20180110 - Village Council Work Session

A 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, RIDGEWOD, NEW JERSEY ON JANUARY 10, 2018 AT 7:30 P.M.

 

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

Mayor Knudsen called the meeting to order at 7:33 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. At roll call the following were present: Councilman Hache, Deputy Mayor Sedon, Councilwoman Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen. Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney; and Donna M. Jackson, Deputy Village Clerk. Councilman Voigt was absent.

Mayor Knudsen led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag as well as a Moment of Silence to honor the men and women serving our Nation and our first responders.

Mayor Knudsen stated that before moving on to Public Comments, Sara Chan would be speaking for a few minutes about her new business, Physical Therapy.

She has just opened a physical therapy practice on Goffle Road in October. She specializes in adult orthopedics, functional manual therapy, women’s health, vestibular rehabilitation, female and male pelvic floor rehabilitation. She looks forward to serving the Ridgewood community. The address for her business is 505 Goffle Road, Ridgewood.

1. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

Rurik Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, introduced himself. He spoke of the movie Casablanca, and a line referencing shock that there was gambling in the back. He compared this to the Mayor being stunned about the ParkMobile contract ringing just as true, calling it an insult to the intelligence of the Ridgewood Community. Thanks to the excellent reporting by Nicholas Katzban and the Ridgewood News it is clear that they were fully aware of the ParkMobile contract. To blame the shortfalls on parking revenue on ParkMobile, one program that has worked well for the Village, is a good example of dishonesty. He then referenced minutes from the Village Council meeting from March 11, 2015 which indicate an in-depth discussion regarding ParkMobile where both Mayor Knudsen and Deputy Mayor Sedon were involved and both voted in favor. Mr. Halaby asks that the Village CFO hire an outsider to analyze the parking revenue. He imagines many things contributing to the current situation including the game that has been played with the current allocation of parking spaces. He recalled a previous discussion regarding this issue.

Mr. Halaby, also, then brought up another issue, stating that they just discovered that the Mayors home is used to sell tires. He referenced a manta.com printout that listed Tires To You L.L.C. with an address of 120 Circle Avenue, Ridgewood. Mr. Halaby stated that he has nothing against someone using their home to do an honest piece of business, but he is concerned about the fire hazard caused by the tires. He asked whether the Fire Department was aware of this, and what safeguards are being taken. Mr. Halaby suggested the Village Manager should send the Fire Chief to investigate.

Mayor Knudsen then responded to Mr. Halaby’s concerns, stating that she was not selling tires from their home. She thanked Mr. Halaby and spoke about the ParkMobile contract and the Council Meeting he referenced from March 11, 2015 which referred to an ordinance to apply a 35-cent user fee which was unanimously approved. At the time there was also further discussion about a charge percentage and a transaction fee, which was described as temporary until the Square card was synchronized with the ParkMobile system, however Mayor Knudsen would not consider a signed 3-year contract to be temporary.

Marcia Ringel, 250 Ferris Place, was present on behalf of the Preserve Graydon Coalition. She referenced The Mamas & the Papas and a song ‘Dream a Little Dream of Me.’ She is aware that tonight there will probably be a discussion as to what will happen to that Sycamore tree at Graydon. She was hopeful that they could be creative if the tree could not be saved.

Ms. Ringel spoke of a fair that she attended 4-5 years ago at the Arboretum in Glen Rock where there was someone selling bowls and other things he had made from reclaimed wood, called found wood. His name was Bob Kahn and he called his business ‘Concept in Wood.’ She spoke with him today and asked whether it was feasible to use wood from the Sycamore tree at Graydon. Ms. Ringel felt it would be a good idea to invite him to view the wood, and to make it available to him to make something out of that could conceivably be sold from the website, with proceeds going to Mr. Kahn, but he agreed that he would give some of it back, and then maybe it could be donated for a replacement tree or something of that nature. She stated that the Preserve Graydon Coalition has learned that people like to buy something and know that they are giving back.

Ms. Ringel also stated that knowing that there was a report, she submitted an OPRA request for that report on Sunday night, January 7, 2018, for receipt on Monday morning, January 8, 2018. She was told that she was not going to be allowed to see it because the Council had not yet discussed the issue.

Beth Abbott, 828 Morningside Road, was joined by Sheila Brogan, residing at 302 Kensington Drive. They are co-chairs of Age Friendly Ridgewood, a non-profit collaboration of Ridgewood citizens and organizations working for the past 2 years at making Ridgewood aware of the needs of those ages 55 and older and creating projects aimed at addressing those needs. Because of grant funding from the Henry and Marilyn Taub Foundation and additional funding from the New Jersey Department of Transportation, they were able to conduct a Senior Walkability Study last June which has been respectfully submitted to the Council.

During that Study professionals from NJDOT, WSP, and civic guide collaboratives facilitated a workshop presenting information on senior mobility, conducted and led a field walk to observe and experience senior mobility issues along Maple Avenue, the CBD, and the train station, and finished the day brainstorming to discuss what was observed and solicit ideas on improving condition.

Ms. Abbott stated that Deputy Mayor Sedon attended along with representatives from the Village’s Engineering and Police Departments. Charlie DiMarco, chair of the Citizens Safety Committee, Deanna Schablik, Bridgette Bogart, and older residents from the Village Share Houses and Ridgecrest. The result is a professional report with many excellent suggestions about how we can make Ridgewood more walkable and safe for all Village Residents, not just seniors.

Ms. Abbott stated that during the Walkability Study they were made aware that during the summer some Village crossing guards would use that time to audit some of the Village sidewalks for problems. Now that the crossing guards are outsourced, Ms. Abbott stated that they were worried this sort of audit may not happen routinely, so a group of eight (8) residents volunteered their time this November to walk the sidewalks in the Central Business District. They were looking for sidewalks that posed tripping hazards because of cracks or breaks based on the measurement parameters provided to the group by Chris Rutishauser.

Age Friendly Ridgewood is grateful for the attention that Chris Rutishauser has paid to the issues they have raised. They view the Walkability Study and Sidewalk Audit as a way to support Chris’s work knowing how much he and the Department have on their plates. They also appreciate the enthusiasm shown by the Citizens Safety Committee, who spent their December meeting discussing and reviewing the study and the audit. The Citizens Safety Committee support Age Friendly Ridgewood by asking the Village to review the materials, budget for improvements, and continue the work the Village has already begun to make Ridgewood a safe and walkable community.

Ms. Abbott stated that the sidewalk audit has been emailed to the Council in PDF format recently. She stated that one very troubling area is the intersection of Franklin and Broad, there curb cuts are missing, and the street crossing is long. The sidewalks along Franklin on the South side are also dangerous. She thanked the Council for their time and attention to this matter and stated that they are available to discuss this further at the Council’s convenience.

Mayor Knudsen asked whether Ms. Abbott would like to mention their website, and asked whether the information that was shared with the Council would be posted on their website as well. Ms. Abbott stated that the website is AgeFriendlyRidgewood.org and they also have a Facebook page, Age Friendly Ridgewood.

Bill McCandless, 71 Ridge Road, stated that the Village taxpayers face a new reality this year, one that the fiscal state of the Village has not faced before. He stated that the case against the garage is strong; it is powered by facts that need to be considered before plunging the taxpayers deeper into debt and creating more congestion on our already overcrowded and overstressed roads. He stated that each recent study done on the garage proposal shows that there is more than enough parking capacity in the CBD and what we have is not utilized. He feels that the garage is a net loss, and that traffic in and around the CBD will be worse with the addition. Mr. McCandless feels there is no logical argument for a garage, and that the only thing it will add is taxpayer debt, higher fees for every shopper and diner, and more congestion across an already congested set of intersections. He sees no compelling case and urged the Village to prepare for the driverless future.

Mayor Knudsen paused here and asked everyone to wish Councilwoman Walsh a very Happy Birthday.

1. DISCUSSION

1. Ridgewood Water

1. Bond Ordinance – Carr GAC Treatment System

Ms. Mailander explained that construction cost estimates were provided by Arcadis U.S. Inc., and this is a Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) Treatment System to remove perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) in the well water. It will consist of four (4) sealed vessels containing Granular Activated Carbon which will filter the water. The Carr facility currently has a maximum output of 1,000 gallons per minute or 1.44 million gallons per day. The cost to replace this volume with purchase water is estimated at $5000 per day or $1.8 million per year. Therefore, the Bond Ordinance at $3.4 million as a total ordinance would actually be $2.75 million because of the bonding requirements, so this is something that is hoped to be introduced in January so it can go out to bid in February.

