Village Council Public Meeting 20160210
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 FEBRUARY 10, 2016 AT 8:00 P.M.
1. CALL TO ORDER – OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS ACT – ROLL CALL – FLAG SALUTE – MOMENT OF SILENCE
Mayor Aronsohn called the meeting to order at 8:00 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.
The flag salute was led by Girl Scout Troop 95319 from Hawes School and Tiger Cubs Den Pack 55 from Somerville School.
Mayor Aronsohn thanked the Girl Scout and Tiger Cubs for leading the Pledge of Allegiance, and asked for a moment of silence in honor of the American men and women serving in our Armed Forces, 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 January 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 Village Council minutes of August 12, September 9, September 16, and September 30, 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. Prior to the vote, Councilwomen Hauck and Knudsen both stated that they wished that they had more time to review the minutes, so both said they would abstain from the vote on approval of the minutes.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: Councilwomen Hauck and Knudsen
4. PROCLAMATIONS
A. DAD’S NIGHT DAYS – HAWES SCHOOL AND SOMERVILLE SCHOOL
Councilwoman Knudsen read the following proclamation:
After reading the proclamation, it was presented to Ryan Greeney, who explained that this is 72nd year that Dad’s Night has been performed. He stated that there are 250 Dads who participate in this event each year, and as a 501c3 organization, they donate money to various charities.
B. READ ACROSS AMERICA DAY
Councilman Sedon read the following proclamation:
C. SUPER SCIENCE SATURDAY
Councilman Pucciarelli read the following proclamation:
D. HONOR JAMES GRIFFITH
Mayor Aronsohn read the following proclamation:
After reading the proclamation, Councilwoman Hauck spoke and said that Jim Griffith is being honored by the Village Council, the Ridgewood Public Library and the Habitat for Humanity organization this winter. She read a letter from The Reverend Monsignor Ronald J. Rozniak, of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church who could not be present this evening to commend him on everything he has done for the church and for the Village as a whole. A representative of Habitat for Humanity thanked Mr. Griffith for the twenty years of service he has given to the organization. Mr. Griffith said that he has been honored tonight for what he has done for various organizations, but what they didn’t say was how much fun he had doing what he did for those organizations. He thanked the Village Council very much, for their sincerity.
5. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Mayor Aronsohn announced that there would now be comments from the public. Lorraine Reynolds, 550 Wyndemere Avenue, said that there are no drawings available for the new design of the Hudson Street parking deck. She asked when the new design, which does not encroach five feet into Hudson Street, will be available. Ms. Reynolds urged the Village Council not to approve the Bergen County Improvement Authority (BCIA) Lease Agreement for the Hudson Street Parking Deck; instead, they should approve bonding it within Ridgewood.
Ed Rubin, 1021 Hillcrest Road, said that the Village Manager indicated that there are FAQs on the website about the establishment of HealthBarn at the Gate House at the Irene Habernickel Family Park. Mr. Rubin asked that the Village Council not vote on this matter this evening. Mr. Rubin said that there is a dangerous cliff at the park, and a collapsed fence at the playground and it is a bad idea for the Department of Parks and Recreation to be the landlord for HealthBarn. Mr. Rubin explained that the HealthBarn programs will run from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and to 9:00 p.m. on two evenings. He asked what the neighbors will do if there is a problem with HealthBarn in the evening, because the landlord will not be available to rectify the situation.
Mark Rubin, 1021 Hillcrest Road, said that there is a clear connection between Village Manager, Roberta Sonenfeld and Stacey Antine, the owner of HealthBarn, because they were in the same Bergen LEADS class. He emphasized that this is a conflict of interest. Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney, indicated that this is not a conflict of interest, because these women were in classes together six years ago. Mr. Rubin said that a compromise is that the safety issues should be addressed before the HealthBarn business is able to open.
