20171004 - Village Council Work Session

REGULAR WORK SESSION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY ON OCTOBER 4, 2017 AT 7:30 P.M.

 

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

Mayor Knudsen called the meeting to order at 7:35 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. At roll call, the following were present: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen. Councilman Voigt was absent. Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney; and Donna M. Jackson, Deputy Village Clerk.  

Mayor Knudsen led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and held a Moment of Silence for all the men and women serving our nation; all first responders; all the victims of the recent shootings in Los Vegas and their families and friends; and dear friend and Planning Board member, Isabella Altano, who passed away this weekend.

2. 2. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

Mayor Knudsen opened the public comment portion of the meeting.

Jane Shinozuka, 825 Norgate Drive, asked the Village Council to consider naming the park, proposed for the Schedler property, in honor of Isabella Altano, in recognition of the hard work she put into this project. Ms. Shinozuka volunteered to work on this endeavor. There was a round of applause.

Tony Damiano, 274 South Broad Street, stated that the business community was not aware of the Central Valet Service Pilot Program for the Central Business District (CBD), that is scheduled to begin on Friday, October 6, 2017. Some of the owners of businesses located near the Van Neste Square parking lot expressed concerns, since customers can currently park free in this lot after 6:00 p.m. and, under the Central Valet Pilot Program, must now pay $5.00 to park. Mr. Damiano felt the pilot program will only benefit restaurant owners who do most of their business in the evening. Restaurant customers, whose average stay is 90 minutes, will not object to paying $5.00. However, this fee is not fair for retail customers, whose average stay is 15 minutes. Mr. Damiano noted that the use of the lot for the valet service will require other vehicles to be removed from the parking lot between 4:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. He stated that 25% of his retail business is conducted on a Saturday between 4:00 and 6:00 p.m. Mr. Damiano stated that business owners also questioned the length of time customers will have to wait before their vehicles are retrieved, especially in inclement weather.

Mr. Damiano spoke of the importance of having the parking garage up and running before the residential complexes are completed. He felt that the CBD will be in turmoil if all these construction projects start simultaneously, and some businesses will be forced to close, as construction could conceivable go on for two years.

Mr. Damiano questioned where the approximately 100 vehicles, that presently park in the Ken Smith and Brogan lots, will park when the residential construction begins on these lots, if the garage is not in place.

Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, asked for an explanation of the audit process involved in the Central Valet Pilot Program, particularly as it involves the following issues:

• Verification of the number of cars that use the service. Mr. Loving understood that 250 vehicles need to use this service each evening in order for there to be no cost to the taxpayer.
• The accountability and security of the cash portion of this business, and assurance that the Village will be receiving this cash.
• The way valet ticket validations will be controlled to avoid a situation where more than one business validates a valet ticket.

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

Councilman Hache explained that there is one validation per ticket, and it is done electronically.

Mayor Knudsen explained that the Central Valet Pilot Program will last only three months. There is a great deal of information available involving the existing valet operations, that are currently working under an ordinance that was passed by a previous Village Council. This information has created a better understanding of how a valet program run by the Village might work.

Concerning the impact this valet service pilot program will have on retail shops, Mayor Knudsen suggested that the retail shops remain open on Friday and Saturday nights until 9:00 p.m., which would create a vibrant, walkable, interesting, and pedestrian-friendly CBD. Many people like to shop after eating at a restaurant.

Mayor Knudsen explained that the valet service pilot program will be analyzed after three months. If everyone participates, the CBD, which is currently thriving and vibrant, will do even better.

Mayor Knudsen pointed out that in the lots where the valet service will exist, the parking capacity will more than double, as a result of stacking.

Mayor Knudsen noted that, if and when a garage is built, the parking meters will be extended to 9:00 p.m. in order to fund the garage.

Mayor Knudsen stated that the Village Council will look into the best way to honor the memory of Isabella Altano, and her work on behalf of the Schedler Property, and on behalf of the Village in her roles as a member of the Planning Board and the Historic Preservation Commission. Ms. Altano will be greatly missed as both a colleague and a dear friend.

3. 3. PRESENTATION
4. 1. Ridgewood American Legion Post 53 - “The Spirit of America’s Story - The                             Wall”

Robert Paoli, Commander, Post 53 American Legion, and Christopher Stout, President, Ridgewood Rotary Club, were present for this presentation.

Mr. Paoli explained that the American Legion would like to present an event, beginning a week before Veterans Day, which falls on November 11, 2018. The event is a traveling exhibit, co-founded by Patricia Sexton, who lost her husband in Vietnam, and Ronald Smith, a Veteran of the Persian Gulf War. The traveling exhibit depicts the involvement of American men and women who served in all the wars since the Revolutionary War. Mr. Paoli felt this was a great opportunity for the Village of Ridgewood. It will be the first time the traveling exhibit is shown in New Jersey. The exhibit consists of panels that are 8 feet high and 10 feet wide. Each panel depicts our country’s engagement in each war. Veterans’ organizations, and well as the Board of Education, churches, and community groups will be asked to promote it. The traveling exhibit will be open to the public.

Mr. Paoli asked for suggestions on locations where this wall could be displayed. The room would have to be very large, with a high ceiling and ample parking. The traveling exhibit must be displayed indoors. Mr. Paoli stated that the Ridgewood Public Library cannot accommodate the traveling exhibit, as it will be undergoing renovations next year. Also, the Anne Zusy Youth Center was found to have ceiling structures that will interfere with the panels. The exhibit will be set-up either Sunday, November 4 or Monday, November 5, 2018 and will be taken down on Monday, November 12, 2018.

Mr. Paoli left information packets for the Village Councilmembers. He stated that the event will be funded by donations from Veterans groups such as the American Legion and the Rotary Club, as well as from private donations. The exhibit also has the support of the Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Daniel Fishbein.

