Written on 20 March 2018.

20170705 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 JULY 5, 2017 AT 7:30 PM

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

Mayor Knudsen called the meeting to order at 7:30 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. At roll call, the following were present: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, and Mayor Knudsen. Councilman Hache and Councilwoman Walsh were absent. Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney; and Donna M. Jackson, Deputy 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, all first responders, and NYPD Detective Miosotis Familia, who was recently killed in the line of duty.

COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

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

Bill McCandless, 71 Ridge Road, stated that he was very pleased with the level of detail that was contained in the Garber Square Traffic Study presented by Patrolman Ray Tarino at the June 28, 2017 Village Council meeting. He was surprised by the volume and duration of traffic observed by Patrolman Tarino. He thanked the Village Council and Village Engineer for their handling of the Garber Square traffic congestion, and he urged the Village Council to take action to improve this quality-of-life issue.

Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, urged the Village Council to require a minimum font size for any PowerPoint presentations shown at Village Council meetings, so that everyone in the audience can see them clearly. Mr. Loving also suggested using technology to deliver these presentations to the smart phones or tablets of people in the audience.

Hope Fallin, 275 North Murray Avenue, expressed safety concerns with the North Murray/West Ridgewood Avenue intersection. Ms. Fallin presented the Village Council with photographs of her car after an accident in May, 2017 at this intersection. Ms. Fallin’s car was pushed into the crosswalk, because vehicles lined up for Ridge School were standing all the way up to the fire hydrant. This is against NJ State Law, which requires that standing or parked vehicles be at least 10 feet away from a fire hydrant and 25 feet away from a crosswalk. These vehicles were also standing very close to the intersection, effecting sight distance.

Ms. Fallin stated that she met with Village Manager, Heather Mailander and Police Sergeant John Chuck, and discussed “do not block the box” restrictions. Ms. Fallin also suggested the painting of a yellow line, three feet off of the curb, which is in place at other schools. Ms. Fallin urged the Village Council to look for a solution to this safety issue. Mayor Knudsen pointed out that this issue is on tonight’s agenda for discussion.

Jane Remis, 118 Madison Place, presented the Village Council with photographs of the North Murray/West Ridgewood Avenue intersection.

Ann Marie Agnello, 31 Clinton Avenue, stated that for over 50 years, Clinton Avenue has been closed during school hours without any incidents. Ms. Agnello asked for clarity from the Village Council, prior to the vote on July 12, 2017, as to what the ordinance actually states. Ms. Agnello stated that Clinton Avenue residents are requesting that the ordinance reflect the following:

Clinton Avenue will be closed to through traffic during the times students are walking to and from school
There will be no restrictions to the residents using Clinton Avenue at any time, even during closure for students
Those doing business on Clinton Avenue will continue to be allowed access and to park on the street without restrictions, which includes visitors (family, friends, workers, delivery services, Access Link for the disabled, public workers, etc.)
Clinton Avenue is not a narrow street and residents should not be restricted to one-side-of-the-street parking

Ms. Agnello noted that residents of Clinton Avenue have proactively met with the majority of the Village Council regarding Ridge School, and have proven to be a rational, thoughtful and knowledgeable group of residents. The residents of Clinton Avenue look forward to the Village Council clarifying the proposed ordinances and providing this information before the July 12^th meeting.

There being no further comments, Mayor Knudsen closed the public portion of the meeting.

Mayor Knudsen stated that she will look into increasing the font size for PowerPoint presentations. Ms. Mailander stated that she will make sure the traffic study is put on the Village website.

Mayor Knudsen stated that the ordinance for Clinton Avenue only states the hours and days of closure. It makes no mention about who may or may not come and go.

Discussion

Ridgewood Water

Award of Contract - Lafayette Reservoir Improvements

Ms. Mailander explained that H2M Associates, Inc., is the engineer of record for this project. H2M Associates, Inc. have prepared construction documents, reviewed all bids, and will assist Ridgewood Water with administering this construction project. Two bids were received. The lowest, qualified bidder was G. Meyer Group, located in Bradley Beach, NJ, with a total amount of $354,175.00. Funding is available in the Water Capital Budget.

