Village Council Public Work Session Minutes 20140507
A REGULAR WORK SESSION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGEOF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR., COURTROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY, ON WEDNESDAY, MAY 7, 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 7:34 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, and Walsh. Also present were Frank Moritz, Director of Operations; Heather Mailander, Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney. Roberta Sonenfeld, Village Manager 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 serving as first responders.
2. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Mayor Aronsohn asked if anyone from the public wished to speak regarding any of the agenda items.
Prior to public comments, Ms. Mailander mentioned that a new business owner, Michael Pickholz, was at the meeting. Mr. Pickholz has opened a new children’s retail store called Kidville in Ridgewood, located at 30-38 Oak Street. He stated that he has been approved for his Certificate of Occupancy, and will be taking over the majority of the old Post Office building. Mr. Pickholz is redesigning both the ground floor and the basement to turn it into Kidville. He explained that Kidville is a concept that was started approximately 10 years ago in Manhattan, and his oldest daughter, who is now 10 years old, was one of its first students. The idea is to create an early childhood enrichment and development center, focusing on everything from music, arts, painting, dance, and sports. Within the facility, there is a theater for children. Theater classes are taught with a four-piece live band, as well as Muppet characters. There is also a fully-padded gym, and Mr. Pickholz noted that in 10 years of operation, there has never been an injury in any of the gyms at any location so far. On evenings and weekends, the facilities are available for special parties, birthdays, and events. Kidville usually tries to work with the public and private children’s institutions in the municipality in which it is located to put on fundraisers and other events for them. Kidville is not a competitor to any nursery school, because it is not a nursery school, nor is it a day care center. Its purpose is to bridge the gap between newborns and when children are old enough to attend nursery school, as well as the transition from nursery school to public schools. Mr. Pickholz worked at the Kidville in Manhattan, and moved to Ridgewood two years ago. After commuting back and forth to the Kidville in Manhattan, he decided to open a location in Ridgewood. Mayor Aronsohn welcomed Mr. Pickholz and Kidville to Ridgewood.
Gary Cirillo, 260 South Pleasant Avenue, commended Ms. Sonenfeld on the budget report she gave when the municipal budget was introduced. Mr. Cirillo watched the videos of the budget introduction meeting, and he found it very easy to follow. However, he asked some questions related to the budget. The first one was a request for verification that the Village really paid approximately $400,000 in unused sick time. Mayor Aronsohn said they would have to get back to him with that answer, because they did not have the information at hand.
Mr. Cirillo’s second question was about the costs associated with the on-going legal matter regarding Valley Hospital, and whether the Village is incurring all of the legal fees. Mr. Rogers asked for clarification as to whether Mr. Cirillo was referring to the legal fees for the Village, or for those who are opposing the redevelopment at Valley Hospital. Mr. Cirillo said he was only asking about the legal fees associated with the Village’s representation, including the fees for the Planning Board attorney, as well as any other fees of that nature. Mr. Rogers responded that speaking from his own experience, his legal fees were paid by Valley Hospital. Christopher Rutishauser, Village Engineer, added that the fees for the hearing process are being covered by Valley Hospital, until a decision in the matter is made by the Planning Board.
The next item mentioned by Mr. Cirillo was regarding Roger Wiegand. He suggested that if any future consideration is given to the naming of a building or a park in the Village, consideration should be given to naming it for Mr. Wiegand. While Mr. Cirillo did not always agree with Mr. Wiegand, he did respect the fact that Mr. Wiegand was always looking out for the best interests of Ridgewood, and he is sorely missed.
Mr. Cirillo asked if anyone knows how much money is paid out annually to employees who no longer work for the Village, including payments for insurance, and any other funds paid to former Village employees. Mayor Aronsohn responded that he did not have the information available, but he would have the Village Manager get back to Mr. Cirillo with that information.
Finally, Mr. Cirillo mentioned that Saturday, May 17th, is the annual Ridgewood Project Pride Day. Volunteers will be meeting at the clock tower at 9:00 A.M. Mr. Cirillo invited all current and new Councilmembers, and any other groups or organizations, as well as individuals, to come and help. It takes approximately two hours to complete the whole job. Tomorrow, the Keller Williams real estate people will be coming to help clean out some of the cigarette butts that are in the flowerpots in the CBD, and replenish some of the dirt in those pots. Mr. Cirillo encouraged everyone to come and help on May 17th for an hour or so.
Mayor Aronsohn responded to Mr. Cirillo’s comments about Roger Wiegand, saying that all of the Councilmembers agree with his comments, and they are working on finding a fitting way to honor Mr. Wiegand’s memory. He also thanked Mr. Cirillo for all of his efforts in association with Project Pride.
Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, thanked Mr. Cirillo for all of the work that Project Pride does. Ms. Loving indicated she had sent an email to the Village Manager at Councilman Pucciarelli’s suggestion, and had also discussed the subject with Mr. Cirillo about the fact that the tree wells in the CBD, which are not the responsibility of Project Pride, and do not seem to be anyone else’s responsibility, either. Occasionally, a business owner will put plantings in the tree wells, but most of them are filled with cigarette butts, and are missing dirt. Ms. Loving suggested that perhaps some kind of ground cover could be put over the tree wells, because they look horrible and detract from the look of the CBD, especially next to the beautiful flowerpots put in by the members of Project Pride. Councilman Pucciarelli agreed that the tree wells are not being maintained, and they are really nothing more than giant ashtrays at this time. Ms. Loving agreed, adding that the business owners should not have to bear the responsibility of keeping the tree wells filled with plants, because they do not own the property outside of their shops.
Mayor Aronsohn noted that the Village email servers have been having problems this week, due to switching to a new server. That could be one of the reasons why some emails have not been answered. Mr. Moritz mentioned that Ms. Sonenfeld is currently attending a Municipal Managers’ Conference, and is usually quite conscientious about answering emails sent to her.
Tom LoCicero, 30 Alden Road, Paramus, said he is the owner of All Points Towing Service, one of the licensed towing services for the Village. In 2010, an ordinance was adopted which stipulates towing services can request from the Village Council an increase of up to 2% annually for such services. Ms. Sonenfeld suggested that Mr. LoCicero should attend this meeting to discuss the increase, but her absence from the meeting is probably the reason it is not on the agenda. Ms. Sonenfeld also suggested that Mr. LoCicero and other towing service owners should prepare written data indicating how their expenses have increased over the years, so it could be taken into consideration when making the decision whether to raise the fees. Mr. LoCicero noted that there had been large increases in their expenses over the past four years. He said he would leave the information with Mr. Rutishauser, who could pass them along to Ms. Sonenfeld, and perhaps it could be discussed at the next Village Council meeting. Mr. LoCicero added that he is requesting a 6% increase, because the towing services are entitled to ask for 2% increase each year, but he has not asked for any increases over the past couple of years. However, he noted that the increases in expenses that he has borne are greater than 6% over the past four years.
Robert Wu, 393 Hopper Avenue, a Ridgewood resident for 35 years, distributed some pictures to the Councilmembers. The first was a tax map showing that there is an easement for a storm drain behind the properties between Hope Street and South Irving Street. The second shows the storm drain ditch through the decades, which has become overfilled with yard debris, dirt, and other waste. Mr. Wu commented that it is really just a depression, without any function, because it does not lead any water into the culvert. The culvert is also blocked by all kinds of debris. One of the other pictures shows a depression behind one of the properties. Mr. Wu commented that he knows that the Village is aware of the stagnant water there, because occasionally the Village sends someone to spray for mosquitoes in the area. He showed a picture which shows a puddle behind one of the properties, and another picture shows Mr. Wu’s property, with a large puddle in the storm ditch that is blocked from the adjacent downstream movement of landfill from other properties in the area. Mr. Wu wanted to bring this to the attention of the Councilmembers and the Village Manager to show that the easement is not functioning. He requested that the Village restore the easement back to its original function, which is to lead storm water into the culvert and away from the storm drain.
Mr. Moritz responded that there were some laborers working in that area today, and a lot of the debris in one section of the ditch was cleaned out, allowing water to flow through the culvert pipe. Mr. Wu said he appeared before the Village Council approximately 7 years ago, and some laborers were sent to the area to rake leaves and clear branches, but the dirt has become so bad that the culvert has become non-functional. As an engineer, Mr. Wu believes the ditch needs to be re-graded and the area needs to be cleared so that the water from his property can run through the culvert into the storm drain. Mr. Moritz added that one section of the area had been filled in by one of the homeowners, but the Village is making efforts to try to keep the water flowing. Mr. Wu asked whose responsibility it is to clear the debris and get the storm drain back into working order. Mr. Moritz responded that the Village tries to keep that section clear to allow the storm water to flow. Mr. Wu answered that Mr. Moritz gave the same answer as that from seven years ago, and nothing has been done, because the area is still blocked. The puddles still accumulate behind the properties. Mayor Aronsohn suggested that Mr. Wu leave his contact information, and that someone from the Village would take another look at the area to see what can be done. Mr. Wu asked if the Councilmembers could tell him if the Village is responsible for maintaining the easement, and keeping it clear. Mr. Rogers responded that the easement would have to be checked in order to make that determination. Mr. Wu pointed out that the tax map shows the easement, and Mr. Rogers stated that their tax map shows that the easement is there, but it does not show the easement agreement. There had to be an easement agreement at the time that the subdivision was built, which has to be checked. Mr. Wu said he would correspond with the Village Manager on this matter.
