20180214 Village Council Public Meeting
A REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOD, NEW JERSEY ON FEBRUARY 14, 2018 AT 8:00 P.M.
- CALL TO ORDER – OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS ACT – ROLL CALL – FLAG SALUTE
Mayor Knudsen called the meeting to order at 8:04 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. At roll call the following were present: Councilman Hache, Deputy Mayor Sedon, Councilman Voigt, Councilwoman Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen. Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney.
Mayor Knudsen led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.
Mayor Knudsen stated that over the weekend she worked on the Jamboree need-based scholarship program, which raised over $150,000.00 for Ridgewood High School seniors and tonight the gentlemen are here from Dad’s Night which reminds her that the school community is so important and how much a part of our lives it is, and the senseless tragedy that occurred in Florida today with the school shooting reminds us all, especially any day, but today it’s Ash Wednesday, it’s Valentines Day, and it is just another heart-wrenching day in our Nation.
Mayor Knudsen held a Moment of Silence for all the men and women serving our Nation and all first responders, but especially for all of those who are facing a devastating loss and pain and suffering today.
- ACCEPTANCE OF FINANCIAL REPORTS
Mayor Knudsen moved that the Bills, Claims, and Vouchers, and Statement of Funds on Hand as of January 31, 2018, be accepted as submitted. Deputy Mayor Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Council minutes of January 17, 2018 having been reviewed by the Village Council and now available in the Village Clerk’s Office be approved as submitted. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- PROCLAMATIONS
- DAD’S NIGHT DAYS – HAWES SCHOOL AND SOMERVILLE SCHOOL
Mayor Knudsen read the following proclamation:
- READ ACROSS AMERICA DAY
Councilman Voigt read the following proclamation:
After the proclamations were read, Chris Kaufman, explained that Dad’s Night is about friends, family, and community, and being a part of the community and feeling like you are doing something to benefit and to make things better. Mr. Kaufman stated that money is raised for the school, a new playground was recently installed at Hawes, and a lot of the equipment in the classrooms is purchased with money that they have raised which has benefited the students. Ads are sold, and the businesses in town are heavily promoted, which is another way that they give back to the community as it’s not just about Hawes and Somerville but about Ridgewood in general.
Todd Patton, Chairman of Somerville Dad’s Night, stated that all of the money raised goes back into the school, but added that it is not just about the school because there is also a contest every year where all of the students in the Somerville and Hawes Schools have an opportunity to write an essay about a charity. The Principal of each school will pick a child whose essay demonstrates the reasons they want to give, and during the show, that child gets up on stage and Dad’s Night donates $500.00 on the winner’s behalf to those charities.
Mayor Knudsen thanked the Dad’s Night organizers for all of their work for the betterment of the students and the schools. The proclamations were presented to the Dad’s Night organizers by the entire Village Council.
- COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Mayor Knudsen asked if there were any comments or questions from the public.
Saurabh Dani, 390 Bedford Road, stated that the Council was going to be voting on Resolutions #18-41 and #18-42 to award a contract for a Customer Billing Portal for Ridgewood Water for $157,840.00, and he sent an email after last week’s meeting that he could not find the bid posted on the Village website even though it was mentioned during last week’s meeting that a bid was posted and there was only one packet picked up and only one respondent. Mr. Dani added that he has generally seen in the past that there are a lot of bid companies or other providers that collect the bid packet, even though they may not submit it. There is often only one bid submitted, so in this case, he went to the Village website to see when the bid was posted, and he did not find it.
Mr. Dani stated that he received a response from Deputy Mayor Sedon that the process would be looked into, but he has not received a response as to where and when the bid was posted. Today’s resolution has been changed to sole provider, and for sole provider the bidding does not have to take place. Mr. Dani also added that if the contract is going to a sole provider, the Village does not have to stay within New Jersey. Mr. Dani asked if Watersmart is a company in the San Francisco Bay area and they are the sole provider, why the Village is going through a middle man, Rio Supply, to obtain the software. Mr. Dani added that Rio Supply doesn’t own the software, because when you look at WaterSmart, it is a San Francisco Bay area company which has its own website and direct channel, so he wondered why the Village is going through Rio Supply to purchase the Watersmart software. Mr. Dani stated that he hopes the Council looks into this, because if the Village is getting the software through a third-party company who is going to provide the services and support, and if there is a dispute he wondered who the Village is going to call for updates or support.
