Written on 29 March 2018.

Village Council Public Meeting Minutes 20140813

A REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURTROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY, ON WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 13, 2014, AT 8:00 P.M.

1. CALL TO ORDER – OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS ACT – ROLL CALL – FLAG SALUTE – MOMENT OF SILENCE

Mayor Aronsohn called the meeting to order at 8:05 P.M., and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. At roll call, the following were present: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn. Also present were Roberta Sonenfeld, Village Manager; Heather Mailander, Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney.

Mayor Aronsohn led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag. Mayor Aronsohn then asked for a moment of silence to honor the men and women in the United States Armed Forces who protect and defend our freedom every day, as well as those serving as first responders.

2. ACCEPTANCE OF FINANCIAL REPORTS

Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Bills, Claims, and Vouchers, and Statement of Funds on hand as of July 31, 2014, be accepted as submitted. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS: None

ABSENT: None

ABSTAIN: None

3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Village Council minutes of July 1 and July 15, 2014, having been reviewed by the Village Council and now available in the Village Clerk’s Office, be approved as submitted. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS: None

ABSENT: None

ABSTAIN: None

4. PROCLAMATIONS

A. Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over 2014 Statewide Crackdown

Councilwoman Knudsen read the following proclamation:

B. Declare September Healthy Donations Month

Councilwoman Hauck read a proclamation declaring the month of September "Healthy Donations Month". Hayley Punjabi, a rising senior at Ridgewood High School, stated that for her Girl Scout Gold Award project, she decided to declare the month of September as "Healthy Donations Month" in Ridgewood. That means that, instead of bringing regular canned goods and boxed foods to the food pantry, Ms. Punjabi asked people to bring fresh produce. Ms. Punjabi said her reason for doing so was seeing the types of foods that were given to homeless people, which upset her. During the month of September, there will be two food drives at which people are asked to bring only fresh produce. Mayor Aronsohn thanked Ms. Punjabi for coming up with this great idea, and for seeing it through.

C. Declare September Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

Councilman Pucciarelli read the following proclamation:

D. Declare September National Preparedness Month

Councilman Sedon read the following proclamation:

5. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

Mayor Aronsohn asked if anyone from the public wished to speak regarding any of the agenda items.

Paul Woodburn, 66 North Irving Street, said he has not attended a Village Council meeting for quite some time, and he welcomed the newest Councilmembers, and Ms. Sonenfeld. Mr. Woodburn stated that he lives behind the Ridgewood High School football fields, and he was not aware that they would be cleaning up the fields. On Tuesday, when Mr. Woodburn looked out of the windows of his house, he was appalled to see a large dust storm being blown across the fields by the wind, from Ridgewood Avenue across Heermance Place to Franklin Avenue. The workers were using bobcats and large leaf blowers to move the debris on the football field over to a large pile of debris that could be removed later. In the meantime, the large dust storm was accumulating in the air and blowing all over the neighborhood. Mr. Woodburn does not think this was the right way to go about this, and he recalled that after Hurricane Irene, workers tried to clean the field in the same way, and the residents of the neighborhood protested strongly. At that time, the workers were told that they could not get rid of the debris in that manner. It would have to be collected in some type of container along the fields, and Mr. Woodburn does not understand why that procedure was not followed this time. He believes the same company was used as was used previously to do the cleanup, so they should have known what to do. While Mr. Woodburn was watching, he witnessed the workers using their bobcats to push a portion of the debris onto the banks near the footbridge, filling the holes in that area. Mr. Woodburn does not believe that is correct, either. He is concerned that the next time there is a heavy rain, the resultant flooding will cause the debris to float back downstream. Mr. Woodburn does not know who is doing the work, but he is aware that it is costing approximately $120,000 to have it done. He asked why the workers do not use gravel or something else to fill in the holes near the bridge. Finally, Mr. Woodburn pointed out that he has lived in Ridgewood off and on since the 1970s, and he is a graduate of Ridgewood High School. He has witnessed the fields flooding numerous times over the years, and every time it rains and floods, the debris and logs pile up under the footbridge between the two fields on Ridgewood High School property, damming the stream at that point. The water then backs up past Graydon Pool to Maple Field. Mr. Woodburn recommends to the Village Council and the Board of Education that the bridge be removed, which will eliminate the flooding problems. Mr. Woodburn provided pictures that he took of the situation on Tuesday. Ms. Sonenfeld thanked Mr. Woodburn for his input, adding that it was very helpful, because the same company that is doing the field cleanup for Ridgewood High School will be doing the remediation to Maple Field. This information will be provided to them, and Mr. Woodburn cautioned Ms. Sonenfeld to make sure that the company does not cut any corners, as he witnessed. Ms. Sonenfeld noted that the information would also be provided to Dr. Daniel Fishbein, Superintendent of Schools.