Award of Professional Services Contract - Cedar Hill Reservoir Improvements

Ms. Mailander explained that three proposals were received; one of which presented an updated proposal, which included a $5,000 allowance for potential survey work required at the site. The lowest proposal for the design and construction administration of the improvements at the Cedar Hill Reservoir and site located in Wyckoff, NJ was D.J. Egarian at a cost of $40,000. Funding for the project is in the Water Capital Budget.

Acquisition of Property

Ms. Mailander explained that there will be a Water Capital Ordinance in the amount of $1,600,000, to provide for the acquisition of the Elks Club property, as well as a resolution to amend the 2017 Water Capital Budget to include this project.

Parking
Train Station Parking

Mayor Knudsen explained that the Village’s Traffic Consultant will present several different plans for review and discussion at the Village Council Work Session scheduled for August 2, 2017.

Municipal Complex Parking Lot

Ms. Mailander explained that she met with employees of the Village Library, the Village’s Traffic Consultant, and the Village Engineer, to discuss possibilities for parking in the municipal complex, which fills almost to capacity many times during the day. It was suggested that six parking spaces, located adjacent to the playground, be designated for playground use only, since children frequent this area. All the spaces in the municipal complex parking lot will be reserved for patrons, staff and visitors to Village Hall, the Library, Kasschau Shell, and the playground, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Sports groups will be asked to park at Graydon South, on the other side of Veterans Field, or, during non-summer months, in the Graydon Pool parking lot. A suggestion was also made to make the parking spaces in front of Village Hall on Maple Avenue, two-hour parking spaces between the hours of 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. all days, except Sundays and holidays. Another suggestion was to reserve some of the parking spaces in front of the Library and in the middle section of the lot for short-term parking (one hour or less).

Mayor Knudsen suggested prohibiting sports groups from parking in the municipal complex parking lot at all times, not just between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Ms. Mailander explained that, currently, the GPS location for the Graydon South Parking Lot is given to all the coaches and visiting teams. There are times, however, when sports groups still park in the municipal complex parking lot. A sign will be posted on the top of the Village Hall driveway directing sports groups to Graydon South, and another sign will be posted at Graydon South.

Councilman Sedon stated that the municipal lot is busy in the evening, as well, with all the activities occurring at Village Hall and the Library.

It was the consensus of the Village Council to continue to discuss this issue at the August 2, 2017 Village Council Work Session. Ms. Mailander will get input from the Library staff, as well.

Budget
Authorize Release of Cash Bond

Ms. Mailander explained that the Village has received a request from Daniel Buck, Gregor Industries, of Huntington, NY, for the release of the $20,247.33 cash bond being held by the Village to ensure site improvements required by the Zoning Board of Adjustment for the new Capital One Bank facility at 10 Godwin Avenue. According to the Village Engineer, the required site improvements have been satisfactorily completed and the funds can be released.

A resolution will be prepared for the release of this cash bond.

Acceptance of Donation - Board of Education - Stigma Free Initiative

Ms. Mailander explained that the Ridgewood Board of Education has donated a check in the amount of $322 towards the “Stigma Free Initiative” from proceeds obtained through a Wellness Concert at George Washington Middle School. Kevin Feeley, the Crisis Intervention Counselor for the Board of Education, has been working with the Ridgewood Health Department on various initiatives for the “Stigma Free Initiative” including hosting a Mental Health First Aid Class for students, and assisting with promoting this important initiative.

A resolution will be prepared accepting this donation.

Mayor Knudsen asked for a note of thanks to be sent to Mr. Feeley. Mayor Knudsen also thanked Dawn Cetrulo, Supervisor of the Health Department, for her work on this initiative.

Blue and White Collar Salary Ordinances

Amendments to Salary Ordinances

Ms. Mailander explained that the Village has settled with the Blue and White Collar Unions. The unions have been without a contract since January 1, 2016. A four-year agreement, from January, 2016 through December, 2019 has been reached. Ms. Mailander described some of the highlights, as follows:

Employees will receive straight time when working over 35 hours, but under 40 hours per week (previously, employees earned time-and-a-half when working over 35 hours per week). Any hours worked over 40 hours per week will be paid at time-and-a-half.
The compensatory time option for overtime has been discontinued to ensure proper staffing levels at all times.
Vacations have been capped at 25 days for all new hires (it is currently 30 days for existing hires). Any employees that have been with the Village over 30 years and are above 30 days, will stay where they are at and will not continue to accrue time.
A one-week notification for any vacation time is required.
Two new dental options were added. The Village will pay $25 per month and the employee will pay the differential. The employee will have the choice of four different plans.
New employees hired after July 1^st will receive half of their accumulated sick leave with a cap at $15,000
A sick leave buy-back program has been implemented. As an option, employees may buy back half of their unused allowance for that year, up to seven days. Employees will receive this pay within the first 45 days of the following year.
The percentages agreed upon are:

