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.
Proposed Data Center Moratorium
The board is considering pausing all new large-scale data center approvals for a year while the Code Review Committee updates zoning rules for these power- and water-hungry facilities. It's about protecting residents, infrastructure, and neighborhood character while the town figures out the right regulations.
Camp Road corridor safety
The Camp Road corridor remains on the board's docket as a safety concern. Any recommendations would likely go to the town and highway department.
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.
100% Disabled Veterans Property Tax Exemption Implementation
Hamburg adopted the state's 100% total and permanent disabled veterans property tax exemption. Veterans advocates thanked the board and said they'll keep pushing to extend benefits to all veterans and seek county and federal cost-sharing.
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.
Benderson Development Tree Clearing and Drainage on Camp Road
Resident Peter Samardak raised alarms about Benderson's plan to clear-cut 30 acres at the old Leisure Land site, citing the town's tree management code and comprehensive plan. The board said it has received emails, inquired with planning consultant Josh Rogers, and will investigate further.
Town-Wide Drainage and Stormwater Management District
The town created a dedicated stormwater district to fund drainage repairs and meet tougher permit rules as heavy precipitation increases. It cleared SEQRA with a negative declaration and is subject to a permissive referendum.
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.