Mayor Knudsen described the traveling exhibit as very exciting, and an opportunity the Village of Ridgewood would not want to miss. Two Village Councilmembers, Councilwoman Walsh and Councilman Sedon, volunteered to assist and pursue every opportunity to accommodate this exhibit.

Mr. Stout referred to the Village Council’s previous approval of the updating of the World War I Memorial Plaque, located in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square, with the addition of the name of Ridgewood resident Pfc. Anthonie J. Wendel. Mr. Stout announced that he applied for grant money under the Pritzker Military Museum and Library in Chicago, Illinois’ nationwide, matching grant competition for the creation, rehabilitation, or renovation of World War I monuments, entitled, “100 Cities - 100 Monuments”, and won the grant. Ridgewood’s World War I monument will now have the nationwide designation of being a World War I Centennial Monument. Mr. Stout stated that he anticipates presenting the Village of Ridgewood with a check covering the entire cost of the restoration in the near future.

Mayor Knudsen thanked Mr. Stout for this exciting news and expressed appreciation for all his work and his service to the Village and the Country.

4. 4. DISCUSSION
5. a. Ridgewood Water
6. 1. Award Contract - Laboratory Analysis

Village Manager/Village Clerk, Heather Mailander explained that this discussion item involves an annual award of contract. Two bids were received, and the lowest qualified bidder was Aqua Pro-Tech Labs, out of Fairfield, New Jersey, at $128,460 for 2018 and $128,460 for 2019. Pricing for the years 2016 and 2017 was $37,520 for 2016 and $47,520 for 2017. The increase in the contract price for 2018 and 2019 is due to the addition of the next round of unregulated contaminant samples and the increased sampling frequency that is required by NJDEP and USEPA.

There were no objections from the Village Councilmembers on drafting an approving resolution for the first year of this contract.

2. 2. Award Contract - Servicing and Repairing Electric Source

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this discussion item involves an annual award of contract. Two bids were received, and the lowest qualified bidder was Vanore Electric, Inc., out of Hackensack, New Jersey in the amount of $105.00 an hour for 2018, and $105.00 an hour for 2019. Pricing for the years 2016 and 2017 was $109.56 per hour.

There were no objections from the Village Councilmembers on drafting an approving resolution for the first year of this contract.

3. 3. Award Contract - Emergency Generator Installations

 

Ms. Mailander explained that Arcadis, Inc., the engineering consultant contracted by the Village for the emergency generator installations, has made a recommendation for the awarding of this contract. Six bids were received. Arcadis, Inc., and Richard Calbi, the Director of Operations for Ridgewood Water, are recommending awarding the contract to the lowest responsible bidder, Environcon, LLC, out of Hackettstown, New Jersey, in the amount of $1,795,617. Environcon, LLC’s bid was more than $68,000 less than the second lowest bidder. The contract involves the installation of emergency generators at eleven critical water facilities, which is essential to maintaining the production, treatment, and distribution of safe drinking water to the public. Under an EPA Administrative Consent Order, these installations must be completed by July 15, 2018.

There were no objections from the Village Councilmembers on drafting an approving resolution awarding this contract.

4. 4. Award Contract - Servicing and Repairing Potable Water Pumping Facilities

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this discussion item involves an annual award of contract. Five bids were received, and the lowest qualified bidder was A.C. Schultes, Inc., out of Woodbury Heights, New Jersey, in the amounts of $185,250 for 2017 and $185,250 for 2018. The 2016/2017 contract was for $191,300 for each year. This service is necessary to complete repairs and replacements on the water system supply, treatment, and distribution equipment contained within the well houses, transfer stations, treatment buildings, and booster stations.

There were no objections from the Village Councilmembers on drafting an approving resolution for the first year of this contract.

5. 5. Award Contract - Furnishing and Delivering Sodium Hypochlorite Solution

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this discussion item involves an annual award of contract. Two bids were received, and the lowest qualified bidder was Miracle Chemical Company, out of Farmingdale, New Jersey, in the amounts of $1.545 per gallon in 2018 and $1.545 per gallon in 2019. The 2016/2017 contract was $3.62 per gallon for each year. The new, reduced pricing is the result of Ridgewood Water now accepting bulk delivery, and distributing the solution with in-house forces to the system treatment facilities. The addition of Sodium Hypochlorite into the water system is necessary to meet regulatory requirements and insure safe drinking water for the public.

There were no objections from the Village Councilmembers on drafting an approving resolution for the first year of this contract.

1. b. Parking
2. 1. Hudson Street Redevelopment Area

Ms. Mailander read from a letter from Michael Cafarelli, Secretary, Village of Ridgewood Planning Board, which stated that the Planning Board of the Village of Ridgewood has voted unanimously in support of designating Hudson Street, Block 3809, Lots 12 and 13, as an area in need of redevelopment. Attached to this letter, which represented a formal referral back to the Village Council, was a copy of the Determination of Area in Need of Redevelopment, as submitted by Brigette Bogart, Village Planner, dated September 1, 2017.

Mayor Knudsen addressed the report prepared by Ms. Bogart entitled, “Downtown Redevelopment Area, Village of Ridgewood, New Jersey, Block 3809, Lots 12 and 13”. Mayor Knudsen noted that the report indicated certain criteria that a lot must meet in order to be designated as an area in need of redevelopment. In this instance, the parcel meets the following criteria:

• the land is owned by the municipality;
• areas with buildings or improvements which, by reason of factors such as dilapidation, obsolescence, overcrowding, faulty arrangements or design, lack of ventilation, light and sanitary facilities, that are detrimental to the safety, health, morals or welfare to the community;
• a growing lack of proper utilization (this is the primary criteria that the property meets as it is so underutilized). Mayor Knudsen referred to a chart contained in the report, entitled: Table 1: Improvement Ratios for Block”, which indicated that the improvement ratios for Lots 12 and 13 are considerably less than the improvement ratios for other lots on the block. Mayor Knudsen compared the improvement ratios for Lot 4 at 77.8%, for Lot 10 at 85.7% and for Lot 14 at 38%, to the improvement ration for Lot 12 at 4.5% and Lot 13 at 0.2%.

