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WEST SENECA COURT ROOM TOWN BOARD 1250 Union Road Minutes Meeting # 2026-16 West Seneca, NY 14224 August 24, 2026 - Is the Civic and Patriotic Commission bound by the town's procurement policy - Did the Highway Department perform work installing the planters - What bids were received for the planters - How many FOILs have been received by the town and challenged the transparency of the Town Board - Is still waiting for resolution regarding water pressure issues on Cedar Ridge Drive and challenged the approval of new developments nearby - Did Young Development fulfill all requirements for their newest project Gary Bensman, Cedar Ridge Drive: - Expressed ongoing concerns that existing infrastructure cannot support new developments and spoke of instances of electrical outages and water issues - Spoke of low water pressure and his efforts at tracking the pressure throughout the neighborhood - The property owners pay substantial taxes and should not have to buy additional equipment to correct the low water pressure - In his opinion, the town has allowed too much development to the detriment of the residents Supervisor Dickson asked what cul-de-sac Mr. Bensman was referring to and when it was built. Mr. Bensman stated Cedar Ridge Road, which was built approximately 20 years ago. Supervisor Dickson stated the current Town Board did not approve most of what Mr. Bensman has taken issue with. Mr. Raymond began speaking from the audience and was asked to wait to speak in an appropriate manner. Supervisor Dickson stated that he challenges anyone that says the Town Board has limited anyone to communicate with them, and that the Town Board responds to every communication they receive. Further, regarding statements about donors, there are many people that donate to everyone, but this is not a guarantee of project approval. In his opinion, the arguments are cherry picking and despicable. The number of FOILs has increased due to the number of FOILs submitted by the first speaker. Mr. Sherman was a member of the Planning Board before Mrs. Sherman ran, and the public had the choice to vote for or against her. The utility companies are independent of the town and provide their own approvals for projects. Mr. Trapp stated the Civic and Patriotic Commission is a non-profit and can choose to do business with whomever they choose. Regarding FOILs, the subject has been discussed at the state level and is a consistent problem throughout New York State. The Local State Government Law Section of the NYS Bar Association has formed a working group to examine the problems with the constant requests for FOIL. Many of the requests are AI generated solely for the purpose of either harassment or constantly asking questions or to create a situation whereby litigation can ensue. Councilmember Breidenstein referred to the comments about the Civic and Patriotic Commission and planters: - Planning for the USA's 250th anniversary and the town's 175th anniversary began in 2025 - Many entities throughout town were contacted to contribute - Funds were included in the 2026 budget to beautify the Town Hall campus during public budget meetings - The planters were purchased by the town per Town Board approval given at the April 13, 2026, meeting 3