Mr. Dani added that last week, the Council heard that there was going to be a single sign-on with the current billing provider and then they will be redirected to the new website. Mr. Dani has seen in his software experience that when there are two different softwares where the user logs in to one platform and then has to click on the other, the user gets confused. In addition, it is a lot of extra maintenance and labor costs to maintain two different softwares. Mr. Dani added that he hopes it is not just a single sign-on and there is a migration path from one to the other.
Mayor Knudsen responded that the software that is being provided is compatible with the Neptune Meters that are installed in everyone’s home, which was an important factor, and it was the only provider that had this compatibility. The bid was actually out for 19 days, even though only 10 days are required, and the sole provider was the only one that responded to it. Mayor Knudsen stated that it was broken out a little differently by showing the cost involved with the actual software, which is the analytics piece, and the cost of the reports were separate, because that is required in order to get the word out and have everybody sign on to this.
Mayor Knudsen asked Daniel Timmeny, Business Manager for Ridgewood Water, to come up and respond as to whether the Village needed to go through Rio Supply for the software as a distributor. Mr. Timmeny stated that the reason Rio Supply submitted the bid is because Neptune, which is the Village’s meter company, has established a national partnership with WaterSmart. In fact, WaterSmart is partnering with anybody who is currently using Neptune meters and leveraging the metering capabilities to automate their processes. It is a lot simpler for them to do this across the board, and leverage the software with this specific type of meter. Mr. Timmeny stated that as a result, Rio Supply worked with WaterSmart on submission of the bid.
Mr. Timmeny stated that in terms of single sign-on functionality, it will be a true integration because WaterSmart partners with two or three payment processing companies, and the payment processing company used by Ridgewood Water’s billing provider happens to be one of those companies. This will provide true integration, which will not be an awkward shift to another site, but actually a password protected, encrypted, third party security assessment, which has been penetration tested. Mr. Timmeny emphasized that all of the things a company security protocols for a single sign-on is present and will be maintained.
Rob Peacock, 252 Lakeview Drive, stated that he received a letter in late January regarding the Kings Pond beautification project, and that most of the neighborhood is ecstatic about it. There is just one concern that the neighbors seem to have regarding the plans that have been seen, which is the number of parking spots. Presently, there are 8 or 9 parking spots and the new plan is calling for about 25 parking spots. Mr. Peacock stated that he has a lot of longevity on the street, because he has lived there for 22 years and his wife was born and raised there. Despite the parking concerns, he added that they are all very thankful that the Village is looking into beautifying the park as all of the neighbors have concerns for the park and have been involved in cleaning it over the years. The biggest concern is the parking and the neighbors would like the number of parking spots to be reduced, because over the past 15 to 20 years, they have seen teenagers smoking and drinking in the current parking lot. The concern is that it might be opening up more spaces for the kids to appreciate more than the adults, who would really enjoy a natural park. Mr. Peacock encouraged the Village Council to get input from the residents and the Village Engineer and stated he would be glad to help in any way, because he has a law enforcement background and is here to help. Mr. Peacock reiterated that the neighbors would really like to thank the Village Council.
Mayor Knudsen thanked Mr. Peacock and stated that the reduction of parking spots was certainly something that could be looked into as the project moves forward.
Siobhan Winograd, 274 Ivy Place, stated that during the last two meetings she saw the “No Knock" policy come up, and she was happy it was not on the agenda for the public meeting tonight as she was not a fan of it moving forward. During that process she was thinking how an item like that is put onto the agenda, because there was very little support for it at the Council meeting, and most of the comment was saying it was an overreach and would be a burden on law enforcement.
Ms. Winograd stated that during that time she was thinking that there were several things she had submitted to be discussed by the Village Council. She doesn’t know how to move these items forward, without continuing to email the Council, so she figured she would come to public comment. She was interested to see some of the feedback to the Ridgewood Rules of Order she proposed, and if a discussion could be held at a Village Council meeting or if there was a different place to go. Ms. Winograd added that she was also interested in finding out why emails being sent by the Village no longer have a line at the bottom stating that all emails are subject to OPRA. She explained that the Board of Education is still placing that information at the bottom of their emails. She thought that these two proposals were quick and easy and she didn’t want to keep going back to trying to find out why they are not being discussed by the Village Council.