The Drinking Water Quality Institute has new standards as well as Governor Christie proposed new standards as well. Ms. Mailander stated that this treatment is necessary.

1. Award of Professional Services Contract – Public Policy Consultant

 

Ms. Mailander stated that the Village has a proposal from Morford Drulis to provide professional services to the Village of Ridgewood for a Public Policy Consultant. They will help Ridgewood Water and the Village of Ridgewood to better understand the changing public policy forces in Trenton and Washington as it related to New Jersey’s water infrastructure. This will give Ridgewood Water the opportunity to have input on new legislation and to prepare in advance of any new regulation affecting the industry.

Mayor Knudsen, Ms. Mailander, and Mr. Richard Calbi, Jr., met with Mr. Michael Drulis, the contract would be for four (4) months, in an amount not to exceed $13,600, and this would be to see what benefits this could provide the Village. The hope is that Ridgewood Water would become more involved and have a seat at the table when legislation is being adopted and to give input and be a key player in terms of a smaller water system.

Mayor Knudsen stated that she felt that this was one of the best undertakings that the Village could engage in. It was an opportunity to understand what was going on in Trenton, the kind of conversations at a very early stage, and have significant input into how that may or may not influence our own water utility.

Richard Calibri, Jr. stated that Ridgewood Water was unique in that they serve more than one municipality, the majority of smaller utilities just serve their local constituents, when compared with all municipalities and their water providers throughout the state.

Mayor Knudsen stated that this is important because it would give the Village information on what is happening as it is happening as opposed to finding out after the fact and scrambling.

Mr. Calibri stated that this all comes out of two acts that Ridgewood Water had no input in at all, the Water Quality Accountability Act and then the new contaminant levels from the Bond Ordinance spoken about previously. Mr. Calibri has already been able to attend a Joint Legislative Committee meeting in Trenton on water infrastructure and was able to meet some key players and give them a feel for what Ridgewood Water does and what makes them different.

1. Award of Professional Services Contract – Change Order – Booster/Transfer Station Improvements

Ms. Mailander stated that this contract was awarded in 2016 for professional services. At this time, an additional $11,971.45 is required to complete work beyond the original professional engineering services contract scope. This work consists mainly of services for obtaining approvals from Midland Park that were not originally anticipated which resulted in re-design of one of the facilities.

Change Order #1 will be awarded to the original professional services award contract holder which is D.J. Egarian & Associates, Inc. in Fairfield, New Jersey, and is budgeted for in the Ridgewood Water Capital Improvement Budget.

1. Award State Contract – Chlorine Analyzers and SuppliesMs. Mailander stated that the Village of Ridgewood and Ridgewood Water anticipates exceeding statutory limit of $17,500 for chlorine analyzers and supplies and therefore is in need of a Council resolution to continue purchasing these items. Funding is accounted for in the Water Department operating budget.
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4. Bid Rejection – Cedar Hill Rehabilitation and Award Contract – Cedar Hill Rehabilitation

Ms. Mailander stated that Cedar Hill Reservoir Rehabilitation had a Bid Report and Tabulation with recommendations by D.J. Egarian & Associates, Inc. They bid for the rehabilitation work and an alternate bid for coating the interior of the reservoir dome.

Ms. Mailander stated that in getting the proposals back, the recommendation is to award only the base bid with allowance, as the alternate bid proposal for the interior dome coating exceeded the engineer’s estimate.

For the base bid + allowance, the low bidder is Fred Devens Construction with a cost proposal of $303,000.00. Based on prior negative experience on a current Ridgewood Water project, which is the Water Main Relocations at Stream Crossings, which is still being worked on, Ridgewood Water is requesting that this bid be rejected.

The second low bidder, having a cost proposal of $324,800.00, was DN Tanks, Inc. of Wakefield, Massachusetts. D.J. Egarian & Associates, Inc. and Mr. Richard Calbi, Jr. are recommending the award of this project to DN Tanks, Inc. Ms. Mailander stated that this is required under the US EPA Administrative Order, and that this should be awarded by January 15, 2018; an informal extension has been granted as the meeting isn’t until January 17, 2018. This would allow time for the work to be completed by July 15, 2018, however based on the coming high demand season the tank will need to be back in service by April 15, 2018.

Ms. Mailander stated that D.J. Egarian & Associates, Inc. is the Engineer of Record for the project, they prepared the construction documents, reviewed all bids and will assist Ridgewood Water with administering the construction phase of the project. Funding has been accounted for in the Ridgewood Water Capital Budget.

Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that it appeared that three of the bidders misinterpreted the bid sheets entirely, so in fact we don’t know how the bids could have come in. He asked whether it would be better to go back and bid again. Mr. Calbi stated that on the basis of where those alternate items were recalculated, it exceeded what the estimates would have been and he feels that it would be beneficial at this time to proceed with the base bid and there is an alternate allowance in there in case any fractures are found in the dome. A delay would cause the tank project to be pushed into next season and would delay every tank project thereafter as well, so Mr. Calbi doesn’t feel it would be reasonable at this time to re-bid.

Mayor Knudsen asked Mr. Calbi if he would have any idea as to how three of the bidders would have misinterpreted. He stated that they are given the opportunity to ask questions, however none were asked.

1. Bid Rejection – 2018 Well Improvements

 

Ms. Mailander stated this bid rejection was for the bid received from A.C. Schultes, Inc. since it exceeded the consulting engineers cost estimate by almost double. Mr. Calbi believes that part of the reason for this was that perhaps they were not given enough time to prepare the bid. Ms. Mailander stated that he then spoke with others who had picked up the document and didn’t bid, and they indicated that they would have liked more time. This will be put out to bid again with more time.

1. Parking

 

1. Discussion of Extension of Deadline for RFPs for Hudson Street Parking Garage

 

Ms. Mailander stated that the original bid deadline for the RFPs was December, however several of the bidders asked for an extension due to the holiday’s, and that was deemed reasonable. The deadline was extended to January 19, 2018. There is now a request from one of the bidders to extend it again to February 9, 2018, they feel that this would give them the opportunity to provide a complete package for the Village that would meet all of the requirements within the RFP.

Ms. Mailander asked the Council for their opinion. Mayor Knudsen then asked how many bid packets were picked up, to which Ms. Mailander referred to Mr. Rutishauser. He confirmed her estimates that there are approximately 23 plant holders, of which 5-6 are bid services. They cannot be sure how many bidders actually have bid documents because they did have it available online. However prospective bidders sometimes will let the Village know that they are interested in becoming a plant holder, others will not go through that effort. Mr. Rutishauser stated that if the Council wishes to grant that time extension request they will put out an addendum and try to notify all of the bidders electronically, as well as posting on the website.

Mayor Knudsen then asked when to expect the Walker Study, to which Ms. Mailander stated it will be discussed January 31, 2018, at the Work Session.

Deputy Mayor Sedon asked if there was any way to anticipate how many bids would come back. Mr. Rutishauser stated that they have not had any responses yet, however they have had a number of email inquiries asking questions, with the bulk of them being able to be answered without requiring an addendum. He feels there are at least 3-4 bidders that are very interested, and is anticipating 4-6 responses.

Councilman Hache stated that he didn’t feel the extension should be granted as everyone has had ample time. Deputy Mayor Sedon agreed with this, as did Councilwoman Walsh. Mayor Knudsen stated that she was unsure, as she didn’t want to miss out on a better product, lower price, or better build, and we don’t know how many will be returned, however, they did have ample opportunity, so the Village should keep moving forward and not do the extension. Mr. Rutishauser stated he will relay this to the prospective bidder who made the inquiry the following day.

Ms. Mailander stated that there may have been some misunderstanding with the ParkMobile contract, the Village will be going out to RFP, however, ParkMobile is still in effect until February 28, 2018. The new contract will not start until March 1, 2018 and ParkMobile could certainly submit an RFP if they wish to do so. They are not prohibited from doing so, and the Village could decide to go with them again.

1. Budget

 

1. Award of Second Year of Contract – Maintenance of Irrigation Systems and Water Fountains

 

Ms. Mailander stated that last year the bid was awarded to Tanz, Inc. based out of River Edge, and this is the second year of a two-year contract. The Village had a positive experience with them and is willing to continue.

Councilman Hache asked how may bids were received for this last year, Ms. Mailander was unsure.

 

1. Amendment to Contract Previously Awarded – Two Police Vehicles

 

Ms. Mailander stated that this is for an amendment to a contract previously awarded for two police vehicles. A state contract to Winner Ford was awarded for emergency equipment for two (2) new police vehicles in September 2017. Actually, the name of the company is Emergency Accessories Installation, and they are the State Contract vendor for the emergency equipment. This equipment has already been purchased, however it was not able to be outfitted because it was to the wrong vendor; this is to correct that error.  

