community, colleges, and universities to expand housing availability. -Champion a regional approach to alleviate the housing shortage, address homelessness, and support diverse housing needs, from young professionals to retirees, with an emphasis on climate resilient housing. Economic Prosperity and Business Growth -Simplify the process for entrepreneurs, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, to establish and invest in Amherst, fostering a thriving business environment. -Facilitate business success by connecting entrepreneurs with education, resources, and support networks at all stages of development. -Promote economic sustainability through a diverse array of businesses.

Pam Rooney
Design guidelines for future development in Town Centers; Retention and availability of Housing for workforce and families for a stronger year-round population; More support and more dialogue with UMass and Amherst College for everyone’s mutual benefit.

Jennifer Taub
1. Striking a healthy, sustainable balance between our year-round and student residents, which is inextricably linked to UMass’s on-campus housing shortage.

• Each year, approximately 12 – 14,000 UMass students cannot secure on-campus housing. In a community of approximately 17,000 year-round residents, 12,000+ students needing off-campus accommodations places an enormous strain on the local housing market.

• We must craft solutions to this housing crisis, which do not entice investors to outbid young families and our local workforce when houses come on the market for sale.

• Investors converting single-family homes to student rentals – with rents priced per bedroom – render those units unaffordable to non-student households. (Increasingly, rents are even beyond the means of students, sharing expenses, to afford.)

• As single-family homes transition to group rental houses, the fabric of a neighborhood changes. In addition to 4 and 5 cars parked in driveways, many guests, noise and late-night activity — neighborhoods in which residents move every 9-12 months are very different from ones in which neighbors form connections over years and decades.

• From Amity Street to Hills Road, as I’ve been speaking with residents while out precinct-walking, the loss of single-family homes to student rentals has been the single most consistent concern residents have raised.

2. Infrastructure: the Council must prioritize funding for maintenance and repair of roads and sidewalks and replacing our sorely outdated DPW headquarters and Fire Station.

3. Meeting climate action goals, including implementing a heat pump program for residents and the Property Assessed Clean Energy program for multifamily and business retrofits.

District 5
Ana Devlin Gauthier
I believe I outlined these in my statement, but my three priorities are Climate Action, Racial Equity and Justice, and Infrastructure.

At-large
Jamie Daniels
I am committed to addressing the most pressing needs of our community, to which there are many. My top three priorities encompass: 1. a commitment to increasing revenue, and budgeting in a way that reflects our values. Ensuring the responsible management of the town’s finances is paramount. This involves not only establishing balanced budget guidelines, but also meticulously scrutinizing expenditures to meet essential needs without imposing an undue burden on taxpayers. Like most municipalities, our budget is stretched. We must boldly and creatively look to increase revenue if we are to deal with our affordable housing crisis, our infrastructure challenges, including the crumbling DPW building, fire station, roads, and sidewalks, and other important initiatives. I will look to strengthen our strategic partnerships with local colleges and the university. I will encourage regionalization strategies—an effective way to partner and pool resources with surrounding towns—and something I’ve been discussing with elected officials. I will look for support from state and federal policy. I will encourage smart and sustainable economic development, prioritizing the interests of our diverse population of families, workers, seniors, students, renters, and homeowners. 2. a deep commitment to helping heal the political divisions within our community, which hinders our progress and prevents us from finding common ground on important issues. To this endeavor, I bring a significant amount of conflict resolution skills, a commitment to accountability and transparency, and deep connective ties with people from every walk of life within our community. 3. and finally, a commitment to ensuring that an equity and justice lens is applied to all aspects of governance.

Mandi Jo Hanneke
We must address our housing crisis; responsibly fund the remaining two major capital projects amidst rising construction costs and interest rates, and a desire to have all projects completed as soon as possible; and continue to address the climate crisis. As a Councilor, I voted to fund the Jones Library and the Elementary School Building projects, the first steps in addressing our outdated infrastructure in a fiscally responsible manner and a major step in moving our public buildings off fossil fuels. I also voted for a smart revision of the Inclusionary Zoning bylaw, supported allowing Accessory Dwelling Units by-right, proposed zoning revisions designed to provide more pathways to homeownership and increase the diversity of housing types in Town, and proposed state legislation that would increase the funds available for affordable housing. To move forward the remaining building projects, I support a funding plan that includes use of the Town’s Capital Stabilization Fund for the Fire Station; sound fiscal management that results in large borrowing capacity and low borrowing costs; and spending limits on projects that result in suitable buildings. I will continue urging the Manager to prioritize finding a location for the DPW building and consider alternate locations for the Fire Station, so that we can move forward without waiting for the DPW project to be complete. On climate action, the Council must continue prioritizing reducing carbon emissions and closely evaluating yearly capital expenditures to ensure the Town is purchasing electric vehicle technology where available and capable.

Matt Holloway
Revenue growth for fiscal stability and to reduce pressure on taxpayers Completion and careful management of four capital projects, including a comprehensive plan to address our declining roads and sidewalks Honor the Council’s commitments to equity and inclusion, especially for BIPOC and other historically marginalized communities, including support for families including excellent schools & childcare

Andrew Steinberg
1. Achieve a balanced annual budget that continues essential Town Services, addresses community priorities as determined by the Council, and limits increases of property tax revenue without an override. This will require difficult choices which must happen in a transparent process that considers community input. Our budget problem is due to the large portion of the town that is not taxable, owned by the state or colleges; the smaller commercial property compared to other municipalities of our size; and the amount of land that is set aside for conservation, agriculture, or forests. 

We must seek new revenue including from: 

(a) the state and UMass to defray Town expenses related to hosting the state University flagship campus; 
(b) Amherst College, and 
(c) new development that is consistent with the community’s vision of Amherst and the Master Plan. 

2. We need to address problems with our infrastructure – roads, sidewalks, and town buildings. We are moving forward with the elementary school and Jones Library projects. We are committed to addressing the inadequacies of the Central Fire/EMS Station and Public Works facility. Other facilities that need attention include our Senior Center. We are just now allocating 10.5% of the budget to capital projects. We need thoughtful planning and increased support from state and federal governments.

