Tonawanda Town public meetings in 2023

Town Board - Regular

The Tonawanda Town Board is holding public hearings and voting on two local laws: one changing the overnight parking ban to November 15–March 15, and another extending the moratorium on development along the coastal side of River Road. The board will also consider numerous resolutions including budget transfers, equipment purchases, contracts, and change orders for sidewalk and curb ramp projects.

• Public hearing and vote on Local Law 7-2023 to change overnight parking ban dates to November 15–March 15
• Public hearing and vote on Local Law 9-2023 to extend the moratorium on development along the coastal side of River Road
• Resolution to approve $140,546.14 for Microsoft Enterprise annual renewal
• Resolution to authorize purchase of two 2024 Ford F-250 XL pickup trucks at $56,645.18 each
• Resolution to approve change orders for sidewalk replacement townwide totaling $446,130 (Contracts A and B)

Zoning Board of Appeals - Regular

The Tonawanda Zoning Board of Appeals will hold hearings on four area variance applications. The main item is a request to build a 320-square-foot open porch attached to a detached garage at 216 Doncaster Rd., which would push the combined garage and porch floor area to 992 square feet, exceeding the 860-square-foot limit. The board will also vote on minutes from the November 15 meeting and adjourn to the next meeting on January 24, 2024.

• Area variance for 320 sq ft open porch at 216 Doncaster Rd., exceeding garage floor area limit of 860 sq ft
• NYSDOT review found no significant traffic impact and no objection to the variance
• Erie County Department of Environment and Planning notified with no response within 30 days
• Approval of minutes from November 15, 2023 ZBA meeting

Planning Board - Regular

The Tonawanda Planning Board will review several preliminary site plans and special use permits, including a battery storage facility at 430 Sawyer Ave., a cannabis dispensary at 1699 Military Road, and a dog day care conversion of the former Greenhaven Library at 350 Greenhaven Terrace. The board will also discuss a rezoning request at 1103 Brighton Road for auto repair expansion and a revised site plan at 176 Vulcan Street. These are discussions only; no final decisions are scheduled.

• 430 Sawyer Ave. – Battery storage facility (discussion)
• 1699 Military Road – Cannabis dispensary (discussion)
• 350 Greenhaven Terrace – Conversion of former Greenhaven Library to dog day care (discussion)
• 1103 Brighton Road – Rezone from Residential to Commercial for auto repair expansion (discussion)
• 176 Vulcan Street – Revised site plan with storage pods (discussion)

Town Board - Regular

The Tonawanda Town Board will hold public hearings and vote on several items, including a rezoning request for 1103 Brighton Road from residential to general business, a $300,000 streetlight upgrade on Colonial Avenue, and a license agreement with Gibby Consulting Group for youth department sponsorships. The board will also consider a PILOT agreement for 55 Ralston Avenue, insurance renewal at $1.25 million, and call hearings on winter parking restrictions and extending the River Road development moratorium.

• Rezone 1103 Brighton Road from 'A' First Residential to 'C' General Business District
• Streetlight acquisition and upgrade on Colonial Avenue, maximum cost $300,000
• License agreement with Gibby Consulting Group LLC for youth, parks and recreation sponsorships
• PILOT agreement with Westchester Park Preservation for 55 Ralston Avenue
• Insurance policy renewal at total premium of $1,252,057.20

Town Board - Regular

The Tonawanda Town Board is holding a regular meeting with a mix of administrative and substantive items. Key decisions include a proposed battery energy storage system at 430 Sawyer Avenue, a rezone hearing for 1103 Brighton Road, and several infrastructure contracts for sewer lining and concrete replacement. The board will also consider a grievance settlement with the HEATT union and a joint SWAT team agreement with Kenmore.

• Agreement with Eolian L.P. for battery energy storage system at 430 Sawyer Avenue
• Public hearing set for Dec. 4 on rezone of 1103 Brighton Road from residential to general business
• Sewer lining contract for Old Town (CDBG 2023) at $450,974 to Kenyon Pipeline Inspection
• Change orders for concrete replacement: $49,350 decrease (P&J Construction) and $115,217 decrease (Campobello Construction)
• Joint SWAT team intermunicipal agreement with Village of Kenmore

Zoning Board of Appeals - Regular

The Tonawanda Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on two area variance requests. One involves a 29-foot-wide driveway at 212 Willowgrove, exceeding the 20-foot limit. The board will also vote on approving the October 18, 2023 meeting minutes and may decide on the appeals or defer to the next meeting.

• Area variance appeal 2023-52: Paul Cartone, 212 Willowgrove, for 29-foot driveway (limit 20 feet)
• Area variance appeal 2023-53: second variance request (details not specified)
• Approval of minutes from October 18, 2023 meeting
• Next meeting scheduled for December 20, 2023

Town Board - Budget - Regular

The Tonawanda Town Board is holding a public hearing on the 2024 preliminary budget, which includes a $52,449,582 tax levy (up 1.85%) and $116,673,871 in appropriations (up 4.5%). The board will vote to adopt the budget as amended, along with resolutions on base proportions, delinquent water charges, and a settlement. The budget stays under the NYS tax cap for the 13th consecutive year.

• 2024 preliminary budget adoption: $52,449,582 tax levy, $116,673,871 appropriations
• Resolution to adopt 2024 base proportions for assessment roll (RP-6701/RP-6703)
• Authorization for delinquent water charges ($1,080,609.86) and highway cleanup ($58,171.41)
• Settlement of Article 7 proceeding for Kenwell Property LLC, 3456 Delaware Avenue
• Public hearing on 2024 preliminary budget including special districts

Planning Board - Regular

The Town of Tonawanda Planning Board will hold its regular meeting on November 1, 2023, to review and take action on several site plans, special use permits, and a rezoning request. Key actions include site plan reviews for a towing facility at 101 Grand Island Blvd. and a mixed-use project at 645 Sheridan Drive, along with discussions on preliminary proposals for a battery storage facility, a dog day care, and pickleball courts. The board will also discuss a rezoning at 1103 Brighton Road and other townwide items.

• 101 Grand Island Blvd. – Frank Brown Towing, maintenance facility and impound lot, SEQR determination and site plan review (action)
• 645 Sheridan Drive – Mixed use project, parking waiver, SEQR determination, and site plan review (action)
• 430 Sawyer Ave. – Battery storage facility (discussion)
• 350 Greenhaven Terrace – Conversion of former Greenhaven Library to dog day care (discussion)
• 1103 Brighton Road – Rezone from Residential to Commercial for auto repair expansion (discussion)

Town Board - Regular

The Tonawanda Town Board will hold public hearings and vote on agreements with fire districts and the Village of Kenmore for industrial and park fire protection. The board will also consider a $118,100 emergency road repair contract, a $53,203 software renewal, and a $3 million grant match for water plant upgrades.

• Public hearing and vote on Industrial Fire Protection District #1 agreement with five fire districts and Village of Kenmore
• Public hearing and vote on fire protection agreements for Deerhurst Park District #2 and North Delaware District #3 with Village of Kenmore
• Resolution to authorize $118,100 in emergency repairs to asphalt, storm sewer, and sidewalks at Parker Boulevard and Darlington Drive
• Resolution to authorize $3,000,000 in matching funds for a state grant for Water Plant Filter Upgrades (Job 3102)
• Resolution to authorize $53,203.19 for yearly renewal of SOPHOS cybersecurity software

Zoning Board of Appeals - Regular

The Tonawanda Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a reconsideration hearing on a previously granted variance for a utility building at 2737 Colvin Blvd., and will hear four new area variance requests. The board will also vote on minutes from the September 20, 2023 meeting.

• Reconsideration of ZBA 2023-35 for a utility building encroaching 1 ft 8 in into rear setback and 1 ft 1 in into side setback at 2737 Colvin Blvd.
• Area variance for a 1,254 sq ft garage and porch exceeding size, height, and door height limits at 424 Fries Road.
• Area variance for an 8-ft fence for a commercial dog enclosure at 231 Grand Island Blvd., exceeding the 6-ft limit.
• Area variance for a 288 sq ft accessory structure exceeding the 144 sq ft limit at 101 St Clare Ter.
• Area variance for four heat pump condensers installed in the front yard at 250 Montrose Ave, where prohibited.

Town Board - Regular

The Tonawanda Town Board will consider the 2024 preliminary budget and set a public hearing for November 9, 2023. The agenda also includes multiple resolutions for contracts, equipment purchases, and a minor subdivision at 141 Cleveland Drive.