Steve Belloise said he is appearing on behalf of Monsignor Rozniak who sent a letter to the BCIA that they should not provide funding to Ridgewood for the Hudson Street parking deck. Mr. Belloise said that it is clear that the BCIA is only a means to the end of getting the Hudson Street parking deck built. Mr. Belloise stated that he wants to make it clear that the parish is not opposed to the Hudson Street parking deck, but there are some serious issues such as street encroachment, the loss of parking spaces on Hudson Street, and the fact that the special needs school will be impacted if it is built. The parish did not say that the Hudson Street parking deck would cause irreparable harm. Mr. Belloise said that John Jahr who did a traffic study of the area indicated that more studies were needed. Mr. Belloise concluded by saying that they are opposed to the project as it stands at this time. Mayor Aronsohn asked if the entire statement by Mr. Belloise is on behalf of the parish, including the comments about the BCIA. Mr. Belloise said that all of his statements are on behalf of the parish of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church.
Gail McCarthy, 153 Hope Street, said that a group is circulating a petition to repeal Ordinance 3519 and if anyone wants more information, they should go to notobcia@gmail.com.
Jim Clifford, 318 Richards Road, said that leasing the Gate House, located in a public park, to a business is wrong. There will be a negative impact on the neighborhood. He asked if the public will see the lease with HealthBarn before it is signed.
Mr. Rogers replied that the lease with HealthBarn is still being negotiated. Mr. Clifford asked again if the public will see the lease before it is signed. Ms. Sonenfeld explained that the FAQs will be added to the lease with HealthBarn. Mr. Clifford emphasized that no one will make sure that the lease with HealthBarn is in the best interest of the Village. He pointed out that the rent being charged to HealthBarn is $3,700/month, which is $8/square foot. He indicated that in the area, business space is renting for $15/square foot, so the rent is below market rate. Mr. Clifford would like to see a part of the lease which states that if HealthBarn has higher sales, then the Village can charge higher rent to HealthBarn. He emphasized that HealthBarn should provide quarterly sales reports to the Village and if sales are above a certain number or percentage increase, then the rent can be raise. Mr. Clifford also stated that there should be a term to the lease or else it should be a month to month lease.
Marjorie Koestner, 1022 Hillcrest Road, said that she disagrees with HealthBarn being located at the Irene Habernickel Family Park, because it has not been proven that the benefits will outweigh the detriments. Ms. Koestner stated that five to ten cars per day on Hillcrest Road will now turn into 100 cars per day in and out of the park, as parents drop off and pick up their children from classes at HealthBarn. Ms. Koestner said that she pulled the deed for the property, and it indicates that the property should be used for recreation and conservation purposes. She said that HealthBarn is not the Ridgewood Recreation program offering classes; instead, it is a commercial business doing classes. Ms. Koestner said that there is beautiful wildlife on the pond and garbage in the pond will affect the wildlife. Before the vote, Ms. Koestner wants a traffic study and an environmental report completed.
Councilwoman Hauck asked how Ms. Koestner can be sure that the benefits will not outweigh the detriments once HealthBarn is located at the park. Councilwoman Hauck pointed out that her view is that the Village preserved the park from development and the pond is very healthy because it is regulated. The park is designed for use and at the present time, there is minimal use of the Irene Habernickel Family Park. HealthBarn is an extraordinary partnership for the Village.
Ed Feldsott, 67 Heights Road, stated that the Mt. Carmel parish is opposed to the Hudson Street parking deck, and the residents were misled on the referendum at the November General Election, because he did not vote for a large garage. Mr. Feldsott emphasized that the Village council turned their backs on the residents.
There were no further comments from the public at this time.
Ms. Sonenfeld said that she would like to give her perspective on the allegations of her relationship with Stacey Antine. She pointed out that the Ridgewood Recreation Department had a relationship with Ms. Antine, because she did classes for the summer camp rom 2011-2013, which was before Ms. Sonenfeld was Village Manager. Ms. Sonenfeld went on to say that Bergen LEADS is a nine-month program that meets once per month, and has 30 students in a class. After graduating from Bergen LEADS in 2010, she has not seen Stacey Antine for the last six years.
