20170322 Village Council 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 MARCH 22, 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 7:30 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, Village Manager/Village Clerk; 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.

Alyson McCormack, 51 Sherman Place, read a data report to support the suspending of Ordinance #3556 as follows:

1.)        there was no safety analysis done on Pomander Walk prior to the ordinance;

2.)        there were no vehicle accidents on Pomander Walk in the last five years which involved any safety issues;

3.)        the only reason Pomander Walk has the restriction is because it was asked for;

4.)        businesses next to Pomander Walk have expressed an extreme negative impact;

5.)          Pomander Walk service vehicles continue to use the street for their purposes, ignoring the ordinance that the residents requested and promised never to violate (at 3:30 p.m. today an oil truck was parked outside a residence next to the “No Parking” sign);

6.)        Pomander Walk restrictions are the most extreme in the Village;

7.)        this restriction forces pedestrians to park on Sherman Place and Cross over Godwin Avenue, a proven, high crash density intersection. Customers should be permitted to park on the side of the street where they belong to minimize risk.

Ms. McCormack urged the Village Council to reinstate both side of the street parking, with two-hour enforced limits as soon as possible.

Russell Forenza, 228 Emmett Place, congratulated Ms. Mailander on her appointment as Village Manager.

Mr. Forenza spoke on the importance of water conservation and the water restrictions currently in place. Mr. Forenza suggested that additional measures should be taken to conserve water, such as prohibiting residents from filling swimming pools and stopping all building in Ridgewood, Midland Park, Wyckoff and Glen Rock. Mr. Forenza felt it was important for all towns serviced by Ridgewood Water to be under water restrictions. Mr. Forenza felt that a two-day water restriction was not the right decision. He asked that additional studies be conducted to find additional water supplies, such as wells.

Mr. Forenza asked for answers on the missing coins.

Marianne Bennett, 448 Cambridge Road, thanked the Village Council for adding a discussion item to tonight’s agenda regarding repealing or amending Village Ordinance #3563, which addressed the no stopping/standing regulations recently imposed on Cambridge Road and Bogert Avenue. Ms. Bennett read from a statement stating that it was the understanding of her and her husband, Peter Bennett, that Ordinance #3563 was passed based on information and recommendations made by the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee (CSAC). The Village Council was told that this ordinance had the support of the neighborhood residents; however, the overwhelming majority of residents are against this ordinance and do not feel there are any pedestrian safety issues. Being a volunteer herself, Ms. Bennett expressed her appreciation for the citizens who volunteer on the CSAC. However, she felt the best action to take in this particular instance is to leave well enough alone. Ms. Bennett asked members of the audience to raise their hands if they feel Ordinance #3563 should be abolished. She urged the Village Council to either abolish Ordinance #3563 or passing the compromising amendment previously suggested.

Chris Reid, 112 Stanley Place, stated that even though residents of Pomander Walk testified before the Village Council concerning safety issues involving on-street parking, residents and their guests and contractors continue to park on Pomander Walk. Mr. Reid presented a photograph showing three vehicles parked on Pomander Walk. Mr. Reid stated that there is no data available to back-up any safety claim that justifies a no-parking restriction on Pomander Walk. Mr. Reid felt this restriction was placing a burden on the Westside Business District, which is in contrast to the Village Council’s actions urging the support of local businesses. Mr. Reid stated that parking on Pomander Walk is safe, as evidenced by the residents parking along the street.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Reid stated that the photograph he presented was also included in the e-mail correspondence he sent to the Village Council.

Gail Conenello, 23 Garfield Place, stated that based on the information provided by the surrounding residents of Pomander Walk, there is absolutely no valid basis to place the most restrictive parking restrictions in the Village on Pomander Walk, and there is certainly no basis to allow these restrictions to continue. Allowing the ordinance to remain in place simply continues to unfairly place the parking burden on surrounding streets. Ms. Conenello stated that a review of the Request for Proposal (RFP) for the Assessment of Traffic and Conditions in the Westside Study Area, revealed that it is designed to determine parking use and demand and “provide an estimate of the capacity of on-street parking availability, utilizing the Village’s current parking regulations found in Village Code Chapter 265”. Ms. Conenello stated that if this study is conducted without first revising the restrictions on Pomander Walk, the results of the study will be fundamentally flawed. As a resident of Garfield Place, which is located one block from George Washington Middle School, Ms. Conenello has witnessed daily pedestrian safety issues on Washington Place, Garfield Place, Sherman Place, Monroe Avenue and Godwin Avenue. Instead of conducting an expensive study, Ms. Conenello suggested implementing simple changes such as additional crosswalks, enforcement of the current, two-hour and one-side-of-the-street parking restrictions, enforcement of speed limits, and perhaps limiting parking restrictions to address real safety concerns.

Karen Bagdon, 23 Pomander Walk, stated that at a Village Council meeting in December, 2016, a decision was made indicating that before any additional changes or amendments were made to the existing ordinance, safety improvements would first be made on Sherman Place. Ms. Bagdon felt that these improvements should be implemented before any changes are made to the ordinance.

Erin Taddei, 419 Bogert Avenue, asked the Village Council to reconsider allowing parking on Bogert Avenue and Cambridge Road. Ms. Taddei stated that over the 19 years she and her husband and sons have lived at this address there have never been safety issues, even during peak drop-off and pick-up times at Travell Elementary School. Ms. Taddei expressed a concern with the lack of discussions and involvement with the people most directly impacted. Ms. Taddei stated that she only found out about the parking restrictions when a sign was placed in front of her property. A few days later, she received a ticket for parking for ten minutes in front of her home.   Ms. Taddei expressed a concern that there is misrepresentation on the part of the CSAC, noting that neighbors were not consulted. Ms. Taddei spoke of the hardships these parking restrictions place on her ability to safely transport her wheelchair-bound mother-in-law in and out of the house.

Phyllis Johnson, 420 Cambridge Road, stated that in the 44 years she has lived on Cambridge Road she has never known of any safety problem in the neighborhood. Ms. Johnson stated that the parking restrictions create a great, personal hardship for her as caregivers and relatives who visit every day have no place to park. Ms. Johnson stated that, to her knowledge, there was never any neighborhood input or study requested.

Joel Torielli, 422 Bogert Avenue, thanked the Village Council for their service. Mr. Torielli also urged everyone to remain civil, noting that neighbors and friends, while passionately defending issues, tend to become divided. Mr. Torielli stated that he was in favor of limiting the parking on Bogert Avenue during the hours when students and their families walk to-and-from school. Mr. Torielli stated that the lack of sidewalks creates a safety issue as pedestrians need to walk in the road past parked vehicles.

Mr. Torielli read from Village Ordinance Section 190-79 which indicated the following standards: compliance with the proposals in the Village Master Plan and Official Map, and permitting the safe, efficient, and orderly movement of vehicular and pedestrian traffic. Mr. Torielli urged the Village Council and the residents to come to a compromise.

Janet Torielli, 422 Bogert Avenue, stated that she was in favor of the parking regulations currently in place on Bogert Avenue and Cambridge Road, making street parking illegal from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday from September to June. Ms. Torielli stated that she has witnessed people almost getting hit by cars a number of times in her years as a resident. The current regulations keep parents and students safe. Bogert Avenue does not have sidewalks, which forces people to walk in the road, and she asked the Village Council to keep this in mind when making a decision.

Bill McLoughlin, 423 Cambridge Road, stated that there has never been a safety issue with his children walking to school during the 24 years he has lived here with his family. Mr. McLoughlin felt this ordinance was unnecessary. He suggested the addition of safety improvements, such as striping, at the corner at East Glen, where Bogert Avenue and Cambridge Road come into the circle. Mr. McLoughlin objected to how this change was communicated to the residents, as many only found out about it when signs were erected along the street. He questioned why the length of the parking restriction was 500’. He asked that additional discussions be held on this issue.

