Village Council Public Meeting Minutes 20140312
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, MARCH 12, 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 8:00 P.M., and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. At roll call, the following were present: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Riche, Walsh, and Mayor Aronsohn. Also present were Heather Mailander, Acting Village Manager/Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney.
The Webelos Cub Scout Pack 33 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 February 28, 2014, be accepted as submitted. Councilman Riche seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Riche, Walsh, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Village Council minutes of January 8, January 29, and February 19, 2014, having been reviewed by the Village Council and now available in the Village Clerk’s Office, be approved as submitted. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Riche, Walsh, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
4. PROCLAMATIONS
A. Declare March Red Cross Month
Councilman Riche read the following proclamation:
B. Declare March Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
Councilman Pucciarelli read the following proclamation:
C. Declare March as DeMolay Month
Councilwoman Walsh read the following proclamation declaring the month of March “DeMolay Month”. Prior to the reading of the proclamation, Nick, a member of DeMolay, explained that DeMolay is a young men’s fraternity, open to ages 12-21. Its goal is to teach young men to be good leaders and upright citizens. Members follow seven core values on which to build their lives: filial love; reverence for sacred things; courtesy; comradeship; fidelity; cleanliness; and patriotism. Members participate in membership events, as well as performing community service.
5. SWEARING-IN OF FIREFIGHTER TIMOTHY BOMBACE
Mayor Aronsohn administered the Oath of Office to Firefighter Timothy Bombace, while his daughter held the Bible and his parents looked on.
6. SWEARING-IN OF FIREFIGHTER BRIAN KELLY
Mayor Aronsohn administered the Oath of Office to Firefighter Brian Kelly, while his mother held the Bible and his father and brother looked on.
7. SWEARING-IN OF FIREFIGHTER DANIEL KOSTRO
Mayor Aronsohn administered the Oath of Office to Firefighter Daniel Kostro, while his mother held the Bible and his family looked on.
8. SWEARING-IN OF FIRE LIEUTENANT JOHN JUDGE
Mayor Aronsohn administered the Oath of Office to Fire Lieutenant John Judge, while his son held the Bible and his wife and parents looked on.
9. SWEARING-IN OF FIRE CAPTAIN SCOTT SCHMIDT
Mayor Aronsohn administered the Oath of Office to Fire Captain Scott Schmidt, while his daughter held the Bible and his wife and son looked on.
10. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Mayor Aronsohn asked if anyone from the public wished to speak regarding any of the agenda items.
Martin Walker, 114 Cottage Place, said he has lived in Ridgewood for approximately 7 years, and he is a clinical psychologist with a post-doctoral certification in organizational consultation, which he has used as a consultant to communities and various organizations. Mr. Walker said he is also a Fulbright scholar and a professor of the integration of three countries for the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). He said he is very concerned about how Ridgewood is growing as a community, and he has read about a lot of initiatives in Ridgewood, but he is not seeing the two things that he feels are key to any community in any controversies or other issues that divide communities. Mr. Walker said he does not see the word “community,” “family,” or “future” in any of the things that he reads about Ridgewood. He feels it is essential that any kind of leadership authority in community organizations must deal with how far into the future the community and its residents can project themselves. People are discussing telephone poles, building heights, and the impact of what is happening with Valley Hospital, among other things, but Mr. Walker said he does not hear anything about a vision for the entire community, and he would like to know where that leadership will come from. It seems to Mr. Walker that the two perennial certainties are aging and taxes, and they provide the most stable variables around which to articulate any family community’s future. Every one of us will age, and the fact that tax revenues are tied to property values means that taxes will increase indefinitely. Visionary leadership must articulate some way of dealing with those two issues for Ridgewood. As far as aging is concerned, Mr. Walker said he does not know whether Ridgewood is an aging-in community or an aging-out community. He wonders if Ridgewood should be required to provide space in which people can live for all their lives, or only parts of their lives, and whether old age should take place within Ridgewood, with easy access to the places people love, or should the elders have to go somewhere else.