 3. The adequacy and affordability of housing is a third priority and addressed in response to another question.

Ellisha Walker
As a member of the town council, my top three priorities are rooted in fostering equity, addressing housing challenges, and investing in our community’s youth. My foremost priority is to lower barriers to equity in participation in town government. I believe in anchoring our planning and decision-making in the voices of those most impacted by our choices, ensuring a more equitable and thriving town. This involves providing language services for non-native English speakers, offering stipends for town committee participants, and building authentic relationships with BIPOC residents and youth in our community. Housing and affordability are pressing concerns in Amherst. We are facing a housing crisis, with issues ranging from insufficient housing for college students to skyrocketing rents. I am committed to advocating for increased availability of subsidized and income-based affordable housing. We must reevaluate what truly qualifies as “affordable housing,” as even some of these units remain financially out of reach for vulnerable residents. Investing in our families and youth is another vital focus. This means dedicating resources to education, providing youth spaces like a Youth Empowerment Center, and ensuring that our community’s younger members have the opportunities and support they need to thrive.

2.Should the town pay, or be at risk for, any more than the $15.8 million (+ $9 million in debt service) that has been authorized thus far for the Jones library demolition and renovation project and if so, is there an upper limit to what the town should additionally provide?

District 1
Ndifreke Ette
no answer submitted

Vincent J. O’Connor
No! I do not support the current Jones Library demolition/expansion project as proposed. Given the cost of the recently approved school project, we must rethink and/or scale back other major capital infrastructure projects, including the Library project.

Cathy Schoen
When the Council first voted to support the library project, it did so with a commitment to limit the Town general fund tax share to $15.8 million. The Council also authorized $1 million of Community Preservation Act funds (financed by a surcharge on property taxes). Taken together, authorized Amherst tax-payer support for the project is nearly $17 million.

This allocation should remain the upper limit of Town tax resources for the project.

We urgently need funds to support other pressing capital and operating budget needs. These include our roads and a DPW building that is near a state of collapse. 

If financing, including grant support falls far short of costs, we may need to pivot to repair and renovate the existing building. To do otherwise would put the Town and the Library endowment at high financial risk. 

District 2
Allegra Clark
I believe the library project, which is listed as a medium priority in the FY24 Capital Improvement Program (while the DPW and South Amherst Fire Station are listed as CRITICAL) should be reevaluated completely. I have concerns about the fundraising for the project. I have concerns as to the actual costs, and the implications for reaching climate change goals with some of the proposed changes to materials. I love books and libraries, but we must prioritize wisely so as to not squander the operating budget of the town and the library.

Lynn Griesemer
The Town of Amherst should not pay or risk any more for the Jones Library renovation and expansion; AND IT DOES NOT NEED TO. Financially here is how it breaks down: • The Town of Amherst has committed to a maximum of $15.8 million to the Jones Library Building Project • The Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC) initially committed $13.8 million to the project, and with the tireless help of Senator Comerford and Representative Domb, MBLC has committed another $1.6 million making MBLC’s commitment $15.4 million. • The remaining funds must be raised by the Trustees. As of October 1, they have raised close to $8 million of the $14 million they must raise. The payment from the Trustees is outlined in the original MOU (and amendment) between the Town and the Trustees. And every effort is being made to not put the endowment at risk in order to reimburse the Town. How Bonding for major Capital Projects that receive state funding works. As with the Elementary School project, the Town of Amherst must bond the project for the total amount. However, MBLC payments are made on an annual basis over 5 years (now 6 years with the additional amount). In a similar manner the Jones Library Trustees must reimburse the Town on an annual basis over 5 years. Finally, you only borrow money as it is needed to pay for costs of the project as they are incurred, so with each year the Town’s debt decreases.

Amber Cano Martin
No.

District 3
Patrick Drumm
From my understanding after touring the library this past Saturday, the town is legally on the hook for any outstanding balance based on the grant that was accepted. My answer though is no, if it comes down to it and the library is unable or unwilling to come up with the necessary funds to complete the project then the town should move to walk away from the project altogether. I understand that the trustees are exploring taking out loans or potentially using the endowment to cover the shortfall if the private donations don’t come through but with other town buildings in worse shape I believe that ultimately the town missed the mark on prioritizing this over the firehouse and DPW projects, not to mention the decaying infrastructure in desperate need of repairs.

Heather Hala Lord
I do not believe the town should pay or be at risk for more than the $15.8 million that has been authorized for the Jones Library demolition and renovation project. I have heard confidence from the Jones Library Trustees that they will be able to raise their portion through donations, grants, and other such avenues. That being said, what is the responsibility of the town if they are unable to raise that money and the building is halfway constructed? I believe there could be a negotiation where perhaps the town lends the money above the $15.8 and lays out a payment plan to be reimbursed. The town is in the process of four renovation/improvement projects that are going to cost millions of dollars. All necessary and also, how do we manage the budget to afford them? Some of the business development in town is to help increase our revenue which would help offset some of these costs. We also need to find other ways, perhaps out-of-the-box thinking, to assist us with paying for these building projects.

George Ryan
The Town’s share is fixed. I would not be in favor of any additional expenditure of Town funds to support the renovation and expansion of the Jones. The success of the capital campaign to date (which is still in the silent phase and has yet to go public) combined with the increase in MBLC support due to the extraordinary efforts of State Senator Jo Comerford and State Rep Mindy Domb, the receipt of Federal funds through the hard work of Congressman Jim McGovern, $1M grant from the NEH to fund the Humanities Center, and the continued pursuit by the Capital Campaign of foundation and corporate funding combined with historical tax credits leave little doubt that the project can move forward without any further financial involvement by the Town.

District 4
Anika Lopes
The Town will not pay more than $15.8M, the amount supported by voters, for the Jones Library expansion and renovation project.