• Public hearing set for November 9, 2023 on the 2024 preliminary budget
• Public hearing set for October 30, 2023 on fire protection agreements with the Village of Kenmore
• Public hearing set for October 30, 2023 on a minor subdivision at 141 Cleveland Drive
• Approval of a $30,000 CDBG subrecipient agreement with the Boys and Girls Club of the Northtowns
• Approval of a $18,000 consulting agreement with Fitch & Associates to explore expanding the Town's Emergency Medical Unit

Planning Board - Regular

The Tonawanda Planning Board will vote on site plans and SEQR determinations for a towing/impound lot at 101 Grand Island Blvd., a brewery at 2765 Kenmore Ave., and a cannabis-related business at 900 Niagara Falls Blvd. They will also discuss a battery storage facility at 430 Sawyer Ave. and a truck repair building at 430 Sheridan Drive. The agenda includes several rezoning items and a townwide rezoning project.

• 101 Grand Island Blvd. – Frank Brown Towing, maintenance facility and impound lot (SEQR and site plan review)
• 2765 Kenmore Ave. – Beer Kind Brewing (SEQR and site plan review)
• 900 Niagara Falls Blvd. – Cannabis sales, change of use (SEQR and site plan review)
• 430 Sawyer Ave. – Battery storage facility (preliminary discussion)
• 1121 Sheridan Drive – John's Towing, 4,800 sq ft building for truck repair (preliminary discussion)

Town Board - Regular

The Town Board will hear the 2024 tentative budget message from the supervisor and vote on several resolutions, including a performance standards use permit for a brewery at 2765 Kenmore Avenue and a design/fabrication facility at 700 Colvin Woods Parkway. Other items include a $4 million sanitary sewer lining project, a road salt purchase, and a battery energy storage facility review.

• 2024 tentative budget message to be presented by Supervisor Emminger
• Performance standards use permit for Montante Construction LLC brewery at 2765 Kenmore Avenue
• Performance standards use permit for Montante Construction LLC design/fabrication facility at 700 Colvin Woods Parkway
• Expiration of permissive referendum for $4,000,000 sanitary sewer lining project
• Purchase of 7,500 tons of road salt at $40.00/ton (picked up) or $45.01/ton (delivered)

Zoning Board of Appeals - Regular

The Tonawanda Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on six area variance requests. Items include a garage height increase at 4 Fairlane Avenue, a widened driveway at 850 Creekside Drive, and four other appeals. Decisions may be rendered at the meeting or at the next meeting on October 18, 2023.

• Dennis Kerr seeks to increase previously approved garage height from 17 feet to 18 feet 6 inches at 4 Fairlane Avenue (A-First Residential zone)
• John Krzyzanowski requests variance for a 32-foot-wide driveway (limit 20 feet) using stone instead of concrete/blacktop at 850 Creekside Drive
• Four additional area variance appeals (ZBA 2023-42, -43, -44, -12) will be heard
• Board will vote on minutes from the August 16, 2023 meeting

Town Board - Regular

The Tonawanda Town Board is holding public hearings and voting on several items, including adopting a new purchasing law with Best Value practices, extending the moratorium on development along the coastal side of River Road, and granting a special use permit for a vehicle repair facility and impound lot at 101 Grand Island Boulevard. The board will also consider resolutions on unsafe buildings, budget transfers, and various contracts and purchases.

• Adopt Local Law 6-2023 to repeal and replace Chapter 28 (Purchasing) with Best Value practices
• Adopt Local Law 7-2023 to extend the moratorium on development along the coastal side of River Road
• Special use permit for Frank Brown Towing vehicle repair facility and impound lot at 101 Grand Island Boulevard
• Unsafe building hearing for 140 Dupont Avenue owned by Mary Beth Aaron
• Purchase and installation of safety netting ($153,035) and turf ($124,401) for Lincoln Fieldhouse Conversion

The Town Board adopted two local laws, one updating purchasing practices and another extending a development moratorium on the coastal side of River Road. The Board also issued a negative environmental declaration for a proposed towing facility.

• Adopted Local Law 6-2023 to repeal and replace Chapter 28 regarding purchasing (5-0)
• Adopted Local Law 7-2023 to extend the development moratorium along the coastal side of River Road (5-0)
• Issued negative declaration for Frank Brown Towing special use permit at 101 Grand Island Boulevard (5-0)
• Approved minutes from August 14, 2023 meeting
• Entered executive session to discuss personnel and litigation matters (5-0)

Planning Board - Regular

The Tonawanda Planning Board will consider multiple site plan reviews, special use permits, and performance standards permits at its September 6, 2023 meeting. Actions are scheduled for a bakery at 838 Niagara Falls Blvd., a mixed-use project at 645 Sheridan Drive, and a truck maintenance facility at 3755 River Road. Discussions include a battery storage facility, a cannabis sales change of use, an event center, and a brewery. The board will also take up rezoning items and other business.

• 838 Niagara Falls Blvd. – take out bakery, removal of greenspace contingency (action)
• 645 Sheridan Drive – mixed-use project, vacant over 6 months (action)
• 3755 River Road – Casella Truck Maintenance Facility, 17,500 sf (action)
• 410 Sawyer Ave. – Battery Storage facility (discussion)
• 900 Niagara Falls Blvd. – Cannabis sales, change of use (discussion)

The Planning Board approved site plan transfers for wind turbines and a truck maintenance facility at 3755 River Road. The board also removed a landscaping condition for a bakery and tabled several other site plan requests pending further documentation.

• Approved site plan transfer to Casella Waste Systems Inc. for two wind turbines at 3755 River Road (Unanimous)
• Approved site plan transfer and amendment to Casella Waste Systems Inc. for a recycling and truck maintenance facility at 3755 River Road (Unanimous)
• Removed landscaping contingency for take-out bakery at 838 Niagara Falls Blvd (4-0)
• Tabled site plan for mixed-use project at 645 Sheridan Drive pending parking waiver and SEQR review
• Tabled site plan for battery storage facility at 410 Sawyer Ave pending full application, SEQR review, and easement
• Approved August 2, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)

Commission for the Conservation of the Environment - Regular

The Tonawanda Planning Board will consider several site plan reviews and special use permits, including actions on a bakery at 838 Niagara Falls Blvd., a mixed-use project at 645 Sheridan Drive, and a truck maintenance facility at 3755 River Road. Discussions are scheduled for a battery storage facility, oil change facility, cannabis sales, event center, commercial parking, auto repair, brewery, and design facility. The board will also discuss rezoning and other items like the Brighton Park redevelopment and townwide rezoning project.

• 838 Niagara Falls Blvd. – take out bakery, removal of contingency for greenspace (action)
• 645 Sheridan Drive – Mixed use project, vacant over 6 months (action)
• 3755 River Road – Casella Truck Maintenance Facility 17,500 sf (action)
• 101 Grand Island Blvd. – Frank Brown Towing, Maintenance facility and impound lot (status, SEQR, discussion)
• 410 Sawyer Ave. – Battery Storage facility (discussion)

The Planning Board approved site plan transfers for wind turbines and a maintenance facility at 3755 River Road. The board also removed a landscaping condition for a bakery at 838 Niagara Falls Blvd and tabled several other projects pending further review.

• Approved minutes of August 2, 2023 (4-0)
• Removed landscaping contingency for bakery at 838 Niagara Falls Blvd (4-0)
• Tabled site plan for 645 Sheridan Drive pending parking waiver and SEQR review
• Approved transfer of site plan for two wind turbines at 3755 River Road to Casella Waste Systems Inc. (Unanimous)
• Approved transfer and amendment of site plan for construction/debris recycling and truck maintenance facility at 3755 River Road to Casella Waste Systems Inc. (Unanimous)
• Tabled site plan for battery storage facility at 410 Sawyer Ave pending full application, SEQR review, and easement
• Issued Negative Declaration for Take 5 Oil Change at 1456 Niagara Falls Blvd

Zoning Board of Appeals - Regular

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved two area variance requests for residential properties. One allows for a new two-car garage that encroaches into a rear yard setback, and the other permits a standby generator in a front yard.

• Approved minutes of July 19, 2023 meeting (Unanimous)
• Granted area variance for Stephen Kineke MD at 10 Gardenwood Lane to build a two-car garage encroaching into the rear yard setback (Unanimous)
• Granted area variance for Shannon Nixon at 311 Hampton Parkway to install a standby generator in the front yard, conditioned on landscaping (Unanimous)

Town Board - Regular

The Town Board rezoned a subdivided portion of 3939 Delaware Avenue to a Performance Standards Use District. Additionally, the board approved a major subdivision of that property into four sublots for I-290 Colvin Associates LLC.