1. Bond Ordinance – Paving

 

Ms. Mailander stated that this was a Capital Paving Budget Request for a bond ordinance for $1,970,000 towards paving, which is similar to last year. The total bond ordinance will come to $2,050,000. This will include minor drainage repairs (Monte Vista storm drain), curb work, and the resurfacing of North Pleasant Avenue. The Village of Ridgewood did receive a NJDOT Municipal Aid grant in the amount of $165,627.00 for the North Pleasant repaving. They are still working on the selection of the streets and will look again after the winter is over to see if any new street should be added.

Ms. Mailander stated that she would like this bond ordinance to be introduced next week, so it could be ready for February and bids could go out and the Village could award possibly in March or April and they could get a jump on the paving. Last year the Village did over $2,000,000 in paving.

1. Award of Bergen County Cooperative Purchasing Program – Rock Salt

 

Ms. Mailander stated that the purchase of rock salt would be through the Bergen County Cooperative Purchasing Program at the price of $56.11 per ton, which is the best price that the Village can get.

Mayor Knudsen asked if the treated rock salt is different from the untreated rock salt. Mr. Richard Calbi stated that the Village buys the untreated rock salt and then treats the salt themselves as needed, to be more cost effective.

1. Award of Professional Engineering Services – Phase I Security Improvements at Village Hall

 

Ms. Mailander stated that a contract was awarded to Secure Watch 24 in December 2017 under a professional services agreement. This is actually a National Cooperative Purchasing Alliance Contract #12-06. For $143,922.00, Secure Watch 24 of Moonachie, New Jersey, will be the vendor however, instead of being a professional service, it is actually under a cooperative purchasing program.

Mayor Knudsen confirmed that the first document that was provided just had a typo, and Ms. Mailander verified that this was correct.

1. Award Contract – Document Management System

Ms. Mailander stated that this was for awarding the contract for General Code Laserfiche Avante Software package. This would provide a stable software package that meets the state requirements for OPRA and digital scanned media. This is to move ahead on a project that would provide paperless packets for council meetings and digital scanned documents throughout departments to help in streamlining research time and information gathering in the future, which is important for OPRA. The total amount of the software package with one (1) year support is $41,148.50, and it is budgeted for.

Mayor Knudsen stated that she was excited about this; saving time and staff resources as well as trees.

1. Policy

 

1. Approve Mutual Aid Plan and Rapid Deployment Force

 

Ms. Mailander stated that Councilman Voigt wished to have input; it will be put back on the agenda for January 31, 2018. This is an annual Resolution that the Village of Ridgewood passes and it is through the Bergen County Police Chiefs Association. It allows police officers from all 70 municipalities in Bergen County to be part of this. They have two (2) platoons and in the case of a true emergency they are available to help.

1. Discuss Compliance with Federal Civil Rights Requirements

 

Ms. Mailander stated that this is a new requirement with submitting the local budget through the Division of Local Government Services. This was signed into law by Governor Christie on August 7, 2017. The requirement is to ensure that the Village of Ridgewood’s hiring practices comply with the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission’s Enforcement Guidance. EEOC’s Enforcement Guidance discusses how an employer’s use of criminal history records to select, promote, and retain employees may in some instance violate Title VII’s prohibition against employment discrimination, and may also become disparate treatment.

Ms. Mailander stated that discrimination on the basis of disparate treatment may occur when an employer treats criminal history information differently for different applicants or employees based on their race or national origin. Disparate impact-based discrimination may occur when an employer’s neutral policy, in other words excluding all applicants from employment based on certain criminal conduct, may disproportionately impact some individuals protected under Title VII and the policy is not job related and consistent with business necessity.

Ms. Mailander stated that the Village Council is aware of this guidance document, and the Council agrees that the Village does not discriminate and that employment practices are in line with this. The Council will have to sign an Affidavit that they understand, and this will be submitted with the Budget.

1. Discuss Donations to Parks and Recreation Department – Community Center & Landscape Elements

 

Ms. Mailander stated that the Community Center Foundation would like to gift to the Village of Ridgewood various items that they have bought through the Foundation, including sofas, end tables, coffee tables, media console, curtains, rugs, chairs, a lectern, and the painting of the youth lounge. In addition, there are contributions that have been made by individuals or by organizations, including a mini refrigerator, a baby grand piano, a player piano, and a CD Juke Box.

 

Ms. Mailander stated that with the approval of this Resolution the Village Council acknowledges and accepts all of these items, whether it be from the Community Center Foundation or the individuals or groups that have donated them. In addition, the Village has been offered by Julie Tung, the widow of Ed Schwartz (Eco Ed), who was an important member of the Ridgewood Environmental Advisory Committee, where he served as Chairman, donations that have been professionally appraised. These items include the ornate metal gazebo, iron gates, and a sandstone rock pile. Ms. Tung has sold the E. Glen Avenue property and would like to donate these items and have them removed before the end of January. These are very generous donations, if the Council approves a Resolution will be added to the upcoming Public Meeting.

Mayor Knudsen asked if the Village would be making the arrangements for removal, which Ms. Mailander stated they would, and that the Village Council would be involved in the selection of a location for the gazebo following the Parks and Recreation staff coming up with possibilities.

 

1. Approve Continued Participation in Childhood Lead Exposure Prevention Project

 

Ms. Mailander announced that the State of New Jersey has recently lowered the action level for lead poisoning investigation which has caused an increase in lead investigation cases. The Bergen County Department of Health Services has received a grant from the state which enables the County to provide lead poisoning services to all 70 municipalities within the county. This agreement is valid for six (6) months, through June 30, 2018. If the grantee is successful in meeting the goals of the grant requirements, it will likely continue.

Ms. Mailander stated that the County has drafted a Memorandum of Understanding Agreement for all Bergen County Towns. They ask that it be signed by January 31, 2018. The requirements for Ridgewood is to continue to provide blood lead testing services at Child Health Clinics as well as assist with lead inspections if needed. Ms. Mailander said that Dawn Cetrulo, the Director of the Village Health Department, does have the lead certification.

There is also a Memorandum of Understanding with the Paterson Health Department, for nursing services only, for lead cases which was originally created when under the jurisdiction of Fair Lawn’s Health Officer. The Village will continue this agreement with Paterson as a requirement to close out the existing lead cases we are already managing.

Ms. Mailander said that today she was speaking with Dawn Cetrulo who stated that her department has two new lead cases based on this new law because of the lower levels that are now being detected.

1. Encroachment – Enclosure for Restaurant Entrance

Ms. Mailander stated that this is for an enclosure for the Steel Wheel Tavern, similar to those seen in New York City during the winter months. The SPEC Committee from the Planning Board told the restaurant that they should go to the Council.

Mayor Knudsen stated that the Site Plan Exemption Committee, which is a committee of the Planning Board, sent it over to the Council as an encroachment item. The canvas vestibule is as shown in the images provided to the Council.

Ms. Mailander said that the concern is that this could set a precedent, where one restaurant may have enough sidewalk area to provide for this vestibule, however, others may not. Matthew Rogers, the Village Attorney, stated that this usually is the decision of the Planning Board to decide whether or not an encroachment should be granted because this is usually an amendment to a site plan. Mr. Rogers stated that the agreement thereafter is done with the Village to enter into the agreement with that property owner.   So the Council doesn’t have the authority to grant or deny this, however, they can make a recommendation back to the Planning Board.

Councilwoman Walsh stated that this issue never actually went before the Planning Board, she is on SPEC, however was unable to attend that particular meeting being discussed, she agrees that this should go before the Planning Board first. She mentioned that another issue may be the type of encroachment, that this may require a review at the Historic Preservation Committee, as well.

1. Continuation of Suspension of Ordinance for Certain Illuminated Signs

 

Ms. Mailander stated that the Planning Board sub-committee has not yet provided their report, so the hearing will have to be continued in February.

Ms. Mailander stated that the enforcement was only relaxed through December 31, 2017, and asked Mr. Rogers if the Council should have another resolution to continue it until such time as the Council makes a decision, Mr. Rogers agreed.

Ms. Mailander mentioned that she did not want a situation where a current business received a ticket from the Village’s Code Enforcement Officer because December 31, 2017 has come and gone at there was no extension granted. Councilwoman Walsh stated that this all began because there were two summonses issued, and she anticipated that the Planning Board will have a response by February, so she agrees the date should be extended until June 1, 2018.