Leonard Eisen, 762 Upper Boulevard, commented that he could not believe that one of the resolutions to be voted on at this meeting, #14-213, designates the Village as a Stigma-Free Zone. Mr. Eisen commented on this last week, and he is still surprised that adults in Ridgewood have to be told how to behave. Councilwoman Hauck responded that she believes part of the purpose behind adopting such a resolution is to remind people to be more accepting of other people who are different. It is not intended to tell anyone how to behave, but is simply a reminder to adults and children to be more tolerant of one another. Mayor Aronsohn commented that he understands Mr. Eisen’s feelings, but he views it as simply a way for Ridgewood to let people with mental health challenges and their families know that Ridgewood is a welcoming and inclusive community. The message is intended to be a positive one.

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

6. MANAGER’S REPORT

Ms. Sonenfeld gave an update on the situation regarding the rodent infestation. The situation has subsided, and the Health Department has posted a fact sheet on the Village website to address residents’ concerns. A total of 25 inquiries were received about rats. Many of the sightings were related to construction activity in the area, and Ms. Sonenfeld explained that the possibility of adopting an ordinance that would require pest-control at a wider variety of development projects is currently being explored.

Regarding the storm, Ms. Sonenfeld said it was decided that a sign would be erected in the Village Hall parking lot to warn about flooding. Another of the lessons learned, as Ms. Sonenfeld mentioned at the previous meeting, is that a proposal is being developed to put a public address system in Village Hall.

Next, Ms. Sonenfeld mentioned the costs associated with cleaning up Maple Field. From 2006-2014, Maple Field has cost the Village a net of $121,500 (estimated). The actual costs might be somewhat less, because Ms. Sonenfeld pointed out that the insurance payment has not yet been received for the latest damage, in the amount of $48,000. Maintenance service was done earlier this year, half of which was paid for out of grant money. In addition, some Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funds are expected. That averages out to an approximate cost of $15,200 per year. Sometime around 2004, before the turf field was installed, the annual maintenance cost incurred by the Village for the grass field was approximately $33,000 per year. That shows that the maintenance costs for the turf fields are definitely lower than those for grass fields. Ms. Sonenfeld also reminded everyone that the Village did not pay for the Maple Park turf field; instead, it was paid for by the sports organizations. Councilwoman Knudsen asked if the costs were related to maintenance performed due to storm damage, or if those were regular maintenance costs. Ms. Sonenfeld responded that nearly all of the costs she reported were related to storm damage maintenance. There was a line item for maintenance in the amount of $43,000, half of which was paid for out of grant funds obtained by Timothy Cronin, Director of the Department of Parks and Recreation. Unfortunately those are 2013 funds that paid for the work, which was done in 2014. Ms. Sonenfeld said that was the only regular maintenance that was performed since the fields were installed in 2006. She added that there was a second proposal for field maintenance, in the amount of $54,000. Mayor Aronsohn asked for clarification that Ms. Sonenfeld was reporting that maintenance of the grass fields averaged approximately $30,000 per year, while maintenance of the turf field has averaged approximately $15,000 per year, which Ms. Sonenfeld confirmed. Councilman Pucciarelli pointed out that another relevant factor to be considered is the level of use of the fields, because they do seem to be well-used, especially since the switch was made to a turf field.