Pam Rooney
The Council will need to vote on a complete project and/or full amount of debt service. I advocated for a smaller project and a reasonable Plan B. I support a Town contribution up to, but not more than, what was already promised by the Previous Council. I can support that commitment only IF there is a legal commitment by the Trustees that they finance any outstanding difference between construction price and funds raised to-date.

Jennifer Taub
The town has committed — and the voters have authorized — $15.8 million (plus debt service) for the Jones Library expansion and renovation. I do not believe the town should be at risk for more than the amount taxpayers have approved. The Library Trustees have indicated that they will commit to filling any gap between the Town’s commitment of $15.8 million (plus debt service) and the total of gifts, grants and other receipts raised from public and private sources. We must hold them to this in order to preserve funding for our sorely needed – and long overdue – new DPW headquarters and fire station.

District 5
Ana Devlin Gauthier
The voters of Amherst authorised the Jones Library Building project spending by nearly 65%. At that time it was clear that the Town would contribute 15.8 million. I do not believe that the Town should pay for more than that, and I trust the Library Trustees to manage the project to ensure that remains true.

At-large
Jamie Daniels
Our libraries are vital civic institutions. If elected, I will work to see the Jones library project, which is well underway, through to completion. The town has a shared cost agreement with the library, and I trust that the library trustees will continue to successfully raise the remaining funds needed to complete the renovation/expansion. Beyond the initial authorization of $15.8 million plus debt service, any additional spending by the town should undergo careful evaluation to ensure that we do not overextend our financial resources. Knowing very clearly the impact all capital projects have on our taxpayers, I will be vigilant in monitoring project expenses and will also work tirelessly to identify funding support for the projects, as well as for the other capital projects that must also be completed, particularly a new Fire Station and DPW facility.

Mandi Jo Hanneke
As a Councilor, I voted to fund the Jones Library Building Project. It is a major step in moving our public buildings off fossil fuels and addressing social and racial inequity. It will provide necessary additional meeting space for the ESL tutoring program, a dedicated teen space, a new Humanities Center, and additional computers for accessing the internet and computer programs. Because of the project’s extraordinary program, we are leveraging the town’s investment by almost two-to-one with additional state, federal, and private funding. In November 2021, 65% of voters approved the project. It is my understanding that a technicality in state law requires the Council to vote an increased borrowing amount, but that the Town’s share will not increase. As with any vote, I will consider the facts carefully, including information on how the Town’s costs for this project compare to the costs to the Town if the project were pivoted to a repair-only project. Original repair-only estimates indicated that repairs alone would cost the town about the same amount as the full expansion, but the Town would lose the climate action and social and racial equity benefits offered by the expansion. I have not seen evidence that a repair-only option has not suffered from the same inflation as the far superior renovation and expansion project we have chosen.

Matt Holloway
No, the taxpayers have authorized this borrowing through a vote. Additional funds would need to be made up by the Jones Library Trustees through fundraising. If fundraising does not make up the expense, the Trustees should follow through with their commitment to either borrow the difference against their endowment or to use their endowment itself.

Andrew Steinberg
The Town allocated $15.8 million. The project can and should be completed without increasing that commitment.

Ellisha Walker
I firmly believe that the town should not have to pay or be at risk for any more than the $15.8 million already authorized, in addition to the $9 million in debt service, for the Jones Library Project. Our town faces significant financial constraints within our operating budget, and we also have pressing capital projects that demand our attention and funding. For instance, our firefighters and Department of Public Works (DPW) workers require adequate staffing and improved working conditions urgently. It would not be fiscally responsible to allocate more funds to the library project until and unless we have addressed these essential capital needs. While I understand the value of library services and community resources, we must prioritize our limited resources to address critical infrastructure and public services first. Setting an upper limit on additional town contributions is necessary to ensure that we maintain fiscal responsibility and allocate resources where they are most urgently required. We must balance our commitment to the library with the need to address other pressing community needs and prioritize projects that have a more immediate impact on the well-being of our residents.

3. Last year saw several calls from elected officials to limit public comment at government meetings. What is the best way to guarantee that the public will be heard by their representatives? Do you think the current arrangements for public comment offer too much, just enough, or not enough opportunities for public comment at government meetings?

District 1
Ndifreke Ette
no answer submitted

Vincent J. O’Connor
Public comments that do not address topics on a particular public body’s agenda should be allowed, but confined to the meeting’s opening activities. Written comments should be encouraged, but not required. Comments that address a meeting agenda item should be allowed after members of the public body have each spoken once. Public comments that summarize a previously submitted written statement should be given a period of time beyond the usual three-minutes consistent with the length and nature of the written submission.

Cathy Schoen
From its inception, the Council committed to multiple paths for public comment. This includes the Council’s rules of procedure provisions for public comments at every meeting and, pending on the subject, more than one comment period. There is also a provision for submitting written comments that are publicized. 

Although not used often, the Council can convene “public dialogues” and working sessions. These offer the potential for discussions well before voting or decisions.

Major actions, including bylaw changes, provide for public hearings. We could likely do more to capture public responses, questions and concerns. District Councilors are required to hold at least 2 meetings per year, and many hold “office hours.” The expansion of the North Amherst Library will provide new opportunities in District 1.

The challenge is how to make sure residents are aware of issues well before decisions, provide outreach, and information about the multiple ways to communicate. This includes easy access to Councilors’ emails and during events.

District 2
Allegra Clark
I believe that public comment periods should remain in all meetings, and would like to see additional comment periods on agenda items where the public has expressed significant interest in the topic. I think there should be more opportunities for district meetings, and for two way communication.

Lynn Griesemer
Based upon the Current Rules of Procedure of the Amherst Town Council, there is no limit to how long a period of Public Comment may last. And while I totally support public comment at government meetings, I also support the need for all public bodies to have time to engage in the business for which they were elected or appointed. Because of this, the Town Council encourages the use of the General Public Comment feature which automatically sends all comments to each Town Councilor and leads to the publication of all public comments upon consent from the commenter. https://www.amherstma.gov/FormCenter/Town-Council-33/General-Public-Comment-185 We also encourage emails sent to TownCouncil@amherstma.gov, district meetings, newsletters, and individual meetings. We are open to other suggestions for how to engage the public.

