20170201 - Village Council Work Session - Minutes

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 1, 2017 AT 7:30 PM

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

Mayor Knudsen called the meeting to order at 7:32 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 Heather Mailander, Acting Village Manager; Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney; and Donna M. Jackson, Deputy Village Clerk.  

Mayor Knudsen led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and held a Moment of Silence for all the men and women serving our nation and all first responders.

2. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

Mayor Knudsen asked if there were any comments or questions from the public.

Susanne Warfield, 484 Spring Avenue, urged the Village Council to amend Ordinance #3570, which prohibits short-term rentals of single family homes. She felt the zoning and accessory use policies in place today needed to be updated to reflect the tremendous growth of the internet and the fast-growing popularity of home sharing internet platforms. Ms. Warfield felt that responsible home sharing does not alter the character of a residential neighborhood.   Home sharing can generate significant benefits for small businesses downtown, and bring families together. Accordingly, other communities have begun to revise their zoning policies to allow for occasional home sharing. Ms. Warfield made the following suggestions:

• Require annual licensing and/or regulation of space (Assembly Bill No. 4441 just introduced January 10^th by Assemblywoman Huttle);
• Allow home sharing as an “accessory use” in all zoning districts where residential use is permitted;
• Require an annual fire inspection for safety; and
• Tax Income for the Village - If Assembly Bill No. 2574, introduced September 26, 2016, passes the legislature, it will impose a sales and use tax, a transient accommodation fee and it will authorize municipalities to charge a local transient tax up to 3%

Ms. Warfield welcomed the opportunity to work with an ad hoc committee, should one be appointed.

Anne Loving, 342 S. Irving Street, felt that short-term rental of residential homes was more conducive for resort towns. She read that short-term rentals have gotten so out-of-control in the Hamptons that restrictions had to be enforced.

3. DISCUSSION
4. Ridgewood Water

                        1.)        Award Professional Services Contract - USEPA Compliance Services for Evaluation of Groundwater Wells

 

Acting Village Manager Ms. Mailander explained that under Administrative Order SDWA-02-2015-8029 issued from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), Ridgewood Water is required by USEPA to evaluate the vulnerability of certain groundwater wells under the direct influence of surface water. Leggette, Brashears & Graham, Inc. (LGB), have provided Ridgewood Water with ongoing compliance services for continued implementation, quarterly reporting requirements, and preparing the final report. LGB will also provide follow-up support services after the completion of the program, in order to secure closure of the issue with EPA and NJDEP. The amount is not to exceed $35,000, and funding for this project is contained in the Water Operating Budget Account.                    

                        2.)        Authorize Change Order - Installation of Backup Power at Critical Facilities

Ms. Mailander explained that the design project was awarded on January 13, 2016. At this time, an additional $62,445.00 is required, because the design phase included a $40,000.00 allowance for permitting. In the course of the design and presentation, it was found that additional permitting work was required, which will include Planning Board approvals from the Township of Wyckoff and the Borough of Midland Park. Additionally, flood plain and wetland permits will be required from NJDEP.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Richard Calbi, Director of Operations, explained that there is a formal application before the Planning Board. There will be an amended site plan presented for each of the sites. Mr. Calbi, Village Attorney Matthew Rogers, as well as other Village professionals, will attend these hearings and offer expert testimony.

3. Award of Contract - Furnish and Delivering Sodium Hypochlorite - Second Year

Ms. Mailander explained that last year the Village awarded a two-year contract to Miracle Chemical Company to provide sodium hypochlorite solution at a cost of at $3.62 per gallon. This is the same price as 2016.

                        4.)        Award of Contract - Servicing and Repair of Potable Water Pumping Facilities - Second Year

Ms. Mailander explained that last year the Village awarded a two-year contract for the Servicing and Repair of Potable Water Pumping Facilities. This is the second year of the contract. The cost is $191,300.00, awarded to A.C. Schultes, Inc. The cost is the same as last year.

1. Parking

                        1.)        Central Business District Non-residential Parking

Ms. Mailander directed the Village Council member’s attention to ordinances from the towns of Allendale, Bloomfield, the Township of Morris in Morris County, and Westwood, NJ, concerning the number of parking spaces required for various places, such as restaurants, theatres, and places of worship.

Councilman Voigt spoke about an acute parking issue in and around the train station. This parking issue is presumed to be exacerbated by the number of restaurants located in this area, which have a total of approximately 2900 to 3000 seats. This parking issue becomes very acute on the weekends (Thursday through Saturday nights). Councilman Voigt referred to Village Code #190-121, which addresses parking in this area. He described the ordinance as fairly liberal, as it relates to the number of spaces based on square footage, when compared to other towns. For example, Ridgewood requires 1 space for every 300 square feet of downtown space, compared to Westwood and Allendale who required significantly less, which he recalled to be 1 space per 75 square feet, most notably on the restaurant side. These ordinances also require 1 parking space for every 3 seats in a restaurant. Councilman Voigt estimated that Ridgewood would require almost 1,000 parking spaces under this criterion. The current inventory of parking spaces in this area is probably between 600 and 700 spaces. Councilman Voigt asked the Village Council to consider whether or not they are going to place further restrictions on parking, most specifically as it relates to restaurants. He pointed out that the average restaurant contains 60 seats, so if a new restaurant opened, an additional 20 parking spaces would be required.