1. Municipal Charitable Deductions

 

Ms. Mailander stated that this was for Municipal charitable deductions and invited Mr. Robert Rooney, Village CFO, to speak. This is due to a change in the tax code and possibilities in how we might help our residents going forward.

Mr. Rooney stated that Representative Josh Gottheimer and Governor-Elect Phil Murphy have proposed the establishment of a charitable trust by each municipality in the State of New Jersey. This would allow taxpayers to declare how they want their money put into trust when they go to pay their taxes. If the trust is established and they would like all their taxes placed in the trust, conceptually they would be allowed to take that as a charitable deduction on their Federal tax return. There are complexities that go with this, one being that the Federal Government would have to approve it, and two being that the State of New Jersey approve the methodologies and how that transaction would occur. Mr. Rooney stated that it is a concept, that if approved, the Village of Ridgewood would be in support of this method to allow its residents to get the deduction which now they don’t have based upon the new Federal Tax law. Mr. Rooney stated that he was looking for the Council to discuss whether they would be in favor of it, assuming all the logistics are in place to allow it to occur.

Mayor Knudsen stated that late Friday, January 5, 2018, she participated in a conference call with the Congressman and then he provided additional follow-up information. According to the provided information, that charitable donation could be made to a specific tax, for example school tax, however they would still be obligated to their actual property tax bill. So they couldn’t just say they are going to take 100% of their property tax bill and put it towards school and then school gets all of that money, they still have an obligation to pay that property tax. So they could take 100% of it but the only piece of it that would be applied to their property tax bill would be how much they owed to the school property tax.

Mayor Knudsen stated that the reason why this was placed on the agenda was in the event that this does happen at some point, the Village would like to have in place some structure to accept payments, and she understands that this must be done by Ordinance.

Mr. Rooney then stated that every municipality has the authority to present real estate taxes and the obligation for that placed on residents and property owners is by legislative action. The Village doesn’t have any authority to decide how it’s done or where it’s done. Everything has to be handled through the state first, and in this case because we are talking about a charitable deduction there probably has to be some federal legislation as well.

Mr. Rooney stated that he wanted to know if everyone on the Council was in favor of looking at this with a lot of attention to make sure that the Village does the right thing for the residents and the taxpayers in Ridgewood, and that the Village follows this issue so that it can properly place itself in line so that when/if this legislation does come about people could then go right to it and utilize it because this would be for 2018 property taxes.

Mayor Knudsen asked if there were any questions, to which Councilman Hache stated that he applauded the effort and hoped that it passes, and having the readiness to deal with it at the time is important. He stated that this goes beyond 2018; in the next couple of years the Village will see a strain on its own budget due to the expectation that property taxes will go down somewhere in the neighborhood of 10%, so anything the Village can do now to mitigate the impact of that is wise.

Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that he was all for it, he didn’t know if it was going to pass the Federal Government and the IRS or courts, but if it does pass he would be supportive because with property taxes capped at $10,000 it leaves a lot of people not being able to deduct a large majority of their property taxes, so if it does pass all of these hurdles it should be offered to residents as an option.

Mayor Knudsen stated that the Village should aggressively pursue it just in case. Councilwoman Walsh then stated that she had many questions about it. She felt that the Council were not tax adviser and therefore she felt that they should not be giving tax advice to anyone; they should talk to their tax advisors to see how they are going to be impacted.

Councilwoman Walsh stated that with the ability to prepay taxes, only about 25% of the individuals or properties paid the pre-tax. That could mean that they didn’t have the ability, for instance those who pay through an escrow account. She stated that the job of the Village of Ridgewood is just to collect the taxes, it is not their job to determine how people are paying their taxes. She feels that if property values do decrease then that will have an additional impact on individual’s personal taxes again because they are going to have different write-offs on their income tax return. Councilwoman Walsh stated that another major concern she has was with the word charity, because the Village is a municipality not a charity, and she felt using such a term was disingenuous. She felt that if we could structure our taxes in such a way to have a benefit to the taxpayers would be one thing, but to set it up as a loophole is not smart.

Mr. Rooney replied stating that regarding the setup and structure, that would all be handled by the state and federal government. He stated that the Village would not choose or declare it, but he would like to take an aggressive look and to always pay attention to it and make sure the Village is presented well enough that if the State Legislature and the Federal Government decide that this opportunity is going to come around that the Village is ready to provide that mechanism that allows it to do that.

Mayor Knudsen referenced the California Excellence Fund. She stated that the Council were not tax advisors, however they were determining what the mechanism is to accept a payment and whether or not they will give the residents tools in the toolbox to use if they take deductions and consult with a tax advisor. She stated that the Village would only be supplying the mechanism that if somebody chooses to take that as a deduction, then they have that option.

Councilwoman Walsh said that the mechanism would have to be fair to everybody, it wouldn’t be for those that can pay their taxes upfront and those that can’t. Mr. Rooney stated that someone is going to tell us what the mechanism is, the Council will not be able to decide themselves.

Mayor Knudsen stated that the inequality that Councilwoman Walsh spoke of has always existed when it comes to paying property taxes. She stated that the Council would look at it and see how they would organize it and whether or not it works.

1. Operations

 

1. Discuss Burbio Calendar App

 

Ms. Mailander stated that there was a presentation before the Council in December on this application, it highlights events in the community and puts them on the calendars of users of the app. It is free of charge, with income coming from the advertisers. Businesses can also advertise discounts or certain promotions. The Village can also display garbage or leaf pickup, and give information about the schools.

Ms. Mailander stated that the calendar starts with the school, library and government events, and is announced in the local press. Residents and non-profit groups would be sent an email announcing the existence of it and inviting them to sign up for free, and then an icon could be put on the Village website. It had been left as requiring a further discussion, and Ms. Mailander inquired whether the Village Council would like to move forward with this app.

Councilman Hache stated that he like the app, he thinks it was a great presentation, and the fact that it was of no cost to the Village is a plus. His question was if they would expand the app to more community events that are not necessarily related to the Village, for example, anything going on downtown sponsored by the Guild or the Chamber of Commerce, would that also be included at zero cost to the Village. Ms. Mailander stated that the Chamber or the Guild would be free of charge if it were their event.

Mayor Knudsen stated that she received an email and the android app has been launched by Burbio. She stated that you can pick and choose which sites you add to your calendar, but the Village would be promoting it from their end. She feels that it is highly organized and resolves the issue of trying to follow different websites and calendars because it places all of that in one location.

It was decided that a resolution would be prepared stating that the Council is in agreement and willing to move forward.

1. Major Soil Permit

 

Ms. Mailander stated that this was for the major soil permit for Ridgewood Dayton, LLC, 100-152 South Broad Street. There was some concern because the trucking route was down South Broad Street exclusively, the new resolution which has been given to the Council to review, directs the trucks to both South Broad Street and Prospect Street.

Ms. Mailander stated that there is a concern with the speed table on South Broad Street, with trucks going onto and coming off of it and the vibration affecting the foundations of nearby homes. She spoke with Mr. Rutishauser earlier and indicated that was a concern, and he stated that they could require the applicant to remove the speed table temporarily during this time frame and then replace it at the end, or the applicant could choose to go down Prospect Street, which is a wider and more heavily traveled road.

Ms. Mailander stated that the applicant would have to be aware of any events going on in the area churches, weddings, funerals, and would only be permitted between the hours of 8:30 A.M. and 5:30 P.M., Monday through Friday. None shall be permitted in the school zones during the start of school or school dismissal. No trucking on Hudson Street, or East Ridgewood Avenue between Broad Street and Maple Avenue.

Under questioning from Councilwoman Walsh regarding how many truckloads this would equal, Mr. Rutishauser responded that it was in the neighborhood of 400 for the duration of the project which is expected to take a year or so, at least to construct. He knows they are going to want to start some environmental remediation relatively shortly, and the concern of vibration from the speed table can be ameliorated if they want to use that route by removing the speed table and replacing it upon completion of trucking activities.

Councilwoman Walsh clarified that if it is 400 truckloads it is actually 800 truck trips. Mr. Rutishauser agreed and stated that there would also be truckloads of building materials, concrete, lumber, steel, all the ingredients to build the property will have to be brought, as well as waste generated to be removed from the site.

Councilman Hache estimated 16 truck trips per week, and asked whether the Village had any obligation requirement to let Glen Rock know that these trucks would be coming down Broad Street into Glen Rock. Mr. Rogers stated that there was no legal obligation, but the Village could certainly let them know. Mr. Rutishauser stated that he would refer that concern to the police department because the permit requires coordination between the departments, and he would ask the police department to reach out to their colleagues in Glen Rock and give them notice as a courtesy.

