Village council Public Meeting Minutes 20180117
A REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING 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 17, 2018 AT 8:00 P.M.
1. CALL TO ORDER – OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS ACT – ROLL CALL – FLAG SALUTE
Mayor Knudsen called the meeting to order at 8:02 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, Councilman Voigt, Councilwoman Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen. Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Manager/Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney.
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 and all first responders.
2. ACCEPTANCE OF FINANCIAL REPORTS
Mayor Knudsen moved that the Bills, Claims, and Vouchers, and Statement of Funds on Hand as of December 31, 2017, be accepted as submitted. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Council minutes of June 7, June 28, and December 13, 2017 having been reviewed by the Village Council and now available in the Village Manager/Village Clerk’s Office be approved as submitted. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
4. PROCLAMATIONS
a.) JAMBOREE DAYS
Mayor Knudsen read the following proclamation:
b.) SUPER SCIENCE SATURDAY
Councilman Voigt read the following proclamation:
5. SWEARING-IN OF POLICE OFFICERS
Mayor Knudsen congratulated the two new police officers for making it through the entire process. Mayor Knudsen explained that Ridgewood is a Civil Service community and that the new officers participated in a very rigorous Civil Service exam; were hired by the Village of Ridgewood; completed their training at the Bergen County Police Academy which was a physically grueling, academically challenging, and emotionally draining experience, over the course of 22 weeks. Mayor Knudsen congratulated the two police officers.
There was a round of applause from everyone in attendance.
a.) POLICE OFFICER HECTOR PEREZ
Hector Perez was sworn in as a Police Officer by Mayor Knudsen while his wife held the Bible and his daughters looked on. There was a round of applause and congratulations from everyone in attendance.
b.) POLICE OFFICER MIGUEL TORRESLOPEZ
Hector Perez was sworn in as a Police Officer by Mayor Knudsen while his wife held the Bible and his sons looked on. There was a round of applause and congratulations from everyone in attendance.
Mayor Knudsen congratulated the two new police officers again and wished them a long, happy, healthy and safe career.
6. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Mayor Knudsen asked if there were any comments or questions from the public.
Ellie Gruber, 229 South Irving Street, representing the Ridgewood Wildscape Association, stated that last week after the presentation about the grant received for Kings Pond Park, a letter was sent by the Ridgewood Wildscape Association thanking the Village of Ridgewood for applying for the grant and providing the matching funds as well as suggestions that outlined what the Ridgewood Wildscape Association felt to be good uses for the money. Ms. Gruber stated that the value of these areas cannot be exaggerated, they are unique, they are the last and only remaining forested areas and natural corridors on the entire Goffle Brook, in both Bergen and Passaic Counties. Ms. Gruber stated that for the past 6 years, Wildscape and the tireless community from Lakeview Avenue have tried to make the Village aware of this beauty by conducting walks, clean ups, and promoting invasive plant control.
Ms. Gruber stated that the Ridgewood Wildscape Association is very pleased that the Village Council has funded invasive plant control along Kings Pond; however, the best protection for the path is indeed a multi-faceted protection project including a barrier. Ms. Gruber stated that last year, the Village Council was sent a video explaining how a chain link fence to support a silt fence solid barrier would work. Ms. Gruber stated that last week, the Village Council heard that no fence could be high enough as the seeds would fly around. She stated that this is not correct, because the seeds are not spores to be spread in the wind, they are large and spread by water and water movement from a gentle lane to stormwater to landslides down the steep slopes of the mulch facility, into the delicate wetland forest, and that needs protection.
Ms. Gruber stated that the longer the wait, the more costly it will become, and as for the other parts of the presentation, the Ridgewood Wildscape Association is glad to know that the pavement for the parking lot will be permeable, however they urge the Council to install green infrastructure with the curb and shrubbery such as curb cut outs that funnel the stormwater into swales, and some other examples were provided in their letter.
Ms. Gruber urged that anything planted be native to Ridgewood and from a native source, in order to preserve the natural heritage. Ms. Gruber asked that the Council consult with the Ridgewood Wildscape Association about planting choices, as they are happy to provide species lists of plants that are suitable for curbside beds. Ms. Gruber stated that Jean Epiphan, the Ridgewood Wildscape Association’s resident ecologist, works at Rutgers University as a consultant, is an ecological consultant to landscape architects, and has worked on high profile projects in this area and New York City, and Wildscape is very lucky to have her consult for them. Ms. Gruber asked that some sort of access be planned from Kings Pond to Gypsy Pond, because only the very young and the very nimble can get from Kings Pond to Gypsy Pond because the dam is broken. Ms. Gruber stated that the Ridgewood Wildscape Association wanted to thank the Council for recognizing the value of these two beautiful areas.