Councilman Voigt asked Village Planner, Blais Brancheau, to comment further on this issue. Mr. Brancheau explained that the Planning Board, as part of its reexamination of the Master Plan and the Development Regulations in the Village, had looked at this issue Village-wide, but particularly the Central Business District (CBD). The current ordinance regulates parking based upon zone, not based upon use, so every use in the zone is subject to the same standard. While this has certain advantages in situations that have a mixture of uses that complement each other well, the CBD, in particular, has experienced a parking shortage for many years. This parking deficit varies based upon time of day or the day of the week. Over the past 50 years, the private market has not addressed this parking shortage. Mr. Brancheau described two ways of addressing this shortage as follows: tearing down buildings and replacing them with parking, which decreases the parking demand and is not economically feasible when considering the cost of demolition, the loss of revenue, and the cost of constructing the parking lot; and constructing private parking decks, which are generally not feasible in the downtown area and also contain a building cost that is out-of-the-reach of most small businesses in the downtown area.

Mr. Brancheau explained that the Village Council must either address the demand for parking or the supply for parking. The demand for parking in the private market has changed over the years. In previous years, traditional downtowns had far more daytime oriented retail, such as clothing stores, food stores and hardware stores. Downtowns all over are moving away from these type of uses. Retail is changing, as a result of competition with internet shopping and changing shopping habits. Currently, downtown areas are experiencing a shift towards services, convenience retail and nitch retail uses such as, restaurants, banks, dance studies and nail salons. Hours of operation for these uses also changes the dynamics of the parking shortage being faced by Ridgewood and other downtown areas. Mr. Brancheau said the Village Council must determine whether to increase the supply of parking, decrease the demand for parking, or a combination of the two. This problem cannot be solved by just leaving it to the market to fix.

Mr. Brancheau pointed out that the Village Council has already taken steps to increase the supply of parking spaces by, for example, restriping of parking spaces in the public lots and on the street, use of valet parking, and leasing of private parking areas.   Although effective, it has not totally solved the problem. There is a limit on the availability of private parking for leasing, and as uses change in the future, this option may no longer exist.   Discussions have also been held on increasing supply through the building of parking decks, which will take time and will not be an immediate solution.

Mr. Brancheau listed some different ways for decreasing demand such as: tearing down buildings, which is not something anyone wants to see; encouraging people to walk and bicycle more by providing pedestrian-friendly options such as bicycle racks, which may have limited effectiveness; and have a mix of uses in the downtown, such as office and residential, that share the same parking spaces, just at different times of the day. This is market driven as well as zone driven, and Mr. Brancheau noted that the current CBD is not really an office park area. The Village Council has increased parking rates and placed restrictions on the time periods for the public parking that it controls. Both of these steps have decreased demand in a sense, but are of limited effectiveness and when executed improperly can be punitive and actually detrimental.

Mr. Brancheau noted that the solution must be a combination of increasing supply and temporarily limiting demand. Under the current code, with parking based upon zone and not based upon use, certain uses, such as restaurants, use far more parking spaces than code requires. Because there is no standard that is based upon use, when a use changes from a low parking demand use, such as a furniture store, to a high parking demand use, such as a restaurant, the ordinance does not trigger a variance because parking is regulated by floor area, not use. Mr. Brancheau pointed out that many uses in the downtown do not meet even the existing parking requirement.  

Mr. Brancheau stated that he was reviewing an application today for a yoga studio and, based upon the applicant’s floor plan, the studio area was proposed to have 24 occupants. Based upon the ordinance, the entire tenant space, including the studio and other areas, only required 6 spaces. So, the actual parking demand was four times greater than the ordinance requires. He added that medical offices typically generate more parking than one space per every 300 square feet.

Mr. Brancheau stated that he agrees with the Planning Board’s solution to base the parking requirements on both zone and use, and to modify them, to a certain extent, for the downtown area. Patrons may visit only one, stand-alone store located on a highway; however, in the downtown area, patrons may use just one parking space, but visit a few stores. A restaurant use that has a demand at night, may not conflict with a retail use that is closed at night. While he agreed that parking requirements based upon use would help to limit the increasing demand upon parking and the increasing of the actual deficit in the CBD area, care is needed on how this is implemented to avoid a severe, economic impact. Currently, the market is having an impact on the CBD by excessive competition for limited parking. A solution that strikes a balance will take some study, time, and effort to come up with the appropriate ratios that take into account the presence of public parking, shared parking at different times of the day, and shoppers that are using one parking space but are visiting more than one establishment. Mr. Brancheau noted that Westfield, NJ has a downtown very similar to Ridgewood’s downtown and they regulate by both use and zone. Some adjustments had to be made, however, for the CBD because many of the buildings were built before the more popular use of the automobile, and there is not enough room to provide parking. The key issue is giving the Village the ability to deny new uses that will have a significant impact on parking. Mr. Brancheau pointed out that uses will be subject to a variance, and that any use that is currently in place would be grandfathered. The only time this would have an effect on an existing business, would be if this business changed its use to a more intensified parking use or if floor area were added that would trigger a parking requirement.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Brancheau stated that there have been studies that have looked at actual parking usage in the downtown, and the floor area, as well. The difficulty is that uses have been changing over time, and without doing an assessment of what the uses are currently and how much parking is being used, it is difficult to get an exact figure. In a downtown area, the key factors are going to be where the people are parking, and whether or not the peak demands for parking coincide amongst various uses. Until the parking supply can be increased, the only realistic way to handle the parking issue is by restricting uses that place a heavy demand for parking, with time-of-day being a factor in determining that demand. As an example, Mr. Brancheau noted that a breakfast restaurant may have a lighter parking requirement than a restaurant that operates at night time, because there is an adequate parking supply available at breakfast time, as opposed to nighttime, especially during the weekend. Mr. Brancheau noted that the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) has a publication entitled, “Parking Generation”, that is based upon parking studies conducted throughout the country over the last 30 years. However, more information is needed regarding these studies before the figures can be applied to the situation in Ridgewood. This is also true when considering the ways other towns have addressed their parking issues.

