Village Council Work Session Minutes 20160203

 

A REGULAR WORK SESSION 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 3, 2016 AT 7:30 P.M.

 

1. CALL TO ORDER – OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS ACT – ROLL CALL – FLAG SALUTE

Mayor Aronsohn called the meeting to order at 7:31 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 Mailander, Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney. 

Mayor Aronsohn led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag 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.

1. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

Mayor Aronsohn asked if there were any comments or questions from the public. Margene Rubin, 1021 Hillcrest Avenue, said she was shocked when she read the email from Ms. Sonenfeld concerning what is contained in the lease with HealthBarn.  She had attended the November meeting where assurance was given that there would be no buses in and out of the Habernickel property; however, the email indicates that there will be buses.  In addition, Timothy Cronin, Director of Parks and Recreation, stated that there would be no additional lighting or signage, however, this is also mentioned in the proposal. 

Ms. Rubin said that misleading information was given to the neighborhood at the meeting in November.   Many questions went unanswered, and Ms. Rubin wondered how the Village Council could vote on something where so much information is missing or unavailable.  It appears now that parking will overflow from the parking lot into the street, and class sizes are much larger than first thought.  She stated that the Village Council seems to be disinterested in this issue as a whole, which is obvious as demonstrated by the changes that have occurred since the meeting in November.  She urged the Village Council to reconsider this proposal.

Jim Griffith, 159 South Irving Street, recalled that fifteen years ago he agreed to attend a meeting of environmentalists on behalf of Jane Reilly, who was the Mayor at the time. This turned out to be one of the initial meetings of the Open Space Commission.  Five years after this meeting, Irene Habernickel indicated to the Village that she would be vacating her property, and she wanted to give the Village the opportunity to purchase this property.   She was willing to negotiate a fair price, and after five years there was sufficient money, including grant money to purchase the property.  Residents in the area were concerned about how the farm would be developed, and several meetings took place to assure them that the fields would be used for both active and passive use, and there was to be no significant change to the lifestyle in the area. Mr. Griffith said that he has worked with the Parks and Recreation Department for many years, and they would not accept a program that was not beneficial to the Village.

Mr. Griffith noted that the Village Council should be prepared to expect objections from residents who suspect significant interruptions as a result of HealthBarn’s occupation of the Gate House.

Claude Bienstock, 39-11 Broadway, Fair Lawn, said that the Village Council faces a lot of difficult decisions such as what to do with park lands and the parking garage, and he thanked them for the difficult work that they do. He stated that he feels strongly about protecting home values for every homeowner in Bergen County, and he thanked the Village Council again for their hard work and for listening to his comments. 

David Rutherford, attorney for HealthBarn U.S.A., wanted to respond to Ms. Rubin’s comment about a misunderstanding relative to buses. Mr. Rutherford indicated that his client has produced a detailed description of all of her activities, which was recently revised and distributed to Village Councilmembers and members of the Village staff.  Buses will be part of the summer camp program that would operate at Habernickel Park, and there are buses for the field trips run by HealthBarn during the school year.  This schedule will be attached to the lease for approval by the Village Council.  Each and every activity will be defined in a specific way with respect to the nature of the activity; the number of participants; how they get to and from when an activity is held; and hours, days, and seasons.  Mr. Rutherford stated that the programs offered by HealthBarn are beneficial, educational, and recreational, and the use of the Gate House by HealthBarn is what Green Acres is all about.  HealthBarn understands that it must comply with Green Acres regulations.  Green Acres has approved the use and will be required to approve the lease.  Mr. Rutherford stated that the use of the Gate House by HealthBarn is a better use than that of a single family home, with the Village as a landlord.   The use of the property for a recreational and educational purpose is in keeping with the spirit and intent of the initial acquisition of the property, as well as Green Acres regulations.  The Village Council had adopted an ordinance putting the residence out to lease, and his client’s bid was accepted by resolution in September.  They are now near the end of the 90 day comment period for the change in use of the Gate House from residential use to educational/recreational purposes, and he urged the Village Council to move forward and finalize the lease.  This will enable HealthBarn to begin operations at Habernickel Park. 

Mr. Rutherford stated that his client understands this is a shared facility, and she will work together with the Parks and Recreation Department. She is prepared to work with Village professionals and staff in a cooperative nature relative to the needs and legitimate concerns of the neighbors.  Mr. Rutherford said that once the operation is up and running, the neighbors will not notice that HealthBarn is there. 

