20160608 - Village Council Regular Public Meeting Minutes
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, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY ON JUNE 8, 2016 AT 8:00 P.M.
- CALL TO ORDER – OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS ACT – ROLL CALL – FLAG SALUTE – MOMENT OF SILENCE
Mayor Aronsohn called the meeting to order at 8:03 p.m. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. At roll call, the following were present: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn. Also present were Roberta Sonenfeld, Village Manager; Heather A. Mailander, Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney.
Mayor Aronsohn led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag. Mayor Aronsohn then asked for a moment of silence to honor the men and women in the United States Armed Forces who protect and defend our freedom every day, as well as those serving as first responders.
2. ACCEPTANCE OF FINANCIAL REPORTS
Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Bills, Claims, and Vouchers, and Statement of Funds on hand as of May 31, 2016, be accepted as submitted. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Mayor Aronsohn moved that the minutes of October 28, November 9, and December 2, 2015 having been reviewed by the Village Council and now available in the Village Clerk’s Office be approved as submitted. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
4. PROCLAMATIONS
There were no proclamations this evening.
5. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Mayor Aronsohn announced that there would now be comments from the public. Jim Griffith, 159 South Irving Street, said he is here tonight to say good-bye to three friends, Mayor Aronsohn, Councilwoman Hauck, and Councilman Pucciarelli. He said that they worked hard for four years, and the marks they have left in the sand from those four years are:
- Establishment of a financial benchmark which was outstanding and goes beyond self-discipline. He said that they did it well, and he is very proud of them.
- Parking was brought to the forefront. They worked with the businesses, who described why more parking was valuable to the Central Business District (CBD). Mr. Griffith said that he hopes that the new Village Council is able to solve the parking problem.
- The operations of the Village were brought to the current times. This included restructuring the Building Department; hiring a Chief Financial Officer/Parking Utility Director who operates well; and hiring a Human Resources professional.
Mr. Griffith thanked the out-going Councilmembers for all that they accomplished over the last four years.
Dana Glazer, 61 Clinton Avenue, said that he is not convinced that Ridgewood needs a large parking garage in the CBD. The petition for the parking garage asked that it be reduced in height from four stories to three stories. He said that if it is one level down, there will be shovel in the ground. He said that the wording on the ballot was only on the cost of the parking deck, at $11.5 million and the location of it, at Hudson Street. Mr. Glazer said, don’t be fooled. Mr. Glazer said that everyone wants the CBD to thrive, and last month, three candidates were elected to the Village Council who support a parking garage that is reduced in height.
Lynne Algrant, CEO of the Bergen County Volunteer Center, said that she is here this evening because the Village Council will be adopting a resolution honoring the Bergen County Volunteer Center on its 50th Anniversary. She said that she would like to thank Ridgewood, because there are statistics that show that Ridgewood has used the services of the Bergen County Volunteer Center and that there have been volunteers from Ridgewood who have served in programs of the Bergen County Volunteer Center. Ridgewood was also the first High School to have a Teen LEADS leadership program, which is now in another town. She thanked Ridgewood again for its involvement with the Bergen County Volunteer Center. Mayor Aronsohn thanked Ms. Algrant for being at the meeting this evening and for all of the good work that the Bergen County Volunteer Center does.
Councilwoman Knudsen said that every year, when the Village Councilmembers participate in the Fourth of July parade, there are magnets on the cars giving their names and titles on the Village Council. She said that Leigh Gilsenan and Tara Masterson, the Co-Presidents of the Fourth of July Committee, are here this evening to give the magnets to the out-going Village Councilmembers. Leigh Gilsenan stated that she is pleased to present the official magnets, with the out-going Village Councilmembers’ names and titles on the Village Council. Ms. Gilsenan thanked the Village Council for their service. She also stated that the Ridgewood Fourth of July Committee does not receive funding from the Village and they rely on donations and ticket sales from the fireworks for their funding.
Meggan Lefkowitz, 22 Sherman Place, said that Sherman Place is located off of Godwin Avenue, and part of it has a blind turn, which is a major safety issue. The street is used for parking for the nearby medical building, and it gets very narrow with snow and leaves. She said that there are fourteen young children living in homes on the street. Mayor Aronsohn said that the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee has also looked at Sherman Place.
Traci Tozzi, 17 Sherman Place, said that a dead end street was opened when the medical center was built. There is no place to park for this medical building, so they park on Sherman Place. It is a very dangerous situation, and at times, cars have to back up in order to get down the street.
