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WEST SENECA COURT ROOM DRAFT TOWN BOARD 1250 Union Road Minutes Meeting # 2026-16 West Seneca, NY 14224 August 24, 2026 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 - Request for bids were requested from multiple greenhouses in and around town in February and some declined to bid - Multiple bids were received according to the procurement process and published with the April 13, 2026, Town Board meeting - In his opinion, the speaker has offended many entities - Town departments including the Highway and Buildings and Grounds Departments have watered the planters throughout the summer Supervisor Dickson expressed disgust that a certain political party had decided to have a political vendetta against the Civic and Patriotic Commission. The volunteer commission has served the town for over 50 years and contributed in many ways to the residents of the town. In fact, the current Town Board has made efforts to improve the Civic and Patriotic Commission. Councilmember Robertson stated Councilmember Sherman has an excused absence and all Town Board members are respectful of their commitment to the residents of the town. Further, making sweeping generalizations is irresponsible. Councilmember Robertson asked Deputy Supervisor Greenan if she was aware of the possibility of public comments through YouTube and whether there has been a change in participation. Deputy Supervisor Greenan stated she was able to see how many views there were during the meeting and can inquire if public comments are possible. Further, it would be a Town Board decision to allow comments. Supervisor Dickson reiterated again that there are countless ways to communicate with the Town Board. 4 Page 7 of 211