Mayor Aronsohn said that he recalled a discussion with Ms. Rubin in early January, and they disagreed on whether or not HealthBarn should locate at Habernickel Park. At that time, Mayor Aronsohn indicated that he wasn’t sure what was happening with the lease, and he asked Ms. Rubin to contact Ms. Sonenfeld because she was working on it. Mayor Aronsohn stated that this was the issue he was not sure of at the time of this discussion, and he recalled their conversation differently from what was described by Ms. Rubin.

There were no further comments from the public.

3.            DISCUSSION

              a.            Budget

1.)           Award Contract – Horticultural Supplies

Ms. Sonenfeld stated that this is the second year of a two-year agreement with Shemin Nurseries for horticultural supplies.

2.)           Award Contract - Computers, Network Appliances and Security Hardware

Ms. Sonenfeld indicated that this pertains to the purchase of technology items approved under last year’s capital budget. The purchases include items such as four rugged Panasonic Toughbooks for use in police vehicles, security cameras, iPads for use by the Building and Health Departments, routers and additions to fire walls. 

3.)           Award Contract – Printing for Municipal Election

Ms. Sonenfeld said that this is an award to the sole proposal from Royal Printing Service for the printing for the Municipal Election. This is a 22% increase in price over previous years.

4.)           Award Contract – Emergency Purchase – Polyphosphate Pumps

Ms. Sonenfeld stated the installation of polyphosphate pumps will allow for the completion of the installation of corrosion control for 29% of the Ridgewood Water system by June 1, 2016. This means that the Village will be in compliance with the NJ Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) directive.  The money has been budgeted in the capital account in the Water Utility’s capital account.

5.)           Award Contract – Concession Service at Graydon Pool

Ms. Sonenfeld stated that this is the second year of a two-year agreement with Badland Tacos at Graydon Pool.

6.)           Budget Reserve Transfers

Ms. Sonenfeld noted the budget reserve transfers for last year. The transfers are for deficiencies and expenditures, which must be made so that the Village can meet their final obligations for the reserve years. 

7.)           Capital Budget – Paving

8.)           Temporary Capital Budget - Paving

Ms. Sonenfeld explained that again this year they would be removing paving from the budget meeting discussions because it normally takes until April to approve capital items. Paving will be separated from the capital budget, so that they can receive paving bids and begin paving early in the spring.  This would allow capital to be put aside in the amount of $1.2 million, which is a combination of $1.1 million of capital plus an additional amount of $149,000 based on a grant from New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT), which will be used to pave Morningside Avenue.  The Village did a record amount of paving last year, and decided to bid a smaller amount this year.  If there are any paving dollars left, the Village will go forward with additional paving.  

                b.            Policy

1.)           HealthBarn – Irene Habernickel Family Park     

Ms. Sonenfeld stated that Habernickel Park was purchased some time ago using approximately $3 million of Green Acres’ funding. The Gate House was leased in order to generate additional revenue for the park and to have caretakers on the property.  Green Acres agreed to this arrangement; however, ultimately the goal was to use the building for educational purposes that would be determined.  HealthBarn provides an opportunity to offer an educational and recreational program, which will provide residents with a service that could not be done by the Parks and Recreation Department alone.  The Village approached Green Acres relative to this proposal, which they approved.   The necessary public hearing was held on November 4, 2015, where concerns were raised by residents, along with questions and comments.  These items were categorized into a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs). The team who put this together consisted of Timothy Cronin, Director of Parks and Recreation; Nancy Bigos, Assistant Director of Parks and Recreation; and Janet Fricke, Assistant to the Village Manager.  The team worked with Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney, to develop a lease, which included operational requirements.  Ms. Sonenfeld said that the Village Council will vote on two items next week.  The first is to endorse the change of use to include recreational and educational purposes, and the other is to authorize the signing of the lease. Ms. Sonenfeld asked the team to discuss other aspects of this proposal in greater detail.

Mr. Cronin said that this was a significant effort, which included the team members, as well as the Legal Department, Police Department, Fire Department, Engineering Office, and the Parks, Recreation, and Conservation (PRC) Board. Mr. Cronin stated that the document generated further questions, which will be reviewed by Ms. Fricke. Ms. Sonenfeld said she sent the list of FAQs to neighbors in the vicinity of Habernickel Park a week ago, and they were also available on the website.   