2016: Anyone hired before November 1, 2013 will receive a 1.5% lump sum payment, which will adjust all salary scales as of December 31^st.
2017: 1.5%
2018: 1.75%
2019: 2%

2016: Anyone hired after November 1, 2013 will be subject to an eleven-step scale and will receive a 1% lump sum payment, which will adjust all salary scales as of December 31^st.
2017: 1%
2018: 1.5%
2019: 2%

Step increases will be given either on January 1^st or July 1^st instead of on the anniversary date of hire.
Longevity has been eliminated for all new hires, as of July 1, 2017.
A time keeping requirement will be implemented.
A Blue Collar Yard Waste worker’s day will be done when their route is done. Yard Waste pick-up runs from the third Monday in June to the second Friday in October.
The Blue Collar second shift differential is $1.50 per hour and the Blue Collar third shift differential is $1.55 per hour
Tool allowance has been increased to a flat right of $550 per year
All Blue Collar employees will be issued an ID badge

Ms. Mailander thanked the union representatives for agreeing to these affordable and realistic settlements.

Mayor Knudsen thanked Ms. Mailander for all the time and effort she put into reaching these settlements.

Ms. Mailander thanked the team who worked with her: Robert Rooney, C.F.O.; Christopher Rutishauser, Village Engineer; Stephen Sanzari, Treasurer; and Richard Calbi, Director of Operations.

Ms. Mailander stated that there were titles added to the Salary Ordinance. Also, calculation errors were found, which resulted in an adjustment being made to a title within the Health Department.

Policy

Report on Ridge School Traffic Solutions

Ms. Mailander stated that she met with Village Engineer, Christopher Rutishauser, Ridgewood Police Sergeant, John Chuck, Daniel Fishbein, Superintendent of Schools, and Jean Schoenlank, Principal of Ridge School, to discuss the traffic conditions in the Ridge School area. The goal is to get more of the vehicles off of the street and onto school property at pick-up time in a timelier fashion.

Ms. Mailander and Mr. Rutishauser felt that “don’t block the box” signage between Murray Avenue and West Ridgewood Avenue, as suggested by resident Hope Fallin, was a great idea and an ordinance will be prepared to this effect. In addition, the Village will enact Title 39, of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Statutes, on all school properties. This will allow the Police Department to issue tickets to drivers who are parking improperly. This idea was welcomed by Dr. Fishbein.

Dr. Fishbein and Ms. Schoenlank were also in agreement with having single-queue traffic going into the parking lot, and bollards being set-up to create a split. Vehicles picking-up students in kindergarten through third grade will be directed to the right, lining up by the red zone along the sidewalk area. Vehicles picking-up students in fourth and fifth grade will line up in the staff parking lot. Vehicles picking-up students from both these groups will line up in the red zone, along the sidewalk area. There is a crosswalk in this area, and it is recommended that an additional crossing guard be hired. It was also recommended that vehicles be permitted to enter the red zone at 2:55 p.m., instead of 3:00 p.m. Ms. Mailander noted that this procedure is only recommended for pick-up time, because parents arrive at various times when dropping-off their children, and the queue is not as much of an issue.

Mr. Rutishauser explained that the recommendations will result in more vehicles being off the street and on school property. The presence of a crossing guard will help direct the children, as well as serve as an authority figure, to encourage compliance.

Councilman Voigt questioned whether the “do not block the box” will be delineated using yellow striping on the roads. Mr. Rutishauser stated that he will discuss this with the Police Department. The ordinance does define the limit of a “do not block the box”. Mr. Rutishauser felt the first step would be to identify it by signage only, as West Ridgewood Avenue is quite wide. Ms. Mailander added that Ms. Schoenlank will educate the parents on the procedure at the beginning of the school year.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Rutishauser stated that there will be approximately 10 feet of extra “safe area” on either curb, because the crosswalk and the sidewalks block vehicles from obstructing this area. This area will be first defined by signage, public education, and enforcement.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Rutishauser stated that the queue on West Ridgewood Avenue, going northeast from North Murray Avenue, should be reduced by the proposed recommendations. Mr. Rutishauser noted that solving the traffic issues at Ridge School will be an evolving process. If these recommendations do not solve the problems, other suggestions will be considered.