Melanie McWilliams, 431 Bogert Avenue, identified herself as a Ridgewood Planning Board member and the Safety Chairperson at Travell School, both volunteer positions. She has attended CSAC meetings and Village Council meetings for over 8 years to ask that some safety measures be placed on these streets. When shown over 90 photographs, Board of Education President Sheila Brogan and CSAC members felt the issue should be brought before the Village Council. The Village Council legally noticed the community in the newspaper about this ordinance. The engineers for the Village, using maps, State standards, and engineering, determined the distance and spacing for the ordinance. Ms. McWilliams was not involved in these determinations. Ms. McWilliams stated at a previous Village Council meeting, she offered to help notify any neighbors of this ordinance, but the ultimate responsibility to do so was never addressed to her nor should it have been. It is the government’s responsibility to adequately notify neighbors. Ms. McWilliams expressed disbelief that her efforts to protect neighborhood students and their families would be challenged by residents before the Village Council. She has needed to hire an attorney to protect herself. Ms. McWilliams stated that she has been unable to find one single, documented, or provable hardship related to the ordinance. She has shared over 300 photographs with the Village Council that detailed the safety issues on the street. The ordinance may not be popular but it is necessary. If a traffic study is conducted on Pomander Walk, a traffic study should also be conducted on Bogert Place and Cambridge Road. Ms. McWilliams felt that granting any change without consulting with residents who claim a hardship is circumventing the system. The dangers on the curve do not evaporate with the time of day. These dangers diminish only when no vehicles are parked on the curves, ever. Ms. McWilliams urged the Village Council to extend the ordinance to dusk (6:00 p.m.) and for it to remain in place all year for the protection of pedestrians, bicyclists and people attending events at Travell School.

Peter Quinn, 66 Pomander Walk, appreciated the passion and zeal of his surrounding neighbors; Mr. Quinn clarified that he was the resident who stated that he would not park on the street, and he has kept his word. Residents have been sharing driveways instead of parking on the street, and he suggested that the photos presented depict trade vehicles being parked along the street. He disagreed with the statement that Pomander Walk has the most restrictive parking in the Village, as he felt streets where parking is never allowed are the most restrictive, like Godwin Avenue. Mr. Quinn stated that he would like to have an opportunity to discuss a solution to the parking and safety concerns in both areas.

Bridget Kong, 69 Sherman Place, stated that based on the information supplied by residents to the Village Council showing that there are no documented safety concerns on Pomander Walk and the negative impact on nearby streets and residences, the Village Council should revisit the prior Village Council’s complete ban and find a long-term solution for all concerned parties. She questioned why a wide dead-end street abutting the CBD had the strictest parking ban in Ridgewood, from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., 365 days a year. Logic would dictate that this street must have an exceptional safety issue that differentiates it from all other streets; however, this is not the case. Ms. Kong felt there was no basis for granting this ban, and given the shortage of parking in town and the controversy surrounding its solution, she questioned how legal parking spots can be eliminated. Pomander Walk residents have demonstrated that they need these parking spots, too. Ms. Kong felt that Ordinance #3556 has set a dangerous precedent, as residents who want to ban parking in front of their homes have a strong basis for requesting and obtaining such a restriction. Prior to the ordinance being voted through by the last Village Council, surrounding businesses in nearby streets asked for the issue to be tabled so that the impact could be fully understood and studied. In the alternative, residents pleaded for a compromise to allow one-side-of-the-street parking on Pomander Walk so that the entire burden wouldn’t be forced across Godwin Avenue. Since the ordinance was enacted, residents have come before the Village Council repeatedly and corresponded regularly, asking that the ordinance be revisited giving its negative impact on neighboring streets, neighboring businesses and pedestrians, as well as the repeated violations. Ms. Kong felt that the ordinance was granted without merit or evidence of a problem and without forethought for the impact it would have. Ordinance #3556 provides relief to a handful of residents with unsubstantiated concerns and has a negative impact on the masses. Ms. Kong urged the Village Council to suspend Ordinance #3556 during the traffic study process and to allow one-side-of-the-street parking.

Laura Christenson, 421 Ponfield Place, stated that she has lived on Ponfield Place, which is located at the end of Bogert Place, for 21 years and, as a pedestrian, she has almost been hit by a car many times either because of cars speeding around the corner, or because of cars parked along both sides of the roadway. Ms. Christenson urged the Village Council not to remove the parking restrictions on Bogert Place.

Ryan McWilliams, 431 Bogert Avenue, asked for the Village Council to consider placing sidewalks along Bogert Place and Cambridge Road if parking is going to be permitted. He has lived on Bogert Avenue for 8 years and he has observed safety issues while walking from Glen Avenue to his house.

3. PRESENTATION
4. Finance Advisory Committee (FAC) assessment in Paying for a Parking Garage

Councilman Voigt, Village Council Liaison to the FAC; FAC members Evan Weitz, Brian Lahey, and Charlie DeMarco; and C.F.O. Robert Rooney were present.

Mayor Knudsen pointed out that the Village Councilmembers had the opportunity to review the material before tonight’s presentation.

Mr. Lahey thanked Mr. Rooney for all his help throughout the process. Mr. Lahey addressed the potential costs and revenue of a parking garage. Most of the information contained in the presentation was obtained from a study that the Walker Parking Consulting Group conducted for the Village in 2015. There were also a couple of parking statistics from a 2002 parking study conducted by Rich and Associates Parking Consultants for the Village, as well as current financial statements from the Village Parking Utility. The Walker Report studied the original proposal of a 350 parking space garage on Hudson Street.

The Village’s Parking Utility operates with an annual surplus of approximately $500,000, which has been relatively constant over the last two years. The originally proposed garage would result in additional net costs to the Parking Utility, on a standalone basis, of approximately $700,000 annually. This cost includes the approximate operating costs, debt service costs, and additional net revenues. The Parking Utility in aggregate can continue to remain self-sufficient with the inclusion of a garage, as long as additional revenue is raised through a combination of new sources, extending parking hours and meaningful rate increases.

Mr. Lahey described the current economics of the Parking Utility as it stands now. The annual revenues are approximately $1.1 million. The on-street meters represent approximately one-half of this amount. The other half comes from off-street parking lots, parking permits, and miscellaneous other fees. The annual expenses related to the Parking Utility are approximately $700,000. The majority of these expenses are coming from allocations that the Village makes from other Village Departments, such as the Police Department, Maintenance Department, and Finance Department. The remaining annual surplus is turned over to the General Fund of the Village.

Mr. Lahey described the inventory of parking within the Village. The Walker Study indicated a total inventory in the downtown area at just under 3,100 parking spots in aggregate. Close to two-thirds of these parking spots are located in privately owned, off-street lots. There are 1,141 parking spaces located on Village property, with approximately half located on-street and half located off-street in lots, including the train station. The Walker Study delineated the parking area of the Village into two areas; a core area (the more desirable locations) and a non-core area. The core area starts at the train station on Broad Street, stretches down Ridgewood Avenue past Van Neste Square to Walnut Street, and then goes one block north and south of Ridgewood Avenue.  

Mr. Lahey explained that the Walker Study considered the occupancy of each of the core areas at different times of the day. The core area weekday occupancy rate was at 82% at 10:00 a.m.; 75% at 2:00 p.m., and 82% in the evening, as compared to 66% at 10:00 a.m.; 68% at 2:00 p.m.; and 64% in the evening for the non-core areas. There was not a great difference between the parking occupancy rate in the studies conducted in 2015 and 2002, with the 2002 study having more occupied parking spaces.