Mayor Knudsen explained that even though the property is not a “taxable” property, it is a revenue source for the Village.

In summary, Mayor Knudsen stated that during the deliberation on this issue, the Planning Board members asked many questions, and Ms. Bogart was very responsive to these questions. Ms. Bogart prepared a fairly straight forward report, and the Planning Board unanimously supported designating the subject parcel as an area in need of redevelopment. If the Village Council agrees, a resolution would be prepared approving this designation. Mayor Knudsen noted that if the Village Council wishes to have a plan prepared for the subject parcel, the members would have to authorize a “Plan by Ordinance”. If the Village Council is looking at strictly designating the subject parcel as an area in need of redevelopment, this can be done by resolution.  

Village Attorney, Matthew Rogers stated that he will prepare an outline for the Village Councilmembers so they can better understand the procedure and process, as well as the alternatives that are available, when designating an area in need of redevelopment. Mr. Rogers also suggested having Ms. Bogart present at the Village Council Public Meeting on October 11, 2017 to answer any questions the Village Councilmembers may have.

Councilwoman Walsh felt the chart detailing the improvement ratios for the block should identify the street address of each block and lot. Councilwoman Walsh did not feel it was unusual to have low improvement ratios for the subject lots, as they are vacant lots. Mr. Rogers understood that the criteria on this chart helps support Ms. Bogart’s opinion of underutilization in terms of the use of the property and its ability to be improved.

Mayor Knudsen pointed out that Ms. Bogart’s report indicates that the underutilization of the subject parcel is inconsistent with the 2016 Master Plan Reexamination Report.

Ms. Mailander will provide the Village Councilmembers with the audio from the Planning Board’s deliberations and will post the report prepared by Ms. Bogart on the Village website.

It was the consensus of the Village Council to authorize the preparation of a resolution for consideration at the October 11, 2017 Village Council Public Meeting.

Councilman Sedon questioned how the Village Council will move forward once the subject property is designated as an area in need of redevelopment. He questioned whether the Village would negotiate with Pike Engineering, the firm that has already prepared plans for the parking garage, or whether the Village would solicit several developers to make presentations at Special Public Meetings, which was the case in 2007 when the North Walnut Street parking lot was designated as an area in need of redevelopment. Mayor Knudsen stated that she was open to either process; however, she felt the most important thing was to designate the subject property as an area in need of redevelopment first, and then to go on from there. Councilman Sedon felt it was important to keep things moving. Councilman Hache felt that having a dialogue with as many companies as possible, especially since there are no costs involved, is preferable. Mayor Knudsen noted that this will allow for a more robust negotiation process.

Councilwoman Walsh suggested that building a parking garage on the subject lot may not be the “highest and best use” for the property. Mr. Rogers explained that since the property is owned by the municipality, utilizing the property for its “highest and best use” may not be an important aspect of its development, and is not a required criterion for developing property through the redevelopment process.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mayor Knudsen explained that the chart entitled, “Improvement Ratios for Block”, in Ms. Bogart’s report, was prepared to show the level of underutilization.

1. c. Budget
2. 1. Annual Audit and Corrective Action Plan

Bud Jones of auditing firm Nisivoccia Associates and Village Treasurer, Steve Sanzari were present for this discussion on the Annual Audit and Corrective Action Plan.

Ms. Mailander stated that the Annual Audit had been distributed to the Village Council members this evening. Village Councilmembers must read at least the General Comments and Recommendations section before next week, and have the document signed and notarized.

Mr. Jones explained that a draft report was submitted to Village Administration, where a review resulted in some changes. Conferences were held with the Village Manager, Chief Financial Officer, and Treasurer, and the report was finalized. Mr. Jones reported that the Village is in good financial shape as of December 31, 2016. The Fund Balance for the current fund is basically in the same position as it was at the end of 2014, and there was a slight decrease from 2015. The Water Utility Fund Balance is basically in the same position (an approximate $30,000 difference). The Parking Utility Fund Balance was drawn down slightly, as a result of returning some of the funds back to the current fund, as was planned in the 2016 Budget. The Village is only utilizing approximately 21% of its borrowing margin, so there is a significant amount of debt that the Village could incur if needed. The Village has a borrowing capacity of $221 Million, and is only utilizing less than $47 Million. The Village’s tax collection percentage is above 99%, which is excellent. There was a very slight decrease from 2015.

Mr. Jones pointed out that the recommendations and suggestions contained in the report have decreased from when the audit began. There has been a great effort on the part of the Village staff to implement recommendations and make corrections where needed.

2. 2. Award Contract - Odor Control System - Water Pollution Control Facility

Ms. Mailander explained that the Village received a violation from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) regarding the plant’s inoperable odor control system. The manufacturer of the current system, Continental Carbon Group, offered to examine the current system and determine the effort needed to restore and rehabilitate it to make it operational once again. Continental Carbon Group determined that most of the current equipment can be reused and does not need to be replaced. The quote for this effort is $7,500. Suburban Consulting, a firm that has previously worked with the Village, provided an overall quote of $16,000 to address the Notice of Violation(s) (NOV). Both proposals will provide a roadmap of sorts for how the Village can proceed to make the odor control system operational once again. Once this phase is complete, there will be a construction phase to implement the various recommendations.

Village Engineer, Christopher Rutishauser, is recommending the hiring of Continental Carbon Group for $7,500 first, to provide a detailed assessment of the current odor control system. Once the Village has that report, Mr. Rutishauser recommended working with Suburban Consulting to do the NJDEP permitting for the boiler and the modifications to the odor control system to achieve compliance and address the NJDEP NOV’s. This recommendation was found acceptable to the Village Councilmembers.