Mr. Cronin stated that the Police Department did a traffic study on Hillcrest Road during the fall recreational season. Additional studies are planned for the winter and spring seasons.  The traffic study showed that the average speed falls within a safe area, and the percentage of high speed passes was minimal.  The street has a low volume of travel even though it is a well-known cut through from Monroe Street to lower Ridgewood.  The traffic study was passed to the Engineering Department for review and the following recommendations were made:  stripe two crosswalks at Norman Road and Hillcrest Road; install double yellow lines down the center of Hillcrest Road as a slowing agent; install signage to alert motorists that they are approaching a crosswalk; paint white tick marks on Hillcrest Road at private driveway entrances to denote no parking areas at private driveway areas; amend the ordinance to allow parking on the north side of Hillcrest Road, which is the park property side and not on the opposite side.  These plans were presented and approved at the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee meeting on December 17, 2015, and a resolution was passed.  The extension of sidewalks down to Andover Road, and the installation of sidewalks on the Hillcrest Road side of Morningside Road to North Monroe Street   will be discussed at future Village Council meetings.  Bus drop offs will take place Monday through Friday from 10:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.  There will be no bus activity after school, which would conflict with children’s activities that take place in the park. 

Mr. Cronin stated that when the property was purchased in 2004, a conservation easement was required on the deed. The easement stated that the rules and regulations of Green Acres must be followed, which included the requirement for a public hearing relative to the proposed changes.  The Village Recreation Department will establish a satellite office in the Gate House, which will offer support as necessary, and will be staffed as needed.    No zoning changes were necessary for this change in use, which allows for recreational and educational programming for the Gate House.  There will be no overnight accommodations or private counselling sessions held inside the Gate House.  The HealthBarn will be required to follow procedures in the lease to make any improvements to the Gate House, the cost of which will be borne by the tenant.  Community Gardens are allowed in the park with the permission of the Director of Parks and Recreation, and all maintenance and related costs will be the responsibility of HealthBarn.  A sign is allowed on the Gate House, with the location to be addressed in the lease, and installation to be approved by the Building Permit, with a permit required.  A security lighting analysis was made by the Ridgewood Police Department for the exterior of the Gate House only.  The hours of operation will be in accordance with the items listed in Schedule A, Monday through Saturday 9:00 A.M. to 5:30 P.M., and Wednesday and Friday evenings 6:30 P.M. to 9:00 P.M.   The tenant will be permitted to open and close the building a half hour before and after the commencement or termination of the program.  The Gate House facility provides space for additional educational and recreational programs for local use, which cannot be held elsewhere in the Village facilities since they have reached full capacity. Building Code Officials and Fire Inspectors have inspected the building and will make professional recommendations, when questions arise in the area of their expertise.    

Mr. Cronin went on to state that park areas to be used by the HealthBarn include the Gate House, the teaching community gardens, and potentially some fields as approved by the Director of Parks and Recreation, and reviewed by the Fields Committee. Green Acres does not deny public access to the parks that are in the Green Acres program. Student drop-off and pick-up areas are located at the entrance to the Gate House.  If parking is needed during classes, twelve on-site spaces will be provided in the parking area, and there are three staff parking spaces available in the driveway of the Gate House.  Mini buses carrying up to 14 students may drop off at the Gate House and may park in the rear parking lot for no more than two hours.  Engine idling is not permitted.  Full size buses are permitted only during the hours of 10:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. Monday through Friday, with drop-off at the Gate House.  Buses will park offsite.  Animals are not allowed unless by special request for a program or certified animal service.  HealthBarn is a vendor to the Village of Ridgewood, and as such, all programs will be regularly inspected, reviewed, and monitored by the Director of Parks and Recreation.  The tenant is expressly prohibited from operating or holding private consultation sessions at the Gate House or on the Habernickel Park property.  One upstairs room will serve as an office and the building cannot be used for living quarters.  The Gate House and all programs will be open for inspection by the landlord at any time and HealthBarn’s curriculum has been reviewed by Green Acres, and the Parks and Recreation Department to ensure that the educational and recreational standards are of a high quality for each age group.  Mr. Cronin noted that this is an enrichment educational experience providing families with nutritional guidance to facilitate better mealtime behaviors for a healthy lifestyle. 