Mayor Knudsen mentioned that the 6-foot fence and the silt fence could not be covered in the grant, but the Village Manager is looking at what the options might be so that protection of that area can be ensured.
7. MANAGERS REPORT
Village Manager Heather Mailander reminded everyone that on days when it is snowy or icy, residents should bring their garbage cans to the end of their driveways. Sidewalks must be cleared or shoveled within 24 hours of the snow falling. Ms. Mailander stated that in a recent snowstorm, 60 summonses were issued for failure to shovel sidewalks, several days after the storm. She encouraged residents to clear their sidewalks, as well as clearing snow around fire hydrants.
Ms. Mailander stated that as to the parking deck, the responses to the RFP are due Friday, January 19, 2018 and results will most likely be reported at the January 31, 2018 Council meeting.
Ms. Mailander stated that health inspection reports at food establishments in Ridgewood, whether they be restaurants or delis, will be posted on the Village website as well as the Village’s Facebook page, by the end of the week. The report will show if the food establishments were Satisfactory, Conditional, or Unsatisfactory upon inspection.
Ms. Mailander stated that Restaurant Week, sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce, continues tonight, January 17th, and tomorrow, January 18th, and then next week Sunday through Thursday. This information is on the Chamber’s website which is www.RidgewoodChamber.com. Ms. Mailander noted that there were a few exceptions but encouraged residents to please call the restaurants with any questions, and make reservations. Ms. Mailander stated that there were approximately 20 different restaurants, as well as 3 different catering facilities Chestnut Deli and Catering, SMOKED 2 GO, and Endless Possibilities Catering, and then specialty foods and beverages includes the Wine Seller, Super Cellars Wine and Cheese, and then a sweet category which is Ben & Jerry’s and Samba Bowls. Ms. Mailander encouraged everyone to enjoy Restaurant Week.
8. COUNCIL REPORTS
Planning Board – Councilman Voigt stated that the Planning Board meeting was canceled the night before.
Ridgewood Environmental Advisory Committee (REAC) and The Green Team – Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that these groups met last night, and he wished to thank the Director of Operations, Rich Calbi, and Superintendent of Public Works, Dan Kiely, for coming to the meeting, where there was a great discussion about how REAC could help to promote recycling. Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that Mr. Kiely reported that they were looking into an app that could be used to help identify different things to recycle, because the market is changing. China is the biggest purchaser of recycled material and is demanding cleaner materials, so it gets confusing as to what can and cannot be recycled. Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that the app would be interactive, updates will be available as they happen, and the app could help guide everyone through the market change. Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that further grant opportunities through Sustainable Jersey were also discussed.
Citizens Safety Advisory Committee – Councilwoman Walsh stated that tomorrow, January 18, 2018, was the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee meeting in the Garden Room at 7:30 P.M.
Ridgewood Arts Council – Councilwoman Walsh stated that on Tuesday, January 23, 2018, the Ridgewood Arts Council will hold their Artist Series at the library at 7:30 P.M., and the artist is Eric Corriel.
Central Business District Advisory Committee (CBDAC) – Councilman Hache stated that today, the Central Business District Advisory Committee held the first CBD Community Forum in Village Hall and it was very well attended by restaurants, retailers, and service businesses. Councilman Hache stated that it was a great initial discussion and very necessary, because very often, the Village Council does not get to hear from the business owners themselves, so this was a great opportunity to do so. Councilman Hache stated that some of the challenges that were mentioned by business owners were those brought on by online shopping, and that opportunities were also discussed as well. Councilman Hache stated that the best part of the discussion was that it was open and constructive, and that parking was discussed as well. Councilman Hache stated that there was additional discussion on some of the ordinances in the Village and how restrictive they could be on the businesses, and the CBDAC will start to look at some of those ordinances to determine which ones impact the CBD. Councilman Hache stated that the timing of the meeting was not convenient for all, and they may have to hold multiple sessions to continue the dialogue. Mayor Knudsen and Councilman Voigt were also in attendance at the CBD Community Forum.
Mayor Knudsen added that the Forum was very well attended, with about 40 individuals in attendance. There was a tremendous amount of input about their day to day existence and the tools that they need in their toolbox to be successful. Mayor Knudsen stated it was eye-opening and very informative.
Ridgewood High School (RHS) – Councilman Hache encouraged everyone to look at the Ridgewood High School Alumni page, as there is a video that was shot by a very talented local resident using a drone, and highlighting the Ridgewood High School property. It also featured a number of RHS alumni speaking in the video.
Community Relations Advisory Board (CRAB) – Mayor Knudsen stated that the Community Relations Advisory Board was currently meeting downstairs.
