20170503 Village Council Work Session

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 MAY 3, 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 7:31 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; Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney; Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; and Donna 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.

Art Wrubel, 79 Ridge Road, stated that the train station is on the National Register of Historic Places. The parking lot adjacent to the train station was built around 1914 and opened in 1916. The property where the parking is proposed was created as a park, with trees that focused on the railroad station. The train station and the park were originally designed to work together. Mr. Wrubel urged the Village Council to keep this in mind when designing the proposed parking area.

Tony Damiano, 274 South Broad Street, thanked the Village Council for proceeding with efforts to build a parking garage. Mr. Damiano noted that the limited availability of parking was hurting the Central Business District (CBD) and he felt the addition of a parking garage would help improve foot traffic in the CBD, as well as encourage businesses to remain there.

Mr. Damiano hoped that none of the landscaping is taken away from the train station to create parking. He felt this would hurt the overall look of the CBD. Mr. Damiano stated that he was not in favor of moving the bus terminal over to the train station, especially if the Hudson Street Parking Garage is approved.

Bonnie Chalek, 110 Sheridan Terrace, introduced herself as a member of Mom’s Demand Action, Bergen County Chapter, a gun violence prevention organization. June 2^nd is National Gun Violence Awareness Day and last year’s Village Council unanimously voted to pass a resolution honoring this day. Approximately 91 Americans die and 150 people are treated at hospitals as the result of gun violence. Many neighboring municipalities, including Glen Rock, Fair Lawn, Mahwah, Oradell, and Clifton have passed similar resolutions this year. Ms. Chalek urged the Village Council to pass this resolution again this year. Ms. Chalek also urged everyone to wear orange that day. The color orange symbolizes the value of human life. It is the color hunters wear in the woods to protect themselves from others. She also asked for permission to tie orange ribbons outside of Village Hall.

Chris Colabella, 159 Cottage Place, spoke in favor of the passing of a resolution for gun violence awareness. Ms. Colabella noted that domestic violence happens everywhere, and the passing of this resolution will help to make victims aware of their risks from gun violence, it will show them support, and it will encourage public awareness.

Madeline Berris, 158 Hope Street, spoke in support of passing the resolution naming June 2, 2017 as Gun Violence Awareness Day, to encourage public awareness.

Kathryn Schmidt, 123 South Irving Street, urged the Village Council to adopt the resolution that raises awareness about gun violence and gun safety. The American Medical Association has called gun violence a health crisis, noting that approximately 30,000 men, women, and children die each year from guns. Gun fatalities and automobile accident fatalities have been almost equal in number over the past five years. The percentage of firearm deaths in the United States is approximately 10%, as compared to 2% in Canada; 1% in Australia; and less than 1% in the United Kingdom. Ms. Schmidt noted that policies around gun control and the right to bear arms is a divisive issue in the United States; however, she hoped that a focus on gun violence and how to prevent it would be something that could bring the country together.

Rurik Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, spoke in favor of hiring an historian as a consultant for the Schedler Property. He asked if the public will have a say in who is chosen as historian.

Mr. Halaby asked if members of the Financial Advisory Committee (FAC) were allowed to see the 2017 Budget before it was made public, describing them as a high-level group of individuals. Mr. Halaby stated that the did not trust all the Village Councilmembers, referring to them as amateurs. Mayor Knudsen called a point of order and Mr. Halaby left the podium.

Cynthia Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, noted that the greenery at the train station was originally known as the Grand Plaza. In the interest of preservation and conservation, Ms. Halaby felt that the destruction of an historic area is totally wrong. She urged the Village Council to think very carefully about moving forward on the proposed parking.

Jeanne Thiesen, 385 Colonial Road, urged the Village Council to approve the flying of the Gay Pride Flag during the month of June. This action will demonstrate how strongly the Village welcomes diversity in the community and how every member of the community is valued.

Lorraine Reynolds, 550 Wyndemere Avenue, felt the addition of 41 parking spaces at the train station would be invaluable to commuters. The property proposed for these parking spaces is used as a walk-through, not as a park. After the parking is constructed, there will still be a sidewalk and greenery, and additional trees are proposed. Ms. Reynolds urged the Village Council to approve this plan.

Mayor Knudsen stated that a resolution, encouraging the wearing of the color orange to symbolize gun violence awareness, will be on the Village Council agenda.

Mayor Knudsen thanked Mr. Wrubel for his comments and assured him that the Village Council will respect the historic integrity of the train station.

Mayor Knudsen noted that the historian for the Schedler Property is the same architectural historian that did the work on the train station, so every attention to detail will be followed.

Mayor Knudsen stated that, concerning the FAC’s role in the budget process, the Village Council was very mindful and absolutely respectful of the requests and needs of the Village Staff. Recommendations concerning the budget were left to the professionals on-staff. Members of the FAC were welcome to attend the budget hearings.

Mayor Knudsen stated that the Village Council is not going to tolerate any ongoing personal attacks from the public at the podium. It is a violation of the rules of order.

3. PRESENTATION
4. Addition of Name to War Memorial

Christopher Stout, 251 Morningside Place, explained that, as a result of his research of military casualties as listed on the War Memorial at Van Neste Square, he is requesting the addition of the name of Pfc. Anthonie J. Wendels to the World War I Memorial Plaque. Pfc. Wendels was born in Rotterdam in 1895. When he enlisted in the American Expeditionary Forces in 1917, he gave his address of record as 209 Ridgewood Avenue, Ridgewood, New Jersey. Pfc. Wendels entered the war in 1918, was wounded twice, gassed once, and killed in action on November 4, 1918, one week before the signing of the armistice. Pfc. Wendels earned the Distinguished Service Cross, as well as France’s Medaille Militaire (Military Medal). To Mr. Stout’s knowledge, Pfc. Wendels has not been memorialized anywhere.

Mr. Stout requested the Village Council’s approval to claim Pfc. Wendels as a citizen of Ridgewood and to place his name on the World War I Plaque at the War Memorial at Van Neste Square during this year’s Memorial Day Ceremony. The plaque, including installation, will cost $1,020.00. If the Village is unable to pay this cost, Mr. Stout felt he could find private funding.  

Mayor Knudsen stated that she distributed a copy of the story of Pfc. Wendels to all the Village Councilmembers. A resolution to add Pfc. Wendel’s name to the World War I War Memorial has been drafted. Mr. Stout also presented a newsletter from the Bergen County Historical Society that gave additional details of Pfc. Wendel’s life.

Mayor Knudsen stated that the Village was thrilled and honored to add Pfc. Wendel’s name to the World War I Memorial Plaque. She thanked Mr. Stout, Joe Suplicki, and Stan and Peggy Norris for all their hard work.

