20160810 - Village Council Public Meeting
A REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY ON WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016.
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CALL TO ORDER – OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS ACT – ROLL CALL – FLAG SALUTE – MOMENT OF SILENCE
Mayor Knudsen 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 Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh and Mayor Knudsen. Also present were Roberta Sonenfeld, Village Manager; Heather Mailander, Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney.
Mayor Knudsen led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.
2. ACCEPTANCE OF FINANCIAL REPORTS
Mayor Knudsen moved that the Bills, Claims, and Vouchers, and Statement of Funds on hand as of July 31, 2016, be accepted as submitted. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.
During roll call, Councilman Sedon said that he objected to the bill for the parking garage video, which video appeared on the Village website. He pointed out that neither he nor Mayor Knudsen were aware of it and he doesn’t agree with it. This is a possible ethics violation, however, because he doesn’t want to postpone the payment of other bills he would vote in the affirmative. He noted again that he would not support this propaganda video that appeared on the website. Councilman Voigt echoed Councilman Sedon’s opinion. Mayor Knudsen said she would vote yes, but she said she also objects to the invoice from Studio 94. She did not know that the video was being produced, therefore, she objects to the improper expense of taxpayer dollars.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: Walsh
3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Council minutes of July l, and July 20, 2016, having been reviewed by the Village Council and now available in the Village Clerk’s Office be approved as submitted. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
4. PROCLAMATIONS
A. DRIVE SOBER OR GET PULLED OVER 2016 STATEWIDE CRACKDOWN
Councilman Sedon read the following proclamation:
B. DECLARE SEPTEMBER OVARIAN CANCER AWARENESS MONTH
Councilman Hache read the following proclamation:
C. DECLARE SEPTEMBER NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH
Councilwoman Walsh read the following proclamation:
4. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Jim Griffith, 159 South Irving Street, recalled his statement at the previous meeting, when he said that Mayor Knudsen should not comment on whether or not the size of the parking garage was suitable for the property because she is not an architect or engineer. Mayor Knudsen responded stating that she read in the Walker report that the size was not appropriate. Mr. Griffith noted that Mayor Knudsen has been a Councilmember for several years and heard presentations given by four qualified construction companies to construct a parking garage on Hudson Street. The Village Council selected the company that was most familiar with Ridgewood to handle the construction and they are the ones who suggested the oversized structure. Mr. Griffith stated that Mayor Knudsen was at these meetings and saw the plans, which is why it is difficult for him to understand why she thinks that the garage will not work, because the property is too narrow.
Mayor Knudsen said that this information was included in the initial Walker report of 2015. The Walker study indicates that the lot is too narrow for an efficient self-parking garage. She added that she would be interested in seeing a garage that would actually fit on the lot. Mr. Griffith asked if Mayor Knudsen would be willing to accept something that is not 100% perfect, and she said she would.
Rurik Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, noted that Agenda Item #17 indicates a Closed Session discussion of the Village Manager’s Office. He asked for information about this item. Mr. Rogers said that this is a Closed Session item and cannot be discussed. Mr. Halaby stated that it appears to him that there is a group that is trying to have Ms. Sonenfeld dismissed and they need to speak to her supporters as well as her detractors.
Mr. Halaby said he is concerned about how cavalier Village Councilmembers seem to be relative to legal fees. Councilman Voigt seems to be forming a Benghazi style investigation committee and Mr. Halaby asked for information on exactly how much money has been spent on legal fees and what has been budgeted for this year. The legal costs relative to the Valley Hospital litigation, combined with a committee of concerned citizens and now the Voigt committee, will add up to an extraordinary amount in legal fees.
Mayor Knudsen said that this information is readily available by means of an OPRA request. Ms. Sonenfeld said that while she does not have the amount that has been spent in legal fees this year at her fingertips, she has information noting that the Village could go over budget and there is a risk going forward. During the budget process, the Village Council made a decision to budget basically flat to last year, because the Village didn’t want to assume a huge legal budget, which could cause a taxpayer issue. If this number were reached, the approach was to go for an emergency appropriation into the 2017 budget or to bond for funding.
