20170301 - 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 MARCH 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.

Peter Bennett, 448 Cambridge Road, requested that the Village Council revisit the recently passed Ordinance #3563, which prohibits parking during school hours on Cambridge Road and Bogert Road for a distance of 500’ up from East Glen Avenue. Mr. Bennett felt this ordinance solved a problem that didn’t exist. Mr. Bennett displayed a photograph of the neighborhood and acknowledged that there is a potential safety issue with vehicles parked in what he described as the “funnel”, as these vehicles tend to block the road. On the opposite side of the road, parking is prohibited within 50’ feet of the stop sign.   Mr. Bennett suggested amending the ordinance to read a distance of 50’ and extending the yellow line so drivers are aware that they must go around the island.

Mr. Bennett felt that the ordinance will reduce property values, as it prohibits parking in front of homes on the street. Mr. Bennett felt that Ordinance #3563 was put into place without any input from the vast majority of the neighborhood.

Mr. Bennett displayed a chart which contained red “x’s” over the houses of residents requesting the repeal of Ordinance #3563. Mr. Bennett explained that the owners of the houses without “x’s” were not contacted. At the request of Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Bennett will e-mail the Mayor a copy of this chart.

Erin Taddei, 419 Bogert Avenue, stated that over the 19 years she and her husband and sons have lived at this address there have never been safety issues with either her sons playing in the street or walking to and from Travell School. Ms. Taddei noted that Travell School does not have a parking lot and there has never been a problem with vehicles belonging to students, parents, or caregivers parking along the street. Ms. Taddei stated that she only found out about the parking restrictions when the sign was placed in front of her property. A few days later, she received a ticket for parking in front of her home. Ms. Taddei found the language and placement of the signs confusing, noting that the sign indicates, “No Stopping or Standing”; it does not indicate “No Parking”.

Ms. Taddei stated that on February 16^th, the Ridgewood Police Department gave her permission to allow guests attending a ladies lunch she was sponsoring at her home to park in front of her house, with the understanding that they would be gone before 2:30 p.m. At 1:30 p.m., Ms. Taddei received a phone call from the Ridgewood Police Department advising her that the parking privileges were being rescinded and her guests’ vehicles needed to be removed. Ms. Taddei described the parking restrictions as excessive and burdensome to the residents. She felt that she was never given an opportunity to make her opinion known. Ms. Taddei expressed a concern that restricting the parking in front of the homes would have a negative impact on property values.

Ms. Taddei said that she was told by neighbors that letters were placed on car windshields by someone who served on the Safety Board. These letters indicated that this person did not agree with residents parking their vehicles in front of their homes. Ms. Taddei offered to share more information on this matter at a less public forum.

John Morgan, 414 Bogert Avenue, identified himself as a former police officer, who was very sensitive to safety issues, particularly as they pertain to children. Mr. Morgan asked for an explanation of the facts that led to the decision regarding Ordinance #3563. Mr. Morgan stated that he had never observed any safety issues in the 23 years he has lived on Bogert Avenue. He noted that, even with the parking restrictions, children walk in the roadway in the area of 410 Bogert, so he didn’t understand what the restrictions were accomplishing.

Jeanette LaRocca, 454 Bogert Avenue, stated that she has lived on Bogert Avenue for almost 29 years. Ms. LaRocca agreed that parking should be restricted at the corners of Bogert Avenue and Cambridge Road and close to the circle at E. Glen Avenue, because of visibility issues and the lack of sidewalks. However, she did not feel the signs should be as far down the street as they are. Ms. LaRocca was upset that these changes were made without notifying and surveying the neighbors. She felt the hours of the parking restrictions needed to be reduced and some of the signs needed to be removed, as they are unnecessary for the safety of the children.

Angele Morgan, 414 Bogert Avenue, described the neighborhood as family oriented, with a great concern for children’s safety. She objected to the parking restrictions being put in place without advance notification. Ms. Morgan described her driveway as long and narrow. Sometimes, the family’s vehicles need to be moved into the road to allow access to her home, especially when her elderly mother visits. Ms. Morgan was upset that letters were left on her family’s cars advising them that they could not park on the street, and she suggested that the reasons for the parking restrictions were more personal than safety oriented.