Amber Cano Martin
My biggest concern with the system as it currently functions is not only is the public limited to three minutes; there is no response whatsoever from the elected officials who are listening. The experience is like talking to a wall. Two way communication between electeds and the public is essential not only to build trust but to create a truly collaborative (not adversarial) relationship. I would advocate that we look into the role of the community participation officer to see if they can create/facilitate more opportunities for an actual dialogue, using all forms of 21st century tech – apps, text, email, Zoom, etc. Translation and interpretation would also be key to this effort in order to bring the broadest range of voices into the conversation.

District 3
Patrick Drumm
Public comment should be enshrined into the town charter where it may only be altered with the majority of the town voting for limiting it. For right now, I’m alright with the current arrangements for government meetings.

Heather Hala Lord
I think we need to hear each and every person’s public comment. If the issue is that the weekly meetings extend into 5 or 6-hour meetings, then perhaps we create an earlier time that day to hear public comments, perhaps we make two sessions of public comments available. As a representative, I will host weekly meetings to hear public comments as well and be able to engage in dialogue to find out more about the comments, questions, and concerns. I think there could be more opportunities for public feedback, whether it’s through engagement on social media, tabling at different events, or finding a way to create more pathways of outreach and survey regarding items up for discussion, measures, and movement into policy. We are better as a collective with many voices gleaning perspectives and issues we may not have considered.

George Ryan
With three years of experience on the Council and chairing at various times two Council committees I am familiar with the challenge of balancing public comment with the work of the Council. There are a number of ways that individuals can be heard by their representatives. All Councilors have email, some (like me) make their phone number available, and all District Councilors are required to do at least 2 public meetings a year (though most, as I did, do more). In addition there is time set aside for public comment both at the Council meetings and at committee meetings. I personally believe that the right of the public to address their representatives takes precedence over my convenience as a Councilor. While I think setting a time limit (usually it is three minutes) perfectly appropriate I do not favor any other limits. While submitting written comments can be a more effective way of influencing Councilors I believe every resident has a right to address their representatives at a public meeting.

District 4
Anika Lopes
I am committed to creating more opportunities for a broader range of voices and perspectives to join the discussion. As someone whose family was historically excluded from decision making in Amherst because they were not allowed to vote or hold public office, I know policies and procedures that limit public engagement harm the community. That being said, public comment is currently rare and often only happens when people want to speak out about a particular issue. It would be helpful if there was time at each meeting or substantial time periodically when people could share news and general concerns with the town. The lack of public comment in meetings has frustrated community members and pushed public discourse to blogs and newspapers which can also limit participation and viewpoints. As an elected official, I work towards inclusive governance and community engagement by: -Advocating for inclusive decision-making processes that actively involve residents, especially youth and elders, in shaping policies and initiatives to ensure equity, -Prioritizing meaningful community engagement to understand the concerns and ideas of those directly impacted by Town Council decisions, and -Fostering intergenerational collaboration and dialogue to strengthen the fabric of our community.

Pam Rooney
Limiting public comment is ridiculous. Listening to people is one of the few ways we have today to understand what is really happening in someone’s life. I may not be able to help to the degree desired but can usually point a person to someone who is better able to address the need (except maybe pothole patching!). In meetings, having public comment early on in the meeting means one doesn’t have to wait 3-4 hours for a chance to speak. Having public opportunity to speak to a specific topic (following Council discussion for instance) can also be beneficial to that discussion. I don’t appreciate cutting off comments at three minutes, but, if organized – three minutes can pack a whole lot of information in and not waste time.

Jennifer Taub
• Public comment should not be curtailed. Currently, members of the public are permitted to speak for up to three minutes – a limit, which should not be reduced. 

• Rarely does public comment extend beyond 30 minutes. When it does, there is good reason; it is an issue of great concern and importance to the community. The Council should encourage public input and expand opportunities to hear from the residents they were elected to serve.

 • Currently, the Presiding Officer has the discretion to limit public comment to one minute if they determine time won’t permit each person in the queue to speak for three minutes. I support increasing this minimum allotted time to two minutes. 

• Members of the public, whether attending a Council meeting in person or participating remotely, should be permitted to raise their hand (or, if in-person, sign in with the Clerk of the Council) to have the chance to speak even after public comment has begun. 

• Members of the public who are not Amherst residents should be permitted to speak during public comment. 

• Providing timely and responsive constituent services is essential to ensuring that residents feel heard by their representatives. I take seriously this part of my Town Councilor responsibilities. Whether through regularly scheduled office hours, District meetings, consistent correspondence and attending neighborhood events, it is important to be accessible, promptly responsive, and willing to get into the “nitty-gritty” of helping resolve constituent issues and concerns. 

• More robust translational services are also key to residents feeling heard.

District 5
Ana Devlin Gauthier
I would first like to say that I do not agree there were actually calls to limit public comment. I believe that there were discussions in committee which were brainstorming possible ways in which we could make meetings shorter, but that it was not advocacy to intentionally limit access to government. I believe our systems specifically for written public comment are effective, where the public is able to fill out a form and it is emailed to all Councilors as well as posted to the website. I think three minutes in a meeting is challenging for people to meet, but that we must be consistent in applying time limits. Ultimately, I think the best way to guarentee people are truly heard by their representatives is to ensure they are able to contact them prior to a meeting when a decision is being made, to allow for time for dialogue, which we cannot have during public comment. I do not at all think we should do away with public comment, moreso I believe it is more effective when there is a chance to have a discussion and seek understanding. While I wish we did not need time limits on public comment, I recognize that it is not logistically feasible to do so. I believe our current process is acceptable, but that there is potential for improvement.