Mary McBride, 875 Harristown Road, Glen Rock, said that she was here to discuss the AR-1 Ordinance that is under consideration in Glen Rock. This ordinance would allow for high density housing to be constructed in the Prospect Street neighborhood between Rock Road and Harristown Road. In order to go forward, the developer must purchase a small parcel of land from Ridgewood. Ms. McBride has lived in this neighborhood for a number of years and said that this is a strong, family neighborhood consisting of single family homes. The introduction of high density housing would drastically change the character of the neighborhood which includes many young families who assumed they had bought homes in an area zoned for single family dwellings.
Ms. McBride listed other concerns such as traffic and safety in this area, which is already quite congested. There is also the environmental impact including flooding and other concerns. Other residents in Glen Rock are concerned about what other doors will be opened for high density development in the town. Ms. McBride encouraged the Village Council to think about these points and the impact of this development when considering the purchase of this piece of Village property by this investor.
Mike Miller, 27 Pamrapo Court, Glen Rock, stated that he has lived in the town for 23 years. He pleaded with the Village Council not to sell this parcel of land on Prospect Street. He said that he doesn’t live in the vicinity of the proposed development; however, there is a large group of concerned residents who feel that it is important to fight for the neighborhood and for the good of the town. The Mayor and Council of Glen Rock have been asked to vote no on this development and he understands that the Village of Ridgewood has been approached by this investor. The developer is proposing 52 apartments on two acres of land, which can only be done if he can purchase this parcel of land from Ridgewood.
Mr. Miller said that he knows that the Village Council is familiar with the high density housing issue because they are debating similar housing developments in several locations in Ridgewood. High density housing can have negative effects on a town, including urbanization and removal of the small town community feel. His father, the former Mayor of Morristown in Burlington County, fought off development by the Toll Brothers for a long time, but the development was eventually allowed, which only opened the flood gates for other developments. Mr. Miller urged the Village to say no to the investor when they are asked to sell him this sliver of land and to continue to be the good neighbor that Ridgewood has been for years. He said he hoped they would think of all the residents of Glen Rock and he thanked the Village Council for their consideration.
Siobhan Winograd, 274 Ivy Place, said she would like to offer some ideas on the Public Comment portion of the Village Council meetings, which have gotten out of hand from time to time over the past year. She suggested that the time for individual comment be shortened. She did some research and found that Ridgewood allows for the longest block of time per person of area municipalities and there are also two opportunities for public comment. She suggested that any children wanting to speak should go first because the meetings sometimes become inflammatory. She pointed out that many Village staff members are forced to stay at these meetings for long periods of time, which is not good for anyone.
Ms. Winograd stated that at the last meeting, Mr. Dani suggested putting a “Frequently Asked Questions” or some type of “Q and A” platform on the website. She suggested that the public be encouraged to comment via email because so many people are interested in what is going on but can’t attend these meetings. Ms. Winograd said that she would be willing to work on this project because she feels strongly that the Public Comment portion of the meeting could be improved.
Ms. Winograd stated that she does not support Councilman Voigt’s idea of an investigation committee. This is a slippery slope that could be extremely expensive and there are processes already in place to deal with illegal acts that should be looked at initially, in order to save tax dollars. Ms. Winograd referred to the budget meetings where litigation was discussed and said that if money is spent on legal issues it will not be spent elsewhere. People are constantly clamoring for a Master Plan, which would be a better use of taxpayer money.
In conclusion, Ms. Winograd commended Ms. Sonenfeld for the great job she has done as Village Manager. She was extremely sad at the last meeting when people said Ms. Sonenfeld should be dismissed. She added that everything Ms. Sonenfeld has done has been made better, which doesn’t mean it’s perfect or ideal. This betterment approach has been translated to all Village employees and they admire her for that.
Mayor Knudsen said that she recently looked into the possibility of shortening time for comment to three minutes and to extend the total time for public comment, on the first part of the agenda, to 40 minutes. She said that a visual timer would show the people commenting precisely how much time they have. She told Ms. Winograd that these are great ideas and she hopes they can be implemented.