Mr. Walker continued by saying that as far as taxes are concerned, currently Ridgewood’s greatest human asset is that children often return to create new families in the Village, and he questioned whether that should be encouraged. The current tax structure demands that children be wealthier than their parents in order to live in Ridgewood in the future. As one of the wealthiest communities in New Jersey, Mr. Walker said that is a statistical impossibility. Visionary leadership requires clear choices. He asked if the future of this family-based community should be reserved exclusively for those who earn more, and if the elderly residents should be exiled to some far away location.
In closing, Mr. Walker said that he personally would like to see a Ridgewood that calls for a future of increased tax revenues and decreased family tax burdens by way of over-55, high-density housing in the CBD, as well as assisted living facilities in the CBD, which can also increase economic activity without burdening the schools. Visionary leadership is required in order to make that happen.
Mary Romano Micale, 239 Heights Road, thanked the Councilmembers for their service to the community, and expressed her support for their choice for Village Manager, Roberta Sonenfeld. Ms. Micale and Ms. Sonenfeld work together on the Ridgewood Education Foundation, and Ms. Micale found Ms. Sonenfeld to be smart, capable, and deeply committed to the community. Ms. Sonenfeld is also well-versed in best practices for organizations, and exercises sound financial judgment. In addition, she is a rational and thoughtful decision-maker. Most importantly, Ms. Sonenfeld listens. Ms. Micale said she has no doubt that Ms. Sonenfeld will bring her skills and passion for Ridgewood to the position of Village Manager.
Inés Bunza, 335 Jeffer Street, said she also wanted to support Roberta Sonenfeld for the position of Village Manager. Years ago, when Ms. Bunza served as Federated Home and School President, she crossed paths with Ms. Sonenfeld as they were implementing computer systems, and Ms. Sonenfeld was extremely helpful with that endeavor. Some years later, their paths crossed again through the Ridgewood Historical Society and the Ridgewood Education Foundation. As the Treasurer of both of those organizations, Ms. Bunza said she could count on Ms. Sonenfeld to ensure that her numbers and finances were on track.
Mac Highet, 219 Madison Place, said he worked for 40 years in finance and operations management. For the past six months, he has worked with Ms. Sonenfeld on the Financial Advisory Committee. That gave him an opportunity to better understand what goes on in the Village; what some of the issues are; and what some of the challenges are. It was a wonderful opportunity for Mr. Highet to gain an understanding of what challenges are faced by Ridgewood. He also was on the Board of the Volunteer Center of Bergen County with Ms. Sonenfeld. One of the things he has come to realize during his time on the Financial Advisory Committee is that there is a need for strategic thinking, including thinking more about the next five or 10 years, rather than focusing on just the year ahead. Strong financial and operational skills are clearly needed, as well as the ability to prioritize. Hands-on management skills are essential. Mr. Highet said he has been very impressed with many of the people he has worked with in the Village, but they do need a manager, and it must be someone who can work with them to get things done. In addition, the Village Manager should be someone who can reach outside the community to see what other towns are doing, as well as what the State and County are doing. The Village Manager must be someone who can make decisions, because time is critical. Mr. Highet said it has upset him that there are quite a few issues in Ridgewood that have been around for 10-15 years without being resolved. Lastly, Mr. Highet believes the Village Manager must be loyal to Ridgewood, and someone who will work in the best interests of the taxpayers and continue to make Ridgewood the best place to live. Mr. Highet believes that all of the skills he has enumerated can be found in Ms. Sonenfeld. He can vouch for her input when sitting on a Board, as well as working with her on the Financial Advisory Committee. Mr. Highet thinks the Village is very lucky to have someone as strong as Ms. Sonenfeld, who is willing to step up and do this very difficult job.