• Approved rezoning of subdivided portion of 3939 Delaware Avenue to PS Performance Standards Use District (5-0)
• Approved major subdivision of 3939 Delaware Avenue into 4 sublots for I-290 Colvin Associates LLC (5-0)
• Authorized Supervisor to sign Certification of Findings for the 3939 Delaware Avenue subdivision (5-0)
• Approved minutes of the July 31, 2023 meeting (5-0)

SEQR - Regular

The committee determined that the interior renovation of senior housing at 55 Ralston Avenue is a Type II activity. A site plan review for 1456 Niagara Falls Boulevard was tabled pending further documentation. Other projects and safety concerns were discussed without formal action.

• Approved July 17, 2023 minutes (5-0)
• Determined 55 Ralston Avenue (Westchester Apartments) is a Type II activity
• Tabled 1456 Niagara Falls Boulevard Site Plan Review & Special Use Permit

Library Board - Regular

The Board of Trustees approved the meeting agenda and the treasurer's report for monthly expenses. The session included a review of July statistics for the Kenmore and Kenilworth branches and a report on contract reorganization progress.

• Approved the agenda
• Accepted treasurer's report and approved payment of monthly expenses

Planning Board - Regular

The Tonawanda Planning Board will consider several site plan reviews, special use permits, and rezoning proposals. Items include a landscape amendment for Bison Botanical at 1100 Military Road, a maintenance facility and impound lot for Frank Brown Towing at 101 Grand Island Blvd., and preliminary reviews for a Take 5 Oil Change, an event center, and other commercial projects. The board will also discuss rezoning for multiple properties, including a bio-solids project and battery storage.

• 1100 Military Road – Bison Botanical landscape amendment (action)
• 101 Grand Island Blvd. – Frank Brown Towing maintenance facility and impound lot (action)
• 1456 Niagara Falls Blvd. – Take 5 Oil Change, 1610 sf facility (discussion)
• 3755 River Road – Casella Truck Maintenance Facility, 17,500 sf (discussion)
• Rezoning discussions: 410 Sawyer Ave. battery storage, Brighton Park redevelopment, townwide rezoning

The Planning Board recommended approval of a special use permit for a vehicle repair and impound lot. The board also approved a site plan extension for a residential conversion and an amended landscape plan for a cannabis facility.

• Recommended approval of Special Use Permit for Frank Brown Towing at 101 Grand Island Blvd (6-0)
• Approved 12-month extension for site plan and performance standards use permit at 2101 Kenmore Ave (6-0)
• Approved amended site plan for Northeast Botanicals Distribution at 1100 Military Road (6-0)
• Tabled site plan approval for Frank Brown Towing pending Town Board approval and SEQR review
• Tabled Take 5 Oil Change at 1456 Niagara Falls Blvd (6-0)
• Tabled Event Center at 4279 Delaware Ave (6-0)
• Tabled commercial parking at 276 Two Mile Creek Road (6-0)
• Approved July 5, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0)

Town Board - Regular

The Town Board will vote on a $200,000 expenditure for centrifuge technology upgrades at the wastewater treatment plant, following the expiration of a permissive referendum. They will also hold a public hearing and consider a resolution to declare 1740 Military Road an unsafe building under Chapter 58 of the town code. Other actions include approving bids for the Lincoln Fieldhouse conversion (totaling over $1.1 million) and a site lease with Dish Wireless for antenna equipment at 1275 Parker Boulevard.

• Expenditure of up to $200,000 from Repair Reserve for centrifuge upgrades at the Wastewater Treatment Plant (Job 3142)
• Public hearing and resolution to declare 1740 Military Road an unsafe building
• Award of low bids for Lincoln Fieldhouse conversion: $518,500 (insulation/roof), $78,927 (ice rink demolition), $529,000 (HVAC)
• Site lease agreement with Dish Wireless for antenna collocation on water tank at 1275 Parker Boulevard
• Rejection of bid for YPR Enhancement Project at Brighton Complex (Grove Building) due to being over budget

The Town Board determined that the property at 1740 Military Road is in violation of the town's unsafe building code and directed the Supervising Building Inspector to secure the building. The board also approved several community event permits and personnel appointments.

• Declared building at 1740 Military Road unsafe and ordered it be secured (4-0)
• Approved St. Amelia's 5K Run/Walk for September 9, 2023 (4-0)
• Approved block party request for Grosvenor Rd on September 3rd (4-0)
• Approved loan of town equipment to Ken-Ton Elmwood Commons for SummerFest (4-0)
• Appointed Susan Szymanski as Personnel Supervisor effective August 3, 2023 (4-0)
• Appointed Susan Szymanski as Permanent Representative to the Labor Management Health Care Coalition, Inc. (4-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals - Regular

The Tonawanda Zoning Board of Appeals is holding hearings on 12 area variance appeals. Decisions will be rendered tonight or at the next meeting on August 16, 2023. The agenda includes a request to construct a digital billboard sign where prohibited by zoning, as well as residential variances for a deck, accessory structure, and driveway width.

• Lawrence Vann seeks a variance for a digital billboard at 391 Crestmount Ave., prohibited in the C-1 district and within 850 feet of another billboard (required 1,000 ft).
• Catherine Mary Gamel requests a variance for a 6'x34' deck at 275 Bannard Ave. that would encroach 5 ft into the 6-ft side yard setback.
• Carl Crocker seeks a variance for a second accessory structure at 209 Willowgrove S, where only one is allowed.
• Jack Kohler requests a variance for a driveway width of 34 ft 2 in at 345 Desmond Drive, exceeding the 19 ft 8 in limit.

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a use and area variance for a digital billboard on Town-owned land. Two other variance requests regarding a church pavilion and a residential fence were tabled.

• Approved use and area variances for digital billboard at 391 Crestmount Ave (Unanimous)
• Tabled area variance for pavilion and fencing at Slavonic Christian Church (Unanimous)
• Tabled area variance for 6-foot side yard fence at 158 Lyndale Ave (Unanimous)
• Approved June 21, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)

Town Board - Regular

The Tonawanda Town Board will hold public hearings and consider adopting two local laws: one to add best-value purchasing practices for certain contracts, and another to update tax exemption qualifications for volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers. The board will also vote on numerous resolutions, including a $20,000 police grant, a $29,340 water intake inspection contract, and a $138,890 bid for ice rink bleachers at Brighton Complex. Additionally, the board will consider rejecting bids for inclusive playgrounds at Kenney and Mang Parks due to budget overruns.

• Public hearing and vote on Local Law 3-2023 to add best-value purchasing practices
• Public hearing and vote on Local Law 4-2023 to update tax exemptions for volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers
• Resolution to accept $20,000 Erie County grant for the Police Department
• Resolution to award $138,890 low bid for YPR Enhancement Project Bid Package 12 (ice rink bleachers) at Brighton Complex
• Resolution to reject bids for Kenney Park and Mang Park inclusive playgrounds due to being over budget

The Town Board enacted Local Law 4-2023 to implement best value practices for purchase contracts and Local Law 5-2023 to update tax exemption qualifications for volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers. The Board also approved eight block party requests and several personnel salary and title changes.

• Adopted Local Law 4-2023 adding a 'Purchasing' chapter to the Town Code (5-0)
• Adopted Local Law 5-2023 amending 'Taxation' for volunteer emergency worker exemptions (5-0)
• Approved 8 block party requests with open container exemptions (5-0)
• Created Personnel Supervisor ($95,000/year) and Accounting Clerk ($5,000 stipend) positions (5-0)
• Increased Deputy Town Clerk A pay to $66,000 and Clerk Typist/Town Clerk pay to $51,654 (5-0)
• Adopted new job title: Senior Account Clerk Typist Group VII (4 positions) (5-0)
• Approved hire of 7 part-time Recreation Attendants A at $14.20/hr (5-0)
• Approved hire of Kayleigh A. Stack as Police Officer 1-Recruit at $69,395/year (5-0)

SEQR - Regular

The SEQR Committee recommended that the Town Board issue negative declarations for a biosolids facility and a truck maintenance garage. The committee also recommended negative declarations for a towing storage lot and an outdoor storage expansion. Two projects were tabled pending the submission of Environmental Assessment Forms.