Councilman Sedon thanked everyone involved in the resolution of this long standing traffic issue.

Under questioning by Councilman Sedon, Mr. Rutishauser explained that bollards and directional signage will be placed on the Ridge School property to delineate the lanes proposed. Vehicles queued-up in the staff parking lot should not interfere with staff leaving for the day, as this does not occur until student dismissal is over. If a problem occurs, adjustments will be made.

Councilman Sedon liked the recommendations. He especially thanked Dr. Fishbein and Ms. Schoenlank for their efforts.

Mr. Rutishauser pointed out that there will be additional costs to the Village, including an additional crossing guard and signage.

At Mayor Knudsen’s request, Mr. Rutishauser described how the “don’t block the box” area will be delineated from the easterly right-of-way limit line to the westerly right-of-way limit line of North Murray Street and South Murray Street, using a displayed photograph. Mayor Knudsen expressed a concern that this will not solve the traffic issues. At Mayor Knudsen’s request, Mr. Rutishauser stated that he will prepare a sketch of this area for the Village Council’s additional review.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Ms. Mailander stated that the crossing guard will cost the Village approximately $4,500. However, since this cost is based on both drop-off and pick-up times, this cost may be reduced, since the crossing guard is only needed for pick-up times at this location. Ms. Mailander will get this information for the Village Council.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Rutishauser stated that if the provisions of Title 39 are not made applicable to Board of Education properties, there may be problems with enforcement. Village Attorney, Matthew Rogers explained that this action will clear the way for enforcement. Mr. Rogers noted that the school parking lot is a public parking lot, so it does not need the same enforcement requirements applicable to a private parking lot. Mr. Rutishauser added that the ordinance will make the public aware that there will be a change in the enforcement process related to this lot.

This issue will continue to be discussed at the August 2, 2017 Village Council Work Session.

Enrollment of Unlawful Students in Ridgewood Schools

Mr. Rogers explained that one little aspect of information is pending from the Administrator Office of the Courts, through the Central Municipal Court. There has been a number of municipalities that have adopted ordinances similar to Ridgewood, and there has been some feedback from the State with regard to aspects of preempting and just how far the ordinances can go.

Fee for Use of Parks

Ms. Mailander explained that the Parks and Recreation Department has received many requests for the use of Village parks from for-profit agencies, and the Village is looking into establishing fees for these types of groups to use a park. In the future, fees may also be assessed for police protection, insurance, and garbage and recycling pick-up. The Village is currently in the process of surveying other municipalities that charge similar fees.

This issue will be discussed further at the August 2, 2017 Village Council Work Session.

Options for Glenwood Road Railroad Crossing

Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that the time for comments from the public on the Glenwood Road Railroad Crossing to the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT), expires on Friday, July 7, 2017. The contact person at the NJDOT is Barbara Foran. All the information related to this request for comments can be found on the Village website. Ms. Mailander noted that many residents have already submitted their comments.

Councilman Voigt expressed concerns that the NJDOT will make a decision without knowing potential issues such as, a negative impact on the traffic flow on surrounding streets, or the concerns of the Borough of Ho-Ho-Kus. Ms. Mailander stated that a time frame has not yet been determined for a final decision; however, she will try to find out more information. Ms. Mailander noted that the input requested by the NJDOT may impact their decision.

Mayor Knudsen thanked all the residents who submitted comments to the NJDOT. The residents provided a wealth of information and important input.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Rutishauser explained that he spoke with Barbara Foran of the NJDOT and requested incident reports. In the meantime, Ms. Foran gave Mr. Rutishauser the following statistics from the Federal Railroad Administration Data Base:

the last fatal accident at the Glenwood Road Railroad Crossing was in 1985, involving an 18-year-old resident
the most recent incident where a vehicle was struck by a train was in 2014; prior to that, a vehicle was struck by a train in 2007

Mr. Rutishauser explained that the incident reports may be a bit confusing. A conductor may have observed a vehicle making an illegal, “k” turn on the railroad tracks, but failed to submit a formal report. Ms. Foran will check to see what documentation is available to substantiate these types of observations.