Mr. Cronin stated that a local real estate expert conducted an analysis of the location to determine the base bid for the lease. The lease requires an annual tri-State CPI increase. The initial lease is for five years, with a renewal of one year, adhering to the Green Acres standard.  The lease document is still in attorney review, but will be available to the public when complete.  The required liability insurance is $1 million per occurrence and the total aggregate is $2 million, naming the Village of Ridgewood as an additional insured.  All employees and agents of the HealthBarn must complete a satisfactory background check.  The Gate House will provide space for registration, planning, and operational needs, and will be regularly monitored by the Parks and Recreation Department.  The lease includes language to protect the Village if the tenant does not follow lease requirements, and termination is needed.  The tenant of the Gate house is required to submit a quarterly listing and analysis of classes and programs, including attendance, staffing, and related costs to the Department of Parks and Recreation for review.  The tenant’s current listing of programs is noted on Schedule A.  Birthday parties are approved by Green Acres as a legitimate recreation experience, and if the tenant wishes to make changes to programs, it must be cleared five days in advance by the Director of Parks and Recreation. 

Mr. Cronin stated that the information contained in the terms of the lease, which he has recited generated emails and further questions that would be addressed by Ms. Fricke. Ms. Fricke stated that the rent for the Gate House is $3,700 per month or $44,400 per year.  All utility costs are additional, and insurance requirements are $2 million naming the Village as an other insured.  Ms. Fricke reviewed the length of the lease, and mentioned plans to upgrade the kitchen, which is extremely minimal at the moment. The kitchen will be equipped as a commercial kitchen.  Upgrades are also planned to the bathroom on the first floor, which will make it more compliant with ADA requirements. Final plans will be reviewed by the Village, the Building Department, and the Fire Department, with all costs to be paid by HealthBarn.  The Director of Parks and Recreation has all necessary information to evaluate any request.  The Recreation Department has extensive experience relative to drop-off and pick-up issues and sometimes will stagger the timing of programs to ensure that there are no traffic flow problems.  Drop-offs and pick-ups will not occur on Hillcrest Road.  Ms. Fricke noted that the winter traffic study by the Police Department has not yet been completed. Bill Gilsenan, a local realtor, was used to prepare the information on real estate comparisons, and the Village is only renting the main floor area of the house and a partial portion of the upstairs.  The square footage being rented is 2,050 and the square footage value of the rental is $21.66, with the average price of comps in town being $23.84 per square foot.  This property was listed on the Multiple Listing Service for a considerable amount of time with 1,043 potential customers receiving information, and only one bid being received. The Village put the Gate House out to bid on three separate occasions.  Ms. Fricke indicated that buses will not be used for the summer programs, and car pools are encouraged.  Buses will only be used during regular school hours, when school is in session.  Parking for the mini bus is available on-site, but larger buses will be located off-site at Graydon Pool or the PSE&G right of way.

Ms. Fricke said that low level lighting will be installed, which is important for safety and protection at the Gate House. Schedule A on the lease indicates the target audience levels, and birthday parties are allowed at parklands in the Village, as well as the Stable, the Community Center, and at Graydon Pool.   Events on Wednesday and Friday evenings will be held inside the Gate House only.  Village staff has been contacted by the Abma family in support of HealthBarn’s programs.  Park neighbors, including Willard parents and Scout leaders, have indicated that they appreciate the opportunity to have HealthBarn in the community because the programs offer a unique and specialized instruction not otherwise available in Ridgewood. 

Regarding the play structure, Ms. Fricke stated that the HealthBarn curriculum does not include playing at the structure, but children may ask parents if they can use playground equipment, when they are exiting the property. This will not happen on an organized basis.  The sign will be three feet by three feet and will be located to the left of the front door.  The words Gate House will hang over the front door.  Field use will not be impacted by the HealthBarn and if they are interested in using the field, a request is required to the Director of Parks and Recreation, with a review by the Fields Committee.  Ms. Fricke reiterated that the Parks and Recreation Department will maintain an office on the second floor of the Gate House to offer support and on site-control as needed.    

Councilwoman Knudsen asked about the procedure regarding birthday parties. Mr. Cronin explained that a formal application is made through the Parks and Recreation Department for the Community Center or Lester Stable location.  The application is reviewed by staff members and the Department then provides only tables and chairs for a fee.  All other planning involving entertainment is provided by the applicant. Councilwoman Knudsen asked if the HealthBarn birthday party package is structured differently from what the Village offers presently, and Mr. Cronin said that he thinks their parties emphasize a healthy lifestyle, incorporating cooking.  