Ms. Winograd stated that she was really interested in how, rather than emailing into an abyss, something could be moved forward to a Village Council discussion. She also asked if the Village and any of the Boards that utilize Village resources, such as the Village Attorney, have a policy on social media. She stated that over the past couple of weeks, she as a member of the general public, is seeing a person who is on a Village Board, identify as being on that Village Board and then speaking to an issue on social media. She said it is becoming confusing to people in the public whether that person is speaking as an individual or speaking as a member of the Village Board. Ms. Winograd added that when she worked for a corporation they had an etiquette class and a social media disclaimer that talked about what employees could and could not do in the capacity of the company. She was wondering if Ridgewood had that type of policy and if not, whether it is something the Village should consider. She added that as a member of the public, there were several Facebook strings where an individual was identifying as being a member of a Village Board and then five minutes later saying something, and there was confusion if that person was saying it as a member of a Board or as an individual because they don’t have two profiles on social media.
Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that he wanted to echo some of the comments that Mr. Dani made regarding the water billing analysis software. Mr. Loving stated that there are a number of different companies involved in this piece of the pie, as Mr. Timmeny had mentioned, Neptune, Rio, and WaterSmart and each of them is going to get some of the water rate payers dollars as nobody is in this not to make money. Mr. Loving stated that now with just this one piece of software, there are three companies who have their hands in it, and there is a second piece of software which is the billing software. He added that to Mr. Dani’s point, WaterSmart owns this software. He wondered why Ridgewood Water can’t go to WaterSmart directly and get a better deal than going through a middle man. Mr. Loving added that it also concerns him that there are still going to be two pieces of software, the software that runs the billing and the analysis software and questioned whether there was one product that could do it all. He wondered if there must be two separate vendors which means the Village is paying the cost and having the complexity of dealing with two separate vendors. He added that if there was one company which could do it all, perhaps the Village should be reaching out to that company.
Mr. Loving stated that as the Mayor had pointed out, there have been some changes to the wording of the resolution as it was initially thought to be $157,000.00 per year for three years. He just read the new resolution and realized the cost has been clarified; however, the thing that concerns him about the new resolution is that the Village is going to be charged on a “per report” basis. He wondered who will keep track of the number of reports generated. The resolution says that there is a charge of up to $75,000.00 per year, depending on the number of reports that the water company runs, and he is assuming that’s the number of reports that are run by subscribers, so he asked who is going to keep an accurate count as to whether or not $75,000.00 worth of reports were run or if there were only $5,000.00 worth of reports that were run. Mr. Loving added that he has a lot of concerns about the whole process, and his major concern is that there seem to be a lot of hands involved in it and any time someone’s hand is involved, that means that someone is reaching for money. He really thinks that this needs to be further investigated, because it is a lot of money each year and he doesn’t really know if it is necessary.
Rurik Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, stated that he would like to talk about the Zabriskie-Schedler house because with the financial challenges that Ridgewood residents will be facing with the so-called Tax Reform Act, he suggests the Village put a clamp on spending any money on the house until someone can provide residents with a report detailing what makes this such an important historic edifice. He has yet to see a report by anyone and questioned whether anything had been put on the house to say why it should be restored. Mr. Halaby questioned what it would cost to preserve or restore the house, and what is meant by restoring or preserving. He asked about the bathrooms and kitchen and the condition and era to which they would be restored. Mr. Halaby stated that the Village needs a plan for what is going to happen to the house and what the house will be used for, as someone had suggested using the house to store historical documents. He questioned how much it would cost to fireproof the house to be able to store historical documents there.
Mr. Halaby questioned what the total cost of the Zabriskie-Schedler house restoration project would be and wondered if anyone had put a budget on the total costs. He knows there is black rot, asbestos, and lead paint in the house, and this will have to be restored to exacting standards and will cost hundreds of thousands of dollars, if not a million dollars or more. Mr. Halaby also asked for an estimate of future staffing, insurance, and maintenance costs, and asked if anyone had put a budget on these costs. Mr. Halaby reiterated that he wanted to know, as a taxpayer, what the restoration of the Zabriskie-Schedler house would cost.
