Village Council Public Work Session Minutes 20140528

A REGULAR WORK SESSION 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, MAY 28, 2014, AT 7:30 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 8:01 P.M., and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. At roll call, the following were present: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Walsh, and Mayor Aronsohn. Also present were Roberta Sonenfeld, Village Manager; Heather Mailander, Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney. Councilman Riche was absent.

Mayor Aronsohn led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag and asked for a moment of silence in honor of the American men and women serving in our Armed Forces, as well as those who serve as first responders in Ridgewood and throughout the United States.

2. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

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

Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, said he had read an article in the newspaper regarding a meeting that occurred last night which was attended by more than 30 people, and Mr. Loving believes the topic might be of general interest to all Ridgewood taxpayers. Mr. Loving heard a rumor that there might be such a meeting on Tuesday night, and he monitored the Village website to see if there was any announcement about the meeting. However, no such announcement was ever made on the website, so Mr. Loving assumed that it was just a rumor. Therefore, he was surprised to read the article about the meeting, and he was curious to know why the meeting took place, and why there was no information posted on the website about the meeting so that members of the public who might have had an interest in the subject could have gone to the meeting. Mayor Aronsohn responded that some Ridgewood residents had requested a meeting to discuss the construction that is occurring at Garber Square. The meeting on Tuesday night was not a public Village Council meeting. Mayor Aronsohn, Ms. Sonenfeld, and Councilwoman Walsh, as the Chairperson of the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee, attended the meeting. It was open to anyone, and there can be another meeting to discuss the situation further if people wish to have one. Mr. Loving asked how it came about that two members of the press were invited, yet no taxpayers were invited to attend. Mayor Aronsohn said he could not speak for anyone else, but he assumed it was because some of the residents have members of the press included in their email exchanges. Mr. Loving asked if any member of the Village Council or Village administration invited the press to the meeting, and Ms. Sonenfeld and Councilwoman Walsh responded that they did not invite the press to the meeting. Mayor Aronsohn answered that he spoke to a member of the press, but he did not extend an invitation to the meeting. Ms. Sonenfeld agreed that she believes that some members of the press may have been copied on the emails that were exchanged. Mr. Loving said he was concerned that there was a meeting taking place on a topic of general interest, which was attended by more than 30 people and members of the press, as well as Councilmembers and the Village Manager, yet no one had any idea of this meeting was taking place. Mayor Aronsohn reiterated that no one was intentionally left out of attending the meeting, and certainly Mr. Loving could have attended it if he wanted to do so. Mayor Aronsohn explained that he, Ms. Sonenfeld, and Councilwoman Walsh were simply responding to a request made by some Ridgewood residents. Mr. Loving noted that he did not know the time or location of the meeting, and Mayor Aronsohn responded that a phone call could have taken care of that. He added that Mr. Loving calls or sends emails regarding a lot of Ridgewood issues, and it was surprising that he would not have called about this one. Ms. Sonenfeld said that she would give details about the meeting during her Manager’s Report.

Nancy Greene, Director of the Ridgewood Public Library, commented that everyone at the Public Library is deeply honored that the family of Roger Wiegand selected the Friends of the Ridgewood Public Library, as well as the American Heart Association, as the recipients of donations in his honor. Ms. Greene noted that she had seen Mr. Wiegand at Village Council meetings for many years, and she always admired how he conducted himself. She added that the Ridgewood Public Library appreciates the donations in his name.

Rahul Bhatia, 309 Stevens Avenue, said he is a new resident of Ridgewood, and he loves it here so far. However, he has one reservation about the Village, which has been reinforced while driving on Van Dien Avenue, which is that the roads are not in very good condition. Mr. Bhatia commented that if anything can be done to improve the conditions on the roads, he would be in favor of it, even if it meant increasing taxes to focus on infrastructure. That is something he believes Ridgewood needs. Ms. Sonenfeld noted that during the budget presentation, more information will be forthcoming about paving the roads. She believes that the paving of South Van Dien Avenue is currently underway, and grant money has been obtained for the paving of North Van Dien Avenue. Once the capital funds are allocated, bids can be sought for the work on North Van Dien Avenue.