Councilman Voigt said that opening a question and answer section of the Village website would be extremely useful and may have an impact on the number of residents speaking at Village Council Meetings.
Walter Tuers, 17 Richmond Avenue, said he is opposed to any apartment development, which will alter the character of Ridgewood. He likes the fact that the Village hasn’t changed over the last 50 years that he has lived here. Mr. Tuers said he lives on the west side of Ridgewood and on Saturdays it was so difficult to get to the other side of town to his community garden plot near The Lester Stable, that he had to give it up. This year, he heard that community garden plots would be available at Habernickel Park. He has a very successful plot there now and said it is very convenient for him. Mr. Tuers thanked the Village Council and everyone else for making this possible. He added that Habernickel Park is a beautiful and well-kept spot with convenient parking. He enjoys seeing and interacting with the children there also.
Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, thanked the Village Council for their prompt approval of the minutes, which is useful for people who want to review the minutes in a timely manner. Regarding the discussion on the Bills, Claims and Vouchers, Ms. Loving agreed that the videographer needs to be paid, however, she was curious as to who approved this payment. It has been noted on social medial that former Councilwoman Hauck was the contact person. Ms. Loving suggested that the Village consult with the Village Attorney to find out if former Mayor Aronsohn or the Village Manager should be responsible for the cost of this video because there are legal and ethical issues involved. The taxpayers should not be responsible to pay this bill.
Marcia Ringel, 250 Ferris Place, said that everyone would appreciate it if the Village Council would investigate the acoustics in this room. She stated that she will have to watch this video at home to be able to understand what most of the people were saying. When she attended a high density housing meeting at the high school, which took place in a room that is much larger than the one they are in now, she had no trouble hearing every word that everyone said. She understands that acoustics can sometimes be difficult, but there are people available who know what they’re doing. She added that it is also difficult to hear clearly and you lose a lot when you can’t see the speaker. Ms. Ringel recalled that four years ago, she had suggested that the lectern be moved to the side although former Village Councilmember Pucciarelli took credit for this recommendation. This relocation worked well, because the speaker was speaking to the dais as well as the audience. Ms. Ringel said she wasn’t sure if the acoustics were poor as a result of sound bouncing off the ceiling or because of the carpeting; however, some investigation is needed. It would be a great improvement if everything that is said in this room could easily be heard.
Ms. Ringel pointed to the paintings on both sides of the dais and stated that these are the two ugliest landscapes ever put in any public building. She asked if the Arts Council could initiate some type of rotation of this art because it is depressing. She asked again if the lectern could be moved, because it is also interference to the eye line and she added that better microphones should be considered.
5. MANAGER’S REPORT
Regarding the Schedler grant, Ms. Sonenfeld reported that she provided information for Village Councilmembers in a separate packet in connection with the October and November 2015 meetings. The information includes the updated grant application and the provision of information related to the Bergen County response, indicating that they did not have jurisdiction over the municipality.
Ms. Sonenfeld stated that the detours on Glen Avenue are on-going, with work beginning on East Glen Avenue. They are working with the Police Department to try to get as much information as possible out to the public, relative to the detours. She hopes to present information as to what is scheduled in the coming months at the next meeting. Ms. Sonenfeld anticipates that the work will be lessened; however, work will continue on Glen Avenue as PSE&G concentrates on piping.
Councilman Voigt questioned the timing for the repaving of Glen Avenue. Christopher Rutishauser, Village Engineer, said he doesn’t know; however, he has just learned that PSE&G has received permits from New Jersey Transit for work under the trestle. He sent an email to his contacts at PSE&G, but doesn’t have a reply yet. It appears that the delays will continue longer than anyone had expected. Ms. Sonenfeld stated that she and Mr. Rutishauser have requested a meeting with a PSE&G representative to review all of the items, and she invited a Village Councilmember to attend.
Ms. Sonenfeld reported that Graydon Pool was inspected by the New Jersey Department of Health and was found to be in compliance with regulations. The inspection confirmed that it is a bathing beach. Ms. Sonenfeld announced that Valley Hospital has completed their paving project and has removed the temporary signs.