Mayor Knudsen asked if the width of Prospect Street and Broad Street were known. Mr. Rutishauser stated that Prospect is wider, there is parking available near the CBD area, he estimates the paved curb to curb width as 50 feet or so. Broad Street is tighter, and the houses are closer to the right of way limit line as opposed to houses on Prospect Street.

Mayor Knudsen then asked where it would be more likely to see children as pedestrians. Mr. Rutishauser stated that it was difficult to tell, he did know of a couple of places including the Quaker Day Care Center right off of South Broad Street, and various churches. He stated that there is language that if there are events at these places that trucks do not run. On Prospect Street, the Village does have a group home, and there is a plan to work with the police department in case there are any walking routes where kids are going to school.

Mayor Knudsen asked if it would be possible to say that full loads take Prospect Street and then re-route on the return trip empty back on Broad Street to split the burden between the roads. Mr. Rutishauser stated that could be done, and added to discussions with contractors and developers. Right now, they are surmising that those are the primary routes, the Village is unsure what they are planning, but he will find out as that is part of the process with the resolution conditions.

Deputy Mayor Sedon asked how they would get to Prospect Street, and Mr. Rutishauser responded Dayton Street. Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that leaving the site the trucks would have to go down Passaic Street, but he stated that it would have to be looked at carefully because of the school on the south side of Mount Carmel.

Mayor Knudsen then asked if in the resolution would the Council need to get into the specifics, but Councilwoman Walsh pointed out that they are unsure where the trucks would be going to dump.

Mr. Rutishauser stated that it was a condition in the permit to get the trucking routes from the developer. The police traffic control bureau will then vet them with an understanding of what activities go on regarding school children.

Mayor Knudsen stated that she wouldn’t want to see all of the trucks on one street, that the burden should be shared as best it can be achieved. Mr. Rogers responded that he believed the way the resolution was written is that it has to meet the approval of the Engineer and the Chief of Police. It would not be able to be determined tonight, but Mr. Rogers stated that the resolution could be upheld by asking that they report back to the Council once a route is determined so that if there are any comments on it the Council can go back to Mr. Rutishauser with that.

Deputy Mayor Sedon asked whether these two routes were the only options. Mr. Rutishauser responded that he did not want trucks on East Ridgewood Avenue, and the only other routing would be onto Broad Street, cross East Ridgewood Avenue, onto North Broad Street and then taking Franklin Avenue, and at the intersection making a right turn and heading down towards Maple Avenue. He reiterated that this was not the optimal area for this type of truck traffic. Once the routes are reviewed by Engineering and the Police Department, Mr. Rutishauser agreed they would be made available to the Council.

Ms. Mailander asked whether the Council wanted to put in the resolution about the removal of the speed table. Mr. Rogers stated that he didn’t think that was necessary, however Mr. Rutishauser recommended that it is a condition of the resolution because if the developer does remove it for their convenience, it is important that it is reestablished as the Village has had it.  

Mayor Knudsen stated that the speed bump is an important traffic safety installation. Ms. Mailander stated that the removal would be temporary and then it would be restored. She felt the concerns were for the residents in that area and the vibrations from the back wheels of the trucks coming off the speed table. Mayor Knudsen clarified that she was asking the duration of not just these trucks, but then the speed table would still be out when the construction was ongoing. Mr. Rogers pointed out that the Council would also have to work out routes for KS Broad and Chestnut Village. He stated that the Broad Street utilization may be the optimum for a lot of things, and these projects could be running at the same time.

Mr. Rutishauser also mentioned that to the Deputy Mayor and Mayor’s points, the Dayton project was going to have the traffic generally going towards its south, and then there is the Ken Smith site, and their principle traffic route is going to be Franklin Avenue, so the Franklin corridor will not remain unscathed in terms of receiving some truck traffic.

It was decided that a resolution would be put in regarding the removal of the speed table, and the Council would review the proposed routes by the developers upon receipt and review by the Engineering Department as well as the Police Department.

 

1. Report of Independent Arborist – Sycamore Tree at Graydon Pool

                                                                                             

Ms. Mailander stated that the town arborist looked at the Sycamore tree at Graydon Pool, he indicated that he felt that it should probably be removed because it was hollow in certain parts. The Village of Ridgewood hired an independent arborist, A. Wayne Cahilly, owner of Cahilly’s Horticultural Services, LLC in Dumont, New Jersey. His background is that he is the Manager of the Lionel Goldfrank III Institutional Mapping Department and the Site Historian for the New York Botanical Garden. He has been the Manager of the Arboretum and Grounds for the New York Botanical Garden, the Lead Arborist for the New York Botanical Garden, Forest Manager in Millbrook, New York, and he’s also had several symposiums and done full time educational programs. Mr. Cahilly has several professional affiliations, has been the recipient of awards and citations, teaches at the New York Botanical Garden as well as lectures and workshops in various locations throughout the tristate area. He also has several publications that he has participated in or been a general consultant on.

Ms. Mailander stated that Deputy Mayor Sedon presented briefly to the Shade Tree Commission, so he will present to the Council as well on what the arborist has said. He stated that it was a 14-page report and that a tomograph was used where 10 locations are taken 6 inches up from the base of the tree and spikes are put in, which are then hit and they begin to send sound waves through the tree. Sensors then use these sound waves like sonar to map the inside of the tree. Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that trees can be hollow and still be structurally sound, and given the size of this tree it would require 9 inches or so of good, living wood all the way around to be structurally sound.   The tomograph found that on the north side of the tree it was 5.5 to 6.0 inches thick, and on the south-southeast side it is 4.5 inches thick. The tree also leans 6.5 degrees towards the south and southeast, so they determined that it is definitely going to fall toward Linwood Avenue. There were two recommendations in the report, one is to remove it which was the final determination that was made, but another suggestion was to significantly trim back the crown but that would require years of a specialized arborist coming in and knowing exactly what to cut and where to cut. However, that won’t save the tree or make anything more structurally sound, so given the location and the number of people around that tree, the final recommendation is to remove it, unfortunately.

Councilwoman Walsh stated that the tree could always be removed but if they did the crown reduction they could see if maybe in a year there would be possibilities. Deputy Mayor Sedon points out that it wouldn’t save the tree, as described in the report, and there are targets that are the impact area of where this tree would come down because of its size. He also pointed out that the leader roots, which are the two biggest roots going into the ground are hollow at least 18 inches deep. Some of the bigger branches are hollow, and the void in the middle is almost 13 feet, it goes all the way up to where to crown begins and down into the roots.

Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that he felt it would be negligent to keep it there and then the tree comes down and injures someone. Mr. Rogers then stated that he has not been part of this conversation regarding the tree, but he can say from a liability standpoint that once you have arborists saying that the tree is dying and should be taken down, if anything were to happen the liability would be plainly on the town because the Village would have been aware of the dangerous conditions.

Mayor Knudsen mentioned seeing a tree fall on a clear, still night, and feels its would be irresponsible to leave it or even to reduce the crown because you are not reducing the likelihood that it would fall. She feels there should be a plan in place as to what the Village wanted to do with the tree, such as what was mentioned by Marcia Ringel, or doing an art installation of part of the bark in Village Hall. However, Mayor Knudsen reiterated that the Village has an obligation to ensure safety first.

Mayor Knudsen then asked how the Village would plan for what is to be done with the tree. Councilman Hache mentioned artwork called The Disjointed Tree, where an artist took a tree that was hollowed out, lined the inside with tin, and the tree was sliced into two-foot sections and suspended through cables, and he thinks that would be a wonderful thing to put in the entrance to Village Hall because there is the vertical space to do it. Lighting from the base creates a beautiful effect on the tree.

It was decided that the sycamore tree at Graydon Pool would be taken down, and that ideas would be collected as to what to do with the tree itself.

1. Improvements to Kings Pond Park

 

Ms. Mailander stated that the Board of Chosen Freeholders granted final approval to a Bergen County Trust Fund grant award of $34,000 to Ridgewood for a park improvement project at its meeting on June 28, 2017. This is a 50/50 matching grant, Ridgewood is responsible to match the grant with at least $34,000. It is to enhance a conservation area, known as Kings Pond located in the southwestern section of Ridgewood on Lakeview Drive. The project would help to delineate the official park property with simple fencing or shrubbery, 20-25 parking spaces, and an ADA accessible path from the parking lot to the water’s edge.