Ms. Sonenfeld pointed out that only part of the Gate House is being rented to Ms. Antine. The 2050 square feet that HealthBarn is renting turns out to be $21.66/square foot. Ms. Sonenfeld explained that the Village went out to bid three times for rental of 1027 Hillcrest Road (the Gate House), by advertising in The Record newspaper. The first two times it was for residential, with no bids being received. The third time was for educational and recreational program purposes and the only response was from HealthBarn.
Ms. Sonenfeld said that to address the environmental concerns, the Village went out to the NJ Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), and Janet Fricke, Assistant to the Village Manager, indicated that there will be another review by the NJDEP. Ms. Sonenfeld explained that HealthBarn will not be involved with anything concerning the riparian buffer area of the pond.
Ms. Sonenfeld said that Ed Rubin indicated that the Recreation Department would be the landlord when in fact, it will be the Village of Ridgewood that will be the landlord. Concerning the traffic study, Ms. Fricke pointed out that a winter traffic study has not yet been done, due to weather related issues.
Councilman Pucciarelli asked if termination on the part of the landlord is covered in the lease. Councilwoman Knudsen asked about quarterly reports from HealthBarn. Ms. Sonenfeld said that the report has not been finalized. Councilwoman Knudsen said that the quarterly reports will confirm that the programming is correct and the class size is appropriate.
Ms. Sonenfeld introduced Matthew Jessup, Village Bond Counsel, to speak to the questions on the Hudson Street Parking Deck. Mr. Jessup said that the actual amount of the bonds is $10 million. The actual amount to be spent on the parking deck is $11.243 million. Ms. Sonenfeld pointed out that these are still estimates. Councilwoman Knudsen asked why the bond ordinance sates that it is for $12.3 million. Ms. Sonenfeld explained that it is up to $12.3 million, and she would not recommend changing the amount of the ordinance, because only the amount of money needed for the parking deck will be spent. Mr. Jessup further explained that with a capital ordinance, there should be a higher number, so that there is enough money for a project. Then, every couple of years, the unexpended balances of capital ordinances for projects that are complete are cleared out and put into the budget.
Ms. Sonenfeld explained that by building the parking deck with the BCIA, the amortization schedule can be structured. This would not be the case if it money for the parking deck is funded through a Village bond ordinance. Mr. Jessup explained that at the end of the lease, the title to the parking deck is returned to the Village of Ridgewood.
Mr. Jessup stated that municipal bonds are fixed rate bond, and the interest rates are locked in. In the tenth year or after, the bonds plus the accrued interest rate can be paid off by refinancing the bonds. Councilman Pucciarelli asked if it would be a fixed amount that the Village would pay if the parking deck were financed through the Village. Mr. Jessup said that the Village will know how much will be paid every six months, and the goal is to keep it level.
Councilman Sedon asked what will be done if the cost overruns on the parking deck project exceed the $12.3 million appropriated in the bond ordinance. Mr. Jessup said that the amount could be supplemented with an additional bond ordinance. This is true whether the Village finances it on its own or through the BCIA.
Ms. Sonenfeld commented on the design issues for the Hudson Street parking deck and indicated that the renderings will be ready early next week. The current design is a curb to curb width of 26 feet, and the parking spaces will remain on the south side of Hudson Street. Six parking spaces will be lost, which will provide more room for driving down Hudson Street. Ms. Sonenfeld also said that the diagrams will show that the towers had eight feet taken off of them. Ms. Sonenfeld indicated that Councilwoman Knudsen and Councilman Pucciarelli met today for a new draft rendering.
6. VILLAGE MANAGER’S REPORT
Ms. Sonenfeld congratulated the Police Department for arresting those involved in a carjacking in Ridgewood on December 26, 2015.
Ms. Sonenfeld reported that there have been two leaf forums with residents and there has been good dialogue. There will have to be enhanced communication with residents about the leaf pickups this coming fall.