Councilwoman Hauck noted that what everyone is referring to as "maintenance" of the turf field is actually repairing them after flood damage. She also stated that maintenance on grass fields includes irrigation, fertilization, and mowing. The flood occurring on grass fields would also cost a lot of money to remediate, including silt removal, removal of rotten grass, and removing other pollution on the grass. Moreover, the grass field would have to be re-sodded.

Councilman Sedon thanked Ms. Sonenfeld for her work in putting together the cost analysis of the turf field versus the grass field.

Ms. Sonenfeld also commented on the North Walnut Street Redevelopment Zone, saying that she hopes to have the RFP ready next week.

A new telephone system was supposed to have been implemented tomorrow, but due to a technical issue with Verizon, it has been postponed. When it is fully implemented, Ms. Sonenfeld said the cost savings will be approximately $5,000 per month. The system is the same one that is currently used by the Board of Education.

Ms. Sonenfeld reported that the first monthly restitution payment was received in the quarter theft issue. The check was supposed to be for $2,000, but it was for $1,800. After consulting with Mr. Rogers, Ms. Sonenfeld learned that the difference is due to a one-time administrative fee that the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office applied to the payment. That fee will not go toward the ultimate settlement. In addition, the forensic accounting associated with the quarter theft is on-going.

Interviewing continues for the Building Department position, and Ms. Sonenfeld hopes to see a lot of progress in that by the end of next week.

In her Response to Residents Section, an inquiry was received about PSE&G using a portion of the Graydon North parking lot as a staging area for their "Energy Strong" project. That land is owned by the Village, and a question was asked as to whether the Village was charging PSE&G for use of the parking lot. Ms. Sonenfeld stated that she and Mr. Rutishauser had a meeting with representatives from PSE&G in which they asked for reduced fees for street opening permit, and reduced fees for Police Department personnel (both the administrative and personnel fees). Ms. Sonenfeld refused their requests. However, use of the parking lot was a "gentleman’s agreement".

A question arose some time ago about Village employees who use Village vehicles, and what they do with those vehicles while they are on vacation. Ms. Sonenfeld reported that the policy is for them to leave the Village vehicles at one of the Village-owned parking lots when they go on vacation so that the vehicles may be used by others in that department.

Regarding the Schedler property, Ms. Sonenfeld said a declaration of intent to apply for a grant with the Historic Preservation Trust Fund was submitted last week.

A letter is being prepared to go out tomorrow to the contractor responsible for the Garber Square construction, directing him to either resume work by Monday, August 18^{th, or the contract will be terminated.}

The new Village website is on target to go live in the fall of 2014.

On August 27th, Ms. Sonenfeld will be holding an internal brainstorming "leaf forum". She will be meeting with staff members who actually do the leaf removal, as well as part of the management team, to discuss some ideas that they already have for improvements, as well as bringing in some external best practices.

Ms. Sonenfeld reported that new ideas for the Village fleet are being considered from several different perspectives. One of those new ideas is selective outsourcing, which has already been implemented with the resolution to lease five Police Department vehicles. Other alternatives are also being considered. Councilman Pucciarelli noted that Ms. Sonenfeld is also taking a very intelligent and measured approach toward solving the problem of the Chestnut Street vehicle repair facility.

Ms. Sonenfeld reminded everyone that dog registrations were due on June 30, 2014. Three hundred licenses have not yet been renewed. In the past, when fine notices were sent out, a lot of negative feedback was received. This time, a letter will be sent to remind residents to renew their dog licenses if they have not already done so. Ms. Sonenfeld reminded everyone to register their dogs as quickly as possible if they have not already done so.