John Johansen, 115 Lincoln Avenue, said he also supports Ms. Sonenfeld for the job of Village Manager. He believes Ms. Sonenfeld is exactly the person needed to be the Village Manager of Ridgewood. She has the operational management experience to do the job very well. In addition, she is a student of Lean and Six Sigma operational excellence, and forward-thinking communities all over the country are including these tenets in their municipal governments with great success. They are increasing the transparency of their municipal operations; increasing satisfaction levels in their communities; and minding the bottom line. Mr. Johansen pointed out that that is a tall order, and Ms. Sonenfeld has the experience to achieve those goals. She has also successfully lead and motivated teams. There is a great workforce in the Village, and harnessing their talent is critical to the success of the Village Manager. Ms. Sonenfeld has worked with large and diverse teams, and motivated them toward common goals. She is a self-admitted “policy wonk,” who digs into the details of issues, understands them, works them out, and implements solutions. Given a few minutes walking from one meeting to the next, she is less likely to ask about the weather, and more likely to ask for thoughts about what she has heard another municipality working on. Mr. Johansen calls Ms. Sonenfeld a “connector,” because she is able to constructively connect people in groups, and will work to improve the connection between Village Hall and the community, as well as the connection Ridgewood has with surrounding communities, the County, and the State. Finally, Mr. Johansen pointed out that Ms. Sonenfeld is a customer for the very services to be provided by her team. Ms. Sonenfeld is the right person at the right time for Ridgewood, according to Mr. Johansen.
Janice Willet, 207 Prospect Street, added her support of Ms. Sonenfeld as the new Village Manager. Ms. Willet thinks that is the best possible news for the people of Ridgewood. Ms. Sonenfeld is a seasoned executive with a proven track record of success in the private sector, and she has a deep sense of commitment to the Village. Ms. Willet said she has known Ms. Sonenfeld for just the few months that they have worked together on the Financial Advisory Committee, but her professionalism, integrity, and intelligence were evident from the start. In addition, Ms. Sonenfeld possesses excellent listening, organizational, and operational management skills, making her exactly what the Village needs. Ms. Willet believes that under Ms. Sonenfeld’s leadership, Ridgewood will address its fiscal and operating challenges and set an example for other municipalities. Ms. Willet praised the Councilmembers for making this appointment.
Kim Bangash, 208 Crest Road, said he also applauded the nomination of Roberta Sonenfeld for Village Manager. Mr. Bangash met Ms. Sonenfeld through the Ridgewood Education Foundation, where they were both members. He has witnessed her sharp, sober professionalism, as well as an impressive level of energy.
Suvajit Basu, 101 Heights Road, stated that he also supports Ms. Sonenfeld for the position of Village Manager. Mr. Basu is also a member of the Ridgewood Education Foundation, and he noted that Ms. Sonenfeld has made the Foundation better in many constructive ways. She is very inclusive, and makes every effort to bring people together to go over every detail and keep everything on track. Mr. Basu thinks that is a very necessary trait for the Village Manager.
Jim Griffith, 159 South Irving Street, mentioned that he is also pleased that Ms. Sonenfeld will be the new Village Manager. However, Mr. Griffith wanted to comment about his activities in connection with the Community Center. Mr. Griffith said that the members of the Community Center Advisory Board have looked at other communities to see what they should do, and have implemented as much as they possibly could. Mr. Griffith believes the activity at the Community Center in the past nine months has increased by 50%-100%. He added that they are currently in the process of putting together specific numbers for the Village Council. Mr. Griffith is impressed by the fact that the group has reached out to the entire Village to bring them in to take advantage of what is going on in the Community Center. It is a surprise to Mr. Griffith that the Village senior bus has become so loved by the senior citizens in Ridgewood, and he believes it will have to increase its operations from its current level of two days a week. The senior citizens refer to it as “their” bus.
