Text · page 12 of 14
Read the whole document on one page (all 14 pages, each with its own heading)
Town of Hamburg Planning Board Minutes May 6, 2026 Member Clark stated the Planning Board has a recommendation that after the trees are cleared, the Applicant plant some new trees to replace the live ones that were cut down. Member Clark asked Mr. Dragonette if he had an opinion on that. Mr. Dragonette disagreed with that opinion. He stated he is asking to cut down trees and does not see the reasoning in cutting them down just to replant. Member Chmura asked if there are no future plans for development, why is he proposing to clear cut. Mr. Dragonette feels that he is trying to clean up his property as a lot of garbage collects in that area. He is getting towards the end of his working life and is thinking about when it is time to sell his office, and believes that if part of it is cleared it may make it more valuable and desirable. Attorney Gogan stated that the reason the Planning Board is asking this question is because of §243-1 of the Town Code, that states purpose and intent. The Town of Hamburg recognizes the value of trees, and their preservation of these resources is necessary to protect the health, safety and general welfare of the town. Member Clark asked how much the applicant could clear without a permit. Mr. Rogers responded that according to Town law, he can clear up to a quarter-acre (0.25) without a permit. Member Stewart asked if he could cut a quarter-acre now and in two years ask for another quarter. Mr. Rogers explained that there is nothing in the Town code that prevents that from occurring. Member Zajac asked Mr. Dragonette if he is going to be putting in a lawn after the clearing is done. He also asked if he would want an open field with ornamental trees. Mr. Dragonette reiterated the stumps are going to come out, and the land is going to be graded smooth with grass planted. He stated he is looking for an open field. He feels that there is going to be more land with untouched trees on it than what he is cutting down, and he is not cutting all the way to the end of his property. Member Ryan asked would he be open to leaving a boarder of trees on either side for the neighbors. Mr. Dragonette answered that one neighbor is the Thruway Department, and they are clear cut all the way back, and the other is Gullo’s and Mulligan’s and they are clear cut 12