1. Estate Card - Property Tax Reduction

Ralph Black, the Government Relations Director of Municipal Cards, LLC, explained that his company has developed a new and innovative tax savings program. The program uses a Debit MasterCard that offers a percentage back on purchases paid toward the cardholder’s property taxes. Bonus rewards are earned on local purchases and on-line purchases. These rewards can be as high as 25%. The reward is paid automatically to the Village. The Village benefits by a reduction in the tax burden and the promotion of local spending. The property owner will get much needed tax relief and local businesses will benefit from increased traffic and revenue.   Municipal Cards, LLC will ask the Village to promote the voluntary program by either a mailer or a newsletter to the homeowners. Municipal Cards, LLC will provide the municipality with a website. The homeowner will sign on for the debit card (since it is a debit card, everyone is approved). The homeowner will receive the card in five to seven days and can start using it immediately. Once the homeowner signs on, the relationship will be between the cardholder and the bank. Municipal Cards, LLC will identify the purchases made in Ridgewood, process the reward amount, and a payment will be made to the Village in the form of a mortgage company escrow payment at the time designated by the Village Council. Payments can be made earlier than the due date.

There are three levels of rewards, as follows: a base amount of .25% on every dollar; as much as 10% at participating local merchants; and then up to 25% on purchases made on-line. Currently, there are 3,200 on-line merchants already sign-on. Based on Municipal Cards, LLC scaling, property owners can save up to 25% of their property tax bill. Mr. Black explained that this rate is based upon the average property tax amount across the United States, a blended reward rate, and an average spending level of $9,200.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Black stated that since this is not a credit card, there are no interest charges on the unpaid balance.

Under questioning by Councilman Sedon, Mr. Black explained that the base reward of .25% is paid by Municipal Cards, LLC. Local merchants who choose to participate in the program will choose a reward level, where they will pay between 5% and 10%. On-line merchants will pay in the same manner.   Municipal Cards, LLC underwrites the cost of administering and implementing the program up until August 1, 2017. Municipal Cards, LLC will profit from the amount of the purchase that is taken from the interchange; it is only pennies on the dollar.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Black stated that there is no cap on how much reward money a property owner can earn.   The bank involved is Metabank. Metabank is the biggest, on-line bank in the United States and is headquartered in Iowa. Mr. Black understood that Metabank Financial Services operates out of North Dakota and he will confirm this via e-mail to the Village. There is no minimum balance required; however, it is suggested that the property owner deposit a minimum of $800.00 monthly into this account.  

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Black explained that local merchant participation is voluntary. The merchant will select what percentage of reward they are willing to offer and no contract is required. The merchant can stop and start the reward program at their discretion.

Councilman Hache questioned the program’s effectiveness at generating new business. Mr. Black explained that through the eight years of the research and development of this product and the last 4-5 months that the project has been live, Municipal Cards, LLC projects an increase of at least 15% to 20% in revenue for local businesses, as well as an increase in foot traffic. One-time promotions may also cost the business money, but only for that particular period of time. If the customer is given the incentive to come back to earn rewards, they may shop more often.

Councilman Hache noted that the average property tax bill in the United States is $2,100, as compared to the average property tax bill in Ridgewood of $16,000. Mr. Black pointed out that, based on figures released this week, the average tax bill in the United States is $2,600. Mr. Black explained that, since it is assumed that homeowners paying higher property taxes have higher spendable income, the potential to save 25% on property taxes still holds true.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Black stated that currently Municipal Cards, LLC is in contract negotiations with seven other municipalities. Mr. Black agreed to supply the Village Manager with the names of these towns, off the record. However, he did indicate that the town of Caldwell, New Jersey has shown a favorable view.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Black explained that Municipal Cards, LLC takes a piece of the transaction. Municipal Cards, LLC does not take any of the interest that may or may not be earned on the deposits made by the homeowner. The issue of interest is between the cardholder and the bank.

Mr. Black noted that Municipal Cards, LLC will offer a 9.1% match on rewards earned on-line by Ridgewood residents, as an additional revenue stream for the Village for use wherever they wish, including crediting that money back, on a proportional basis, to the taxpayers. Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Black said he will explain how the 9.1% rate was determined off the record in an e-mail to the Village Manager.

Village Manager, Heather Mailander stated that the great things about this program is that it is voluntary for both merchants and residents; merchants can offer rewards at their discretion since there is no contract; residents are given the opportunity of reducing their taxes by spending as they usually do; and foot traffic in the CBD will increase.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Black stated that he will provide additional information on branding the card and website with a map of Ridgewood or the Ridgewood logo.

Under questioning by Councilman Sedon, Councilman Hache stated that this rewards program was discussed with the Ridgewood Guild and the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce, who requested a presentation.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Black stated there is no minimum on the number of merchants participating in this program. It is anticipated that there will be more than one. Municipal Cards, LLC will work with the Village Council to promote the program and educate the public.

Under questioning by Ms. Mailander, Mr. Black explained that Municipal Cards, LLC has the capacity of altering the geographic boundaries of the program, if surrounding municipalities decide to adopt the same program.

Ms. Mailander explained that Municipal Cards, LLC is the sole source provider of this type of service, so a Request for Proposal (RFP) is not required.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Black explained that this card will be accepted wherever MasterCard is accepted. Municipal Cards, LLC defines a merchant as anyone who is open for business and sells commodities or services.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Black explained that the base reward amount of .25% is earned for every transaction. More rewards can be earned if the merchant participates in the program.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Black stated that commercial property owners will also receive rewards toward their taxes if they use the program’s debit card.

Mayor Knudsen stated that the Village Council will discuss this issue again.

1. PIKE - Parking Garage

Peter Cornell, President, Pike Development Company and Mike Gestwick, Project Manager, Pike Development Company, were present for the discussion and video presentation.  

Mr. Cornell explained that Pike Development is part of the Pike Family of Companies. In existence since 1883, this company has been family owned for five generations. The company’s annual volume is close to $1billion. Pike Development is involved in many construction and development projects along the East Coast. Pike Development’s primary offices are in Rochester, New York; Albany, New York; and Orlando, Florida.

Mr. Cornell pointed out a list of parking garages that Pike Development has recently completed, as well as the current New Jersey projects on the video display.

Mr. Gestwick explained that the team is composed of four Pike Development staff members. Mr. Gestwick introduced two of those team members: Andrew Giordano, Project Executive and an expert in garage construction, in particular pre-manufactured garages; and Joe Volpe, who is primarily responsible for municipal approvals and drone operation.

Mr. Gestwick explained that the approach to the proposed project is to work directly with a pre-cast manufacturer. Starting with modular pieces that manufacturers already make, the plan calls for modifying those pieces to fit the site. The majority of the garage will be manufactured off-site in a factory setting and then assembled on location. This will result in a substantial cost savings versus ground-up construction. Approximately 75% of the garages constructed by Pike Development over the last 15 years have been pre-manufactured. If the shape of the property is unusual, the the cast-in-place construction method is used instead of precast.

Mr. Cornell addressed cost controls, which included a predefined profit on the construction side and a transparent transaction. Pike Development will take a 4% profit on the overall construction, and the entire bid process will be transparent to the municipality, so there are no hidden costs. Once it is determined what the ultimate structure will look like, Pike Development will take all the construction risks. Pike Development will give a guaranteed, maximum price and this number will never change. Mr. Cornell stated that this can be done in two ways: 1.) Pike Development can own the garage and lease it back to the Village; or 2.) Pike Development can build the garage for the municipality to own.

