Tonawanda, NY - Official Website

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2012 Final Budget

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Attorney

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1. Can the town attorney represent me in a divorce / custody matter, a traffic / criminal matter, a dispute with my neighbor and the like?: Pursuant to state law, the Office of the Town Attorney is ethically and legally prohibited from dispensing legal advice to private individuals. Residents seeking advice on private issues and conflicts must seek the advice of a private attorney.

2. What does the Town Code say about noise levels, fences, zoning issues, snow removal and similar topics?: The Town Code may be accessed viewing the following link. Town Code

3. Who do I contact regarding a traffic ticket?: All questions regarding traffic violations should be directed to the Town Court at (716) 876-5536.

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Community Development

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1. Can I receive assistance for needed housing repairs?: Yes. If you are income eligible, then you may receive a 0% interest, deferred payment loan for needed housing repairs to your principal residence. Please call our housing rehabilitation specialist at (716) 871-8847 ext. 3 for details.

2. Do you have any programs for first-time homebuyers?: Yes. If you are income eligible, then you can receive up to a $7,500 loan to pay for closing costs and down payment assistance for your first home. The loan is a 0% interest, deferred payment loan. Please call our first-time homebuyer program contact at (716) 871-8847 ext. 2 for details.

3. Is the town interested in purchasing a vacant property that is in an area where the town has built new homes?: We may be interested in purchasing your vacant property. Please call the director at (716) 871-8847 ext. 1 to see if the property meets the eligibility criteria.

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Comptroller

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1. Do I come to the Water Billing office to pay my water bill?: No. Water bills get paid through the town clerk's office at:
Municipal Building, Room 14
2919 Delaware Ave.
Kenmore, NY 14217

2. I am selling my house. How do I get the water bill out of my name?: You may contact our office at (716) 871-8843 and provide us with the new owner's name, billing address, date of transfer and current meter reading.

3. My water meter is leaking or making noise. What should I do?: Contact our office at (716) 871-8843 to coordinate a service call to review the issue.

4. My water bill is abnormally high, why?: You may have a leaky toilet or a broken pipe. You may contact our office at (716) 871-8843 to coordinate a service call to review the issue.

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Emergency Services

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1. Are pets allowed in the shelters?: Domestic pets (cats and dogs) can be accommodated at our shelters. Pet owners must bring a cage, leash and supplies for the animal.
Domestic pets (cats and dogs)

2. In the event of a disaster and I have to evacuate my home, where do I go?: Stay tuned to the news media for shelter locations and instructions as to where to relocate to. Normally, sheltering will be done in one of the KenTon schools, but location will depend upon the location of the emergency.

3. How can I prepare my family for a disaster?: Town of Tonawanda residents need to prepare now for emergencies and disasters. There are simple, low-cost steps families can take to be ready — Get a Kit , Make a Plan, Stay Informed. Get a Kit , Make a Plan, Stay Informed

4. What items should I keep in my emergency kit?: There should be enough supplies in your disaster kit to make each member of your family self-sufficient for at least three days. This should include water, food, a first-aid kit, flashlights, batteries, medicines, and a battery-powered radio or television. disaster kit

5. What does it mean to “Shelter-In-Place?”: If the authorities advise you to Shelter-In-Place, you are to remain in your home or office (wherever you are at the time of the emergency) and protect yourself there. If there is a threat of contaminated outside air, seal doors, windows and vents and turn off all fans and heating and air-conditioning units. Go to an interior room. Listen or watch local radio and television stations to stay updated on the latest information. Shelter-In-Place

6. How can I help my community during a disaster?: The Town of Tonawanda's Community Emergency Response Team, or CERT, program is based on the American tradition of “Neighbors Helping Neighbors Prepare for Emergencies.” CERT training prepares citizens and communities to take more active roles in the county’s emergency-preparedness efforts. CERT

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Forestry

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1. How do I get work done on my tree?: Call the Town of Tonawanda Highway Department at (716) 875-8822 and a work order will be filled out. A supervisor will come to your home and look at your tree.

2. How do I get a tree in front of my home?: Call the Town of Tonawanda Highway Department at (716) 875-8822 and a work order will be filled out. A supervisor will come to your home and decide what type of tree will be planted.