Councilman Hache asked how a base line could be established. Mr. Brancheau explained that, first of all, it is necessary to understand what the problem is in Ridgewood: time of day; day of the week; and how much of a deficit is involved. If the previous studies have not already addressed this, the first thing Mr. Brancheau would do would be to conduct a field survey of what those conditions are and when those conditions occur. He explained that the deficit must be determined at its worst time. If the deficit is location specific, he suggested applying the standards only to certain areas. Some relief from the standards could be applied to businesses located closer to a public parking lot.

Mr. Brancheau recommended that the Village tread lightly while solving this parking issue, so as to not hurt businesses or to discourage investment in the downtown area.

Councilman Hache noted that a study could provide a very realistic assessment of conditions for a new business owner who is considering Ridgewood as a location. Councilman Hache spoke of the importance of determining what direction the market is going. Mr. Brancheau agreed, noting that malls, that have the advantages of free and adequate parking, and a lot of space, are struggling just like downtown areas because of existing market conditions. The Village must be cognizant of what the downtown area will support in the future to determine parking demand. Standards cannot be established that discourage the very uses that are most appropriate for the downtown. Standards need to allow for uses that want to be located downtown, while, at the same time, create supply and limit demand in those locations, areas, and times that are going to be too conflicting with each other. It is important, in the short term, to prevent the situation from getting worse, and then working toward improving the situation in the long run by increasing the supply of parking, understanding the direction the market is going in the downtown, and proper investment in the infrastructure.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Brancheau stated that land use, traffic, and parking are all related and must be looked at together. In this sense, it is like a long term, master planning activity. In the short term, Mr. Brancheau stated that he is proposing to review existing data, supplement this data with additional field surveys, getting an understanding of where and how big the problems are, and addressing this with an ordinance amendment that would regulate parking by location and use in the downtown, taking into account the factors of shared parking, public parking, and time of day.

Councilwoman Walsh noted that the Village Council does not yet have the data regarding how the parking situation will be improved as a result of the change in the parking permits designating employee parking spaces. She also noted that Councilman Voigt had already conducted a quick survey of the number of seats in each restaurant and how much volume they currently have. Councilwoman Walsh was pleased that the Planning Board is working on this issue.

Mr. Brancheau agreed that the employee parking program is increasing supply in certain locations.

Councilman Sedon said that Mr. Brancheau’s presentation answered his questions regarding the impact on current and future businesses and what the next steps should be.

Councilman Sedon pointed out that some of the information needed for the study may already be contained in the Walker Report. He recalled that this report contained a color-coded map indicating either less, moderate, or heavy usage, as well as time of use. Mr. Brancheau stated that information contained in this study, along with another study done around 14 years ago, could be used as sources of information.

Mayor Knudsen thanked Mr. Brancheau, Councilman Voigt, and the Planning Board for all their hard work on this issue. She agreed that everyone must proceed cautiously to achieve a well-balanced solution.

1. Budget

                        1.)        Deferred School Tax for 2017

Ms. Mailander explained that this is an annual resolution which will allow for the maximum deferral, which is the most favorable position to take since it increases the Village’s fund balance. It will also help offset any restrictions from reserve accounts which may arise from 2016 financial operations.

                        2.)        Appropriation Reserve Transfer Resolution

Ms. Mailander explained that this resolution will allow the transfer of monies from departments that have excess funds in the 2016 budget, to departments that don’t have enough funds in their 2016 budgets. She called the Council members attention to a summary contained in their packets as to why these transfers are necessary.

                        3.)        Sewer Fees for Significant Discharges - Wastewater Collection System

Ms. Mailander explained that since 2010, the rate has been set at $4.03 per 1,000 gallons of flow in excess of 109,500 gallons discharged from both commercial and non-profit properties, as measured by water meter consumption during the two winter quarters, when there is a lower usage of water. After examining operating costs, and the cost of living increase rate, the Village Engineer is recommending the rate be increased to $4.27 per 1,000 gallons, for 2017. The $.24 per gallon increase represents a just under 6% increase over the last six years, as the rate has not increased since 2010.