Bonnie Malajian, 428 Cambridge Road, spoke highly of her family-oriented neighborhood. She felt the parking restrictions currently in place were creating a burden, as visitors to her home must park five houses away. This is especially difficult during bad weather. She questioned why residents weren’t contacted before restrictions that impact the daily life of the neighborhood were put in place. She urged the Council to reconsider Ordinance #3563.

There were no further comments from the public at this time, and Mayor Knudsen closed the time for public comment.

Mayor Knudsen stated that the Village Councilmembers will discuss whether or not to place Ordinance #3563 on the March 22^nd meeting as a discussion item. Mayor Knudsen noted that the process to restrict parking started at the Travell Safety Committee and worked its way through the Village of Ridgewood Citizens Safety Advisory Committee, who made a recommendation to the Village Council. Whenever there is an ordinance change it is always properly and legally noticed, but Mayor Knudsen understood how this notice may have been overlooked by people living busy lives.

Councilman Sedon moved to suspend the Work Session and convene a Special Public Meeting. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                        Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:     None

3. SPECIAL PUBLIC MEETING - SEE SEPARATE MINUTES

Councilman Sedon moved to adjourn the special meeting and reconvene the Work Session. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                        Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:     None

4. DISCUSSION
5. Ridgewood Water

                        1.)        Award of Contract - Water Billing and Data Collection Services - Second Year

 

Village Manager Heather Mailander explained that this is the second year of a two-year bid. The sole bidder was Computil, Inc. out of Shelton, Connecticut and the amount is $237,395.

                        2.)        Proposed Ordinance - Water Emergencies

Ms. Mailander explained that this Proposed Ordinance revises/replaces Chapter 269, Article IV, Water Emergencies, for the purpose of water conservation. The revisions permanently restrict the irrigation of lawns and landscapes to two-days-per-week year-round, place further conditions on the use of water outside of structures, and extend restrictions to private wells.

Rich Calbi, Director of Operations, explained that this proposal has been in the process of being planned for about 18 months. Five out of the last ten years have seen water restrictions. The Proposed Ordinance will allow residents to still maintain beautiful lawns, while allowing the Water Utility to operate properly throughout the peak periods. The proposal is the result of meetings between the Water Utility, the four towns that it serves, Environmental Commissions, and members of other governing bodies. Mr. Calbi noted that the town of Glen Rock introduced and discussed a similar, Proposed Ordinance; however, Glen Rock residents felt this process should begin in Ridgewood, so the discussion stopped.

Mr. Calbi explained that the proposal permanently reduces the current three-days-per-week watering to two-days-per-week (designated Stage 2). He noted that on June 22, 2016, this restriction began and is still in effect because of the State Drought Emergency that is currently in force.   The restriction went through the peak water season and there was never a need to go beyond Stage 2. (Mr. Calbi noted that in 2015, Stage 4 was implemented.) The days when watering is restricted will allow for tanks to be filled up and put back in operation. The Proposed Ordinance will permit watering on odd or even days based on address. Governmental properties will be allowed to water on Mondays and Fridays.

Mr. Calbi explained that Ridgewood Water will be promoting better types of controls to their customers, such as the installation of rain sensors, and educating the public on new technologies, such as drip systems.  Ridgewood Water itself needs to undergo some rebuilding. There are several wells that are down due to contamination issues. In 1978, there were 61 wells in operation; today there are 34. Compared to surface water systems that have huge reservoirs, Ridgewood Water uses concrete and steel tanks that account for approximately 14 million gallons of stored water. The wells in operation peak at about 12 million gallons per day. Once demand goes beyond 12 million gallons, the water in storage begins to deplete.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Calbi explained that the other towns serviced by Ridgewood Water will need to adopt similar ordinances. Towns cannot enforce their laws upon other towns. There is the possibility that a customer town could decide not to enforce restrictions. The Village needs to be prepared for this occurrence, but Ridgewood must take the lead. Discussions, forums and events will be held to educate the public on the importance of water conservation.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Calbi explained that recommendations to the public will include the installation of a rain sensor; insuring that existing rain sensors are running properly; and installing a head, that can be retrofitted to any system, reducing water consumption by 30%, by spraying water out instead of up. Mr. Calbi noted that residents will not have to adhere to the restrictions if they install a “smart” controller that works off the weather, the soil type, plant type, grass type, or slope of the property. Some systems have soil sensors that detect moisture in the soil. Mr. Calbi noted that the town of Ho-Ho-Kus is under a two-day-a-week watering plan and it is working for them.