At-large
Jamie Daniels
Public participation stands as the cornerstone of a thriving democracy. To guarantee that the public’s voice is heard loud and clear by their representatives, the town council must maintain open, accessible, and well-structured public comment sessions during meetings. Striking the right balance between providing ample opportunities for public input and efficiently conducting council business is an imperative. I will look to establish a reasonable process for responding to public comments during meetings to ensure that constituents’ views are heard and responded to. Aside from public comment, there are other ways that councilors can establish channels of input from constituents. If elected, I will establish open lines of communication via social media, office hours, and by frequenting community events and meetings that provide opportunity for interaction and dialogue. I will work to increase civic participation. I will stay in conversations with all constituents and stakeholders and I work efficiently and transparently on their behalf.

Mandi Jo Hanneke
The Council offers many opportunities for residents to comment on matters and engage with them, many of which did not exist in the prior form of government. For example, Engage Amherst has been used to seek out opinions and keep residents updated. The Community Resources Committee worked with UMass and Amherst Inspection Services to ensure students and rental property owners were aware of its work on residential rental permitting, the rental survey, and the listening sessions it held. Further, the Council holds multiple public forums a year, has an online public comment form for residents to submit comments that are then published, and offers virtual and in-person public comment at all regular meetings. There is no shortage of ways for members of the public to offer input and comment on matters the Council is considering. In fact, many residents submit identical comments through multiple methods. Let’s be clear: just because the Council does not act in accordance with someone’s request does not mean they haven’t been heard. The Council can sincerely hear and listen to comments without agreeing, especially when views in our Town are so diverse. Further, there is a delicate balance to be had during Council meetings, which are the only time available for the Council to complete the people’s business. Putting outside parameters on public comment during these meetings is a reasonable means of achieving a balance of offering opportunities for public input and ensuring that the Council’s business can be completed in a timely manner.

Matt Holloway
I think public dialogue with counselors should be on-going. Public comment should not be limited or abridged. Public comment also does not adequately capture the need for public dialogue, a two way conversation between Councilors and residents. I would work to develop better mechanisms for residents to hear, and be heard by, the Town Council.

Andrew Steinberg
We need to achieve two goals. One is to provide adequate opportunity for the public to comment on issues of concern to them and observe the deliberation on those issues. The other is to enable the Council to complete its work and make thoughtful decisions. A long meeting late into the night does not assure that either goal is met. Comments provided in writing prior to meetings are helpful and provide Councilors with the opportunity to carefully consider those comments and investigate questions raised or generated by the comments. There also needs to be an opportunity for comment at meetings. The total amount of time allocated for public comment may need to be limited but there should not be a limit on the number of people who offer comments during that period. To be fair, the time limit must be uniform for all comments and may need to be adjusted by the number of people wishing to comment. To achieve this balance, the chairperson may need to require that everyone wishing to comment identify their desire to do so at the beginning of a comment period.

Ellisha Walker
I sincerely support public comment and believe it is an integral part of the proper functioning of the Council. It is imperative that residents have multiple avenues to reach out to and voice their concerns to their elected officials. I believe it should be a priority of the Council to seek to establish more opportunities for robust two-way dialogues and feedback loops with our community, ensuring that residents not only understand the implications of new policies, bylaws, and programs but also actively participate in shaping them. To guarantee that the public is heard, we must prioritize transparency, honesty, and clear communication about our intentions and the decision-making process. It is essential to advocate for and provide sufficient funding to support our collective identified priorities, making public engagement a central focus. I am of the view that the arrangements for public comment should offer ample opportunities for residents to voice their concerns and opinions. However, we should continuously work to enhance public engagement by removing obstacles to inclusion. This includes ensuring access to language support, technology, and information, as well as actively seeking innovative approaches to foster participation from a diverse range of community members. Our commitment should be to remain at the forefront of progressive change and to continuously seek avenues for prosperity, both in financial terms and in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within our town. By doing so, we can ensure that the public is not only heard but also an active and meaningful part of the decision-making process.

4. Do you think there is an affordable housing crisis in Amherst? What do you think the council ought to be doing with regard to housing policy?

District 1
Ndifreke Ette
No answer submitted

Vincent J. O’Connor
Yes! The Council should, while moving forward with various affordable housing proposals now on the table: 1) support the restoration of every Massachusetts municipality’s ability to enact its own, locally tailored rent control bylaws or ordinances that exempt owner-occupied, less-than-five-unit residences; 2) immediately pause the permitting or construction of Amherst Center UMass dormitories posing as mixed use buildings; 3) severely restrict the purchase and rental to undergraduate college students of single-family homes in all residential neighborhoods; 4) require all multi-family projects to meet strict energy conservation requirements and provide meaningful, on-site facilities for children and adults, including secure, sheltered bicycle parking and storage; 5) conduct pre-rent control public hearings that expose the obscene rents of some newly constructed on- and off-campus rental housing units and recent rent increases faced by the town’s year-round, non-student residents who are tenants.

Cathy Schoen
Yes, there is an affordable housing crisis in Amherst, in surrounding towns, and State-wide. The concern is exacerbated in Amherst due to the loss of modest-price houses and apartments as investors convert family homes to student housing in residential neighborhoods. The demand reflects UMass expanded enrollment without a matching expansion of student housing. 

At the same time, construction costs have escalated, and Amherst land is high-priced due to scarcity.

The Council has supported zoning changes to enable Accessory Dwelling units and an inclusionary zoning bylaw. The first offers the opportunity to build small homes adjunct to owner-occupied single-family homes. The second requires a share of apartments in multi-unit buildings be “affordable”, meaning offered at subsidized rates. 

The Council has also supported CPAC funds for new affordable housing developments. These projects leverage Town funds to secure State Funds. 

We can do more. Recently, the Governor announced a new multi-billion-dollar initiative to support more affordable housing. The target will include middle class, modest income residents. The Council and Town staff, working with our State representatives, will need to identify ways for Amherst to benefit and secure support. The Council might also consider increasing the percent required to be affordable in new multi-unit developments, and other regional efforts.

Pressure on UMass to expand student housing on their own property or to release land to the Town for student housing would help lower cost pressure and preserve housing in our residential neighborhoods. 

