Amherst Imposes Level 2 Water Restrictions, Names New Senior Services Director

DATELINE: AMHERST

Amherst residents are under active Level 2 water use restrictions this week, and Town Manager Paul Bockelman has named Daniel Garcia as the town's new Director of Senior Services, with Garcia expected to begin July 20.

TOWN HALL

The town has issued a Level 2 water use restriction, the more serious of the standard two tiers, urging residents to reduce non-essential outdoor water use. A separate notice regarding Puffer's Pond is also active on the town's alert board; residents planning a swim should check the town's website for the latest conditions before heading out.

Bockelman's appointment of Garcia fills the Director of Senior Services role and comes as the Bangs Community Center — home to the Senior Center — moves through a renovation that includes health, safety, and accessibility improvements. The building remains open throughout the work, and the town expects full completion in early 2027.

The Department of Public Works is also continuing construction on University Drive. The project is part of a broader push to improve roads and sidewalks across town; drivers in that corridor should expect ongoing traffic disruptions.

COMING UP

The Council on Aging and the Conservation Commission both meet Wednesday, July 8. The Jones Library, Inc. Board of Trustees and the Zoning Board of Appeals hold meetings Thursday, July 9. The Public Art Commission meets Friday, July 10 — the same day as the Downtown Summer Concert Series and a "Cuppa' Joe" informal conversation with Town Manager Bockelman and Communications Manager Samantha Giffen. The Local Historic District Commission holds a public hearing Monday, July 13. Open-play pickleball continues at Mill River on Tuesday and Thursday this week.