• Recommended Town Board issue negative declaration and LWRP consistency certification for 779 Two Mile Creek Road biosolids facility (5-0)
• Recommended Town Board issue negative declaration and LWRP consistency certification for 3755 River Road truck maintenance garage (5-0)
• Determined 88 Vulcan Street site plan is a Type II action requiring no further review
• Determined 838 Niagara Falls Boulevard site plan is a Type II action requiring no further review
• Tabled 1456 Niagara Falls Boulevard oil change facility pending short form EAF
• Tabled 276 Two Mile Creek Road vehicle storage project pending short form EAF
• Recommended Town Board/Planning Board issue negative declaration for 101 Grand Island Boulevard towing lot (5-0)
• Recommended Town Board/Planning Board issue negative declaration for 176 Vulcan Street storage expansion (5-0)

Commission for the Conservation of the Environment - Regular

The Commission reviewed preparations for the Ken-Ton Garden Tour and discussed a potential fall speaker event. Members noted resident concerns regarding the NFT Metro rail project on Niagara Falls Blvd, stating the town has no say in the federal project. No formal votes or policy decisions were recorded.

Planning Board - Regular

The Tonawanda Planning Board will discuss 10 preliminary site plans and one site plan amendment, including a mixed-use building at 88 Vulcan Street, a Take 5 Oil Change at 1456 Niagara Falls Blvd., and an event center at 4279 Delaware Ave. The board will also consider a landscape amendment for Bison Botanical at 1100 Military Road and a rezoning for the Colvin Woods project involving IMA Life, cemetery property sale, and subdivision approvals. No final decisions are expected on most items, as they are listed as discussions.

• 1100 Military Road – Bison Botanical landscape amendment (action)
• 88 Vulcan Street – Mixed-use building (discussion)
• 1456 Niagara Falls Blvd. – Take 5 Oil Change, 1,610 sf facility (discussion)
• 4279 Delaware Ave. – Event center (discussion)
• Colvin Woods – IMA Life facility, cemetery sale, rezoning, and subdivision (discussion)

The Planning Board approved a site plan for a mixed-use building at 88 Vulcan Street. The board also recommended the transfer and amendment of a performance standards use permit for a truck maintenance and recycling facility at 3755 River Road. Several other site plan applications were tabled pending further documentation or variances.

• Approved site plan for mixed-use building at 88 Vulcan Street (5-0)
• Recommended approval to transfer and amend Performance Standards Use Permit for Casella Waste Systems Inc. at 3755 River Road (5-0)
• Approved June 7, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Tabled landscape amendment for Bison Botanical at 1100 Military Road
• Tabled Take 5 Oil Change at 1456 Niagara Falls Blvd pending ZBA variance approval
• Tabled event center at 4279 Delaware Ave pending drawings and parking waiver
• Tabled Frank Brown Towing at 101 Grand Island Blvd pending fence and sidewalk details
• Tabled revised site plan for 176 Vulcan Street pending landscape drawings and fence details

Town Board - Regular

The Tonawanda Town Board will consider 29 resolutions, including purchases of body-worn cameras for police, two fairway mowers for parks, and a grinder pump elimination study. The board will also vote on a naming rights sponsorship for Brighton Park and the Golf Dome, and a school resource officer MOU with Ken-Ton schools.

• Purchase of body-worn cameras and equipment for Police Department from Axon Enterprise Inc.
• Expenditure of up to $150,000 from General Fund Equipment Capital Reserve for two fairway mowers for Youth, Parks & Recreation.
• Letter of intent with Paddock Chevrolet for naming rights and sponsorship of Brighton Park improvements and the Golf Dome.
• Memorandum of Understanding with Ken-Ton Union Free School District for School Resource Officers.
• Expenditure of up to $200,000 from Sewer Repair Reserve for centrifuge technology upgrades at the Wastewater Treatment Plant.

The Town Board approved hourly rate increases for part-time paramedic trainees and paramedics. The board also authorized several personnel changes, new hires for the Youth, Parks & Recreation and Highway departments, and two block party requests.

• Approved hourly pay increases for part-time Paramedic-Trainee, A, and B effective July 27, 2023
• Approved two block party requests for Stoneleigh Ave and Puritan Rd (5-0)
• Approved attendance requests for Jefferson Summer Camp field trips (5-0)
• Approved new hires, re-hires, and status changes for Youth, Parks & Recreation (5-0)
• Approved new hire and status changes for the Highway Department (5-0)
• Amended resolutions to reinstate David Baran as School Crossing Guard PT and add a residency waiver for Emily Haskins (5-0)
• Approved minutes from the June 5, 2023 meeting

SEQR - Regular

The SEQR Committee recommended a negative declaration for a retail and event space conversion at 4279 Delaware Avenue. The committee determined a local law regarding taxation for volunteer emergency workers required no further review. A proposal for a biosolids/biochar facility at the Wastewater Treatment Plant was tabled.

• Approved May 11, 2023 minutes (5-0)
• Recommended Town Board issue negative declaration for 4279 Delaware Avenue site plan (5-0)
• Determined Local Law re: Chapter 189 - Taxation is a Type II action requiring no further review
• Tabled 779 Two Mile Creek Road WWTP Biosolids/Biochar Facility

Planning Board - Regular

The Town of Tonawanda Planning Board will hold its regular meeting on June 7, 2023, with actions on a site plan and SEQR determination for a warehousing project at 1110 Military Road. The board will also discuss multiple preliminary site plans, including mixed-use, commercial, and industrial proposals, as well as a rezoning and other items. Public comment is scheduled.

• 1110 Military Road – Warehousing, SEQR determination and site plan (action)
• 88 Vulcan Street – Mixed Use building (discussion)
• 1456 Niagara Falls Blvd. – Take 5 Oil Change, 1,610 sf facility (discussion)
• 3755 River Road – Casella Truck Maintenance Facility, 17,500 sf (discussion)
• 410 Sawyer Ave. – Battery Storage (rezoning discussion)

The Planning Board approved site plans for a warehouse at 1110 Military Road and parking improvements for Zion United Church of Christ. The board also recommended transferring special use permits for wind turbines at 3755 River Road. Several other development projects were tabled pending further documentation.

• Approved site plan for warehousing at 1110 Military Road (5-0)
• Approved site plan for Zion United Church of Christ parking lot improvements at 15 Koenig Circle (5-0)
• Recommended approval to transfer wind turbine special use permits from Triad Recycling to Casella Waste Systems Inc. at 3755 River Road (5-0)
• Tabled site plan for mixed-use building at 88 Vulcan Street pending revised floor and landscape plans
• Tabled site plan for Take 5 Oil Change at 1456 Niagara Falls Blvd pending variance and SEQR review
• Removed 1411 and 1425 Military Road addition from agenda after applicant terminated project (5-0)
• Tabled site plan for Frank Brown Towing at 101 Grand Island Blvd (5-0)
• Tabled site plan for auto repair and sales at 311 Kenmore Ave (5-0)

Town Board - Regular

The Town Board approved a minor subdivision for 225 East Park Drive and determined a building at 396 Niagara Falls Blvd to be unsafe. The board also authorized two block parties and approved several personnel changes and pay rate adjustments.

• Approved minor subdivision of 225 East Park Drive into two lots (5-0)
• Declared building at 396 Niagara Falls Blvd unsafe and in violation of Chapter 58 (5-0)
• Approved two block party requests for Fayette Ave and 300 Block of Athens (5-0)
• Created Supervising Code Enforcement Officer PT position at $48.50/Hour (5-0)
• Increased Assessor salary from $93,350/year to $110,000/year (5-0)
• Approved 8 Recreation Attendant A P/T hires at $14.20/Hr (5-0)
• Approved Clerk F P/T hire for Justice Court at $16.55/Hr (5-0)
• Approved Public Safety Dispatcher B P/T hire at $20.15/Hr (5-0)

Town Board - Regular

The Tonawanda Town Board is holding a public hearing and voting on a local law to prohibit dumping or plowing snow onto disabled parking spaces. The board will also consider resolutions including a $730,000 bond for police equipment, acceptance of multiple low bids totaling over $12.2 million for the Youth Parks and Recreation (YPR) Enhancement Project at the Brighton complex, and various contracts and budget amendments.

• Local Law 2-2023: prohibit dumping or plowing snow onto disabled parking spaces
• Bond resolution for $730,000 for police department equipment (Axon T10)
• Accept low bids for Job 3057 YPR Enhancement Project: general trades $1,774,625, hockey rink $2,460,000, plumbing $682,000, HVAC $1,415,000, electrical $1,380,000, site work $4,501,700
• Accept low bid of $98,000 from Parise Mechanical Inc. for Memorial Hall boiler replacement (Job 3063)
• Approve $150,000 from General Fund Equipment Capital Reserve for two fairway mowers

The Town Board enacted Local Law 3-2023 to prohibit dumping or plowing snow onto parking spaces for people with disabilities. The board also approved several personnel appointments, including a new Town Assessor, and authorized the submission of a HUD Fourth-Year Action Plan.