6. VILLAGE MANAGER’S REPORT
Ms. Sonenfeld reported that there are two ordinances on tonight’s agenda which will affect the Police Department which are the salary ordinance for Police and Police Superiors and the ordinance which will increase the fee for outside jobs (where contractors use Police Officers for traffic control) for Police Officers to $95/hour. She explained that there is a Memorandum of Agreement between the Village and the PBA and the Police Superiors unions for a two-year contract. The highlights of the contract include a 0% salary increase for two years; longevity is capped at 3%; sick leave is capped at $15,000 upon retirement for new hires; the salary range now has 13 steps to the top pay; and they will make contributions towards their health benefits, in accordance with State law. Ms. Sonenfeld stated that this has contract has required lengthy negotiations, as they began in May 2015, but it was productive. She said that the contract has an optimal balance between the Village, the Police Department, and the finances of the Village. Based on all of these facts, she is recommending that the Village Council adopt the two ordinances this evening, as they both are part of the new Police contract.
Ms. Sonenfeld said that Bergen County has a plan to combat the Zika virus, which is carried by mosquitos, and it is named, “Bergen Bites Back”. The Ridgewood Health, Building, and Property Maintenance employees are working together to give information to residents on how to prevent mosquitos from breeding on their property.
Ms. Sonenfeld stated that there have been a large number of homes with very high grass since the warm weather began. She said that for lawns that are not being maintained, they will receive a first warning, and they then have three days to comply by maintaining their lawn or they will receive a summons.
Ms. Sonenfeld reported that a resident has reported seeing a coyote during the day. She advised everyone to be careful around wild animals.
Ms. Sonenfeld indicated that there will be detours around West Glen Avenue, due to PSE&G work.
Ms. Sonenfeld stated that Graydon Pool has opened for the season. As a reminder, a Graydon Pool survey was done earlier this year, and Janice Willett, from the Financial Advisory Committee, has agreed to do a financial analysis for Graydon Pool and to review the surveys that were received. She explained that the surveys covered such areas as water quality at Graydon Pool; and bath and shower facilities. She said that over 200 residents answered the survey. Ms. Sonenfeld said that once the analysis of the financials have been completed this will be discussed in July with the new Village Council.
Ms. Sonenfeld stated that the Ridgewood Library Foundation is doing a program which is called, “One Village, One Book” this summer. The concept is that everyone in the Village would read the same book, and connect through a shared reading experience. The 2016 book is The Boys in the Boat, Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics by James Brown. There is a paperback version, which is full text and an abridged version, for grades 5 and up. The library will sponsor book discussion groups, activities, contests, and events from July through September, centered on this book. She said that this program is open to everyone who lives or works in Ridgewood, and Village employees are also going to participate.
Upcoming Events – Ms. Sonenfeld reported on the following: At the Kasschau Shell, on June 9th the Richard Reiter Swing Band will perform; June 10th is the Backwoods Ridgewood High School dance to be held at Memorial Park at Van Neste Square; every Friday night in the summer, there will be music in the night at several restaurants, which is sponsored by The Ridgewood Guild; and Meet the Manager will be held on June 11th from 9:00 a.m. to Noon in the Village Hall Court Room.
7. VILLAGE COUNCIL REPORTS
Planning Board – Councilwoman Knudsen reported that the Planning Board met for the Housing Plan element of the Master Plan. She said that the Planning Board has worked with the Village professionals to get this done. On June 21, 2016 at 7:30 p.m., the Planning Board will meet to adopt the Housing Plan element of the Master Plan and to get public input.
Ridgewood Fourth of July Committee – Councilwoman Knudsen said that this is the last Village Council meeting before the Independence Day festivities. She said that the theme this year is “America the Beautiful – Celebrating 100 Years of our National Parks”. Fireworks tickets are available for sale in area stores.
Historic Preservation Commission – The Historic Preservation Commission did not have any applications, so their meeting was cancelled.
Ridgewood Arts Council – Councilman Pucciarelli reported that the Ridgewood Arts Council will be meeting soon. He said that the work is visible in Village Hall, and they are also working with The Ridgewood Guild and the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce for music in the CBD.
Ridgewood Library – Councilman Pucciarelli commented on the One Village One Book program and said that the book is about the University of Washington crew team that won the gold medal in the 1936 Berlin Olympics.
Financial Advisory Committee (FAC) – Councilwoman Hauck said that the Financial Advisory Committee will met tomorrow evening, which is their last meeting with this Village Council. The FAC will present their annual report in July. As mentioned earlier by Ms. Sonenfeld, the FAC is also tabulating the results of the Graydon Pool survey and also is reviewing the Graydon Pool budget.