Leonard Eisen, 762 Upper Boulevard, wanted to pay tribute to Roger Wiegand. Mr. Wiegand was a responsible citizen of Ridgewood, who attended every Village Council meeting for many years. He paid close attention to proposed ordinances, and identified possible errors or omissions. Residents of Ridgewood owe him a debt of gratitude for the work he did. Mr. Eisen called on one or more citizens who care about the Village and want to carry on Mr. Wiegand’s noble works. Mr. Eisen looks forward to hearing comments from such citizens in the future.
There were no other comments from the public at this time, and Mayor Aronsohn closed the time for public comment.
3. MOTION TO SUSPEND WORK SESSION AND CONVENE SPECIAL PUBLIC MEETING
At 7:55 P.M., upon a motion by Councilman Pucciarelli, seconded by Councilman Riche, and carried by unanimous voice vote, the Village Council suspended the Work Session.
4. MOTION TO RECONVENE WORK SESSION
At 8:00 P.M., upon a motion by Councilman Pucciarelli, seconded by Councilwoman Hauck, and carried by unanimous voice vote, the Village Council reconvened its Work Session. At roll call, the following were present: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Riche, Walsh, and Mayor Aronsohn. Also present were Frank Moritz, Director of Operations; Heather Mailander, Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney. Roberta Sonenfeld, Village Manager, was absent this evening.
5. PROCLAMATION
Proclaim May 4-10, 2014 Drinking Water Week
Councilman Pucciarelli read the following proclamation:
6. PRESENTATION
a. American Cancer Society’s “Relay for Life” – Ridgewood High School Project Interact
Britta Potter, President, and Kaitlin Chieco, a member of Project Interact, made this presentation to the Councilmembers. Ms. Potter explained that Relay for Life is a program that has been on-going for many years at Glen Rock High School. Ms. Potter has been the team captain for the past two years, and this year she handed leadership over to Brittany Chung, who could not be here this evening. This year, the team is named “For David,” in honor of Ms. Chung’s father, who passed away several years ago from cancer. In addition, Ms. Potter thanked the Village Council for allowing the members of Project Interact this past weekend to engage in a day called “Paint the Town Purple,” because purple is the official color of the event. Last Saturday, members of Project Interact were hanging flyers and ribbons all over Ridgewood to make the community aware of the events. Ms. Potter said the community has been very supportive, and many donations have been received. The goal has been to get the community involved and getting support from the Councilmembers. The two hours of activity during the “Paint the Town Purple” day raised approximately $230, which shows how much the community cares. Ms. Potter expressed appreciation on behalf of the members of Project Interact for all of that support, and she also thanked the students who are members of the club for their participation. The Relay for Life will be held on Saturday, May 17th, and the week leading up to it will be “Relay Week” at Ridgewood High School, with a different theme each day to help raise money and support at the high school for the event and the cause.
Ron Panicucci is the Chairman of the Relay for Life event for 2014 in Glen Rock. Mr. Panicucci has been involved with Relay for Life for approximately six years. He got involved through his daughter, who was part of a team from Immaculate Heart Academy, and he was asked to chaperone this event at the time. Mr. Panicucci did not know what it entailed, except that it was an overnight event. Mr. Panicucci has lost many relatives and friends to cancer, and he acknowledged that just about everyone in the room has been touched by cancer in some way. He explained that Relay for Life is the American Cancer Society’s number one fundraising event. It was started approximately 27 years ago by a doctor whose wife had cancer, and he decided to honor her memory by walking around a track for 24 hours. Since that time, it is been an annual event. Relays are held in over 5,000 communities across the United States, and in 21 foreign countries. It is now the world’s largest fundraising activity. Mr. Panicucci explained that the Relay for Life in Glen Rock is now in its 11th year, and each year consistently raises more than $100,000, with the last couple of years bringing in more than $140,000. There are approximately 600 participants in Glen Rock. It is an overnight event, starting at 3:00 P.M. on Saturday, and ending at 5:00 AM on Sunday. The reason it is an overnight activity is due to the symbolism attached to it. Each stage of the evening, night, and morning represents different stages of cancer, including diagnosis, treatment, and aftermath. There are other activities that occur simultaneously while the walking occurs. The tagline for Relay for Life is “Celebrate, remember, and fight back”. “Celebrate” means to celebrate the fact that there are survivors amongst us, whether they are those who are currently fighting cancer, or have successfully fought it. At the opening ceremony at 3:00 P.M., the survivors are honored, and they walk the track first. They are followed by a lap for caregivers who have helped someone going through cancer. After that, the teams and all other walkers can join the walk. The intent is to have someone from each team on the track all night long, but it is difficult due to the fact that some of the other activities are also occurring. The other important aspect is the “remember” portion of the activities. Participants remember those who have passed with a luminary service, at which poems are red, songs are sung, and speakers can talk about those who have been taken by cancer. This takes place as darkness falls, with the luminary bags lit at approximately 9:00 P.M. Those in attendance can pay for a luminary bag to honor someone who succumbed to cancer, and Mr. Panicucci said they typically sell approximately 3,000 bags, which line the inside and outside of the track. The last part of the slogan is “fight back,” which is represented by ceremony that promotes ways to prevent cancer, including having regular checkups; eating healthy; not smoking; using sunscreen, as well as other preventive measures.