Mr. Halaby stated that he felt the Mayor should recuse herself from any discussion on the Zabriskie-Schedler property due to a perceived, if not real, conflict of interest. He added that unless this project is stopped in its tracks and unless a study is done, which is owed to the residents of Ridgewood, in a couple of years, this will be an expensive white elephant which would be a shame.
Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, wanted to thank the Village Council for their very prompt approval of minutes because tonight, they are already approving the minutes from January 17th, 2018. This is such a complete change from a couple of years ago where it would literally be a year and a half before minutes were approved. She added that it was really difficult to find the adopted minutes on the website, so she is not sure if there is a lag time between when the minutes are approved by the Council, which was very prompt, to when they are available on-line to the public. Ms. Loving stated that she was not sure if it was a fault of the website, as even the Council has admitted the website is problematic, or whether there is some kind of a delay between their approval and their being posted, adding that for example, she can’t find minutes from October 2017 on the website.
Mayor Knudsen closed public comment and turned to a couple of the questions or issues that were raised.
Mayor Knudsen addressed Ms. Winograd saying that the Rules of Order for the Village Council, are outlined in Robert’s Rules of Order. The document that Ms. Winograd provided to Mayor Knudsen appeared to have a couple of errors on it. Mayor Knudsen also felt that from her perspective, it was not a thorough review of a very intricate process. She said she will sit down with the Village Manager and go through it, because there are some questions about the procedures. Mayor Knudsen said she will reach out to Ms. Winograd and go over it and explain it to her.
Mayor Knudsen added that protocol and decorum are outlined in the Village ordinances and the procedures in a meeting are straightforward, adding that she does not intend to oversimplify a sometimes difficult process. Mayor Knudsen stated that she will call Ms. Winograd and go over it.
Mayor Knudsen addressed Mr. Loving stating that there are three parties involved in the software. Neptune is the provider of the installed meter in everyone’s house, and the issue is that there is only one company that will connect to the Neptune meters. The WaterSmart portal gets a rate payer to the billing. Mayor Knudsen added that there are no hidden costs, it is a seamless merging of the two systems. She believes that the long-term benefits, based on analysis, will be significant.
Mayor Knudsen addressed Mr. Halaby stating that it was the State of New Jersey which issued the Certificate of Eligibility for the Zabriskie-Schedler house as one of the last remaining early Dutch colonial homes. The particular vernacular of that architecture is significant in the State of New Jersey and they also believe that it qualifies for not just the State’s Historic Registry, but quite possibly the National Historic Registry. Mayor Knudsen stated that there is a lot of history in the property and the Village believes that the house, from an historical perspective, is certainly important, and the Village has an obligation to preserve history. The question is at what cost. Mayor Knudsen stated that she believes that the Village has some rough estimates and will be funding that through matching grants and the Council is confident that they are doing the right thing. Mayor Knudsen added that in terms of her recusing herself from discussing the Schedler property or the Zabriskie-Schedler house, there was no conflict, she campaigned on it, and has no interest in any property in the vicinity.
Ms. Mailander stated that the reports from WaterSmart questioned by Mr. Loving are actually mailings to the customers to indicate how they sign up for the on-line portal and gives them information about the customer portal. They are actual reports being mailed to the homes which will then direct the customers how to sign up. In the first year, there are four reports mailed so that people will get an idea of how to do so. Some may sign up right away and others may think about it, so it will be sent out again. Ms. Mailander stated that in future years, the Village can choose between zero and four reports. Based on the number of people signing up for the customer portal in the first year, the number of reports may be reduced to zero, one, two or three during subsequent years. This is an advertising through Ridgewood Water to allow customers to sign up for the portal and the customer service app.
- MANAGERS REPORT
Village Manager Heather Mailander reminded everyone that last week the Burbio app was launched and is on the Village website. To sign up, just click on the button on the website. Burbio puts Ridgewood school, library, government, and community events in one place; users can select calendars to follow, create a personalized event feed, synch events to their phone calendar instantly, and get notified when events may change.
Ms. Mailander reminded everyone about the upcoming removal of the sycamore tree at Graydon Pool, in which the Village Arborist and an Independent Arborist both deemed that it needed to be removed because a major portion of the trunk is hollow and therefore poses a safety concern. If anyone would like to photograph, visit, or go see the tree, the last date that the Village asks residents to do so is February 19th, Presidents Day.