Councilwoman Knudsen asked if the cost of a party at the HealthBarn is based on a per person fee. Mr. Cronin said that the Village charges a flat fee for the use of their facilities.  Stacey Antine, owner of the HealthBarn, U.S.A., came forward and explained that birthday parties at her facility are an educational experience, and the space at the Gate House would not be sublet or rented to a parent.  The parties are staffed by people who conduct HealthBarn programs.  Children go to the garden and harvest ingredients for items such as homemade pizzas, participate in the preparation of the meal, and choose a dessert. The charge for the party is a package price, not a per attendee price, and is based on the healthy lifestyle program. 

Councilwoman Knudsen asked for clarification on the numbers of children on school field trips. Ms. Antine stated that the field trips are for a visit by a school class to HealthBarn, and a typical class size from a school in Ridgewood is twenty to twenty-five children.  Councilwoman Knudsen recalled that the number sixty was mentioned at an earlier meeting.  Ms. Antine explained that this would happen if the number of students were comprised of an entire grade.  Upon further questioning, Ms. Antine said that only one class operates at a time, or during an hourly time frame.  She added that there is only one class per day, per age group.

Councilman Pucciarelli said that this is a cooperative effort, where the landlord has a lot of activity and involvement with the tenant. He said that there are several items he would like to have included in the lease.  He recommended that the lease clearly reflect that this is not an exclusive lease, and there will be Parks and Recreation staff with keys to the building at all times in order to carry out the supervisory role that is noted in the lease. The space allocation, with an exhibit, should be included in the lease.  Councilman Pucciarelli recommended that if Ms. Antine is no longer in the same role at HealthBarn, the Village would have a right to make a judgment as to whether the operation has changed, and could terminate the lease if they feel a default has occurred.  Ms. Antine stated that this has been included in the lease.  

Regarding improvements to the Gate House building, Councilman Pucciarelli questioned the implications concerning the $60,000 of improvements. Mr. Rutherford said that Ms. Antine has filed plans with the Building Department and when the lease is signed, these improvements will begin. It is his understanding that the five-year term of the lease is conditioned upon the capital improvement within a specified period of time.  Mr. Rogers confirmed this, and Councilman Pucciarelli added that the six-year lease takes effect when this obligation is fulfilled.  Mr. Rutherford added that a condition of Green Acres approval is to have a five-year lease, and an additional year lease is possible if more money is put into the building.  Ms. Antine noted that they cannot occupy the house without a Certificate of Occupancy.  

Councilwoman Hauck observed that public interaction, cooperation of Village staff, and the patience of everyone involved is a blessing to the Village. She thanked everyone for their perseverance, and said that the HealthBarn program compliments everything that the Ridgewood Recreation program provides, with an additional level of knowledge and experience.   She feels that all of the concerns noted at previous meetings have been addressed, and the Village Council must decide what is best for the Village as a whole. This program, at this location, will fill the building and the park, and will enhance the responsiveness of the Parks and Recreation Department because the area will be monitored more effectively.  Councilwoman Hauck said that the notion of a public/private enterprise is not new, and is becoming more common since the Parks and Recreation Department is financially strapped.  She praised the program, which is a benefit to all the residents and taxpayers of Ridgewood.  

Councilman Sedon asked if the sports groups have been notified relative to the new use of the Gate House and whether there would be any conflicts with games or practices. Mr. Cronin stated that the Field Committee is aware of the possibility that HealthBarn will be occupying the Gate House and that it will not conflict with their activities.  This is a non-issue for the sports groups since they are not housed, or involved with, the Gate House.  If one of the groups wanted to use the Gate House for a one-day special event, they would have to come to the Parks and Recreation Department, who would review the request.  Councilman Sedon was concerned about the duration of the lease, and asked about amending the lease if the activity at the Gate House was more intense than originally anticipated.   Mr. Cronin said that the five-year/six-year time period for the lease is part of a Green Acres stipulation.  Mr. Rogers explained that there is a provision in the lease giving each side a 120-day written notice termination.  He indicated that there would be quarterly reviews, and there is a Parks and Recreation office in the building, which adds another level of oversight.  Councilman Sedon asked how the termination of the lease would impact the $60,000 of improvements to be completed by HealthBarn.   Mr. Rogers said that this will have to be determined, included in the contract, and reviewed by the Village Council.  Councilman Sedon stated that he supports the proposal; however, he is sensitive to the concerns of the neighbors, and wants to make sure that every scenario is covered to avoid legal entanglement.   Mr. Cronin said that Ms. Antine is very professional, and intends to be a good neighbor, and any problems that arise will be dealt with quickly and thoroughly. 