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

Ms. Sonenfeld made some comments regarding the meeting on Tuesday night about the construction being done at Garber Square, in response to Mr. Loving’s earlier comments. Ms. Sonenfeld pointed out that she first discussed the project at Garber Square several weeks ago at a Village Council meeting, due to the fact that it would cause some traffic issues in that area, as well as to give information about the project design. The construction is based on a Complete Streets plan, and its purpose is to enhance pedestrian, vehicular, and bicycle safety, as well as to provide much-needed aesthetic upgrades. More information is available on the Village website.

Initially, the construction met with some resistance, particularly on the west side of town. Residents in that area were concerned about the lack of communication, and the congestion that the construction might cause. As a result, some residents requested a Town Hall-style meeting, which grew to encompass more than 30 people. A detailed presentation was made at the meeting by Christopher Rutishauser, Village Engineer, who went over the plans in great detail. Police Chief Ward, Captain Luthcke, and Fire Chief Van Goor were also present to answer questions.

After listening to the residents’ concerns, and doing some internal evaluations, Ms. Sonenfeld said that several different courses of action will be pursued. Some of these might involve a working with members of the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee, so Councilwoman Walsh may be consulted on those aspects of the work. Traffic plates to record vehicle speed will be placed on certain roads. Heights Road might be the first street to get the traffic plates, due to the number of residents who were present at the meeting last night who complained about speeding cars. After that, the next locations will likely be West Ridgewood Avenue, Godwin Avenue, and Franklin Avenue. The point of using the traffic plates is to provide empirical data about the traffic flows in those areas. Another course of action will be to install mobile cameras at Garber Square and Franklin Avenue to film traffic for several weeks, in order to obtain more empirical data about the traffic flow. Another way to address some of the speeding concerns and Heights Road will be to install a stop sign at the corner of Heights Road and Woodland Avenue, which should help to calm the traffic.

More significantly, in looking at the design and listening to concerns about contingency plans in case traffic does get backed up, alternatives were considered to the design that would narrow the median from an eight-foot median to a four-foot median. That would leave approximately 20 feet on each side of the median at its narrowest point. This contingency will be considered if the traffic does not react in the way that is expected under the original plan.

All of these discussions began today, as Ms. Sonenfeld noted. Consideration was given to the amount of work that would have to be undone in order to do all of the work stated. For example, approximately $45,000 worth of curbing that has already been installed will have to be cut, as well as some additional saw-cutting that will be necessary. Some of the beautification component of the design will be lost due to the fact that the eight-foot median provides an opportunity to plant trees. As a result of the progress made toward this recommendation, it was decided today to rearrange the work that is currently going on at Garber Square, and stop working on the curbs and median, so that it will not be necessary to undo more work in the future. This is all based on a determination being made with input from Councilwoman Walsh and the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee to proceed with the project, including the four-foot median. The people who are currently working in that area have been relocated to do other work. Ms. Sonenfeld pointed out that a decision must be made soon in order to avoid unnecessary delays. She also suggested that it might be necessary to convene a special meeting of the Citizens Safety Advisory Board to discuss the project.

Mayor Aronsohn stated that he thought it was a good idea to have a contingency plan, because if it is decided some years in the future that more changes are necessary, the contingency plan gives more options. Regarding the time sensitivity, Mayor Aronsohn noted that work will continue for the other aspects of this project, but the work currently being done on the curbs and median in that area will be stopped temporarily. He asked Councilwoman Walsh whether it would be possible to present this idea to the members of the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee as soon as tomorrow, and come back to the Councilmembers with their input so that action can be taken sooner rather than later. Ms. Sonenfeld said she is confident that the contingency plan can work, and that it will aid the traffic flows in the area. She also noted that everyone feels strongly about all of the safety issues being considered.

