20170809 Village Council Public Meeting Minutes
A REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY ON WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 9, 2017 AT 8:00 P.M.
- CALL TO ORDER – OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS ACT – ROLL CALL – FLAG SALUTE - MOMENT OF SILENCE
Mayor Knudsen called the meeting to order at 8:00 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. At roll call, the following were present: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen. Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney.
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.
- ACCEPTANCE OF FINANCIAL REPORTS
Mayor Knudsen moved that the Bills, Claims, and Vouchers, and Statement of Funds on Hand, as of July 31, 2017, be accepted as submitted. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Council minutes of January 25, February 1, March 1,
May 10, June 14, and July 12, 2017, having been reviewed by the Village Council and now available in the Village Clerk’s Office, be approved as submitted. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- PROCLAMATIONS
- DRIVE SOBER OR GET PULLED OVER 2017 STATEWIDE CRACKDOWN:
The following proclamation was read by Councilman Sedon:
- DECLARE SEPTEMBER OVARIAN CANCER AWARENESS MONTH
The following proclamation was read by Councilwoman Walsh:
- DECLARE SEPTEMBER NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH
The following proclamation was read by Councilman Voigt:
- COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Mayor Knudsen asked if there were any comments from the public.
Rurik Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, felt that the public had been left out of the deliberations for the Hudson Street Garage. He recalled that the previous Village Council had enumerable public meetings on the garage. Mr. Halaby urged the Village Council to bring the public into the deliberations on the garage.
Mr. Halaby asked why the Village Council was discussing HealthBarn in Closed Session. He understood that neighbors of HealthBarn were taking photographs of children during drop-off and pick-up, which he found to be totally disturbing and possibly illegal, and he asked Village Attorney Matthew Rogers for his comments.
Jacqueline Hone, 30 Carriage Lane, stated that the bid in the amount of $99,875 for the Phase I clean-up of the Schedler property was a lot of money. Ms. Hone requested and reviewed documents that described the order and specifications of the scope of the work involved. She expressed concerns that the person doing the clean-up would be responsible for bringing any prehistoric artifacts found to the attention of the Village. She questioned how a person who is not an expert in prehistoric artifacts could identify them or sift through the dirt being removed. Ms. Hone also expressed concerns with the construction of 4 inch thick concrete sidewalks, including excavation, bedding form work, and joint install; the garage clean-up, which includes not only the garage, but an additional 20 feet surrounding the garage; the shed clean-up, which includes not only the shed, but an additional 100 feet surrounding the shed; and the stabilization of a concrete entrance, which is separate and aside from the sidewalks, using 100 square yards of crushed stone blanketed. Very little land remains after this work is complete. Ms. Hone pointed out that the application, dated 2009, specifically asked whether there were any existing or potentially historic structures on the site. She was very concerned that the answer to this question was “no”. At the time, the Village knew that there were potentially historic structures, or historic elements, on the site, including Revolutionary War artifacts that had been found on the land. Ms. Hone stated that this needs to be corrected and addressed.
Janice Willet, 207 Prospect Street, felt that the Village could do a better job regarding transparency in public notices. She expressed concern that if the grants for the renovation of the Schedler House restoration are not received, the Village would be paying the entire $633,000 cost. Ms. Willet did not feel that the majority of Village residents would go along with this proposition. She felt this possibility should be made clear to the public. Ms. Willet also expressed a concern with a lack of transparency in the Blue and White Collar contract proposals. Even though the cost-of-living increases are not normally included in the public notice, Ms. Willet felt that these increases are arguably what the public is most interested in, and should be included in the public notices going forward, and this information should also be included in the Police and Fire contracts.
Elizabeth Rottinger, 250 Hillcrest Road, asked the Village Council to delay voting on the traffic changes on West Ridgewood Avenue until there are more public discussions with all of the families involved. Ms. Rottinger felt that every time parking is prohibited or limited at points of gathering, such as schools, the problem is pushed to another area and the problem is not solved. Students from all over Ridgewood attend Ridge School and either walk, are bussed, or driven to school. Four hundred children need to arrive at Ridge School during a 15-minute window. Ms. Rottinger pointed out that the town of Midland Park closed off streets adjacent to the school two years ago, pushing parents to park elsewhere. Clinton Avenue is closed to traffic. West Ridgewood Avenue is a busy street. All of these factors work against drop-off. Ms. Rottinger urged everyone to work together to come up with a solution that is best for the majority of parents. She pointed out that the traffic situation occurs for only 15 minutes, twice a day, for approximately 182 days a year.