• Adopted Local Law 3-2023 prohibiting snow plowing into disabled parking spaces (5-0)
• Approved appointment of Jill Marie Murphy as Town Assessor effective June 5, 2023 (5-0)
• Approved various new hires and status changes for Youth Parks & Recreation, Engineering, and Town Clerk (5-0)
• Created one new competitive civil service position for Junior Information Technology Engineer (5-0)
• Granted St. Amelia's School permission for a bonfire on May 25, 2023 (5-0)
• Authorized Supervisor to execute the U.S. HUD Fourth-Year Action Plan for CDBG, HOME, and ESG funds (5-0)
• Approved minutes from May 8 and May 12, 2023 meetings (5-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals - Regular

The Tonawanda Zoning Board of Appeals is holding public hearings on six area variance requests. The applicants seek to exceed code limits on driveway width, garage size, and garage height on residential properties. Decisions may be made tonight or at the next meeting on June 21.

• Darleen Janiec Gentzke seeks a variance for a 20-foot-wide driveway at 12 Zimmerman Blvd (limit is 13 ft 4 in).
• Dennis Kerr seeks variances for a 1,030 sq ft total garage and 17 ft height at 4 Fairlane Ave (limits: 860 sq ft, 15 ft).
• Four additional unnamed appeals (2023-12, 2023-13, 2023-14) are also on the agenda.

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved two area variance requests for residential properties. One request allowed for a wider driveway, and another permitted the construction of a second accessory structure.

• Approved minutes of April 19, 2023 meeting (Unanimous)
• Granted area variance for Darleen Janiec Gentzke at 12 Zimmerman Blvd to increase driveway width to 20 feet (Unanimous)
• Granted area variance for John Puccio at 321 Paramount Pkwy to erect a second accessory structure (greenhouse) (Unanimous)

Town Board - Special

The Tonawanda Town Board is holding a special meeting to consider a resolution authorizing the supervisor and labor relations director to file disciplinary charges against employee Kristopher D. Kinsella for incompetence and/or misconduct. The resolution would also allow suspending Kinsella without pay pending the outcome and imposing discipline up to and including discharge.

• Resolution RES-2023-393 to prefer disciplinary charges against employee Kristopher D. Kinsella for incompetence and/or misconduct
• Authorizes suspension without pay pending disposition of charges
• Authorizes discipline up to and including discharge if employee appeals through grievance procedure

The Town Board approved Resolution 2023-393, authorizing the Town Supervisor and/or Director of Labor Relations to prefer disciplinary charges against employee Kristopher D. Kinsella for incompetence and/or misconduct. The authorization includes the power to suspend the employee without pay and potentially impose discipline up to discharge.

• Adopted Resolution 2023-393 to authorize disciplinary charges, suspension without pay, and potential discharge of employee Kristopher D. Kinsella (5-0)

SEQR - Regular

The committee recommended that the Town Board issue negative declarations for subdivisions at 225 East Park Drive and a permit for 1110 Military Road. It also approved recommendations for a major subdivision and rezone at 3939 Delaware Avenue. Two other site plan matters were tabled.

• Approved April 18, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Recommended Town Board issue negative declaration for 225 East Park Drive subdivision (5-0)
• Recommended Town Board/Planning Board issue negative declaration for 1110 Military Road site plan and PS Permit (5-0)
• Approved recommendations for 3939 Delaware Avenue major subdivision and rezone (5-0)
• Determined Local Law re: Best Value for Purchasing is a Type II action requiring no further review
• Tabled 1411–1425 Military Road site plan and special use permit
• Tabled 176 Vulcan Street site plan and PS Permit amendment

Commission for the Conservation of the Environment - Regular

The commission approved the previous meeting minutes with small changes. Members discussed the Ken-Ton Garden Tour, Arbor Day tree plantings, and potential future speaker topics regarding tree care and pesticides.

• Approved previous meeting minutes with small changes

Town Board - Regular

The Tonawanda Town Board is holding a public hearing and considering adoption of a local law updating grass, weed, and plant growth regulations. They will also vote on a School Resource Officer agreement with Ken-Ton schools, several contracts for the Lincoln Arena conversion and YPR Enhancement Project, and various other expenditures and change orders.

• Public hearing and potential adoption of Local Law 1-2023 to amend Chapter 108 (Grass, Weeds and Plant Growth)
• Resolution to approve a School Resource Officer agreement with Ken-Ton Union Free School District for two police officers at Kenmore East and West high schools
• Resolution to accept a $20,000 proposal from Encorus Group for the YPR Enhancement Project at Brighton Rink
• Resolution to authorize $26,987 for removal of refrigeration system at Lincoln Arena and $27,700 for professional services for Lincoln Ice Arena conversion
• Resolution to approve a $71,000 change order increase for the Parker Boulevard Complete Streets Initiative

The Town Board adopted Local Law 2-2023, amending Chapter 108 of the Town Code regarding grass, weeds, and plant growth, after a public hearing and a negative SEQR declaration. The board also approved a block party request for 74 Dickens Ave. and a 5K run for Strides for CMV, and authorized $11,976.47 in claim payments. All votes were unanimous 5-0.

• Adopted Local Law 2-2023 amending grass, weeds, and plant growth regulations (5-0)
• Issued negative SEQR declaration for Local Law 1-2023 (5-0)
• Approved block party at 74 Dickens Ave. on May 27 (5-0)
• Approved Strides for CMV 5K run on June 17 (5-0)
• Approved $11,976.47 in claim payments via USI Insurance (5-0)

Planning Board - Regular

The Tonawanda Planning Board is holding a regular meeting to review and take action on several site plans, including a re-approval for senior housing, a new retail vape shop, and an auto sales facility. The board will also discuss preliminary plans for additions, auto repair, a design facility, warehousing, and a revised site plan, as well as rezoning and other items. Public comment is scheduled.

• 3456 Delaware Ave. – Senior Housing, re-approval of expired site plan (action)
• 957 Brighton Road – Retail vape shop, SEQR determination and site plan (action)
• 2172 Niagara Falls Blvd. – Auto Sales, SEQR determination and site plan (action)
• 1411 and 1425 Military Road – 2,600 sf addition (discussion)
• 410 Sawyer Ave. – Battery Storage (rezoning discussion)

The Tonawanda Planning Board approved a site plan for a retail vape shop at 957 Brighton Road with conditions, and granted a 12-month extension for the expired senior housing site plan at 3456 Delaware Ave. The board also recommended zoning 3939 Delaware Ave as Performance Standards Use for IMA Life's design and fabrication facility, and recommended a Performance Standards Use Permit for a warehouse at 1110 Military Road. Several other items were tabled pending further information.

• Approved 12-month extension for senior housing site plan at 3456 Delaware Ave (6-0)
• Approved site plan for retail vape shop at 957 Brighton Road with conditions (6-0)
• Recommended zoning 3939 Delaware Ave as Performance Standards Use (6-0)
• Recommended Performance Standards Use Permit for warehouse at 1110 Military Road (6-0)
• Tabled site plan for 1411/1425 Military Road addition pending amended special use permit
• Tabled site plan for 311 Kenmore Ave auto repair due to applicant no-show
• Tabled site plan for 176 Vulcan Street storage pods pending revised plans
• Approved minutes of April 5, 2023 meeting (6-0)

Town Board - Regular

The Tonawanda Town Board is meeting to vote on a series of resolutions, including contracts, appointments, and budget transfers. Key items include a $321,300 change order for the Oak Hill Brighton Complex construction management, a $15,000 CDBG microenterprise loan, and several service agreements. The agenda also includes routine items like minutes approval, a proclamation, and public comment.

• Change Order No. 1 for Job 3057 - Oak Hill Brighton Complex, increase of $321,300
• $15,000 CDBG Microenterprise Loan to Unique Giant Logistics, LLC
• Casella Waste Management agreement: $75/ton disposal, $225 hauling fee (previously tabled)
• GHD engineering services for WWTP thickener repairs at $27,000
• Kronos annual support renewal at $36,276.84

The Town Board authorized several community events, including a rabies clinic and the Ride for Roswell. The board also approved the appointment of Sharon M. Sullivan to the Library Board and authorized payments for seven insurance claims.