Councilwoman Walsh stated that the next meeting of the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee, which will be her last meeting, is scheduled for the end of June. She thought it would be possible to poll the members via email, and she knows that many of them were in attendance at the meeting last night. Councilman Walsh asked if the grant application allows the Village to change the configuration. She noted that the reason behind the question was because the topic kept coming up at the meeting last night, since many people wanted to know if the plan could be changed back to the original if they do not like the current one. Mr. Rutishauser responded that minor changes are allowed under the grant. He pointed out that Ms. Sonenfeld proposed that the median from West Ridgewood Avenue, around the Garber Square curve, and down to North Broad Street be narrowed from the original proposed design of eight feet to four feet. The eight-foot median allows for landscaping and lights, while the narrower one only permits lights. Mr. Rutishauser does not think that will present an issue with the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT).

Councilwoman Walsh asked what would happen in the event the bike lane is removed, and if that would be considered a minor change. Mr. Rutishauser answered that if the bike lane is deleted before reimbursement is received from NJDOT, they might take a closer look at the project. Ms. Sonenfeld noted that currently, there is no intention to eliminate the bike lane, and the only change is a narrower median. Councilwoman Walsh said she understood that, but in conversation with residents last night, it was mentioned several times that eventually the bike lane could be eliminated if it did not work. Mr. Rutishauser commented that as Mayor Aronsohn pointed out, it might become necessary to change something as traffic patterns change in the future. That is something that the NJDOT understands, and they usually accept such changes. However, Mr. Rutishauser thought they might have a problem with an application that is presented with bike lanes as part of the project, and those bike lanes are later deleted when the final project is presented. Councilwoman Walsh asked if the bike lanes are removed, what percentage of the grant could be withheld, in Mr. Rutishauser’s opinion. Mr. Rutishauser answered he does not know at this time. Ms. Sonenfeld noted that the grant is for $146,000. Councilwoman Walsh stated that she only asked the questions for clarification purposes, because the issue was raised several times at the meeting. Mr. Rutishauser said he believes that several years after the project is completed, if traffic pattern changes should occur that would require elimination of the bike lanes, it should not be a problem at that time.

Councilman Pucciarelli asked if the median is narrowed from eight feet, what width is being proposed. Mr. Rutishauser said that the median would be approximately 4-4.5 feet wide. He pointed out that the median must be wide enough to fit the streetlight pole foundation between the two curbs. Once the foundation is installed, the rest would be filled with an aggregate mix, and then it would be topped with pavers for color distinction, or perhaps concrete. Councilman Pucciarelli commented that obviously, no trees or shrubs would be planted in the narrower median, which Mr. Rutishauser confirmed. Councilman Pucciarelli observed that, as someone who travels in that area several times every day, the two lanes are rarely used. Mr. Rutishauser noted that if they are used, it is most frequently done by aggressive drivers. Councilman Pucciarelli also stated that several months ago, several bicyclists spoke at a Village Council meeting, and the Councilmembers promised to do what they could to enhance their movement through the Village, and to encourage people to use bicycles and other ways to get to the train station. Therefore, he is happy to see that efforts are being made to promote the idea of bicycling, and a way can be found to allow cars and bicycles to move compatibly through the area. That is required by law on State and County roads. Mr. Rutishauser pointed out that bicycles are entitled to the same right-of-way on the roads as motor vehicles, which also means that bicyclists can be issued summonses for motor vehicle violations.