3. 3. Award Additional Partial Contract - Road Resurfacing and Repair

Ms. Mailander recalled that the Village Council awarded a $1 Million partial award to JA Alexander of Bloomfield, New Jersey, for paving. A second, partial award for tree planting in the amount of $50,000 will be considered for approval by the Village Council at the October 11, 2017 Regular Public Meeting.

At this time, Mr. Rutishauser is recommending a third, partial award of $700,000 to the contractor for continuing the paving. This would bring the total amount of work awarded to the contractor to $1,750,000, which is $41,710 less than the contractor’s bid.   This recommendation was found acceptable to the Village Councilmembers.

4. 4. Award Contract for Professional Services - Grant Writer

Ms. Mailander explained that she, along with Mayor Knudsen, Councilwoman Walsh, Chief Financial Officer, Robert Rooney, and Mr. Rutishauser met with two grant writing firms, Millennium Strategies, out of Morristown, New Jersey, and Bruno Associates, out of Clifton, New Jersey. Both firms are well respected grant writing firms. It was explained that the Village will continue to submit grant applications for Bergen County Community Development Block grants, Bergen County Historic Preservation and Open Space grants, NJDOT Paving grants, and Police Department grants for campaigns such as “Click It or Ticket” and “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over”, as the Village has been very successful in obtaining these grants. The Village of Ridgewood requires grant writing services to assist in obtaining other grants for which the Village may qualify, but doesn’t have the personnel or expertise available to prepare the grant application, or to find grants for which the Village may not currently know exist.

The cost to hire Millennium Strategies is $3,000 per month, with a 12-month contract price of $36,000, with an option for renewal for another 12 months. There is an opt-out clause, with a 14-day notice required from either side. Millennium Strategies gave assurances that the Village will receive grant money that will exceed the annual cost to hire them. Millennium Strategies has 12 grant writers on staff who will provide the Village with three to four grant opportunities per week for the Village staff to review and decide whether or not to pursue one or more of them. Millennium Strategies will look at stalled projects in the Village to see if there are grant opportunities available to help fund additional phases of projects which are already underway. During the 12-month contract, Millennium Strategies will submit 15-25 grant applications for the Village.

The cost to hire Bruno Associates is $2,666.66 per month, with a 12-month contract price of $32,000. There is also an option for renewal for another 12 months. There is an opt-out clause after 6 months, with a 30-day notice. Bruno Associates has former Municipal Administrators who are their grant writers. They have various relationships within Bergen County, and with some funding sources, which may assist the Village in obtaining grant funding. Bruno Associates indicated that there are many grants available for equipment for Fire Fighters, as well as beautification of the Central Business District (CBD). Bruno Associates also indicated that they may submit multiple grant applications to different entities for the same project. Bruno Associates will submit 12-15 grant applications for the Village during the 12-month contract.

The recommendation is to award a Professional Services Contract for Grant Writing and Consulting Services to Millennium Strategies for a 12-month period, with an option to renew for a second, 12-month period. This recommendation is due to the fact that Millennium Strategies has a greater number of grant writers on staff, and will submit a greater number of grant applications on behalf of the Village, as well as the shorter opt-out notice timeframe. It is believed that the $4,000 difference in price between the two firms will be made up with the greater number of applications being submitted by Millennium Strategies on behalf of the Village.

Councilwoman Walsh stated that both firms were extremely professional and experts in their field; Millennium Strategies was just a better fit for the Village. The hiring of a grant writing firm will free up personnel, time, money and energy. Mayor Knudsen agreed, adding that this will be an exciting opportunity for the Village to secure grant money and to avoid missed grant opportunities.

Under questioning by Councilman Sedon, Ms. Mailander explained that if someone has a particular project in mind, the Village can contact Millennium Strategies to see if any grant money is available. Councilman Sedon noted that the Village will be eligible for C-SIFT Grants for tree planting and maintenance, starting in January, 2018.

5. 5. Award Contract - Chestnut Street Dumpster Pad

Ms. Mailander explained that in 2015, the Village received a sole bid, which quoted a revenue yield to the Village of $105 per month, or $1,260 per year, to operate the dumpster pad at the Chestnut Street Municipal Parking Lot. The dumpster pad is used by nearby restaurants to dispose of their trash. The previous arrangement was to have a different user of the pad maintain it each month; however, this arrangement did not work well. The contractor has now successfully operated the dumpster pad for two years. The contractor would like to renew their contract with the Village for a multi-year period.

Mr. Rutishauser is recommending, if allowed under New Jersey Public Contracts Law, the awarding of a 5-year contract to ConQuest Construction Corporation, out of Westwood, New Jersey, for an annual fee to the Village of $1,260. This recommendation was found acceptable to the Village Councilmembers.

6. 6. Award Contract - Printing of Village Calendar

Ms. Mailander explained that the Village received three different quotes for the printing of the 2018 Village Calendar. The lowest quote was from Ridgewood Press at $10,988. Last year’s price was $10,477. The contract includes the cost of the printing, layout and distribution of 10,500 copies of the 2018 Village Calendar, not including postage.

Ms. Mailander recommended awarding this contract to Ridgewood Press. This recommendation was found acceptable to the Village Councilmembers.

1. d. Policy
2. 1. Proposed Legislative Changes to Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA) and                                     Open Public Records Act (OPRA)

Ms. Mailander called the Village Councilmembers attention to resolutions from the Borough of Harrington Park and the Bergen County League of Municipalities opposing the legislative amendments to OPMA and OPRA, as well as a summary from the NJ State League of Municipalities summarizing the amendments to the bills, and the League’s concerns with the new amendments. Ms. Mailander highlighted some of the concerns as follows:

• Sub-committees would be required to prepare at least quarterly reports of their meetings, and provide public notice and open their meetings to the public. The League’s position is that a sub-committee makes recommendations to the governing body for the governing body to take action. Sub-committees do not expend public funds or make binding decisions.
• The bill expands the definition of government record to include a record that is, “required by law to be made, maintained, or kept on file”. Currently, if an OPRA request is received for a document that does not exist, the OPRA request is denied and there is no violation of OPRA. The League’s position is that by expanding the definition, a Records Custodian will be in violation of OPRA if the record was required to be made (e.g. an old municipal budget) but they are unable to locate the archived record.
• Both bills continue to exempt the Legislature from many requirements of OPMA and all of the requirements of OPRA.