• Authorized Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic for May 6, 2023 (5-0)
• Approved two block party requests at 57 Kelvin Dr. and Berkley St. (5-0)
• Approved Firefighters' Memorial Service for May 29, 2023 (5-0)
• Granted permission for 2023 Ride for Roswell on June 24, 2023 (5-0)
• Appointed Sharon M. Sullivan to the Library Board for a five-year term (5-0)
• Approved $16,341.58 in claim expenses paid by USI Insurance and Benefits (5-0)
• Authorized $50 for Highway Department attendance at urban forestry training (5-0)
• Approved three senior day trips to Erie, PA and Seneca Lake (5-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals - Regular

The Tonawanda Town Zoning Board of Appeals is holding public hearings on four area variance appeals. The only detailed request is from Calogero Campanella for a driveway at 27 Marilyn Court that would be 25 feet wide, exceeding the 20-foot limit. Decisions may be made after the hearings or at the next meeting on May 17, 2023.

• Area variance appeal 2023-4: Calogero Campanella, 27 Marilyn Court, seeks to pave driveway to 25 feet width (limit is 20 feet)
• Three additional area variance appeals (2023-5, 2023-6, 2023-7) with no details provided in the agenda
• Approval of minutes from the March 15, 2023 ZBA meeting
• Adjournment to next ZBA meeting scheduled for May 17, 2023

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved two requests for residential driveway expansions that exceeded local width regulations. The board also approved the minutes from the March 15, 2023, meeting.

• Approved minutes of March 15, 2023 meeting (Unanimous)
• Granted area variance for 25-foot wide driveway at 27 Marilyn Court (Unanimous)
• Granted area variance for 19-foot wide driveway at 93 Brighton Road (Unanimous)

SEQR - Regular

The committee recommended a negative declaration for a local law amending lawn maintenance compliance. Two subdivision applications were tabled pending further information or review. A proposed law regarding snow removal from disabled parking was determined to be a Type II action requiring no further review.

• Recommended Town Board issue negative declaration for Local Law amending Chapter 108 (lawn maintenance) (3-0)
• Determined Local Law amending Chapter 183 (disabled parking snow removal) is a Type II action requiring no further review
• Tabled 225 East Park Drive subdivision pending further documentation
• Tabled 3939 Delaware Avenue major subdivision for departmental review
• Approved March 8, 2023 meeting minutes (3-0)

Town Board - Regular

The Tonawanda Town Board is holding a public hearing and considering a resolution to amend a special use permit for a used automobile sales facility at 2172 Niagara Falls Boulevard. The board will also vote on several resolutions, including awarding a $2,119,000 bid for the YPR Enhancement Project-Brighton Complex-Spray Park, approving emergency repairs to the wastewater treatment plant, and accepting bids for various supplies and services.

• Public hearing and resolution to amend special use permit for used car sales at 2172 Niagara Falls Boulevard
• Award $2,119,000 bid to Titan Development Inc. for Job 3057 - YPR Enhancement Project-Brighton Complex-Spray Park
• Approve emergency repair of Circular Thickener #1 at Wastewater Treatment Plant (Job 3138) at total cost of $113,240
• Approve $56,822.40 payment to HP Inc. for 80 PCs under NYS Contract
• Approve change order No. 2 for Police Department Renovations (Job 3046) with increase of $29,850

The Town Board awarded a $2,119,000 contract to Titan Development Inc. for the Brighton Complex spray park. Other key actions included approving emergency wastewater treatment plant repairs and granting a special use permit for a used car business.

• Approved $2,119,000 contract to Titan Development Inc. for Brighton Complex spray park
• Approved $113,240 emergency repair of Circular Thickener #1 at Wastewater Treatment Plant
• Granted Special Use Permit amendment for used automobile sales at 2172 Niagara Falls Boulevard
• Approved $56,822.40 payment to HP Inc. for 80 PCs
• Approved $20,545 expenditure increase for Loadmaster Excel garbage truck body build
• Approved lawn maintenance contract with DMJ Property Services Inc. at $14.25 per cut/lot
• Approved $29,850 change order for Police Department Renovations (Nussbaumer & Clarke, Inc.)
• Approved Truancy Intervention Program Agreement with Charter School for Applied Technologies

Planning Board - Regular

The Tonawanda Planning Board will hold public hearings and take action on several site plans, including the Old Dominion freight facility on Riverview Parkway and a mixed-use project at 2560 Sheridan Drive. The board will also discuss auto sales at 2172 Niagara Falls Blvd. and an auto repair/sales proposal at 311 Kenmore Ave. Other items include a rezoning discussion and updates on the Brighton Park redevelopment and townwide rezoning project.

• Old Dominion Freight Facility, Riverview Parkway – SEQR determination and site plan (action)
• 2560 Sheridan Drive – mixed-use project combining residential with Ideal You commercial (SEQR and site plan, action)
• 957 Brighton Road – retail vape shop (SEQR and site plan, action)
• 2172 Niagara Falls Blvd. – auto sales (SEQR and site plan, discussion)
• 311 Kenmore Ave. – auto repair and sales (preliminary site plan, discussion)

The Planning Board approved site plans for a 52,000 square foot freight facility and a mixed-use residential/commercial project. A training facility change of use was also approved, while a retail vape shop application remains pending further documentation.

• Approved 52,000 sq ft Old Dominion Freight Facility site plan at 5221 River Road (5-0)
• Approved mixed-use project site plan at 2560 Sheridan Drive (5-0)
• Approved change of use to training facility at 99 Pearce Ave (5-0)
• Tabled 2172 Niagara Falls Blvd auto sales site plan (5-0)
• Requested revised site plan and lighting plan for vape shop at 957 Brighton Road
• Approved March 1, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)

Town Board - Regular

The Tonawanda Town Board is holding a public hearing and voting on a license agreement with DBCB Kitchen LLC to run concessions at Sheridan and Brighton Park golf courses. The board will also vote on a $60,000 police department agreement with Endeavor Health Services, funding for the Riverwalk Parkway Trail, and several other infrastructure and equipment purchases.

• Public hearing and vote on license agreement with DBCB Kitchen LLC (Tonawanda Caddy Shack) for golf course concessions at Sheridan and Brighton Park; $1,500 per course per year, through Dec. 2025
• Approve $110,000 insurance claim payment plus $1,174.55 in expenses
• Appoint Kristen Biggie (also known as Kristen Walder) to Zoning Board of Appeals as alternate member
• Purchase 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV for $27,014.66 for Wastewater Treatment Plant
• Authorize $60,000 agreement with Endeavor Health Services for police department services in 2023

The Town Board approved a license agreement for concession services at Sheridan and Brighton Park Golf Courses. They also authorized a $60,000 contract for behavioral health clinicians to work with the police department and approved several infrastructure projects and bids.

• Approved concession license agreement with DBCB KITCHEN LLC for golf courses (5-0)
• Approved $60,000 agreement with Endeavor Health Services for police behavioral health clinicians (5-0)
• Approved $27,014.66 purchase of a Chevrolet Bolt EV for Wastewater Treatment Plant (5-0)
• Appropriated $100,000 for Riverwalk Parkway Trail project (5-0)
• Approved $110,000 and $1,174.55 insurance claim payments (5-0)
• Appointed Kristen Biggie as Alternate Member to Zoning Board of Appeals (5-0)
• Established Sanitary Sewer Repair Capital Reserve Fund (5-0)
• Approved decrease of $114,047.27 for Bannard Avenue watermain replacement (5-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals - Regular

The Tonawanda Zoning Board of Appeals will hold hearings on two area variance appeals, including one by Ward Scardino to install a 4-foot-wide stamped concrete walkway at 16 Patricia Dr, which would make the combined driveway and walkway width exceed the allowed 18 feet. The board will also vote on approving the minutes from the February 15, 2023 meeting and may render decisions on the appeals at this meeting or at the next one on April 19, 2023.

• Area variance request by Ward Scardino for a 4-foot-wide stamped concrete walkway at 16 Patricia Dr, exceeding the 16-foot-8-inch driveway width limit by 1 foot 8 inches
• Public hearing on the walkway variance, with findings on neighborhood character, alternatives, and impact
• Approval of minutes from the February 15, 2023 Zoning Board of Appeals meeting
• Possible decisions on appeals rendered at the meeting or deferred to April 19, 2023

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved two area variances for residential improvements. One variance allows a walkway to exceed width limits, and the other allows a utility building to exceed maximum size limits.

• Approved February 15, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Granted area variance for 4-foot wide walkway at 16 Patricia Dr (Unanimous)
• Granted area variance for utility building exceeding size limit by 36 sq ft at 120 Lyndale Ave (Unanimous)

Town Board - Regular

The Tonawanda Town Board is holding public hearings and considering resolutions to approve minor subdivisions at 5221 River Road and 3939 Delaware Avenue, and to authorize bonds totaling $3.4 million for roof replacements in the water and garbage districts. The board will also vote on several contracts, including a $300,000 sewer plant repair, a $10,000 GIS support contract, and a change order for Parker Boulevard streetlights.