District 2
Allegra Clark
There is an affordability crisis in Amherst. I think surplus town property should be offered to the housing trust with right of first refusal. I think the inclusionary zoning bylaw should be revisited to increase the number of units to be made affordable and lower the income requirement. I would support a transfer fee bylaw on luxury, LLC and non-owner occupied sales to fund more affordable housing. I would support collaboration with the university to address the housing impact it has on town residents.

Lynn Griesemer
There is an affordable housing crisis across the entire United States and Amherst is no exception. However, the solution needs to be regional and supported at the state level. For example, while Amherst continues to build apartment buildings and exceed the state’s affordable housing goal of 10%, the adjacent communities of Hadley and Belchertown refuse to build apartment complexes and do not come close to reaching the state’s affordable housing goal. In the eastern part of the state, municipalities served by the MBTA were required to meet housing goals set by the state. We need to find similar and REGIONAL solutions for the western part of the state and specifically the GREATER AMHERST AREA.

Amber Cano Martin
Yes, there absolutely is. Some of the things that are already being done are good, and we should do more of them: build more affordable housing with non-profit partners. Inclusionary zoning is great, but we could lower the threshold of the number of units required in a project for inclusionary zoning to kick in. The town could start to provide rent assistance and first time homebuyer assistance. One thing we should stop doing is allowing developers to build expensive housing geared at students ($1000 + per bedroom) in the downtown, and work with UMASS to house more students on campus. If more students lived on campus, that would also decrease the pressure on the housing stock that seems to be driving local rent up so much. I’m glad to see the current council is advocating for a local real estate transfer tax, which should generate more funds for affordable housing, and I would continue that work if elected. I also would help to lobby at the state level for rent control.

District 3
Patrick Drumm
I believe calling it a crisis is blowing it out of proportion, I do believe it’s an issue though that needs to be addressed properly instead of with ineffectual bylaws. Ultimately, without UMass’s buy-in on increasing on campus (affordable) dorms there will continue to be an affordability issue in town. Building more apartments is painting over the root cause and while it will increase tax revenue, it’s not solving the issue as several apartment complexes in town have vacancies. While the town should pursue action with UMass and the state about the issue, the town council should also look at the rental bylaws with the ultimate goal of limiting the number of rental permits issued. Too many young families are leaving town or not even looking due to entry-home competition with companies buying up neighborhoods and I don’t understand why there’s not more urgency to stop it other than that young families cost more to the town than students so the incentive is not there financially.

Heather Hala Lord
There is an affordable housing crisis in Amherst as well as in this country. Many of the residents are paying well beyond the recommended 30% of their income on their mortgage or rent. As well, other residents have been forced out of Amherst due to an inability to keep up with the rising costs of rent. Truthfully the housing crisis needs to be addressed on the federal level, locally we alone cannot solve it. We can take steps to mitigate it. We can increase funding and the presence of community land trusts as a step. We can revise our zoning to allow more multi-unit buildings and ensure that they are affordable. We can also inventory and allocate public land for affordable housing while incentivizing the building of these units. We can apply for federal and state grants to increase voucher and housing assistance programs. We could also find ways to improve financing for new homeowners and existing homeowners. There are many ideas and ways to get there, and it won’t be an easy task but I believe we can do it and also push the federal and state towards taking more responsibility to tackle to affordable housing crisis.

George Ryan
Yes. We need to to be in substantive dialog with the University and Amherst College around the issue of housing. We need to be open to looking at our zoning bylaws which have traditionally favored single family homes on large lots. We need to acknowledge that zoning traditionally in the U.S. has been exclusionary and we need to find ways to break down some of these long standing barriers. We should be looking at encouraging a variety of housing types (duplex, triplex, Townhome) as well as exploring ways we can assist first time homebuyers with up front costs and seniors who are aging in place but may need help maintaining their properties. And at the same time we must be constantly sensitive to the outsize impact that student demand has on our housing scene. We should emphasize owner-occupancy.

District 4
Anika Lopes
Amherst faces an affordable housing crisis, mirroring a nationwide issue driven by soaring mortgage rates, limited housing supply, and exorbitant construction costs. This crisis is deeply personal for me as a renter who feels firsthand the unsustainable rent burden, especially when compared to homeowners’ more reasonable mortgage payments. The Town Council must prioritize dismantling the obstacles that have made securing housing in Amherst so challenging. It’s essential to approach this situation with great care, scrutinizing zoning regulations that could exacerbate the emergency. I grew up knowing about the discriminatory history in my community, epitomized by my bus stop on Blue Hills Road, where African Americans were once barred from residing or owning property. I grew up knowing this historical discrimination that denied my family and many others the opportunity to live in certain parts of Amherst, perpetuating racial and socioeconomic divides. I know the struggle to make ends meet and recognize that many have been forced to leave due to the unaffordable housing market. It’s crucial for the Town Council to champion a regional approach to housing, streamline the process for building new homes, and collaborate with organizations dedicated to affordable housing and homeownership. Some have suggested zoning restrictions to limit the number of student rentals in a neighborhood. While well-intentioned, such exclusionary zoning ultimately harms the broader community. Our focus should be on creating a town that welcomes all and addresses the root causes of the housing crisis, ensuring housing is accessible to everyone who calls Amherst home.

Pam Rooney
Yes – it is a national crisis, exacerbated here in Amherst by the growing thousands of students unable to live on campus. What has made it so crystal clear in the last several years is the added insult of having outside investors buying up single-family homes as older homeowners depart. A home once available to workforce households is now rented to 4+ students at ever higher prices. This house is now lost to our year-round population – they cannot compete for the sales price, and they cannot afford to make the hefty repairs to a home once it has been a student rental. UMass has opportunity to build additional housing – including their own workforce housing – on campus. Continuing to direct Community Preservation Act $$ toward new affordable housing, including more ownership opportunities, is currently one of our few tools to address the need. Pushing for revised PILOT payments from the Commonwealth could help our finances in the housing arena as well.