Conservancy for Public Lands – Councilwoman Hauck indicated that the Conservancy for Public Lands participated in the Daffodil Festival and the Twinney Pond Park cleanup. The lighting of Memorial Park at Van Neste Square is scheduled for October 13-19, 2016. There will also be a butterfly sensory garden at the Irene Habernickel Family Park, which will have sight, smell, and touch areas.
Community Center Advisory Board – Councilwoman Hauck said that a senior citizen survey was conducted, and the findings were presented and explained by Montclair State University to over 70 people yesterday. The survey results give a snapshot of how senior citizens feel about Ridgewood. She said that the results showed that concerning change in Ridgewood, senior citizens either like or dislike change, and there seems to be no middle ground. The survey showed that senior citizens believe that there is safe transportation for senior citizens. Some concerns realized in the survey were that senior citizens are concerned about the affordability of Ridgewood as they grow older and the experience loneliness as their friends move out of Ridgewood.
Councilman Sedon said that he has nothing new to report since last week’s meeting. He noted that on June 14th the Ridgewood Environmental Committee will meet and the Shade Tree Commission and Citizens Safety Advisory Committee will also meet on that day.
Parking – Mayor Aronsohn reported that there will be a Special Referendum election on June 21, 2016. This will be the second public vote on the Hudson Street parking deck. This is required, because the Village Council unanimously adopted a bond ordinance to fund the construction of the Hudson Street parking deck, and it was contested through a petition. Mayor Aronsohn urged everyone to go and vote in this election. He noted that there is a lot of information on the Village website about this election including traffic studies, a video, and a wealth of other information. Mayor Aronsohn explained that the referendum question is about cost ($11.5 million) and location (Hudson Street) for the parking deck. He stated that all details about the parking deck will be decided by the Village Council taking office on July 1, 2016. He urged everyone to come and vote.
Councilwoman Knudsen said that Mayor Aronsohn indicated that the design of the parking deck will be for the new Village Council to decide, yet there is a construction management firm that has been hired for a Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) and she wondered how this will affect the process. Ms. Sonenfeld replied that there is a contract with Barr and Barr to come up with a GMP, and they will come back to the new Village Council with the GMP. Councilwoman Knudsen pointed out that the GMP may fall by the wayside if the new Village Council decides on a new design for the parking deck. Ms. Sonenfeld said that it will give some idea of what the cost will be. Councilwoman Knudsen stated that after Barr and Barr has given the new Village Council with the GMP, that they will then go out to bid. Ms. Sonenfeld said that a contract has to be awarded for Barr and Barr to bid out the project.
Councilman Pucciarelli said that Plan D for the parking deck was a compromise and was the consensus of the Village Council as the design to use. There was a 5-0 vote in favor of the bond ordinance for the Hudson Street parking deck project. Councilman Pucciarelli agreed with the preparatory work which was done for Plan D, and he thanked Ms. Sonenfeld for the work that she has done on the Hudson Street parking deck project.
Councilwoman Hauck said that the parking deck saga has been so confusing to so many people. There were so many crossroads because people were being deferential. She said that the decision of the parking deck will now be up to the next Village Council. She emphasized that the CBD needs a parking deck, not because of multi-family housing developments or special interests, but so that businesses will thrive in the CBD. The referendum question on June 21, 2016 is not a vote for a particular design or size for the parking deck.
Councilman Sedon stated that there was a $120,000 change order with Desman Associates to change the design of the parking deck, and he asked what was included. Ms. Sonenfeld said that construction documents were prepared to get the GMP for Plan D of the parking garage. Councilman Sedon said that was after the Village already spent $500,000 to get the original parking design. Ms. Sonenfeld said that it was $100,000 plus $500,000. Councilman Sedon emphasized that it is his opinion that the Village spent money to get information out to the public. If the referendum question passes, then he will not change the design of the parking deck again. If you like the parking garage as the design stands now, then vote in favor of the referendum. Otherwise, wonder if it could have been made smaller. Ms. Sonenfeld that with the money already spent, there were things done, which would have been done anyway, such as a financial analysis.
Councilman Pucciarelli stated that he disagrees with Councilman Sedon. He said that residents can vote yes for the referendum question but that will not lock in Design D for the parking deck. The referendum question is a vote on the adoption of a bond ordinance which was adopted by the Village Council 5-0. He said that if no one votes on the referendum question, then the new Village Council could think that the residents don’t want a parking garage at all.
