Buffalo · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Buffalo public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Composting Program Expansion
Buffalo is expanding its curbside composting program to hit 10,000 households and keep food scraps out of the landfill. Check your neighborhood to see if you can start turning your kitchen waste into useful compost.
Animal Shelter Overcapacity
Buffalo's city-owned animal shelter is totally packed, forcing them to freeze cat intake while desperately looking for adopters and volunteers. If you've been thinking about getting a pet, now is the absolute best time to step up and help out.
Animal Shelter Capacity
Buffalo's animal shelter is totally overflowing with homeless pets right now, but the mayor is hinting that a brand-new facility might finally be on the way. If you've been thinking about adopting or care about how your tax dollars are spent on local infrastructure, now's the time to tune in.
Small Business Contracts
Erie County just made it way easier for local small businesses to score county contracts. If you're a local entrepreneur, this means less red tape and a better shot at landing government work.
Rezoning
The Town of Orchard Park is kicking an RV lot owner off their property right near the new Bills stadium to pave the way for brand-new development. Campers currently parked there have to clear out as town officials completely revamp the local zoning rules.
Construction Dispute
Buffalo Mayor Ryan ordered the Seneca Nation to stop building a new gas station and truck stop in the Old First Ward, but they're completely ignoring him. This standoff is turning into a major turf war between the city and the Nation right in our backyard.
Lead Poisoning Prevention
Bureaucratic roadblocks from the state are holding up Buffalo's efforts to fight lead poisoning, putting local kids at risk. If these safety updates get delayed, more families will face preventable health hazards in their homes.
Hazardous Waste Disposal
Got a garage full of old paint, weird chemicals, or dead tech? Buffalo is hosting a free drop-off day so you can finally get rid of your household hazardous waste safely and without a hassle.
Public Event Cancellation
Buffalo is skipping its usual Fourth of July fireworks show this year, so you'll have to plan your holiday celebrations elsewhere. Mayor Ryan has explained the decision, but it's a bummer for anyone looking forward to the local festivities.
Stadium Construction
The brand-new, $2.1 billion Highmark Stadium is finally finished and ready for game day! Funded by a mix of state, county, and team money, this massive project is a huge deal for local football fans.
Political Succession
Buffalo might be shaking up its local leadership soon. Council Member Leah Halton-Pope is lined up for an Assembly seat, meaning the Common Council will likely need to find a brand new representative.
Judicial Appointment
Mayor Sean M. Ryan just appointed Michael Pacifico as Buffalo's newest City Court Judge. This means a fresh face is stepping onto the local bench to handle city-level legal cases.