Mr. Griffith noted that there are some shortcomings in the Community Center room on the first floor, and some of them are serious. He is surprised at the number of people who use the room, and what its limitations are. Mr. Griffith understands that the Councilmembers are entering the budget process, and he asked if it is possible to make that level completely Code-compliant. Many different groups use that area.
Mike Stern, 71 John Street, stated that he also supports Ms. Sonenfeld for the position of Village Manager. Others have spoken to the character of Ms. Sonenfeld, and Mr. Stern noted some of the behaviors and qualities that he has seen. They work at the Volunteer Center Bergen County together. Mr. Stern commented that Ms. Sonenfeld is the type of person who admits when she makes a mistake; she does what she says she will do; she tells the truth; she speaks out when she sees something wrong; she gives constructive feedback; she accepts feedback gracefully; she is respectful; she says yes if she means yes; and while she may not have management experience in a municipality, Mr. Stern applauds the Councilmembers’ choice because he thinks it is a courageous move to take someone without that experience, but who has values and qualities that are important.
Gary Cirillo, 260 South Pleasant Avenue, said he also welcomes Ms. Sonenfeld as the new Village Manager. Mr. Cirillo commented that he has lived in Ridgewood for more than 20 years, and that parking and taxes were issues more than 20 years ago, and they will be issues more than 20 years in the future. He pointed out that when one considers the taxes in Ridgewood, the fact that senior citizens remain in Ridgewood is amazing. Mr. Cirillo believes that anything that can be done to help the senior citizens to stay in Ridgewood should be done, including taking care of the Community Center.
Next, Mr. Cirillo pointed out that there was a lot of snow this year. He saw a lot of people out on their sleds at Citizens Park, and he does not understand why there is a section of rocks left on the hill coming down the slope. It looks dangerous to him, and he has asked before why it has not been removed.
As President of Project Pride in Ridgewood, which is a volunteer organization that provides all of the flowers and “kissing balls” in the CBD, as well as planting those flowers and getting rid of all the cigarette butts, Mr. Cirillo said it is becoming very difficult to continue with those beautification efforts. The gift ordinance in Ridgewood prohibits anyone from donating $100 to him, because that person would be prohibited from applying for any type of permits or any other requests from the Village. Mr. Cirillo asked if there is any threshold for receiving gifts. Mr. Rogers responded that the gift ordinance was amended in 2010, and it now gives the Village Manager the authority to establish parameters for accepting gifts. If necessary, and at his/her discretion, the Village Manager could get approval from the Village Council. Mr. Rogers did not believe that a $100 gift ever created a problem in the Village. Mr. Cirillo stated that someone wanted to donate $100 to Project Pride, and when he spoke to the previous Village Manager, the amounts of $500 and $5,000 were discussed, but no definite amount had ever been decided. Mayor Aronsohn suggested that this matter be put on the agenda for discussion at the March 26, 2014, Work Session meeting.
In closing, Mr. Cirillo reiterated that Project Pride is comprised of volunteers, who do everything in the CBD. Last year, their budget was cut by nearly 50%. Mr. Cirillo believes that what they do is extremely important, and he asked that their budget be restored as much as possible.
Cynthia Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, is the Vice President for the Conservancy of Ridgewood Public Lands. Ms. Halaby said they are trying to maintain the parks, and are currently working on North Broad Street alongside Project Pride volunteers. In addition, Ms. Halaby is a member of the Women Gardeners, who maintain the gardens at Memorial Park at Van Neste Square.
Mike Velicu, 250 Hope Street, said he also owns a restaurant that is one of Ms. Sonenfeld’s favorite restaurants. He apologized to Ms. Sonenfeld for all the evenings he ruined by commenting and whining, and said that Ms. Sonenfeld always calmly and honestly listened to what he had to say. She often came up with solutions for him. Mr. Velicu believes that Ms. Sonenfeld will be a wonderful addition to the Village staff.