The Walker Study indicated a higher occupancy rate during the evening weekend hours, particularly in the core area. The core area weekend occupancy rate was 69% at 10:00 a.m.; 79% at 2:00 p.m., and 92% in the evening. The non-core area weekend occupancy rate was 47% at 10:00 a.m.; 55% at 2:00 p.m., and 59% in the evening.  Mr. Lahey noted that another reason for the non-core area being less busy was the reduced number of commuters on a weekend. Mr. Lahey noted that some blocks within the core area will run at a higher occupancy rate than others and some blocks within the non-core area will run at a lower occupancy rate than others.

Mr. Lahey addressed the 350 space garage proposed for Hudson Street. The total construction cost for the garage was approximately $12 million ($34,000 per space). Mr. Lahey noted that another proposal option was a 400+ space garage with an approximate cost of $13 million. The annual debt service cost, at an estimated rate of 3% over 20 years, was $700,000. The annual operating costs were estimated at $270,000. The total annual incremental costs of both financing and running the garage was approximately $1 million annually. A 350 space garage would result in an additional capacity of 274 spaces (350 spaces minus the 76 spaces currently located on the surface lot). The annual estimated additional revenue from these 274 spaces was $300,000. The Walker Report did not model any new demand coming through the system. These additional revenues represent demand that is already existing effectively elsewhere in the system from the Brogan Cadillac Lot and the Ken Smith Lot and assumes that the non-resident parking that was previously available will return with the garage. It also includes reallocations of existing spots that may be going from less desirable locations into a garage. On a pure standalone basis, the garage would result in an additional net cost to the Parking Utility of $700,000 annually.

Mr. Lahey reported on the potential impact on finances. The current Parking Utility’s annual surplus of $500,000 is not sufficient to cover the additional net costs of $700,000 for a parking garage. In order to maintain the Parking Utility as self-sustaining, additional revenues would need to be raised to cover operating and debt service costs. The ultimate amount of additional revenue required would likely be dependent on debt service coverage covenants within the financing arrangements. The Walker Report estimated that there would need to be 50% more revenues than interest costs (1.6+ debt service). Mr. Lahey pointed out that these figures are based upon the Village financing the garage. A public/private partnership could be considered; however, the economics in terms of revenues in this instance would likely be similar. There would also be a shift in the risks and benefits involved, if the Village did not maintain 100% ownership.

Mr. Lahey explained that the Walker Report proposed raising rates on existing parking to not only cover financing and the costs of the garage, but to also take into account that a more desirable parking spot in a more desirable area would support a higher rate. The rate proposed for the core area would double from $.50 per hour to $1.00 per hour. The rate proposed for the non-core area would increase from $.50 per hour to $.75 per hour. The Walker Report also recommended extending parking hours from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. to increase revenue. All these changes would result in an additional $900,000 to $1.1 million a year in revenue. Combining this with existing economics within the Parking Utility, plus the cost of the garage, the Parking Utility would be self-sustaining.

Mr. Lahey noted that many other factors beyond financial also need to be considered, such as business growth, adequate parking for shopping and dining, Village vibrancy and reputation, the attractiveness of the Village as a place for commuters, parking accessibility, public good, affordability, and sustainability.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Lahey stated that both the core and non-core areas will have parking hours extended from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the higher rate.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Lahey explained that the proposal to raise rates and extend hours estimates a continuing annual surplus of $500,000 for the Parking Utility.

Councilman Voigt suggested getting input from the restaurant owners, who may not want customers to have to get up and put money in a parking meeting during their stay.

Councilman Sedon questioned how the $500,000 annual surplus was calculated. Mr. Lahey explained that the FAC looked at data from 2015 and 2016. In both 2015 and 2016, the Parking Utility had annual revenues of approximately $1.2 million, and budget expenses on an operating basis of approximately $700,000, most of which was in allocations with other Village Departments. Councilman Sedon felt it was very important to calculate this surplus using the accounting methods of a municipality. He noted that if a surplus of $500,000 already exists and the expenses total $700,000, only $200,000 would have to be raised, allowing for a smaller increase in the parking rates; for instance, $.75 an hour across the board. Mr. Lahey stated that he will consult with Mr. Rooney on this issue.

Councilwoman Walsh noted that the Parking Utility’s surplus funds are currently being allocated to other budgets within the Village, and she questioned whether these surplus funds would remain in the Parking Utility’s budget.   Mr. Lahey explained that the report details how the Parking Utility could remain self-sustaining with the addition of a parking garage. Councilwoman Walsh spoke of the importance of knowing this information because budget considerations would need to be made for those departments who depended on these surplus funds.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Lahey explained that the revenue figures from the operation of the garage were obtained from the Walker Report.

Councilwoman Walsh pointed out that the proposed multi-family developments currently before the Planning Board must be considered when assumptions are made on parking demand. Mr. Lahey agreed.

Councilman Hache felt some of the information contained in the report needed to be updated. The garage size is now closer to 240-250 spaces, bringing construction costs closer to $10 million. The figures must also take into account that the new design of the garage will include 2,300 square feet of retail space. At $40.00 per square foot, this would bring in an additional $92,000 in revenue. The smaller garage would also reduce the annual debt service cost. Mr. Lahey stated that he will update his report, as soon as this information is available.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Lahey explained that when the zero cost of the 76 existing parking spaces is taken into consideration, the total construction costs for the parking garage is $43,000 per parking space. The $34,000 construction cost per parking space contained within the report was based on 350 total spaces.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Lahey explained that the Walker Report did not assume any new demands for parking. It did assume that the demand for non-resident parking permits would increase.

Mayor Knudsen questioned how high parking fees can be raised before there is a negative impact on businesses. Mr. Lahey felt that consideration would have to be made to both cost and hours.

At the request of Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Lahey explained that the social considerations listed in the report; accessibility, public good, affordability and sustainability, indicate a desire to balance self- sufficiency with affordability, and the public good.

Mayor Knudsen noted that the Parking Utility’s budget expense allocations are based on the time personnel from other Village Departments spend working in that department.   The addition of a garage could potentially create an increase in these time allocations. Mr. Lahey stated that the data assumes that the current allocations remain and does not anticipate a major change, such as the garage.

Mayor Knudsen thanked Mr. Lahey and the FAC for all their hard work.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mayor Knudsen felt it would be better to wait until additional information is available before authorizing an updated study.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Rooney explained that there were years when the Parking Utility had deficits generated by defalcation. After the defalcation ended and an insurance reimbursement was received, a sufficient surplus was generated. In 2014, there was a surplus of approximately $400,000; at the end of 2015, the surplus was approximately $1.2 million which included the approximate amount of $700,000 from insurance proceeds. The Village decided to reimburse the General Fund for all the years the Village had to fund the deficits, which resulted in a surplus of approximately $100,000 for this year. Normally, the Parking Utility’s surplus and revenue remain relatively flat. The surplus at the end of 2016 was approximately $725,000. Revenue collections were flat on meters. There were some issues with the Park and Ride, but those issues have since been resolved. Mr. Rooney confirmed that surplus money can be used to offset increases in other funds, if necessary.

Under questioning by Councilman Sedon, Mr. Rooney stated that Parking Utility revenue collections for 2015 were approximately $1.2 million dollars. In 2016, the total revenue collections increased by approximately $20,000.

Mr. Rooney stated that data such as current interest rates and rate structures need to be analyzed before going forward.

4. DISCUSSION
5. Ridgewood Water

                        1.)        Change Order - Furnish and Install Control Valves at Various                          Locations

 

Village Manager Heather Mailander explained that the sole bid for this project in 2016 was from CFM Construction. This is a Change Order for an additional $26,960, which is required to complete work beyond the original contract scope. This represents a 9.6% increase and it is allocated in the Water Utility Capital Budget.

1. Parking         

                        1.)        Cambridge and Bogert Parking Restrictions

Mayor Knudsen expressed her appreciation to the residents for taking the time to come out and voice their opinions and concerns before the Village Council. Mayor Knudsen also thanked CSAC Chairman Charlie DeMarco for providing her with copies of CSAC meeting minutes specific to Cambridge Road and Bogert Avenue.