Ms. Sonenfeld explained that the Footprint Study is to look at the buildings owned by the Village to determine if there is a better way to reconfigure the buildings that the Village currently owns. This will be brought to the Village Council in May, after the study has been completed.
Ms. Sonenfeld stated that she held an Annual Town Hall Meeting with all staff today, to bring them up to date on various things happening in the Village.
Ms. Sonenfeld announced that on February 18th, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. there will be a presentation for the Village employees presented by AFLAC on disability insurance and flexible spending accounts.
Ms. Sonenfeld was thrilled to announce that the Village has been awarded the Gold Award from the Joint Insurance Fund for safety training measures. One of these safety measures was that the Human Resources Director researched the driver’s licenses for all employees driving Village vehicles. The Village will receive $2,000 to be spent on the Village staff.
Ms. Sonenfeld stated that on March 9, 2016 there will be a special Work Session which will be a presentation of the multi-family housing impact studies. This will be held at the Campus Center of the Ridgewood High School. On March 23, 2016 Public Hearings on the multi-family ordinances will be held.
Upcoming Events – Ms. Sonenfeld reminded everyone that Village Hall offices, the Stable and Village Services will be suspended on February 12th and February 15th for Lincoln’s Birthday and Presidents’ Day. On February 20th, Ms. Sonenfeld will have Meet the Manager.
7. VILLAGE COUNCIL REPORTS
BCIA Meeting on Hudson Street Parking Deck – Councilman Pucciarelli commented on the BCIA meeting about the potential Lease Agreement for the Hudson Street parking deck. He said that the comments on both sides were thoughtful. The new design of the Hudson Street parking deck will have real bricks, and will encroach onto the Hudson Street sidewalk by four feet, six inches. This is responsive to the criticisms which the Village Council heard at the previous meetings.
Green Team Advisory Committee – Councilman Sedon reported that the Green Team welcomed new members, and they will be going through the Sustainable Jersey grants that may be available to the Village.
Ridgewood Environmental Advisory Committee (REAC) – Councilman Sedon stated that REAC met and held a beekeeping seminar. On March 3, 2016 at the Library, the movie, Bag It, will be shown. This is about getting rid of plastic bags in order to help save the environment, which is something he would like to do in the Village. REAC is also getting ready for Earth Day, which will be held on April 17, 2016, in connection with the Daffodil Festival which is sponsored by the Conservancy for Public Lands.
Shade Tree Commission – Councilman Sedon said that the Shade Tree Commission discussed plantings for the fall season.
8. ORDINANCES
a. Introduction - #3520 – Bond Ordinance – Road Resurfacing and Reconstruction ($1.2 million)
Mayor Aronsohn moved the first reading of Ordinance 3520. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3520 by title:
BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE 2016 ROAD RESURFACING PROGRAM IN
THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY,
APPROPRIATING $1,200,000 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF
$1,051,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE PART OF THE COST
THEREOF
Councilwoman Knudsen moved that Ordinance 3520 be adopted on first reading and that March 9, 2016, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
b. Public Hearings - None
c. Final Vote - #3519 – Leasing Agreement with the Bergen County Improvement Authority
Mayor Aronsohn explained that Ordinance 3519 was introduced on January 6, 2016 and the Public Hearing on this ordinance was held and closed on January 27, 2016. Mayor Aronsohn stated that at this time, the Village Council will be voting on Ordinance 3519.
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3519 by title:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN,
NEW JERSEY APPROVING THE FORM AND AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION AND
DELIVERY OF A LEASE PURCHASE AGREEMENT WITH THE BERGEN COUNTY
IMPROVEMENT AUTHORITY RELATING TO THE ISSUANCE OF COUNTY
GUARANTEED LEASE REVENUE BONDS, SERIES 2016 (VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD
PARKING DECK PROJECT) BY THE BERGEN COUNTY IMPROVEMENT AUTHORITY
Councilman Pucciarelli moved that Ordinance 3519 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Hauck seconded the motion.