Mr. Gestwick presented aerial views of the site, which included the surrounding properties and the approximate dimensions of the proposed garage. Pike Development is proposing a pre-cast approach to the garage to keep the costs down. The Broad Street side of the garage will have a brick finish (real brick imbedded in the pre-cast). The Hudson Street side of the garage will have a stone finish that matches the church. Mr. Gestwick noted that the sketch presented is preliminary and subject to change.

Mr. Gestwick presented a real-time video of the site, taken by a drone, which included a simulation of the proposed parking garage on the property.

Mr. Gestwick explained that the project could be delivered as a construction project; a short-term lease (less than 10 years); or a long-term lease (full amortization at 25 years, when the building will be turned back over to the Village for $1.00).

Mr. Gestwick noted that, typically, garages are built with double-loaded lanes, which means that vehicles can park to the left or the right of the driveway. Because of width restrictions, the proposed garage will have one, double-loaded lane and one single-loaded lane. This creates some inefficiencies and drives up the cost per space.

Mr. Gestwick stated that the garage will take approximately 8 months to be 100% complete.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Cornell explained that the cost will be less than $8million, for 240 parking spaces.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Cornell explained that once a guaranteed, maximum price is established, as long as the Village doesn’t make any changes during the course of construction, that price will not change.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Gestwick stated that a mock-up of one panel of the facade will be presented, so the Village Council can get a better idea of how it will look. The choice of stone on the Hudson Street side was done to match the facade of the adjacent church; however, the company is open to any suggestions.

Councilman Voigt expressed concern with traffic control and parking during construction; in particular, the impact on the church and area businesses. Mr. Gestwick explained the proposal to place Jersey Barriers in the middle of one-half of Hudson Street to restrict traffic to one-lane during the construction period. The back-side will be kept open to allow delivery access for the businesses. The current parking spaces will be gone during the construction period. Representatives from Pike Developments Operations Department will meet with the Village Council to discuss the logistics.

Mr. Gestwick explained that the massive pieces of concrete will be moved through Village streets in the early evening and then set-up between 2:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m. The developer tries to keep large trucks off the road during high traffic times.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Gestwick explained that the developer used a 9.5’ width for the parking space. If the width was reduced to 8.5’, the opening of car doors could cause damage to adjacent vehicles. The only other way to add additional spaces to the 240 proposed would be to add another floor to the garage.

Under questioning by Councilman Sedon, Mr. Gestwick stated that the proposed garage height is under 40’.

Under questioning by Councilman Sedon, Mr. Cornell stated that he and Mr. Gestwick will be available for community meetings.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Gestwick explained that his company would ask for competitive bids from pre-cast manufacturers that operate within the State of New Jersey. In order to get budget numbers for tonight’s presentation, Pike Development worked with Unistress Corporation. The pre-cast material will have two warranties; the engineer who stamped the plans and the manufacturer of the pre-cast panels, as well as Pike Developments guarantee beyond that.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Gestwick stated that the age expectancy of a pre-manufactured garage depends on the quality of the maintenance. With pressure washing to remove salt on a regular basis and regular, preventative maintenance, concrete can last from 30 to 40 years. Without maintenance, problems will occur within 15 years.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Gestwick stated that once the contract is signed and the guaranteed maximum price is established, the price will not change. Any work the developer does to arrive at the guaranteed maximum price is included in the $8million estimated cost. Any changes requested by the Village after the contract is signed, will have to be financed by the Village.

Councilwoman Walsh asked if there would be an additional charge for providing different designs for the garage. Mr. Gestwick explained that the dimensions should not change because they work for pre-cast. The proposed facade can change, but the cost of the garage will increase, as a result of the change in the cost of materials for a different facade. Councilwoman Walsh felt that for the residents and the surrounding neighbors, aesthetics is critical. Aesthetics and cost will be the Village Council’s biggest concerns.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Cornell stated that he will e-mail a full list of the addresses of other garages the developer constructed in the area. He will also provide the Village Council with a copy of tonight’s Power Point presentation.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Cornell could recall only one issue, in the 150 years Pike Development Company has existed, that resulted in their walking away from a job. This involved rebuilding a courthouse in the City of Albany. The methodology was to rebuild the courthouse from the top down and the architect of record insisted that the plumbing be installed from the bottom up after the construction had already begun, which would have cost twice as much.

Mr. Cornell pointed out that Pike Development Company has no bank loans, no debt, and no litigation.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Gestwick stated that the garage is a tight fit on the lot, and does not encroach on the alley or the easements.

Councilman Hache noted that the least expensive quote the Village had received so far is approximately 31% higher than the $8million dollar cost estimate from Pike Development Company. Councilman Hache asked if the facade could be improved at a cost not to exceed this 31%. Mr. Gestwick estimated that changing the facade would cost an additional $40.00 per square foot of the facade. Using this estimate, Councilman Hache calculated that improving the facades on both sides of the structure would result in an approximately $560,000 or 8% increase in the estimated cost.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Cornell explained that Pike Development Company will provide 100% of the financing. On the short-term, the current rate for 7 years is 3.75% and the lender mandates a debt ratio coverage on top of the debt service. The debt ratio coverage is based on the Village’s credit rating and can run from a 1:10 debt ratio coverage to a 1:25 debt ratio coverage. The Village of Ridgewood has a AAA rating, so the debt ratio should be somewhere between a 1:10 and 1:15 debt ratio coverage. Pike Development Company does not charge more than the lender mandated debt ratio coverage. At the conclusion of the term, it is a guaranteed purchase, not an option for purchase. The by-out is the unamortized debt plus 10%. The other alternative is a 20 or 25-year financing arrangement, at 4.25% as of today’s standard, which is probably more than the Village would pay on a bond offering, but with a private placement with Pike Development Company, there is no subsequent cost. From that perspective it is fully amortized and at the end of the term, the Village takes the garage over for the cost of $1.00.

Councilman Hache questioned how cost estimates could be so different between construction companies. Mr. Cornell explained that approximately 80% of his company’s jobs come from repeat customers. Pike Development Company does have a large volume of clients and this gives them the ability to extend themselves a little more for major clients. Mr. Cornell noted that his company is the largest developer of Walmart facilities in the United States. Mr. Cornell stated that using transparent formulas with renter-mandated requirements eliminates a lot of negotiations and simplifies the process.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Cornell stated that for a client with a AAA credit rating, his company would go directly to an insurance company and would not use a bank. Pike Development Company does business with AIG Insurance.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Cornell explained that Pike Development Company is a construction and financing vehicle; they will not manage the garage unless requested by the Village. With the short-term financing option, the Village will not make any payments until the first lease payment is due, which is after the certificate of occupancy is issued.

Mayor Knudsen thanked Mr. Cornell and Mr. Gestwick for developing a detailed proposal in such a short time. She felt the design fit within the lot, and she was happy that the design included the statue by Paterson sculptor Gaetano Federici that was over the door of the original Village Hall building previously located on this site.   This statue is currently in storage.