Ms. Mailander stated that Mr. Rutishauser had handed out a full-size plan, and there is a smaller one attached to the memo provided to the Council. When this project was first presented to the Council there was concern about invasive plants, specifically, Japanese knotweed, the Village has done the treatment, and Ms. Mailander believes there is one more treatment coming up this spring. Ms. Mailander stated that in addition there was a request to de-snag the pond, however the grant money cannot be used for this purpose. The original plan had a request for benches to support the passive enjoyment of the park, however with a limited budget it is recommended that benches be funded through other means, perhaps memorial benches. Ms. Mailander stated that trails could also be a component that could be provided by volunteers, or possibly by an Eagle Scout project or a Girl Scout Gold Award project, as has been done at other Ridgewood parklands, most notably Habernickel Park.

Ms. Mailander opened the topic for discussion, she stated a resolution would be done to accept the grant, but she would like to delineate what the recommendation is for the Park and Recreation as well as Engineering departments.

Mayor Knudsen asked if there were any questions, to which Deputy Mayor Sedon pointed out the gazebo that was planned. Mayor Knudsen asked about the line of shrubbery, if that could be either shrubbery or the fence. Mr. Rutishauser stated that this part of Lakeview Drive does not currently have any curb. The Engineering department is proposing to put in curb as part of their Capital Paving Project to better establish the road edge and set back from that a hedge to act as a fence, but not a chain link fence.

Mayor Knudsen had been under the impression that the initial fence concept was because the compost facility was where the knotweed seed had spread from. Mr. Rutishauser responded that there was some consideration for that, however the funding allotted is not enough for this. There are some plantings on the southern boundary of Lot #334 and the compost facility, which is where they would need to put some kind of vegetative barrier to assist in reducing the migration of those spores. However, Mr. Rutishauser stated that the general prevalent wind direction is from the west and northwest. Ms. Mailander then stated that the spores are then airborne and will go onto the area near the water; it would be impossible to have a fence high enough to stop their travel.

Mr. Rutishauser stated that the intent was to capture or mitigate the Japanese knotweed or invasive spores, however they do not see a way that they satisfy this concern in a cost-efficient manner within the constraints of the grant.

Deputy Mayor inquired how many parking spaces are currently existing, to which Mr. Rutishauser responded that there are currently 6 or 7, some of which are used by staff that operate the compost facility, and some are used by residents. One of the reasons the Engineering Department is recommending a curb along Lakeview Drive is that residents park too much on the grass area and it gets muddy. Mr. Rutishauser stated that a curb would better define the roadway, in addition to widening the roadway slightly because due to the compost facility there is a lot of truck traffic, hopefully the residents will find it safer.

Deputy Mayor Sedon questioned whether there was a need for 25 parking spaces at this location. Mr. Rutishauser responded that additional parking spaces could always be added. Ms. Mailander added that the hope is that in the future this area would become more developed so there would hopefully be a need for all of the parking spaces. She added that the grant initially provided for 34 parking spaces. Mr. Rutishauser added that he knows there has been a lot of discussion about how this is an underutilized natural area of the Village, and the hope is that if parking is provided a project like this would generate interest.

Mayor Knudsen stated that she agrees with the parking and thinks that this is going to be beautiful. She said that a great commitment has been made to King’s Pond Park and it could become quite popular.

Ms. Mailander stated that the Council will then be set to do the resolution for next week with the current plan in mind. Mr. Rutishauser mentioned that the gazebo was an idea that was considered, however it is not something that would be added at this point, but if interest opens up, the provided example shows one way that it could be situated on the site.   Mayor Knudsen stated that the beauty of King’s Pond Park is that it does not have that type of structure, so the gazebo doesn’t seem to fit anyway. Mr. Rutishauser agreed and stated that was why a stonedust path was added rather than a hardscape surface such as paving.

It was decided that a Resolution will be prepared for the next Council meeting.

1. REVIEW OF JANUARY 17, 2018 PUBLIC MEETING AGENDA

 

Ms. Mailander stated that there are proclamations for Jamboree Days, recognition of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, also there has been a request from Super Science Saturday as it is their 30^th Anniversary and they would like to get a January proclamation even though it is usually done in February for advertising purposes. There will be a swearing in of the Village’s new police officers who graduated the academy in December.

Ordinances for Ridgewood Water include: Bond Ordinance – Carr GAC Treatment System.

Resolutions for Ridgewood Water include: Award of Professional Services Contract – Public Policy Consultant, Award of Professional Services Contract – Change Order – Booster/Transfer Station Improvements, Award State Contract – Chlorine Analyzers and Supplies, Bid Rejection – Cedar Hill Rehabilitations, Award Contract – Cedar Hill Rehabilitation, Bid Rejection – 2018 Well Improvements, and Authorizing Temporary Water Capital Budget.

The following ordinances are scheduled for introduction: Bond Ordinance – Paving.

The scheduled public hearings include: Amending White Collar/Blue Collar Management Salary Ordinances, Amendment to Chapter 255 Vehicles in Traffic - CDB Employee Parking for Cottage Place Lot, Amendment to Chapter 255 Vehicles in Traffic – Prohibiting the Overweight and Overlength Vehicles on Glenwood Road.

The continued public hearing includes: Amending Chapter 190 – Land Use and Development for Illuminated Interior Signs.

Resolutions include: Authorizing Tax Assessor/Tax Collector Final Appeal of Indoor Settlement Stipulations, Approval of Renewal of Liquor License for Rocco Berardi, Award of Second Year of Contract – Maintenance of Irrigation Systems and Water Fountains, Award of Bergen County Cooperative Purchasing Program – Rock Salt, Award of Professional Engineering Services – Phase I Security Improvements at Village Hall, Amendment to Award of Contract – Two Police Vehicles, Accept Donations for Community Center, Accept Donations for Landscape Elements, Approve Continued Participation in Childhood Lead Exposure Prevention Project, Approve Major Soil Moving Permit, Accepting Open Space Grant – Improvements to Kings Pond Park, Authorizing Temporary Capital Budget, Appointing Registrar of Vital Statistics, Extending Relaxation of Enforcement for Certain Illuminated Signs in CBD, Compliance with Federal Civil Rights Requirements, Award of Contract for Document Management System.

 

1. MANAGER’S REPORT

 

Property Tax Prepayment – Ms. Mailander thanked the employees of the Finance Department who collected and processed over $21,000,000 in 2018 tax prepayments from 3,500 property owners in the last 10 days of 2017.

Snow Removal - Ms. Mailander thanked the snow removal crews who have done a great job between plowing, shoveling, and salting during the snow and ice events. Ms. Mailander stated that they did a great job, and thanked the residents who sent an email or made a phone call telling the Village what a great job they were doing, especially this last snow storm the road were down to blacktop and it was very safe.

Waste Removal – Ms. Mailander wanted to remind everyone that during snow events garbage cans should be moved to the end of residents’ driveways, and continue to do so until there is a clear pathway to the garbage cans which is free of ice and snow.

Parking Permits – Ms. Mailander reported that the 2018 Parking Permit Sales have so far been 193 of 210 premium hangtags which allow residents to park in any lot, 121 regular hangtags, 11 Park & Ride hangtags, 2 non-resident hangtags, 48 CBD stickers issued, 20 CBD hangtags for January, 14 CBD hangtags for February, 3 CBD hangtags for March. Ms. Mailander stated that CBD sticker sales are not as high as they were this time last year, so the information will be shared with the Chamber of Commerce and Ridgewood Guild again to remind their members because the Village needs the CBD employees to park as much as possible where it has been provided.

Health Department - Ms. Mailander stated that January is National Radon Action Month. Free radon test kits will be provided at the Ridgewood Health Department, 5^th Level, Monday through Friday, 8:30 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. Ms. Mailander stated that radon is a radioactive gas that occurs naturally when uranium and radium break down in the soil; radon gas moves up through soil and finds its way into homes. Ms. Mailander stated that radon is a serious health risk, it is the second leading cause of lung cancer and the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. Ms. Mailander stated that radon is invisible and odorless, so it is easy to ignore this potential hazard; if a test indicates a problem, radon mitigation systems can be installed at a cost similar to that of other home repairs. Ms. Mailander stated that a list of certified radon mitigation companies is available at the Health Department.

Chamber of Commerce - Ms. Mailander stated that the Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring Restaurant Week 2018 from January 14^th to January 18^th and January 21^st through January 25^th. Ms. Mailander stated that participating restaurants are offering the chance to experience dining in Ridgewood with a 3-course prix-fixe menu at $25.18 and tax, tip and beverage. Ms. Mailander directed interested individuals to contact the restaurant with reservations and questions, these are listed on the Chamber of Commerce website.

Ice Skating - Ms. Mailander stated that ice skating has been extended at Van Saun County Park, 216 Forest Avenue, Paramus, to Sunday, January 28^th. Hours of operation are 6:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 10:00 A.M. to 9:00 P.M. on Saturday, and 10:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. on Sunday, and the cost is $10.