Councilwoman Knudsen stated that everyone knows how they feel about Hudson Street. She said that voters should have the facts, and everyone needs to share those facts. She said she would like to move forward. The referendum question is for the money for the parking garage, and if the money is approved by the voters, then the new Village Council will decide on the design.
Mayor Aronsohn said that the vote on June 21, 2016 is for the adoption of the bond ordinance, which all five of the Village Councilmembers supported. He emphasized that the vote is on the cost ($11.5 million) and the location (Hudson Street) for the parking deck and nothing else.
8. ORDINANCES
Mayor Aronsohn stated that there are no ordinances for introduction this evening, and the Public Hearings on ordinances would now take place.
a. Public Hearing - #3534 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Brookside Avenue Parking Restrictions
Mayor Aronsohn moved the Clerk read Ordinance 3534 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Clerk read Ordinance 3534 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-67, SCHEDULE XVII
“PARKING PROHIBITED CERTAIN HOURS” AND SECTION 265-69, SCHEDULE
XIX “TIME LIMIT PARKING”
Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3534 be closed. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Sedon, Pucciarelli and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Sedon moved that ordinance 3534 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
b. Public Hearing - #3535 – Bond Ordinance – General Capital Ordinance ($4,519,975)
Mayor Aronsohn moved the Clerk read Ordinance 3535 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Hauck seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Clerk read Ordinance 3535 by title:
BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR VARIOUS CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS IN THE
VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY APPROPRIATING
$4,519,975 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $4,293,000 BONDS
OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE PART OF THE COST THEREOF
Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3535 be closed. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Sedon, Pucciarelli and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilwoman Knudsen moved that ordinance 3535 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Hauck seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
c. Public Hearing - #3536 – Bond Ordinance – Water Utility Capital ($4,655,000)
Mayor Aronsohn moved the Clerk read Ordinance 3536 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Clerk read Ordinance 3536 by title:
BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR VARIOUS WATER UTILITY IMPROVEMENTS
IN AND BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW
JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $4,655,000 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE
OF $4,655,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE PART OF THE
COST THEREOF
Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3536 be closed. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Sedon, Pucciarelli and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Pucciarelli moved that ordinance 3536 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Prior to the votes on Ordinance 3537 and Ordinance 3538, Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she would be recusing herself from these votes because her sons are on the Civil Service certification list for the title of Police Officer.
d. Public Hearing - #3537 – Police Department Salary Ordinance
Mayor Aronsohn moved the Clerk read Ordinance 3537 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
RECUSE: Councilwoman Knudsen
The Clerk read Ordinance 3537 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO FIX SALARIES, WAGES AND OTHER COMPENSATION OF AND FOR
POLICE OFFICERS AND POLICE SUPERIOR OFFICERS OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD,
COUNTY OF BERGEN AND STATE OF NEW JERSEY
Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3537 be closed. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Sedon, Pucciarelli and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
RECUSE: Councilwoman Knudsen
Councilwoman Hauck moved that ordinance 3537 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
RECUSE: Councilwoman Knudsen
e. Public Hearing - #3538 – Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Police Officer Fees on Outside Jobs
Mayor Aronsohn moved the Clerk read Ordinance 3538 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
RECUSE: Councilwoman Knudsen
The Clerk read Ordinance 3538 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND SECTON 145-4 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF
RIDGEWOOD ENTITLED “DEPARTMENTAL FEES” AS IT PERTAIN TO THE
DEPARTMENTS OF FIRE AND POLICE
Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3538 be closed. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Sedon, Pucciarelli and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
RECUSE: Councilwoman Knudsen
Councilman Pucciarelli moved that ordinance 3538 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
RECUSE: Councilwoman Knudsen
f. Public Hearing - #3539 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Pomander Walk Parking Restrictions and U-Turn Prohibition
Mayor Aronsohn moved the Clerk read Ordinance 3539 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Hauck seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Clerk read Ordinance 3539 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD,
VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-55, SCHEDULE V “U TURN PROHIBITIONS” AND
SECTION 265-67, SCHEDULE XVII “PARKING PROHIBITED CERTAIN HOURS” AND SECTION
265-69, SCHEDULE XIX “TIME LIMIT PARKING”
Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was open. Bridget Kong, 69 Sherman Place, said that if the Village Council adopts this ordinance, to prohibit parking on Pomander Walk, the cars will park on Sherman Place, which will be horrible. She stated that there could be tick marks placed on Pomander Walk so that cars don’t park too close to driveways. She urged the Village Council to deny the ordinance change. She said that she wants a safety study done on Sherman Place. She indicated that a two-hour parking limitation should work on Pomander Walk. She explained that the residents on Pomander Walk will require on-street parking for contractors or guests and these cars will park on Sherman Place. Ms. Kong concluded by saying that she does not want the displaced cars from Pomander Walk parking on Sherman Place.