• Public hearing and resolution for minor subdivision into two lots at 5221 River Road
• Public hearing and resolutions for minor subdivision into three lots at 3939 Delaware Avenue, including SEQR negative declaration
• Bond resolution for $3,300,000 for Job 3077D water district roof replacements
• Bond resolution for $100,000 for Job 3077D garbage district roof replacements
• Resolution to approve $300,000 expenditure from Repair Reserve for sewer treatment plant thickener repair

The Town Board authorized $3.3M in bonds for roof replacements in the Water Acquisition and Storage District and $100,000 for the Consolidated Garbage District. Several minor subdivisions were approved, and multiple construction bids for roof replacements were accepted. The board also approved various personnel changes and professional service contracts.

• Approved $3.3M bond for Water Acquisition and Storage District roof replacements (5-0)
• Approved $100,000 bond for Consolidated Garbage District roof replacements (5-0)
• Approved minor subdivision of 5221 & 5315 River Road (5-0)
• Approved minor subdivision and Open Development Area Plan for 3939 Delaware Avenue (5-0)
• Accepted $2.984M bid from Titan Roofing, Inc. for Water Treatment Plant roof (5-0)
• Accepted $1.398M bid from J.A. Sanders & Sons Roofing, Inc. for Sheridan Parkside Community Center roof (5-0)
• Accepted $594,340 bid from Shelby Crushed Stone, Inc. for stone and blacktop (5-0)
• Approved $96,000.55 ESG-CV grant agreement with YWCA of the Niagara Frontier (5-0)

SEQR - Regular

The committee recommended a negative declaration for a subdivision and open development plan at 3939 Delaware Avenue. Other projects were determined to be Type II activities or consistent with prior findings.

• Recommended Town Board issue negative declaration for 3939 Delaware Avenue subdivision (4-0)
• Determined 2560 Sheridan Drive conversion to single family use is a Type II activity
• Recommended amendments for 2172 Niagara Falls Boulevard are consistent with prior negative declaration (4-0)
• Determined police equipment bond financing is a Type II activity
• Recommended 5221 River Road project is consistent with prior findings statement (4-0)
• Approved February 8, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)

Commission for the Conservation of the Environment - Regular

The commission approved the minutes from the previous meeting. Members discussed planning for the Ken-Ton Garden Tour, Arbor Day, and Earth Day clean-up activities.

• Approved previous meeting minutes

Planning Board - Regular

The Tonawanda Planning Board will vote on site plans and SEQR determinations for a cannabis processing facility at 1100 Military Road and a construction storage/office building at 675 Sheridan Drive. They will also discuss preliminary plans for a freight facility, a mixed-use project, and auto-related businesses, plus rezoning and other items.

• 1100 Military Road – Northeast Botanicals Distribution, cannabis processing, SEQR and Site Plan (actions)
• 675 Sheridan Drive – Blount Construction, 5,292 sq ft building, SEQR and Site Plan (actions)
• 311 Coventry Road – revised site plan for change of use, SEQR and Site Plan (actions)
• Riverview Parkway – Old Dominion Freight Facility (discussion)
• 2560 Sheridan Drive – mixed-use project combining residential and Ideal You commercial (discussion)

The Planning Board approved site plans for a cannabis processing facility and a new storage and office building. The board also recommended approval for an amended special use permit for an auto sales business and removed a terminated project from the agenda.

• Approved site plan for Northeast Botanicals Distribution cannabis facility at 1100 Military Road (6-0)
• Issued negative SEQR declaration for Blount Construction at 675 Sheridan Drive (Unanimous)
• Approved site plan for Blount Construction 5,292 sf building at 675 Sheridan Drive (Adopted)
• Removed 311 Coventry Road project from agenda after applicant terminated project (6-0)
• Recommended approval to amend Special Use Permit for auto sales at 2172 Niagara Falls Blvd (6-0)
• Tabled site plan for 311 Kenmore Ave auto repair and sales (6-0)
• Tabled site plan for 176 Vulcan Street storage pods (6-0)
• Approved February 1, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0)

Town Board - Regular

The Town Board is reviewing several financial and operational resolutions. Key items include bond resolutions for a new Development Services Center and roof replacements, as well as various department requests.

• Bond resolution of $2,500,000 for the Development Services Center
• Bond resolution of $4,600,000 for townwide roof replacements
• Purchase of six Ford Explorer police vehicles for $241,836
• Agreement with Nussbaumer & Clarke, Inc. for Brompton Road waterline lining ($38,780)
• Moratorium on development along the coastal side of River Road

Zoning Board of Appeals - Regular

The Tonawanda Town Zoning Board of Appeals is holding a regular meeting to hear one area variance appeal. The applicant, Frank Kiebzak, seeks to build a 200 square foot accessory structure at 302 Joseph Drive, exceeding the 144 square foot limit. The board will also approve minutes from the January 18, 2023 meeting and adjourn to the next meeting on March 15, 2023.

• Area variance application by Frank Kiebzak for a 10' x 20' accessory structure at 302 Joseph Drive, exceeding the 144 sq ft limit
• Approval of minutes from the January 18, 2023 Zoning Board of Appeals meeting
• Public hearing on the variance application with decision to be rendered at the hearing or next meeting

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a request to exceed the maximum allowable size for an accessory structure. The board also approved the minutes from the January 18, 2023 meeting.

• Approved area variance for 200 sq ft accessory structure at 302 Joseph Drive (Unanimous)
• Approved minutes of January 18, 2023 meeting (Unanimous)

SEQR - Regular

The committee recommended that the Planning Board issue a negative declaration for a proposed project at 675 Sheridan Drive. Members also discussed a proposed change in use for 1980 Niagara Falls Boulevard.

• Approved January 25, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Recommended Planning Board issue a negative declaration for 675 Sheridan Drive site plan (5-0)

Town Board - Regular

The Tonawanda Town Board is meeting to vote on a series of resolutions, including approving a performance standards use permit for a cannabis processing facility at 1100 Military Road, awarding contracts for sewer flow monitoring and waterline improvements, and accepting a bid for roof replacement at the Senior Center. The board will also consider several personnel, insurance, and inter-municipal agreements, as well as a minor subdivision application referral.

• Approve cannabis processing facility permit for Northeast Botanicals at 1100 Military Road
• Award $1,199,700 contract to GHD for sanitary sewer flow monitoring
• Accept $1,399,027 low bid from Jos. A. Sanders & Sons for roof replacement at 291 Ensminger Road Senior Center
• Approve $137,000 agreement with WM. Schutt Associates for Fairfield Avenue waterline improvements
• Approve $69,625.42 in insurance claims and $110,170.37 in claim expenses

The Town Board granted a Performance Standards Use Permit for a cannabis processing facility and approved a $1.39M roof replacement for the Senior Center. Other actions included approving various insurance claims, personnel changes, and infrastructure contracts for water and sewer services.

• Approved cannabis processing facility permit for Northeast Botanicals Distribution LLC at 1100 Military Road
• Awarded $1,399,027 roof replacement contract for Senior Center to Jos. A. Sanders & Sons, Inc.
• Approved $69,625.42 in insurance claims and $10,170.37 in claim expenses
• Approved $1,199,700 contract with GHD for sanitary sewer flow monitoring
• Authorized $128,790 emergency repair for Circular Thickener #2 at Wastewater Treatment Plant
• Approved $137,000 agreement with WM. Schutt Associates, P.C. for Fairfield Avenue waterline improvements
• Appointed Thomas J. Reigstad to the Town of Tonawanda Library Board
• Authorized settlement documents for the New York Teva Opioids Settlement Agreement

Planning Board - Regular

The Town of Tonawanda Planning Board will hold site plan reviews and make decisions on several properties, including a cannabis processing facility at 1100 Military Road and a church conversion at 1750 Military Road. The board will also discuss preliminary plans for a freight facility, auto-related businesses, and a construction office. Several items are discussions only, with actions scheduled for the Military Road cannabis and church projects.