Ms. Sonenfeld said that Janet Fricke has begun work on the 2017 calendar. The theme of the calendar is “Ridgewood Delivers”, which highlights Village services. There will be descriptions of the various Village Departments and the services they provide such as the Signal Department, the Health Department, the Engineering Department and the Finance Department. Ms. Fricke is working to secure sponsors for the calendar and Ms. Sonenfeld asked for residents to volunteer to help with work on the calendar. Anyone interested can email her office.
Ms. Sonenfeld explained that the Village annually pursues Community Development Block Grants, which are federal grants available to support projects that provide accessibility. In the past, the Village has used these grants to fund curb cuts, ramps, automated door openers and the elevator in Village Hall. This fund does not require matching funds; however, Ms. Sonenfeld noted that the funding available seems to decrease every year. Mr. Rutishauser and Ms. Fricke have been developing some creative ideas and Ms. Fricke will be at the Access Ridgewood meeting on August 18th looking for suggestions.
Ms. Sonenfeld stated that the lights have been turned on in the parking area at Habernickel Park. These lights are not associated with HealthBarn, but with the 2010 plan for the park and are meant for security and safety reasons. She said that the intensity of light has been decreased and the light on the back of the stable has been eliminated. A discussion on Habernickel Park is scheduled for the first work session in September, which will include residents and representatives of HealthBarn.
Councilman Voigt questioned security at HealthBarn and Ms. Sonenfeld said there had been reports of people entering the park late at night and the fact that broken bottles have been found. In July and August, when children are out of school, they tend to navigate towards darker areas and the lights are a deterrent that help to present a clearer picture on security cameras. Once the security camera is hooked into the police desk, they will have a better idea of exactly what is going on and the police will be able to better address the situation.
Ms. Sonenfeld reminded everyone that “Meet the Manager” will be on Monday, August 15th from 5:30 P.M. to 7:30 P.M. in her office at Village Hall. She pointed out a Wall Street Journal article about new bail rules in New Jersey. The article states that the sweeping overhaul of the bail process in New Jersey aimed at unclogging County jails and courts is spreading fiscal angst across the State. Many County Executives indicate that they are struggling to comply. This is an unfunded mandate, which may require cutting services or raising taxes. The Wall Street Journal estimates that the Counties would spend about $45 million next year as a result of this bail reform. Ms. Sonenfeld said that this procedure was discussed during the budget process and she and Police Chief Luthcke will be attending a County Session on September 22nd on this new law and its implementation. Ms. Sonenfeld will have some commentary to present after this informational session.
Upcoming Events – Ms. Sonenfeld stated that the Ridgewood Guild will provide art and live music at their Art in the Park event on Friday between 6:30 P.M. to 9:30 P.M., on the sidewalk in front of Memorial Park at Van Neste Square. Art work is for sale and 20% of the proceeds will benefit the Ridgewood Guild. She reminded everyone of the Farmers Market, which takes place every Sunday from 9 A.M. to 3 P.M. at the train station. The movie Despicable Me will be shown tonight.
Ms. Sonenfeld stated that the Village submitted a Declaration of Intent to apply for a matching grant in the amount of $59,200, for a revitalization of Memorial Park at Van Neste Square. The public hearing on this grant will be held on September 14th and the fully completed grant application is due on October 13th. The grant application will be available during that time period for review by the Village Council and the public at the public meeting. Ms. Sonenfeld said there would be more details available closer to the date of the public meeting. The work would include removal of brick pavers to be replaced with a decorative concrete sidewalk; installation of underground electric to existing fixtures; replacement of existing spotlights with LED lights; installation of black aluminum fencing; acid washing of the war memorial; installation of some barriers; and the consideration of interactive musical artwork. This is a scalable grant for the County, which means that if they are not successful in getting the full amount of the grant, money for some of these projects can be scaled down.