Mayor Knudsen pointed out that the corner piece must go up another floor because there must be a way to get to the top. Mr. Gestwick estimated that this would bring it up another 5’ or 6’ because the top of that section is already at the top of the parapet wall. Mayor Knudsen felt that a brick design all the way around the building may be more aesthetically pleasing.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Cornell explained that the $33,000 cost per space falls in the middle as compared to the costs of other projects, which ranged from $15,000 a space to $70,000 a space. In the current market and with a double-loaded parking plan, the price per space would probably be around $26,000 to $28,000 per space.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Gestwick explained that another level would create an additional 60 parking spaces and increase the height of the building by 10 or 11 feet. He will provide the Village Council with an exact number. The cost would not go up, because adding another level will not substantially change the footings or the foundation. Mayor Knudsen pointed out that the size proposed was chosen to make sure that the structure fit on the lot both physically and aesthetically, and did not tower over the streetscape obscuring the view of the neighborhood’s two, beautiful church steeples.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Voigt, Mr. Gestwick stated that there are four levels of parking proposed, including roof-deck parking. The front structure will be extended another approximately 6’ to accommodate the elevator. The building will be within the Village Code height requirements. There will be a stair tower and an elevator in the front structure, and there will be a stair tower in the far corner in the back at the same height, to provide two means of egress.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Cornell explained that cars can enter and exit the garage wherever the Village Council desires; however, the developer must know this before the design is completed. Typically, the developer’s representative will meet with the Village’s traffic expert and discuss what is practical considering the design of the structure and the traffic pattern of the area. Mr. Cornell and Mr. Gestwick observed the traffic in the area today and found that it was very busy. Mr. Cornell suggested placing the entrance away from the intersection. Mayor Knudsen noted that this may also open up more on-street parking.

Mayor Knudsen asked Mr. Cornell to address lighting. Mr. Cornell explained that the parapet walls themselves will have lighting packs on the lower walls to shine enough light for the cars around the perimeter to have adequate light for safety. The developer will then calculate the angle and the location of the light poles from the sidewalks on the opposing sides of the street, and then gauge the height of the posts so that all that is seen is the glow of the light. All of the lighting posts will be shielded so that the light is shooting down and out, and not polluting the outside area. Lighting must be bright enough to provide security, but not too bright as to annoy neighbors. Mr. Cornell stated that the entire lighting plan will be presented to the Village Council before the plans are finalized. He noted that the difference in the cost for lighting fixtures is incidental.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Cornell stated that Joe Volpe is not present this evening because he is attending his son’s graduation from U.S. Army Basic/Specialty Training at Fort Bennington. There was a round of applause from everyone present.

4. DISCUSSION
5. Ridgewood Water
6. Water Conservation Ordinance

Richard Calbi, Director of Operations, was present to answer questions and concerns from the Village Council members regarding Ordinance No. 3588.

Mayor Knudsen explained that Ridgewood Water customers have expressed concerns with some of the restrictions contained in the newly adopted Water Conservation Ordinance. A suggestion was made to allow one year to implement the requirement that customers install rain sensors on the sprinkler systems. Some systems are older than others, and it will take time to research which rain sensor will work with which system. Mr. Calbi stated that unless a sprinkler system is operating when it is raining, the Village will not be checking houses for compliance. The rain sensor is required if a customer is requesting an exemption. A customer must have both a rain sensor and a smart controller to qualify for an exemption. A rain sensor is actually needed for a smart controller to work properly.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Calbi explained that the restrictions of watering on certain days and at certain times will be enforced. Customers can bring violations before the municipal court, if they feel they were issued in error.

Mr. Calbi told the story of a member of the Village staff, and a customer of Ridgewood Water, who installed a smart controller. The smart controller was set to water this morning; however, because it was connected to the customer’s smart phone, it knew that it was going to rain on Friday so it did not water the lawn. The customer installed the smart controller himself, but still needs to get the smart sensor certified.

Mayor Knudsen stated that some residents requested to have the hours when hand watering is prohibited to be shortened to 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., instead of 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., because it is more likely that customers will be home during the unrestricted hours. Mr. Calbi explained that, from an operational standpoint, the restricted hours were chosen on the basis of the amount of water needed to refill the tanks based on the usage during the night from automatic systems. Another reason was relative to temperature. Watering should be done during the coolest times of the day, to minimize evaporation. Mr. Calbi pointed out that there are no prohibitions on the days when hand watering can occur.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Calbi explained that children running through a sprinkler is not prohibited. Mr. Calbi stated that this is addressed on the Ridgewood Water website under Frequently Asked Questions. Gutter cleaning, power washing a home, and filling a pool are not prohibited uses, as they occur infrequently, as compared to watering, which is a daily event.

Under questioning by Councilman Sedon, Mr. Calbi explained that car washing is not prohibited; however, the use of an automatic car wash that recycles water is recommended. The website also contains ideas on how to save water while washing your car, like using a bucket.

Mayor Knudsen recommended a bulk mailing to every Ridgewood resident detailing the restrictions contained within the Water Conservation Ordinance, why these restrictions are necessary, and the plans for the future. Mr. Calbi stated that he will provide all the information needed for a bulk mailing. Ms. Mailander stated that this will be worked on internally.

Councilman Hache spoke of the importance of conservation and he commended everyone on being proactive.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Calbi stated that Ho-Ho-Kus enacts two-day-a-week water restrictions annually from May to September. Instead of issuing violations for noncompliance, Ho-Ho-Kus adds a surcharge on the water bill. Mr. Calbi noted that water restrictions occur in the western and southern portions of New Jersey, as well. Limiting watering times, watering during the cooler parts of the day, watering less, watering smart, and planting drought-tolerant landscaping are all recommendations made by drought experts.

1. Policy
2. Flag Flying Policy for Village-Owned Lands and Buildings

Village Attorney Matthew Rogers reported to the Village Council on the legal and policy implications of the request for flying the Gay Pride Flag on the municipal flag pole in front of the Municipal Building.

After going through discussions and looking at the case law, Mr. Rogers determined that the Village Council is not required to allow the Gay Pride Flag to fly on the municipal flag pole. The case law is clear when dealing with private, political expressions, such as the Gay Pride Flag. The fact that the flag pole is on public property does not necessarily mean that the Village must allow the expression of that particular political position on the public property. That being said, the Village would be required to allow political expression if the location is one that has been historically and customarily used as the public forum. A public forum is a place within the municipality or within the governmental entities border that has regularly become the place for the staging of things such as petition drives, political speech, political functions, and religious functions. A public forum is the one place where people in the community can rely on finding what is going on in the community from a political standpoint, or where one would expect this political standpoint to come from. Mr. Rogers noted that this description sounds more like Van Neste Square than the Municipal Building.

Mr. Rogers stated that he knew of requests made over the years for doing certain politically expressive things in the front of the Municipal Building. These requests were denied, not necessarily because of content, but because of the fact that this location has never been used as the public forum before. From a historical perspective, neither the front of the Municipal Building or the flag in particular, has had that customary practice.

Mr. Rogers explained that the following issues need to be taken into account when considering the request to allow political expression on municipal property: 1.) Just because a site is on municipal property does not necessarily mean it must be used for private/political expression; and 2.) Public property, which has not by tradition or design become a forum, can be reserved by the municipality and saved from this expression by the municipality. Over the years, the front of the Municipal Building and the municipal grounds in the front, particularly on Ridgewood Avenue and the flag pole, have been preserved and have not been the site for political expression. This is not a location that people rely on to find out what is being expressed politically.