Community Access Network – Mayor Knudsen stated that the Community Access Network meets Thursday, January 18, 2018, in the Patrick Mancuso Room at 7:30 P.M.
Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) – Mayor Knudsen stated that the Historic Preservation Commission met last Thursday evening, January 11, 2018, and that there was one fascinating application which is a house from the early 1800s at the corner of Glen Avenue and Saddle River Road, where the homeowner will be doing a major renovation project. Mayor Knudsen stated that the application included a lot of historic photos, and the owner will be very complementary and respectful of the historic structure of the house. Mayor Knudsen stated that there were also two residents who indicated that they had particular interest in a property at 315 East Glen Avenue, which is currently the subject of a subdivision application before the Planning Board. Mayor Knudsen stated that the residents have a particular interest that the original structure on the property may have been part of the Underground Railroad and has significant historic value to the immediate community, statewide, and also to the surrounding properties. Mayor Knudsen stated that backup documentation would be provided, because currently, neither the property nor the house are designated with any historic significance. The Historic Preservation Commission will be moving forward with that, and it will still be the subject of a subdivision, but that has no impact on the actual original structure.
9. ORDINANCES – RIDGEWOOD WATER
a.) INTRODUCTION - #3631 – Bond Ordinance – Granular Activated Carbon Treatment System – Carr Well Field ($3,570,000)
Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of Ordinance 3631. Deputy Mayor Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Manager/Village Clerk read Ordinance 3631 by title:
A BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO THE CARR GAC TREATMENT SYSTEM IN AND BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $3,570,000 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $3,570,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE THE COST THEREOF.
Councilman Hache moved that Ordinance 3631 be adopted on first reading and that February 14, 2018 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Deputy Mayor Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
10. RESOLUTIONS – RIDGEWOOD WATER
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTONS, NUMBERED 18-02 THROUGH 18-09 WERE ADOPTED ON A CONSENT AGENDA, WITH THE EXCEPTION OF 18-03 WHICH WILL BE CONSDERED SEPARATELY AND READ IN FULL, WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:
Prior to Resolution #18-03 being read in full, Councilman Voigt stated that he spoke to Mr. Calbi about this resolution, and that he was looking for some kind of deliverable, he asked the Village Manager/Village Clerk for any additional information she could provide. Ms. Mailander stated that Mr. Calbi, who was not present at the meeting, stated that the resolution is to hire a lobbyist for Ridgewood Water and was about building a coalition of similar utilities like Ridgewood Water, so Ridgewood would have a seat at the table when elected officials in Trenton are considering new legislation and funding alternatives. Ms. Mailander stated that this would not be completed in the 4-month trial period, however at the end of this term, the Village would know whether or not Michael Drulis was the right person for the job. Councilman Voigt stated that at the end of this 4-month period, there should be a good understanding of putting a plan together to create a coalition of like-sized water utilities and then being able to implement it after that.
Ms. Mailander read Resolution 18-03 in full, as follows:
11. ORDINANCES
a.) INTRODUCTION - #3632 – Bond Ordinance – Street Paving and Streetscape ($2,160,000)
Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of Ordinance 3632. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Manager/Village Clerk read Ordinance 3632 by title:
A BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE 2018 ROAD PAVING PROGRAM IN AND BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $2,160,000 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $2,052,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE PART OF THE COST THEREOF.
Deputy Mayor Sedon moved that Ordinance 3632 be adopted on first reading and that February 14, 2018 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
b.) PUBLIC HEARING - #3626 – Amend White Collar Salary Ordinance
Mayor Knudsen moved the second reading of Ordinance 3626 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Manager/Village Clerk read Ordinance 3626 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND SALARY ORDINANCE 3608 FIXING THE SALARIES, WAGES AND OTHER COMPENSATION FOR WHITE COLLAR EMPLOYEES OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY.
The Village Manager/Village Clerk stated that in reviewing the Ordinance, it was noticed that in Schedule H, for the title of Keyboarding Clerk 2, the low end of the salary range should be $45,994 instead of $40,014. The Village Manager/Village Clerk proposed that this amendment be made to the Ordinance. Councilman Voigt moved the amendment to Ordinance 3626 in Schedule H to establish the low end of the salary range for Keyboarding Clerk 2 at $45,994. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Mayor Knudsen announced that the Public Hearing was open on Ordinance 3626, as amended. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Voigt moved that Ordinance 3626, as amended, be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
c.) PUBLIC HEARING - #3627 – Amend Blue Collar Salary Ordinance
Mayor Knudsen moved the second reading of Ordinance 3627 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Deputy Mayor Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Manager/Village Clerk read Ordinance 3627 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND SALARY ORDINANCE 3607 FIXING THE SALARIES, WAGES AND OTHER COMPENSATION FOR BLUE COLLAR EMPLOYEES OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY.