6. VILLAGE COUNCIL REPORTS
Councilman Sedon reported that he met with Dr. Dan Fishbein, Ridgewood Superintendent of Schools and Timothy Cronin, Director of Parks and Recreation, to discuss shade trees. He is hoping to partner with the schools to offer an educational component, as well as shared services for the purchase of trees. Councilman Sedon will report on this meeting to the Shade Tree Commission and Dr. Fishbein indicated that he would speak with principals of the schools to gauge their interest.
Central Business District Advisory Committee – Councilman Hache stated that applications for membership in the Central Business District Advisory Committee were due on August 5th. He was pleased with the number of applications and applicants will be notified of interview times.
Historic Preservation Commission – Mayor Knudsen stated that the meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission for tomorrow evening has been cancelled, because there are no applications on the agenda.
Planning Board -Mayor Knudsen reported that the Planning Board will be meeting Tuesday, August 16th at 7:30 P.M. She noted that the first site plan application on multi-family, high density housing has been postponed until September 5th.
Access Ridgewood – Mayor Knudsen stated that Access Ridgewood will meet on Thursday, August 18th in the Community Center.
7. ORDINANCES – RIDGEWOOD WATER
There were no ordinances for introduction or second reading for Ridgewood Water this evening.
8. RESOLUTIONS – RIDGEWOOD WATER
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 16-233 THROUGH 16-239 WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA, WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:
9. ORDINANCES
a. Introduction - #3542– Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Violations and Penalties – Increase Parking Ticket Fines
Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of Ordinance 3542. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3542 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-47, “VIOLATIONS AND PENALITIES”
Councilman Sedon moved that ordinance 3542 be adopted on first reading and that September 14, 2016, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
b. Introduction - #3543 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Overnight Parking Restrictions
Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of Ordinance 3543. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3543 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265, THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-18 “REGULATIONS NOT EXCLUSIVE”
Councilman Hache moved that Ordinance 3543 be adopted on first reading and that September 14, 2016 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
c. Introduction - #3544 – Amend Valet Parking Ordinance
Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of Ordinance 3544. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3544 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-29, “PARKING METER ZONES DESIGNATED” AND AT SECTION 265-69 SCHEDULE XIX” TIME LIMIT PARKING” AND AT SECTION 265-72, SCHEDULE XXII “LOADING ZONES”
Councilman Sedon moved that Ordinance 3544 be adopted on first reading and that September 14, 2016 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
d. Introduction - #3545– Amend Chapter 249 - Streets and Sidewalks – Increase Fines for Paving Moratorium Violations
Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of Ordinance 3545. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3545 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 249 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, STREETS AND SIDEWALKS, AT SECTION 249-44, “GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS”
Councilwoman Walsh moved that Ordinance 3545 be adopted on first reading and that September 14, 2016 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
e. Introduction - #3546 – Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Sewers and Sewage Disposal Fees – Increase Annual Service Charge for Out of Village Dischargers
Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of Ordinance 3546. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3546 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 145 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, FEES, AT SECTION 145-6, “ENUMERATIN OF FEES RELATIING TO CODE CHAPTERS”
Councilwoman Walsh moved that Ordinance 3546 be adopted on first reading and that September 14, 2016 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
f. Introduction - #3547 – Regulate/Ban the Sale of “Dog and Cat Mill” Animals in Pet Shops
Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of Ordinance 3547. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3547 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 105 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, ENTITLED “ANIMALS” TO CREATE A NEW SECTION TO REGULATE/BAN THE SALE OF DOG AND CAT MILL ANIMALS IN PET SHOPS
Councilman Hache moved that Ordinance 3547 be adopted on first reading and that September 14, 2016 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
g. Public Hearing - #3540 – Amend Chapter 190 - Land Use and Development – Regulations for Political Signs and Temporary Signs
Mayor Knudsen moved the second reading of Ordinance 3540 by title on second reading and that the public hearing be opened. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3540 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 190, SECTION 122 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD ENTITLED “SIGNS”
Mayor Knudsen stated that the Planning Board has not yet been able to review Ordinance 3540, so the Public Hearing will be continued to the September 7, 2016 Public Meeting. The Public Hearing on this ordinance will be held this evening, due to the fact that it was previously advertised as being held tonight. The Public Hearing was opened.
Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, noted that the amount of time a sign can remain up post-election has been doubled. He asked why the amount of time has been increased from ten days to twenty days. Mr. Rogers explained that this was due to a new Supreme Court case that dealt with restrictions as to time limitations regarding political signs. They wanted the time period extended because they felt seven to ten days was too restrictive and this is the reason for the change in this ordinance.
Mr. Loving commented that this is a backwards change and he again questioned the need to double the amount of time. He suggested verifying this to see if this time period actually needs to be extended. He said that having large billboard-like signs in the CBD for twenty days after the election seems to serve no purpose at all. Mr. Rogers said that this is a restriction that has no basis in what the Court perceived as reasonable law or as a health and safety issues.
Mr. Loving stated that he wants to move forward and not backward. There are election signs that have been up since June and now they could be up as long as the beginning of December. Mr. Rogers stated that the sign ordinance, which applies to political signs as well as other signs, is in need of a major overhaul. The goal here was to get something done quickly and the purpose of this ordinance was to prohibit temporary signs on public property for this election, in light of what happened last spring and fall.
Mr. Loving said that while he appreciates these actions, he still believes that Ridgewood is taking a step backwards because of the amount of time that these signs are allowed to remain up. He said that case law should be forwarded to the Village Council to help them decide whether this is something that would be nice to do or is it something that must be done.
Marcia Ringel, 250 Ferris Place, said that the number of days a sign can be left up after the election should be one. She added that just because another town allows twenty days, it doesn’t mean that Ridgewood needs to allow twenty days. It is hard to imagine that anyone would sue the town because they had to take a sign down after the election whether they supported someone who won or lost. Mr. Rogers explained that this was a Court decision relative to free speech and not a decision made by another town.
Ms. Ringel said that placement of the sign should be as limited as possible within the law and no signs for a political campaign of any kind should be allowed on Village property. These signs are distracting to drivers and she urged the Village Council to limit signs to the greatest possible extent, within reasonable law.
Mayor Knudsen asked Mr. Rogers for a copy of the case law on this matter and she reiterated that there will be a complete overhaul of the sign ordinance in the future.
There were no further comments from the public, and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be continued to September 7th. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
h. Public Hearing - #3541 – Repeal Ordinance 3066
Mayor Knudsen moved the second reading of Ordinance 3541 and that the Public Hearing be opened. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3541 by title:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD AMENDING CHAPTER 145, FEES, AND CHAPTER 190, SECTION 143 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD ENTITLED LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT, BY REPEALING ORDINANCE #3066
Mayor Knudsen stated that Ordinance 3541 will be amended to indicate that it is amending Chapter 190, Section 143 and Section 144 of the Code of the Village of Ridgewood, which are the sections of Chapter 190 which were included in Ordinance 3066. It will be amended in the title of the ordinance, as well as in the second paragraph. This is not a substantive change, so the public hearing and consideration for adoption for this ordinance will take place this evening. At this time, Mayor Knudsen entertained a motion to amend Ordinance 3541.
Councilman Sedon moved that Ordinance 3541 be amended to indicate in both the title and in the second paragraph that Chapter 190, Section 143 and Section 144 are being amended.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Mayor Knudsen stated that the Planning Board has not yet been able to review Ordinance 3541, so the Public Hearing will be continued to the September 7, 2016 Public Meeting. The Public Hearing on this ordinance will be held this evening, due to the fact that it was previously advertised as being held tonight. The Public Hearing was opened.
Gwen Hauck, 217 Fairmount Road, asked for confirmation that this matter is being carried to September 7th. Ms. Mailander reaffirmed that the public hearing on this ordinance is being carried to September 7th.
There being no further comments from the public, Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be continued to September 7, 2016, Councilmember Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
10. RESOLUTIONS
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 16-240 THROUGH 16-251 WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA, WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:
11. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Lorraine Reynolds, 550 Wyndemere Avenue, stated that spending $295,000 of taxpayer dollars on nine construction documents for a garage design that has not been voted on is unacceptable. She cannot forgive this waste of taxpayer dollars and neither should any of the Councilmembers. She understands that some of the money was used on another design so it wasn’t a total waste; however, this expenditure remains completely unacceptable and should not go unanswered.