Dr. Daniel Fishbein, Superintendent of Ridgewood Public Schools, with the address of the Board Office being 49 Cottage Place, expressed appreciation, on behalf of the Board of Education, for the Village Council’s consideration of Ordinance 3611, Enact Title 39 on All Public School Properties, and Ordinance 3612, Unlawful Enrollment of Students in Ridgewood Public Schools. These ordinances will help with safety on the school campuses and also deter people who would like to send their children to Ridgewood Schools illegally.
Charlie Nowinski, 2 Betty Court, recalled that last year, a request was made for an explanation of the scope of the work proposed for the Schedler property, as well as having the dead trees marked out. Mr. Nowinski understood that under the Request for Proposal (RFP), the contractor must provide an arborist to mark out the trees. He pointed out that there is a lane that is wide enough for a truck to drive through that allows access to 75% of the trees that are dead. Mr. Nowinski expressed a concern that creating truck access to the remaining dead trees would require the removal of live trees. Mr. Nowinski suggested the issuance of a large fine, $5,000 to $10,000, if a contractor removes a live tree.
Ms. Mailander stated that the contractor for the Schedler property has agreed to mark the trees that are going to be removed. There will then be a period of three business days when neighbors and members of the Schedler Ad Hoc Committee can look at it and together, collectively make a decision.
Mayor Knudsen pointed out that Resolution #17-230, Title 59 Approval - Initial Cleanup (Phase I) Schedler Property and Resolution #17-231, Award Contract - Initial Cleanup (Phase I) Schedler Property (NTE $99,875), have been removed from the agenda this evening. In the interim, the Schedler Ad Hoc Committee will evaluate the bid to better understand how to proceed, and to determine if there are any changes or safeguards that need to be put in place to ensure that the tree canopy is respected and that the site will be allowed to bloom again.
Mayor Knudsen objected to the suggestion of a lack of transparency. Public notices are provided in the newspaper, as required by law, and these notices contain all the information required by law. The agendas are posted on the Village website. Ordinances are first introduced, then there is a time period that must go by before the ordinance can be subject to a public hearing. Mayor Knudsen posts the agendas on her Facebook Page and she e-mails the agendas, including notes and recaps of all the agenda items, to hundreds of residents.
- MANAGER’S REPORT
Office of The Bergen County Clerk - Ms. Mailander explained that the Bergen County Clerk will be opening a satellite office in Ridgewood in the Anne Zusy Youth Center, which is located on the ground floor of Village Hall, on September 12 - September 14, 2017 from 10:00 am to 2:00 p.m. The County Clerk’s Office will accept passport applications as well as take photos for the passports; file business trade names; issue notary oaths; and issue photo cards for residents, senior citizens, and exempt firefighters.
Ridgewood Day Camp - Ms. Mailander stated that the Ridgewood Day Camp ended last Friday. This Ridgewood Recreation program had another successful season, with over 450 children participating.
Seniors at Graydon Pool - Ms. Mailander explained that Age Friendly Ridgewood purchased 21 Graydon Pool Season Memberships for Ridgewood Seniors this season. Senior Tuesdays at Graydon Pool, which offered free admission to senior citizens, had only one participant. There were no requests for free transportation to Graydon Pool. The program will be evaluated to identify any additional assistance that may be provided.
Parks and Recreation Department Programs - Ms. Mailander stated that the Department of Parks and Recreation is partnering with several businesses this fall to provide recreational opportunities for Ridgewood’s youth. These programs include: Sports for Squirts, which offers t-ball, soccer, flag football, and lacrosse; US Sports Institute for lacrosse or t-ball; Skyhawks for golf; and Pony Share Equestrian Introduction. There is also a music program for preschoolers to introduce rock music and science, offering hands-on use of synthesizers, guitars and other unique instruments.