Councilman Sedon noted the importance of water conservation and he thanked Mr. Calbi for all his efforts on protecting this finite resource. Mr. Calbi thanked Councilman Sedon for his contributions to this effort through the Ridgewood Green Team and through the Ridgewood Environmental Advisory Committee (REAC). Mr. Calbi also thanked George Wolfson, the League of Women Voters, and members of the customer communities and their Environmental Commissions.

Under the request of Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Calbi explained how the water restrictions relate to fire safety. He described fire safety as the driving factor when water restrictions are initiated. The overall goal, besides making sure adequate water pressure and supply is being provided to the residents, is to ensure that there is enough reserve in the system in the case of a fire. Mr. Calbi pointed out that large facilities in the area, in particular Valley Hospital, would require millions of gallons per hour of water in the case of a fire. A house fire would consume a million gallons of water.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Calbi explained that all governmental properties, including Board of Education properties, will be allowed to water on Mondays and Fridays.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Calbi stated that irrigation shall not be conducted between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. on any day, as this is the hottest time of the day. After 6 p.m. and before 10 a.m., customers are permitted to water by hand. Automatic systems may only be used between 3 a.m. and 7 a.m. on the permissible day. Mr. Calbi understood that time restrictions were enforced in prior years, but removed when the current ordinance was adopted.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Calbi explained that fines for violations of the ordinance are applied locally. Each individual municipality would be required to have their own violation section. Mr. Calbi pointed out, however, that under Section 269-49, if an emergency is declared, the Water Utility does have the authority under State Law to shut water off for noncompliance.

Mayor Knudsen thanked Mr. Calbi for all his hard work and effort on this proposed ordinance revision.

3. Agreement to Exchange Geographical Information System Data with Bergen County

Ms. Mailander explained that Frank Del Vecchio, Director of the Division of Communications for the Bergen County Department of Public Safety, has requested a copy of the Ridgewood Water Digital System Mapping (GIS) in order to complete GIS mapping of the County. The data is utilized for public safety services, such as police, fire, rescue and EMS. In order to grant this exchange of information, the Village must enter into a data exchange agreement with the County. The intent of this agreement is to specify the sensitivity, ownership, maintenance, and use of the data.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Calbi stated that he will make sure that the agreement contains language that keeps the information secure and protected from hackers. He explained that there is sensitivity of information sections, which make the information unavailable to the general public and require parties to take reasonable steps to ensure that the data is protected from unauthorized use. Mr. Calbi will ask the County to provide a statement of the security they have in place.

On other issues, Mr. Calbi announced that Ridgewood Water is on Facebook. On March 29^th, REAC is sponsoring a forum. Speakers anticipated include Mike Furrey, President of the American Water Works Association, New Jersey Section, as well as irrigational professionals to talk about smart controls. On April 6^th, the League of Women Voters will be showing a movie called, “Flow for the Love of Water”, a 2008 documentary about the water crises. Dave Scheibner of the Water Utility will speak on comparing bottled water to tap water. Also on April 6^th, Mr. Calbi will be attending a Wyckoff Environmental Commission meeting where they will be presenting a film festival on the Highlands. Mr. Calbi will speak about conversation and contaminants. Mr. Calbi invited everyone to join him on April 23^rd, for Ridgewood Earth Day. There will be a big focus on water, with the theme “Ridgewood Water’s Journey: From Rain to Drain”. The Water Utility is in the process of promoting this event and is working on securing a public relations firm to run a big campaign, which will run weekly up to the event. Articles are proposed to be published on Facebook, Twitter and other media outlets and continue throughout the summer. On September 14^th, another League of Women Water Forum is tentatively scheduled to discuss contaminants and other issues facing the industry. On October 18^th, David Robinson, State Climatologist, will speak.