Ms. Mailander noted that the new legislative proposals do not protect municipalities from individuals who submit voluminous OPRA requests.

Under questioning by Councilman Sedon, Ms. Mailander explained that there is language in the OPRA legislative amendments indicating that if the request is for commercial purposes, there could be a special service charge.

Councilwoman Walsh and Mayor Knudsen noted that the minutes from sub-committees could be placed on the Village website. Mayor Knudsen asked the Village Councilmembers to address this issue with the sub-committees they represent.

It was the consensus of the Village Council to draft a resolution, similar to the resolution of the Borough of Harrington Park, expressing opposition to the legislative proposals for OPMA and OPRA.

1. e. Operations
2. 1. Authorization of 2018 NJDOT Paving Grant Application

Ms. Mailander explained that the Village applies for the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) Municipal Aid Grant annually through the Engineering Division. This year the Village will apply for funds to resurface Hillcrest Road from North Monroe Street to Morningside Road. The work proposes sidewalks along Hillcrest Road from Morningside Road to Habernickel Park, in response to resident requests the Village has received. Part of the grant application process is that a resolution be approved by the governing body of the municipality submitting the application.

It was the consensus of the Village Council to authorize the submission of this application.

2. 2. Best Practices Worksheet

Ms. Mailander explained that the Best Practices Worksheet is an annual worksheet required by the State to determine the amount of State Aid a municipality will receive. The worksheet contains 25 questions, and the amount of State Aid a municipality will receive is based on the number of “yes” responses. Ridgewood responded “yes” or “not applicable” to 22 out of 25 questions, resulting in a score of 88%. Ridgewood will not lose any State Aid.

One of the “no” responses involved the introduction and adoption of the budget by the date stipulated by the State. A budget should be introduced in February and adopted in March. This timeframe is difficult to meet in a municipality the size of Ridgewood; however, it is something to strive for going forward.

3. 3. Proposed Traffic Ordinance - South Hillside Place

Ms. Mailander explained that the Village recently resurfaced South Hillside Place. During the work, it was determined that the existing mid-block crosswalk by West Side Presbyterian Church had not been memorialized in the Village Code. Mr. Rutishauser is also recommending changes to the existing regulations, to keep vehicle parking on South Hillside Place away from the mid-block crosswalk, to maximize visibility of children in the crosswalk during school hours. The Police Department has recommended that the ordinance be simplified to remove the “parking prohibited certain hours” reference for a 30-foot section.

There were no objections from the Village Council to memorialize the crosswalk and to accept the recommendations of the Village Engineer and the Police Department.

4. 4. Establish Stop Signs at Gilbert Street and Hope Street

Ms. Mailander explained that residents have expressed concerns about the existing yield signs for traffic control at the intersection of Gilbert Street and Hope Street. Mr. Rutishauser conducted a field examination of the conditions at this location, and noted that the sight lines were not optimal with the existing yield signs. Additionally, Gilbert Street eastbound is downhill, causing a condition that can lead to speeds greater than the posted 25 mph.

Mr. Rutishauser recommended the installation of stop signs to replace the yield signs at the intersection of Gilbert Street and Hope Street. This recommendation was found acceptable to the Village Councilmembers.

5. 5. REVIEW OF OCTOBER 11, 2017 PUBLIC MEETING AGENDA

Ms. Mailander stated that next week there will be two proclamations including National Diabetes Awareness Month and Honor Robert Paoli.

Resolutions for Ridgewood Water include: Title 59 Approval - Laboratory Analysis Services; Award Contract - Laboratory Analysis Services; Title 59 Approval - Service and Repair of Electric Source; Award Contract - Service and Repair of Electric Source; Title 59 Approval - Emergency Generator Installations; Award Contract - Emergency Generator Installations; Title 59 Approval Service and Repair of Potable Water Pumping Facilities ;Award Contract - Service and Repair of Potable Water Pumping Facilities; Authorize Change Order - Professional Services for Glen Tank Rehabilitation; Authorize Execution of Lease - Co-Location of Wireless Telecommunication Antennas - Glen Avenue Tank; Title 59 Approval - Furnishing and Delivering Sodium Hypochlorite Solution; and Award of Contract - Furnishing and Delivering Sodium Hypochlorite Solution.

The following ordinances are scheduled for introduction: Supervisors Salary Ordinance; Non-Union Salary Ordinance; Management Salary Ordinance; Amend Chapter 265 - Vehicles and Traffic - South Hillside Place; and Amend Chapter 265 - Establish Stop Signs at Gilbert Street and Hope Street.

The scheduled public hearings include: Amend Chapter 265 - Vehicles and Traffic - Parking, Prohibition of U-Turns, Prohibition of Stopping and Standing for Municipal Complex Parking Lot and Time Limit Parking on North Maple Avenue; Amend Chapter 265 - Vehicles and Traffic - Maltbie Avenue - 2-Hour Parking; Amend Chapter 265 - Vehicles and Traffic - Establish Bus Stop on Goffle Road; Amend Chapter 265 - Vehicles and Traffic - Designate CBD Employee Parking Spaces - North Walnut Street Parking Lot; and Amend Chapter 145 - Fees - Emergency Medical Services Third-Party Billing Plan Fees.