Mr. Panicucci commented that the Relay for Life of Glen Rock has become known as a Glen Rock High School event. However, he stated that they have been working very hard this year to erase that perception. The school has hosted the event, but it is really a community event. Church groups, business groups, and individuals put teams together to participate. One of the benefits of being involved with this cause is that Mr. Panicucci has had the opportunity to interact with many different people in many different areas of life, and he commended the students from Ridgewood High School’s Project Interact club for their efforts. Mayor Aronsohn thanked Mr. Panicucci for his presentation, as well as for his leadership and participation in these efforts.
Nancy Riley, a teacher from Ridgewood High School who is the sponsor of Project Interact, thanked Glen Rock for embracing the Project Interact members from Ridgewood. She is often asked why there is no event held in Ridgewood, and she explained that the event has become so big that would be impossible to do in Ridgewood. This year, the survivor speaker will be one of the teachers from Ridgewood High School, who will be telling her story at 3:00 P.M. So far, Project Interact has raised approximately $5,000 through its school efforts, and they hope to double it. Donations can also be made online at www.relayforlife.org.
7. DISCUSSION
a. Budget:
1.) Award of Contract – Animal Control Services and Waterfowl Management
Mr. Moritz explained that it is recommended to award this contract to TYCO Animal Control Services, who have been used in the past. The contract amount is $30,000, broken down to $25,050 for animal control services, and $4,950 for waterfowl management. Councilwoman Hauck was curious about why the Village is charged a flat fee, as well as for each individual call. Mr. Moritz said he would get that information and get back to her. This resolution will be put on the agenda for the May 14, 2014 Public Meeting.
2.) Approve Change Order – SCADA System Upgrades – Water Pollution Control Facility
Mr. Moritz pointed out that SCADA is the acronym for Supervising Control and Data Acquisition, which is basically the computer system that is used to remotely control the various operations within the Water Pollution Control Facility. The Water Utility also makes use of SCADA programs, because it is the most economical and efficient way to run the facility. It is being recommended that the change order in the amount of $28,925 be approved for Keystone Engineering Group. This resolution will be put on the agenda for the May 14, 2014 Public Meeting.
3.) Rental of 1057 Hillcrest Road
Mr. Moritz commented that this is simply the rental agreement for the property located at 1057 Hillcrest Road. Councilman Pucciarelli was curious about the rental amount, which is $3,969 per month. He asked why the number was not rounded up to $4,000, or to some other rounded figure. Mr. Moritz asked Janet Fricke, Assistant to the Village Manager, how that figure was decided. Ms. Fricke explained that the lease is a renewal, and the rent has increased at a fixed percentage based on the consumer price index for several years, but it has been flat for the past couple of years, due to the market. Councilman Pucciarelli noted that in 2015, if the lease is renewed by the tenant, the rent will increase by the cost-of-living adjustment in this area. He also pointed out that all utilities are paid by the tenant. This resolution will be put on the agenda for the May 14, 2014 Public Meeting.
4.) Award of Contract – Service and Repairing of Electric Source
Mr. Moritz pointed out that this contract is for the service and repair of an electrical source at the Water Utility. It is recommended to award the contract to Roberge Electric Company, in the amount of $55,350. Roberge has been performing this service for the Water Utility for many years, and has been doing so in a consistently satisfactory manner. The amount is based on hourly rates for the different-sized crews. Councilwoman Walsh asked if Mr. Moritz has any idea why no one else bid on this contract. Mr. Moritz responded that part of the reason is probably due to the fact that Roberge also does some telemetry and fiber-optic work for the Village, and not every electrical service is capable of such work. Councilman Walsh asked how a benchmark could be placed on this price, if that is the case. Mr. Moritz responded that the prices submitted by Roberge have been consistent over the years, and this price is comparable to prices from five years ago. He also pointed out that the price will be the same for 2015, although the contract is awarded on a yearly basis. This resolution will be put on the agenda for the May 14, 2014 Public Meeting.