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General Info

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1. I saw a rat. What should I do?: Rodent Control is challenge we all face. You can find prevention tips and resources on our Rodent Control information page. Rodent Control Info

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Highway Department

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1. When can garbage be put out for pick-up?: Garbage can be placed out no earlier than 7:00 am the day before the designated collection day.

2. When do garbage cans have to be removed from the curb?: Garbage cans must be removed from the curb no later than 7:00 pm on the designated collection date.

3. How do I dispose of an old refrigerator?: Remove the doors and/or locking mechanism and place it out on collection day. For more information, see Waste Disposal Information from the Tonawanda Highway Department. Waste Disposal Information

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Marriage Licenses

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1. Where can I get a marriage license?: A couple who intends to be married in New York State must apply in person for a marriage license to any town or city clerk in the state. The application for a license must be signed by the bride and groom in the presence of the town or city clerk.

A representative cannot apply for the license on behalf of the bride or groom. This applies even if the representative has been given the Power of Attorney. Additionally, notarized marriage license affidavits cannot be substituted for their personal appearance.

2. Is there a waiting period associated with marriage licenses?: Yes, the marriage ceremony may not take place within 24 hours from the exact time that the license was issued. When both applicants are 16 years of age or older, the 24-hour waiting period may be waived by an order of a justice of the Supreme Court or a judge of the County Court of the county in which either the bride or groom resides. If either person is under 16 years of age, the order must be from the family court judge of the county in which the person under 16 years of age resides.

3. How long is the license valid?: A marriage license is valid for 60 days, beginning the day after it is issued.

4. Is a premarital physical exam required?: No premarital examination or blood test is required to obtain a marriage license in New York State.

5. Where can a marriage take place?: A New York State marriage license may be used within New York State only. Please note that if you go out of New York State to be married, your New York State marriage license will not be filed in New York State.

6. Who can perform a marriage ceremony?: To be valid, a marriage ceremony must be performed by any of the individuals specified in Section 11 of the New York State Domestic Law.

The officiant must be registered with the City of New York in order to perform a ceremony within the NYC limits. The officiant does not have to be a resident of New York State. Ship captains are not authorized to perform marriage ceremonies in New York State. Specific Individuals

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Personnel

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1. Are there any job openings in town?: From time to time, positions for employment become open. For part-time work, job inquiries may be made directly to the department that you are interested in. For full-time civil service positions, you must apply at Erie County Civil Service to take an examination for the position. For full-time non-civil service titles, recommendations are made from the department head. View current open positions.

2. Where can I apply for a civil service test?: Civil Service tests are administrated by Erie County or NY State Department of Civil Service.

3. Can I submit a job application to the Personnel Department?: Yes, applications must be submitted in person at the Personnel Department at:
291 Ensminger Road, Suite 2
Tonawanda, NY 14150

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Police

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1. I can't make my scheduled court date, now what?: Court dates are set by the Town Court. If you were scheduled in court and can't make it, contact the court at (716) 876-5536.

2. What is Cafeteria Court?: Cafeteria Court is the window in the court office where you can plead guilty to a ticket without appearing in court.

3. Are all equipment violations dismissed?: No. Sound, brakes and no headlight violations are not dismissible.

4. Where is the Town Court located?: Town Court is located on the second floor of the Police Building at 1835 Sheridan Drive. Entrance to the Town Court is located on the extreme west end (door closest to Delaware Road) of the Police Building. Do not enter the doors in the center of the building for court as you will only be told to exit the building and go to the next set of doors.

5. What is the town prosecutor?: The town prosecutor is a member of the Office of the Town Attorney who prosecutes traffic violations and non-criminal offenses.

6. What is the ordinance for barking dogs?: The ordinance for barking dogs is Section 71-5, Paragraph D, subsection 2 of the Town of Tonawanda town ordinances as listed below.

D. It shall be unlawful for any owner of any dog in the town to permit or allow a dog to: (2) Engage in habitual loud howling, barking, crying or whining or conduct itself in such a manner so as to unreasonably disturb the comfort or repose of any person.