Jennifer Taub
Implementing strategies to address Amherst’s housing crisis must be a top priority for Council action. Since 2015, Amherst has permitted 862 new dwelling units, only 82 of which are single-family homes. These new apartment complexes are largely designed and built for the student rental market (and priced accordingly). During this same time, we’ve seen an increase in the conversion of single-family homes to group rental houses. All of this contributes to the housing crisis in Amherst. Measures the Council can take: 1. Advocate for UMass to build more on-campus housing. 2. Consider adopting some form of Minimum Distance Requirements (MDRs). As John Varner suggested in a recent Indy article: “Track student housing…. and establish a minimum distance, lot line to lot line, for student rentals. Existing properties would be grandfathered in, but upon change of ownership would become subject to student housing density regulations This has been done in other college towns…” MDRs also ensure that some portion of rental housing – those dwellings which cannot be a “student house” – are priced at a rate non-student households can afford. 3. Do not increase the number of student residents permitted to occupy a single dwelling unit. This only makes more enticing, the purchase of single-family homes for conversion to group rental housing. (The more tenants, the higher the rent, and the greater ROI.) 4. Secure more affordable housing developments like Valley CDC’s Ball Lane for first-time home buyers, East Street School and Belchertown Road projects. 5. Increase inclusionary zoning requirements to 15%.

District 5
Ana Devlin Gauthier
There is an affordable housing crisis in Amherst, and state wide. In this past term I brought forward a home rule petition alongside Mandi Jo Hanneke which would introduce a property transfer fee for luxury and non owner-occupied homes. The revenue generated from this fee (which is estimated to be over 1 million a year) would be split between affordable housing, general fund, and capital funds. We need more innovative solutions such as that home rule (currently in committee at the state level), as well as council support for partnerships such as transitional housing at the former VFW site and the affordable homeownership project on Ball lane. It would be helpful for the Council to explore and support other housing initiatives, such as creating a down payment assistance fund, or ensuring we are maxing out our CPA contributions to affordable housing projects.

At-large
Jamie Daniels
There is undoubtedly an affordable housing crisis in Amherst, as is the case in many other towns and municipalities across our state and nation. This issue is compounded locally for several reasons. We have limited inventory of easily buildable land because we do a fantastic job of putting land aside for open space and recreation, and continued support of local agriculture, and so much of the rest is owned by one of the colleges or UMass. Out of town investors have been converting single family homes into undergraduate student housing, which is absolutely affecting family accessibility and affordability. Our local investors have been largely focused on the development of high end, expensive, and exclusionary housing. Among our extensive existing comprehensive housing policies, the Town Council should prioritize incentives to promote affordable rental housing and homeownership opportunities, sensible zoning reforms that make building smaller units financially attractive to local investors or cooperative projects, and stricter regulation of existing undergraduate rental properties to prevent further erosion of single-family homeownership. Furthermore, it’s essential that we all continue advocate for new and comprehensive housing policies at the state and/or national level. Addressing this crisis demands a multifaceted approach that balances our town’s unique housing needs with the reality of our capacity to solve the problem without state or national support.

Mandi Jo Hanneke
Addressing Amherst’s housing crisis is one of my top priorities. To address the affordability crisis, we need to keep three goals of the Comprehensive Housing Policy at the forefront of discussions: promoting a variety of pathways to homeownership, increasing the supply and variety of housing types; and finding resources to support affordable housing. As a Councilor, I co-sponsored resolutions supporting state legislation to provide funds for creating, supporting, and developing deed-restricted affordable housing, to levy a fee on transfers of property to support affordable housing, and to seal eviction records so residents can better maintain housing security. I have also co-sponsored legislation that would allow Amherst to impose a fee on property transfers to provide funds for affordable housing in Amherst. If enacted at the state level, I will sponsor the local bylaw to enable it. The Master Plan provides a good framework for some of the zoning changes Amherst should consider: • guiding new housing growth to areas that minimize the impact on Amherst’s open space; • encouraging a greater mix of housing types, sizes, and prices to serve a wider range of income levels and special populations; • promoting infill development; and • public-private partnerships for student housing. This term, I co-sponsored legislation designed to provide more pathways to homeownership and increase the diversity of housing types in Town. If re-elected, I will continue to address these Goals.

Matt Holloway
I do think there is an affordable housing crisis. I think the solution lies in an interaction between zoning, smart development, and collaboration with UMass Amherst. I support inclusionary zoning and efforts to generate more options for housing stock through easing restrictions on duplexes, triplexes, and the like. I also strongly support efforts to densify the village centers.

Andrew Steinberg
There is an affordable housing crisis nationally, statewide, and in Amherst. That applies to subsidized housing for people who qualify and for individuals and households who do not qualify for subsidized housing. Amherst has consistently seized opportunities to build and preserve subsidized housing and exceeds the requirement of Section 40B. The Council strengthened the inclusionary zoning bylaw which provided additional affordable units. The need is great, and these efforts must continue. As housing costs have increased, it is more difficult to afford housing in Amherst. New employees of the University of Massachusetts and the Town are increasingly looking outside of Amherst to find adequate housing. The two most obvious solutions are to allow building on less land, duplexes, triplexes, and other multiunit housing, and to discourage conversion of family housing to rental properties marketed to students. There are challenges to both options and a robust public process is needed.

Ellisha Walker
Without a doubt, there is an affordable housing crisis in Amherst, and this issue extends well beyond our town’s borders. To tackle this pressing matter, I am fully committed to advocating for the increased availability of subsidized and income-based affordable housing. It is essential that we reassess our definition of “affordable housing,” as some units currently remain financially out of reach for low-income, fixed-income, and other vulnerable residents. Additionally, my approach involves retaining families in our community by expanding rental and homeowner housing assistance programs. We need to ensure that housing information is accessible to all residents through language equity initiatives. An anti-racist approach will be integral in guiding our processes, communication, and information dissemination regarding housing matters. Finally, I believe in adopting a collaborative, community-based approach to address the complexities of student housing. Recognizing that this is a multifaceted issue, I emphasize the importance of collective efforts to find viable solutions. It is imperative that we work together, involving students, town officials, the universities and other stakeholders, to develop comprehensive and sustainable strategies that address the diverse housing needs within our community.

