Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Town of Hamburg public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
12 issues in zoning
Detached Garage Variances at 5233 McKinley Pkwy
Steven Smith is requesting two area variances for a detached garage on McKinley Parkway. The board will evaluate whether the proposed garage respects neighborhood setbacks and size guidelines.
Accessory Structure Variance at 6150 Heltz Rd
Christine Butcher is seeking an area variance for a proposed accessory structure on Heltz Road. Neighbors can comment on how the structure might affect property lines and neighborhood character.
Residential Setback Variances and Property Improvements
Homeowners secured variances to expand living arrangements for family care at Second Street and build personal storage space at Lakeview Road.
Zoning Code Amendments on Attendance and Alternates
The Planning Department is bringing forward various zoning code amendments for the board to discuss at the work session. Changes to the zoning code can affect what can be built where across the town.
Parker Road Residential Subdivision
The board is worried that if this big subdivision builds out over years, the promised trails and open space could get forgotten. Members want sidewalks along Parker Road frontage and a condition tying trails and amenities to early phases, with the hearing set for December 2.
Proposed Data Center Moratorium
The town hit pause on new large-scale data centers while it updates zoning rules. Officials stressed no proposal is pending — the goal is to get ahead of power, water, noise, and quality-of-life impacts before anything is proposed.
Woodlawn Industrial Warehouse and Concrete Barrier Concerns
Woodlawn residents raised serious concerns regarding a newly approved industrial warehouse on Lakeshore Road, citing potential contamination from historical industrial dumping and unsightly concrete jersey barriers placed along property lines.
Opposition to County Planning Board
The town board adopted a resolution opposing the creation of an Erie County Planning Board or Commission to protect local zoning and land-use control.
Stadium Impact Area (SIA) Zoning Proposal
The town is applying for a $97.4 million NYSDOT grant to fund transportation enhancements near the new Bills stadium, committing a 20% local match.
Comprehensive Site Plan Review Zoning Code Revision
The town is updating its subdivision and site plan review rules to streamline development and clarify approval stages.
Chris Van Leaven 4-Lot Subdivision at 4261 Lakeshore Road
Neighbors strongly opposed a plan to split an 8.5-acre historic estate at 4261 Lake Shore Road into four residential lots, warning of increased traffic hazards on Route 5 and the permanent loss of open space and community character.
Unpermitted Pigeon Coop and Rodent Complaints on Sixth Street
Homeowners applied for variances to keep 32 show pigeons and an accessory structure after building without proper permits. Neighbors testified at length about severe rat infestations, foul odors, and burn barrel hazards, leading the board to deny the request.