Mayor Knudsen stated that on or about September 15, 2016, there was a discussion at a CSAC meeting concerning the implementation of traffic calming stripes, offset from the curb at 36”. This topic came before the Village Council at the October 5^th Work Session, and voted by consent agenda on October 12^th under Resolution #16-317. Mayor Knudsen noted that these stripes have not yet been painted. Village Engineer, Christopher Rutishauser, understood that Resolution #16-317 was adopted; however, after further discussions with the Ridgewood Police Department, it was noted that without a no-parking ordinance there is nothing preventing a vehicle from obstructing the striped area, forcing pedestrians into the roadway, which went against the ordinance’s intent to improve motorist awareness of pedestrians. These stripes were proposed to be located on the outside of the curved portions of Bogert Avenue and Cambridge Road, for a distance of 500’ to 800’.        

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Rutishauser confirmed that parked vehicles can be a traffic calming measure because they constrict the traffic way for moving vehicles. However, considerations must be made for pedestrians walking in the street.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Rutishauser explained that from the curb 10’ back is a public right-of-way under the Village’s control. Mayor Knudsen suggested the installation of a non-traditional pedestrian pathway made of environmentally friendly, rubberized material. Mr. Rutishauser stated that anything placed in the public right-of-way must comply with Americans with Disabilities (ADA) requirements. He also pointed out that it must be clear whether the abutting property owners or the Village would be responsible for maintenance. Mayor Knudsen understood it would be the property owner. Mr. Rutishauser noted that running a pathway around a tree may result in an encroachment onto private property, which may require an easement.

Mayor Knudsen asked Mr. Rutishauser to explain the need for a 500’ distance, when discussions were focused around the circular portion of Bogert Avenue and Cambridge Road. Mr. Rutishauser explained that the distance was determined by the definition of an intersection and the required setback. Also considered was if parents would feel comfortable parking far away in order to discharge their children. The distance could be shortened by a few hundred feet; however, the arc of the curve must be avoided because it is considered an intersection.

Councilman Voigt suggested eliminating some of the shrubs to create a pedestrian pathway. Mr. Rutishauser stated there are also shade trees in this area. He will discuss this issue with the Village Attorney.

Councilman Sedon suggested restricting parking around the curve only during drop-off and pick-up times. Mr. Rutishauser stated that this is possible.

Councilwoman Walsh thanked the residents and the members of the CSAC for their input. Councilwoman Walsh suggested restricting parking only in the area where the line of sight would be obstructed from a vehicle entering the curve. Mr. Rutishauser explained that from an engineering perspective, the no-parking restriction needs to extend to where traffic is stabilized from turning movements and also to a point where pedestrians could remain comfortably against the curb while walking.   Mr. Rutishauser explained that the area coming off of Glen Avenue where the road splits and where there is a small traffic circle, is considered an intersection and parking is not permitted.

Councilman Hache noted that the main concern is safety. He felt that there is a potential need for a crossing guard in the area of Glen Avenue. Councilman Hache suggested painting jogging lanes along the roadway and to allow vehicles to park on the outside of these lanes on one side of the street. Mr. Rutishauser expressed a concern that the pedestrian comfort zone would not be wide enough. Councilman Hache agreed with restricting parking only to school drop-off and school pick-up times.

Mayor Knudsen asked that discussions continue on this issue to find a compromise. She emphasized that this is a safety initiative and urged everyone to remain civil and decent and kind.

A discussion was held on how the Village Councilmembers wished to proceed. Councilman Sedon pointed out that since half-day kindergarten will exist until the end of the school year, the current parking restrictions should remain in place. He suggested waiting until May to introduce an ordinance and waiting until June to vote on it. Mayor Knudsen referred to an e-mail she received from a resident, indicating that her street is absorbing all the traffic. Because of this situation, Mayor Knudsen suggested introducing an ordinance earlier and then deciding when to vote on it. Councilwoman Walsh spoke of the importance of parking regulations being consistent throughout the Village. Mayor Knudsen suggested restricting parking at all times beginning at the intersection for a distance of 50’, and restricting parking only during school drop-off and pick-up times from that point until the 500’ point delineated by Mr. Rutishauser.

                        2.)        Train Station Parking Lot

Mayor Knudsen shared an idea to reduce two existing grassy areas in the train station lot to allow for the addition of approximately 30-40 centrally located parking spaces. Trees along this area are dead and drainage would not be effected. Councilman Voigt felt this would be a good idea and he asked Mr. Rutishauser to determine costs and a time table. Councilman Sedon also agreed. Councilwoman Walsh noted that the speed of vehicles coming down Wilsey Square and the flow of traffic may be the biggest challenge. Mayor Knudsen noted that reserve angle parking could be implemented in this area. Councilwoman Walsh stated that she liked the grass median and she was concerned with the reduction of green space. Mayor Knudsen said the area is wide enough to still maintain a green area. Mr. Rutishauser stated that he will first check to see if there are any implications from the State Historic Preservation Office.

3.)        Pomander Walk

Mayor Knudsen referred to a packet the Councilmembers received from residents Alyson McCormack and Chris Reid requesting to either rescind Ordinance #3556 or to suspend the parking restriction on one side of the street in the interim.

Councilman Sedon stated that he was in favor of the original ordinance because it took so long and the people living on Pomander Walk went through the process. However, he was willing to revisit the issue, noting that there have been problems on surrounding streets. Councilman Sedon was in favor of one-side-of-the-street parking.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, CSAC Chairman, Charlie DeMarco explained that in March, 2016 the Pomander Walk issue was brought before the committee. At that time, the residents reported problems with accessing and exiting their driveways; safe passage on the street; circulation of vehicles on the dead-end street; emergency access; snow and leaf removal; and minor car accidents. These concerns were referred to the Ridgewood Police Department and the Engineer’s Office for further study. Mr. DeMarco noted that at that time, the existing regulation was for two-hour parking. It is very difficult for the Police Department to enforce this regulation as they must visit the area constantly. To address their operational and safety concerns, the residents of Pomander Walk requested that parking be restricted on their street for most of the day.

Mr. Rutishauser added that he sent out a poll of the residents on this issue. Most of the residents responded and they were unanimously in favor of tighter restrictions to address what they perceived to be safety and operational problems.

Mayor Knudsen noted that restricting parking on one street can create or exacerbate parking problems on neighboring streets. There is a pedestrian issue, as well. As with anything in the community, we must share the burden as well as share the benefit.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Rutishauser stated that he has received two traffic study proposals, which he will review and report his recommendations to Ms. Mailander for presentation to the Village Council. Ms. Mailander stated that this report should be available for the April 5^th meeting. She noted that a new ordinance would be needed to suspend parking on one side of the street and this would not go into effect until June, 2017.

Councilman Voigt spoke of the importance of obtaining a very good understanding of what is occurring in this area from both a parking supply standpoint and a parking demand standpoint. A determination must be made as to where there are gaps, as well as where there is a possibility of putting either employees, patrons or commuters in places that are less obtrusive. Councilman Voigt cautioned against making changes in one area that will create problems in another. He offered to speak to residents in an effort to truly understand the parking issues in the area.

Noting that there are parking enforcement issues throughout the Village, Councilwoman Walsh felt it was important to identify the safety concerns that led to all the parking restriction issues in the Village. She felt that a traffic study would identify some of the concerns, but not all of them.

Mayor Knudson noted that the RFP contemplates only the current parking regulations. This would mean that the study would not consider parking on Pomander Walk. Mr. Rutishauser explained that the consultant may recommend changes to Pomander Walk, as well as other streets. He also understood that some of the dynamics of the area will be changing, as now there will be a tenant in the Red Cross Building. This may create additional demands on traffic and parking.