New Senior Bus Route - Ms. Mailander explained that on Wednesdays, beginning on September 6, 2017, the new senior bus route will provide round-trip transportation to the Ramsey Interstate Mall, where there is a wide variety of different stores. The trip will start between 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. and end between 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. Many thanks to Age Friendly Ridgewood and Beth Abbott, who is running the group’s financial support and the initial phase of this service. The route will run through the end of 2017. Reservations will be accepted at the Village Manager’s Office at Extension 203. Ten is the maximum number of reservations per day.
Movies on the Beach at Graydon Pool - Ms. Mailander stated that the movie, “Happy Feet” will be shown on Friday, August 11, 2017 at sundown at Graydon Pool. Admission is $5.00 per person, cash only, please. Bring a flashlight, and a folding chair or blanket. The Water’s Edge Café will be open for special movie treats including popcorn, candy, ice cream and beverages.
Chamber of Commerce: “Summertime Restaurant Week 2017” - Ms. Mailander explained that Summertime Restaurant Week 2017 begins on August 13, 2017 and runs through August 17, 2017 and again from August 20, 2017 to August 24, 2017. For these ten days, participating restaurants will offer patrons the chance of experiencing dining in Ridgewood like never before. Each business will prepare a three-course, prefixed meal at a cost of $30.12, not including tax, tip and beverage. Participating restaurants include: Blu Sushi; Latour; Leon; Lisa’s; Park West Tavern and Loft; ROOTS Steakhouse; Smoked to Go; Steel Wheel Tavern; Chestnut Catering; and Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt - Party Box. Ms. Mailander urged everyone to check the Chamber of Commerce website and the Village website for additional information, including serving times.
Ridgewood Guild - Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that the Ridgewood Guild is holding their “Music in the Night” and “Art in the Park” programs, which will be held every Friday night through September 1, 2017. All proceeds benefit the Ridgewood Guild.
Ridgewood Guild - Movies in the Park - Ms. Mailander announced that the Ridgewood Guild will be showing movies on Wednesday evenings in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square. Tonight’s movie, is “Moonstruck”. It is the 30th Anniversary of the release of this film. The final movie of the season will be “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid”, to be shown on Wednesday, August 23, 2017. The movie is free. Please bring a chair.
- VILLAGE COUNCIL REPORTS
Schedler Ad Hoc Committee - Councilman Sedon reported that the Schedler Ad Hoc Committee met on August 3, 2017 and conducted a walk-through of the Schedler property. Councilman Sedon thanked the Planning Representative, Isabella Altano, who arranged for the Village Traffic Engineer to join the Schedler Ad Hoc Committee on their walk-through. The Village Traffic Engineer’s observations were valuable and interesting. The Village Traffic Engineer observed that the sound of Route 17 that evening was probably the loudest it will be, since there were less vehicles on the highway at that time. Faster moving vehicles are louder than slower moving vehicles. He also observed that a buffer is of paramount importance to protect the residents from the pollution, particulates and fumes being dumped into the air by vehicles on Route 17. The Schedler Ad Hoc Committee continues to gather information and hopes to have a plan in place in the near future to present to the public.
Ridgewood Arts Council (RAC) - Councilwoman Walsh stated that the next “Artist’s Series” will be held on August 17, 2017, and is entitled, “Art of the Editorial Illustration”, featuring Ridgewood resident Drew Martin and Michael Thompson. It will be held from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Lester Stable
Historic Preservation Commission - Mayor Knudsen reported that the Historic Preservation Commission will be meeting on August 10, 2017 at 7:30 p.m. in the Village Hall Garden Room. Discussions include signage for Novo, an addition to a home on Van Dien, a proposed fine for Glow Skin Care, and a minor subdivision and “C” Variance for a lot at 246 Mountain Road, which is in a historic district.
Planning Board - Mayor Knudsen reported that the Planning Board will be meeting on Tuesday, August 15, 2017. The agenda includes The Enclave application, located on North Maple Avenue. Arrangements have been made for this meeting to be televised.
Community Relations Advisory Board (CRAB) - Mayor Knudsen stated that CRAB will be meeting on Wednesday, August 16, 2017 in the Garden Room.
Community Access Network - Mayor Knudsen stated that the Community Access Network will be meeting on Thursday, August 17, 2017. Mayor Knudsen thanked the members of the Community Access Network for being kind enough to incorporate the Stigma Free Initiative into their programming.
On a personal note, Mayor Knudsen wished her mother a very happy 81st birthday.