Councilwoman Hauck noted that unfortunately, only two Councilmembers can be present at these types of meetings, so she tried to stand in the hall in order to hear as much as possible. Mr. Rutishauser said that audio was recorded from the meeting, and she was welcome to access it at any time. Councilwoman Hauck stated that the people who attended the meeting are requesting wider roads, and she wondered what will happen to the traffic calming feature, which helps to prevent aggressive driving. Mr. Rutishauser responded that at the beginning of the Garber Square portion, there will still be a pedestrian refuge island for pedestrians crossing Garber Square from the train station to West Ridgewood Avenue. However, the road that any pedestrian must cross in order to get to the refuge island will be a bit wider, so that in the future, if need be, two traffic lanes can be established. The other traffic calming feature in this project is the planned bump out by North Broad Street, which will be constructed. In addition, an island will be constructed in front of the Playhouse at Wilsey Square to help delineate the lanes that are designed for left turns. That island is not an official pedestrian refuge, but it is anticipated that it will be used as such. Striping may also be considered once the project is completed to effect traffic calming, which has worked quite well in the past. Ms. Sonenfeld pointed out that the traffic channelization that is being planned will certainly help in the calming process.

Mayor Aronsohn summarized that the plan is that Councilwoman Walsh will reach out to the members of the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee as soon as possible and bring their input back to the Councilmembers. Ms. Sonenfeld added that it is hoped a decision can be reached by the middle of next week at the latest, so that the construction does not interfere with the Fourth of July activities.

3. MOTION TO SUSPEND WORK SESSION AND CONVENE SPECIAL PUBLIC MEETING

At 8:00 P.M., upon a motion by Councilman Pucciarelli, seconded by Councilwoman Hauck, and carried by unanimous voice vote, the Village Council suspended the Work Session.

5. MOTION TO RECONVENE WORK SESSION

At 9:01 P.M., upon a motion by Mayor Aronsohn, seconded by Councilman Pucciarelli, and carried by unanimous voice vote, the Village Council reconvened its Work Session. At roll call, the following were present: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Walsh, and Mayor Aronsohn. Also present were Roberta Sonenfeld, Village Manager; Heather Mailander, Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney. Councilman Riche was absent.

6. DISCUSSION

a. Budget:

1.) Request Bergen County to Restore Open Space Tax

Ms. Sonenfeld explained that the Open Space Committee prepared a letter to urge the County Executive and Freeholders to fully fund the Bergen County Open Space Trust Fund. Mayor Aronsohn suggested that, unless someone has comments to make about this, perhaps this discussion could be tabled until Councilman Riche is present. The other Councilmembers agreed.

Councilwoman Walsh noted that when she prepared her calculations based on a hypothetical 1% tax increase, Mayor Aronsohn’s tax burden would increase by $.25 annually; and the highest tax increase would be for Councilwoman Hauck, whose burden would increase by $1.41 annually.

2.) Award of Contract – Landscaping Services – Ridgewood Water Properties

Ms. Sonenfeld commented that this is to award a contract for landscaping services. Eight bid proposals were picked up, and four bids were received. The lowest bidder is being recommended. This resolution will be put on the agenda for the June 11, 2014 Public Meeting.

3.) Award of Contract – Lightning Detection System

Ms. Sonenfeld pointed out that this is for the lightning detection system, and it is a shared cost with the Board of Education. This contract will add nine locations in the Village, meaning that every field will have some sort of lightning detection apparatus. The Village’s share of the cost is $25,000, and the Board of Education’s share is $43,875. This resolution will be put on the agenda for the June 11, 2014 Public Meeting.

b. Policy:

1.) Requalification for Community Development Block Grant Program

Ms. Sonenfeld noted that this is a resolution to re-authorize inclusion in the Community Development Block Grant Program. She added that over the years, this program has enabled curb cuts throughout the CBD in residential neighborhoods; the elevator at Village Hall; automated door openers at several locations; ramp entries at The Stable and Graydon Pool; and the latest project is the installation of a ramp from the Graydon Pool parking lot to the Linwood Avenue sidewalk to provide entry to the Graydon Pool facility. This resolution will be put on the agenda for the June 11, 2014 Public Meeting.

2.) Honoring Roger Wiegand

Mayor Aronsohn stated that he and Mr. Loving had a brief discussion, at a previous Village Council meeting, about ways for the Village Council to honor Roger Wiegand’s memory. Three ideas were discussed in particular: a plaque to be placed on the podium facing the member of the public who is speaking at the time; planting a tree somewhere in the Village; and the last was to rename the street near his house in Mr. Wiegand’s memory. In addition to one or more of those possibilities, Mayor Aronsohn thought it might be nice to have a reception in the Sydney V. Stoldt, Jr., Courtroom.