Resolutions include: Award Contract Under State Contract - Recapped Tires; Award Contract Under State Contract - Ford F250 Pickup Truck with Snowplow - Engineering Division; Award Second Additional Partial Contract - Tree Planting; Award Third Additional Partial Contract - Road Resurfacing and Repair; Award Contract - Odor Control System - Water Pollution Control Facility; Award Professional Services Contract - Grant Writing and Consulting Services; Authorize Submission of 2018 NJDOT Paving Grant Application; Approve Eagle Scout Project - Building of Raptor Nests; Award Professional Services Contract - Professional Engineering Services - Preparation of Plans for Bids - Improvements to HVAC System in Village Hall; Award Contract - Operation and Maintenance of Chestnut Street Dumpster Pad; Accepting Annual Audit Report; Approving Corrective Action Plan; Award Contract - Printing and Distribution of 2018 Village Calendar; Approving Hudson Street Lot as an Area in Need of Redevelopment (tentative); and Opposing the Amendments to OPRA and OPMA.

6. 6. MANAGER’S REPORT

Vigil at Memorial Park - Ms. Mailander announced that in response to events in Las Vegas, Nevada, the Village of Ridgewood will be holding a vigil in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square on Thursday, October 5, 2017 at 7:00 p.m., led by the religious leaders of Ridgewood. This vigil will allow the community to come together in response to the sad and disturbing act of violence in Las Vegas. Vigils are seen as nonviolent ways to raise awareness for a cause and to motivate change, as well as uniting and supporting one another.

Central Valet Service - Ms. Mailander stated that the Central Valet Service Pilot Program will begin on Friday, October 6, 2017 and run through December 30, 2017.

Ridgewood Sidewalk Sale Days - Ms. Mailander announced that Ridgewood Sidewalk Sale Days will take place on October 12, 13, and 14, 2017. There will be great bargains available, including summer-ending, fall-trendings, and holiday-coming merchandise in and outside of the stores.

Haunted Harvest - Ms. Mailander stated that plans are underway for the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce’s Halloween Event scheduled for Saturday, October 28, 2017. Dress in your favorite costume and march in the Halloween Parade and Contest in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square.

Estate Card - Ms. Mailander stated that Ridgewood Officials are proud to introduce the Ridgewood Estate Card, a property tax savings program now available to Ridgewood property owners. The program offers a debit-like card that offers a reward on purchases that is automatically applied to reduce Ridgewood property taxes for the card holder. An even greater level of reward is offered at participating local and on-line merchants. Tax rewards are applied to the third quarter tax bill, annually.

2017 Leaf Pick-up Schedule - Ms. Mailander reported that the 2017 Leaf Pick-up Schedule has been mailed to every household. The process is similar to 2016, in that the leaves are placed in the street at the curb during certain dates, and then the leaf pick-up crews come after those dates to pick up the leaves. All four sections of the Village will have three leaf pick-ups. Once the leaf collection on a particular street is complete, pick-up crews will not return until after the next leaf placement dates. Summonses may be issued to offenders.

Final Voter Register - Ms. Mailander announced that Final Voter Registration Night for the General Election will be held on October 17, 2017 from 4:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in the lobby of the Ridgewood Library.

Walktoberfest - Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that Walktoberfest continues through the month of October. People may sign up at ridgewoodwalks.com for 40 different walks and tours of various locations in the Village, including Village buildings, schools, and non-profits, as well as food walks, jewelry walks, shopping walks, wildscape walks, and houses of worship walks.

Farmers Market - Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that the Farmers Market, located in the NJ Transit Train Station Lot, will continue to be open every Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. through November 19, 2017. Enjoy fresh New Jersey produce, fresh baked goods, and fresh mozzarella cheese.

Repair of Stairs - Ms. Mailander asked the Village Council to consider the authorization of repairs to the stairs from Corsa Terrace to Library Place, and the stairs at the end of the Train Station Pedestrian Tunnel to the Center Platform. Funding is available in the Capital Budget. The cost to repair the Corsa Terrace stairs is $27,200, and the cost to repair the stairs at the end of the Train Station Pedestrian Tunnel is $11,800. The quotes were offered by ConQuest Construction, Inc., out of Westwood, New Jersey. ConQuest Construction previously repaired the stairs on Glenwood Road going down to the Train Station from Upper Ridgewood down to the Ho-Ho-Kus Train Station. The Village has had a good experience with ConQuest Construction. Ms. Mailander will forward the back-up information on this issue to the Village Councilmembers, who can contact her with any questions or concerns. Ms. Mailander noted the importance of getting these stairs repaired before winter. Mayor Knudsen agreed that these stairs are in disrepair and that repairs are necessary for safety.  

Columbus Day - Ms. Mailander announced that all Village offices will be closed on Monday, October 9, 2017 in observance of Columbus Day. There will be no garbage or recycling pick-ups, and the Recycling Center will be closed.

7. 7. COUNCIL REPORTS

Schedler Ad Hoc Committee - Councilman Sedon stated that the Schedler Ad Hoc Committee met recently and continued the discussion on the plans to develop the property. At the recommendation of the Director of Parks and Recreation, Timothy Cronin, the Engineering Division will print out a large map of the property. The committee will then use scaled-sized overlay pieces, representing different proposals for the development of the property, to move around the map, allowing for unlimited design options. Mayor Knudsen questioned whether more than one design proposal will be presented before the Village Council. Councilman Hache explained that the Schedler Ad Hoc committee wants to develop specific options that are each backed by a feasibility analysis, and accompanied by the corresponding development. The Schedler Ad Hoc Committee would like to have these plans in place by the end of 2017, before budget planning season.