Mr. Rogers stated that the First Amendment does not necessarily guarantee access to governmental property simply because it is owned by the government. The U.S. Supreme Court has upheld a content-neutral ban on the use of public property for private expression. Once it can be shown that a municipality is taking a position based upon the content of the expression, then the municipality runs afoul of the constitutional safeguards for freedom of speech.  

Mr. Rogers stated that seeing that this area or this flag pole really isn’t a public forum and that there have been efforts to try and preserve the front of the Municipal Building and the flag pole to secure it and keep it from becoming a public forum, the Village Council, back in the fall of 2016, adopted an ordinance that dealt with the aftermath of the 2016 elections and campaign signs. The ordinance adopted included political signs in a category for temporary signs, which restricted all temporary signs from public property. Political signs were placed in the category of temporary signs because the Village Council did not want to discriminate based on content. The Village Council did not want to do anything that would predict or leave a perception that the Village was taking issue with certain things as a result of what the sign was saying. The Village Code indicates that flags can be considered signs, with the exception of the American Flag, State Flag, or any governmental entity flag. The fact that the Village has prohibited temporary signs from public properties would give an objector, someone who may object to the use of the flag pole for a private interest or a private speech expression, a strong, sustainable argument in a court of law. The definition of a politically expressive sign or flag is a sign or flag that is promoting a cause that creates political judgment on someone’s part. This falls under the category of several cases handled by the U.S. Supreme Court, and cited by Mr. Rogers in his memorandum to the Village Councilmembers. The fact that the flag pole has not been used as a political forum, leads to the question of setting a precedent. It can be shown historically that the flag pole has been reserved, and that an effort has been made to keep it from being a public forum that may be in another location within the municipality.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Rogers stated that the law does not prohibit the flying of a political interest flag. However, Mr. Rogers noted that the Village Ordinance makes a strong argument, if someone wanted to challenge it, that a political interest flag, such as the Gay Pride Flag, is not permitted on public property. Councilman Voigt stated that he did not see the Gay Pride Flag as political; he sees it as an expression of inclusiveness and as an example of something the Village should embrace. Mr. Rogers explained that this falls under the position that a municipality should not deal with the content of a sign or flag. Mr. Rogers did not feel that calling the Gay Pride Flag a political sign or a sign that expresses a political interest, taints the position of someone who either supports the position of gay pride or is against it. At the same time, when dealing with these types of expressive positions, it could be called inclusionary; however, this doesn’t matter because the ordinance does not take a position from a content perspective at all. The ordinance takes the position that it is a temporary sign and is to be included in that category of temporary signs that are restricted from public property.

Councilman Sedon stated that the municipality already flies the American Flag, a potent symbol of inclusion, freedom, and justice that is recognized all over the world. The American Flag represents every single American, no matter what race, creed, sexual orientation, religion or lack of religion. Many good people died to preserve this right. Ridgewood is a community of inclusion. Councilman Sedon expressed concerns with setting a precedent and the problems that may arise as more and more groups request the flying of their flag, including being put in the position of choosing which cause or issue is more important than another cause or issue. Mr. Rogers noted that this falls under policy implications, which the Village Council must discuss and determine. Under the Constitution, the protection of free speech does not allow regulation or assignment of groups who can fly or can’t fly their flags.

Councilwoman Walsh pointed out that the Holi Celebration was held on public property and this was an expression of a certain group’s spring festival. A blue line was painted down the street to celebrate the respect the Village has for their police officers. The baseball parade goes down the main street. There are many symbols of other groups around town that are inclusive and she felt the flying of the Gay Pride Flag as a sign of inclusiveness should not be kept from the Village. Councilwoman Walsh did not feel the Gay Pride Flag should be on the same halyard as the American Flag. She suggested placing the Gay Pride Flag on a stand either inside Village Hall or in front of Village Hall, as a great expression of the Village’s inclusiveness.

Councilman Hache noted that this is not any easy topic to discuss as there are legal, practical, and human aspects to it. Councilman Hache stated that as a Hispanic, he is particularly sensitive to the issues of inclusion and equality. When also considering the responsibilities of an elected official, it is incumbent upon all elected officials to be inclusive and never reject, ignore, or single-out any individual group of people. Elected officials are committed to providing an environment of openness and inclusion. In this same spirit, it is important for elected officials not to take a political stand or express a private interest in promoting specific individuals or groups. The Village’s policy of raising the National and State Flags, represents the broader inclusion of all constituents equally. The Gay Pride Flag is considered a private expression, not a public flag. As a community of individuals and businesses, we are more than welcome to fly any banner or flag we support.

Councilman Hache noted that the Holi Celebration was not sponsored by the Village of Ridgewood. This was a group that needed a field for a party and made a request before the Field Committee. There are many groups that are given access to a field if there is an availability. Councilman Hache did not feel that anyone sitting on the dais this evening was against what the Gay Pride Flag represents. However, he questioned what will happen when a group requests to fly their flag, but the elected officials are against what that flag represents.

Mayor Knudsen stated that there is no doubt that the Village Council and the Village of Ridgewood are always in favor of inclusion and find that bias-based incidents or concerns to be deplorable. Mayor Knudsen explained that she cannot consider the level of empathy she feels for all people, while thinking this issue through, legally. Setting aside precedent and setting aside emotions is very difficult. There is law on the books. The ordinance passed by the Village Council mitigated that personal speech must be considered as political speech on government-owned property. Mayor Knudsen expressed a concern that a group may request to fly a flag that represents views that she personally feels to be repugnant. This then becomes suggestive, which creates a problem with saying no. Mayor Knudsen stated that while she would be happy to fly the Gay Pride Flag, she did not feel the Village Council should change the ordinance or violate the ordinance at this point, as it protects everyone and gives everyone equal opportunity under the flying of the American Flag.

Mayor Knudsen thanked the members of the Community Relations Advisory Board of Ridgewood and Glen Rock (CRAB) for their patience.

Mayor Knudsen felt that no other flag should be flown and that the ordinance should be respected. The Village is inclusionary. The Village embraces the LGBT Community and wants everyone to feel at home. Reflecting the Village Councilmembers inclusionary sprit, the Village Council will adopt a proclamation in recognition of June being Gay Pride Month.  

A discussion followed on how to proceed since the Village Ordinance states that political signs are considered temporary signs, and temporary signs are prohibited on public property. Councilman Voigt repeated that he did not see the Gay Pride Flag as political, and that he was in favor of allowing it to fly at the Municipal Building. Mr. Rogers advised the Village Council to take a position on this issue at a later date, either based upon the ordinance or not based upon the ordinance, since there is a split among the Village Councilmembers.

Mayor Knudsen turned the meeting over to Deputy Mayor Sedon and left the meeting at 9:56 p.m.

1. Parking

                        1.)        Village Hall & Library Parking Lot

Councilman Voigt stated that he asked for this discussion on the Village Hall and Library Parking Lot to be put on tonight’s agenda because there have been several complaints from the library that it is becoming exceedingly difficult for people to park in the lot when sports are taking place. Several suggestions were proposed, including signage clarity and placement, in particular directing parking for Veterans Field to the lot on the other side, which is already designated for it use, and moving some of the children’s afternoon activities to other fields.