Mayor Knudsen spoke of the importance of receiving the reports from the statistics cited above from the Borough of Ho-Ho-Kus, where the accidents occurred.

Ms. Mailander pointed out that any comments from the Village Council also need to be submitted by July 7, 2017. She suggested that this response be in the form of an e-mail from Mayor Knudsen on behalf of the Village Council. The Village Councilmembers present made the following comments:

Councilman Voigt - Glenwood Road should remain open as a two-way traffic street.

Councilman Sedon - Glenwood Road should remain open as a two-way traffic street in the beginning, with the less invasive approach of the installation of signage.

Mayor Knudsen - Glenwood Road should remain open as a two-way traffic street. Mayor Knudsen also felt that any formal position should include recommendations for additional signage, and working with Ho-Ho-Kus on enforcement, including raising the fees for traffic tickets. Mr. Rogers explained that a municipality cannot regulate violations that may occur on the train tracks; however, if an infraction is observed, Ho-Ho-Kus can issue a summons.

Mr. Rutishauser noted that Ms. Foran suggested that the Village consider installing a single or double yellow center line stripe on Glenwood Hill. The roadway was resurfaced approximately one year ago. This will help keep motorists in their travel lane.

Mr. Rutishauser noted that conversations he had with State Assemblyman David Russo indicated that residents have been in contact with Assemblyman Russo’s office concerning this issue. Assemblyman Russo was pleased that the information on contacting NJDOT was on the Village’s website.

Ms. Mailander will prepare a draft letter and distribute it to all the Village Councilmembers for their review and approval, for submission before the July 7, 2017 deadline.

Operations
Major Soil Permit - Chestnut Village

Ms. Mailander explained that the applicant, 240 Associates, has applied for a major soil moving permit as part of their project at 154-174 Chestnut Street, also known as Chestnut Village. The proposed project has received Planning Board approval. The Village Council is being asked to consider a resolution approving the major soil permit for this location, with the conditions discussed at the Planning Board meeting, which include a performance bond; a truck route to be approved by the Village Engineer and the Police Chief; an escrow of $5,000 for engineering inspection and oversight; work being permitted only between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; the prohibition of trucks in any of the Village’s designated school zones during the start of school or school dismissal; the prohibition of trucks on either Robinson Lane or Douglas Place; all trucks must exit the site by heading south on Chestnut Street to Franklin Avenue; and if traffic control is needed, the contractor must pay the cost of an off-duty Ridgewood Police Traffic Officer.

Councilman Voigt asked if trucks will be turning left or right onto Franklin Avenue from Chestnut Street, as making a left turn would be very difficult for a large truck in the heavy traffic that occurs later in the day. Councilman Voigt felt that the work hours should be from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. to avoid this issue. Mr. Rutishauser noted that most construction sites work either a 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. shift, or an 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. shift. He noted that the Village does not yet know where any material removed from the site is going. The site will also be importing material; however, the applicant has not decided who the supplier is or from what direction they would approach the site. Mr. Rutishauser spoke of the importance of restricting traffic on Robinson Lane and Douglas Place, since these streets are tight, narrow streets. The headquarters of the Ridgewood Emergency Services Department is also located on Douglas Place.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Rutishauser stated that he will calculate the number of truck trips anticipated. These truck trips will happen over the duration of the project, not all at once. Mr. Rutishauser will work with the applicant’s engineer to provide an approximate number.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Rutishauser explained that if truck drivers turn right onto Franklin Avenue, they would encounter two issues: a trestle with an 11-foot height restriction; or being required to make a left turn onto North Broad Street, bringing them through the Central Business District (CBD). If the truck drivers turn left onto Franklin Avenue, possibly with the assistance of a Traffic Control Officer, they can head down Franklin Avenue, make a left turn onto Maple Avenue, and then travel to Route 208.

Ms. Mailander explained that the resolution will set the parameters for when the soil can be moved.

Mayor Knudsen asked that the soil calculations be included in the resolution.

REVIEW OF JULY 12, 2017 REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING AGENDA

Ms. Mailander stated that there will be the swearing in of Police Sergeant Salvatore D’Amico.

