Newfane Zoning Board tables variance for 5576 West Bluff after applicant fails to appear

The Town of Newfane Zoning Board of Appeals on Aug. 18 read and then tabled an area variance request for 5576 West Bluff, Olcott, because the applicant did not attend the meeting. Chairman Troy Barnes read the variance application aloud, noting in part: "Gordon M. Czelusta, has applied for an Area Variance under the Newfane zoning provisions, upon premises known as 5576 West Bluff, Olcott, New York, and identified as SBL No. 14.06-1-28, to establish the above premises as a buildable lot..." The board recorded that the parcel is in an R‑1 district and that the lot width is 87.29 feet, which is below the 100‑foot minimum required in R‑1 zoning.

Neighbors raised concerns during the discussion. A resident identified as Mrs. Smith expressed worry about water drainage if a home were built on the lot; another resident, Mr. Pease, asked what the owner planned to do with the property. After hearing questions and noting the applicant's absence, board member Jeremy Irwin moved to table the variance and Marcy Ferington seconded. "All were in favor and no one was opposed," the minutes record, and the motion passed with Board member Charles Maynard absent.

The variance application remains tabled pending further action. Later in the same meeting the board adopted a procedural rule requiring applicants or their representatives to attend variance hearings; that new rule may affect how and when this application is reheard.