Ms. Mailander noted that this parking problem has been an on-going challenge, especially during the spring and summer months. She suggested discussing this issue internally, which would include the Library Director.

Councilman Hache suggested that this issue be put on the Fields Committee agenda for their next meeting in June. He also suggested advising representatives from each of the sport’s organizations to inform parents of the parking restrictions. Ms. Mailander felt that education was key, especially for those who are from visiting teams. Councilman Hache felt this could be accomplished. Ms. Mailander understood that a recent GPS system address update will direct visitors to Veterans Field South instead of Village Hall.

Deputy Mayor Sedon noted that after this issue is discussed internally and after the existing policies are communicated to all the teams, the discussion will be placed back on the Village Council’s agenda.

1. Budget
2. Reward of Contract - Firehouse Roof

Ms. Mailander explained that the Village received six bids for the roof replacement at the main firehouse located at 201 East Glen Avenue. There were four nonresponding plan holders. The low bid was received from NDP Construction, LLC, out of Little Silver, New Jersey. The low bidder submitted the majority of the required bid package items, with all necessary information.

The low bidder is new to the Village; however, the Engineering Division is recommending them at a cost of $126,760.

Under questioning by Deputy Mayor Sedon, Village Engineer Christopher Rutishauser explained that there is a separate line item in the proposal for the removal and the reinstallation of the solar panels. NDP Construction, LLC bid $9,440 for the removal of the solar panels and the bid for the reinstallation of the solar panels was $10,560. Both prices are included in the total cost of $126,760.

2. Award of Contract - Rebid of School Bus Transportation

Ms. Mailander recalled that the only submission received for School Bus Transportation Services during the original bidding process was rejected by the Village Council because it was higher than what was allocated. A rebid was held, and three submissions were received. The low bidder was Durham School Services out of Hawthorne, New Jersey. The Village has a very positive history with this vendor.

3. Authorize Additional Funding for Special Attorney for RCRD

Ms. Mailander explained that additional money is needed for the services of the RCRD conflict attorney, Peter Scandariato, Esq. The original professional services contract needs to be amended from $25,000 to an amount not to exceed $50,000. Ms. Mailander will speak with Robert Rooney, Ridgewood C.F.O., as well as Mr. Scandariato, to try to determine a final total. The case should be ending shortly.

4. Award of Contract - Rock Salt

Ms. Mailander explained that this contract is for the purchase of rock salt from the Bergen County Cooperative Purchasing Program, at a cost of $56.86 per ton.

Under questioning by Deputy Mayor Sedon, Ms. Mailander stated that she will find out if there is any rock salt left over from last year. Mr. Rutishauser felt there was some rock salt left over.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Ms. Mailander stated that Ridgewood has a rock salt cost limit of $40,000.

5. Award Professional Services Contract - Historic Consultant -

                                    Schedler Property

Ms. Mailander explained that the Village needs the services of a historic architectural consultant in order to proceed with Phase I of the Zabriski-Schedler House Stabilization Project. The historic consultant will also be preparing for Phase II, which includes windows, security, fire alarm, heating, air conditioning, wiring, and plumbing, as well as the work needed for the nomination of the house in the National Register of Historic Places. The Village is still waiting to hear if the County Grant was received.   The historic consultant is the same firm the Village used for the train station, Connolly and Hickey Historical Architects. The total cost is not to exceed $50,000.

Ms. Mailander explained that as a result of the “Pay to Play” forms being delayed until after the May 10, 2017 Public Meeting, she is requesting the scheduling of a Special Public Hearing at the May 24, 2017 Work Session to allow this contract to be awarded then instead of waiting until June. The historic consultant is actually in the process of doing work now, because the application for Phase II of the County Grant is due on June 30, 2017.

Councilman Voigt questioned how the upkeep of the Zabriski-Schedler House will be funded over time. He also questioned the purposes for which the house will be used. Ms. Mailander stated that these issues can be placed on a future agenda for discussion.

1. Policy
2. Boards and Committees - Structures and By-laws

Ms. Mailander stated that most of the Boards and Committees have submitted their Structures and By-laws. The documents were presented to the Village Councilmembers for their review. The documents will be discussed at a future Village Council meeting and copies will be available at the Village Clerks Office and on the Village website.

3. Amend Chapter 212 - Parks and Recreation Areas - Prohibition of Dogs in Parks

Ms. Mailander explained that Chapter 212-29 prohibits dogs in the following parks: Citizens Park, Graydon Park, Maple Park, Pleasant Park, Twinney Pond Park, Van Neste Park, and Veteran’s Memorial Field. This amendment will add Irene Habernickel Family Park and the Schedler Park property to the list of parks that prohibit dogs. This section of the Village Code has not been updated in many years, and both of these parks are new to the Village’s park inventory. Within the last year, there have been at least three or four documented instances of dogs being either on-leash or off-leash, where there are children playing in the park or on the playground, and the dog was interacting with the children inappropriately. Last summer, a child was bitten by a dog that was on-leash. Including these two parks in the prohibition of dogs is in the Village’s best interest, so that additional unwelcome encounters between dogs and children or adults do not occur. There are other nearby places for people to allow their dogs to be off-leash, with one location being the dog park at the Wild Duck Pond County Park on East Ridgewood Avenue. This amendment will allow the Village to post signs and enforce the prohibition of dogs in these two parks, as is done at the other parks.

Councilman Hache stated that this amendment was discussed at a recent Parks, Recreation and Conservation Board (PRC) meeting. PRC Board members felt that prohibiting on-leash dogs in parks was too restrictive.

Councilwoman Walsh noted that there is a walking path at Irene Habernickel Family Park. She stated that she was in favor of allowing leashed dog at Irene Habernickel Family Park, as long as the owners pick-up after the dogs.

Deputy Mayor Sedon suggested allowing dogs on passive park lands and not on active sports fields. Mr. Rogers cautioned that the interpretation of this may become problematic, noting that active parklands become passive during the off-season. If a use is going to be restrictive, it should be identified by park or by area.

Ms. Mailander took a consensus of the Village Councilmembers which revealed that all were in favor of allowing leashed dogs in both Irene Habernickel Park and the Schedler Park property.

1. Operations
2. County OEM Shared Services Agreement - Borrowing of Equipment

Ms. Mailander explained that in order for the Village to borrow equipment from Bergen County OEM or Bergen County DPW, for both emergency and non-emergency use, the Village must enter into a Shared Services Agreement with the County. The resolution will authorize the Shared Services Agreement and will allow the Village to borrow equipment they either may not have or they need as a result of an equipment breakdown.

2. Encroachment Agreement Resolution

Ms. Mailander explained that the restaurant called The Office is being renovated and its canopy is proposed to protrude over the sidewalk into the right-of-way of Chestnut Street. The encroachments into the Village right-of-way is minimal. This type of encroachment agreement is a formality. Other right-of-way encroachments have been previously approved by the Village Council for items such as gooseneck lighting and signage.

3. Amending Chapter 190 - Land Use and Development - Illuminated Signs in the Business District

Ms. Mailander explained that there are two businesses in the CBD that currently have videos running in their storefronts to encourage people to come inside. Currently, there is a restriction in place that mandates the placement of illuminated signs a certain number of feet away from the storefront glass. These two businesses received summonses for noncompliance with this restriction.