Prior to the vote on Ordinance 3519, Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she has some concerns with this ordinance. She wanted a plan as to where the parking meter rates and hours were going to be increased, but there was no plan given. Councilwoman Knudsen said that she had a conversation with Father Ronald Rozniak, of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, who is concerned with this Lease Agreement with the BCIA. She stated that there are some benefits and some detriments for financing the Hudson Street Parking Deck with the BCIA. One detriment is that non-residents would be charged the same amount as residents in the parking deck. Councilwoman Knudsen said that she thinks the Village should bond this in-house, in order to maintain control.
Councilman Sedon thanked everyone involved in this process, including the BCIA. He said that there will be a parking garage at Hudson Street, but he wants to see a plan to see what the parking meter rates will be. He emphasized that he does not want to increase taxes in order to fund the parking garage.
Councilman Pucciarelli said that he will vote in favor of this ordinance. He stated that he is proud of the process and now is the time to proceed.
Councilwoman Hauck said that time is of the essence, and the latest design took into account the concerns of Mt. Carmel Church. It is a huge reduction in size and will park 120 fewer cars and will sit within the footprint. Councilwoman Hauck stated that it will be nice to say the Village has accomplished this project.
Mayor Aronsohn stated that this has been an incredible process, because he originally approached the BCIA three years ago about this project. He explained that he met with Father Ron Rozniak and with Father Ron and the BCIA together. Mayor Aronsohn stated that he has heard from other pastors from churches in the area, and they are in favor of the project. Mayor Aronsohn said that he is excited about this project.
Mayor Aronsohn reminded everyone that up until last year, both residents and non-residents paid the same amount for parking throughout the Village. Last year, the rates for the non-resident Ridgewood Parking Permit (RPP) was double the RPP for residents. Mayor Aronsohn said that the parking meter rates will be forthcoming, and he believes that the parking deck will be built.
Mayor Aronsohn opined that the Village is at a great moment because there will be a great partnership with the BCIA. This is a win for Ridgewood and a win for the BCIA. Mayor Aronsohn called for the final vote on Ordinance 3519.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: Councilmembers Knudsen and Sedon
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Prior to the continued Public Hearings on Ordinance #3489 through Ordinance #3493, Mayor Aronsohn explained that the Public Hearings on all of these ordinances will be continued to a Special Public Meeting on March 23, 2016. The continued Public Hearings have been advertised for this evening, so anyone wishing to speak may do so at this time, but there will be no vote on these ordinances until March 23, 2016.
d. Continued Public Hearing - #3489 – Amend Chapter 190 – Land Use and Development – Establish AH-2 Zone District
Mayor Aronsohn moved the sixth reading of Ordinance 3489 and that the Public Hearing be continued. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3489 by title:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD AMENDING THE ZONE CLASSIFICATION AND REGULATIONS FOR CERTAIN PROPERTIES FROM THE B-2 ZONE DISTRICT INTO A NEW AH-2 ZONE DISTRICT
Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was now continued. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3489 be continued to March 23, 2016. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
e. Continued Public Hearing - #3490 – Amend Chapter 190 – Land Use and Development – Establish B-3-R Zone District
Mayor Aronsohn moved the sixth reading of Ordinance 3490 and that the Public Hearing be continued. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers, Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3490 by title:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD CHANGING THE ZONE CLASSIFICATION FOR CERTAIN PROPERTIES FROM THE B-1, B-2 AND C ZONE DISTRICTS TO A NEW B-3-R ZONE DISTRICT AND ADOPTING REGULATIONS FOR THE NEW B-3-R ZONE DISTRICT
Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was now continued. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3490 be continued to March 23, 2016. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
f. Continued Public Hearing - #3491 – Amend Chapter 190 – Land Use and Development – Establish C-R Zone