The following ordinance for Ridgewood Water is scheduled for introduction: Water Capital Ordinance - Purchase of Elks Club Property.

Resolutions for Ridgewood Water include: Award Contract - Lafayette Reservoir Improvements; Award Professional Services Contract - Cedar Hill Reservoir Improvements; Amend 2017 Water Capital Budget for Purchase of Property; Authorize Lease of Property for Co-Location of Wireless Telecommunications Antennas; and Award Contract - Polyphosphate Pumps for Corrosion Control.

The following ordinances are scheduled for introduction: Unlawful Enrollment of Students in Ridgewood Public Schools; Blue Collar Union Salary Ordinance; White Collar Union Salary Ordinance; Amend Chapter 265 - Vehicles and Traffic - No Stopping on Portion of West Ridgewood Avenue*; Change to Garber Square Bike Lanes; and Enact Title 39 on All Public School Properties.

*Note: A discussion was held on a suggestion made at the previous Village Council meeting to allow parking on Clinton Avenue between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. A decision was made not to change the hours stated in the current ordinance, and only amend it to state when the road will be open.

The scheduled public hearings include: Amend Chapter 265 - Vehicles and Traffic - Establish Stop Signs at Upper Boulevard and Glenwood Road; Amend Chapter 222 - Power Tools, Landscaping, and Yard Maintenance Equipment; Authorize Special Emergency Appropriation - Master Plan Revision; Amend Chapter 265 - Vehicles and Traffic - Hours for Closure of Clinton Avenue to Through Traffic; and Amend Chapter 260 - Trees and Shrubs.

Resolutions include: Authorize Release of Escrow - Capital One Bank; Accept Donation from Ridgewood Board of Education for Stigma Free Initiative; Approve Major Soil Permit - 240 Associates - Chestnut Village; Award Contract - Central Valet Services; Declare Fire Department Property Surplus; Appoint Members to Schedler Park Ad Hoc Committee; Title 59 Approval - Paint Curbs Yellow; Award Contract Under State Contract - Tires; Award Contract Under State Contract for Police Handguns, Holsters and Magazine Pouches; Award Contract Under State Contract for Two Police Patrol SUV’s; Award Contract Under State Contract - Lifts and Support Stands - Fleet Services; Award Contract Under National Joint Powers Alliance - Front End Loaders with Snowplows; Award Contract Under National Joint Powers Alliance - Two Sanitation Chassis and Cabs; Endorse Bergen County Historic Preservation Trust Fund Grant Application - The James Rose Center; and Appoint Clean Communities Coordinator; and Appoint Interim Recycling Program Coordinator.

MANAGER’S REPORT

July 4^th Fireworks - Ms. Mailander stated that the July 4^th celebration was held yesterday. The theme was, “Honoring Those Who Serve”. The all-volunteer, July 4^th Committee was led by Leigh Gilsenan and Tara Masterson, who did an outstanding job coordinating everything, including the parade and the fireworks. The fireworks were amazing and the weather was wonderful, which encouraged a great attendance.

Glenwood Railroad Crossing - Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that the deadline to submit comments about the Glenwood Railroad Crossing is July 7, 2017. Information can be found on the Village website.

Kasschau Memorial Shell - Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that every Tuesday and Thursday evening at 8:30 p.m., there is a performance at the Kasschau Memorial Shell. Bus transportation will be provided, sponsored by Age Friendly Ridgewood, to the Kasschau Memorial Shell for Ridgecrest and SHARE residents on July 18^th and July 25^th. Chairs will also be provided. Ms. Mailander invited all senior citizens to make reservations by calling the Village Manager’s Office at 201-670-5500, Extension 203. On July 6^th, Captain Jack will be performing Billy Joel songs. A complete performance schedule can be found on the Village website.

Graydon Pool - Ms. Mailander reported that Graydon Pool has been very busy this summer. Events included: the Ridgewood Public Schools Fifth Grade End-of-Year Celebration; a Meet-and-Greet Session for the Swim Team on June 3^rd and June 17th; free monthly concerts, with the next concert being held on July 9^th from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., with a performance of jazz standards by Matt Marano; “Movie on the Beach” with the next one being held on Friday July 14^th, showing the movie “Mulan”, with a fee of $5.00 per person, or free to any child wearing their day camp tee shirt.