Estate Card – Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that using the Estate Card helps build up rewards and tax benefits in the third quarter of the year.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day – Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that Monday, January 15^th is Martin Luther King Jr. Day and in observance Village offices will be closed, sanitation/recycling will not be picked up and the recycling center will also be closed. Ms. Mailander also stated that on Martin Luther King. Jr. Day there is a free community program which will feature the Reverend Dr. Calvin G. Sampson as well as student speakers and an outdoor march; Dr. Sampson will deliver remarks addressing the theme ‘The Fierce Urgency of Now.’ Ms. Mailander stated that as the Martin Luther King Jr. Foundation of Ridgewood and Glen Rock host its 36^th annual celebration of Dr. King’s life and legacy. This is a community event taking place at the Ridgewood United Methodist Church, 100 Dayton Street, starting at 10:00 A.M.

Comments - Mayor Knudsen asked about the Ridgewood tree at Van Saun Park, she was inquiring whether the decorations could be collected, as well as the tree which is the Village of Ridgewood’s to plant. Ms. Mailander stated that she would also indicate that if there are some trees that are not claimed by a municipality, Ridgewood would be happy to take them. Ms. Mailander indicated she would follow up to make sure that the decorations will be collected.

Mayor Knudsen also asked about Glenwood Road and how the Village will be getting information out to residents, suggesting perhaps an e-notice or handing out fliers. Ms. Mailander stated that the Village does have speed signs indicating overweight and overlength vehicles both at the top of Warren Avenue (Ho-Ho-Kus) and at the top of Glenwood Road. Ms. Mailander stated that an e-notice could certainly go out to remind residents.

1. COUNCIL REPORTS

 

Special Project Task Force – Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that the Special Project Task Force met on Monday, and that himself and Mayor Knudsen were in attendance. The discussion was to begin looking at various scenarios that the new tax bill might bring to the Village and the Budget and to residents. They would like to be forward-looking and to avoid being surprised by anything.

Mayor Knudsen added that it was a very robust conversation about tax reform and the initiatives of charitable contributions and how that may or may not work.

Shade Tree Commission – Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that the Shade Tree Commission met on Tuesday night downstairs at Village Hall. The Graydon Pool sycamore tree was discussed, as well as various ways to get information out about tree planting and the upcoming plantings for next fall. Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that they also discussed the possibility of bringing in an outside expert to design one of the tree wells or what the Shade Tree Commission would like to actually do with the tree wells, they have four experimental pits with drainage and root guards and new soil. They would like to bring in someone professional to assess what they have and potentially come up with an upgraded design.

Citizens Safety Advisory Committee (CSAC) – Councilwoman Walsh state that CSAC met after the last Council meeting. There was a lot on the agenda, but it kept coming back to was that the Complete Street Program is mentioned often, but not many people in the Village have a grasp of what that Complete Streets meant. So the CSAC was thinking that it might be a good idea for the Council to give a refresher to the residents about the program, what the goal is, and help them at the Council understand all of the different applications for grants that tie in, such as Safer Schools. Councilwoman Walsh stated that the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee wanted to put on the Council’s calendar, get copies and makes notes as to things to update in the program and update the things that have been done since the Complete Street Program started. Councilwoman Walsh would like to do a collaborative presentation at a future work session with their Chairman, Engineer, Liaison from the Police Department. Councilwoman Walsh stated that CSAC was updating By-Laws because over the years they had been loosely followed, and the structure of Citizen Safety said that the Village Manager or their designee should be at the meetings, so the group will make some recommendations to the structure in addition to the By-Laws. Councilwoman Walsh stated that one of the other members of the structure that had not been attending, has indicated that they do want to start attending meetings, so the Federated HSA President, Melinda Cronk, will continue now to attend. Councilwoman Walsh stated that Sheila Brogan and Beth Abbott presented at the last CSAC meeting and what they are working on is in collaboration with what Complete Streets is trying to do, so they were hoping to do a refresher with the Council on that as well.

Ridgewood Arts Council – Councilwoman Walsh stated that the next artist series is January 23^rd at 7:30 P.M. in the Library Auditorium, with Eric Corriel who makes you feel like you are inside the art as it’s happening. The meeting was January 9, 2018, and Millennium Strategies had forwarded the suggestion of a grant for the Arts Council to review, and since it was the first submission the group was concerned about the next steps, so the Arts Council asked Councilwoman Walsh to relay this information to the Council and see if they had done this before and what routes were taken to get to the next step. The Arts Council is unsure of what they should be adding without overstepping.

Mayor Knudsen stated that Millennium Strategies had been contacting her with grant opportunities and then they are sent to either a department or a Councilperson where it would make sense. Mayor Knudsen stated that this grant was for the NEAB Read, which is the coordination of art events with libraries, and that if Village Staff needed to be used, Councilwoman Walsh could go to Mayor Knudsen, who indicated that Councilwoman Walsh and Audrey Fink would be the liaisons. However, Mayor Knudsen stated that if the Council wishes in the future that if the grant opportunity really pertains to a committee, this could be brought to the Council and asked if they want to pursue the opportunity or not because some grants may not be funded at 100%, therefore the committee may not actually want it.

Councilwoman Walsh stated that the grant had a lot of moving parts, that the Arts Council felt might also involve the schools and the library, and the Arts Council could not commit them without approaching them about partnering. Mayor Knudsen asked whether they had come up with any ideas for the grant yet, and Councilwoman Walsh stated that it had been spoken about at the meeting the night before and there were many different opinions, and that there were a lot of moving parts and a lot of coordination and planning necessary.

Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that he had been in contact with Millennium Strategies and they asked if there were any grants that his group was interested in because of Sustainable Jersey, so he told them about a 50/50 matching grant through PSEG and Sustainable Jersey for tree inventory, and last year the Shade Tree Commission had budgeted in the Capital Budget half of that in case they received the grant, however it was unsuccessful. Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that he did send the application that was submitted last year to Millennium Strategies for review, however he has not heard back. Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that if the grant involved a matching grant from the Village, or in any other instance it should come before the Council. Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that the Village received a CSIP certification that allows them to receive additional grants out of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, so he suggested that Millennium Strategies look around there.

Mayor Knudsen asked Councilwoman Walsh what the commitment on the grant was from the schools, and Councilwoman Walsh stated that it was on 10 actions where a book was chosen and it was the focus of everything else that was done, and then the 10 actions had to be committed to, such as an artist series or working with the library. The library received this grant last year with The Boys in the Boat, and apparently it was very labor intensive, and the community had to be involved.

Councilwoman Walsh stated that the Arts Council was wondering whether they should go out and find the grants and submit them to Millennium Strategies so as not to wait for them to come up with the opportunities. Ms. Mailander stated that it could certainly work both ways, and that if opportunities are found Millennium Strategies could be the grant writer. Councilwoman Walsh stated that this may be the easier way to do it because the Council would know what their commitment is with their workforce and then Ms. Mailander could let them know what Village personnel could assist.

Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that this was a good idea, when the committee and the grant writers at Millennium Strategies agree on everything and get moving, then it would come before the Council for approval. Ms. Mailander stated to clarify that the Village has applied for a few grants that are 100% funded, and in those cases it hasn’t been brought before the Council because of the fact that if it is received it would be at 100% and it would be of benefit. There was agreement that grants for committees would come before the Council.

Central Business District Advisory Committee – Councilman Hache stated that they would be hosting the first Central Business District Community Forum on January 17, 2018. Councilman Hache stated that it is important because our businesses are a very important part of our community but we get to hear very little from them, so this event will provide an opportunity to have an open dialogue with them and for the Committee to talk about the things they have been focusing on and the challenges that the committee and the Village has met in some of the implementation of what they have tried. Councilman Hache stated that most importantly this event was to share some of the success stories businesses are having, and obviously the challenges they are facing as business owners. As well as receiving some feedback from this group as to what are the things they can be doing to improve the Central Business District. Councilman Hache stated that this is only for the businesses, here in Village Hall, and hopefully the first of what should be a monthly series. Councilman Hache feels it is a great start to the year to begin with some dialogue and communication. Councilman Hache announced he will also begin a monthly newsletter that residents can opt-into to update residents on what’s happening in hopes of communicating more openly. The first newsletter should hopefully go out next week.

Councilman Hache stated that the CBDAC will meet again tomorrow at 8:30 A.M. and part of the discussion will be a presentation from the high school student who has designed the new DowntownRidgewood.com website which will hopefully be ready to launch soon, as well as some of the projects and things the group would like to do moving forward which would involve partnering with the Ridgewood Arts Council and Shade Tree Commission. Councilman Hache stated that by teaming up with the Ridgewood Arts Council perhaps they could find some creative ways to fund the decorating of some of the empty storefronts downtown.