- ORDINANCES - RIDGEWOOD WATER
There were no ordinances for introduction for Ridgewood Water.
- PUBLIC HEARING - #3606 - Water Capital Ordinance ($1,600,000) - Purchase of Elks Club Property
Mayor Knudsen moved the second reading of Ordinance 3606 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3606 by title:
AN ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $1,600,000 FROM THE WATER UTILITY CAPITAL FUND FOR THE ACQUISITION OF PROPERTY IN AND BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY
Mayor Knudsen announced that the Public Hearing was open.
Janice Willet, 207 Prospect Street, suggested that there could be a better use of the space that the Village Hall already has to accommodate Water Department operations, instead of spending $1.6 million on buying the Elks Club. She noted that most companies in the private sector are now looking to reduce office space, and she questioned why the Village is going against this trend. Ms. Willet expressed a concern that parking will spill over into the library parking lot and add to the traffic congestion currently being experienced there. Ms. Willet felt a better use of the funds would be the upgrading of the water infrastructure. She urged the Village Council not to adopt this ordinance.
There being no further comments from the public, Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Hache moved that Ordinance 3606 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: Councilmembers Voigt and Walsh
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Voigt explained that he voted against the adoption of this ordinance because of financial concerns.
- RESOLUTIONS - RIDGEWOOD WATER
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 17-226 THROUGH 17-227, WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 17-228 THROUGH 17-229 WERE CONSIDERED SEPARATELY AND WERE READ IN THEIR ENTIRETY BY THE VILLAGE MANAGER/VILLAGE CLERK:
Councilwoman Walsh recused herself from this vote.
- ORDINANCES
There were no ordinances for introduction.
- PUBLIC HEARING - #3607 - Blue Collar Union Salary Ordinance
Mayor Knudsen moved the second reading of Ordinance 3607 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3607 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO FIX SALARIES, WAGES, AND OTHER COMPENSATION, OF AND FOR BLUE COLLAR EMPLOYEES OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, COUNTY OF BERGEN AND STATE OF NEW JERSEY
Mayor Knudsen announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Hache moved that Ordinance 3607 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- PUBLIC HEARING - #3608 - White Collar Union Salary Ordinance
Mayor Knudsen moved the second reading of Ordinance 3608 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3608 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO FIX SALARIES, WAGES, AND OTHER COMPENSATION, OF AND FOR THE WHITE COLLAR EMPLOYEES OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, COUNTY OF BERGEN AND STATE OF NEW JERSEY
Mayor Knudsen announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Voigt moved that Ordinance 3608 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- PUBLIC HEARING - #3609 - Amend Chapter 145 - Fees - Establish Fees for Tree Protection
Mayor Knudsen moved the second reading of Ordinance 3609 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3609 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 145 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, FEES, AT SECTION 145-6, “ENUMERATION OF FEES RELATING TO CODE CHAPTERS”
Mayor Knudsen announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Hache moved that Ordinance 3609 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- PUBLIC HEARING - #3610 - Amend Chapter 265 - Vehicles and Traffic - No Stopping on Portion of West Ridgewood Avenue
Mayor Knudsen moved the second reading of Ordinance 3610 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3610 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-66, “NO STOPPING OR STANDING”
Mayor Knudsen announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilwoman Walsh moved that Ordinance 3610 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- PUBLIC HEARING - #3611 - Enact Title 39 on All Public School Properties
Mayor Knudsen moved the second reading of Ordinance 3611 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3611 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AUTHORIZE THE PROVISIONS OF N.J.S.A. 39:5A-1 TO BE APPLICABLE TO ALL OF THE PREMISES AND PROPERTY OWNED AND OPERATED BY THE RIDGEWOOD PUBLIC SCHOOLS, SUBJECT TO THE APPROVAL OF THE COMMISSIONER OF TRANSPORTATION OF THE STATE OF NEW JERSEY
Mayor Knudsen announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Hache moved that Ordinance 3611 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- PUBLIC HEARING - #3612- Unlawful Enrollment of Students in Ridgewood Public Schools
Mayor Knudsen moved the second reading of Ordinance 3612 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3612 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO PREVENT THE UNLAWFUL ENROLLMENT OF SCHOOL CHILDREN IN THE RIDGEWOOD PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM AND TO PROVIDE PENALTIES THEREFORE
Mayor Knudsen announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Hache moved that Ordinance 3612 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- FINAL VOTE - #3574 - Bond Ordinance - Water Main Replacement at Stream Crossings and at Linwood Avenue and Beechwood Road
Mayor Knudsen moved the Clerk read Ordinance 3574 by title. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3574 by title:
A BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS IN AND BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $1,350,000 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $1,280,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE PART OF THE COST THEREOF.