Jacqueline Hone, 30 Carriage Lane, agreed with Ms. Reynolds and said that there is a difference between an ethical responsibility and a fiduciary obligation to act and report against wrong doing. Ignoring complaints and not bringing forward known information is willfully concealing.
Changing the subject, Ms. Hone stated that public comments are going on forever, because nothing is ever answered, complaints are never addressed and residents feel like they aren’t being heard. Every project goes forward full throttle no matter what anyone says, and there are no consequences when anyone does anything wrongfully and willfully incorrect. Frustration is increasing and trust is decreasing. The public is beginning to seek protection and answers from outside the municipality. Ms. Hone said that as Ms. Reynolds just pointed out, the waste of $300,000 is unacceptable. Ms. Hone said that action may be taking place behind the scenes that they are not aware of, but residents’ concerns need to be addressed. She said that Councilman Voigt’s call for an investigation is premature since even simple questions can’t be answered. The public asks questions in this public forum week after week and they send emails without any response. Ms. Hone said she spent last week asking if Tim Cronin said at a public meeting that there would be no lights at Habernickel Park. She is still awaiting a response. She feels that there is no interaction or communication with anyone. Ms. Hone thinks that if residents ask too many questions there may be retaliation or as in her case, a resident may be publically shamed. Ms. Hone said that action has to be taken, because this is nonsense. She asked if there would be any disciplinary action taken against Ms. Sonenfeld for the way she tries to push things through.
Mayor Knudsen said that they are looking into any complaints that were made. The application for the Bergen County Open Space Grant filed today is simply an intent to reply and the application is due on October 13th. This course of action will ensure that the process is appropriate, with a public hearing scheduled for September 14th. They are looking at the 2015 grant application and she noted again that a packet was delivered to the full Village Council containing all relevant documents.
Mayor Knudsen referred to the lighting issue at Habernickel Park and stated that this is being addressed. She visited the area on Friday night and was surprised to see how bright the lights were. There are times when everyone is not aware of everything that is going on, as alluded to by Ms. Hone.
Ms. Hone asked when the public would be consulted as to how the open space money should be spent. Mayor Knudsen explained that the Village Council made the decision to move forward with the project at Memorial Park at Van Neste Square after considering three different options that were reviewed at the previous meeting. In this case, the public doesn’t get to weigh in on how or where the money will be spent.
Ms. Hone said that the Village Manager has presented a packet of documents to Village Councilmembers regarding the Schedler property and the grant application. Ms. Hone asked if she would be able to present her documentation to Village Councilmembers as well. Mayor Knudsen told Ms. Hone that she is welcome to email these documents to her or to deliver a packet to each of the Councilmembers. This information can be added to the documents they are reviewing. Ms. Hone said she has provided this information on three occasions and she is now asking to sit down and explain these documents to the Village Council. Mayor Knudsen said that after the Village Council has reviewed the documents supplied by Ms. Sonenfeld, Ms. Hone will be contacted and invited to review the information she has provided with Village Councilmembers.
Councilman Sedon referred to the lights at Habernickel Park and recalled a statement he had made about lights. He stated that he recalled writing a story on this for the Ridgewood News. He reviewed his clippings and found that Mr. Rutishauser had made a reference to the lights on the field. At that time, there was a controversy about lights being on too late at Stevens Field, Maple Park and the High School and people were very sensitive to this issue. Councilman Sedon clarified that when he spoke at the last meeting he was speaking about field lighting, and not parking lot lighting.
Timothy Cronin, Director of Parks and Recreation, said that Councilman Sedon is correct that lighting in the parking lot or on the exterior of any buildings was never mentioned. Ms. Sonenfeld said that she thinks a misstatement was made relating to the fact that the lighting installed at the parking lot in Habernickel Park is not related to HealthBarn. She pointed out that lighting boxes appear on the 2010 plan that was approved by the Village Council.
