Amherst town council has approved a new bylaw aimed at preventing graffiti while also moving forward with a proposed affordable housing development in the town’s downtown.
The new graffiti bylaw requires property owners to remove most graffiti within 15 days after receiving notice from the town. Graffiti considered offensive or hate-based must be removed within 24 hours. If owners fail to comply, the town may remove the graffiti itself and recover the cost from the property owner. The bylaw also establishes fines for violations.
During the same June 22 meeting, council gave first reading to a development agreement that would allow the YMCA of Cumberland to construct a 36-unit affordable housing development at 1 Albion Street.
Town staff say the project would add much-needed housing within walking distance of downtown services and amenities.
A public hearing on the proposed development is scheduled for Tuesday, July 8 at 5pm, after which council will decide whether to grant final approval.