5.) Award of Contract – Co-Location of Wireless Communication Networks & Support Facilities
Mr. Moritz stated that the Water Utility accepted bids for microwave antennas to be situated atop the tank on Glen Avenue, and two bidders responded. Both bidders can be awarded bids, because the award is based on the height of their equipment. Therefore, the Water Utility will receive $97,344 yearly from the highest bidder, and $42,732 from the second-highest bidder. Councilman Pucciarelli asked if this is new revenue, and Mr. Moritz responded that it is. This resolution will be put on the agenda for the May 14, 2014 Public Meeting.
b. Policy:
1.) Interest Charged to Delinquent Significant Sewer Dischargers
Mr. Moritz noted that this is parallel to how delinquent payments to the Water Utility are handled, by establishing a late fee for such payments. The Village Council agreed to put this resolution on the agenda for the May 14, 2014 Public Meeting.
2.) Authorize Mailing of Estimated Third-Quarter 2014 Tax Bills
Mr. Moritz explained that the tax rate has been calculated based on Bergen County, which taxes will increase 1.5%; and the Ridgewood Board of Education, which taxes will increase 2%; and the municipal levy is the same as that of 2013, due to a 0% tax increase. Councilwoman Hauck asked why the Councilmembers were given this information, and if it is just for informational purposes. Mr. Moritz responded that the Councilmembers must authorize the mailing of the estimated tax bills. Councilwoman Hauck thinks everyone should see that information. Councilman Pucciarelli pointed out that the average assessment will be $204 more than that of 2013, with $193 of that coming from the Board of Education, and $21 from Bergen County. Councilwoman Walsh noted that the percentage for the Board of Education seems to be in error, because according to the newspaper, that portion should be 1.908%, not 1.560%. Steven Sanzari, Chief Financial Officer, answered that the estimated rate is purely an estimate, and the tax rate for the schools and the County are not over-estimated. This resolution will be put on the agenda for the May 14, 2014 Public Meeting.
c. Operations:
1.) Draft Ordinance for Abandoned Structures
Mr. Moritz noted that this is a draft ordinance for abandoned structures, which covers properties that are not maintained in acceptable condition. He thinks it will put the Village in a good position to have this type of ordinance, so that something can be done about properties that are in a state of neglect and disrepair. Councilwoman Hauck pointed out that this was discussed at a Village Council meeting in March, and everyone was in agreement that the Village needs an ordinance to clarify this type of situation to enable the Village to take action on properties that are vacant and abandoned, creating problems for the neighborhood. They detract from the quality of life, foster crime and blight, and add to public health issues and other dangerous conditions. However, a policy must be created so that it can go on record when a property is deemed to be a problem and the owner is notified. Once there has been notification, there is a series of steps that the owner can go through to remedy the situation, and it will make it easier for Village staff to enforce the law. This ordinance is based on a State statute, which clearly spells out the particulars of property maintenance for abandoned structures.
Councilman Pucciarelli noted that there are due process requirements that must be followed, and “abandonment” is broadly defined. For the purposes of the statute, “abandonment” includes properties in need of rehabilitation; properties on which construction was initiated and discontinued for a period of six months; and properties for which one installment of property tax remains unpaid and is delinquent. A property can also be determined to be a nuisance by the Property Maintenance Officer.
Mayor Aronsohn reiterated that, as he pointed out last time, this affects a relatively low number of properties in Ridgewood. However, as Councilwoman Hauck has noted, it is a very serious situation, because it can lead to safety and health concerns, as well as impact property values in the area. Mayor Aronsohn believes this is a proactive approach to the problem. He asked if this is ready to be introduced next week, and Mr. Rogers said he believes it is, unless anyone has additional questions.
Councilwoman Walsh pointed out that there is a property known to all of the Councilmembers in the Redevelopment Zone that fits several of the criteria listed, and asked if that property will be excluded from this ordinance. Mr. Rogers responded that once the ordinance is adopted, from that date forward, any property that fits the criteria could be included, and acted upon, according to what the ordinance permits the Village to do. That includes the creation of an abandoned property list, which starts the process for dealing with that property and creates the opportunity for remediation. Creation of the abandoned property list gives the Village and the property owner an opportunity to have a dialogue, the intent of which is to try to remedy the condition.