Ms. Mailander explained that Ordinance 3574 is being voted on again this evening in order to correct a procedural error with sending the Supplemental Debt Statement to the Division of Local Government Services in the State of New Jersey. By way of background, Ordinance 3574 was adopted unanimously, with the exception of Councilwoman Walsh who was absent, on January 25, 2017. There was a procedural error in that the Supplemental Debt Statement, which must be prepared for every bond ordinance and filed with the Village Clerk and the Division of Local Government Services, was sent to the Division of Local Government Services, but was not received by them. Once the Village was notified by the Division of Local Government Services that they did not receive the Supplemental Debt Statement, it was sent to them again, but it was after Ordinance 3574 was adopted, which was too late. Therefore, the Village Council will be voting again to readopt Ordinance 3574 so that the Supplemental Debt Statement is properly filed, in a timely manner.
Councilman Sedon moved that Ordinance 3574 be readopted, to correct a procedural error, and final publication as required by law. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- FINAL VOTE - #3577 - Bond Ordinance - Street Paving and Streetscape, Police Department Scheduling Software, and Renovations to Fire Houses
Mayor Knudsen moved the Clerk read Ordinance 3577 by title. Councilman Hache seconded the motion
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3577 by title:
A BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR VARIOUS CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS IN AND BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $1,537,000 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $1,460,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE PART OF THE COST THEREOF.
Ms. Mailander explained that Ordinance 3577 is being voted on again this evening in order to correct a procedural error with sending the Supplemental Debt Statement to the Division of Local Government Services in the State of New Jersey. By way of background, Ordinance 3577 was adopted unanimously, with the exception of Councilwoman Walsh who was absent, on January 25, 2017. There was a procedural error in that the Supplemental Debt Statement, which must be prepared for every bond ordinance and filed with the Village Clerk and the Division of Local Government Services, was sent to the Division of Local Government Services, but was not received by them. Once the Village was notified by the Division of Local Government Services that they did not receive the Supplemental Debt Statement, it was sent to them again, but it was after Ordinance 3577 was adopted, which was too late. Therefore, the Village Council will be voting again to readopt Ordinance 3577 so that the Supplemental Debt Statement is properly filed, in a timely manner.
Councilman Voigt moved that Ordinance 3577 be readopted, to correct a procedural error, and final publication as required by law. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- FINAL VOTE - #3605 - Amend Chapter 260 - Trees and Shrubs
Mayor Knudsen moved the Clerk read Ordinance 3605 by title on third reading. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3605 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 260 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, TREES AND SHRUBS
Mayor Knudsen explained that Ordinance 3605 was introduced at a Special Public Meeting on June 28, 2017. The Public Hearing on Ordinance 3605 was held on July 12, 2017 and was closed. At that time, the Village Council moved to continue the final vote on Ordinance 3605 to tonight’s meeting.
Councilman Hache moved that Ordinance 3605 be adopted and final publication as required by law. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilman Hache
NAYS: Councilmembers Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: Councilman Sedon
- RESOLUTIONS
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 17-232 THROUGH 17-245, WITH THE EXCEPTION OF 17-242, WHICH HAS BEEN REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT AGENDA, WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:
Ms. Mailander explained that Resolution #17-230 and Resolution #17-231 were removed from tonight’s agenda and will be considered in the future after a review of the specifications and after more information is given to the Village Council representatives on the Schedler Ad Hoc Committee.
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION, NUMBERED 17-242, WAS CONSIDERED SEPARATELY AND WAS READ IN FULL BY THE VILLAGE MANAGER/VILLAGE CLERK:
Councilman Voigt explained that he voted “no” on Resolution #17-242 because he felt more time was needed to think about it.
- COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Mayor Knudsen asked if there were any comments from the public.
