Southtowns Record

Planning Board Regular Meeting, May 20, 2026 — Minutes

Government
Town of Hamburg
Board
Planning Board
Meeting
May 20, 2026
Kind
Minutes
Topics
Zoning and land use, Water, sewer and drainage, Energy and data center siting, Housing, Roads and traffic, Budget and taxes, Public safety

Original document

Same meeting

Text · page 6 of 22

Town of Hamburg Planning Board Minutes  May 20, 2026

Doug Hutter of Zaxis Architectural appeared on behalf of the project and gave an
overview of the project.

The Town Conservation Advisory Board provided the Planning Board a memo with the
following comments:

  •  Save as many trees as possible and consider planning more trees than 32.
  •  Relocate as many trees as possible, especially the two red Japanese Maples.
  •  Plant mature trees, suggest 3” caliper.
  •  Support tree diversity. The importance of planting a variety of tree species is
  significant to note considering the ash borer impact and likelihood of threat to
  other species in the future. The architect reported that details of the replacement
  species were still to be determined.
  •  Ensure tree survival with appropriate post planting care with an action plan for
  replacement if needed.
  •  Architect, Doug Hutter mentioned that the long-term plan for the Fairgrounds is to
  connect park-like space throughout the Fairgrounds. Since there will be an
  increase in parking space and impermeable surface area, consider adding
  islands of trees in the new parking and transportation areas for shade, native
  species and a wide variety to best survive future climate change.
  •  As conservationists it is important that we draw attention to the impact of
  development and mature tree removal. Timing of mature tree removal is
  significant to birds and animals who use these trees as their nesting grounds.
  When nearly 30 mature trees are removed it impacts birds, insects, squirrels and
  other animals. Consider timing tree removal with the least impact to the wildlife.

Mr. Rogers explained that the CAB met with Mr. Hutter on Saturday, May 16th and were
provided with a tour of the site along with an overview of the project. The CAB did
provide a memo for the Planning Board to consider before making their site plan
approval decision.

Town Engineer Camie Jarrell added that there has been a conversation between the
Engineering Department and the architect since the last meeting to discuss utilities and
grading and drainage. At this point, everything is going in a good direction.

Member Ryan asked a question directed for the CAB. In the report, it is suggested that
the Japanese Maple Trees be saved, how successful is it to save a tree and replant it if
it has to be moved?

Leona Rockwood, Chair of the CAB, stated that they do not have the information
regarding the success rate. However, due to the fact that the Japanese Maples are

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