The calendar theme for the 2015 Ridgewood calendar has been selected, and it is called "Ridgewood Doors". It will show local examples of residential doors, and is intended to be a symbol of hospitality, openness, and welcome.

Movies in the Park will be held on Wednesday, August 20th. The last movie of the season will be "Life of Pi". The annual Chamber of Commerce car show will be on September 5, 2014. A reception to honor Roger Wiegand will also be held on September 5, 2014, at Village Hall. A plaque will be dedicated and placed on the podium where the public is allowed to make their comments. Everyone is invited to attend this reception.

7. COUNCIL REPORTS

Central Business District Forum – Councilman Pucciarelli mentioned that on Wednesday, August 20th, the second forum on the CBD will take place. He thanked Councilwoman Hauck for arranging for use of the Ridgecrest Senior Residences as the venue for the next meeting. The meeting will be held from 7:30 P.M.-9:00 P.M., and the format will be a bit different than the one that was held previously. The first half-hour will be an open microphone session for anyone who wishes to speak about the CBD issues, and then next hour will be a panel discussion comprised of five people who will discuss some of the ideas that have been presented in greater detail. Councilman Pucciarelli said he hopes to have another forum of this type in September. He added that it would be nice if all of the other Councilmembers could attend this form, but that would be precluded by the Open Public Meetings Act.

Ridgewood Arts Council (RAC) – Councilman Pucciarelli mentioned that the Ridgewood Arts Council will meet on Thursday, August 28th, at 7:30 P.M., in the Garden Room.

Regarding the forum discussion to be held on the CBD, Mayor Aronsohn commented that there are many interpretations of the Open Public Meetings Act. He wondered if there was a difference between Councilmembers attending a meeting just to listen, or actively participating in a meeting. He believes that is something that is worth discussing at a future Village Council meeting. Mr. Rogers stated that if notice is given about a meeting to be held, the Councilmembers are certainly not prohibited from attending that meeting. The notices are merely a safety issue, in the event that there is a discussion. Ms. Mailander pointed out that the meeting would have to be called to order as a Village Council meeting, and minutes would have to be taken of the meeting. Councilwoman Knudsen pointed out that at the Planning Board hearings on Valley Hospital, Mayor Aronsohn was on the dais as a Planning Board member, but the other Councilmembers were in the audience listening. She is interested in gaining a better understanding of how that might be different from what was suggested by Mayor Aronsohn with respect to the CBD forum. Mr. Rogers said there is no difference between the two, and the careful approach, to ensure that there is no violation, would be to give notice of any meeting that is to be held. However, as he understands the Open Public Meetings Act, as long as there is no agenda and no expectation that the Councilmembers will take any action, there is no violation of the Open Public Meetings Act. The Councilmembers will be discussing this further at a future Village Council meeting. Councilman Sedon said he would find it helpful to hear what citizens have to say without any expectation of action being taken.

Community Center Advisory Board – Councilwoman Hauck stated that the members of the Community Center Advisory Board have selected a paint color for the walls of the Patrick Mancuso Senior Center, and they are ready to paint. The room is scheduled to be ready by mid-October. The color is called Kentucky haze blue. The room will have leather couches and a small carpet that can be rolled up if there is heavy rain, as well as soft, comfortable chairs. Painting will occur from September 22-24, and Councilwoman Hauck invited anyone who wants to volunteer to come and help them paint the room.

Financial Advisory Committee (FAC) – Councilwoman Hauck said the FAC met this past Monday, and the two newest members were in attendance. Nancy Hague, one of the new members, is a certified financial fraud examiner; a certified internal auditor; and a certified financial services auditor. Charlie DiMarco, the other new member, holds a Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and a Master’s degree in transportation planning and engineering, and an MBA for which his thesis was titled "Analysis of Budgeting and Management Techniques for Municipal Government". On Monday, the FAC discussed the aspects of the Ridgewood FMBA contract, including salary steps, longevity, terminal leave, and other pertinent issues. Earlier this year, the State legislature extended the interest arbitration cap, which provides the 2% cap on salary increases and arbitration awards for police and fire contracts. This was designed to align with the 2% limit on municipal budget increases. The current Fire Department contract will expire on December 31, 2014, and the 2% arbitration cap will be an important consideration in contract negotiations.