            4.)        Sustainable Jersey PSE&G Grant

Councilman Sedon explained that this grant has been made available to Ridgewood because the Village is certified at a bronze level through Sustainable Jersey. This certification opens up various grant categories to the Village; this PSE&G Grant being one of them. Councilman Sedon referred the Village Council members’ attention to the narrative from the grant application. The narrative included information on who the grant will benefit, what it will do for the community and things of this nature. Councilman Sedon stated that a meeting was held this week with a forester, Andrew Hillman, of the Davey Resource Group, along with the Chairperson of the Shade Tree Commission, Monica Buesser. The Davey Resource Group conducts inventories of the type that the Village is seeking. Currently, there is an estimated 13,000 street trees in Ridgewood. Some of the earlier inventory cost estimates came to $4.30 or $4.80 per tree. At an average cost of $4.50 per tree, the approximate cost of the entire project would be $58,500. The $20,000 grant is a reimbursement grant. The funds would be paid up front by the Village and then reimbursed, so the cost should be placed in the Capital Budget. If the grant is not received, no bonds will be issued.

The Davey Resource will send in one or two licensed and certified foresters who will cover the Village and then submit an estimate in between 6-8 weeks. The information provided will include the diameter, the species, and the condition of the tree, as well as the address where the tree is located in front of, and X and Y GPS coordinates.   All this information will go toward fulfilling the 5-year Forestry Management Plan, for which the Village received a Community Stewardship Reimbursement Grant approved on January 12, 2017. Councilman Sedon added that there are also Community Stewardship Incentive Program (CSIP) Grants, which will be announced in February and could potentially be another source to fund this project. Once the information is received from the forester, it could be broken up in sections according to the recycling map. If each section will cost approximately $15,000, and the Village receives enough grant money for one or two sections per year, the work could be completed in this manner. Councilman Sedon projected that if one or two sections are completed in one year, the Village will be in a more favorable position to receive additional grant money to complete the work over the next two years, at ultimately no cost to the Village. This work would help the Shade Tree Commission identify areas that may have been hit harder during storms, and areas where sidewalk replacement and regular tree maintenance resulted in tree loss. More trees add to aesthetics, a reduction in cooling costs, and storm water mitigation. Trees identified as dangerous would help with Risk Management, as they could be removed.

Councilman Sedon said there will be more information on the costs and project time lines as dealings with the forester progresses. The grant submission deadline is February 28, 2017 and a resolution from the Village Council authorizing and endorsing the grant, is necessary.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Councilman Sedon stated that the Village arborist has identified several trees that have oak wilt, a disease without a cure. Choosing to remove these trees, based on the individual tree’s condition, could be identified in the inventory.

            5.)        Award Professional Services Contract - Review of HVAC System Operation at Village Hall

Ms. Mailander explained that this is a proposal from LAN Associates to provide professional services to review the HVAC system at Ridgewood Village Hall. The work is necessary to recommend any repairs or upgrades to the existing system to ensure that it is operating with the utmost efficiency. Some areas of the building are either warmer or colder than other areas of the building.  

Councilman Sedon noted that a vent downstairs was making a great deal of noise.

6. Award of Contract - Maintenance of Irrigations Systems - Water Fountains

Ms. Mailander explained that proposals were accepted for the years 2017 and 2018. Two submissions were received. The lowest proposal was from Tanz, Inc. This vendor has been recommended. The proposal covers various parts required for irrigation systems and water fountains.

7. Graydon Pool - Fees and Improvements

Ms. Mailander stated that she met with Councilman Sedon, Rich Brooks from the PRC Board, Nancy Bigos, Assistant Director of Parks and Recreation, and Tim Cronin, Director of Parks and Recreation, to discuss the proposals made by the Graydon Ad Hoc Committee concerning both pricing and hours. Ms. Mailander reminded the Councilmembers that the Parks and Recreation Department recommended that there be no change in the fees for adults and children. The only change recommended was for the day pass, which was to increase the $10.00 fee to $15.00.

Councilman Sedon listed the members of the Graydon Ad Hoc Committee as: Boyd and Anne Loving, Marcia Ringel, Lori Howard, Councilman Hache, Carrie Giordano, and himself.   The committee did not recommend any changes. The ideas proposed by the Graydon Ad Hoc Committee for repairs and maintenance were already proposed to be addressed by Village staff. One difference was the staff’s suggestion to raise day passes to $15.00 on the weekend. The Graydon Ad Hoc Committee was not in favor of this, as the members wanted there to be no change in fees in order to build up the membership base. Other items discussed were a 10% discount for early-bird badge sales between April 1^st and May 15^th, which staff felt would result in a potential loss of $15,000; a 50% reduction for badges purchased from August 1^st until the end of the season, which the staff supported; a family coupon, which the Committee found contained too many issues involving control and discount determination, but suggested it be looked at in the future after more data is available, such as the number of families that were coming into Graydon; and a Badge Holder 10-Day Guest Pass Booklet for $80.00, which the staff pointed out was offered in the past and abused, but a suggestion was made to bring it back in the future if there is a way the abuse could be controlled while still offering the day passes to badge holders; a coupon for a free day at Graydon, for Ridgewood residents only, which was done in the past, to help build up the membership base; and extended operating hours, which could not be supported for reasons of staffing and safety.