Mr. Calbi directed anyone interested in more information to search “Ridgewood Water” or click on the link off of the Village Website. Events will also be listed on the Facebook page.

1. Parking

None.

1. Budget

                        1.)        Budget Reserve Transfer

Ms. Mailander explained that this transfer is from the Mayor and Council Salaries and Wages Budget to the Zoning Board of Adjustment - OE Budget in the amount of $2,000 to cover additional legal fees required for additional cases brought before the Zoning Board.

                        2.)        Award of Professional Services Contract - Vehicle Parts & Service

Ms. Mailander explained that this is an annual resolution which lists the State Contract Vendors for Parts and Related Services

                        3.)        Award of Contract - Horticulture Supplies - Year One

Ms. Mailander explained that this is the first year of a two-year contract. Four bid packets were sent and two proposals were received. Only one proposal, from SiteOne Landscape Supply (formerly Shemin’s Nurseries), provided complete pricing. The recommendation is to award the bid to SiteOne Landscape Supply. The Village has had a very positive history with this vendor for many years.

            4.)        Award of Contract - Coach Bus Transportation Services

Ms. Mailander explained that this contract is for the supply of Coach Bus Transportation Services for the Ridgewood Seniors’ Club, Highlights in Leisure Time (H.I.L.T.), organized outings in 2017. Seven bid packets were picked-up and two bid proposals were received. The low bidder was Vanderhoof Transportation Company, which the Village has used in past years.

            5.)        Award of Contract - Graydon Pool Water’s Edge Café - Concession                                        Refreshment Service

Ms. Mailander explained that one proposal submission was received from Michael Sims, of Mellsworth Foods, Inc., located in Ramsey, New Jersey. Mr. Sims has serviced the Water’s Edge Café for the past two years and has provided excellent service with many patron compliments received. Mr. Sims has introduced some healthy options and different varieties of food. This is rental revenue and no funding is required.

1. Policy

            1.)        Proposed Ordinance - Facility Use and Rental Fee Updates

Ms. Mailander explained that in the past, the Stable at Maple Park did not have a set fee schedule for their various rooms. Proposed Rules and Regulations require advance notice, a hold harmless agreement, and two million dollars’ worth of insurance naming the Village as an additional insured. The use of the rooms and facilities shall be available to local Ridgewood organizations in accordance with the following order of priority:

Class A: Groups meeting under the sole jurisdiction of the Parks and Recreation Department and activities of “recognized group” by the Department of Parks and Recreation.

Class B: Official business meetings of Village municipal government agencies, Board of Education, boards and committees.

Class C: Local branches of clubs and group, both charitable and/or civic in nature.

Class D: All other groups, organizations or individuals.

Fees are based on the class of the various organizations and the time and days when the various organizations meet.

Ms. Mailander noted that the memorandum from the Department of Parks and Recreation provided information on the Community Center.   However, Ms. Mailander stated that more information is needed and the rules and regulations for the Community Center will be looked at separately.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Ms. Mailander stated that she will clarify whether an additional charge for nonresident usage should be added to Class E.

            2.)        Proposed Ordinance - Land Use and Redevelopment

Ms. Mailander explained that the recommended revisions are intended to delete duplicative or obsolete provisions in the Village Code; clarify the meaning and application of existing regulations; reconcile conflicting and/or inconsistent provisions in the Code; address various omissions in the Code; and provide for more reasonable and more rational development standards.

Mayor Knudsen explained that this Proposed Ordinance is the result of months of work by the Planning Board, whose members reviewed municipal land-based ordinances. Chapter 190 was revised and Chapter 251 was repealed, in recognition of changes over the years and in an effort to clarify language. Specific topics included fencing around pools, signage, the definitions of lot lines, and the definitions of deck, patio and porch.   