Peter Quinn, 66 Pomander Walk, said that this parking prohibition has been in process for two years. The neighborhood went to the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee. Mr. Quinn emphasized that this is a safety hazard for the residents on Pomander Walk. He explained that Pomander Walk is a small, dead end street and there are sixteen houses on it. Cars turn around in their dead end all the time. He pointed out that two weeks ago, a vehicle on the street had to back up all the way down the street. He said that ticketing does not stop the cars that exceed the time limit parking on Pomander Walk. Cars are parked up to the end of the street, which makes it difficult for residents to pull out of their driveways. He said that he does not want to confuse CBD parking with residential parking. Mr. Quinn stated that part of the business plan for the stores in the strip mall on Godwin Avenue, next to Pomander Walk, is for their overflow customers and their delivery cars to park on Pomander Walk. Mr. Quinn concluded by saying that he has three young children, and most neighbors park their cars all the way out to the sidewalks to prevent cars from parking on the street and blocking them in. He said that if the Police have to keep coming to enforce the time limit parking, then it is not effective.
Chris Reid, 112 Stanley Place, said that Stanley Place is off of Sherman Place and they have met with the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee. He does not want the parking problem pushed off onto Stanley Place. He pointed out that the entire Village has a parking problem and stated that the Police Department should give out more tickets for parking violations. He explained that if the law is not followed, then it is a police situation, and that includes speeding cars. Mr. Reid suggested that an overall solution be found for the parking problems.
Kathryn Quinn, 52 Pomander Walk, emphasized that this is a safety issue. Pomander Walk is a narrow cul-de-sac with eleven children who live there and another fourteen children who visit. Over 30% of the residents on Pomander Walk have lived there for over 25 years. Those parking on the street turn around in their driveways and park too close to the driveways. The two-hour parking limit on Pomander Walk is not enforced. The businesses in the strip mall on Godwin Avenue said that the tickets they pay are the cost of doing business. The pizza business uses Pomander Walk as a place to stage their delivery cars. Ms. Quinn said that they support the businesses, and they want them to be successful. She emphasized that the businesses are not respectful to Pomander Walk residents, and they are unique because they are a cul-de-sac. She said that if the parking prohibition on Pomander Walk is approved, then there will be parking problems on surrounding streets from these businesses.
Alyson McCormack, 51 Sherman Place, asked the Village Council to vote against this ordinance. She said that in order to eliminate the parking on Pomander Walk, the whole area needs to be studied first. She suggested that there be one side of the street parking for the whole area and paint tick marks for all of the driveways.
Adam Fox, 112 Stanley Place, said that his street has the same safety issues as Pomander Walk. All of the parking from Pomander Walk will end up on Sherman Place and Stanley Place. The Citizens Safety Advisory Committee is doing a study of the entire area.
Chris Lewer, the owner of Santoni’s Pizza at 88 Godwin Avenue, said that as a future parent, he also has safety concerns for children. He asked that there not be a parking ban on Pomander Walk. There is a huge parking problem, but he promised to work with the neighbors on Pomander Walk in order to find a solution. He will stop the delivery cars from turning around in their driveways. He said that he does not support this ordinance.
Peter Quinn, 66 Pomander Walk, said that an empty horse trailer ended up on Pomander Walk and had to back out with the help of a Police Officer. Mr. Quinn stated that he shares the concerns of Sherman Place, and he is not trying to put a burden on them. There is a parking problem and right now the incremental solution is to fix the problem on Pomander Walk.
Councilwoman Knudsen stated that the Village Council does not want to solve the problem on Pomander Walk with a sledgehammer and she asked Mr. Quinn where his guests and service providers will park when they come to his house. Mr. Quinn replied that it will be a burden for those who live on Pomander Walk, because they will not be able to park on their own street. Mr. Quinn said that they would probably use neighbor’s driveways for guests and service providers. He said that although the neighborhood appreciates the extra Police Officer on Pomander Walk, who have been issuing overtime parking tickets, it does not deter those who do so from doing it again. Mr. Quinn said that Pomander Walk residents just want some relief.