Ms. Mailander asked for the Village Councilmembers’ input on allow these type of signs, with guidelines such as requiring the videos to be shown on a television screen. She noted that this may encourage more people to shop locally.

Councilman Hache asked to see the restriction that is already in place. He felt the signs in question were done very tastefully, and he did not want to place an additional burden or restriction on the business community. Councilman Hache also felt it was important to restrict signs that could be considered obnoxious.

Deputy Mayor Sedon noted that the ordinance was written before technology was involved to the point it is involved today. He asked for a policy recommendation to be prepared for the Village Councilmember’s review and further discussion.

Under questioning by Deputy Mayor Sedon, Mr. Rogers stated that in order to suspend the issuance of summonses for this violation, the Village Council will need to adopt a resolution. All Councilmembers agreed with this action and Mr. Rogers stated that he will draft this resolution.

5. REVIEW OF MAY 10, 2017 REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING

Ms. Mailander stated that next week there will be five proclamations including National Cancer Survivors Day; Emergency Medical Services Week; Proclaim May as Mental Health Month; Proclaim May as Older Americans Month; and Proclaim June as Gay Pride Month. There will be swearing-in of Firefighter Dane Knudsen and a swearing-in of Firefighter Shelby Taylor. There will be a Scoping Hearing on the Green Acres Diversion on South Broad Street.

The following ordinance will be adopted: Establish a CAP Bank.

The 2017 Budget Hearing will be held, which includes an overview of the 2017 Budget; Village Council’s Comments; the Public Hearing on the 2017 Budget; and the consideration of adoption of the 2017 Budget.

Resolutions for Ridgewood Water include: Award Professional Services Contract - Engineering Services for Suez Corrosion Control.

The following ordinances are scheduled for introduction: Amend Chapter 260 - Trees and Shrubs; and Amend Chapter 212 - Parks and Recreation Areas - Prohibition of Off-leash Dogs in Certain Parks.

The scheduled public hearings include: General Capital Ordinance; Water Utility Capital Ordinance; Parking Utility Capital Ordinance; Amend Chapter 265 - Vehicles and Traffic - Parking Restrictions - Bogert Avenue and Cambridge Road; Amend Chapter 265 - Vehicles and Traffic - Parking Restrictions - Pomander Walk; and Construction of Handicapped Ramp at Irene Habernickel Family Park.

Resolutions include: Title 59 Approval - RFP for Parking Kiosk Pilot Program; Designate Graydon Pool - Historic Designation; Authorize Shared Services Agreement - Borrowing of Equipment from the County; Suspension of Ordinance for Certain Illuminated Signs in Retail Establishments; Award of Contract - Firehouse Roof; Award of Contract - Rebid of School Bus Transportation - Day Camp; Authorize Additional Funding for Special Attorney for RCRD Lawsuit; Award of Contract Under County Contract - Rock Salt; Proclaim June 2^nd as National Gun Violence Awareness Day; and Authorize Addition of World War I Ridgewood Resident Veteran Killed in Action to Memorial Plaque.

6. MANAGER’S REPORT

Recycling - Ms. Mailander stated that the Village was able to modify the pricing offered in the contract for recycling disposal. Based on these changes, the maximum exposure and revenue reduction is now $111,398 versus the $115,177 originally calculated. Since current market conditions are more fruitful, the projected revenue for 2017 may drop possibly by $46,158 instead of $70,432. Ms. Mailander thanked the Recycling Division, especially Johanna Luttrell, Recycling Program Aide, for all their hard work.

Graydon Pool Seasonal Badges - Ms. Mailander explained that seasonal badges are available for purchase online from CommunityPass and can be accessed by clicking on the picture of Graydon Pool on the homepage of the Village website. The Graydon Pool Office will also be open Saturday, May 13, 2017 and Saturday, May 20, 2017 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon for walk-in badge sales. Graydon Pool season begins June 3, 2017 from 10:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Important Public Meetings - Ms. Mailander stated that on May 8, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. there will be a Bergen County Freeholders Review of the Recommended 2016 Historic Preservation Trust Fund Grants. Included in this is a recommendation for the Zebriskie-Schedler House Phase I. On May 10, 2017, there will be the Public Hearing for the 2017 Municipal Budget. Budget newsletters explaining the budget arrived in each home yesterday. Also on May 10, 2017, there will be a Scoping Hearing for the Green Acres Diversion Issue, which will legitimize the sale of the South Broad Street Program land. This hearing will be included in the Village Council’s public meeting and the public is invited to comment on this diversion.

Dog Rabies Clinic - Ms. Mailander stated that there will be a free Dog Rabies Clinic at the Recycling Center on East Glen Avenue on May 10, 2017 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Microchipping will be available for the first 75 dogs.

Hazardous Waste Disposal - Ms. Mailander stated that The Bergen County Utilities Authority will be collecting household hazardous waste materials on Saturday, May 13, 2017 at Bergen County Campgaw Reservation in Mahwah, NJ, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., rain or shine. This service is free and county identification is required. Items accepted are car batteries, aerosol cans, fire extinguishers, florescent lightbulbs, propane gas cylinders, kerosene, used motor oil, insecticides, and gasoline.

7. COUNCIL REPORTS

Financial Advisory Committee (FAC) - Councilman Voigt reported that the FAC met on Monday, May 1^st. The FAC is in the process of determining the committee’s goals for the year and these goals should be up on the website shortly. The FAC would like to make a presentation to the Village Council on May 24, 2017 regarding an analysis of fees and fines. This analysis compares how the Village’s fees and fines compare to other municipalities and whether or not the fees and fines are appropriate, related to the cost of administrating them.

Planning Board - Councilman Voigt reported that the Planning Board met on May 2, 2017. The Dayton Broad Street Development Site Plan presentation focused on reviewing the parking and traffic in and around the development. The developers have agreed to update and upgrade the sidewalks, as well as the street in front of the site, including the ramps required under the Americans with Disabilities Act. There will be 187 parking spaces on the site, 53 of which will be unassigned for the 93-unit development. Some of the issues and concerns expressed by the Planning Board members centered around the effect of the development on the East Ridgewood Avenue/Broad Street intersection and the effect of the development and the new garage proposed for the Hudson Street area in terms of pedestrian and traffic safety. The Dayton Broad Street Development is scheduled for a site plan vote on June 20, 2017.

Councilman Voigt stated that there will be another Planning Board meeting on May 16, 2017. The KS Broad Street Development, located at the corner of Broad Street and Franklin Avenue, and a presentation on the Enclave Site Review are on the agenda. There should be a vote on the KS Broad Street Development Site Plan that evening. There are continued concerns regarding the Franklin Avenue/Broad Street intersection all the way down to the intersection at Franklin Avenue and Maple Avenue. These concerns include traffic light upgrades, and the downstream effects of upgrading only one out of the four traffic lights in that particular traffic corridor. The desire is to upgrade all four of these traffic lights. To accomplish this, substantial help is needed from the developer and from Bergen County in order to alleviate pedestrian and traffic safety issues along the Franklin Avenue corridor. This includes developer contributions for traffic light upgrades themselves, both at Franklin Avenue and Broad Street and Franklin Avenue and Maple Avenue. The Planning Board will likely vote on the KS Broad Development Application on May 16, 2017.