Leonard Eisen, 762 Upper Boulevard, stated that about a week ago, he attended for the first time one of the luncheons sponsored by Councilwoman Hauck. Mr. Eisen found it to be outstanding. A photographer was showing some beautiful color slides of nature, after which an Irish lunch was served of corned beef, cabbage, and soda bread. Mr. Eisen was very impressed.
There were no other comments from the public at this time, and Mayor Aronsohn closed the time for public comment.
11. MANAGER’S REPORT
Ms. Mailander noted that Ridgewood was recognized by the Joint Insurance Fund (JIF) with its Safety Incentive Program Excellence Award for safety practices and training in 2013. The award includes a grant of $1,000.
Ms. Mailander reminded everyone to sign up on the Village website at www.ridgewoodnj.net to receive Ridgewood information. E-notices are used by the Village to provide electronic information to residents regarding Ridgewood emergency alerts; anticipated and current severe weather conditions; as well as sanitation and other service changes. Anyone who has not yet signed up is encouraged to take a few minutes to do so. Postcards are also available at Village Hall to sign up.
The Ridgewood Service Request System (RSR) is currently active for people to register and report locations of potholes. The link to register is located on the right side of the Village website. Pictures of potholes can be uploaded. In the future, this will be expanded to include other service requests.
As this was her last Public Meeting as the Acting Village Manager, Ms. Mailander wanted to thank some people for their help: the Village Council for their faith in her, and for giving her the opportunity to serve as Acting Village Manager of Ridgewood; and the Department Directors, Supervisors, and all of the Village employees who work so hard every day for Ridgewood residents. Ms. Mailander also pointed out that in this unusual year, with leaves that came down all at once; near-record snows; and record-breaking low temperatures, she wanted to thank all of the Village residents who are willing to be flexible in bringing their garbage cans to the ends of their driveways in order to keep Village employees safe. Finally, to everyone who encouraged her and was available to her for guidance and input, Ms. Mailander said she appreciated it from the bottom of her heart. She wished Ms. Sonenfeld the best as she takes on the position of Village Manager, and Ms. Mailander looks forward to working with Ms. Sonenfeld in the years to come.
Mayor Aronsohn thanked Ms. Mailander for stepping in and accepting the challenges of the position, as well as maintaining her position as Village Clerk.
Councilman Pucciarelli remarked that Ms. Mailander is the most patient as well as the most efficient person. Nearly every email sent by a resident to a Councilmember was given to Ms. Mailander to deal with, and she got the job done.
Councilwoman Walsh commented that Ms. Mailander is the “rock” for all of the Councilmembers, who takes care of everything they need, and responds instantly to whatever is asked of her.
Councilman Riche noted that he and Ms. Mailander have the longest relationship of anyone on the Village Council. One of the things he thinks is so wonderful about her is that she has a great capacity to listen, and while they do not always agree, because Ms. Mailander has been in the Village for a long time, she seems to know what can be done, and how to get around things that cannot be done. Moreover, she is always accessible. This has been a very heavy burden for Ms. Mailander and her family, and Councilman Riche thanked her for everything that she always does.
Councilwoman Hauck pointed out that emails come in around the clock, every day of the week. Ms. Mailander responds to every email that is sent to her. She is very firm, but also very kind, and leads by example.
Ms. Mailander thanked the Village Council for their kind words and also thanked her family for their love and understanding in allowing her to serve as Acting Village Manager. The Village Council and those in the audience gave Ms. Mailander a standing ovation for the work she had done over the past seven months as Acting Village Manager.
11. COUNCIL REPORTS
Bergen County League of Municipalities – Councilwoman Walsh said she traveled down to Trenton with the members of the Bergen County League of Municipalities, where they listened to several different panels discuss go-forward plans for New Jersey; Council on Affordable Housing (COAH); and shared services.
Ridgewood Environmental Advisory Committee (REAC) – Councilwoman Walsh stated that REAC had applied for two Sustainable New Jersey grants, and one of the grants was received today. At the time the grant application was made, the members of REAC were also trying to develop the Shade Tree Commission, and it is hoped that the grant money will go to the Shade Tree Commission to help start some of their projects.