Councilman Pucciarelli asked if the Pomander Walk neighbors have spoken with the owner of the strip mall on Godwin Avenue. Mr. Quinn said that the only conversation he had with the owner of the strip mall was about the dumpster. The problem is not with the owner, but rather the tenants of the strip mall. Councilman Pucciarelli said that the owner could enforce the lease provisions. Mr. Quinn pointed out that Whole Foods employees also park on Pomander Walk all day. Councilman Pucciarelli pointed out that it is not illegal to park a car on a public street. Mr. Quinn said that it is not illegal, but it is a health and safety hazard for those living on Pomander Walk.
Councilman Pucciarelli said that the lease for the stores in the strip mall may have included Pomander Walk as an area where they could park. Mr. Quinn said that when the strip mall was built, the businesses at that time did not need as many parking spaces as do the businesses that are there now. Councilman Pucciarelli pointed out that during the day, there is no public parking on the west side of the CBD, and there is inadequate on-site parking at the strip mall. Mr. Quinn said that he does not know of any other business that uses a residential street for parking for their business.
Councilwoman Knudsen said that she looked for the deed restrictions on this property, and nothing is there. She said that she has been on Pomander Walk and the delivery vehicles go down to the end of the cul-de-sac and loop around to turn around. She said that it is like a raceway. However, the manager of the pizza place did say that he would speak with the delivery people about being cautious and safe.
Councilwoman Knudsen again asked where the guests and service people will park for all of those homes on Pomander Walk. She said that if people who park on Pomander Walk now are ignoring the two-hour time limit signs, then they could also ignore the No Parking signs. Mr. Quinn said he realizes that Village residents want to be able to park on Village streets.
Kathryn Quinn, 52 Pomander Walk, pointed out that Washington Place has a parking lot. Ms. Sonenfeld said that there are also parking spaces near MacMurphy’s restaurant, across from Smoked, adjacent to the train station parking lot. Ms. Quinn said that many of the workers at the strip mall park on Pomander Walk. She stated that the neighbors tried to work with the pizza place, but they are worried about the safety of the children on the street and they are trying to prevent an accident.
Traci Tozzi, 17 Sherman Place, said that they also get U-Turns on their street, and it is done three times as often. She explained that they are inundated on Sherman Place, because it is coming from all directions.
Chris Lewer, the manager of Santoni’s Pizza, said that all parents are concerned about the children’s safety. He pointed out that the parents have to also take some responsibility and teach their children not to play near the street. Mr. Lewer said that Whole Foods has overflow parking on Pomander Walk also, so it is not just his customers who are parking there. He said that customers are allowed to overflow park onto public streets. If parking is prohibited around that area, then all of the businesses in the area will be strangled. Mr. Lewer again said that he would educate his employees and would talk to continue to talk to them about safety and being courteous to the neighborhood. He also offered to speak with the residents. He emphasized that everyone is concerned about the children’s safety.
Meggan Lefkowitz, 22 Sherman Place, said that this is not about parking, it is about safety. The children are the most important issue. When they call the Police to come, they say it is a disaster waiting to happen. She emphasized that the most important thing is the safety of the children.
There were no further comments from the public and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3539 be closed. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Sedon, Pucciarelli and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Sedon moved that ordinance 3539 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Hauck seconded the motion.
Prior to the vote on ordinance 3539, there was discussion. Councilman Sedon said that the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee, the Police Department and the Engineering Department are looking at Stanley Place and Sherman Place. The results will be available in either June or July. If nothing is done, then there will be no relief for the residents on Pomander Walk. He said that he supports the parking ban on Pomander Walk and if this create parking issues on other streets, then the Village Council can revisit this decision. The Citizens Safety Advisory Committee recommended adopting the parking ban on Pomander Walk in conjunction with looking at the whole area. He said that perhaps there could be a change to allow parking on only one side of the streets in that area.
Councilwoman Hauck said that she believes that safety is a concern and she does not want to restrict the businesses. She would like to see this be a positive experience and have everyone come together. There is an issue on Pomander Walk because it is a dead end. Councilwoman Hauck noted that there are several precedents for have no parking on either side of the street, such as near many of the schools; on Clinton Avenue; in commuter areas, like Upper Boulevard; and on narrow, dangerous roads such as Cottage Place. She said that the safety and welfare of the people is important and if this solution doesn’t work, then a new solution can be found. Councilwoman Hauck pointed out that the parking ban on Pomander Walk has been studied for a long time, and the situation is getting worse. She said that everyone should support each other. She concluded by stating that she is proud to live in Ridgewood.
