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Town of Hamburg Planning Board Minutes March 18, 2026 Member Zajac also had a concern regarding the setback from the driveway that connects to the house and back located at the top of the screen. He stated that it appears that the setback was measured from the property line and not the edge of the driveway, and asked if there was an easement there. Mr. Van Slyke responded that per the Town zoning code, the setbacks are measured from the property line to the fence so that is a 50-foot setback from the fence to the property line. Member Zajac explained that since there is a road there, the setback should be from the edge of the driveway not the edge of the property line. Mr. Van Slyke stated that he understands that sentiment, however, the project was designed to the letter of the law. When it comes to the pond on the property, Member Zajac feels that there needs to be a lot more buffering and more setbacks because when you walk around this pond all you will see are solar panels. He stated that he felt that the landscaping that was presented does not do enough to shield. Mr. Van Slyke said his team is open to additional discussions with the Planning Board regarding additional screening. Member Stewart concurred with what Member Zajac stated regarding the setback and stated that he would like to make sure that there is adequate coverage as he is sure the people there do not want to hear the buzzing sound or see the solar panels. Member Ryan was curious as to why the applicant chose a site that is so close to a residential area. Mr. Van Slyke responded that when picking a site, there is a trifecta that is looked at: ▪ Where is their capacity on the power grid? They try and look for sites where there is a circuit or a feeder line essential to where capacity exists. ▪ They then look for a willing landowner. In this case it was a mailing campaign where they mailed to various landowners in the area to see if they were interested. This landowner responded and said they were interested in leasing the land to the applicant. ▪ Is the site viable? That is what is in the Board packet and what was presented earlier. This is where they look at whether or not there are wetlands, endangered species or habitats to contend with, any grading that needs to be done. 8