Councilman Pucciarelli said he thought implementing all three of the suggestions made by Mayor Aronsohn would be a good idea, and it fits within the qualifying criteria for the dedication of Village property, unless Mr. Rogers disagrees.

Councilwoman Walsh believes the idea of placing a plaque on the podium would be the best way to honor Mr. Wiegand’s memory. She also pointed out that at this time of year, Mr. Wiegand would ride his bike around the Village and paint the poles for the Fire Department, and perhaps a "painting day" could be organized in his memory.

Councilwoman Hauck recalled that when she was running for Village Council, Mr. Wiegand was very warm and friendly to her, and encouraged her to feel comfortable at meetings. She does not believe they shared the same views on everything, but she felt very comfortable around him. Mr. Wiegand was a very warm and friendly person to all. In addition, Councilwoman Walsh pointed out that Mr. Wiegand was a gadfly, yet the Councilmembers all have great affection for him, and that is what made him so unique and special, because somehow he managed to be a gadfly without being abrasive or irritating. He was able to, as Socrates said, "sting the people out of complacency, preventing the city from becoming intolerant and careless, without offending anyone". Mr. Wiegand never showed any disrespect or needled or sabotaged anyone, but he was always polite and good-natured, as well as being committed to listening. Councilwoman Hauck would like to distinguish his service as a prodder, an energizer, and a civic volunteer.

Mayor Aronsohn suggested that they wait for Councilman Riche to be present before they make a final decision about how to honor Mr. Wiegand. He also suggested that perhaps the Shade Tree Commission could consider honoring residents like Mr. Wiegand by planting trees in their memory.

c. Operations:

1.) Snowplowing Agreement with Bergen County

Ms. Sonenfeld stated this will approve the snowplowing agreement with Bergen County, in which the Village receives payment from the County to plow County roads in Ridgewood. This resolution will be put on the agenda for the June 11, 2014 Public Meeting.

7. MANAGER’S REPORT

Ms. Sonenfeld gave an update on the status of Cottage Place Lot 12, which is the parking lot between The Gap and the Gilsenan Real Estate Office, for which an RFP had been issued. Two proposals were received, one of which looks lucrative. It is in the amount of $75,000 for the ground lease and Mr. Rutishauser will be evaluating them over the next couple of weeks and bring a recommendation to the Councilmembers.

Councilwoman Walsh stated that one of her concerns has been who is determining whether that lease valuation is appropriate, and she asked Ms. Sonenfeld about the process. Ms. Sonenfeld said it was agreed that it would be necessary to find someone with the technical expertise to do that appraisal.

Next, Ms. Sonenfeld commented on the ordinance regarding abandoned property in the Village. Processes and procedures are now being developed, and the committee who will be doing those evaluations has been formed.

Regarding the coin theft, Ms. Sonenfeld reported that the overall revenues for the Parking Utility have increased by approximately 4%. However, she still has not received the engagement letter from the Joint Insurance Fund (JIF) about the forensic accounting review. Mr. Rogers has been monitoring the issue very closely, and he spoke with the attorney for the JIF, who said they were still working on the letter, and the situation is being decided by a committee. The contractual arrangements must be made for the forensic accounting review.

Turning to the subject of the Redevelopment Zone, Ms. Sonenfeld met with Blais Brancheau, Village Planner, and discussed the situation with Mr. Rutishauser. They are now working on an RFP that will be discussed with the Councilmembers when it is ready. She estimates that it will probably be another three weeks before the RFP will be ready.

In her responses to residents’ comments, Ms. Sonenfeld brought up an issue first raised by Mr. Loving about the Town Garage site, and whether or not it could be used for surface parking. A letter has been received from the owner indicating his potential interest in surface parking, and she said she will discuss it with Mr. Rutishauser.