Citizens Safety Committee- Councilwoman Walsh explained that, at the September meeting of the Citizens Safety Committee, there was a conversation regarding the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) Grant. Some of the suggested projects for the TAP Grant were sidewalks along West Glen Avenue, Bogert Avenue, Hillcrest Road, and Oak Street; Franklin Avenue traffic calming measures in line with County paving; ADA compliant ramps along Franklin Avenue; and traffic calming measures in other areas. The Citizens Safety Committee also discussed the Ridge School Safety Initiatives, particularly the safety initiatives for drop-off, pick-up, and parking, which included a map for parents to review. The Citizens Safety Committee also discussed the crosswalk at Van Emburgh Avenue. Since Van Emburgh is a County Road, ADA requirements must be met.

Jeanne Johnson spoke to the Citizens Safety Committee concerning “Walktoberfest”, an initiative to foster a pedestrian-friendly community.

The Citizens Safety Committee discussed a traffic accident that occurred at Laurel Road and Kenilworth Road over the summer. This accident was not the result of the regular traffic pattern, but it is still part of the discussion because this area is close to the school.

Ridgewood Arts Council (RAC) - Councilman Walsh reported that RAC met on Tuesday, October 3, 2107. Discussions included how the committee could help with “Walktoberfest”, what the next Artist’s Series Presentation will be, and updating Augmented Reality.

League of Women Voters Presentation- Councilman Hache urged everyone to attend the League of Women Voters presentation entitled “Screenagers”, to be held on October 19, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. at the Ridgewood Public Library. This hour-long film depicts the impact of screen time on teenagers, including the effects on their developing attention span and self-esteem.

Central Valet Service - Councilman Hache referred to a letter that was sent out to all business owners giving an overview of the logistics of the Central Valet Service. The letter indicated the cost, hours, and locations of operation, as well as assurance that feedback from the three-month pilot program would be considered before a determination is made to make it permanent. The letter stated that the goal of the program is to alleviate the traffic congestion caused by patrons searching for parking; to enhance the dining/shopping experience for those patrons; and to bring additional foot traffic into the Central Business District (CBD). The letter stated that merchants can opt-in if they wish to validate the $5.00 cost for the patrons. For the convenience of patrons, a list of those participating businesses will be published. The letter also pointed out that, although the parking spaces that are currently free after 6:00 p.m. will be utilized, the number of available parking spaces will be increased because of vehicle stacking. The valet service locations will be identified by bright signs. The valet service will be particularly valuable during the holiday shopping season, when stores stay open longer. Business owners are encouraged to remain open later during the pilot program.

Councilman Hache pointed out that this proposal, as well as previous actions such as the allocation of parking spaces to benefit businesses, the designation of employee parking at a discounted rate, beautification measures for the CBD, and the Estate Card program, reflect the Village Council’s dedication to ensure the vibrancy and vitality of the CBD.

Central Business District Advisory Committee (CBDAC) - Councilman Hache stated that the next CBDAC meeting will be held on Thursday, October 12, 2017 at 8:30 a.m. in the Garden Room at Village Hall. The focus of this meeting will be the CBD website. There will be a presentation of an app-based system for smart phones, which includes a calendar of events.

Stickball Tournament for the Homeless - Councilman Hache reminded everyone that the Stickball Tournament for the Homeless will take place on Saturday, October 7, 2017. Registration begins 9:30 a.m., behind the Knights of Columbus Hall. The event begins at 10:00 a.m. There will be teams of 4 and the cost is $25 per person. Tee shirts will be handed out. This event will benefit the Homeless Retreat Ministry for men and women who are battling alcoholism and drug abuse. Food will be available.

Mayor’s Wellness Campaign and Good Life Ridgewood - Mayor Knudsen reported that the 3^rd Annual Wellness Festival and Celebration was held on Sunday, October 1, 2017 at Memorial Park at Van Neste Square. Performances included yoga in the park, Irish step dancers, Taekwondo demonstrations, and musical groups. Vendors offered information on wellness as it relates to yoga, orthopedics, health care, personal grooming, massage therapy, holistic nutrition, regenerative healing, exercise, skin care, and psychology. Mayor Knudsen thanked everyone who worked at this event, including members of the Village Staff. Mayor Knudsen also acknowledged Orchard School for their “Choose to be Nice” table, where people could paint “kindness rocks”. After this event, Mayor Knudsen and Councilman Hache attended the Bamboo House’s 30-year anniversary celebration. Mayor Knudsen wished the Bamboo House continued success.

Special Project Task Force - Mayor Knudsen reported that the Special Project Task Force met on Monday, October 2, 2017. The committee is continuing their indepth analysis of the Village’s energy programs. Another assignment for the Special Project Task Force will be to take the multitude of CBD traffic studies done over the years and conduct a comparative analysis to determine the studies’ level of accuracy and appropriateness. Village Traffic Consultant, John Jahr, has offered to meet with this committee.

Mayor Knudsen announced that she and Councilman Sedon had been interviewed by CBS News Correspondent, Meg Baker concerning the Central Valet Pilot Program. Mayor Knudsen thanked Ms. Baker for her great reporting and for always taking such an interest in the Village of Ridgewood.

Blue Star Families Dinner - Mayor Knudsen reminded everyone that the Blue Star Families Dinner will be held on Friday, October 6, 2017 at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church. Mayor Knudsen and Councilmembers will be serving food.

Ridgewood Access Network - Mayor Knudsen urged everyone to attend Access Ridgewood Weekend scheduled for Friday, October 13, 2017 through Sunday, October 15, 2017. The weekend will include staying healthy events; Family Fun with Marsha Matthews and Jester Jim; a family concert; a day in the life of a therapy dog; live music; dancing; and a fashion show. The Ridgewood Soccer Association and the Ridgewood High School Girls Soccer Team will play soccer against the Ridgewood Police and Ridgewood Fire Department. There will be “Touch-a-Truck” event with police cars and fire trucks. The weekend will wrap-up with the annual interfaith service on Sunday evening at 7:00 p.m. at Friends to Friends Community Church on Bart Street. Everyone is welcome to attend this event, which raises awareness of the Special Needs Community.