Mayor Knudsen stated that the Village Council holds the quality of life of the residents as a top priority. They are taking the lighting issue very seriously, it is being addressed, and in the future she expects to present a formal lighting policy.
Saurabh Dani, 390 Bedford Road, asked if the timing of the lighting at Habernickel Park is the same as in all of the other Village parks. Mayor Knudsen pointed out that some of the parks are owned by the Board of Education and the Village has no jurisdiction over these areas. Ms. Sonenfeld said that in most Village-owned premises, the lights operate from dusk to dawn. She will give Village Councilmembers a list of these areas.
Mr. Dani recalled a discussion on money that has been spent on legal issues and the fact that there may only be limited funds left to cover these costs for the remainder of 2016. He said that they do not have to act according to the budget laid out by the previous Village Council, and if they want to spend additional funds, they can fund additional money through bonding.
Regarding the grant application which was just filed, Mr. Dani stated that three options were explained last week. He thought that Village Councilmembers should consult their constituents before making a decision as to how the money should best be spent. Village Councilmembers should not have to make a decision in the timespan of one week. Mayor Knudsen commented that this makes sense and noted again that what was submitted today is a letter of intent to file an application, and not the actual application. She agreed that the Village Council should have ample time to consider options since this is a grant that is offered annually.
Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, said that he disagrees with any change to the public comment section of the meeting. An expanded forty-minute public comment period, with a limitation of three minutes per person is fine, but he opposed any proposal to reduce the amount of time in any way. A reduction of the public comment section in Teaneck was recently attempted and the town received very bad press because of it. Mr. Loving reminded the Village Council that there are many people who are not techno savvy and the idea of sending in questions to a computer wouldn’t work. There are also many residents, especially senior citizens, who do not have computers. He said that being able to speak publically at Village Council meetings is a service provided by the Village, in addition to being a privilege, which residents find important.
Mr. Loving referred to the project at Memorial Park at Van Neste Square and recalled Ms. Sonenfeld stating at the last meeting that the personalized brick pavers would be relocated to another section of the park. He asked if these bricks would be placed in an area that is presently composed of dirt. The addition of these pavers in lieu of soil would allow for additional impervious surface and water would not be able to runoff as well. Ms. Sonenfeld indicated that the bricks will be moved to a location that is already covered by concrete.
Mr. Loving referred to a newspaper article containing some negative comments about the sale of water from Hawthorne to Ridgewood. There have been posts recently on social media concerning people paying water bills on-line, who are being hit with late fees because there is no notice indicating that it takes 4 to 5 days to process these on-line payments. Mr. Loving said it is time for one of the Village Councilmembers to be named as a liaison to Ridgewood Water.
Mr. Loving read from the article describing a Councilmember from the Borough of Hawthorne who tried to reach someone in Ridgewood, who could provide information on water rates. This individual said he got the runaround and no one had any answers. Hawthorne has a detailed breakdown of all of their rates on their Borough website but Ridgewood does not provide this information. The individual said he wished there was more transparency. He was asked if Hawthorne should gouge their customers in a similar way to what Ridgewood does. Mr. Loving pointed out that this is not good press and there is a lot of confusion. He again proposed a liaison that could get to the bottom of this.
Ms. Sonenfeld said that an employee came to her office this morning claiming that this article was untrue. She said that the Village is in negotiations on water rates at the moment, and she couldn’t comment further. She noted that there are some areas of concern that must be worked out with Hawthorne. Mr. Rogers said that all contracts must be approved by NJDEP and these are public documents. Mayor Knudsen applauded Councilwoman Walsh for suggesting that Ridgewood Water be treated as a separate entity, recognizing a Board of Directors and using a separate part of the agenda. She stated that they must refine their approach even further, and she agreed that a Council liaison who can review pertinent materials is necessary.
9. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION
Ms. Mailander read Resolution #16-252 to go into Closed Session as follows:
11. ADOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Sedon, seconded by Councilwoman Walsh, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 9:40 P.M.
_________________________________ Susan Knudsen Mayor
_________________________________ Heather A. Mailander Village Clerk
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