7. I have a dog, what do I need to know and do?

It is unlawful for a dog to be unleashed off of the owner's premises in the Town of Tonawanda and Village of Kenmore. This includes all parks and recreation areas. The fine for this offense ranges from $25 to $250.
All dogs six months or older are required to be licensed. The fine for an unlicensed dog is $25. Persons harboring an unlicensed dog will be subject to arrest and fine upon conviction.
It shall be the duty of every dog owner or person having possession, custody or control of a dog to remove any feces left by said dog on any public property owned by the Town of Tonawanda and deposit it in a container lawfully used for the disposal of refuse.
Dog licenses can be obtained at the Town of Tonawanda Office of the Town Clerk, which is located at 2919 Delaware Avenue. For further information, please call (716) 877-8800 ext. 800.

8. How do I become a police officer in the town?: Candidates must be a U.S. citizen and must reside in the Town of Tonawanda for at least four months prior to taking the Civil Service exam.

Selections are made from a Civil Service list based upon exam scores. For each selection the person must be in the top three places on the list. Exams are given every two years by the Erie County Personnel office.

For additional information connect to the Erie County Civil Service Commission. Erie County Civil Service Commission

9. How do I get fingerprints taken ?: Fingerprints are taken by the department Monday through Friday between 8:00 am to 9:00 am and 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm. We do not take fingerprints for a pistol permits, you must contact the Erie County Pistol Permit Bureau for additional information (716-858-6600). For other fingerprinting requests you must make an appointment with the Detective Bureau by calling (716-879-6633) Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.
The fee for fingerprint cards is $10 per card for Town of Tonawanda residents and $50 per card for non-residents. You must bring exact change, no personal checks are accepted. You must also have proper identification.

10. When can garbage be put out for pick-up?: Garbage can be placed out no earlier than 7:00 am the day before the designated collection day.

11. When do garbage cans have to be removed from the curb?: Garbage cans must be removed from the curb no later than 7:00 pm on the designated collection date.

12. How do I dispose of an old refrigerator?: Remove the doors and/or locking mechanism and place it out on collection day. For more information, see Waste Disposal Information from the Tonawanda Highway Department. Waste Disposal Information

13. How can I obtain a handicap parking permit?: Applications are available 24 hours a day at the front desk of the Police Station. Once the application is completed, it may be returned to the Police Department Records Bureau for processing.

If the application is personally returned during the hours of operation (Monday through Friday between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm), the permit will be issued immediately. There are no fees for handicap parking permits.

Permits are issued to Town of Tonawanda residents only.

14. What are the ages for a junior operators license in New York?: In New York, junior operators licenses are for 16- and 17-year-olds

15. Can a person with a junior operators license drive after 9:00 pm with a friend who has a full license?: Different counties have different rules. In Erie County, the supervising driver must be at least 18 years of age with a license of the same class. This person must also be in a position of "Loco Parentis," meaning a guardian or relative (technically not a friend).

16. What is the rule for school functions regarding junior operators licenses?: Those with junior operators licenses are allowed to drive to and from school for instruction, education or training.

17. Is a school club a valid reason to drive after 9:00 pm with a junior operators license?: No a school club is not a valid reason to drive after 9:00 pm with a junior operators license.

18. Who must be riding with a driver that possesses a learners permit?: A person at least 18 years of age with a license in the same class as the vehicle being operated must ride along with a driver possessing a learners permit.

19. How is a motorcycle operator that possesses a motorcycle learners permit supervised by a licensed operator?: The licensed operator can either supervise as a passenger on the motorcycle or in another vehicle.

20. Does the learning motorcycle driver have to remain in view of the supervisor?: Yes, the learning motorcycle driver must remain in view of the supervisor.

21. What do you mean by moped class?: A moped is placed in a class based on its maximum attainable speed.

22. Can I drive a moped without a helmet or insurance?: You can drive a moped without a helmet or insurance only if it is a class "C."

23. How do I obtain an Order of Protection?: To obtain an Order of Protection in the Town of Tonawanda Justice Court, you must sign a complaint charging another party with a crime. When you sign the complaint in the Detective Bureau you should make your request known to the detective so the family protection registry form (TTP168) can be filled out ahead of time, and accompany your complaint to court.

Once your complaint reaches court the judge will preview the complaint you signed, a criminal summons will be served on the defendant and the judge will then issue a temporary order of protection, until further action in court.