Ms. Mailander stated that the Hudson Street Parking Garage Update is that the Village Council will be interviewing the various development companies who submitted RFPs for the parking garage next Wednesday, February 21st, beginning at 7:00 P.M. in the courtroom. Each of the companies will be interviewed by the Village Council for approximately an hour each. The companies will summarize their proposals and present their concept or concepts.
Regarding parking permits, Ms. Mailander stated that the Premium Parking Permits which allow parking in the Train Station, Hudson Street, Prospect Street lots and all other lots are now sold out. Non-Premium Parking Permits are still available at $750.00, as are Park and Ride Permits, and Non-Resident Permits which allow non-residents to park in the Cottage Place lot. All residents who commute can obtain a free resident sticker for their vehicle, so if they still wish to park in the train station lot they can do so by paying by Parkmobile or by coin. Central Business District Employee parking permits are also available. Ms. Mailander added that the parking permits are available at the reception desk during normal business hours.
Ms. Mailander reminded residents about the extended business hours in Village Hall. The Police Department is open on Thursdays from 8:30 A.M. to 8:15 P.M., and the Building Department is open from 8:00 A.M. to 4:30 P.M, Monday through Friday.
Ms. Mailander reminded residents that if it is snowy or icy when leaving in the morning to remember to bring garbage cans to the end of their driveway, and thanked residents for helping to protect Village employees by doing so. Residents should continue to bring their garbage cans to the end of their driveway until they have a clear path to where their garbage cans are usually stored.
Village Hall will have a holiday closure on February 19th in observance of Presidents Day. There will also be no recycling or garbage collection on that day, and the recycling center will be closed as well.
Mayor Knudsen stated that regarding the February 21st presentations by the garage developers, she was thinking that there should be a 5 to 10 minute period between each where residents can ask questions. Ms. Mailander stated that she believes it will just be Village Council questions at that meeting, and once one developer is chosen, then that developer will come in with a more refined plan, and at that time, there would be questions from the public. Councilman Voigt stated that he was alright doing it as Ms. Mailander had described. However, Mayor Knudsen stated that some residents are asking if they would have the opportunity to ask questions between and it might be beneficial in understanding different perspectives, even if it is just 5 minutes for public questions or comments. Ms. Mailander stated that there are only five minutes between presentations, to which Mayor Knudsen stated that she knew that it was pressing the scheduling, but stated that they could think about it and figure it out. Ms. Mailander was in agreement.
- COUNCIL REPORTS
Library Foundation – Councilman Voigt stated that he had the opportunity to attend a Library Foundation cocktail reception at the Giordano’s last Friday. Councilman Hache and Deputy Mayor Sedon were also present at this event which honored the individuals who donate to the Library Foundation. The new town book, called ‘Behold the Dreamers’ was handed out, which is a story about immigrants and an investment banker from Lehman Brothers during the economic crisis of 2008-2009.
Shade Tree Commission – Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that the Shade Tree Commission met on February 13th, and there was discussion about the upcoming year’s programs and grants the commission is pursuing. On April 10th at 7:30 P.M. in the library, Wayne Cahilly will have a discussion about trees and tree-related issues. Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that Mr. Cahilly is the independent tree expert and arborist who was brought in to assess the sycamore tree at Graydon Pool and is one of the foremost experts in the area. Shade Tree Commission members will speak to the Village Council on February 28th to present their recommendations for the tree replacement once the Graydon sycamore tree is removed.
Mayor Knudsen questioned Ms. Mailander regarding where the wood from the sycamore tree would be stored as there had been discussion that an ad-hoc committee would be formed for individuals who want to be engaged in what should be done with the sycamore wood. Ms. Mailander stated that the wood would be stored in either the storage yard or in the recycling area. Mayor Knudsen stated that the ad-hoc committee isn’t of urgency because the wood will be safe and stored. Ms. Mailander agreed and stated there were various ways the wood could be used, and that the tree crew would save the larger pieces of the tree and store it, until a final determination for its use has been decided.
Citizens Safety Advisory Committee – Councilwoman Walsh stated that the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee meets tomorrow night, February 15th and she knows that a lot of people have asked about safety concerns as she saw some posts on social media. Councilwoman Walsh urged anyone having pedestrian or vehicle safety concerns to attend the meeting.