Councilwoman Knudsen referred to the Summer Camps, which include a Summer Seedlings program. She said that these programs appear to overlap, and Ms. Antine explained that the programs do not always run at capacity. Councilwoman Knudsen said that during this overlap period there is the potential to have 50 students present at one time.  Ms. Antine said that she has agreed with the Village to run the programming the same way it was run at Abma’s Farm, meaning that she will continue with what is familiar to her.

Mayor Aronsohn said that he is happy that residents have brought up concerns with parking, traffic, and maintenance of Habernickel Park, which need to be addressed whether or not HealthBarn occupies the Gate House. He is excited about the possibility of a partnership with HealthBarn because it is aligned with the core mission of the Parks and Recreation Department, which is health and wellness.  He is optimistic about the program, and realizes the importance of getting this right.  

Ms. Sonenfeld thanked the residents for their input which made for a stronger contract. Mr. Rutherford stated that he also has a much better understanding of the concerns of the Village Council and Village residents.  He is confident that all the issues can be addressed so that everyone involved feels comfortable.   

                c.             Operations

1.)           Authorize Shared Services Agreement – Child Health Conference

Ms. Sonenfeld stated that this is a Shared Services Agreement for the Child Health Clinic between Glen Rock and Ridgewood. Ridgewood must reimburse Glen Rock for one half of the invoice.  She noted that there is a $3,800 maximum fee, split two ways between Glen Rock and Ridgewood. 

4.            REVIEW OF FEBRUARY 10, 2016 REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING AGENDA

Ms. Mailander stated that the meeting will include Proclamations Honoring James Griffith; Dad’s Night for Hawes School and Somerville Schools; Read Across America Day; and Super Science Saturday.

Ordinances for introduction include a Bond Ordinance for Paving. No public hearings are scheduled.  There is a final vote on the Leasing Agreement with the Bergen County Improvement Authority, and continued Public Hearings on the five ordinances for multi-family housing in the Central Business District (CBD).

Resolutions include: Award Professional Services Contract for 2016 Land Surveying Services for the Tax Assessment Map; Award Professional Services for Employee Assistance Program; Title 59 Approval and Award of Contract for 2016 Concession and Refreshment Services at Graydon Pool; Title 59 Approval and Award of Contract for Rehabilitation of the Aqueduct Water Storage Tanks; Title 59 Approval and Award of Contract for Coach Bus Transportation Services; Title 59 Approval and Award of Contract for Servicing and Repair of Potable Water Department Facilities; Title 59 Approval and Award of Contract for Horticultural Supplies; Award Contract Under State Contract for Computers, Network Appliances, and Security Hardware; Award of Contract Under State Contract for Portable Radios for the Police Department; Award of Contract Under State Contract for Installation, Service, and Repair for Police Cars, Equipment and Radios; Award Contract for Printing for the Municipal Election; Authorize Membership in the National Cooperative Purchasing Alliance; Award Contract for the Upgrade of Village Hall Security System; Award Extraordinary Unspecifiable Services Contract for Sanitary Sewer Repair; Approve Shared Services Agreement for the Child Health Clinic with Glen Rock; Approve Budget Reserve Transfers; Award Emergency Contract for Polyphosphate Pumps; Authorize Temporary Capital Budgets for Paving; Approve Revisions to the Field Policy; Authorize Budget Reserve Transfers;  Approve Change in Use for 1057 Hillcrest Road – The Gate House; Authorize the Execution of the Lease at the Gate House between the Village and HealthBarn, U.S.A.

Mayor Aronsohn referred to the five ordinances for multi-family housing, and said that because the impact studies are anticipated at the end of the month, these ordinances will most likely be continued to March, 2016.

5.            MANAGER’S REPORT

Ms. Sonenfeld reported on the weekly meeting with the Parking Steering/Design Committee. Option Two, which was presented on October 2, 2015, was approved by the Village Council last week for a parking garage containing 325 parking spaces.  Site plans were received depicting the garage footprint, driveway connections for the project, and maintenance of access and circulation to the adjoining parcels. The plans are available for view on the Village website.  The floor plans depicting the parking layouts, car counts, ADA spaces, parking geometry, ramping, bike parking, information on floor heights, and structural elements are also available on the Village website.  Information is available relative to financing costs and BCIA financing options.  The cost of the project using the BCIA has changed since last week and is now $23,000 more because BCIA had omitted the fees for the County attorney.  Ms. Sonenfeld stated that a BCIA work session is scheduled for tomorrow, and the Ridgewood parking deck is listed on the agenda. 