Councilman Sedon directed the Councilmembers attention to the list of agreed upon suggestions between the Committee and the staff that was contained in their packets.

Councilman Sedon pointed out that the fees need to be determined tonight, so that the ordinance is in place by the time badge sales begin on April 1^st.

Ms. Mailander asked the Councilmembers opinions on raising the Weekend Guest Day Pass from $10.00 to $15.00. She noted that there is an average of over 100 Guest Day Passes are issued every day. Mayor Knudsen expressed concern that a rate increase would reduce the amount of guest passes sold, resulting in a loss of revenue. Ms. Mailander explained that the rate increase is meant to encourage seasonal membership. Mayor Knudsen did not feel this would make people behave differently, except not to show up.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Ms. Mailander explained that more guest passes are sold on the weekends. Data indicates a significant drop in males who are joining in a seasonal membership, and who seem to come more often on the weekends.

Councilman Hache felt that a price increase may discourage usage, visitors and membership.

It was the consensus of the Village Council that the cost of the Day Guest Pass remains at $10.00.

A discussion was held on the suggestion for a 10% discount for early-bird badge sales between April 1^st and May 15^th. Ms. Mailander pointed out that this would lead to a loss of approximately $15,000 in revenue.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Cronin confirmed that the $15,000 loss was not an opportunity cost, but was an actual decrease in revenue.

Councilwoman Walsh suggested giving the discount only to those who have never purchased a seasonal badge or have been away from the pool for a number of years.

Councilman Voigt suggested specifically targeting, either by mail or e-mail, seasonal pass holders who haven’t purchased a seasonal pass in a few years.

Mayor Knudsen felt the discount should be offered to everyone, noting that customer loyalty should be respected.

Councilwoman Walsh felt that encouraging the purchase of seasonal passes will result in increased day pass and concession sales.

Mayor Knudsen questioned the number of seasonal passes sold between April 1, 2016 and May 15, 2016. Mr. Cronin stated that he will provide this information to the Village Council. Ms. Mailander noted that a three-year study (2010-2012) revealed that when this discount was offered, there was a loss in revenue of between $14,000 and $16,500.

Mayor Knudsen suggested changing the effective dates to April 1 through April 30, 2016.   Mr. Cronin stated that, historically, the majority of the revenue from the pool comes in from April through June.

A discussion followed, and it was the consensus of the Village Council to offer an early-bird discount for seasonal passes purchased from April 1, through April 30, 2016.

Ms. Mailander summarized the changes as follows: an early-bird discount for seasonal passes purchased from April 1 through April 30, 2016; a late season discount for passes purchased from August 1^st until the end of the season; a free-day coupon; and hours of operation set at 12:00 Noon to 7:30 p.m. during the weekdays and 10:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on weekends from June 3^rd until the end of the school year; 10:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. from the day after high school graduation through August 13^th ; and 12:00 Noon to 7:30 p.m. for weekdays and 10:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on the weekends from August 14^th through Labor Day. Full, experienced life guard coverage will continue throughout the season until Labor Day.  

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Cronin explained that a Village resident may purchase a day pass. A resident does not need to be a member of the pool to purchase a day pass. Approximately 5 to 7 years ago, day passes could only be purchased by seasonal pass holders. This practice was changed in an effort to generate more revenue.

Mayor Knudsen asked Mr. Cronin to change the dates of the seasonal pass report she previously requested to April 1, 2016 to April 30, 2016.

Councilman Sedon directed the Councilmembers attention to the report in their packets regarding the repair and maintenance needs and suggestions for improvements. The first priority is the improvement of the bathrooms. The Graydon Ad Hoc Committee recommended hiring a professional service to conduct a deep cleaning. The bathrooms were last renovated in 1999, so the staff suggested that a renovation may be a better idea. Questions were raised if NJDEP approval would be required, since the property is located next to a brook in a flood plain. Ms. Mailander noted that if the inside of the building is gutted, it must be made ADA accessible. She suggested completing the cleaning and minor repairs during this season, and beginning the process of planning and bidding for a renovation now, so it will be complete for next season. Ms. Mailander stated that money could be put in the Capital Budget for these renovations.

Councilman Sedon said that other priorities included painting, repairing the bridge and the pergola over the patio, installing outdoor showers, and power washing the playground. In the long term, the Committee’s suggestions included installing lockers, offering umbrella rentals, and renting out space for parties. A suggested, immediate improvement was the installation of hand scanners at different entry points. The Village already has the scanners, but a WI-FI connection is needed for them to work. There is money in last year’s Capital Budget for a WI-FI connection. Ms. Mailander stated that she will look further into this issue.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Cronin stated that many of the items on the list are routine maintenance items that are completed in April. He stated that the bathrooms are power washed prior to the season beginning and the toilets are set-up by an outside vendor. He pointed out that maintenance has not been completed on the site since Labor Day.

Mayor Knudsen thanked everyone on the Graydon Ad Hoc Committee for their hard work.