Councilman Hache felt a traffic study is needed for this area. He pointed out that the entire area experiences traffic problems whenever there is construction work within the intersections, particularly because George Washington School is located in this area. Some of streets have dangerous corners and tall hedges that impede pedestrian safety. Councilman Hache was also concerned with limiting parking, with so few parking spaces available.

Mayor Knudsen pointed out that on-street parking is needed in residential areas to accommodate visitors and service vehicles. Mayor Knudsen referred to documentation submitted by residents to support their requests for no parking along Pomander Walk. Upon review of this documentation, Mayor Knudsen did not feel any of the issues presented required such a restrictive approach. She felt that, at some point, the Village Council shouldn’t wait for a study to be conducted before offering residents some relief.

Mr. DeMarco explained that the CSAC has a policy not to discuss complaints from residents regarding someone parking in front of their house. Safety and operational issues are discussed and referred to the Police Department and the Engineering Department for recommendations and then forwarded to the Village Council. He agreed with Councilman Voigt’s statement that if there were more parking spaces available within the Village, there would be less parking on residential streets. Mr. DeMarco stated that he was in favor of “quick fixes” on streets such as Sherman Place, so safety issues are addressed in a timely manner.

It was the consensus of the Village Council to introduce an ordinance creating one-side-of-the-street parking on Pomander Walk. The ordinance will be introduced at the public hearing scheduled for April 12^th.

1. Operations

                        1.)        Citizens Safety Advisory Committee - Standardized Form for                                        Requesting Parking Changes

Mayor Knudsen explained that during her “Meet the Mayor Session”, a conversation with a resident and a member of the CSAC resulted in an idea to create a standardized form for requesting parking changes.

Mayor Knudsen called the Councilmembers attention to a draft copy of the proposed form. The form will serve as a “traveling file” documenting information from everyone involved in the process. The form identifies the name and contact information of the person making the request and includes the substantiated existing safety issues; any supporting documents such as police reports; current conditions; a copy of the current ordinance; a copy of the new ordinance; what other less restrictive traffic calming ideas were implemented beforehand; and comments from the School Safety Committee, Engineering Department, Police Department and CSAC.

Mayor Knudsen pointed out that the form would also require the names of everyone who was notified and the method of this notification. Even though legal notifications are always published, Mayor Knudsen felt that a better job of notification is needed at the early stages of the conversation.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mayor Knudsen said that this form would be given to the Village Councilmembers for their review when the discussion is placed on the agenda. It will not only help them identify the people impacted, but any potential impact on other people if a change is made.

Councilman Voigt liked this idea. Under his questioning, Mayor Knudsen explained that the form would initially be given to a person when they present their concerns before CSAC. She noted that there is a representative of the Police Department on CSAC who could then take the form and attach any supporting documents concerning accident reports or complaints. A discussion followed on who would take responsibility for storing and updating the file. It was noted that it could be on-line. Councilman Sedon felt it was important to get input from CSAC members. Councilman Hache felt the form would represent a “living, breathing document” which the Councilmembers could use to learn how the issue evolved through the process.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Village Attorney Matthew Rogers explained that Ridgewood always satisfies the legal requirements for notification. The Village also goes beyond the legal requirements of notification by using outlets such as Facebook and the Village website. Mr. Rogers suggested that sub-committees such as CSAC discuss the best ways to get the word out about what they do and when they meet, so people can have the opportunity to voice their concerns. He suggested relying on a particular member of the community to spread the word.

Mr. DeMarco felt that the description of the safety issue should not be the burden of the resident. He felt the draft form has terms that the general public would not understand. He wanted to give more thought to the CSAC comment and position section, as he didn’t understand what the Village Council would do with this information. He suggested utilizing this form closer to the introduction of an ordinance. Mayor Knudsen explained that this draft form reflects information the Village Council could use to avoid future controversies, as well as ensuring that residents do not feel left out, not part of the conversation, or ignored.

1. Budget

                        1.)        Partial Donation - Portable Fuel Cell Trailer - Parks & Recreation

Ms. Mailander explained that the portable fuel cell trailer will be used to transport diesel fuel on the back of a pick-up truck. The current trailer is rusted out. The trailer is used to refuel the portable light towers, the generator at the Northwest Bergen Central Dispatch Emergency Services, as well as other various pieces of equipment owned by the Village. Maroons Soccer Association, Ridgewood Soccer Association, and Ridgewood Junior Football Association will donate $3,050 towards this purchase. The Parks and Recreation Department will be responsible for the remainder of $2,428.00, for a total price of $5,478.00.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Ms. Mailander explained that the sports groups made donations because they use the portable light towers. The fuel cell trailer will be used by the Village for other purposes.

                        2.)        Partial Release of Cash Bond

Ms. Mailander explained that the Village has received a request to release $33,216 of a $37,970 cash bond held for JP Development, Inc. The two-lot subdivision at 143 and 147 West Glen Avenue is substantially complete. The first house is sold. The remainder of the bond will be released when the second house is sold.

                        3.)        Award of Contract - Conduit Installation for Traffic Signals Upgrades

Ms. Mailander explained that the Traffic and Signal Division has been planning several upgrades and repairs to two traffic signals in the Village. One light is at Maple Avenue and East Ridgewood Avenue. The second light is at South Maple Avenue and Prospect Street. The work requires trenching across the intersection and installing conduit through which wires can be pulled. Three quotes were received. The lowest quote was from ConQuest Construction in the amount of $25,325 and it is in the Capital Account.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Rutishauser explained that the upgrade includes moving an overhead wire underground, as required by Code, at the light located at South Maple Avenue and Prospect Street, and the relocation of a signal control box on East Ridgewood Avenue and Maple Avenue because it is too close to Jersey Mikes and the ramp. As funds become available, the actuated lights will be upgraded, bulbs will be replaced, and pedestrian countdowns will be added at critical locations.

            4.)        Award of Two Year Contract - Disposal of Recyclables

Ms. Mailander explained that the recycling market has gone down, and the Village’s revenues have decreased. The current contract gives the Village a $60 floor price for corrugated; a $60 floor price for paper; and a $25 floor price for commingled. The new contract gives the Village a $40.00 floor price for corrugated; a $35 floor price for paper; and a -$10 floor price for commingled. The two proposal received were from Atlantic Coast Fibers and Waste Management and both came in with the exact same offer. The Village has had a very good working relationship with Atlantic Coast Fibers and the recommendation is to continue doing business with them.

Ms. Mailander stated that the contract is a two-year contract with three, one-year options. The worst case scenario would represent an annual revenue of $74,483; a reduction of $115,177. This reduction in revenue would need to be made up elsewhere in the budget.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Ms. Mailander stated that the plastic food containers continue to be non-recyclable.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Ms. Mailander stated that the Village can only anticipate revenue by what is received, but in this case the revenue will probably be anticipated because it is reduced.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Ms. Mailander did not feel the cost for commingled recyclables would change if someone separated them since the market is in China and they have become very particular to what they will accept.

            5.)        Shared Services - Wood Ridge Pistol Range

Ms. Mailander explained that this is a shared services agreement to use the Wood Ridge Police Range for an annual fee of $150.00 per officer or retired officer on the roster, payable by May 1^st of each year. Ridgewood would supply their own targets and ammunition. The Village would also obtain insurance coverage naming Wood Ridge as “Other Insured” and each municipality would have a Hold Harmless Agreement for the other. The Wood Ridge Police Range has the standards required for the Ridgewood Police Department to conduct their mandatory annual firearms qualifications.