5. Should the public have the means to contest a Town Council decision beyond the current voter veto provision of the Town Charter?

District 1
Ndifreke Ette
no answer submitted

Vincent J. O’Connor
Yes! Both a revised voter veto provision and other means to require more timely and responsive Council reaction to public concerns are clearly needed.

Cathy Schoen
The Charter veto provision is innovative – not typically available in other Charters. The provision allows voters to organize to protest a Council decision. A veto petition must be signed by at least 5% of registered voters to show there is substantial support. Once the petition is certified the measure is temporarily suspended pending either reconsideration or the Council is required to schedule a special election or add the question in the next regular Town election. (see Charter Section 8.4).  This is a strong provision. 

If there is widespread concern, the public should also hold Councilors and District Councilors accountable. This includes submitting emails, written comments during hearings, calling Councilors, attending meetings and hearings.  And voting.

District 2
Allegra Clark
I think this would be an excellent topic for the charter review commission.

Lynn Griesemer
I sincerely hope that the upcoming 2024 Charter Review Committee will be open to looking at all options for public and voter engagement within the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and consistent with the values of Amherst.

Amber Cano Martin
It seems like the voter veto provision is a good option, but the burden of collecting such a large number of signatures (5% of total eligible voters) in two weeks time seems excessive. Also, how can we ensure this provision is being applied in good faith? The first time it was used, 1/5 of the gathered signatures were disqualified and the signature threshold was calculated to be higher than 5% of the most recent number of eligible voters recorded. I hope this issue (compliance by the town) is something the charter review committee can look into and work to improve.

District 3
Patrick Drumm
I believe the voter veto window should be extended to allow for additional time for the community to take action and the minimum voter turnout raised so that a proper representation of voters be heard. I was asked if I supported a recall bylaw, and I do, I was honestly surprised that Amherst didn’t already have one in place.

Heather Hala Lord
I believe the current voter veto provision is an effective way to contest a Town Council decision and I am also open to hearing and learning of other ways that may be more accessible for the public to contest. If I hear concerns or opinions as to why this one model isn’t sufficient and we need more pathways for contest, I will be open to hearing, considering, and fighting for those provisions to hear what the people of Amherst need and want.

George Ryan
We have a representative form of government. Every two years those representatives are accountable at the ballot box to the people they represent. I would not be in favor of further means of “second guessing” the elected representatives. If you don’t like what the Council is doing you have the option of a voter veto petition and if that fails you can vote the rascals out of office … and/or run for office yourself.

District 4
Anika Lopes
That is what elections are for.

Pam Rooney
Perhaps, but would it be productive?

Jennifer Taub
As per Section 8.4 of the Amherst Home Rule Charter, the provisions of the voter veto state: “If, within 14 days following the date on which the Town Council has voted finally to approve any measure, a petition on a form prepared by the Town, physically signed by a minimum of 5% of the registered voters as of the date of the most recent Town election…..the effective date of that measure shall be temporarily suspended….” I would support extending to 21 days, the period required to obtain signatures from 5% of the registered voters and submit the petition to the Clerk of the Council. I would also support consideration of accepting signatures via electronic petition. Most importantly, we need to apply common sense in setting the parameters under which signatures on a petition are deemed invalid. Signatures must not be rejected on frivolous grounds, such as abbreviating Road to Rd. or not including a middle initial that appears on the voter registration card. We should aim to be as inclusive as we can, enabling voters to exercise their franchise as much as possible and not place limitations or constraints on this essential right.

District 5
Ana Devlin Gauthier
As this is a charter provision, I believe it is a good topic to bring to the charter review committee and as a councilor I would be happy to suggest that. I do think the voter veto petition is an effective method. However, I do not believe it is the only means of contesting a town council decision. I believe it is also effective when residents speak with their councilors, as their representatives to share insights and concerns, as that councilor is able to request to reconsider a vote within a specific timeframe.

At -large
Jamie Daniels
I fully support citizens’ current ability to collect signatures and potentially veto any decision made by the Town Council as outlined in the current voter veto provision of the Town Charter; and I support creating as many avenues as possible for strengthening opportunities for citizen engagement and empowerment in town affairs. If elected, I would urge that this question of the voter veto process be carefully evaluated as part of the charter review process. Constituent input from a wide range of perspectives should be a vital part of the charter review process.

Mandi Jo Hanneke
Members of the public already have two other means of contesting a Town Council decision. First, under the Charter, they can gather signatures and file a group petition seeking a reconsideration or revote. If enough signatures are gathered, the Council must act on the group petition. Second, as with any representative democracy, every two years, the voters elect the entire Town Council, which is the primary way for voters to ensure that they are electing representatives that act in the best interests of the public. If voters are dissatisfied with decisions the Council has made, they may replace the Councilors at these biennial elections.

Matt Holloway
I would like to learn more about other mechanisms to accomplish this. Thank you for providing me with the opportunity to complete this survey. I am asking for your vote for one of three at-large Town Council seats in this Fall’s Amherst town election.

Andrew Steinberg
This is a matter that should be considered by the Charter Review Committee to be appointed in 2024. I will consider any recommendations it presents.

Ellisha Walker
The question of whether the public should have additional means to contest a Town Council decision beyond the current voter veto provision of the Town Charter is a critical one, and I believe it’s a topic that warrants exploration during the 2024 charter review process. I am committed to facilitating a comprehensive and inclusive review that invites input from a wide range of residents. To begin, it is imperative that we establish a diverse charter review committee, including members from marginalized communities. By incorporating their perspectives, we can ensure that the review process is representative and equitable. Public hearings and workshops should be organized in accessible locations and offered in multiple languages to accommodate a diverse and inclusive range of residents’ input. Transparency is paramount in this process. Providing clear information about the Amherst town charter review through various outreach channels is essential. Accessibility should be prioritized at every stage, making documents and meetings available both online and in-person to enable active participation and the ability to hold decision-makers accountable. In this way, we can ensure that any potential changes to the means for contesting council decisions are informed, transparent, and reflect the diverse voices of our community.