Councilman Pucciarelli commented that he has raised four children in this community, and he believes it is a wonderful place in which to raise children. However, as previously mentioned, it can also be a wonderful place for senior citizens. Mr. Walker challenged the Village Council to create a vision for Ridgewood that makes it an accommodating place for senior citizens. Councilman Pucciarelli hopes that the vision from the Planning Board, Village Council, the Historic Preservation Commission, and throughout all the other community groups can make a place for alternative housing for senior citizens. He thanked all of the groups and individual residents for their challenges and their efforts.
Ridgewood Arts Council – Councilman Pucciarelli reported that the Ridgewood Arts Council, as previously mentioned, has expanded its mission to include, among other things, the provision of art and music in the first floor rooms of Village Hall. They will be presenting their ideas at the March 26, 2014 Work Session meeting.
Fourth of July Committee – Councilman Riche said that although it is March, the Fourth of July Committee is already at work planning for the Fourth of July celebration in the Village. New volunteers are always welcome, as well as donations. The entire day is funded by volunteers and donations.
Public Library Board of Trustees – Councilwoman Hauck reported that the luncheon sponsored by the Friends of the Public Library was held today at Seasons Restaurant in Washington Township. There were 375 guests, including author Meg Wolitzer, author of the book “The Interestings,” who was phenomenal and thought-provoking.
Planning Board – Mayor Aronsohn reported that the Planning Board met this week to discuss Valley Hospital. They will be meeting again next week to discuss Valley Hospital and the Redevelopment Zone that was requested by the Village Council.
Mayor Aronsohn also went to the League of Municipalities meeting in Trenton, and it was his first opportunity to see Lieutenant Governor Kim Guadagno in action. Mayor Aronsohn was impressed by the Lieutenant Governor, who discussed the importance of working with local business communities.
12. RESOLUTION 14-77 – Appoint Village Manager
Mayor Aronsohn commented to everyone what a long and difficult process it was to hire a new Village Manager. The Village Manager is basically the Chief Executive Officer overseeing the day-to-day activities of the Village. The Councilmembers were not interested in getting a new Village Manager quickly, instead they were more concerned with choosing the right person. The entire process has taken more than six months, and the Councilmembers are confident that they have chosen well.
Ms. Mailander read Resolution #14-77, in full, as follows:
Prior to voting on the resolution, the Village Councilmembers made their comments. Mayor Aronsohn commented that he has known Ms. Sonenfeld for several years, and that he has gotten to know her better as a member of the Financial Advisory Committee.
Councilwoman Walsh agreed that this was an arduous task for the Councilmembers. More than 50 applications were received from highly qualified individuals. Councilwoman Walsh said she treated this as a human resources function. She never worked with Ms. Sonenfeld, and Councilwoman Walsh did not know any of the other candidates, although she thought she might have met some of them once or twice over the years at different Village functions. However, she had no knowledge of their backgrounds or what they might have been involved with. Councilwoman Walsh felt that there were several more qualified candidates than Ms. Sonenfeld, and she expressed her concerns to Ms. Sonenfeld more than once during their meetings. Ms. Sonenfeld responded that she will do the best job that she can possibly do for Ridgewood, and Councilwoman Walsh wishes her well.
Councilwoman Hauck believes that the Village Manager should be the face of the Village and set an example for everyone, residents as well as employees. Ridgewood needs someone who has the natural ability to lead it through the very choppy waters of people, politics, and finances. Councilwoman Hauck thinks that Ms. Sonenfeld is eminently qualified to do so. Moreover, she believes that Ridgewood is extremely blessed to find someone who lives in the Village and wants to combine her passion for people and her passion for Ridgewood with the talents that she has developed over 30 years of managing large departments and large budgets. Ms. Sonenfeld has a great deal of experience in Ridgewood, working with so many different committees and on a significant number of volunteer endeavors. Her experience covers a great deal of the scope of Ridgewood.