Bergen County League of Municipalities – Councilwoman Walsh stated that Councilman Hache attended the Bergen County League of Municipalities meeting on her behalf.
Councilman Hache stated that at the Bergen County League of Municipalities meeting, there was opportunity to hear from the County Executive, Jim Tedesco. He added that when he talks to anyone from the County he always asks about the Duck Pond. Although it is County property, it is the gateway to the town and in its current state, it makes a terrible impression. Councilman Hache stated he was glad to report that the County is working on improving it. He explained that there was a very big project done on the pond years ago, but unfortunately there was an issue with the engineering as the water wasn’t flowing in properly and most importantly the liner from the pond was unable to retain the water, so the County was trying to find a way to patch up some of the issues. They now realize that no patch is going to work, and the entire pond will have to be redone. There is an RFP out for the project now and in addition to the liner and the proper channeling of the water from the Saddle River, they are also going to do upgrades. Councilman Hache added that the work is intended to start in the Spring.
Mayor Knudsen added that the County Engineering Department had done the preliminary work, and the RFP is out. She thanked all of the people who participated in the Bergen County Park Survey and mentioned the Duck Pond and the state of disrepair. From the County Executive’s perspective, the very first Bergen County Master Plan for Bergen County Parks has been completed, which is very exciting and really lays out the future.
Jamboree Scholarship Fund – Mayor Knudsen stated that this past weekend, Jamboree raised over $148,000.00 for need-based scholarship programs. It was really a tremendous effort and engagement with current parents of Ridgewood High School seniors and a lot of alumni.
July 4th Committee – Mayor Knudsen stated the July 4th Committee met on the evening of February 12th, and this year’s theme is Rockin’ Ridgewood. The event is supporting all types of music, highlighted in Ridgewood, and the hope is that this will encourage some of the parade participants to add more music to their floats. Mayor Knudsen added that the cost to have different marching bands come in each year becomes cost prohibitive at some point and makes it increasingly difficult to have music throughout the parade route.
Community Access Network – Mayor Knudsen stated that the Community Access Network meets at 7:30 P.M. on February 15th.
Planning Board – Mayor Knudsen stated that the Planning Board meets on Tuesday, February 20th at 7:30 P.M.
Master Plan Advisory Sub-Committee – Mayor Knudsen stated that the Master Plan Advisory Sub-Committee would be meeting prior to the Planning Board meeting on Tuesday, February 20th, to interview those who responded to the RFQ for the vision process as part of the Master Plan. The timing is particularly good as the hope was to have it occur during the Spring when most people can participate and be engaged.
Mayor Knudsen stated that the four respondents would be interviewed, and a recommendation would be made to the Planning Board, who would then make a recommendation to the Village Council so that a determination could be made and moved forward. Mayor Knudsen added that was the most exciting piece, because at that point, community members can speak to what they believe the future of the Village should be in terms of its facilities, planned use, and what is envisioned for the future of the Village 30, 40, 50 years from now. She noted that the current Master Plan is more than three decades old, is outdated, and is not reflective of what the Village would expect from a Master Plan.
- ORDINANCES – RIDGEWOOD WATER
- PUBLIC HEARING - #3631 – Bond Ordinance – Granular Activated Carbon Treatment System – Carr Well Field ($3,570,000)
Mayor Knudsen moved the Clerk read Ordinance 3631 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3631 by title:
A BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO THE CARR GAC TREATMENT SYSTEM IN AND BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $3,570,000 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $3,570,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE THE COST THEREOF.
Mayor Knudsen announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Knudsen moved the Public Hearing be closed. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Hache moved that Ordinance 3631 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- RESOLUTIONS – RIDGEWOOD WATER
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 18-33 THROUGH 18-40, WITH THE EXCEPTION OF 18-38, 18-41 AND 18-42 WHICH WERE READ IN FULL, WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 18-38, 18-41, AND 18-42, WERE CONSIDERED SEPARATELY AND READ IN FULL:
Before casting her vote for awarding the contract to WaterSmart for software for a customer billing portal, reports and analytics, Mayor Knudsen stated that this was one of the most pivotal, important things that the Village Council could have done, and she commends the Water Department for being forward looking and working hard, not just in conservation, but for offering a portal that would give invaluable information to the customers. Mayor Knudsen stated that she feels this is truly a missed opportunity.