Councilman Hache stated that regarding the newsletter, it would give an opportunity to provide some topical discussions, such as Complete Streets, as a way to keep everyone engaged and informed.

July 4^th Committee – Mayor Knudsen stated that this was cancelled Monday night due to weather. This meeting has been rescheduled for Tuesday, January 16^th at 7:30 P.M. Mayor Knudsen stated that the committee is looking for suggestions and recommendations for themes for the 2018 July 4^th celebration. Mayor Knudsen urged anyone with ideas that haven’t been done recently, or ever, to submit them to her via email.

Planning Board – Mayor Knudsen stated the Planning Board is meeting Tuesday at 7:30 P.M., there are two resolutions on the agenda, Ken Smith and the Enclave, and they will memorialize those approvals for those applications with all conditions of approval.

Community Access Network - Mayor Knudsen stated that on Thursday, January 18^th Community Access Network would be meeting.

Historic Preservation Commission - Mayor Knudsen stated that the Historic Preservation Commission would be meeting on Thursday, January 11^th in the Garden Room. Mayor Knudsen stated that on the agenda are two actual residences, one on South Broad Street with the proposed removal of an addition and staircases and to install a deck, and the other for an East Saddle River Road location for a restoration project of an exterior wall.

1. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

Rurik Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, stated that he really appreciated Mr. Rogers insight and wisdom and his advice and he felt comfortable with Councilwoman Walsh’s soundness. Mr. Halaby stated that regarding the trucks, Ridgewood has a reputation for being the worst town to do business in and the debate that was had today was a good example of why. He agreed with what Mr. Rogers said to leave it to the contractor, and he felt that 16 trucks a week was nothing. Mr. Halaby stated that as far as the garage, his instinct after listening to Mr. Rutishauser is that demand is far weaker than we think, the fact that 23 people asked for the documents means nothing. Mr. Halaby agreed with the Mayor that it should be extended, that the Village has been waiting already, and it should be done right. Mr. Halaby stated that the tree at Graydon Pool, he suggested asking the Shade Tree Commission to work with the grade school students to come up with ideas as to which tree should replace it, and have a naming opportunity to really focus people on the Village. Mr. Halaby stated that he was so impressed with Mr. Rogers comments at the meeting that he thought he should run for Village Council.

Andrew Kohut, on behalf of Ridgewood Dayton LLC, asked about two of the conditions on the soil moving permit regarding the school zone, and not coming down East Ridgewood Avenue between Broad Street and Maple Avenue, as confirmed by Mr. Rutishauser and Deputy Mayor Sedon. Ms. Mailander clarified about the drop off and pick up times that trucks should not be in the vicinity of the schools.

Marcia Ringel, 250 Ferris Place, wished to commend the Village for seeking a second opinion about the tree at Graydon Pool. She stated that the Village has competent staff, and sometimes it is important to take that extra step. Ms. Ringel stated that it feels a little less horrible that the tree may have to go. Ms. Ringel asked about how to share suggestions. Ms. Mailander stated that they could be shared with her and she would bring them before the Council. Ms. Ringel asked if there was a deadline, did the Village know when the tree would be taken down. Ms. Mailander stated that it had been slated for December, however that didn’t happen as they were waiting for the arborist report and she would reach out to the Parks Department to find out. Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that he did not know either, but it was part of the discussion at the Shade Tree Commission meeting the night before, and due to the soft ground and the plumbing underneath it would be ideal for the tree to be taken down in the winter when the ground is frozen. Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that they would probably have to have individual climbers up in the tree to cut it down piece by piece as it would be difficult to get equipment on the island. Deputy Mayor Sedon also stated that sycamore trees are difficult to cut down because they create a lot of sawdust that causes respiratory infections in climbers when they have to cut it down, so if it is cut down when the weather is colder it cuts down on about 50% of the sawdust and the colder ground would allow for the mid-size equipment. Deputy Mayor Sedon estimates that it would be cut down at the end of January or February. Ms. Mailander stated that she could have a date by next weeks meeting, so if people have suggestions they should get them in within the next couple of weeks.

Ms. Ringel asked if there was any assurance that a sycamore or something similar would replace it. Deputy Mayor Sedon responded that was also discussed, and because it is in a swimming pool and surrounded by water most of the year, how much ground and cubic yards of soil are actually there to support a tree. He stated that putting in a bigger tree, for example a 10” or 12” tree, is much more expensive at around $15,000 or $17,000, and for every inch it takes that long in years for it to actually establish, so it would not grow as fast and there is a good chance that it might not grow at all. Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that the recommendation was to put in a smaller tree, which would establish much quicker and grow to its natural rate of growth, and in 20-25 years it would probably be the same size as a larger tree would. There is nothing set in stone as of yet, so the Shade Tree Commission wanted to work with experts to gather several recommendations for the Council based on where the tree is and what has to be done to plant trees there, and that could take several months to come up with.

Ms. Ringel questioned if that meant the Fall, and Deputy Mayor Sedon agreed with her that that was the best time to plant, anytime between September and the end of December possibly.

Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that the Shade Tree Commission meets the second Tuesday of every month at 7:30 P.M. downstairs in the Garden Room, and that the meetings are always open to the public.

Ms. Ringel asked Councilman Hache about the art installation he had mentioned and where it could be seen, to which Councilman Hache responded that it was at a restaurant in Montvale and he would send her a photograph; it is at Rail’s Steakhouse. Councilman Hache stated that it would be a beautiful project.

Ms. Ringel inquired about the possibility of a taking down ceremony, and Mayor Knudsen stated that all ideas for what to do with the tree will be taken, and once there is an idea of the day Preserve Graydon could certainly use that as an opportunity to put something together.

Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, continuing on the tree at Graydon Pool, wanted to inquire whether there would be a resolution that the Council is approving regarding the removal of the tree. Mayor Knudsen agreed that could be done. Mr. Loving then spoke about Mr. Rutishauser’s comments regarding the soil moving permit, and the discussion about possible trucking routes. Mr. Loving stated that there was mention of a possible route making a left turn out of the old Brogan Cadillac Site, go across Ridgewood Avenue, down North Broad Street, and then make a right on Franklin, however Mr. Rutishauser stated that this was not am optimal route for this type of truck traffic. This surprised Mr. Loving because he was wondering where are the trucks from Ken Smith going to go as they are right on Franklin Avenue.

Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that Mr. Rutishauser did say that Ken Smith traffic would be going down Franklin Avenue. Councilman Hache stated that the concern was the intersection at Broad Street and Ridgewood and the cars that are angle parking and backing out onto Broad Street having those trucks coming down. Mr. Loving stated that Ridgewood is a residential community, and there is no optimal route anywhere. He believes the route needs to be specified. Mr. Loving stated that he believes the speed hump should be put in a resolution because there will be an expense associated with the removal of the speed hump and the reinstallation and he is concerned that they business will try to avoid the expense. Mr. Rogers stated that he said it wasn’t necessary when Ms. Mailander and Mr. Rutishauser were discussing it.

Mr. Loving was disappointed that there was no mention made about the results of the Valet Parking Program. He felt that the results might impact the Council’s decision with respect to the parking garage. Mr. Loving’s understanding was that the goal in order to break even was that 250 cars be parked, he’s not sure whether it was a night or a weekend, but nowhere near that number were parked. Mr. Loving’s conclusion was to ask if there really was a parking problem. His hope is that during an upcoming Council meeting either Ms. Mailander or Councilman Hache could give a detailed report as to the number of cars that were parked and how much money was spent. Mr. Loving feels that this needs to be looked into before spending the $9 million on a garage because if there is no one valet parking their cars then there will be no one using the garage. Ms. Mailander stated that there will be a report on January 31^st after all of the figures are gathered.

Mayor Knudsen inquired as to when the meeting for the public presentation on the bid process would be, Ms. Mailander responded that it could be January 31^st or February 7^th. Mayor Knudsen stated that if possible it should be done on January 31^st and if Councilwoman Walsh agreed the Complete Streets presentation would be done in February.

1. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION

 

Deputy Village Clerk, Donna Jackson read Resolution #18-01 to go into Closed Session as follows:

1. ADJOURNMENT

 

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Deputy Mayor Sedon, seconded by Councilman Hache, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Work Session was adjourned at 10:11 P.M.

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                                                                                                     Susan Knudsen                            

Mayor                        

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              Donna M. Jackson

           Deputy Village Clerk