Councilman Riche commented that in section 3 of the proposed ordinance, he does not understand how “legally occupied” is defined. He assumes it means that no one is living on the property. However, Councilman Riche noted that some residents of Ridgewood could theoretically be living somewhere else for six months of the year, if they have second homes. Mr. Rogers pointed out that such properties would not fit the criteria, because the additional criteria listed in items a-d must also be met. Councilman Riche stated that it would be possible, for example, for a property owner to live six months a year in Arizona, and return to Ridgewood to find that a quarterly tax payment is now 11 days late. According to this ordinance, the property would be considered to be abandoned. Mr. Rogers said that is not necessarily true. Councilman Riche noted that the ordinance states that only one of the additional criteria must be met in order for the property to be considered abandoned, and Mr. Rogers said that is not the intent of the ordinance. Councilman Riche said he understands the intent, but he wanted clarification for taxpayers who own multiple properties. Mr. Rogers responded that even if that occurred, it would initiate a process in which notification would be made to the property owner before any other action is taken to place the property on the abandoned property list. The property owner has a chance to respond before any other action is taken. The criteria in the ordinance are the same criteria in the State statute, and Mr. Rogers commented that the first step is communication. Mayor Aronsohn noted that the wording in the ordinance does not compel the Village to take action, because the word “may” is used.
Councilman Pucciarelli said he favors getting the attention of the homeowner, and missing one tax installment would certainly do that. He also pointed out that notification is not the end of the process, but it is the trigger for the process. In addition, a property may be occupied, but not “legally occupied”. For example, a home under construction that is unoccupied could have occupants, but it is not a legal occupancy. Mr. Rogers added that people with more than one home, who live in Ridgewood for six months of the year and elsewhere for the rest of the year, could still meet the criteria as legal occupants of that property.
Councilwoman Hauck stated that, according to what she read in the State codes, houses uninhabited by persons; lots in need of maintenance, repair, or securing; and one or more of these items: lack of construction activity; multiple complaints to police of trespassing or turned off utilities; and lack of furniture in the house are just some of the indicators that would show that no one is living in a house. Mr. Rogers also noted that the last time this was discussed, the question was asked about whether this would apply to commercial as well as residential properties, and it does.
Councilman Riche asked how foreclosures would fall into this process. Councilwoman Walsh responded that the bank usually pays the taxes on foreclosed properties, and Councilman Pucciarelli noted that the ordinance provides for lienholders to receive notice of any of these proceedings.
This ordinance will be put on the agenda for the May 14, 2014 Public Meeting.
2.) Draft Ordinance for Sustainable Jersey – Green Team
Mr. Moritz noted that Sustainable Jersey is a certification program for municipalities that they want to “go green,” save money, and preserve the quality of life over the long-term. This ordinance will provide for the establishment of a Green Team, to be approved by the Village Council. This ordinance will be put on the agenda for the May 14, 2014 Public Meeting.
3.) Authorize Execution of Train Station Easement
Mr. Moritz explained that this easement was based on the Bergen County Historic Preservation Trust. This resolution will be put on the agenda for the May 14, 2014 Public Meeting.
4.) Declare Vehicles Surplus – Various Departments
Mr. Moritz pointed out that this will declare vehicles from various departments surplus, because they are no longer in use. This gives the Village the ability to legally dispose of them on GovDeals.com, or at auction. This resolution will be put on the agenda for the May 14, 2014 Public Meeting.
8. REVIEW OF MAY 14, 2014 AGENDA
Ms. Mailander stated that next week, there will be a presentation made to some Municipal Court volunteers.
Ms. Mailander announced that the Public Meeting would also include the following Proclamations: National Cancer Survivors Day; Emergency Medical Services Week; Proclaim May as Mental Health Month; Honor Pro Arte Chorale on 50th Anniversary; Honor Arthur Wrubel for Service on the Historic Preservation Commission; and Honor Francis “Frank” Schott for Service on the Open Space Committee.
Ordinances to be introduced are: Lease 1057 Hillcrest Road; Abandoned Structures Ordinance; Bond Ordinance – Paving; and Sustainable Jersey – Green Team.
The Public Hearings on ordinances include: Amendment to Redevelopment Zone; Establish a CAP Bank; General Capital Ordinance; Water Capital Ordinance; Parking Utility Capital Ordinance.