Councilman Pucciarelli said that it is great to have reasonable people. In this case, there are competing interests, and one of them is a business interest. He does not want to study this any longer. He agrees that safety trumps all. He said that he does not want to go to the extreme of having a parking ban on Pomander Walk; instead, he would like to start with parking on one side of the street only, and eliminate the parking on the west side of the street. The neighbors and the business can then see how well that works, and then can evaluate whether something further needs to be done.
Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she agrees with Councilman Pucciarelli. Removing all of the parking on Pomander Walk will create its own problems. She said that she believes it can be resolved with one side of the street parking and enforcement by the Police Department for the two-hour time limit. Councilwoman Knudsen indicated that if the speeding continues, perhaps speed bumps should be looked into, like the one on South Broad Street. She also stated that the fines for violating the two-hour parking restriction should be increased, because then it will be too expensive to add it in as a cost of doing business. Councilwoman Knudsen said that everyone says there is a problem, from Ms. Quinn to the neighbors on Stanley Place and Sherman Place, to the manager of the pizza place. She thinks it can be worked out.
Mayor Aronsohn explained that he has been involved with this request for a few years. It went to the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee quite some time ago. He said that it was a problem then, and it continues to be a problem. Mayor Aronsohn said on the Friday of Memorial Day weekend, he spent an hour on Pomander Walk, from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. to observe what was going on. He said that he saw that the cars of four employees of the strip mall were parked on Pomander Walk, right at the corners, which is a violation. He also saw parking issues on Stanley Place and Sherman Place. At this time, Mayor Aronsohn emphasized that there needs to be relief for Pomander Walk, which has been recommended by the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee. He said that the next Village Council can discuss what can be done to solve the parking issues on Sherman Place and Stanley Place.
There being no further discussion by the Village Council, Mayor Aronsohn called for the vote on ordinance 3539.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: Councilmembers Knudsen and Pucciarelli
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
9. RESOLUTIONS
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 16-147 THROUGH 16-177WERE CONSIDERED ON A CONSENT AGENDA, WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:
10. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Mayor Aronsohn announced that there would now be comments from the public. Leonard Eisen, 762 Upper Boulevard, thanked the current Village Council for working so hard and for all that they did for the Village.
Paul Vagianos, 280 Rivera Court, asked if he is correct that if the parking referendum passes, this Village Council will not take any action on the Hudson Street parking deck, and it will be left up to the new Village Council. He reiterated that under no circumstances will this Village Council make a decision on the Hudson Street parking deck.
Mayor Aronsohn replied that the current Village Council will not be able to take any action on the Hudson Street parking deck if the referendum passes. Mr. Vagianos said that he wants to confirm again that there is absolutely no way that the current Village Council will take any action on the Hudson Street parking deck. Mr. Vagianos emphasized that the word absolutely is critical. Mayor Aronsohn replied that there are no plans for this Village Council to take action on the Hudson Street parking deck, and he encouraged people to vote on June 21, 2016.
Councilwoman Hauck said that the current Village Council has laid some great groundwork for the future. She pointed out that all five of the current Councilmembers voted to adopt the bond ordinance to build the Hudson Street parking deck. She said that her time on the Village Council is over, but she will be voting on June 21, 2016.
Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, said that people should vote no on the referendum, because they will not approve the $11.5 million. The new Village Council may decide on a smaller version of the parking deck that will not cost $11.5 million.
Ms. Loving said that she would like dogs to be allowed in Village parks. If they don’t pick up after their dogs, then they can be issued tickets. Councilman Pucciarelli said that this Village Council cannot change an ordinance now, so it will have to go to the new Village Council. Ms. Sonenfeld said that she saw a document where the Parks, Recreation, and Conservation Board voted 6-1 against allowing dogs in Village parks. She said that she has asked Dawn Cetrulo, Supervisor of the Health Department, to look at the pros and cons of allowing dogs in Village parks. Ms. Sonenfeld said that once the facts and data are available, then it will be discussed. Councilwoman Knudsen said that the next Village Council will discuss this matter. Ms. Loving hoped that this would move as quickly as the relaxing of enforcement for the A-frame signs in the CBD.
