Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Town of Hamburg public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
11 issues with critical priority
Battery Energy Storage System Proposal at 6433 Railroad Avenue
Two companies want to put a Tier 3 battery energy storage system on a 2.7-acre site at 6433 Railroad Avenue, needing a use variance from the Zoning Board and site plan approval from the Planning Board. The board will discuss the draft scoping document for the environmental impact statement.
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.
Briad Development Traveler Center on Big Tree Road
The approved Briad traveler center sits near Highmark Stadium, where Big Tree Road already clogs on event days. The board required the applicant to work with the Traffic Safety Advisory Board on a special-event traffic mitigation plan before opening, and to come back if DOT rejects either driveway.
Town of Hamburg Ambulance District Establishment
The board formally established the town-wide Ambulance District, covering everything except the villages of Hamburg and Blasdell — the final step after the public hearing and permissive referendum process.
Camp Road corridor safety
Friends and family of Tia Brown, killed in an October crash on Camp Road, asked the town for help fixing the dangerous curve. It's a state road, so the town has petitioned NYSDOT for years without success — now they're sending letters through state and county lawmakers and drafting a formal resolution.
All Seasons VM Storage Commercial Warehouses
A proposal for ten commercial flex warehouse buildings on Southwestern Boulevard is up for review, which could expand local business space but also change the look of the corridor.
2027 Town and Fire District Budgets
Amendments to the 2027 Supervisor's Budget are on the agenda, along with several department-level transfers for police, highway, buildings & grounds, and recreation.
Proposed Real Property Tax Cap Override
Residents expressed frustration over proposed tax increases and the town's consideration of overriding the state tax levy limit. Board members discussed balancing the town's fund balance, employee benefit costs, and upcoming budget presentations.
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.
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.
Industrial Shop Development on Lakeshore Road
A proposal to build six contractor warehouse buildings on Lakeshore Road has drawn strong community interest and detailed site revisions regarding setbacks, traffic flow, and environmental buffers.