Tonawanda council discusses donated park improvements, public art and docks ordinance ahead of public hearing

During the informal portion of the March 24 meeting, council members reviewed several community-improvement proposals and an ordinance affecting docks and waterways.

A council member described a proposal from the Tonawanda Soccer Club to raise funds and build a permanent restroom at Ives Park at an estimated cost of roughly $100,000; the club would construct the restroom and then donate the facility to the city for public use. The sponsor said the resolution to grant permission to seek grants and proceed with permitting would be prepared so the club could pursue funding and work with the building inspector and the engineering office.

Council members also discussed a proposed donated statue from Wendy Cote, described in the meeting as a double-lung transplant survivor who wants to finance a large buffalo statue and a donor plaque near Main Park at the park adjacent to the cemetery. The council estimated the project could be about $5,000 and expressed general support pending confirmation of location, union work for installation and procurement details.

On waterways and docks, councilors debated draft ordinance language that would limit docks per property, address parallel versus perpendicular dock placement, and reference canal or state authority rules where applicable. Staff and councilors recommended introducing the ordinance as written, scheduling a public hearing (targeted April 21) and returning for final votes on May 5 to allow public input and possible amendments.

Council members emphasized that donor-funded park projects should include clear maintenance, liability and procurement plans, and suggested the city attorney review any permissions or donation agreements before final resolutions were drafted.