Ms. Sonenfeld referred to the Ken Smith parking agreement, for the Central Business District Employee parking, which has expired. Parking on this lot will be run through the owner of the lot, beginning on March 1, 2016.  The Village has spoken to the owners of the Ken Smith lot, who said they will maintain the same price for the parking at this lot for the next six months. 

Ms. Sonenfeld reported on the first of two Leaf Forums which took place with several residents last night. Residents spoke of their experiences and recommendations.  The next Leaf Forum is scheduled for Friday, and Ms. Sonenfeld will report on the results of these forums at the next Village Council meeting.

Ms. Sonenfeld announced that for the first time in several years, the Ridge Crest waiting list will be open on February 29^th.  The apartments are located at 7-11 Ridge Road, and the applications can be downloaded from the Village website.  She noted that only three hundred applications will be accepted and the housing is open to those over 62 or disabled, with income restrictions of $32,450 per person, or $37,100 per couple.

Ms. Sonenfeld stated that the first budget meeting was held several weeks ago, at which time budgets relative to the Building Department, Water Department, Police, Emergency Services, and Tax Assessor were discussed. The next meeting meetings are scheduled on February 16^th from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M.; February 17^th from 5:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M.; February 18^th from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M.; and February 19^th from 5:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. 

Ms. Sonenfeld noted that Jamboree takes place on February 3^rd, 4^th, 5^th, and 6^th, at Benjamin Franklin Middle School.  Meet the Manager is scheduled for February 20^th, from 9:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M.  

6.            COUNCIL REPORTS

Jamboree - Councilwoman Knudsen noted that Jamboree raises money for need-based scholarship programs and benefits Ridgewood High School seniors.  Commander Bob Paoli, of the Ridgewood American Legion Post #53, is a special guest this year and has a prominent role in “Ridgewood Rewind – 70 Years of Jamboree”.

Planning Board - Councilwoman Knudsen reported that the Planning Board adopted the Master Plan Re-Examination Report last evening, with several modifications.  She thanked the Village Planner, Blais Brancheau, for all of the work he has done on this, as well as Planning Board members for the amount of material that had to be read and scrutinized. 

Councilwoman Knudsen congratulated the Ridgewood Arts Council for the wonderful Grand Opening event on Saturday. She said that the music and artwork was beautiful, and commended Councilman Pucciarelli, as well as the committee, for their work in coordinating the program.

Changing the subject, Councilwoman Knudsen referred to the previous week’s Village Council Meeting, and the upset that had occurred as a result of videotaping, which occurred at a meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC). Councilwoman Knudsen stated that nothing secret or underhanded took place during a recent HPC meeting.  She said that what transpired was unfortunate; however, everyone acted appropriately from her perspective as Council liaison.  She stated that Ridgewood is fortunate to have residents who actively participate in public meetings. 

Ridgewood Arts Council (RAC) – Councilman Pucciarelli reported on the coming out party for the Ridgewood Arts Council last Saturday.  He said that Village Hall resembled a museum opening with music, art of all kinds, and wonderful food donated by Village restaurants.  The turn-out was spectacular, and the artists who donated the art work were also present.  A book containing the artwork was available for sale at the event.  Councilman Pucciarelli congratulated Linda Bradley and all of the members of the Ridgewood Arts Council for this outstanding event, which brought the Ridgewood Arts Council into maturity. 

Councilman Pucciarelli referred to the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) meeting, and said that his recent commentary did not refer to that meeting, or what any individual may have done. He did say that he thought that if a meeting is not otherwise recorded, no one should record the meeting without telling attendees that they are being recorded either by audio and/or video.  There are laws restricting recordings at public meetings to the extent that this action could be disruptive or otherwise interfere with the operation of the meeting.  These meetings are open to the public; however, it would be disruptive if someone were to be found secretly recording the meeting.  Councilman Pucciarelli stated that these are volunteer committees made up of residents and friends, and he has drafted an ordinance with the help of Mr. Rogers for review and consideration by Councilmembers at the next Village Council Work Session on February 24^th, or the first meeting in March.    He reiterated that if the meeting is not otherwise being recorded and an individual wants to record the meeting, he or she must make everyone aware that they are being recorded. 