Another resident had expressed some anger about the condition of North Road, and Ms. Sonenfeld visited that area with Mr. Rutishauser. There was no traffic, except for two people coming out of their driveways. There were no significant potholes or depressions, and the Village had done some work on the road the day before. Therefore, the current recommendation, which has been shared with the resident by letter, is that the street will be put on the paving schedule for 2015-2016. Ms. Sonenfeld pointed out in the letter that there was an opportunity to demonstrate a piece of equipment that possibly could have put a layer of asphalt over the current layer, and the resident has not yet responded to that opportunity.

At one of the "Meet the Mayor" events, another resident was concerned about Twinny Park. Her house backs up on the park, and she is concerned about the appearance of the park. The resident would like the dead trees, stumps, and branches to be removed from the park. Ms. Sonenfeld and several other Village employees visited the park, but because Twinny Park is considered a conservation area, little maintenance is and can be performed there. As a result, when trees fall, they are allowed to decompose, which provides an environment for the wildlife. A protected redheaded woodpecker resides in one of the trees that has fallen, so that tree cannot be moved. In addition, the park is also a glacial cattle pond, and it is viewed as a riparian habitat, which means that areas that are 50 feet from the water’s edge cannot be disturbed. The only maintenance that is performed there is maintenance to alleviate areas that are precarious to individuals who are hiking, such as a tree hanging over a trail, or a large branch impeding the trail. Ms. Sonenfeld spoke to the resident, and sent a letter to her, telling her that normal cleanup activities will be performed in the park, after which time it will be revisited with her.

Mr. Loving had also raised the issue of the Glen Avenue Recycling Center being used for the rabies clinic. After observing the area, Ms. Sonenfeld said there seems to be a confluence of issues. One of those issues is that the rabies clinic that was recently held also offered the micro-chipping service for pets, causing an increase in the volume of people attending the clinic, which led to the traffic volume increasing. There was also a parking issue. The consensus is that because the dogs are sheltered at that location, while there is no shelter available at Graydon Park, it would again be held at the Glen Avenue Recycling Center, but the rabies shots and the micro-chipping would be split to avoid the traffic problems. The cat clinic will be held in Ho-Ho-Kus in January. The next shred day is scheduled for September 27, 2014, and consideration is now being given to moving that to Graydon Park. Mayor Aronsohn said that the possibility of separating the micro-chipping service from the rabies clinic should be discussed, because he believes holding the services together provides a great opportunity to educate people who do not know about the advantages that go along with micro-chipping their pets.

Ms. Sonenfeld pointed out that Graydon Pool is scheduled to open this Saturday, May 31, 2014. The good news is that the temporary pipe from Graydon Pool to the sanitary sewer is working, but the bad news is that the temporary pipe is still there. Tomorrow, the laying of the permanent pipe will begin, which will take approximately two weeks. In addition, the sloped entry railing has been installed.

The "Meet the Manager" event will be held on Saturday, May 31^{st, from 9:00 A.M.-12:00 Noon. Appointments have already been scheduled. The Junior Police Academy will be held June 26-July 2, 2014, and the application deadline is June 1st.}

8. COUNCIL REPORTS

Citizens Safety Advisory Committee – Councilwoman Walsh said she would be sending an email to the members of the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee to poll them about the situation at Garber Square.

Bergen League of Municipalities – Councilwoman Walsh stated that she, along with the rest of the Bergen County League of Municipalities representatives, toured the Bergen County Utilities Authority.

Ridgewood Environmental Advisory Committee (REAC) – Councilwoman Walsh pointed out that there is no meeting scheduled for another couple of weeks.

Councilman Pucciarelli commented that Mayor Aronsohn said something about "responsible government," and Ms. Sonenfeld, in her Village Manager’s Report, also noted that the government is responsive, which makes a difference. Councilman Pucciarelli also commented on the number of Village employees and Department Supervisors who attend the Village Council meetings, and he thanked them on behalf of the citizens of Ridgewood for their attendance at the meetings, which is not required.