1. Policy

            1.)        Respect, Give It to Get It Campaign

Jan Phillips, a member of The Community Relations Advisory Board of Ridgewood and Glen Rock (CRAB), explained that the mission of this board is to encourage a welcoming, inclusive, and sensitive approach to the challenges of a multi-cultural society. Their mission includes the development of programs that promote intercultural communication and understanding through programs, dialogues, and campaigns, and to provide support to victims of bias-related crimes, encouraging them to support such incidents. Their vision is a society built on lives of dignity and self-respect. Attenders and members are from both Ridgewood and Glen Rock and include teachers, students, parents, clergy, police officers, school board members, mental health professionals, members of the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Celebration Committee, Bergen Community College, the Ridgewood Indian Association and the Student Gay-Straight Alliance. The youngest member is 13 years old and the oldest member is 90. CRAB was formed in the 1990’s following a racial incident at the border of Ridgewood and Glen Rock.

Several years ago, CRAB developed the “Respect, Give It to Get It Campaign”. CRAB holds the belief that basic respect is the common ground of a healthy community, the stepping blocks toward trust, and a cornerstone to civility. CRAB used a consensus to create a poster that high school students in Glen Rock and Ridgewood distributed throughout schools, houses of worship, retail businesses and offices. The campaign was expanded to reach out to victims who might be intimated due to their immigration status. The campaign included a series of six dialogues regarding civility, and Ridgewood became the first municipality in New Jersey to embrace the Upstander Campaign.   CRAB and the Ridgewood Village Council united on the notion that inclusion and respect are community values, as evidenced by the flying of the rainbow flag, representing gay rights and straight allies, for 24 hours in support of the people killed in the Orlando, Florida nightclub shooting on June 12, 2016.

On behalf of CRAB, Ms. Phillips asked for the rainbow flag to be flown again at Village Hall from June 1^st until June 30^th.   This request is supported by the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce, the Ridgewood Guild, the Clemente Foundation, Joan and Joe Clemente, Garden State Equality, the New Jersey Gay Chamber of Commerce, and the Bergen County LGBTQ Advisory Board to the Bergen County Freeholders.

Ms. Phillips stated that CRAB will meet again on April 19^th with their sponsors to promote this kind of symbolic support for inclusion and would like the support of the Village Council.

            2.)        Ridgecrest - Graydon Pricing         

Mayor Knudsen stated that Sue Ulrich from Ridgecrest Apartments raised the question of making available some free days to senior citizens who otherwise couldn’t afford to attend Graydon Pool in the summer. Mayor Knudsen felt this was a great idea.

Councilman Hache pointed out that this idea was raised by a 12-year-old resident while doing his Mitzvah project. The project produced other suggestions such as having a “Graydon Day” for Seniors, which would include lunch at the Waterside Café, or a picnic. Councilman Hache felt the idea would be great for the community and he suggested doing it for more than one day.

Councilwoman Walsh agreed that this is a great idea that shows support for Seniors.

Ms. Mailander stated that she will contact Nancy Bigos, Assistant Director of Recreation, Tim Cronin, Director of Parks and Recreation, and Ms. Ulrich to get all the details needed to prepare a memorializing resolution and report back to the Village Council.

            3.)        Schedler Park Plans

Councilman Sedon felt that the current Village Council is not in agreement with the development of the Schedler Property as detailed in Resolution #15-257. He recommended repealing Resolution #15-257 and for the Village Council to work with the Parks and Recreation Department to come up with a new plan and a new resolution.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Councilman Sedon explained that the new resolution would be completely different. From the time the Schedler Property was purchased in 2008-2009 to the adoption of Resolution #15-257 in 2015, there was no official resolution, description or memorialization concerning its development. It does not make sense to retain this resolution while a new plan is being put together.

Mayor Knudsen pointed out that there is matching grant money available for clean-up and that a sound study has been completed.  

Mayor Knudsen felt the plan should be more community oriented. She referred to an article given to her by Board of Trustee, Sheila Brogan, that described community oriented parks that accommodate everyone in a natural setting, from youngsters to senior citizens, with amenities such as walking paths, tai chi platforms, and playgrounds.

Councilman Hache suggested forming an ad hoc committee to help incorporate the view of the community. Mayor Knudsen agreed.

Ms. Mailander recalled that when Habernickel Park was formed, it involved the Parks and Recreation Department in conjunction with the Open Space Committee and the Fields Committee. This group could work with any residents’ committees that may also exist. Ms. Mailander stated that this dynamic will be worked out within the next week or so.

Mr. Rogers will draft a resolution repealing Resolution #15-257.

1. Operations

                        1.)        Kings Pond Area Cleaning Program

Ms. Mailander stated that the Village is very fortunate to have volunteers from the Ridgewood Wildscape Association clean-up various areas in the Village. These volunteers have offered to clean the Kings Pond area on Sunday, April 30, 2017 between 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. This type of community involvement assists with the Village’s storm water protection program. The Village will provide personal protective equipment for the volunteers including chest waders, gloves, rakes, and hand tools. The Village will also pick-up and dispose of accumulated debris. Additional volunteers are welcome.

                        2.)        Village Traffic Consultant

Mayor Knudsen stated that there have been two responses back from the RFP for this extensive study. She recommended going out for a Request for Qualification (RFQ) to appoint the same traffic consultant used by the Ridgewood Planning Board, John Jahr, as a traffic consultant.

6. MANAGER’S REPORT

Budget Meetings - Ms. Mailander reminder everyone that the final budget meeting will be held on Monday, March 27^th at 5:30 p.m. in the Courtroom. The agenda will include discussions on the Capital Budget, final questions on any of the other budgets, staffing, and revenue. Scenarios will be presented to the Village Council to choose which one they would like to proceed with.

Snow Removal - Ms. Mailander spoke about the recent snow storm. Ms. Mailander praised the Village Staff, many of whom worked 12 hour shifts removing snow and laying down salt. Snow removal work was conducted in the Central Business District for two nights from 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. Ms. Mailander will have figures on cost and the amount of snow moved available at the April 15^th meet. Ms. Mailander thanked the residents who stayed off the road on the day of the storm and the businesses who removed snow and ice from their sidewalks. She also thanked the residents for bringing their garbage to the end of their driveways and noted that rear yard garbage pick-up should begin again on Monday.

PSE&G Electrical Upgrade Project - Ms. Mailander stated that his project continues. The contractor will be finished tomorrow and all the roads should be leveled with temporary patch. A start date for the cable pull work should be available next week. Once the temporary patch has settled, in about 60-90 days, paving can begin (around July/August). For the most part, two-way traffic has been maintained through the entire project.

NJ Transit’s Construction Project - Ms. Mailander stated that NJ Transit will be working on the final piece of the original train station ADA project, reroofing the historic kiosk, at no cost to the Village. The start has been delayed until later this week or next week and will last for approximately 6 weeks. The stair kiosk to and from the pedestrian underpass at the Ridgewood Train Station between East Ridgewood Avenue, Wesley Square, and West Ridgewood Avenue will be closed temporarily for repair work. This will require the blocking-off of some parking spaces on the east and west sides of the train tracks. The ramps to the south that serve the pedestrian underpass and the elevator located at the north end will remain open during this time. The closure is necessary to accommodate roof replacement restoration on the two, end point roof structures over the staircases that serve the pedestrian underpass. For safety reasons, the public was urged to follow directional signs and not to travel through barricaded areas.

Shred Day - Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that Shred Day will be held on Saturday, April 1^st from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. rain or shine at the Recycling Center behind the Fire Headquarters. Shredding is free to all Ridgewood residents. Items may be placed in paper bags or cardboard boxes. Plastic bags are not accepted. Residents may watch their documents being shredded on camera, as they are securely shredded. Items accepted are cancelled checks, computer printouts, copy paper (all colors), and envelopes. Binders, plastics, overnight shipping envelopes, photos, carbon paper, or non-paper items are not accepted.

Mayor Knudsen thanked the PSE&G contact person, Rosalie Serapiglia, for her constant communication with the Village and keeping everyone informed with weekly updates. This was especially helpful for the businesses located in the CBD.