Ridgewood Guild - Ms. Mailander announced 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.

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. The next movie, “Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory”, will be on July 12^th. The movie is free and candy will be provided for the children. Please bring a chair.

COUNCIL REPORTS

Shade Tree Commission - Councilman Sedon reported that the next Shade Tree Commission meeting will be held on Tuesday, July 11, 2017, at 7:30 p.m. in the Garden Room.

Fourth of July - Councilman Sedon said that the day was great.

July 4^th Committee - Mayor Knudsen stated that she has been Village Council Liaison for the July 4^th Committee since 2014. This year’s theme, “Honoring Those Who Serve”, honored those serving our nation in the military, and as emergency responders, police officers, and fire fighters, including volunteers. The Dad’s Night Band gave a volunteer performance as a fundraiser for Somerville School. The Scout Master of Troop 7 picked the winning 50/50 raffle tickets. Mayor Knudsen spoke about how fortunate the Village is to have so many residents willing to volunteer in many capacities throughout Ridgewood. Yesterday, the July 4^th Committee was shining brighter than ever before. The July 4^th Event was outstanding. The parade was incredible, the crowds were outstanding, as were the fireworks and the entertainment. The organization of this event, which includes logistics, security, fund raising, and financial considerations. The 50/50 raffle resulted in a grand prize of $9,100. There were 10, second prize winners with a prize of $229 each. Mayor Knudsen thanked Tara Masterson and Leigh Gilsenan for all their hard work, as well as everyone on the July 4^th Committee, all the emergency responders, and everyone who helped out at this amazing event.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

Hope Fallin, 275 North Murray, stated that she brought a relative from Norway to the fireworks, and she said it was wonderful to see this event through someone else’s eyes.

Ms. Fallin reminded the Village Council that standing or parked vehicles must be at least be 10 feet away from a fire hydrant and 25 feet away from a crosswalk under NJ State Statute. She agreed with the idea of painting the curbs yellow, noting that it exists at another school.

Under questioning by Ms. Fallin, Mr. Rogers explained that Title 39 applies to every public road. Sometimes, there is an idea that once a vehicle is off the road, Title 39 does not apply. If there is no ordinance in effect dealing with a particular property, the police cannot enforce traffic violations.

Under questioning by Ms. Fallin, Ms. Mailander stated that Police Officers will be posted at Ridge School during pick-up times at the beginning of the school year, and then sporadically throughout the school year. The school will educate parents about the new procedure before school starts. The crossing guard will also create a safer situation for the older students crossing to get picked up.

Ms. Fallin suggested prohibiting left turns onto South Murray Avenue if the recommendations do not work.

Ms. Fallin stated that parking is currently prohibited on the right side of North Murray Avenue going up. However, the sign is completely covered and cannot be seen, and she asked for this to be rectified.

Jane Remis, 118 Madison Place, read from the current ordinance in place for Clinton Avenue, amended on June 12, 2013, as follows: “No person shall operate a vehicle on those streets or parts of streets described unless he is a resident of said street needing (inaudible) access to his home or can demonstrate or document a need to access a resident of the street or parts of streets, as described”. Ms. Remis felt this statement is being used to justify anyone driving on the street.

Ms. Remis presented the Village Council with two photographs. One photograph showed students running and walking in the area when vehicles were parked and moving. The other photograph showed a group of students walking down the middle of the street with no cars; however, shortly after this photograph was taken, a vehicle drove half-way down the closed street, stopped, and the driver’s daughter got out of the vehicle and ran up to the group of students to exchange backpacks. Ms. Remis strongly urged the Village Council to word the ordinance to clearly state that only residents have access to Clinton Avenue during the hours it is closed, and that all on-street parking, including residents, is prohibited when the road is closed. Residents will have from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., as well as after-school hours, to receive deliveries. Ms. Remis felt that the “block the box” and “red zone area” were good ideas.

Susanne Riggio, 64 Glenwood Road, stated her resounding support for better signage prohibiting turning around on the railroad tracks on Glenwood Road. Ms. Riggio also noted that a commuter in a beige SUV has been parking on a regular basis on Glenwood Road, Hillcrest Road, and Upper Boulevard.

Ms. Riggio spoke in support of expanding the Senior Tuesday Program at Graydon Pool for Ridgecrest Seniors.