5. REVIEW OF MARCH 8, 2017 REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING AGENDA

Ms. Mailander stated that next week there will be three proclamations including Declare March Red Cross Month; Declare March Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month; and Declare March as DeMolay Month. There will be a Presentation of Certificates of Recognition to 2016 Boys Cross Country North 1, Group 4, State Sectional Champions.

The following ordinance for Ridgewood Water is scheduled for introduction: Amend Chapter 269 - Water Irrigation Schedule and Water Emergencies.

Resolutions for Ridgewood Water include: Title 59 Approval - Water Billing and Data Collection/Processing Services; Award Contract - Water Billing and Data Collection/Processing Services; and Authorize Agreement for GIS Data Exchange from Ridgewood Water to Bergen County for Use by Public Safety.

The following ordinances are scheduled for introduction: Establish Regulations for Facility Use and Rental Fees for the Lester Stable; and Repeal Chapter 29, Historic Preservation Commission, Amend Chapter 190, Land Use and Development, and Repeal Chapter 251, Swimming Pools.

The scheduled public hearings include: 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.

Resolutions include: Endorse Submission of Recycling Tonnage Grant; Approve Budget Reserve Transfers; Award Contract Under State Contract - Purchase of Parts and Related Services - Fleet Services; Title 59 Approval - Horticultural Supplies; Award Contract - Horticultural Supplies; Title 59 Approval - Coach Bus Transportation Services - H.I.L.T.; Award Contract - Coach Bus Transportation Services - H.I.LT.; Title 59 Approval - Concession Refreshment Services - Graydon Pool; and Award Contract - Concession Refreshment Services - Graydon Pool.

6. MANAGER’S REPORT

Budget Meetings - Ms. Mailander reported that there are several Budget Meetings Scheduled. The first one is Friday, March 3^rd beginning at 6:00 p.m. in the Courtroom. The remaining Budget Meetings will be held on Thursday, March 9^th beginning at 5:30 p.m. in the Senior Lounge; on Wednesday, March 15^th at 5:30 p.m. in the Courtroom; and Monday, March 27^th at 5:30 p.m. in the Courtroom. These meetings will be listed on the Village Website and are open to the public. There will be a time for public comment at the beginning of every meeting.

Good News - Ms. Mailander stated that Ridgewood was recognized by their insurance carrier, the Joint Insurance Fund of Bergen County, with the Annual “Gold” Safety Award. The award criteria include a low level of lost time and accident frequency; the holding of quarterly meetings of the Internal Safety Committee; toolbox safety talks; good training videos and safety classes run by Safety Institute On-Line Training; facility and equipment inspections to reinforce positive behaviors and jobsite observations; attendance at quarterly Safety Directors Workshop; and Motor Vehicle record checks for all operators of motor vehicles. Ms. Mailander stated that she was very proud of those who worked so hard to achieve this honor, especially Janet Fricke, who heads up the training for the safety classes, and Eileen Young and Donna Jackson of the Village Clerks Office, who handle all the worker’s compensation and general liability claims, and all the Department Heads and Supervisors.

Community Events

Meet the Mayor - Ms. Mailander stated that “Meet the Mayor” will be held on Saturday, March 4^th in the Caucus Room from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Please contact the Village Clerk’s Office at Ext. 205 if an appointment with the Mayor is desired; however, no appointment is required.

29^th Super Science Saturday - Ms. Mailander stated that Super Science Saturday is a free family event and will be held at Ridgewood High School from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 4^th. Super Science Saturday appeals to everyone from the casual observer to the aspiring scientist, and strives to spark an interest in science among children.

55+ Volunteer Fair - Ms. Mailander stated that the 55+ Volunteer Fair will be held at the Ridgewood Library on Sunday, March 5^th, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. This event is sponsored by Age Friendly Ridgewood and the Ridgewood Library. There will be various volunteer opportunities and groups represented.