For an Order of Protection through Erie County Family Court, please call (716) 858-8234 Monday through Friday, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

24. Can I park a trailer, house trailer or boat in the street?: The answer is yes, but it is very limited based on the over all length of the combined trailer and vehicle together. The combination of both vehicles together must not exceed 21' 10". This is the exact Town Code pertaining to this topic: Due to safety reasons involving obstructed vision pertaining to pedestrians, children, emergency vehicles and other motorists, no vehicle or transport device longer than 21 feet 10 inches, inclusive of load and bumper (even if not attached), nor wider than seven feet 10 inches, as measured by the body, nor higher than seven feet two inches, as measured from the underside of the tire to the top of the vehicle, shall park upon any street within any residential district in the Town of Tonawanda. This provision is applicable, but not limited to, boats and/or jet skis with trailers, recreational campers, vehicle transport carriers or trailers.

25. Can I put a dumpster in the street?: No, dumpsters can not be placed in the street in the Town of Tonawanda.

26. Can I park my car on the lawn?: No, cars can not be parked on your lawn in the Town of Tonawanda.

27. Can I park in front of my own driveway?: No, you can not park in front of your own driveway.

28. How do I obtain a peddlers permit?: Peddlers permits are only valid for the named individuals, not multiple parties or companies. Applications are available at the front desk of the Police Department. Once completed and submitted with the proper fee and two proofs of ID (one being with a picture), they are processed and either approved or disapproved.

Permits must be picked up in person and are issued at that time. Each permit is good for a period of 30 days from date of issuance.

29. Can I get criminal records on the internet?: No. Criminal records are not available through the internet, nor are they a matter of public record. Very stringent rules are in effect even for police officers and investigators pursuing this type of information in regard to ongoing investigations.

30. How do I get an arrest record check or a summary of a police report?: Request forms are available at the front desk of the Police Department. Forms need to be completed and submitted with the proper fee and two proofs of ID, one being a picture ID. The record check or summary will be processed within five business days and mailed to the requesting party, unless otherwise requested.

You may download the form now and have it ready for the desk officer when you arrive at the police station.

31. What are the fees for a specific report?

Summary of police report - $5

Arrest records check - $7

Peddlers and hawkers permit - $10

Accident reports MV-104a - $0.25 cents per page

Accident investigations - $4

Accident sketches - $15

Accident photos - $20

Blood alcohol content statements for driving while intoxicated school - $3

Fire incident report - $0.25

Paramedic medical report - $0.75

32. If my child is under four years old but over 40 pounds does he/she still have to be in a safety seat?: Yes. The law only refers to age.

33. I got a ticket, now what do I do?: If you wish to plead guilty to a traffic violation by mail, date and sign Part A of your summons and remit it to the Court before the court date which is printed on the front of your summons. Upon receipt, the Court will notify you in writing of the fine due.

For most minor traffic infractions, you may pay a set fine by appearing in person at the cafeteria court window during regularly scheduled hours. Be sure you have your conviction stub with you. It may be helpful to call the Court to verify that there is a set fine for your particular infraction. Please note that the Town of Tonawanda Court will only accept cash, money orders or certified checks.

If you wish to plead not guilty by mail, you must date and sign Part B of the summons. Upon receipt of your not guilty plea, the Court will notify you in writing of your court date for arraignment.

If you do not want to enter a plea by mail, you should appear in Court on the date listed on the bottom of your summons. Upon arrival in the Court there are lists posted in the hallway. Locate your name on the list and follow the directions on the top of the sheet. If you have any questions go to the cafeteria court window, where a clerk will assist you.

34. How do I get my defect inspected and verified for court?: The inspection and completion of a defect correction form must be done by a police officer or an authorized inspection station. A statement of correction may be completed by an automobile repair shop and the statement must be on the letterhead of the shop.