Mayor Knudsen also thanked Ms. Mailander and the Village Staff for their dedication during the recent snowstorm. She also thanked the residents for their cooperation.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Ms. Mailander confirmed that all department heads will be present for questions at the March 27^th budget meeting.

7. COUNCIL REPORTS

Open Space Committee - Councilman Voigt reported that the Open Space Committee held a meeting on March 16^th. The members prepared an open space survey for use in updating the Master Plan. The survey will be sent out next week to 1,000 households selected at random for the purpose of gathering data on the residents’ use and future development of open space. Although the survey document will be mailed, residents are requested to complete the survey on-line. It is anticipated that 400+ replies will be received. The information will be used with any updates to the Open Space portion of the Master Plan.

Planning Board - Councilman Voigt reported that the Planning Board met on March 21^st. The Planning Board heard a traffic analysis presentation from KS Broad (the Ken Smith lot) on the corner of Broad Street and Franklin Avenue. Several issues were raised; one of which was how to handle the Franklin/Broad intersection and the dire need for updated traffic lights at that particular intersection.   The Planning Board is looking at timed and actuated traffic lights. Concerns were also expressed with the Franklin/Chestnut intersection as it relates to pedestrian traffic emanating from Chestnut Village and the KS Broad Development itself and how they get into town. A discussion was held on the potential need for an actuated traffic light on Franklin/Oak, as well. KS Broad will be summing up their presentation on April 18^th. A Planning Board vote on the site plan will be requested at that time.

Chestnut Village will be summing up their presentation on April 4^th and will be requesting a Planning Board vote on their site plan.

There are still some outstanding issues related to off-site improvements and the applicant’s fair share.

Library Board - Councilman Voigt stated that he attended an Authors Luncheon hosted by the Friends of the Library on March 15^th. He had the honor of sitting next to the author, Jamie Ford, who wrote “The Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet”.

Ridgewood Environmental Advisory Committee (REAC) - Councilman Sedon reported that REAC met on March 21^st. He reminded everyone that Earth Day will be held on April 23^rd in Van Neste Square Memorial Park from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in conjunction with the Ridgewood Conservancy for Public Lands. Activities include vendor tables, information tables, a dog parade, and a daffodil festival.   As part of achieving her Girl Scout Gold Star Award, a young Ridgewood resident, Celeste Walsh, will have a table at Earth Day looking for volunteer opportunities.

On March 29^th, REAC and Ridgewood Water will be holding a discussion in the Senior Lounge in Village Hall at 7:00 p.m.

Shade Tree Commission - Councilman Sedon reported that the Shade Tree Commission met on March 21^st. Discussions included advertising the Adopt-A-Tree Program. There will be a Tree Protection Ordinance that will go before the Planning Board for comment and then come before the Village Council on April 5^th. This ordinance requires the replanting of one tree for every healthy tree removed. In early April, members of the Shade Tree Commission will be picking up five hundred small trees (whips) from the State. Many of these whips will be used to populate the future tree nursery that will be located behind the trucks at the Recycling Center. DEP approval has been received to construct a temporary fence.

Ridgewood Arts Council - Councilwoman Walsh stated that the Ridgewood Arts Council’s Augmented Reality will be held on April 23^rd. Flyers have been printed and will be distributed around town. Councilwoman Walsh described the project as being similar to Pokémon Go, which will use a downloaded app.

Field Committee - Councilman Hache stated there will be an RHS Alumni Event celebrating the 125^th Anniversary of Ridgewood High School on Friday, May 19^th with a rain date of May 20^th on Upper Vets Field. This is a community-wide event and all are welcome. There will be a DJ, auctioneer, food and adult refreshments. Space is limited. Tickets will go on sale in April and may be purchased online at rhsalumniassociation.org.

Approval has been received to use the Orchard School Field for the Holi Celebration on April 22^nd with a rain date of April 23^rd.  The Holi Celebration has a cultural significance among various Hindu traditions. It is a festive day to end conflicts, a day to forgive, and a day to forget. The day will include a ritual where people smear each other with colored paint and there is singing and dancing.

The Field Committee held a series of meetings regarding the Maple Field turf. Recently, this type of turf was found to be faulty. It did not hold up as represented and contained a hard surface that created a higher risk for concussion. The turf at Maple Field was installed 12 years ago and the warranty ran out 4 years ago. The manufacturer was contacted and the company came back with a proposal that significantly reduced the $600,000+ replacement cost.

The Field Committee will meet again on Tuesday, April 4^th at 7:30 p.m. at the Stable.

Parks Recreation and Conservation Board (PRC) - Councilman Hache reported that the next meeting will be held on Tuesday, March 28^th.

Councilman Hache stated that he had the honor and privilege of attending the funeral service for Marion Kortjohn, a longtime Ridgewood resident. Ms. Kortjohn passed away on March 12^th just three months’ shy of her 102^nd birthday. Ms. Kortjohn was a remarkable woman.

Mayor Knudsen complimented the organizers of the Library Author Luncheon for doing a wonderful job under adverse conditions, since the event was held the day after the snow storm. Mayor Knudsen enjoyed listening to and speaking with the author, Jamie Ford. She highly recommended his book, “The Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet”.

Fourth of July Committee - Mayor Knudsen reported that the Fourth of July Committee met last week. The theme this year is “Those Who Serve”, which includes anyone who serves the community, state or nation.   A grand marshal has been chosen and there will be a very special speaker during the morning Flag Raising at Wilsey Square.

Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) - Mayor Knudsen stated that HPC met last Thursday. The Office Bar and Grill will be getting a beautiful new facade and the details are currently being worked out.

Mayor Knudsen stated that she participated this morning in “Mayors for Meals”, sponsored by Community Meals, Inc., and Meals on Wheels. The mayors delivered meals to senior citizens who otherwise couldn’t get out. Working with Jack Egan, Mayor Knudsen delivered meals to residents of Ridgewood and Ho-Ho-Kus and enjoyed visiting with each client. Mayor Knudsen pointed out that funding for programs such as Meals on Wheels is down and that Community Meals, Inc. relies strictly on donations. If anyone wishes to donate either time or money, they can go to communitymealsinc.org for more information.

8. PUBLIC COMMENTS

Chris Reid, 112 Stanley Place, referred to documents obtained through the Open Public Records Act (OPRA) and read the following e-mailed response from Mr. DeMarco to a question from the then Village Manager Roberta Sonenfeld as follows: “The Pomander item is in the CSAC Minutes of March 17^th, April 21^st, and May 19^th. I will forward these minutes to you in a few minutes. I can fill you in more if needed. Councilman Sedon was at each of these meetings and many residents from Pomander and Sherman have attended different meetings. In the May 19^th minutes, reference is made to the background on Pomander which I provided. Briefly, the CSAC is interested in safety and operational issues addressed by Police, Engineering, and/or Council actions. Simply objecting to someone parking on your street or in front of your house does not qualify. The Pomander residents reported blocked driveway access and fender benders, operational issues with all-day parking related to snow removal and leaf collections, and U-turns by errant drivers both in driveways, mid-block and in the cul-de-sac, etc. The offer for more time-limit parking enforcement was not well received. The residents suggested the no parking rule and strongly supported its adoption despite understanding and acknowledging that the rule would also apply to service vehicles, visitors and residents. As I recall, Chris’ poll showed strong support for the ban including the long duration and the No U-turn Ordinance.”

Mr. Reid referred to a police report concerning accidents on Pomander Walk, which revealed that there was only one in the driveway of a resident and it did not involve any parking or vehicles on the street.

Mr. Reid referred to a document from Eileen Young of the Village Clerk’s Office in response to a request for information on whether or not there was a study done. Mr. Reid read from this document, as follows: “In response to your OPRA request regarding a Pomander Walk study, we have no documents to provide. There was no formal study performed. A survey was performed due to numerous concerns and as a result, upon advisement from the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee, an ordinance was enacted.” Mr. Reid stated that the CSAC did not necessarily recommend no parking; they referred that the residents of Pomander said, “we want no parking”.