Councilman Riche pointed out that the Village of Ridgewood is a $50 million per year business, with nearly 300 employees. The Village services almost 25,000 residents, as well as many visitors who come to the CBD for dining and shopping, as well as people who come for sporting events. The services delivered by the Village require resources, competent staff, leadership, and significant resident support through property taxes. The Village Council has a responsibility to create policy as well as funding mechanisms to ensure that all services are delivered in an effective and financially sound manner. The Village government is completely in the hands of the CEO, or the Village Manager, on a daily basis. The Village Council, by law, is prohibited from directing any employee. The oversight falls solely on the Village Manager. The process of selecting a new Village Manager should always recognize the importance of that job description. It is critical for the CEO to have extensive experience in State Civil Service regulations and procedures; union negotiations, because there are seven unions in Ridgewood; bargaining skills; and acumen to navigate the day-to-day morass of State regulations and requirements. During the interview process, as Councilwoman Walsh noted, many qualified candidates came forward, with a breadth of municipal experience. Their knowledge of Civil Service and State regulations was extensive. Their experience with union contract negotiations was commendable. Many of the candidates also had a thorough knowledge of the intricacies of running a utility, such as Ridgewood Water. The pool of candidates represented the best of what municipal government veterans could offer. This appointment, in Councilman Riche’s view, is much too important for the residents and the taxpayers of Ridgewood to have an on-the-job training program. Councilman Riche said he wishes Ms. Sonenfeld all the best, but for that reason, he cannot support this appointment.
Councilman Pucciarelli said he had the pleasure of working with Ms. Sonenfeld on the “Tiger Team,” and then most recently, on the Financial Advisory Committee. Ms. Sonenfeld attended every meeting of the Financial Advisory Committee, and she contributed so much to their body of work. The inescapable conclusion for Councilman Pucciarelli is that she is very bright, and a very quick study. He does not believe that she will learn on-the-job, but has already learned, and she is well-equipped for the position that he hopes she will undertake after this vote. Ms. Sonenfeld is a critical thinker, and not a “yes” person. Her alternatives to the Village Garage problem prove that point. Councilman Pucciarelli believes it is necessary to find new ways to approach government, having seen where the old ways would take us. The Tiger Team report supports that view, showing that the budget is always going up, and always for the same reasons, without improving services, but eroding them. In Councilman Pucciarelli’s view, it is an inescapable fact that new ways must be found to look at things and approach problems, and he is convinced that Ms. Sonenfeld, among all the candidates interviewed, is the best person to accept those challenges.
Ms. Sonenfeld thanked the Councilmembers, and everyone who spoke during the public comments. She said that this is her dream job, and that after spending 30 years in very senior positions that she was lucky to have, and several more years serving on Boards and Committees at the municipal and County levels, she believes the combination of all of that brought her to this point. Ms. Sonenfeld is passionate about Ridgewood, and she loves Ridgewood. She is also passionate about the fact that Ridgewood must institute some financial sustainability. However, as she noted in one of the Financial Advisory Committee reports, Ridgewood’s success cannot be measured solely on financials. Success has to be measured in at least four different ways, and one of them is definitely financial, but another one is the “customers,” who are the residents of Ridgewood. Customer satisfaction is the key to success. Another key measure of success is employees, because happy employees make happy clients. Ms. Sonenfeld said she is interested in staff development, and she is rather surprised that there is no human resources professional in the Village. The fourth area for success is to examine the way things are done and the quality of the processes, which entails looking at what others are doing and finding opportunities across the County in order to move ahead.