35. Is an inspection violation a moving violation?: No, an inspection violation is not a moving violation.

36. How many points will I get for a speeding ticket?

The amount of mph below is the amount over the posted speed limit:

1-10 mph: three points

11-20 mph: four points

21-30 mph: six points

31-40 mph: eight points

Over 40 mph: 11 points

37. How much will the fine be?: The fine will be between $30 and $400 plus a surcharge of $25.

38. Are studded snow tires legal in New York State?: Studded snow tires are only legal between October 16 and April 30.

39. Where can I get studded snow tires?: Studded snow tires can be purchased at a tire dealership.

40. Can I tow a car with a rope?: A car can be towed with a rope only if the towed vehicle is occupied by a licensed driver to control steering.

41. If I buy a car, how do I get it home without plates?: You must tow the car home until you get plates.

42. How do I get my trailer to a weigh station (for the registration application) if it isn't registered?: The law allows you to tow a trailer to and from a weigh station only for the purpose of determining weight for registration.

43. When does the winter parking ban go into effect?: The standing or parking of vehicles is hereby prohibited on all streets and highways within the Town of Tonawanda between the hours of 2:00 am and 6:00 am, beginning November 1 of each year and ending April 1 of the next succeeding year.

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Supervisor

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1. Who can I call to get help on a particular issue?: Depending on the subject matter, you should contact the specific department that handles that service. Please refer to our online staff directory. Staff Directory

2. How do I file a compliant about a neighbor?: Complaints regarding a building or site condition may be directed to our Building Department. Issues concerning public safety may be made to our Police Department.

3. Who is my town representative?: The Town Board consists of the town supervisor and four town councilmen. Each board member has representation responsibilities by department or service rather than geographic boundaries. Committee Assignments

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Technical Support

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1. The sidewalk in front of my house has tipped (or broken) and I'm afraid someone may trip over it. What should I do?: Sidewalks are replaced by the town only under certain circumstance. If a tree root from a tree that is between the curb and sidewalk has lifted the sidewalk slab, the Highway Department should be contacted at (716) 875-8822. The Highway Department has a Sidewalk Replacement program for tree root damage. You may ask them to investigate your claim and determine if it is eligible for the program.

If a town water line or sewer needed to be repaired and the crews removed the sidewalk for the repair, then the Town Water and Sewer Department will replace the sidewalk. You may contact them at (716) 874-0490).

If the sidewalk is tipped or broken due to age, then you as the property owner are responsible as described in the Town Code Section 183.

2. My sump pump in my basement runs all the time when it rains. What should I do?: When this happens, it is usually because the water being discharged has no place to drain or the ground around your house may need to be graded so water runs away from the walls toward the street. You may contact the Town Building Department at (716) 877-8801 for additional assistance.

3. I'm buying a new home and my insurance company needs to know if it is in a flood zone. How can I find out?: Our department has flood maps from the Federal Emergency Management Agency National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). We will compare your street address to the NFIP maps and can issue you a statement declaring whether or not you are in a flood zone. Contact the department at (716) 877-8805 for more information. Town Flood Info

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Water Resources - Hydrant Flushing

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1. Why is hydrant flushing necessary?: Hydrant flushing enhances water quality by flushing sediment from the mainline pipes, verifies the proper operation of hydrants and valves, and maintains firefighting capability.

2. What should I do when the town is flushing hydrants in my area?: If you see a crew flushing a hydrant on your street, avoid running tap water and using the washing machine or the dishwasher until the flushing is done. If you see hydrant flushing crews working in the area, please drive carefully and treat them like any other road construction crew.

3. What should I do after hydrant flushing?

If tap water is used during flushing, it could come out full of sediment that causes discoloration. If you encounter discolored water, shut the water off and wait several minutes. After waiting, check the clarity by running cold water for a few minutes, allowing new water to work its way into your pipes. If the water is clear, it’s okay to use. If not, wait a few more minutes and check again. In some cases, there may be slight discoloration for a few hours. This discoloration only affects the appearance of the water, it does not affect the taste or water quality.

Avoid washing laundry during scheduled flushing times. Wait until the water runs clear at the tap, then wash a load of dark clothes first.

If pressure or volume seems low, check your faucet screens for trapped particles.

4. Why does my water look funny after hydrant flushing?: When a hydrant is opened, there will be temporary incidences of discolored water while fine sediment particles are flushed out. There is no health hazard associated with the discolored water. Allow a few hours for discoloration to dissipate. To verify water is clear, run your cold-water tap for a few minutes.