Resolutions include: Designate the “Honor and Remember” Flag as Official Symbol of Those Who Died in Line of Duty and Urge U.S. Congress to Adopt It As an Official National Symbol; Approve Shared Services Agreement – Sludge Disposal (Passaic Valley Sewerage Commission); Award Contract Fiber Optic Communications Equipment for Ridgewood Water; Award Contract – Fiber Optic Communications Equipment for Ridgewood Water; Title 59 Approval – Horticultural Supplies; Award Contract – Horticultural Supplies; Title 59 Approval – Laboratory Analysis Services – Ridgewood Water; Award Contract – Laboratory Analysis Services – Ridgewood Water; Award Contract – Animal Control Services and Waterfowl Management; Approve Change Order – Water Pollution Control Facility; Authorize Execution of PSE&G Access Consent Agreement; Declare Police Vehicles Surplus Property; Declare Vehicles from Various Departments Surplus Property; Establish Gift Contribution Guidelines; Authorize Execution of Train Station Easement; Authorize Mailing of Estimated Third-Quarter 2014 Tax Bills; Establish Interest Rate for Non-Payment of Significant Sewer Discharge Fees for 2014 and Set Grace Period; Award of Contract – Service and Repair of Electric Source; Title 59 Approval – Service and Repair of Electric Source; Co-Location of Wireless Communications Networks and Support Facilities; Title 59 Approval – Co-Location of Wireless Communications Networks and Support Facilities.
9. MANAGER’S REPORT
Mr. Moritz reported from notes made by Ms. Sonenfeld. They include the fact that the budget newsletter will soon be ready, and it has been developed in a new format which is much more explanatory. Ms. Sonenfeld thanked the 2014 Financial Advisory Committee (FAC) for their help in developing a clearer, more streamlined document.
Mr. Moritz also reported that Ms. Sonenfeld said she would be conducting “Meet the Manager” meetings starting Saturday, May 31st, from 9:00 A.M.-12:00 noon. Ms. Sonenfeld requests that residents make appointments at 15-minute intervals with her Administrative Assistant.
In addition, Mr. Moritz mentioned a traffic alert for paving construction work to begin on the west side of Wilsey Square and Garber Square from Godwin Avenue, going under the train trestle to Franklin Avenue. Residents should expect traffic congestion in that area for the next three months during construction. To avoid delays, try to use alternate streets to get around the construction.
Finally, Mr. Moritz noted that there are some recycling programs available to residents. One of them is Second Chance Toys, which allows residents to drop off any plastic toys in working order at the Fair Lawn Recycling Center, which will be distributed to children in need. There is also the Habitat For Humanity Re-Store, located in Wayne, accepting donations of new and gently used furniture, working appliances, and building and plumbing supplies. The Clothing and Textile Collection at the Ridgewood Recycling Center accepts clothing that can be reused, as well as damaged clothing that can be recycled.
10. COUNCIL REPORTS
Historic Preservation Commission – Councilman Pucciarelli commented that the Historic Preservation Commission will meet on Thursday evening, May 8th, and their agenda is on the Village website.
Ridgewood Arts Council – Councilman Pucciarelli said the Ridgewood Arts Council will meet on Thursday, May 22nd, at 2:00 P.M. in Village Hall.
Planning Board – Councilman Pucciarelli stated that he believes the Village Council can expect to receive the zone criteria for the Redevelopment Zone on Walnut Street and Franklin Avenue, which the Planning Board reviewed for a second time at the last meeting.
Councilman Pucciarelli reminded everyone that there is a Municipal Election coming up on Tuesday, May 13th, and encouraged everyone to get out and vote.
Councilman Riche had no committee reports to make, but he did want to mention that he has noticed that he and other property owners who fly American flags on their properties have sustained a lot of damage to their flags due to the severe winter that passed. He reminded everyone that there is a proper way to dispose of those flags. There is an old mailbox located at the Ridgewood Police Department in Village Hall for disposing of tattered American flags.
Councilwoman Hauck asked Mayor Aronsohn if he would help her with the Mayor’s Wellness Campaign Logo Competition, and she asked what the slogan is. Mayor Aronsohn responded that the slogan is “Good Life Ridgewood”. Councilwoman Hauck explained that the Mayor’s Wellness Campaign will not officially begin until July, but a part that has begun is the weight loss challenge being done with the Borough of Fair Lawn. The Mayor’s Wellness Campaign is a State-wide initiative that the Mayors of all communities are encouraged to pursue. It is a collaborative effort with all of the Village Departments, the Chamber of Commerce, the Ridgewood Guild, the Public Library, the YMCA, the Board of Education, and any other organization that would like to get involved. Mayor Aronsohn added that the idea came up at a Mayors’ meeting, and he realized that Ridgewood does a lot, but it is not coordinated, and many people are not aware of this initiative. Right now, efforts are being made to catalog the various departments and organizations, as well as create a Facebook page. People will be able to see what activities are occurring, and make decisions about which ones to watch or participate in. It is not just about physical health, but mental health, as well. The logo competition is primarily among the schools in order to get students participating in the campaign. Mayor Aronsohn stated that they are also trying to come up with some type of activity to be associated with it, such as a “family Olympics”. Councilwoman Hauck noted that the weight loss challenge will finish on June 10th. There will be a “Zumba on the Beach” party at Graydon Pool for everyone who is involved in this effort. So far, approximately 150 people from Ridgewood and Fair Lawn have participated in the weight loss challenge. The winning logo will be placed with the slogan on T-shirts and any other paraphernalia associated with this initiative.