Councilwoman Hauck also gave an update on the abandoned property ordinance which was adopted in June 2014, and was designed to keep all Village properties and neighborhoods safe. The ordinance has been utilized to establish a list of properties. On two separate occasions, several property owners have been notified of the reasons why their properties are considered to be abandoned properties, and they were asked to cooperate with the Village to establish a rehabilitation plan for those properties. Some of the owners have responded positively, while others have ignored the notifications. Property owners who do not respond to the notices remain on the abandoned property list, which is published in the newspaper. Councilwoman Hauck read a list of the properties which remain on the list due to the owners’ failure to respond. If the owners respond positively and take steps to remediate the properties, they will be removed from the list. However, if there continues to be no response, the Village has the tools to force the owners to remediate the properties. One option is to hold a special tax sale for any unpaid real estate taxes on the properties. Another option is to take possession and control of the properties, and have the property rehabilitated with the property owner bearing the expenses. The third option is to seek title of the properties, and take away any interest or retained by the owner, which is the least desirable option for the Village.

Shade Tree Commission – Councilman Sedon reported that the cleanup of the tree wells along East Ridgewood Avenue is proceeding, and should be completed within a few weeks.

Councilman Sedon also reported that he has received some complaints about sidewalk issues, in which the sidewalks are buckling or being pushed up. He asked if permits are required for residents to repair sidewalks, and if residents can appeal any fines that are assessed for such repairs. Christopher Rutishauser, Village Engineer, explained that sidewalk maintenance is the responsibility of the property owner. Owners of properties adjacent to sidewalks that do not meet standards receive a letter requesting that they correct the problem. Mr. Rutishauser noted that a permit is required for the repair, and there is a permit fee charged. Permits are issued by the Engineering Department. Contractors are able to obtain a permit that covers the entire year, so that contractors who do a lot of work in the Village may offer a lower price for sidewalk repairs. There is an appeal process, and Mr. Rutishauser explained that someone who wishes to appeal may do so, and the property will be reassessed to ensure that a mistake was not made.

Historic Preservation Commission – Councilwoman Knudsen said there is a Historic Preservation Commission meeting scheduled for tomorrow.

Planning Board – Councilwoman Knudsen reminded everyone that last week, there was discussion about organizing a subcommittee to discuss and scrutinize Ordinance 3066. The members of the subcommittee will be Mayor Aronsohn; Councilwoman Knudsen; Charles Nalbantian, Chairman of the Planning Board; Richard Joel, Vice-Chairman of the Planning Board; Gail Price, Planning Board Attorney; and Blais Brancheau, Village Planner. They plan to meet on Tuesday, August 19th, to discuss the ordinance and examine how it can be amended or modified to address residents’ concerns. Councilwoman Knudsen said she is looking forward to the opportunity to hear all of the terrific ideas that she anticipates will be discussed at this meeting.

Chamber Of Commerce – Mayor Aronsohn stated that the Sidewalk Sale days last week were a great success. Another Sidewalk Sale event is planned for October.

