Hamburg · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Town of Hamburg public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Single-Family Dwelling Variance at 6286 Old Lake Shore Rd
12 Lakeview Woods Inc. is asking for an area variance to build a new single-family home on Old Lake Shore Road. This project will shape residential density and shoreline aesthetics.
Woodlawn Gateway Brownfield Opportunity Area plan
The board may designate itself lead agency for the Hamburg Woodlawn Gateway Brownfield Opportunity Area plan and set a public hearing, moving redevelopment planning for this corridor forward.
Wetzl Development Rezoning and Environmental Impact Statement
The board is diving into the environmental impact statement for a rezoning project near McKinley Parkway, balancing growth with environmental protection.
Short-Term Rental Regulations and Fees
The town adopted its first short-term rental law, requiring permits ($500 application, $1,500 two-year permit) and giving code enforcement and police real enforcement power for the first time. Crestwood Drive residents upset about an absentee-landlord Airbnb in their single-family neighborhood pushed for a ban instead, but the board said regulation was the balance it chose.
Proposed Short-Term Rental Law
Hamburg now has its first short-term rental law, legalizing and regulating Airbnbs/VRBOs in most residential districts — but not R1 single-family neighborhoods. Two speakers urged allowing STRs in R1 via special use permits, and the board said it will consider that feedback.
Mission Hills Phase IV Dumpster Locations
The board reviewed as-built dumpster locations for Mission Hills Villas Phase IV after engineering inspections noted unapproved placement. A public hearing was scheduled for September 2.
Southwestern Boulevard Automated Coffee Shop Proposal
The board evaluated a new drive-thru coffee shop at McKinley Mall, focusing on vehicle stacking, pedestrian safety, and mall parking lot coordination.
Southtowns Early Learning Nest Daycare Approval
A proposed daycare center at 4090 Jeffrey Boulevard seeks to serve 66 children in an industrial zone, prompting planning board review of traffic circulation, fencing, and parking.
Subdivision and Housing Development across Town
The planning board reviewed multiple subdivision proposals for single-family homes and duplexes in Hoover Beach, Scranton Road, and Cedar Valley Way, addressing lot sizes, setbacks, and neighborhood character.
Gateway Building Mixed-Use Redevelopment
Developers presented updated plans for condos, restaurants, hotel space, and meeting areas at the former Bethlehem Steel site, addressing parking and landscaping.
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.
Subdivision at 58 North Shore Drive
A homeowner successfully split his lot to build a home for his daughter and grandchildren returning from North Carolina. The board found the project fit well within neighborhood character without causing negative impacts.
Ten Lives Club Animal Rescue Expansion at 3747 Lakeshore Road
Ten Lives Club is seeking to expand its feline rescue services into an existing building next door at 3747 Lakeshore Road. The planning board issued a negative environmental declaration, allowing the project to proceed to the zoning board for a use variance.
Slade Park Building Expansion at 5600 McKinley Parkway
The Erie County Agricultural Society is proposing a new 32,850-square-foot building in Slade Park to host events year-round, replacing older structures.
Brandon Santa Warehouse Project at 0 Lakeshore Road
Residents strongly opposed a proposed six-building warehouse development in Woodlawn, citing clear-cutting of trees, increased noise, light pollution, flooding risks, and safety issues. The planning board tabled the project to April 1 to allow further review by state traffic officials and additional consideration by the applicant.
Residential Demolition and Reconstruction on Non-Conforming Lots
Homeowners seeking to rebuild aging or structurally compromised properties on tight neighborhood lots must navigate area variances to ensure modern building standards can be met.
Cedar Valley Way Subdivision Traffic and Drainage Concerns
Residents near Cedar Valley Way raised concerns that adding another home and driveway will worsen neighborhood traffic from the 144 existing homes and nearby apartments. The board agreed to consult the Traffic Safety Advisory Board and review drainage plans before deciding.