Mayor Knudsen reported that Maureen Barrett, the owner of Woofgang Bakery and Grooming, will be present at the October 11, 2017 public meeting for a formal welcome from the Village Council.

Mayor Knudsen spoke about a Letter to the Editor of North Jersey Media, from a fellow Village Councilmember, that contained some incorrect statements. Mayor Knudsen described these statements, as follows:

• Comment: In 2015, a nonbinding referendum for a garage on Hudson Street was voted 2:1 in favor of building the garage and so why can’t Village Council move forward on this.
• Correction: On June 21, 2016 there was a binding referendum that was just the opposite 2:1, and it was a defeat for the bond ordinance.
• Comment: In early February, a sub-committee was formed to figure out how best to move forward with building a garage. The Mayor and one other Village Councilmember volunteered quickly for the committee preventing other Village Councilmembers from serving.
• Correction: To Mayor Knudsen’s knowledge, after reviewing the minutes and watching the meeting video, a garage committee was never formed.
• Comment: The Mayor needs to be taken off the garage sub-committee and be replaced by a Village Councilmember who wants to build the garage. Why she is on it is a mystery to me. She has never come out publicly in support of the Hudson Street garage, yet a bond ordinance for $11.5 Million is introduced on March 2, 2016; unanimously adopted on March 23^rd, including my affirmative vote. The bond ordinance became effective on April 16, 2016. I have the signed copy attested to by Heather Mailander, and that public meeting vote I added my “yes” vote with the caveat that the garage was still too big and needed further attention to the structure itself to produce the size and scope of it. The information coming out of a sub-committee has been nonexistent.
• Correction: The garage sub-committee never existed.

Mayor Knudsen stated that the Village Councilmember who wrote the letter signed two petitions to stop the parking garage. On one petition, every member of the Village Councilmember’s family signed it. This Village Councilmember was also a circulator, as shown on the notarized copy.

Mayor Knudsen summed up her comments stating that there was no reality to this letter. She made her comments this evening to ensure that proper and accurate information goes out to the public.

8. 8. PUBLIC COMMENTS

Tony Damiano, 274 South Broad Street, addressed the Estate Card. He stated that, unfortunately, the Ridgewood Guild Board of Directors will not endorse the Estate Card. The members were concerned that the Estate Card created a conflict of interest with the Guild Card and the Chamber of Commerce’s Rewards Card, as well as other businesses that provide additional discounts. The members also objected to on-line businesses being a part of the Estate Card program, and that it was not exclusive to Ridgewood businesses. Mr. Damiano pointed out that in order for a resident to save $1,000 annually on their property taxes, they would have to spend $1,600 per month. Currently, only 19 businesses have signed-up to participate in the Estate Card Program. Mr. Damiano said his business, Mango Jam, has signed-up to participate in the Estate Card Program. Mr. Damiano felt that a better job could have been done to advise the business community about this program. When the representative of the Estate Card went door-to-door soliciting, business owners were unaware of the program.

Councilman Hache stated that the Estate Card and Central Valet were discussed at Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce meetings. Councilman Hache pointed out that Mr. Damiano’s statement that a resident would have to spend $1,600 per month to save $1,000 annually on their property taxes, was based on assuming a 5% tax reward. Currently, 5% is the lowest reward that is offered by the 19 participating businesses. The range is 5% to 30%, with most being in the 10% range, which reduces the amount needed to spend per month to approximately $800 in order to have a $1,000 property tax savings.

Mayor Knudsen pointed out that there are Chamber of Commerce members on CBDAC, as well, so, presumably, this information gets filtered out into the business community.

Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, asked to see the list of the concerns the League of Municipalities has raised regarding the proposed legislative changes to OPMA and OPRA. Mayor Knudsen stated that these recommendations will be put on the Village website. Mr. Rogers pointed out that these concerns are also on the League’s website.

Ms. Loving understood that Schedler Park was going to be a passive park with no fields. She questioned why a field is being considered.

Ms. Loving stated that she hoped the Central Valet Pilot Program will work out, as she totally supports anything that would avoid having to construct a parking garage. Ms. Loving objected to taking prime parking spaces in the business district away to accommodate Central Valet. She suggested using private lots and the lot at Graydon Pool, instead.

Ms. Loving spoke of the importance of stores in the CBD staying open late on Friday and Saturday nights, so people can go to dinner and then go shopping.

Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that he hopes the Central Valet Pilot Program works out; however, he doesn’t want to see taxpayers paying for it.  

Mr. Loving recalled recommendations made by Ridgewood Police Sergeant, Jay Chuck and Officer Raymond Tarino several months ago to reduce the length of the bike path in Garber Square. Mr. Loving questioned why this has not yet been done.

Mr. Loving recalled a discussion regarding the lighting on the path leading from the Plaza up to Maple Avenue being inadequate at night. He questioned why no additional lighting has been added yet.

Councilman Hache explained that the cash exchange between the businesses and the patrons involving the validation of the Central Valet charge will be done electronically. The valet company will control the cash flow using tickets.

Councilman Hache noted that the process involving the Schedler Property was fair and transparent, and considered all the needs of the different stakeholders within the community. The neighborhood where Schedler Park is located currently does not have a park, walking trails or athletic fields. The potential impact involving safety and the traffic, that certain types of athletic fields bring, is being carefully considered in this process. The Schedler Ad Hoc Committee is trying to be very balanced in coming up with uses that can help alleviate the need for fields.

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

10. 10. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION

Deputy Village Clerk Donna Jackson read Resolution #17-293 to go into Closed Session as follows:

11. 11. ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Sedon, seconded by Councilwoman Walsh, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Work Session was adjourned at 9:43 p.m.

_____________________________

                                                                                                                     Susan Knudsen      

                                                                                                                           Mayor

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            Donna M. Jackson

          Deputy Village Clerk