Jeanne Harris, 625 Hillcrest Road, suggested better signage at the Glenwood Road Railroad Crossing, more enforcement, and higher fines for violations, before a decision is made to change the traffic flow or to close Glenwood Road. Ms. Harris expressed surprise that the need for a traffic study was not discussed, considering the impact this would have on Hillcrest Road, Upper Boulevard, Glenwood Road, and surrounding streets. Hillcrest Road and Upper Boulevard are currently very busy streets in the morning. There are over 1,000 households with children that attend Willard School. Ms. Harris expressed concern that additional traffic on these streets will reduce emergency response time, create safety concerns, and negatively impact air quality in the area.

Ms. Harris stated that, as the Vice President of Ridgecrest, she wished to thanked the Village Council for their support of Senior Tuesdays at Graydon Pool. Ms. Harris invited the Village Councilmembers to visit Ridgecrest.

Brad Matthews, 366 Glenwood Road, supported the need for larger signs and higher fines for violations at the Glenwood Road Railroad Crossing. He liked Mayor Knudsen’s idea of the height restriction sign. Mr. Matthews also felt the sidewalk could be moved over to allow the widening of the roadway.

Mr. Matthews objected to spending $3 million to move Ridgewood Water operations to the municipal campus.

Jane Remis, 118 Madison Place, asked for a stairway from the train platform down by the bear statute, so people do not have to cross Franklin Avenue to go shopping. She felt this would be especially helpful for senior citizens living at Ridgecrest.

Ms. Remis noted that, according to the NJ Safe Routes to School website, children under 10 years old should not be walking to school alone, as they are easily distracted and not mature enough to correctly follow pedestrian safety rules. Ridge School students are under 10 years old. Ms. Remis spoke in favor of sidewalks along Clinton Avenue, noting that a study conducted by the Federal Highway Administration stated that the likelihood of a sidewalk being the site of a pedestrian crash is 88.2% lower than a site without sidewalks, after factoring in traffic volume and speed limits. About 8% of all pedestrian fatalities occur while walking along roadways without sidewalks. Ms. Remis disagreed with the position of 14 out of 16 Clinton Avenue residents, that allowing free flowing traffic along Clinton Avenue would create a safety hazard for pedestrians with or without sidewalks. Ms. Remis pointed out that pedestrians safely walk on sidewalks along Godwin Avenue, which is a busier street. Opening up Clinton Avenue during the day will accommodate service vehicles so that the road will be traffic/parking-free during the closed hours. Ms. Remis agreed with a suggestion made by the Clinton Avenue residents to paint a pedestrian lane on the roadway.

Ann Marie Agnello, 31 Clinton Avenue, stated that she has observed that vehicles either slow down or stop when children are present. She also noted that school events are usually at the beginning or end of the day, not in the middle of the day when the road is open. Ms. Agnello thanked the Village Council for listening to the residents.

Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, asked that the ordinance proposed to prohibit sports parking in the Village Hall/Library parking lot, contain wording that also prohibits school buses for using this lot. He recalled that this issue, as well as the installation of signage indicating this, was discussed at previous Village Council meetings.

Under questioning by Mr. Loving, Ms. Mailander explained that the property acquisition for Ridgewood Water will be funded through the Capital Improvement Fund.

Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, described the July 4^th Celebration as fantastic.

Ms. Loving felt the agenda item, “Enrollment of Unlawful Students in Ridgewood Schools” should be changed to read, “Unlawful Enrollment of Students”, as the students are innocent victims of their parents.

Mayor Knudsen understood that the prohibition of school buses in the Village Hall/Library parking lot, including the installation of signage directing everyone to the south lot, was discussed by the Village Council in 2015. GPS directional mapping was adjusted to direct people to the south lot. An ordinance addressing this issue will be put on the agenda for an August, 2017 Village Council meeting.

Mayor Knudsen understood that the Clinton Avenue Parking Ordinance was amended in 2013. As previously mentioned, Mayor Knudsen suggested changing the times and not the parking restrictions now, and then reviewing the 2013 meeting minutes to help gain a perspective as to how this amendment occurred.

ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Sedon, seconded by Councilman Voigt, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Work Session was adjourned at 9:15 p.m.

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Susan Knudsen

Mayor

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Donna M. Jackson

Deputy Village Clerk

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20170705 Village Council Work Session

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