Mayor Aronsohn moved the sixth reading of Ordinance 3491 and that the Public Hearing be continued. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3491 by title:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD CHANGING THE ZONE CLASSIFICATION OF CERTAIN PROPERTIES FROM THE C ZONE DISTRICT TO A NEW C-R ZONE DISTRICT AND ADOPTING REGULATIONS FOR THE NEW C-R ZONE DISTRICT
Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was continued. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3491 be continued to March 23, 2016. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
g. Continued Public Hearing - #3492 – Amend Chapter 190 – Land Use and Development – Establish C- Zone District
Mayor Aronsohn moved the sixth reading of Ordinance 3492 and that the Public Hearing be continued. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3492 by title:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD AMENDING THE ZONE REGULATIONS FOR THE C ZONE DISTRICT
Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was continued. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3492 be continued to March 23, 2016. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
h. Continued Public Hearing - #3493 – Amend Chapter 190 – Land use and Development – Amend Various Sections – Multiple Zone Districts and General Affordable Housing Regulations
Mayor Aronsohn moved the sixth reading of Ordinance 3493 and that the Public Hearing be continued. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3493 by title:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD AMENDING VARIOUS DEFINITIONS AND REGULATIONS PERTAINING TO INCLUSIONARY DEVELOPMENT, RESIDENTIAL AND NONRESIDENTIAL ZONES, YARDS ABUTTING RAILROADS, NUMBER OF PRINCIPAL BUILDINGS, PARKING BENEATH BUILDINGS, SIGNS IN RESIDENTIAL ZONE DISTRICTS, OUTDOOR STORAGE IN RESIDENTIAL ZONES, DISPLAY OF MOTOR VEHICLES FOR SALE, AND RECREATIONAL FACILITIES FOR RESIDENTIAL USES
Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was continued. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3493 be continued to March 23, 2016. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
9. RESOLUTIONS
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 16-35 THROUGH 16-65 WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA, WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 16-66 THROUGH 16-67 WERE CONSIDERED SEPARATELY AND READ IN FULL BY THE VILLAGE CLERK:
Councilman Pucciarelli moved that Resolution #16-67 be adopted. There was no second to Councilman Pucciarelli’s motion.
Councilwoman Hauck said that since the terms of the lease with HealthBarn, USA are not yet settled, she will not approve the execution of the lease until she sees it. Councilwoman Knudsen agreed with Councilwoman Hauck. Councilman Pucciarelli said that progress has been made on the lease with HealthBarn USA and it is occupying only a portion of the Gate House at 1057 Hillcrest Road. He agreed that the final version of the lease should be seen before it is approved for execution. Mr. Rogers said that the lease will probably be ready in two weeks. Ms. Sonenfeld said that this will allow Green Acres to take another look at the final lease.
Councilwoman Hauck asked if the delay of the execution of the lease will affect HealthBarn’s business. David Rutherford, attorney for HealthBarn, USA, stated that HealthBarn is under severe time constraints, because the kitchen needs to be improved.
Mayor Aronsohn said that he would like to approve the lease with HealthBarn, USA next week. Councilwoman Knudsen said that she will need more than a day to review the final lease. Councilwoman Hauck said that she hopes that HealthBarn will be able to begin business soon.
10. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Lorraine Reynolds, 550 Wyndemere Avenue, said that Father Ron, of Mt. Carmel Church, is not happy with the new design of the Hudson Street parking deck. Ms. Reynolds read from an email written by Jim McCarthy, which stated that if the Village funds the parking deck with the BCIA, the Village will pay $92,000 more net than if a bond ordinance to fund it is adopted in Ridgewood.
Corrinne Clifford, 318 Richards Road, said that in her estimation, she saw 20 emails opposed to the change in use of the Gate House at the Irene Habernickel Family Park. She asked what the benefit is to Ridgewood residents, to have HealthBarn located in the Gate House. She said that this business is opposed by the neighbors of the park. She is surprised that the Village Council has no concerns over the commercialization of the Gate House and pointed out that nay sport could fall under a recreational or educational use and could rent out the Gate House also. Ms. Clifford asked how much money will have to be spent for additional staff to oversee HealthBarn and its activities. She concluded by saying that the Irene Habernickel Family Park should remain for active and passive recreational uses, and there should be no significant change in its use.
