Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Buffalo public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
12 issues in development with high priority
Demolition Requests for Historic and Residential Properties
Developer Main Gateway, L.P. is appealing the Preservation Board's refusal to allow demolition of a 150-year-old building, arguing rehab would lose about $803,000. A public hearing will be scheduled before the full Council decides.
Local Landmark Designation for Broadway Auditorium
A months-old push to landmark 756 Broadway failed in committee, which voted to recommend denial to the full Council.
Vacant Property Demolition Financial Responsibility
Two burned-out buildings on Clinton and Lombard are coming down on the city's dime, but the city liens insurance and bills owners. The Permits commissioner says a small group of repeat-offender landlords owes the city six and seven figures.
BMHA Board Appointments and Housing Conditions
Mayor Ryan appointed Paul Perez and Brandi Barrett to the BMHA board, and the committee recommended them 7-0. Councilmember Wyatt warned the new members not to rubber-stamp the executive director, citing boarded-up units and poor conditions at Kenfield-Langfield. Members also asked the appointees to return with a breakdown of BMHA finances and faster maintenance response times.
Multi-Unit Building Development and Density Variances
Developers are proposing larger construction projects, such as the multi-variance project at Lafayette and Hoyt, that require relief from maximum density, building height, and parking rules. These projects shape urban density and housing availability in established neighborhoods.
Comprehensive Development Plan for 2 Templeton Terrace
Council members are seeking a comprehensive plan for the city-owned waterfront property at 2 Templeton Terrace following recent court rulings involving Specialty Restaurants Corporation. The property represents a significant economic development opportunity along the Erie Basin Marina.
Commercial Building Development at 350 Dingens Street
A developer is building a 10,000-square-foot commercial multi-tenant building at 350 Dingens Street. Neighboring property owners raised concerns about stormwater, traffic conflicts with a nearby drive-thru, and construction dust, which the board addressed by adding traffic and lighting conditions.
Affordable Infill Housing on Laurel Street
Belmont Housing Resources is seeking variances to construct five new affordable single-family homes on vacant lots along Laurel Street. While neighbors expressed concerns regarding property lines, construction impact on trees, and survey accuracy, the board supported the project to help first-time homebuyers.
City-Wide Architectural Master Planning Services
DPW Commissioner Nolan Skipper updated the council on a $2 million master planning contract for city-owned buildings and bicycle infrastructure, prompting demands for better community engagement and transparency on street design changes.
New Daycare Center in South Buffalo
Catholic Health is bringing a much-needed daycare center to Abbott Road to support Mercy Hospital workers and local families in a designated childcare desert.
Vacant and Abandoned Property Insurance Mandates
Prompted by major fires at vacant buildings like St. Anne's, the council advanced legislation requiring financial responsibility and insurance for vacant properties to protect the city from shouldering multi-million dollar demolition costs.
Commercial Development and Streetscape at 1002 Abbott Road
The board reviewed a plan for a new physical therapy building but pushed back on how the building and parking lot are laid out, asking developers to make the building face Abbott Road more prominently.