Ridgewood Environmental Advisory Committee (REAC) - Deputy Mayor Sedon reported that REAC will be meeting on Tuesday, May 9, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. in the Garden Room.

Shade Tree Commission - Deputy Mayor Sedon reported that the Shade Tree Commission will not be meeting on Tuesday, May 9^th. Instead, there will be a lecture on Urban Forestry and Street Trees, which will take place at the Ridgewood Public Library starting at 7:30 p.m. The presenter at this lecture will be Nick Polunin, an Associate Professor in the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources at Rutgers University and a Certified Tree Expert. The discussion will include sustainable tree management and the challenges facing urban trees, including care and maintenance.

Graydon Pool - Deputy Mayor Sedon reported that the April sales for discounted Graydon Pool badges have increased substantially from 2016’s April sales that did not include the discount; from 199 in 2016 to 888 in 2017.

Parks, Recreation and Conservation Board (PRC) - Councilman Hache reminded everyone that tickets are still available for the Party in the Park, the 125^th celebration of Ridgewood High School, to be held on May 19, 2017 at Veterans Park. This event is being hosted by the Ridgewood High School Alumni Association and is open to the whole community. There will be dancing and Celebrity DJ Nick Cannon will be there. The next PRC Board meeting will be held on May 23, 2017.

Fields Committee - Councilman Hache stated that the next Fields Committee meeting will be held on June 5, 2017 at 7:30 p.m. at the Stable

Central Business District Advisory Committee - Councilman Hache reported that the next Central Business District Advisory Committee meeting will be held on Thursday, May 4, 2017 at 7:30 p.m. in the Garden Room.

8. PUBLIC COMMENTS

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

Tommy Damiano, 274 South Broad Street, stated that the Broad Street Fair has been postponed and will be rescheduled for either June or July. He is currently working with Ms. Mailander.

Regarding the flying of the Gay Pride Flag, Mr. Damiano reported that, at their April meeting, the Ridgewood Guild voted unanimously to raise the Gay Pride Flag. The members of the Ridgewood Guild suggested buying flags and displaying them in merchants’ windows. A suggestion was also made to fly the Gay Pride Flag for two weeks at Village Hall and two weeks at the park.

Mr. Damiano stated that he was approached last summer about a local merchant reward program that was different from the Municipal Card program presented this evening. He felt that additional research is necessary since there are different programs available. Mr. Damiano did feel this was a good concept and, as the business owner of Mango Jam, he would participate. He pointed out that the Ridgewood Guild already has a card that offers a 10% discount to customers of 53 merchants, and he understood that the Chamber of Commerce also has a rewards card, so something would have to be worked out.

Mr. Damiano stated that he was not in favor of neon signs, backlit signs or televisions up against the windows of businesses in the CBD. Mr. Damiano stated that some of the members of the Ridgewood Guild felt that the Building Department was being too strict regarding what can be put outside of their stores. Eliminating all of the product outside the stores takes away from the charm. Mr. Damiano did not think a flat screen television placed in a storefront window is charming; however, when store owners embellish their facades with some product, it adds to the charm of the Village and entices customers to come into the store. He noted that there is a fine line, as no one wants racks of clothes outside. Mr. Damiano pointed out that the Building Department denied a request from Greenbaum Interiors to hold a tent sale. Mr. Damiano felt that a tent sale at this location, which is not downtown or near the historic district, should not be considered offensive.

Mr. Damiano stated that he was disappointed with the design of the parking garage presented this evening, as he felt it looked too much like a pre-fab parking garage. He preferred the design presented by Desmond.

Mayor Sedon pointed out that the proposal this evening was a starting point to start community discussion on the design of the garage. The garage proposed this evening is not the one that will be built; it will be improved.

Kathryn Schmidt, 123 South Irving Street, stated that she understood concerns regarding the precedent that would be set if the Gay Pride Flag was permitted to be displayed at Village Hall. However, she questioned if this was any different than the Village drawing a blue line down Maple Avenue to recognize police officers. The Rainbow Flag is the symbol of the Gay Pride Movement, and the fact that it is a flag is incidental. Ms. Schmidt pointed out that LGBT colleagues can be fired from their jobs for being gay in 30 states, so the flag is political, in some sense. It is a different kind of statement than reinforcing something that the nation overall already accepts. Ms. Schmidt suggested that the Village needs to be more obvious about supporting inclusion. If more municipalities step-up to say that they support inclusion, it may lead to more State and National support of inclusion and the passing of the Employment Nondiscrimination Act.

Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated his approval of the proposed garage design coming in at a cost of $8million dollars, as opposed to a previous design which came in at a cost of $12.3 million. Mr. Loving expressed a concern that parking revenues will not pay for this entire garage, leaving an additional burden on taxpayers.

Mr. Loving pointed out that the drone-flyover video presentation depicted a number of empty parking spaces, and he questioned the time and date this video was filmed. Mr. Loving stated that he was not convinced of the need for the parking garage and he urged the Village Council to study this issue further.

Mr. Loving urged the Village Council to look at the additional cost per space for the parking garage when the current parking spaces are included in the calculations. It brings the cost from $33,000 per space to $48,000 per space.

Mr. Loving understood that the Graydon Pool membership numbers did not include out-of-town residents and he asked the Village Council to report this number, as well as the total membership count for 2016 at the next meeting.

Tess Giuliani, 174 Union Street, felt that the parking garage presented this evening was unattractive. She described the design of a previously presented parking garage as magnificent.

Mike Velicu, 250 Hope Street, spoke of his observation of vehicles with CBD parking stickers parking on Cottage Place. He urged the Village Council to find ways to communicate, to educate and to enforce employee parking restrictions.

Ms. Mailander stated that she will provide a breakdown of the Graydon Pool membership numbers for 2016 and 2017 for the next meeting.

Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that the drone was flown over the location of the proposed garage on a Tuesday morning at 10:00 a.m./10:30 a.m., which is not the busiest time for the CBD.

Councilman Hache pointed out that the drone was flown during the school system’s spring recess, and that is also a slow time for the CBD.

Councilman Hache stated that looking at the incremental cost, the parking garage price per space is still below what was previously proposed. He noted that the original proposal back in June, 2016 had a proposed cost of $12.3 million for 325 spaces. This structure did not fit on the site and was rejected. The same builder came back with a smaller version that fit on the lot, at a proposed cost of $10.5 million for 240 spaces. The current presentation has a proposed cost of $8 million for 240 spaces, with a proposed cost after aesthetic improvements of $8.6 million. He felt the difference in cost savings makes this design a worthwhile venture to explore.

9. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION

Deputy Village Clerk Donna Jackson read Resolution #17-125 to go into Closed Session as follows:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10. ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Hache, seconded by Councilman Sedon, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Work Session was adjourned at 11:02 p.m.

_____________________________

                                                                                                                     Susan Knudsen      

                                                                                                                           Mayor

_____________________________

            Donna M. Jackson

          Deputy Village Clerk