Planning Board – Councilman Pucciarelli stated that the entire Planning Board is scheduled to meet tomorrow evening to honor Morgan Hurley, a member of the Board who has served for many years, and has also been Chairman of the Planning Board. Mr. Hurley resigned from the Planning Board, and he will be honored at a local restaurant for his many years of service.

Parks, Recreation, and Conservation (PRC) Board – Councilwoman Hauck said she did not have a lot to add about the issue of abandoned structures and properties, because it is simply a matter of watching that come to fruition. It will also make enforcing good neighborly behavior a lot easier in the future. There are some people in Ridgewood who would like things to move faster, but the ordinance will not be adopted until June 11, 2014, and all of the abandoned properties that are found will be addressed at that time.

Councilwoman Hauck reiterated that Graydon Pool will be opening on Saturday, and she hopes that membership increases this year.

Public Library Board of Trustees – Councilwoman Hauck stated that the Public Library Board of Trustees discussed two new things at the Public Library. She noted that the Homework Help Center is not new, but it has not seen a lot of use. Honor students at Ridgewood High School are selected every year by a committee, and they go to the Public Library and give free tutoring in any subject to anyone who needs the help. They do this from 3:30 P.M.-5:30 P.M., Monday-Thursday from October to May. In addition, Nancy Greene is teaching a course on business etiquette to college graduates, which will start on Tuesday, June 24th.

Planning Board – Mayor Aronsohn noted that the Planning Board has two meetings scheduled for next week. The meeting on Monday is to continue the public discussion on the Valley Hospital proposal, and there is another meeting scheduled for Tuesday night.

Access Committee (Ridgewood Community Access Network) – Mayor Aronsohn said the Access Committee will be showing a movie at the Public Library on Thursday, June 5th, called "Murder Ball". The movie’s plot is about a quadriplegic rugby team that played in the Paralympics, and Mayor Aronsohn invited anyone who is interested to come and watch. The movie is scheduled to begin at 7:30 P.M., in the Public Library Auditorium.

Just before this Village Council meeting, Mayor Aronsohn said there was a program in the Courtroom presented by the Ridgewood High School Teen Leads Program. Ms. Sonenfeld added that it was something that is been worked on for a long time. The Teen Leads Program has been modeled after the Bergen County Leads Program, which is currently in its seventh year. Ms. Sonenfeld highly recommends the program, particularly for people who are activists. It is a leadership program in which the participant spends nine months learning about different facets of Bergen County. There is a seminar day every month, and different experts come in to offer their expertise on various facets of Bergen County, as well as experiential visits by the participants. Participants are also given a project to do over the nine-month program, which is presented in a public forum. The head of the program is Pat Schuber, the former Bergen County Executive, and Lynne Algrant, a Councilwoman from Englewood. Ms. Sonenfeld said the idea for the Ridgewood High School Teen Leads Program came from her daughter, who asked why a program like the Adult Leads Program could not be developed for teenagers. This pilot group was given a challenge called the "Mayor’s Challenge," which was to determine the current state of civic participation in Ridgewood in voting and other areas, and how that could be improved. The participants made their presentations today, and their efforts are very commendable. The program is funded by the Ridgewood Education Foundation, and the Volunteer Center of Bergen County. It is currently an extracurricular program at Ridgewood High School, and it will also be an extracurricular program next year. It is hoped that in the third year, it will be made part of the curriculum. Mayor Aronsohn added that one of the major conclusions given during the presentations was that people do not appreciate the importance of local government.

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

11. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION

The following resolution, numbered 14-135, to go into Closed Session, was read in full by the Village Clerk, as follows:

10. ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to come to before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilwoman Walsh, seconded by Councilwoman Hauck, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 9:33 P.M.

PAUL S. ARONSOHN, Mayor

HEATHER A. MAILANDER, Village Clerk