Financial Advisory Committee – Councilwoman Hauck reported that she and the Financial Advisory Committee toured Village facilities led by Richard Calbi, Director of Operations and the Ridgewood Water Utility.  It was a comprehensive tour of every department, and she thanked Mr. Calbi for allowing the Committee the opportunity to interact with the departments, which will help them to advise the Village relative to investment in all Village departments. 

Community Center Advisory Board – Councilwoman Hauck stated that the Community Center Advisory Board is having a “Battle of the Ages” on Friday.  This is a multi-generational cookie contest that will be followed by a cookie eating contest to be judged by Carlos Bakery. 

Green Team – Councilman Sedon stated that the Green Team will meet in the Garden Room on Monday.

REAC – Councilman Sedon stated that REAC will meet on Tuesday at 6:00 P.M. in the Garden Room.

Shade Tree Commission – Councilman Sedon said that the Shade Tree Commission will also meet on Tuesday at 7:30 P.M. in the Garden Room.

Ridgewood Arts Council – Mayor Aronsohn congratulated everyone involved in the Ridgewood Arts Council event.  He said that the building came alive during this extraordinary event. 

Poverty Discussion - Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Unitarian Society is having a discussion on Friday evening at 6:30 P.M. on how poverty affects families.   The discussion will be moderated by Bob Jones of Ridgewood.

7.            COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

Mayor Aronsohn stated they would again have comments from the public and asked anyone wishing to address the Village Council to come forward.

Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, thanked Councilmembers Knudsen and Sedon for responding to her email regarding the verbal slaughter that took place at last week’s Village Council meeting. She commented on the tone of this week’s meeting, which is quite different from the tone at last week’s meeting.  Ms. Loving indicated that an individual, who was not at the meeting, was criticized and called various names. Although his name was not stated, his identity was very clear based on the discussion.  She wrote the email in the hopes that some corrective measure would be taken, not about taping or videotaping a meeting, but about the way people are spoken about.  

Councilwoman Knudsen said that she found the actions at the last meeting upsetting and troubling, as well as unnecessary and unfortunate. Councilman Pucciarelli was not at the HPC meeting, and if she had been asked, as Village Council liaison, she would have offered him her perspective.  Councilman Pucciarelli said that he has no regrets about introducing this ordinance, and stands by everything he said at the last meeting. 

Ms. Loving referred to the disruptive behavior at the last meeting, and noted that Councilwoman Knudsen was interrupted by Mayor Aronsohn and Councilman Pucciarelli on so many occasions that she could hardly speak.

Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, referred to the revised design of the parking garage or Option Two, and asked for clarification of the projected cost. Mr. Loving said that three different numbers are circulating and he wanted to know the specific cost. 

Margene Rubin, 1021 Hillcrest Road, said that she had conversations relative to the Gate House with Mayor Aronsohn earlier in the year. She commented that he seemed to lack some necessary information for someone who had already voted yes on this proposal. Ms. Rubin said she faces the Gate House, and she is concerned about the sign, because the shrubs on her property aren’t adequate to hide the sign.  She added that in November it was stated that there would be no sign, and she asked if a sandwich board sign could be put out only during business hours at the HealthBarn.  Ms. Rubin encouraged the Village Council to work with the neighborhood, and she added that the fence still has not been repaired since June 2015.  

No one else from the public came forward and Mayor Aronsohn closed the public comment portion of the meeting.

Councilwoman Knudsen said that the Village Council learned of maintenance problems with the fence in November, and she asked if there is something that prohibits the fence from being repaired. Mr. Cronin said that Fox Fence has been contacted and they will be repairing the fence; however, they need to use cement footings for some of the repair work, which is dependent on warmer weather.  Councilman Pucciarelli suggested that Mr. Cronin designate a point person on HealthBarn who can address neighbor’s comments and questions exclusively.  Mr. Cronin indicated he would submit the name of a designated staff member to the Village Manager.

Ms. Sonenfeld said that she recently visited the Gate House and didn’t think the sign would be obtrusive, but she would be happy to look at this again. Mayor Aronsohn commented that anyone who has had prior affiliation with HealthBarn, and has contacted the Village, has only praise for this program and their business model. 

8.            RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION

Ms. Mailander read Resolution #16-33 to go into Closed Session as follows:

9.            ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Sedon, seconded by Councilwoman Hauck, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 9:25 P.M.

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                                                                                                                   Paul S. Aronsohn                                                                                                                                                                                          Mayor

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                Heather A. Mailander                                                                                                                                                                           Village Clerk