Councilman Voigt stated that to add to his no vote, he was having difficulty in understanding what the return for this software will be. He emphasized that a lot of money is being spent and he would like to understand what the Village is going to save in costs and water conservation. He also stated that information needs to be forthcoming in order for him to make an intelligent decision.
- ORDINANCES
- INTRODUCTION - #3633 – Amendment to Municipal Complex Parking
Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of Ordinance 3633. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3633 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-42, “RESERVED PARKING SPACES.”
Councilwoman Walsh moved that Ordinance 3633 be adopted on first reading and that March 14, 2018 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- INTRODUCTION - #3634 – Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Significant Sewer Discharger Fees
Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of Ordinance 3634. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3634 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 145 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, FEES, AT SECTION 145-6, “ENUMERATION OF FEES RELATING TO CODE CHAPTERS.”
Deputy Mayor Sedon moved that Ordinance 3634 be adopted on first reading and that March 14, 2018 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- INTRODUCTION - #3635 – Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Sewers and Sewage Disposal – Connection Fee for Residential and Non-Residential Development
Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of Ordinance 3635. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3635 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 145 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, FEES, AT SECTION 145-6, “ENUMERATION OF FESS RELATING TO CODE CHAPTERS.”
Councilman Voigt moved that Ordinance 3635 be adopted on first reading and that March 14, 2018 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- PUBLIC HEARING - #3632 – Bond Ordinance – Street Paving and Streetscape ($2,160,000)
Mayor Knudsen moved the second reading of Ordinance 3626 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3632 by title:
BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE 2018 ROAD PAVING PROGRAM IN AND BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $2,160,000 THEREFOR AND AUTHRORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $2,052,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE PART OF THE COST THEREOF.
Mayor Knudsen announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Deputy Mayor Sedon moved that Ordinance 3632 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING - #3625 – Amend Chapter 190 – Land Use and Development – Allow Certain Illuminated Interior Signs in the Central Business District
Mayor Knudsen moved the reading of Ordinance 3625 by title on fourth reading and that the public hearing thereon be continued. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3625 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 190 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD AT SECTION 122 (E) ENTITLED “SIGNS IN THE B-1, B-2, AND C” DISTRICTS TO CREATE A NEW SUBSECTION 190-122 E (7) ENTITLED “INTERIOR DISPLAYS,” AND AMEND SECTION 190-3 ENTITLED “DEFINITIONS” AS IT PERTAINS TO “SIGN” AND ADD A NEW DEFINITION OF “INTERIOR DISPLAY.”
Mayor Knudsen explained that the Village Council is waiting for a report from the Planning Board, prior to adopting this ordinance. Therefore, although the Public Hearing will be held this evening, it will be continued to next month’s meeting. Mayor Knudsen announced that the Public Hearing was continued. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3625 be continued to March 14, 2018. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- RESOLUTIONS
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 18-43 THROUGH 18-68, WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION, NUMBERED 18-69, WAS CONSIDERED SEPARATELY AND READ IN FULL:
- COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Rurik Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, addressed Mayor Knudsen and stated that the words he used in his previous comment were “perceived, if not real conflict of interest” regarding Mayor Knudsen voting on matters pertaining to the Schedler property and the Zabriskie-Schedler house. He added that he was shocked that no one has an idea what the cost will be for the Ridgewood Water portal project, it should not be embarked upon without a detailed budget, knowing how much it will cost and what the maintenance will be.
Mr. Halaby stated that when he talks about the historical study on why, the typical answer came up regarding the State, but the Village went to the State. Mayor Knudsen expressed that she didn’t understand Mr. Halaby’s comment. Mr. Halaby stated that a conversation should be had with Ms. Mailander regarding the acoustics in the room as they are terrible, Mayor Knudsen was in agreement. Mr. Halaby stated that as a resident he needs a detailed budget for the cost to preserve and restore and the cost for maintenance for the Zabriskie-Schedler house, before one more penny is spent on it. Mr. Halaby stated that he would write to the historical architects, and he would copy the Council, and ask if there has been any study on this and why the Zabriskie-Schedler house is it eligible to be considered historic.