7. COUNCIL REPORTS

Open Space Committee - Councilman Voigt reported that the Open Space Committee held a meeting on February 16^th. The members discussed an open space survey for use in updating the Master Plan. The survey will be sent to 1,000 households selected at random for the purpose of gathering data on the residents’ use and future development of open space. The questions on the survey will relate to use of park space, involvement in sports, acquisition of land or its potential use, and satisfaction with what already exists. Although the survey document will be mailed, residents are being requested to complete the survey on-line. The Open Space Committee is working with Green Acres in trying to rectify/replace parkland that Ridgewood used for Affordable Housing in 1982 on South Broad Street. Green Acres has held off paying Ridgewood approximately $750,000 from the grant that Ridgewood held in acquiring the Habernickel Property. Because Ridgewood did not follow the rules back in 1982 in replacing the parkland, the Village is required to follow the letter-of-the-law related to new parkland that is acquired. In order to obtain the money being held by Green Acres, the Village must follow all rules in the future. Compliance will also allow access to Green Acres Funding in the future. The Open Space Committee will be identifying land to acquire to replace the South Broad Street land, and will be holding a Public Hearing on May 10^th as part of the Village Council Public Meeting to talk about these potential acquisitions.

Planning Board - Councilman Voigt reported that the Planning Board met on February 21^st. The Planning Board discussed Chestnut Village, located behind the YMCA on Chestnut Street. The major part of the discussion related to offsite improvements, particularly making Chestnut Street and Robinson Lane safer for pedestrian traffic. The concerns relate to the people who actually live in Chestnut Village and providing sidewalks on Robinson Lane and Chestnut Street for access to downtown and other parts of the village. The question remains on who is responsible for paying for these improvements. It is anticipated that the developer will pay their fair share. The next Planning Board meeting will be The Enclave on March 7^th. The Ken Smith application is scheduled for March 21^st. The Dayton and Chestnut applications are scheduled for April 4^th.

Library Board - Councilman Voigt stated that the Library Board met on February 28^th. The Board of Trustees was approved at this meeting. The Officers are: Gail Campbell, President; Arlene Sarappo, Vice President; Daniel Cummings, Treasurer; and Jean Cleary, Secretary.

The Library Board members also discussed the 2017 budget, which will not increase.

The Library Foundation’s book selection for the “One Village One Book Program” is “An Invisible Thread”, which was on the New York Times Best Seller List.

The Friends of the Library is holding a 2017 Author Luncheon on March 15^th at Seasons Restaurant in Washington Township, New Jersey. The author is Jamie Ford who is the author of “The Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet”. Tickets for the luncheon are on sale on ridgewoodlibrary.org.

Each spring, the library celebrates a culture or country, starting in April through the beginning of May. Korea will be featured this year.

A live concert is planned for March 26^th, by Gabriel Donohue and will feature Irish songs and music. The concert is free and will be held in the auditorium.

Green Team - Councilman Sedon reported that the Green Team met on February 28^th. The members submitted two grants; one for $20,000 through Sustainable Jersey and one for $2,000. The grants are sponsored by PSE&G, but access is contingent upon being certified through Sustainable Jersey. The $20,000 grant will be used to complete half of the tree inventory.   If this grant is not approved, the smaller grant was requested to purchase reusable bags through REAC as a way to promote using reusable bags for shopping. The Green Team is getting ready to go through another round of certification. The last certification was in 2014 when Ridgewood was certified at the Bronze Level through Sustainable Jersey. The Green Team will work toward attaining the next level, which is the Silver Level, which offers access to more grants and larger grants. The deadline for the first submission is June 4^th.

Citizens Safety Advisory Committee (CSAC) - Councilwoman Walsh stated that CSAC met in February. Councilwoman Walsh reported that there was no news on the West Glen Avenue sidewalk TAP Grant Application and there was also no news on the Safe Back to School Grant for Franklin Avenue.