8. ORDINANCES

a. Introduction – NONE

b. Public Hearing – #3423 – Establishment of a Green Team

Mayor Aronsohn moved the second reading of Ordinance 3423 and that the Public Hearing be opened. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS: None

ABSENT: None

ABSTAIN: None

The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3423 by title:

AN ORDINANCE TO ESTABLISH THE RIDGEWOOD GREEN TEAM AS A PERMANENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE

Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS: None

ABSENT: None

ABSTAIN: None

Councilwoman Hauck moved that Ordinance 3423 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS: None

ABSENT: None

ABSTAIN: None

c. Public Hearing – #3424 – Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Fees for Emergency Street Openings on Newly Paved Roads

Mayor Aronsohn moved the second reading of Ordinance 3424 and that the Public Hearing be opened. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS: None

ABSENT: None

ABSTAIN: None

The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3424 by title:

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 249 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, STREETS AND SIDEWALKS, AT SECTION 249-44, "GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS"

Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS: None

ABSENT: None

ABSTAIN: None

Councilman Sedon moved that Ordinance 3424 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS: None

ABSENT: None

ABSTAIN: None

d. Public Hearing – #3425 – Amend Chapter 190 – Land Use and Development – Surface Parking in C Zone

Mayor Aronsohn moved the second reading of Ordinance 3425 and that the Public Hearing be opened. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS: None

ABSENT: None

ABSTAIN: None

The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3425 by title:

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 190, LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT, AT SECTION 190-114, C COMMERCIAL DISTRICT, OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN ORDER TO PERMIT SURFACE PARKING LOTS AS A PRINCIPAL USE IN THE C ZONE DISTRICT

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS: None

ABSENT: None

ABSTAIN: None

Councilwoman Knudsen moved that Ordinance 3425 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS: None

ABSENT: None

ABSTAIN: None

e. Public Hearing – #3426 – Amend Ordinance for Site Plan Procedural Requirements

Mayor Aronsohn moved the second reading of Ordinance 3426 and that the Public Hearing be opened. Councilwoman Hauck seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS: None

ABSENT: None

ABSTAIN: None

The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3426 by title:

AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD AMENDING CHAPTER 190, LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT, IN ORDER TO AMEND THE REQUIREMENTS FOR SITE PLAN APPROVAL

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS: None

ABSENT: None

ABSTAIN: None

Councilwoman Hauck moved that Ordinance 3426 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS: None

ABSENT: None

ABSTAIN: None

f. Public Hearing – #3427 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Stop Signs at Heights Road and Madison Place

Mayor Aronsohn moved the second reading of Ordinance 3427 and that the Public Hearing be opened. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS: None

ABSENT: None

ABSTAIN: None

The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3427 by title:

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-59, SCHEDULE IX "STOP INTERSECTIONS"

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS: None

ABSENT: None

ABSTAIN: None

Councilwoman Knudsen moved that Ordinance 3427 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS: None

ABSENT: None

ABSTAIN: None

g. Public Hearing – #3428 – Water Capital Ordinance ($94,000) – Water Valves

Mayor Aronsohn moved the second reading of Ordinance 3428 and that the Public Hearing be opened. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS: None

ABSENT: None

ABSTAIN: None

The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3428 by title:

AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $94,000 FOR THE PURCHASE OF WATER VALVES FOR THE WATER UTILITY FROM THE WATER CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS: None

ABSENT: None

ABSTAIN: None

Councilman Pucciarelli moved that Ordinance 3428 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS: None

ABSENT: None

ABSTAIN: None

h. Public Hearing – #3429 – Amend Chapter 3, Article VIII – Residency Requirements

Mayor Aronsohn moved the second reading of Ordinance 3429 and that the Public Hearing be opened. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS: None

ABSENT: None

ABSTAIN: None

The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3429 by title:

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 3, ARTICLE VIII OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD ENTITLED "RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS"

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS: None

ABSENT: None

ABSTAIN: None

Councilman Sedon moved that Ordinance 3429 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS: None

ABSENT: None

ABSTAIN: None

i. Public Hearing – #3430 – Valet Parking in Central Business District – Valet Parking Operator

Mayor Aronsohn moved the second reading of Ordinance 3430 and that the Public Hearing be opened. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS: None

ABSENT: None

ABSTAIN: None

The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3430 by title:

AN ORDINANCE TO ESTABLISH A NEW CHAPTER OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD TITLED "VALET PARKING SERVICES"