Mr. Halaby addressed Mayor Knudsen and stated that lastly, every time he expresses his opinion he feels threatened by the fact that he is told “this has to stop.” He stated he will stop when he wants to stop and unless he’s out of order, no one is going to stop him from expressing his views, as this is protected under the First Amendment of the United States Constitution.
Mr. Halaby added that he has one last comment. His wife was looking at the Ridgewood Blog, and all at once supporters of Mayor Knudsen are beginning to play dirty games about anyone trying to come in to run for Village Council. He has also been hearing rumors about some of the people supporting Mayor Knudsen, who are almost threatening people from running.
Mayor Knudsen stopped Mr. Halaby and stated that nobody on the Village Council has control over what individuals choose to publish or write anonymously. They do not have control over other people’s actions and she can assure Mr. Halaby that if she did have control she would use it. Mr. Halaby stated that he will be 78 years old and he has seen a lot, and he is somewhat skeptical of statements like this, as he knows the people on the blog. He urged Mayor Knudsen, as a resident, to do what she can to put a stop to this behavior as they are attempting to eviscerate anyone attempting to run for Village Council, as they had tried with Councilman Voigt, but thankfully did not succeed. He stated that this behavior is shameful.
Mayor Knudsen stated that she could only hope that the same commentary was offered when herself or Councilman Hache or the Deputy Mayor or Councilwoman Walsh were in the crosshairs of the blog. She added that she appreciated the comments, but wished that they were equal opportunity. Mr. Halaby stated that Mayor Knudsen is in the crosshairs of a blog maybe 1% and other people are 99%.
Saurabh Dani, 390 Bedford Road, expressed his thanks to the Village Council.
Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that since Mr. Halaby opened up the subject of Constitutional rights, he would say that he takes exception when somebody tells him he can’t take a photograph of something. The comments made by the Village Manager now on two separate occasions regarding the taking of photographs of the Graydon sycamore tree, he disagrees with them, as you can take a photograph of anything that is within public view anytime you want as long as you are standing on public property and that public property has not been cordoned off by the Police Department. Mr. Loving added that the comments made that you cannot, or are asked not to, take a picture of the tree after February 19th, if the tree is still standing after February 19th, anybody is legally entitled to take a photograph of that tree as long as they are standing on public property that has not been cordoned off by the Police Department or the Parks Department. Therefore, if the sycamore tree doesn’t come down until February 25th, people can take pictures legally. Mr. Loving stated there was a Constitutional right to do that, as he has people tell him all the time that he can’t take a photograph of something and he has to constantly remind them that he can if he is standing on a public sidewalk and is not in the way of something.
Mr. Loving stated that many people were taken aback by comments made by the Village Manager in a news article concerning the valet parking and he knows that sometimes reporters misquote people, but if the comment, from the Village Manager of, “I expected it” was a legitimate comment about the $23,000.00 loss to the taxpayers associated with the valet program, he is quite upset by that. He added that if any employee of the Village expects that there is going to be a loss of taxpayer dollars because of a decision, something should be done about it ahead of time as opposed to allowing that loss to occur. If in fact that quote was accurate, that the Village Manager expected that the program would fail, he wondered why the Village went through with the valet parking pilot program. Mr. Loving expressed his apologies to Ms. Mailander if she was incorrectly quoted by the reporter for The Record, Nicholas Katzban, but he received a number of telephone calls when that article appeared on-line by people saying can you believe that they expected it and still went through with it. Mr. Loving added that for the future, if somebody expects to lose money, it should be stopped before it moves forward.
Mayor Knudsen stated that she doesn’t think anybody expected to take a loss. Ms. Mailander added that she didn’t state what was quoted, so she doesn’t know where it came from but the next time she speaks with Mr. Katzban she will certainly discuss it with him.
Mayor Knudsen stated that regarding the photos of the Graydon sycamore tree, they can certainly be taken as Mr. Loving rightly pointed out.
- RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION
Ms. Mailander read Resolution #17-54 to go into Closed Session as follows:
- ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Hache, seconded by Councilwoman Walsh, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Regular Public Meeting was adjourned at 9:18 P.M.
______________________________
Susan Knudsen
Mayor
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Heather A. Mailander
Village Manager/Village Clerk
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