Ted LaStrange, 6 Jeffery Court, in New York, spoke about forced organ harvesting in China. Tens of thousands of prisoners of conscience each year are killed for their organs. Most of these prisoners of conscience are Falun Gong practitioners. A 1984 regulation decreed that these people and their organs become a property of the State. On June 13, 2016, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed Resolution 343, which condemned the practice of State sanction for organ harvesting in China. The European Parliament has also passed similar regulations. Research has shown that 865 hospitals in China have performed these organ transplants. He presented the Village Council with an information packet he prepared on forced organ harvesting in China.
Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that the acoustics in the courtroom make hearing comments from the podium difficult. She felt that the acoustics were better when the podium was on the other side of the room. Ms. Loving also asked that the air conditioning be turned down in the courtroom.
Ms. Loving asked if a billing occurs when an e-mail is sent by a member of the public to the Village Attorney. She felt this information was important for the public.
Ms. Loving asked if Resolution #17-242, Establish Special Projects Task Force, effectively ends the Financial Advisory Committee (FAC). Mayor Knudsen stated that yes, the FAC has been rebranded. The members of the FAC, who have been so generous to donate their time, expertise, backgrounds, and care for the Village, are going to be appointed to the Special Projects Task Force. Ms. Loving stated that she felt this was a good move.
Jaime Perez, 20 Mulder Lane, Midland Park, New Jersey, asked for an explanation of the Ridgewood Water Report. He felt it was hard to understand what was in the water and the indication of reasonable levels. Ms. Mailander stated that a staff member will contact Mr. Perez tomorrow and speak to him about his concerns. Mr. Perez stated that he cannot understand why there is always a water shortage. Mr. Rogers explained that this is a matter of conservation, not a declaration of drought. It is a conservation measure that is taken every summer, because usage increases tremendously during the summer. Ridgewood is the only town serviced by Ridgewood Water that has adopted a conservation ordinance. Mr. Rogers suggested approaching Midland Park with regard to adopting a conservation ordinance.
Jacqueline Hone, 30 Carriage Lane, thanked the Village Council for removing and postponing Resolution #17-230, Title 59 Approval - Initial Cleanup (Phase I) Schedler Property, and Resolution #17-231, Award Contract - Initial Cleanup (Phase I) Schedler Property. Ms. Hone pointed out that Village Council notices are also posted on two Facebook Community Pages, “It Takes a Ridgewood Village” and “Ridgewood Mom and Dads with Free Speech”. Ms. Hone questioned why the details of the bid for the Schedler Phase I cleanup were not accessible on the Village’s website. If this was requested under the Open Public Records Act (OPRA), there would not have been enough time to request it, receive it, and review it in time for the next meeting.
Ryan Rhew, 335 Kenilworth Road and a member of Boy Scout Troop 5, asked what was being done about the deteriorating condition of the Hudson Street parking lot. Mayor Knudsen explained that the Hudson Street lot is going through the process of a redevelopment zone study that will determine which direction the Village Council takes in terms of constructing a garage. A resolution is expected within the next couple of months.
Martin Walker, 114 Cottage Place, asked about a newspaper report regarding the subdivision application on Mountain Avenue that is currently before the Planning Board. The newspaper report indicated that Councilman Voigt felt there was some value in creating conforming lots on the street. Mr. Walker was greatly concerned about the long-term fiscal viability of the Village of Ridgewood, considering that families with children represent the largest fiscal challenge to the Village, given that 75% of the budget goes to schools. Mr. Walker felt that the Village Council must remain united in securing the long-term fiscal viability of the Village and must do everything possible to prevent the continual subdivisions or increases in residential properties for families with children.
Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Ms. Mailander stated that bid packets are not placed on-line. In most cases, bidders have to pay for bid packets because they are so expensive. Ms. Mailander stated that more information could be put on line regarding the Schedler property and the Hudson Street Parking Garage, subject to Village Council approval.
Mayor Knudsen also clarified that the Mountain Avenue subdivision is currently before the Historic Preservation Commission because the property has a historic designation.
- RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION
Ms. Mailander read Resolution #17-246 to go into Closed Session as follows:
- ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Hache, seconded by Councilwoman Walsh, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Regular Public Meeting was adjourned at 9:09 p.m.
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Susan Knudsen
Mayor
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Heather A. Mailander
Village Clerk
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