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS: None

ABSENT: None

ABSTAIN: None

Councilwoman Hauck moved that Ordinance 3430 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS: Councilwoman Knudsen

ABSENT: None

ABSTAIN: None

Councilwoman Knudsen said she could not vote for this ordinance, because she is concerned about the provision that valet parking operators could use the public parking lots as thoroughfares, which she considers unsafe. Councilman Pucciarelli commented that the version that was originally produced was amended to allow the Village Manager to promulgate regulations for valet parking operators, so that the regulations can be adjusted as implementation of valet parking progresses.

j. Public Hearing – #3431 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Loading Zones and Valet Parking

Mayor Aronsohn moved the second reading of Ordinance 3431 and that the Public Hearing be opened. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS: None

ABSENT: None

ABSTAIN: None

The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3431 by title:

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-26, "LOADING ZONES" AND AT SECTION 265-72, SCHEDULE XXII "LOADING ZONES"

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS: None

ABSENT: None

ABSTAIN: None

Councilman Sedon moved that Ordinance 3431 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS: None

ABSENT: None

ABSTAIN: None

9. RESOLUTIONS

THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 14-200 THROUGH 14-215, WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA, WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:

10. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

Mayor Aronsohn stated that they would again have comments from the public and asked anyone wishing to address the Village Council to come forward.

Ellie Gruber, 229 South Irving Street, thanked the Councilmembers and Mr. Rutishauser in advance for allowing her and her volunteers to do the cleanup of the Ho-Ho-Kus Brook corridor in October. She mentioned that the footbridge area referenced by Mr. Woodburn in the earlier comments will be cleaned up at that time. Ms. Gruber invited anyone who would like to help in the cleanup efforts to show up with the members of Ridgewood Wildscape on October 5th.

Ms. Gruber also commented regarding the Open Public Meetings Act. She said that having an informal meeting or a forum should not prevent any or all of the Councilmembers from attending such an event. The CBD forum has been announced, and has now been publicized in the newspapers. Ms. Gruber agreed with Mr. Rogers that further discussion is necessary on the matter, but after having checked with the New Jersey Foundation for Open Government, she discovered that as long as no official business is conducted, and proper notifications have been made about the meeting or event, any or all of the Councilmembers are certainly free to attend. Ms. Gruber emphasized that the forum is a different matter from the previous case when the Garber Square construction was discussed, because the public in general was not notified of the Garber Square meeting, but only select people were. She believes the Councilmembers would be doing a great service to the public if they were to attend the next CBD forum to listen to people sharing their ideas freely.

Councilman Pucciarelli interjected that there is no resistance among the Councilmembers to attending the meeting. He also said he does not know why Ms. Gruber stated that only "certain people" knew about the previous CBD forum. Ms. Gruber said she was not referring to the previous CBD forum, but to the meeting that was held regarding the Garber Square construction. Ms. Gruber pointed out that the purpose of the Open Public Meetings Act is intended for meetings at which official business will be conducted, when minutes must be taken, and the meeting must appear on the public record. Councilman Pucciarelli said his goal is to keep the microphone open to the public, and not have the level of formality that is necessary at Village Council meetings. He believes the first forum was successful precisely because it was informal. Mayor Aronsohn suggested that Ms. Gruber could give the contact information of the person at the New Jersey Foundation for Open Government to Mr. Rogers. Mr. Rogers agreed, and added that his own interpretation of the Open Public Meetings Act is that as long as no official business is discussed, the Councilmembers are free to attend any event.

There were no more comments from the public, and Mayor Aronsohn closed the time for public comment.

11. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION

The following resolution, numbered 14-216, to go into Closed Session, was read in full by the Village Clerk, as follows:

12. ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Pucciarelli, seconded by Councilwoman Hauck, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 9:15 P.M.

PAUL S. ARONSOHN, Mayor

HEATHER A. MAILANDER, Village Clerk

Hits: 2721

Village Council Public Meeting Minutes 20140813

Feedback