Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Town of Tonawanda public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
18 issues in development
Drive-up ATM at Sheridan-Eggert Plaza
The board approved a special use permit for a standalone drive-thru ATM kiosk for Empower Federal Credit Union at Sheridan Eggert Plaza. It comes with basic landscaping and a new light pole, and no residents objected.
New Planning Director Hired
The town filled its long-vacant planning director position through the personnel resolutions. Interim Supervisor Flynn praised Randy, who had covered the role for nearly six months, and welcomed new hire Heika Jacob.
Englewood Avenue Comprehensive Plan Outreach
Resident Ken Winger criticized the comprehensive plan update process, saying an Englewood Avenue neighborhood walkthrough had no actual residents or business owners from the street despite claims that 800 notices went out. He's rallying neighbors through Crime Watch to get involved.
Sheridan Drive commercial and residential development
Two Sheridan Drive projects were on the action agenda: a second-floor addition for a diet studio at 2560 Sheridan and a 12-unit apartment building at 2415 Sheridan with a parking waiver request. What the board decided would shape the look and parking on this busy corridor.
River Road Apartment Development
Several discussion items covered industrial activity along River Road — a concrete batch plant, a PeroxyChem water intake and pump station, and a Uniland manufacturing addition — plus a change of use at Steaksters on Brighton Road. These touch on industry's place near the Niagara River corridor.
Industrial and Commercial Solar and Facility Expansions
Gear Motions was seeking review for a large 56,000-square-foot new building at 75 Pirson Parkway, including an environmental (SEQR) determination. It's a significant industrial investment in the town.
Dollar Tree conversion of former Rite Aid
The Elmwood Avenue plaza's former Rite Aid will become a Dollar Tree, with the drive-thru removed, upgraded landscaping, and a new crosswalk for pedestrians.
Commercial Retail Expansion at 2865 Elmwood Avenue
Benderson Development received approval to open a Dollar Tree retail store at the former Rite Aid site, bringing vacant commercial space back into use with upgraded landscaping and improved pedestrian access.
Tonawanda Rail Trail Enhancements Bidding
Residents expressed concerns regarding a proposed bike path entrance near Gettysburg Avenue and ongoing speeding and traffic enforcement issues at neighborhood intersections.
Vacant Commercial Property Blight
A resident highlighted long-standing blight and safety hazards at the former Kenwell Manor nursing home at 2456 Delaware Avenue, which has been vacant since 2019, accumulated over $400,000 in back taxes, and failed to sell at tax auction.
Waterfront Development
Tonawanda is dropping $500,000 on a brand-new waterfront overlook, so you'll soon have a much nicer spot to hang out by the water. It's a quick win to make our local scenery a bit more enjoyable for everyday hangouts.
Commercial and Industrial Site Plan Reviews
The Planning Board reviewed several commercial expansions and new businesses, ensuring proper landscaping, parking, and safety standards are met.
Victoria Place Apartments Affordable Senior Housing
The town authorized a $1.04 million HOME grant agreement to help fund the construction of the Victoria Place Apartments, a 37-unit affordable senior housing complex in Kenmore.
Proposed Data Center Development and Town Moratorium
Residents and environmental advocates raised concerns about noise, heavy water and power demands, and potential pollution from a proposed massive data center at the former Tonawanda Coke site. Officials noted that environmental reviews with state agencies are ongoing.
Grocery Store Development at 281 Kenmore Avenue
The town board scheduled a public hearing for May 4 on a special use permit application for a grocery store larger than 5,000 square feet.
Development Services Center Relocation
The town approved spending $33,375 for moving services to relocate the Development Services Center to 5949 Camp Road.
Redevelopment and Cleanup of Former Tonawanda Coke Site
Developers presented plans for a massive 500,000-square-foot artificial intelligence data center at the former Tonawanda Coke site on River Road, alongside ongoing state-supervised environmental cleanup. Community advocates raised concerns about the massive energy consumption of the data center and urged careful alignment with waterfront development goals.
Commercial Redevelopment of Former Bon Ton into Medical Offices
Benderson Development is transforming the old Bon Ton store on Sheridan Drive into a modern medical office. The Planning Board approved the site plan modifications for parking and building access.