8. Accept Grant for Ramp to Gate House at Habernickel Park

Ms. Mailander explained that the Village received a Community Development Block Grant in the amount of $50,000 for ADA projects. This grant has a no-match requirement. The location of the approved project is the entrance to the Gate House at Irene Habernickel Family Park, where there is a need for a ramp to provide barrier free access. This resolution will allow the Village to accept the grant and to authorize execution of the grant agreement.

9. Replacement of Two Pumps - Wastewater Collection System

Ms. Mailander explained that the Village’s Ridgewood Lawns Pump Station experienced a failure of one of the two large pumps. The pumps need to be replaced immediately. The pump that is still operational is 28 years old. The Village is going to join the North Jersey Wastewater Cooperative Pricing System (NJWCPS) through the Passaic Valley Sewerage Commission (PVSC), which is the lead agency. The purchase price is $48,862.30 and the funds are available in various Capital Ordinances.

1. Policy

            1.)        New Recycling Regulations

Ms. Mailander called the Village Council members’ attention to the Ridgewood Green Guide 2017, which was contained in their packets. Mr. Calbi stated that since 2015, certain plastic containers are not being accepted for recycling because of market conditions.   This is actually causing a shortfall in the Recycling Budget. If any of these containers are found in the waste mix when the loads are delivered to the recycling facility, they are not pulled out separately; a back hoe or front loader scoops out the material and it all goes to the garbage. The Village ends up paying for that waste, and the reduction of the recycling tonnage results in a loss of revenue. He distributed photos to the Councilmembers illustrating this situation.

Mr. Calbi said that the Ridgewood Green Guide 2017 was mailed to residents on January 8, 2017. It described the items that are recyclable and those that are not recyclable and why it is important for the public to comply with these regulations. The contract is ending this March. It is possible that recycling may no longer be profitable. The cleaner the mix, the more valuable it is. Mr. Calbi stated that an education table was set-up during Earth Day and he would be happy to do the same during a Village Council meeting in March.

Councilwoman Walsh felt it was important to educate the public about these plastics, as they will now be going into landfills.   Mr. Calbi stated that the businesses that are using these products should be looking for replacement products. Letters could be written to government representatives to urge the enactment of new rules, prohibiting these types of containers.

Mayor Knudsen noting that some of the prohibited items still have the recyclable symbol on them. She suggested contacting School Superintendent, Dr. Daniel Fishbein, and the Board of Education President for ideas on how to educate through the schools. Mayor Knudsen also suggested sending letters to local businesses advising them of the situation and asking for their help. Councilman Sedon stated that REAC has offered to help with education.

            2.)        Establishment of an International Club     

Councilwoman Walsh explained that this club would gather people from neighboring towns together quarterly to talk about different countries. Topics could include the particular country’s history, its present, and its culture, to give each other a basic understanding of different cultures. Councilwoman Walsh noted that even simple greetings change from culture to culture and this will help people feel more comfortable. Councilwoman Walsh felt this will go a long way to bridge some of the divide that is occurring in today’s world.

Councilwoman Walsh will present a simple format for presentation at the next Village Council Work Session on March 1^st.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Councilwoman Walsh explained that setting this idea up as a club instead of a committee would allow for less structure, since there will not be members. The meeting will be held with whoever comes, and the moderator could change with each meeting. This is different than the Community Relations Advisory Board as it is specifically about different cultures.

Councilman Hache suggested involving the Arts Council in discussions about art in each particular culture.

7. REVIEW OF FEBRUARY 8, 2017 REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING AGENDA

Ms. Mailander stated that next week there will be two proclamations including Dad’s Night Days - Hawes School and Somerville School; Read Across America Day; and Super Science Saturday. There will be a swearing-in of six new Police Officers, as well as the Police Lieutenant and the Police Captain.

Resolutions for Ridgewood Water include: Title 59 Approval - Landscaping Services; Award Contract - Landscaping Services; Title 59 Approval - Cold Water Meters and Accessories; Award Contract - Cold Water Meters and Accessories; Title 59 Approval - Pipe, Appurtenances, and Service Materials; Award Contract - Pipe, Appurtenances, and Service Materials; Title 59 Approval - Furnishing and Delivering of Sodium Hypochlorite; Award Contract - Furnishing and Delivering of Sodium Hypochlorite; Title 59 Approval - Servicing and Repair of Water Pumping Facilities; Award Contract - Servicing and Repair of Water Pumping Facilities; Award Professional Service Contract - UESPA Compliance Services for Evaluation of Groundwater Wells; and Authorize Change Order - Installation of Backup Power at Critical Facilities.

The following ordinances are scheduled for introduction: Amend Chapter 265 - Vehicles and Traffic - Prohibit Parking - Sections of Sherman Place; Amend Chapter 265 - Vehicles and Traffic - Angle Parking; Amend Chapter 238 - Sewers and Sewage Disposal - Addition of Masticated Food Waste; Amend Chapter 145 - Fees - Sewers and Sewage Disposal - Liquid Waste Acceptance Program Fees; Amend Chapter 265 - Vehicles and Traffic - Bus Stops; Amend Chapter 145 - Fees - Significant Sewer Discharger Fees; and Amend Chapter 145 - Fees - Graydon Pool Fees.