Planning Board – Mayor Aronsohn stated that the Planning Board met last night and discussed Valley Hospital, as well as the multi-unit family housing proposal. There are approximately four meetings left regarding Valley Hospital, with the next two meetings being reserved for public comment. Those meetings will be on May 20th and June 2nd. The third meeting will involve getting the charge from the Planning Board attorney to discuss the vote that will be taken. The vote on the current proposal will be held on June 17th.
Next, Mayor Aronsohn pointed out that a program will be held on Saturday, May 10th, when the Ridgewood Gilbert and Sullivan Opera Company will be doing a special performance at 2:00 P.M. at Benjamin Franklin Middle School for kids with special needs. It is open to everyone, but is geared towards children with special needs.
Mr. Moritz added that the Bergen Joint Insurance Fund (JIF) stated today that they will be paying for the forensic accounting firm involved in the issue of the stolen quarters, and they will provide the name of the accounting firm to the Village tomorrow.
11. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Mayor Aronsohn stated 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, mentioned that on Wednesday, May 14th, there will be a free rabies clinic at 6:00 P.M., and she believes it will be at the Recycling Center. Mayor Aronsohn thanked Ms. Loving for this information. Ms. Mailander added that dogs can also be microchipped at the event.
Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, noted that the water tank on Glen Avenue is actually in Midland Park, and he had not seen any information in the newspapers regarding zoning applications for the new cellular carriers on the water tank. Mr. Moritz responded that it is incumbent on the carriers to get permission from Midland Park for those antennas. Mr. Loving asked if that meant that the Village would be approving the resolution prior to approval being obtained by the Borough of Midland Park for the placement of the antennas, which Mr. Moritz confirmed. Mr. Loving asked if approval of the resolution is necessary before zoning approval can be obtained. Mr. Rogers responded that the resolution is not needed before the zoning approval, but the contract will not become effective until the zoning approvals are obtained. Mr. Loving recalled that many years ago, Ridgewood’s communications equipment at that location were housed in a wooden shed in the back, and he wondered if a concrete structure had been built since that time to house the equipment. Mr. Moritz responded that the communications structure has changed, but he was not sure how many years ago that happened.
Next, Mr. Loving asked if the actual tax rates will be lower than the rate for the school taxes, meaning that the Village will collect less money than is needed, despite the fact that Mr. Sanzari said that the difference could be made up in November. Mr. Sanzari explained that the estimated tax bills are estimated based on information that is known. The rate is slightly less than what the Board of Education had indicated. The fourth-quarter bill will be an actual bill. Mayor Aronsohn asked why the estimated rate is lower if the Board of Education portion is known. Mr. Sanzari said the amount is based on assessments. Mr. Loving believes the Village should collect what is needed now, so that it can be put in the bank and earning interest, rather than waiting until November to try to catch up. Mr. Sanzari explained that the estimated bills are very close to what will be needed, but the County rate is unknown at this time, although it is assumed that there will be a 1.5% increase. If the increase is not that much, an adjustment can be made in the fourth quarter. The same applies to the Board of Education portion of the tax bill.
Finally, Mr. Loving commented that every once in a while, someone refers to the “blighted” property located in the Redevelopment Zone. Due to the need for additional parking in the Central Business District, Mr. Loving wondered why no one had ever thought to ask the property owner if the property could be used as a surface parking lot, instead of letting it sit and continue to deteriorate. Mr. Rogers recalled that sometime around 2007, an effort was made and some communication given to the property owners at that time to see if the property could be used as a surface parking lot. That request was denied. Mr. Loving noted that it is now 2014, and he believes that ownership of the property has changed since 2007, and perhaps it is time to approach the current owners with another request.
There were no other comments from the public at this time, and Mayor Aronsohn closed the time for public comments.
12. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Pucciarelli, seconded by Councilman Riche, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 8:55 P.M.
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Paul S. Aronsohn
Mayor
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Heather A. Mailander
Village Clerk
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