CSAC discussed the Task Force for Citizens Safety. This task force began in May, 2015, with the suggestion that a wide-view be taken of the Ridge School area. Anastasia Bamberg was named the Chairperson in July, 2016. The Ridgewood Police Department filed a safety report on the area in November, 2016. CSAC questioned what course of action, if any, should be taken. A suggestion was made to recommend to the Board of Education that they have more parking spots on site at Ridge School for parents/caregivers to park. This would reduce the waiting line leading into the school. Sheila Brogan, who is a member of CSAC, will bring this suggestion before the principal and members of the task force of Ridge School. Another discussion was held about the opening up of Clinton Avenue, which is currently closed to traffic, for a period in the afternoon, since the recent change to a full-day kindergarten eliminates the afternoon kindergarten pick-up.

CSAC discussed Complete Streets, a living document that Ridgewood uses throughout the Village, that suggested installing sidewalks on Clinton Avenue. Councilwoman Walsh recalled, however, that this idea was turned down by the Village Council in 2015. A conversation was also held on how to improve safety on Ridgewood Avenue during the twenty-minute school drop-off time period. Currently, vehicles line-up almost up to North Monroe Street. School officials will send out a notice to parents to encourage them to walk their children to school as opposed to driving. Councilwoman Walsh noted that the Village Engineer’s Office will be checking properties where foliage is creating a traffic safety issue, such as obstructing stop signs.  

Councilwoman Walsh addressed the proposed crosswalk on Van Emburgh at Hampshire Road.   County approval is required, and it is anticipated.

Councilwoman Walsh reported that CSAC is currently working on the partnership with Bergen County for lights and intersection improvements.

Councilwoman said discussions at the next CSAC meeting will include Sherman Place and the fading condition of speed limit signs on South Pleasant Avenue.

Mayor Knudsen congratulated the Village Staff on achieving the Gold Star Safety Award from the Joint Insurance Fund.

Mayor Knudsen stated that she, along with Councilmembers Voigt, Sedon, and Hache, interviewed many different applicants for Village Boards and Committees. All new members were appointed this evening. Mayor Knudsen thanked everyone who applied and for volunteering their time to serve the community.

Mayor Knudsen urged everyone to attend Super Science Saturday on March 4^th at Ridgewood High School from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Referring to a comment made at the last Village Council Meeting, Mayor Knudsen clarified that based on revenues and direct costs, Graydon Pool has never lost money. It is important to note that Graydon Pool is a Village Park and a treasure within the Village and, as such, financial status should not be a consideration.

8. PUBLIC COMMENTS

Brian Abdoo, 308 West Ridgewood Avenue, asked if the traffic safety study done at Ridge School would be discussed by the Village Council in the near future. Mayor Knudsen pointed out that if this becomes an agenda item, it will be posted on the Village Website and on Facebook. Mayor Knudsen noted that she also e-mails meeting agendas to residents on a list. Mayor Knudsen said that she will call Mr. Abdoo if the traffic safety study becomes an agenda item.

Carrie Giordano, 57 North Hillside Place, noted that one of the recommendations of the traffic safety study done at Ridge School was the placement of a crossing guard at North Hillside Place and Ridgewood Avenue. Councilwoman Walsh pointed out that this is a Police Department initiative and is currently being considered.

Ms. Giordano pointed out that she does not object to vehicles being parked on her street during school pick-up times. She felt the street has become less safe now with the vehicles lining up all the way to the corner, and with the many children. She encouraged the Village Council not to restrict parking anymore in this area and to work toward another solution to reduce the vehicle que.

Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, congratulated Ms. Mailander on her appointment as Village Manager.

Mr. Loving asked the Village Council to consider whether they want to require rain sensors to be retrofitted to current irrigation systems as opposed to being mandated for only new systems. Mr. Loving expressed concern that Ridgewood did not have control over the water restrictions implemented in the three customer municipalities. He asked for a chart to be provided that would detail the percentages of the total number of gallons of water used by each individual municipality over the course of a year.

9. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION

Deputy Village Clerk Donna Jackson read Resolution #17-66 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 Mayor Knudsen, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Work Session was adjourned at 9:10 p.m.

_____________________________

                                                                                                                     Susan Knudsen      

                                                                                                                           Mayor

_____________________________

            Donna M. Jackson

            Deputy Village Clerk