Gail Conenello, 23 Garfield Place, thanked the Village Council for agreeing to put a proposal for one-side-of-the-street parking on Pomander Walk on its agenda for the next meeting. Ms. Conenello asked for consistency and compromise, noting that these considerations were made in discussions concerning a similar situation on Bogert Avenue and Cambridge Road. Ms. Conenello did not feel the current parking restriction on Pomander Walk addressed issues such as snow removal or emergency vehicle access, since parking is only restricted for 12 hours per day. One-side-of-the-street parking or a two-hour parking restriction would address these issues.

Ms. Conenello stated that while she hoped the traffic study would resolve issues within the Village, especially in the area near George Washington Middle School, she did not feel the Village Council needed to wait for that study to allow some type of compromise to occur on Pomander Walk now.

Peter Quinn, 66 Pomander Walk, expressed his disappointment that the residents have not been able to come together and talk about this issue. He personally felt that the residents of Pomander Walk were being slandered. He agreed that the issue was a systemic issue that must be reviewed. Mr. Quinn pointed out that this is the third time the Village Council has brought this issue to a ote. Mr. Quinn stated that over the 5½ years that this issue has been discussed, the residents of Pomander Walk have suggested options that were unsuccessful, such as increasing police enforcement or asking business owners to prohibit their employees parking on Pomander Walk. Mr. Reid suggested that zoning changes in the CBD may be one solution.

Mr. Reid stated that both he and his children were almost hit by cars multiple times, but did not file a police report. He felt that the standardized form proposed by Mayor Knudsen may be appropriate in capturing information. He did not feel the Village Council should take action based only on information provided by neighboring residents and before a traffic study is conducted. Mr. Reid stated that he was not given the courtesy to review the information submitted by the nearby residents. He objected to the Village Council moving forward in reconsidering the no parking restriction on Pomander Walk without having looked at the systemic issue. The safety measures on Sherman Place should be allowed to take effect before any changes are made.

Mayor Knudsen pointed out that the information presented by the surrounding residents is considered a document that was provided for review by the Village Council; it is not considered as evidence. To her knowledge, there is nothing in the documents pertaining to anyone personally, nor would the Village Council tolerate this.

Councilman Voigt felt that many of the issues could be solved if residents from Pomander Walk and Sherman Place came together and just talked. He urged residents to start the process by just meeting over a cup of coffee.

Jane Remis, 118 Madison Place, felt that a traffic study would identify the best ways to keep the Village safe. Ms. Remis also approved of the standardized form suggested by Mayor Knudsen because it keeps safety at the forefront. She felt that the public notifications in place were sufficient and that it would be very difficult to determine parameters for additional notifications. Ms. Remis pointed out that it is common for people to only look for evidence that supports their position, unlike a police investigation. Ms. Remis suggested asking residents to fully research a concern before coming to a CSAC meeting, as this information may help them to understand situations better and would expedite the proceedings.

Melanie McWilliams, 431 Bogert Avenue, asked for an explanation of the actions being proposed by the Village Council concerning Bogert Avenue and Cambridge Road. Mayor Knudsen explained that the proposal is to restrict parking at all times for an additional 50’ beginning at the circular intersection for a distance, and restricting parking only during school drop-off and pick-up times from that point until the 500’ point delineated by Mr. Rutishauser. Ms. McWilliams urged the Village Councilmembers to visit the area and observe the safety hazards, particularly where her house and her neighbors house are located. Shrubbery and fencing located around the loop impede pedestrians from walking in this area. Since this shrubbery and fencing are permitted to stay because they are exempt under the grandfather clause, there is no other solution than to eliminate parking into the curbs to avoid what she described as a massive safety issue. Ms. McWilliams urged the Village Council to leave the ordinance as it stands or install sidewalks because there is no other safe alternative.

Alyson McCormack, 51 Sherman Place, felt it was amazing that the oneness is being placed on the residents of Sherman Place to speak directly with their neighbor when they were never considered before the ordinance was put into effect. The CSAC notes do not indicate a desire to compromise. Ms. McCormack stated that a meeting could only be held if the neighbors consider putting parking back on the street. She urged the Village Council to undo the ordinance.

Kathryn Schmidt, 123 South Irving Street, told the Village Council that she was happy that the parking issue was placed back on the agenda, especially the parking garage. Based on the meetings she has attended in the past, residents, commuters, and business people all agree that more parking spaces are needed.

In response to this evening’s presentation by Mr. Lahey, Ms. Schmidt stated that she agreed that the lack of parking effects the vibrancy and the reputation of the Village, which is very important. She questioned why the presentation didn’t take newer garage designs into consideration. Ms. Schmidt spoke of the importance of good communication between everyone on the Village Staff, Village Committees and Village Council to ensure that information like this is shared. She thanked the FAC for their hard work on the presentation.

Jim McCarthy, 153 Hope Street, referred to this evening’s closed session agenda item related to labor negotiations. He felt it was very difficult to manage labor relations and rates when all the contracts are staggered. A capped or reduced rate increase would be prevented structurally because none of the bargaining units want to go first. He urged the Village Council not to stagger related contracts, which will make them more equitable and increase accuracy with economic forecasts.

Concerning the parking garage, Mr. McCarthy didn’t understand why discussions were centering around a 350 space garage when a 250-270 space garage is under consideration. Mr. McCarthy stated that every parking space loses money, so the bigger the garage, the greater the absolute dollar deficit that needs to be funded from elsewhere. He stated that he was skeptical of the prospect of going up a level to accommodate retail, and that he wanted to see the smallest 270 space garage as possible. Mr. McCarthy stated that he was in favor of a parking garage; however, he urged caution in considering the garage to be guaranteed self-sustaining, when the possibility exists that it may not be in certain years. He thanked the Village Council for their work.

Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, commented on the parking garage presentation. He questioned the accuracy of the “executive summary” which indicated that the Ridgewood Parking Utility currently operates with a continual, annual surplus of approximately $500,000. He also questioned why the study was based on a 350 space garage, when a smaller garage is currently under consideration by the Village Council.   He expressed a concern that the FAC is not in sync with the Village Council or current information. Mr. Loving expressed a concern with the statement indicating that funding for the garage would be through new sources including extended hours and meaningful rate increase. He recalled that the last time the hours were extended, the restaurant community objected strenuously fearing they would lose customers who didn’t want to worry about feeding the meter during dinner. Other businesses would also be negatively affected with the parking hours beginning at 9:00 a.m. instead of 10:00 a.m.   Mr. Loving urged the Village Council to consider this issue very carefully. Mr. Loving disagreed with the proposal to add retail, noting the existence of vacant retail space and the competition this would create between the Village and private business owners. He preferred to have the area proposed for retail to be devoted to more parking spaces.

John Saraceno, 17 Coventry Court, felt that based on economics, this is not the time to consider adding retail as a way to support the parking garage. He felt it would be difficult for the Village to compete against private owners. He noted that the Village could remove themselves as landlords by selling units; however, he did not feel this would generate a lot of interest. He congratulated the FAC for trying to find ways to make the garage self-sustaining, but he didn’t feel this was achievable. Sometimes a community must build an infrastructure that is not self-sufficient but is considered an investment in the community. Mr. Saraceno also felt the retail and restaurant owners would object to the extension of hours. A decision must be reached based on many factors including financial support, size, and the needs and wants of the public.

9. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION

Deputy Village Clerk Donna Jackson read Resolution #17-83 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 Sedon, seconded by Councilman Hache, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Work Session was adjourned at 11:44 p.m.

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                                                                                                                     Susan Knudsen      

                                                                                                                           Mayor

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            Donna M. Jackson

        Deputy Village Clerk