The scheduled Public Hearings include: Amend Chapter 145 - Fees - Day Camp Fees; Amend Chapter 190 - Land Use and Development - Institutional and Religious Uses and Public Utilities; and Amend Chapter 265 - Vehicles and Traffic - CBD Parking.

Resolutions include: Authorize Membership Agreement - Cooperative Purchasing Program - North Jersey Wastewater Cooperative Pricing System through Lead Agency Passaic Valley Sewerage Commission; Title 59 Approval - Maintenance of Irrigation Systems/Water Fountains; Award Contract - Maintenance of Irrigation Systems/Water Fountains; Award Contract under Cooperative Purchasing Program - Truck Chassis for Sludge Hauling Tanker Truck; Award Contract under Cooperative Purchasing Program - Vacuum Tank Unit for Sludge Hauling Tanker Truck; Award Contract under Cooperative Purchasing Program - Pumps for Ridgewood Lawns Sewer Pump Station; Award Professional Services Contract - Surveys of Intersections for Upgrade of Traffic Signals; Award Professional Services Contract - 2017 Land Surveying Services Retainer for Preparation of Tax Assessment Maps; Award Professional Services Contract - Review of Village Hall HVAC System Operation; Authorize Designation of Acting Municipal Court Administrator; Authorize Girl Scout Troop 1136 and Ridgewood Shade Tree Commission Project - Shade Tree Nursery; Increase 2017 Deferred School Taxes; Approve Budget Reserve Transfers; Authorize Application for Sustainable Jersey PSE&G Grant; and Authorize Execution of Grant Agreement - Community Development Block Grant - Handicapped Accessible Ramp at Gate House of Irene Habernickel Family Park.

8. MANAGER’S REPORT

Ms. Mailander reported that the Village Council’s February 22^nd Work Session has been cancelled. The next Village Council Work Session will be held on March 1, 2017 at 7:30 p.m.

Water Forum - Ms. Mailander stated that the Ridgewood Water Department and the League of Women Voters hosted a Public Water Forum January 26^th, which was well-attended. Residents from the towns of Ridgewood, Midland Park, and Wyckoff attended.

PSE&G - Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that work is currently on-going on East Ridgewood Avenue, South Broad Street and Hudson Streets. Over the next three months, all businesses in the work area will be open for business. There are signs indicating this in the areas that are possibly closed to traffic, so please continue to patronize them. The underground gas main work continues around North and South Broad Street, as well as Franklin and Walnut. Some days are busier than others. The entire project will take approximately three months, weather permitting. There may be some night work done, as well. Paving will be done after this three-month period. The work should be completed within four months. There will be police presence on the job during the majority of the work, and at least one lane should be open to traffic.

Ridgewood Water is now on Facebook at Facebook/ridgewoodwater. Please “like” the page and look for important updates and events.

Sales of Parking Permits Continue - Ms. Mailander explained that additional premium hang tags are being sold to those on the waiting list. Once all the waiting list orders have been fulfilled, additional premium hang tags will be sold as supply allows, on a first-come-first-served basis. This will probably occur sometime next week. To avoid over-sale, there will only be a few extra premium hang tags available.

Community Garden Program - Ms. Mailander explained that the Community Garden Program offers gardening opportunities at Graydon and Habernickel Park to residents. Interested gardeners should call the Recreation Department at 201-670-5560 to be put on a waiting list. Ms. Mailander also referred interested gardeners to the website. Renewal letters will be mailed to last year’s participants and, depending on the response from the existing plot holders, it will then be offered to waiting-list people and then people not on the waiting list. Approximately 60% to 65% of the plot holders return.

Parks and Recreation and the Health Department Wellness Program - Ms. Mailander explained that Village employees and all Bergen County residents are invited to bring a brown-bag lunch to a Lunchtime Health Series to be held on the first Thursday of every month beginning on February 2^nd from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. The February 2^nd topic is “Heart Health”; the March 2^nd topic is “Quiet Your Mind/Activate Your Body” (Yoga); April 6^th is “Our Financial Health”; May 4^th is “A Healthier You - Eat Good”; and June 1^st is “Time Management”. These programs will be held in the Senior Lounge on the ground floor of Village Hall.

Parks and Recreation Department - Ice Skating - Ms. Mailander said that several park locations have been identified for ice skating including Kings Pond, Twinney Pond, Habernickel Park, and Graydon Pool. Information, including updated ice conditions and whether skating is permitted, is posted on the Recreation Website, as well as the Village Website.

Sign-up for E Notice - Ms. Mailander reminded everyone to sign-up for E Notice on the Village website to remain informed about important Village news and updates.

Snow and Ice - Ms. Mailander reminded residents that if there is ice and snow they must bring their garbage cans to the end of the driveway by the curb. Snow is required to be removed from all residential sidewalks within 24 hours of a snowfall. This is especially important on school walking routes, but required everywhere in residential areas.

9. COUNCIL REPORTS

Planning Board - Councilman Voigt reported that the Dayton application will be on the agenda for the next Planning Board meeting on February 7^th. The meeting will be televised live.