Bob Fuhrman, 49 Clinton Avenue, said that most people at the meetings have negative views on things. He pointed out that at the November General Election, where there was a referendum question about a parking deck on Hudson Street, a large majority voted in favor of it being developed.
Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, said that during tonight’s Village Council meeting there was a resident filming the proceedings in a legal fashion, and there was an altercation with another resident which required Police Officers to come to the meeting. He does not know if charges have been filed by the resident who was doing the filming. Mr. Loving emphasized that there should be a full investigation of this matter by the Village Council and the person causing the altercation should be banned from attending future Village Council meetings. He concluded by saying that he hopes the Village Manager will arrange for the resident doing the filming to get a police escort to his vehicle this evening, and emphasized that a police presence is required in the Court Room during Village Council meetings.
Councilwoman Hauck said that what she saw was a woman shouting that there was an assault, but Councilwoman Hauck did not see any altercation. Councilwoman Hauck said that two residents, Mr. and Mrs. Loving, made allegations during Jim Griffith’s proclamation and he showed fearful panic when Mr. Loving called out that a resident had been assaulted. Councilwoman Hauck said that there can be an investigation, but Mr. Loving could have simply asked the resident doing the filming if he was hurt.
Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, pointed out that the podium says that the public should always have the final word, which is not true, because Councilwoman Hauck continued to speak.
Ms. Loving said that concerning the parking garage, instead of saying that the garage is overhanging the sidewalk, it should be said that it is overshadowing the other buildings.
Ms. Loving said that Councilwoman Hauck did not see what happened when the resident doing the filming was in the altercation, and it was a shame that it happened during Jim Griffith’s proclamation. Ms. Loving said that she suggested calling in the Police. Councilwoman Hauck said that no one saw what happened. Ms. Loving said that she saw what happened, and Councilwoman Hauck should apologize for what she just said. Councilwoman Hauck said that the timing of what happened was terrible, and the person doing the filming did not say that he needed the Police. Councilwoman Knudsen said that she realized something was happening and she believes that people should call for help if they think there is an assault on someone. Councilwoman Knudsen said that she feels badly for Jim Griffith, and that the meeting should have been stopped and then resumed after the Police left the Court Room.
There were no further comments from the public.
Ms. Sonenfeld said that in response to the comments about HealthBarn and how it will benefit Ridgewood residents; those questions have been answered many times. She said that HealthBarn will be a great benefit to the Village. She pointed out that the Recreation Department hires many outside vendors, and HealthBarn is one of them.
Ms. Sonenfeld said that the Financial Advisory Committee has suggested that the Village outsource?????
As for the parking deck, it is staying within the footprint. There will be two rows of traffic and one row of on-street parking, next to Mt. Carmel Church. Councilman Knudsen said that there might be a couple of inches to steal on each traffic lane so that the parking deck could be completely on the Hudson Street parking lot. Ms. Sonenfeld said that there would still be a loss of parking spots in the deck.
Councilwoman Knudsen asked how much money will be spent on the oversight by the Recreation Department of HealthBarn. Ms. Sonenfeld emphasized that no staff will be added due to the addition of HealthBarn at the Irene Habernickel Family Park.
Matthew Jessup, Village Bond Counsel, stated that all fees for the parking deck are included in the analysis. He further stated that the analysis does not show that the maturity schedule has a higher debt service if the Village funds it, in the first few years. Therefore, the BCIA Lease Agreement will allow the Village to save more money today.
11. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Sedon, seconded by Councilwoman Knudsen, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 11:00 P.M.
_________________________________ Paul S. Aronsohn Mayor
_________________________________ Heather A. Mailander Village Clerk
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