• 1100 Military Road – Northeast Botanicals Distribution, cannabis processing, SEQR determination and site plan (action)
• 1100 Military Road – Performance Standards Permit recommendation (action)
• 1750 Military Road – Conversion of existing building to Church, SEQR determination and site plan (action)
• 311 Coventry Road – Site plan for change of use (discussion)
• 675 Sheridan Drive – Blount Construction, 5,292 sq ft building for storage and office (discussion)

The Planning Board approved the site plan for Nickel City Church to convert an existing building into a church. The Board also recommended approval for an open development area and subdivision at Colvin Woods. Several other site plan reviews for commercial properties were tabled or removed from the agenda.

• Approved site plan for Nickel City Church conversion at 1750 Military Road (6-0)
• Waived Performance Standards Use Permit requirement for 1750 Military Road (6-0)
• Recommended approval for Colvin Woods open development area and subdivision (6-0)
• Approved January 4, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Tabled site plan for Northeast Botanicals Distribution at 1100 Military Road
• Tabled site plan for 311 Coventry Road (6-0)
• Tabled Old Dominion Freight Facility at Riverview Parkway (6-0)
• Removed 280 Two Mile Creek Road from agenda (6-0)

Town Board - Regular

The Tonawanda Town Board is meeting to vote on several resolutions, including approving payments, personnel changes, and department requests. Key items include emergency repairs to the Paddock Chevrolet Golf Dome, purchase of garbage totes, and awarding bids for copy paper and paper products. The board will also call for bids on a roof replacement and a spray park project.

• Emergency repairs at Paddock Chevrolet Golf Dome (Job 3043.1) at $231,804
• Purchase of 702 garbage totes from Rehrig Pacific Company for $44,424
• Award bid to Eaton Office Supply for copy paper at $24,691.75
• Award bid to Dobmeier Janitor Supply for paper products at $56,458.50
• Call for bids for roof replacement at Water Treatment Plant and Sheridan Parkside Community Center

The Town Board declared an emergency to authorize immediate repairs to the Paddock Chevrolet Golf Dome following storm damage. Other actions included approving several supply contracts, personnel changes, and calling for bids on roof replacements and a spray park project.

• Approved $231,804 for emergency repairs to Paddock Chevrolet Golf Dome (5-0)
• Approved $44,424 purchase of 702 garbage totes from Rehrig Pacific Company (5-0)
• Approved $56,458.50 bid from Dobmeier Janitor Supply for consumable paper products (5-0)
• Approved $24,691.75 bid from Eaton Office Supply for copy paper (5-0)
• Approved $3,554.50 in claim expenses paid by USI Insurance and Benefits (5-0)
• Approved new hires, re-hires, and status changes for various departments (5-0)
• Called for bids for roof replacement at Water Treatment Plant and Sheridan Parkside Community Center (5-0)
• Called for bids for YPR Enhancement Project – Brighton Complex Spray Park (5-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals - Regular

The Tonawanda Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on one area variance request by Bammel Architects for 231 Gib Realty LLC at 16 Wayside Court. The applicant seeks to build a 2,340-square-foot single-story addition to a commercial building, with a portion encroaching about 5 feet into the required 10-foot side yard setback. The board will also vote on approving the December 21, 2022 minutes and adjourn to the next meeting on February 15, 2023.

• Area variance for 10-foot side yard setback, 5-foot encroachment
• 2,340 sq ft single-story addition to commercial building at 16 Wayside Court
• Applicant: Bammel Architects, P.C.; Owner: 231 Gib Realty LLC
• Public hearing and decision on ZBA Appeal 2023-1
• Approval of December 21, 2022 meeting minutes

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a request to allow a commercial building addition to encroach into a required side yard setback. The board also approved the minutes from the December 21, 2022 meeting.

• Approved area variance for 2340 sq ft addition at 16 Wayside Court to encroach 5 feet into 10 foot side yard setback (Unanimous)
• Approved minutes of December 21, 2022 meeting

Town Board - Regular

The Tonawanda Town Board will hold a public hearing and vote on Local Law 2-2022, which would impose a 120-day moratorium on development along the coastal side of River Road. The board will also consider several resolutions, including the sale of town-owned land, a sewer flow monitoring expenditure, and various administrative appointments and contracts.

• Adopt Local Law 2-2022: 120-day moratorium on development along coastal side of River Road
• Expiration of permissive referendum for sale of 40 and 25 Pirson Parkway to NEWBRO CORP.
• Approve $1,400,000 expenditure for sanitary sewer flow monitoring (Job 2879.3)
• Approve change order No. 1 for concrete removal at 4111 River Road, increase of $51,903.18
• Designate 4111 River Road as slum and blighted property under NY GML Section 504

The Town Board adopted Local Law 2-2022 to establish a development moratorium on the coastal side of River Road. Other key actions included authorizing $1.4M for sanitary sewer flow monitoring and designating 4111 River Road as a slum and blighted property.

• Adopted Local Law 2-2022: Moratorium on development along the coastal side of River Road
• Approved $1.4M from Sewer Consolidated District Fund Balance for townwide sanitary sewer flow monitoring (subject to 30-day permissive referendum)
• Designated 4111 River Road as a slum and blighted property
• Approved $51,903.18 change order for concrete removal and disposal at 4111 River Road (E & R General Construction, Inc.)
• Approved $3,081,652 for general highway repairs and specific improvements on Liston Avenue, Grimsby Road West, and Wilton Avenue
• Appointed Randy Pekarski as Stormwater Management Officer
• Approved $3,585 monthly managed services agreement with PremCom Corporation for network support
• Called for bids for Municipal Landfill Closure Projects - Phase 2 Capping

Planning Board - Regular

The Tonawanda Planning Board is meeting to discuss several site plans, including a cannabis processing facility at 1100 Military Road, a freight facility on Riverview Parkway, and a church conversion at 1750 Military Road. The board will also review a rezoning for Brighton Park redevelopment and a townwide rezoning project update. Administrative items include electing officers and setting the 2023 calendar.

• 1100 Military Road – Northeast Botanicals Distribution, cannabis processing (SEQR and site plan discussion)
• 311 Coventry Road – site plan for change of use variances (SEQR and site plan discussion)
• Riverview Parkway – Old Dominion Freight Facility (preliminary site plan discussion)
• 280 Two Mile Creek Road – parking and drainage (preliminary site plan discussion)
• 311 Kenmore Ave. – auto repair and sales (preliminary site plan and special use permit discussion)

The Planning Board elected Robert Morris as Acting Chairman and Fred Kubus as Recording Secretary. Several site plan reviews for commercial and industrial projects were tabled pending further documentation or approvals. The Board also received an update on the Townwide Rezoning Project.

• Approved minutes of December 7, 2022 (6-0)
• Elected Robert Morris as Acting Chairman (6-0)
• Re-elected Fred Kubus as Recording Secretary (6-0)
• Tabled site plan for 1100 Military Road cannabis processing (6-0)
• Tabled site plan for 311 Coventry Road change of use (6-0)
• Tabled preliminary site plan for Riverview Parkway freight facility (6-0)
• Tabled conversion of 1750 Military Road to church (6-0)
• Tabled Brighton Park redevelopment

Commission for the Conservation of the Environment - Regular

The Commission reviewed the results of the Holiday Decorating Contest and agreed to start future promotions in late October. Members discussed monitoring Erie County Environmental Commission minutes and contacting John Bargnesi regarding beekeeping laws.

• Agreed to start Holiday Decorating Contest promotions in late October
• Agreed to contact John Bargnesi regarding beekeeping law progress

Town Board - Organizational

The Tonawanda Town Board is holding its organizational meeting to approve routine administrative items for 2023, including meeting schedules, rules of order, salaries, benefits, and appointments to boards and positions. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major policy decisions or public hearings listed.

• Approve 2023 salaries and pay rates for non-bargaining town employees
• Approve 2023 employee benefits and health insurance for non-bargaining staff
• Approve 2023 police department rules and regulations
• Approve Michael Kooshoian as Town Attorney for 2023-2024
• Approve mileage allowance at 65.5 cents per mile for 2023

The Town Board approved the 2023 meeting schedules, rules of order, and salary rates for non-bargaining employees. The board also appointed several town officials, including a new Town Attorney and Comptroller, and established various administrative policies and fee schedules for the year.

• Approved 2023 Town Board meeting and work session schedule
• Adopted 2023 Rules of Order for Town Board meetings
• Approved 2023 salaries for elected and non-bargaining employees
• Appointed Michael Kooshoian as Town Attorney through Dec 31, 2024
• Appointed Deborah Schwarz as Town Comptroller through Dec 31, 2024
• Approved 2023 employee benefits and health insurance for non-bargaining staff
• Set 2023 mileage allowance at 65.5 cents per mile for authorized employees
• Adopted 2023 fee schedules for Town Clerk, Building, Highway, and Water departments