Senior Center Advisory Board - Councilman Sedon reported that the Senior Center Advisory Board met last Thursday. Fifty-five new chairs were delivered for the Senior Center in the Pat Mancuso Room and blinds were installed on the windows of the Anne Zusy Youth Center. Several exciting events are coming up from the group based on funds received through a TAB Grant. The Ridgewood News wrote an article about some of these activities.

Councilwoman Walsh addressed the Bogert Bridge signage that was installed recently. Residents have questioned her as to why parking is being restricted. She stated that she will speak with Charlie DeMarco, Citizens Safety Chairperson, and to Sergeant John Chuck about this issue, which she presumed was for safety reasons, based on discussions held at Citizens Safety Meetings and Village Council meetings. Minor modifications may be required.

Mayor Knudsen thanked Rich Calbi, Dave Scheibner, and especially Pam Perron from the League of Women Voters for a fabulous job on the Water Forum. Mayor Knudsen described the Water Forum as very informative and engaging. There was a lot of good questions and feedback from the public. Mayor Knudsen suggested holding another forum in the near future, as well as putting a live, power point on-line.

10. PUBLIC COMMENTS

Steve Groehnert, 462 George Street, thanked the Village Council for not raising the day pass fee for Graydon Pool. He welcomed the improvements proposed for Graydon Pool; however, he urged the Village to clarify the water, which he described as green. Mr. Groehnert observed that this color change begins to occur approximately three weeks into the season.

Mr. Groehnert spoke concerning parking enforcement at the Travell School on Fairfield Street. He stated that he was told by a traffic safety officer that he is not allowed to get out of his car when coming to pick-up his child, as that would constitute parking, and parking is prohibited in this area. Mr. Groehnert felt this was going overboard, as it was not allowing him to just walk to the fence by the dugout to let his child knows he is there. He felt the residents were being singled out. Also, vehicles are no longer being allowed to stand along the portion of the roadway after the dugout, going toward Glen Avenue on Fairfield Street. This occurs for an approximate 15-minute period at the school’s pick-up time. This causes parents to circle around Travell, which creates additional traffic and safety concerns.

Mr. Groehnert presented the Village Council with photographs of the area. Mr. Groehnert didn’t understand why parking is prohibited on Fairfield Street, as it is wide enough to accommodate two-way traffic and parked cars. There are no driveways on that side of the street. He asked for the no-parking signage to be removed and/or replaced with signage that allows standing for a 30 -minute duration at pick-up time. Mr. Groehnert pointed out that standing is allowed on the opposite side of the field on Bogert Street at pick-up time.

Using the photographs, Councilwoman Walsh explained that parking was eliminated because cars travelling in the straight-of-way were continuing on with disregard for those in the bump-out, resulting in near collisions occurring every few minutes. On the other street, it is a one-way street during school hours. There is parking on the east side of the street during the day and there is no parking on the other side, to accommodate vehicles dropping-off their children at Travell.

Mr. Groehnert stated that the afternoon pick-up, not the morning drop-off, is the problem. He did not understand why the no-parking rule was being enforced after being permitted over the last six years. Parents are becoming upset and some are receiving traffic tickets. Mr. Groehnert noted that parking spots have also been removed from this area, making it even more crowded.

Ms. Mailander stated that she will discuss this matter with the Police Department and get back to Mr. Groehnert.

Susanne Warfield, 484 Spring Avenue, referred to the International Club suggested by Councilwoman Walsh, stating that she felt the Councilmembers would be interested to know that she has hosted people from Hong Kong, Italy, Germany, France, Austria, and Ireland in her house as part of the short-term-rental program.

Boyd Loving, 343 South Irving Street, questioned why the hand-held scanners could not be made operational from an IT perspective. He suggested that secured WI-FI would work. Mr. Loving understood that there was also an IT issue that is preventing the bathrooms at the Stable from being remotely opened up. He urged the Village to be more customer-focused and to make some improvements for the public.  

Mr. Loving felt that something more than the current maintenance needs to be done to the bathrooms at Graydon Pool, as residents are complaining about conditions. He spoke of the importance of having someone who will make sure these issues are resolved, and move forward with the other suggestions made by the Graydon Ad Hoc Committee.

Under questioning by Mr. Loving, Mayor Knudsen understood that the Graydon Pool discount, that was offered during previous years, resulted in lower revenues, not in an operating loss.

Mayor Knudsen stated her appreciation of the work done by the Graydon Ad Hoc Committee, and said that the Village Council was 100% committed to having Graydon Pool cleaned-up properly. The Village Council is also committed to address the WI-FI issue, and this will be addressed at the next IT Committee meeting.

Councilman Voigt suggested that any profit from Graydon Pool could be reinvested in its upkeep.

Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, thanked Councilman Voigt for bringing up the profit reinvestment from Graydon Pool. She understood that money being brought in from Graydon Pool goes into the general funds and she pointed out that it is the only park that makes a profit. Ms. Loving thanked Mayor Knudsen for her commitment to Graydon Pool.

11. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION

Ms. Mailander read Resolution #17-25 to go into Closed Session as follows:

12. ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Walsh, seconded by Councilman Sedon, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Work Session was adjourned at 9:52 p.m.

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                                                                                                                     Susan Knudsen      

                                                                                                                           Mayor

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            Donna M. Jackson

          Deputy Village Clerk