Saurabh Dani, 390 Bedford Terrace, is concerned that if the referendum passes, the current Village Council will try to do something to start the construction on the Hudson Street parking deck during their last nine days in office. Mayor Aronsohn said that the current Village Council would not behave that way. Ms. Sonenfeld said that the Village cannot just go and issue a bond, it is a process. Councilwoman Knudsen said that if the referendum passes on June 21, 2016, then a Special Public Meeting could be convened to issue a bond for the Hudson Street parking deck. Mr. Rogers said that nine days is not enough time to do so. Ms. Sonenfeld said that the referendum is up to $11.5 million, which does not mean that $11.5 million will be spent.
Councilwoman asked about the GMP for the project and when it will be available. Ms. Sonenfeld replied that Barr and Barr has indicated that it will take five to six weeks.
Mr. Dani said that it has been said that the referendum is a binding election, and he asked if it passes, is the new Village Council bound to that dollar amount and the Hudson Street location. If that is the case, then the new Village Council will not be able to relocate the parking deck to another location nor will they be able to build several smaller parking decks.
Councilman Pucciarelli said that if the referendum passes, it is another tool in place for the new Village Council. The new Village Council can either decide to move forward with building the parking deck on Hudson Street or they can decide to build nothing.
Claude Bienstock, 39-11 B Broadway, Fair Lawn, NJ, said that Ridgewood has a parking problem. The new Village Council will have some hard decisions to make, and their number one concern should be public safety. He said that he wishes everyone the best. He pointed out that not every decision that the Village Council makes will have 100% approval. He also pointed out that too much noise or traffic will affect property values. He concluded by stating that the Village Council should do what is in the best interests of the people and he likes to see problems get solved.
Lorraine Reynolds, 550 Wyndemere Avenue, wondered why the referendum election is being held before July 1st if the new Village Council will decide on the size of the parking garage and the design. She said that this come down to a matter of trust. The public has felt that they have had no input into the design of the parking garage, so she urged residents to vote down the referendum.
Ms. Reynolds said that other options should also be explored such as making the side streets in Ridgewood one-way streets to create extra parking spots. She said that the majority of residents trust that the new Village Council will come up with an overall plan with a parking garage and other improvements to solve the parking problem in the CBD. She said don’t be fooled by a referendum question again, and vote the referendum down so that the new Village Council can listen to everybody and create an overall parking solution.
Councilman Pucciarelli pointed out that the design D of the Hudson Street parking deck was decided after the referendum question at the November General Election passed. He also said that it was discussed fully.
Councilwoman Hauck said that she is offended by these comments, said that this Village Council has given the residents time to give their input into the design of the parking deck on Hudson Street, and the compromises have been frequent. She said that the Village Council meetings on this matter have been exhausting and thorough. She said that the discourse which has taken place at Village Council meetings is not encouraging for residents to enjoy the process the way they should.
Councilwoman Hauck pointed out that a portion of the public was tenacious in getting control of the issue, from the Village Council, because a group of petitioners wanted to overturn two ordinances adopted by the Village Council. The Village conceded control to the residents by allowing for transparency and input multiple times on the design of the parking deck. In doing so, the residents did not let the Village Council fully adopt the bond ordinance for the construction of the parking deck, which was adopted unanimously, because they successfully submitted a petition to stop the funding from that bond ordinance from being effective. Councilwoman Hauck said that now it is up to the public whether or not the funding for the parking deck on Hudson Street will become effective. She said that the public has not been gracious in their treatment of the Village Council when the Village Council has allowed for public input throughout the process.
Melanie Hooban, 431 Bogert Avenue, asked if it was the tenacious, small group of people who loudly spoke at the May 10th Municipal Election when they elected the three people to the Village Council that Councilwoman Hauck did not endorse. Councilwoman Hauck said that she is not speaking about the election at all, she is speaking about the parking deck and its funding. Everyone needs to respect each other’s views.
Councilwoman Knudsen said that when she was elected to the Village Council two years ago, it was exciting, but she never could have anticipated the amount of work that was required. She said that the Village Councilmembers spend a great deal of time between the various Boards and Committees they serve on as liaisons as well as Village Council meetings. She noted that yesterday, she sat in on Councilwoman Hauck’s senior citizen assessment survey, which took a great amount of work. Councilwoman Knudsen emphasized that the regardless of how people feel about the parking deck, what can never be ignored is the great amount of work that the Village Councilmembers have put in, can never be ignored. She thanked Mayor Aronsohn, Councilwoman Hauck, and Councilman Pucciarelli for their service to the community.
11. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Sedon, seconded by Councilman Pucciarelli, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 10:40 P.M.
_________________________________ Paul S. Aronsohn Mayor
_________________________________ Heather A. Mailander Village Clerk
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