- 13. ORDINANCES
- a. Introduction – #3409– Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Establish Fees for Use of Mobile Concession Stand
Mayor Aronsohn moved the first reading of Ordinance 3409. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Riche, Walsh, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3409 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 145-6 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD ENTITLED “ENUMERATION OF FEES RELATING TO CODE CHAPTERS”
Councilman Riche moved that Ordinance 3409 be adopted on first reading and that April 9, 2014, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Riche, Walsh, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- b. Introduction – #3410 – Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Graydon Pool – Establish Membership Fee for a Resident Patron with a Permanent Disability
Mayor Aronsohn moved the first reading of Ordinance 3410. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Riche, Walsh, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3410 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 145-6 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD ENTITLED “FEES”
Councilwoman Hauck moved that Ordinance 3410 be adopted on first reading and that April 9, 2014, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Riche, Walsh, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- c. Public Hearing – #3405 – Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Significant Sewer Discharge Fees
Mayor Aronsohn moved the second reading of Ordinance 3405 and that the Public Hearing be opened. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Riche, Walsh, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3405 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 145 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, FEES, AT SECTION 145-6, “ENUMERATION OF FEES RELATING TO CODE CHAPTERS”
Mayor 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 Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Riche, Walsh, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Riche moved that Ordinance 3405 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Riche, Walsh, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
d. Public Hearing – #3406 – Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Day Camp Fees
Mayor Aronsohn moved the second reading of Ordinance 3406 and that the Public Hearing be opened. Councilwoman Hauck seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Riche, Walsh, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3406 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 145, FEES, OF THE VILLAGE CODE FOR DAY CAMP FEES
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 Hauck seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Riche, Walsh, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilwoman Walsh moved that Ordinance 3406 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Riche, Walsh, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
e. Public Hearing – #3407 – Amend Chapter 249 – Streets and Sidewalks – Parking Charges for Bagging Meters in the Central Business District
Mayor Aronsohn moved the second reading of Ordinance 3407 and that the Public Hearing be opened. Councilman Riche seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Riche, Walsh, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3407 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 249 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, STREETS AND SIDEWALKS, AT SECTION 249-42, “PERMIT REQUIRED” AND SECTION 249-48, “CONDITIONS FOR PERMIT”
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 Riche seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Riche, Walsh, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Pucciarelli moved that Ordinance 3407 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Riche seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Riche, Walsh, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
14. RESOLUTIONS
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 14-61 THROUGH 14-75, WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA, WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:
15. 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.
Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, commented that it is now known from reading the newspapers that Councilman Riche and Councilwoman Walsh will not be seeking re-election, and there are still several months of Village Council work ahead of them, but Ms. Loving wanted to thank them for all the work they have done. She also thanked the candidates who are stepping up to run for Village Council.
Ms. Loving wished Ms. Sonenfeld all the best, but she does have concerns about her appointment as Village Manager. Ms. Loving has been very impressed with the reports from the Financial Advisory Committee, but she does not know Ms. Sonenfeld or her work at all, and Ms. Loving was shocked to read that the Councilmembers planned to hire someone with no experience running a municipality. As a clinical microbiologist, Ms. Loving said that in order to get a job in her field, it was necessary to have specific education in that field. In order to get better jobs in her field, ones that are comparable to being the Village Manager of Ridgewood, it would have required significant experience. Ms. Loving commented that she trusts that the decision of the Village Council is the right one, but she was shocked that no one with all of Ms. Sonenfeld’s qualities, plus experience with municipalities, could be found to be the Village Manager.
Leonard Eisen, 762 Upper Boulevard, congratulated Ms. Sonenfeld on her appointment as the Village Manager. He also noted that the vote was not unanimous, and he hopes that, over time, Ms. Sonenfeld will be able to prove herself so that eventually all of the Councilmembers can agree about her appointment.
There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Aronsohn closed the time for public comment.
16. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION
The following resolution, numbered 14-78, 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 9:23 P.M.
_____________________________
Paul S. Aronsohn
Mayor
_________________________________
Heather A. Mailander
Village Clerk
- Hits: 2387