Mayor Knudsen announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Deputy Mayor Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilwoman Walsh moved that Ordinance 3627 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Deputy Mayor Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
d.) PUBLIC HEARING - #3628 – Amend Management Salary Ordinance
Mayor Knudsen moved the second reading of Ordinance 3628 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Manager/Village Clerk read Ordinance 3628 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND SALARY ORDINANCE 3620 FIXING THE SALARIES, WAGES AND OTHER COMPENSATION FOR NON-UNION OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY.
Mayor Knudsen announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Deputy Mayor Sedon moved that Ordinance 3628 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
e.) PUBLIC HEARING - #3629 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – CBD Employee Parking – Cottage Place Lot
Mayor Knudsen moved the second reading of Ordinance 3629 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Manager/Village Clerk read Ordinance 3629 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-29, “PARKING METER ZONE DESIGNATED”.
Mayor Knudsen announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Hache moved that Ordinance 3629 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
f.) PUBLIC HEARING - #3630 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Prohibit Overweight and Over Length Vehicles – Glenwood Road
Mayor Knudsen moved the second reading of Ordinance 3630 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Manager/Village Clerk read Ordinance 3630 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-16.2, “OVERWEIGHT AND OVER LENGTH VEHICLES PROHIBITED”.
Mayor Knudsen announced that the Public Hearing was open on the Ordinance.
Joseph Ferrante, 610 Hillcrest Road, stated that he was pleased to see that this ordinance was proposed, and he had a question regarding the basis for the dimensions, weight and length. Ms. Mailander stated that the ordinance was prepared by the Village Engineer, and the length and weight allows for a larger sized pickup truck to be able to go up the hill at Glenwood Road, but not something like a tandem landscaper truck, box truck, or a tractor trailer truck. Mr. Ferrante asked if there was any trial done by a vehicle of those dimensions. Mr. Rogers stated that the Village Engineer’s experience regarding trucks on Glenwood Road and those that have gotten stuck or had problems or difficulties, and his involvement with this situation from the beginning, are the reasons why these recommendations were made. Mr. Ferrante questioned if this was a conservative judgement on the part of the Village Engineer. Mr. Rogers stated that it was based on what the Village Engineer knows about the vehicles that have gone up and down the hill on Glenwood Road. Mr. Rogers stated that it may be that other vehicles would not be appropriate on this road as well, and this can always be amended depending on what goes on over the course of the next 6 months. Mr. Ferrante asked if it was subject to further review. Mr. Rogers agreed that it was subject to further discretion as to what might be appropriate on that street.
Mayor Knudsen stated that the Village Engineer gave considerable thought to this based on his experience, and the Village Council will continue to monitor it during this 6-month period. Mr. Ferrante thanked the Council and stated that he just wanted to be assured that there was some fact-finding to support the restrictions.
Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Hache moved that Ordinance 3630 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
g.) CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING - #3625 – Amend Chapter 190 – Land Use and Development – Allow Certain Illuminated Interior Signs in the Central Business District
Mayor Knudsen moved the Clerk read Ordinance 3625 by title on third reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Manager/Village Clerk read Ordinance 3625 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 190 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD AT SECTION 122 (E) ENTITLED “SIGNS IN THE B-1, B-2 AND C” DISTRICTS, TO CREATE A NEW SUBSECTION 190-122 E (7) ENTITLED “INTERIOR DISPLAYS”, AND AMEND SECTION 190-3 ENTITLED “DEFINITIONS” AS IT PERTAINS TO “SIGN” AND ADD A NEW DEFINITION OF “INTERIOR DISPLAY”.
Mayor Knudsen announced that the hearing on Ordinance 3625 was continued to this evening’s meeting due to the fact that the Village Council is waiting for the response from the Planning Board on this Ordinance, which is required because it is an amendment to the Land Use Ordinance. The Planning Board has not yet given the Village Council its response, therefore, the Public Hearing will be continued again to the February 14, 2018 Public Meeting. Because the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3625 was advertised for this evening, anyone wishing to speak on this Ordinance was asked to do so at this time.
There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3625 be continued to February 14, 2018. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
12. RESOLUTIONS
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 18-10 THROUGH 18-29, WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:
Mayor Knudsen shared that the Village of Ridgewood is now on the Burbio App, and to look for the icon on the Village website.
13. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that he had some comments on Resolution #18-20 which is the soil moving permit. He stated that during the previous Work Session, there was some discussion about the speed table on South Broad Street being included in the Resolution at the request of the Village Council; however, he did not see that in the resolution presented and was wondering what had changed.
Mr. Loving’s second comment was regarding the trucking routes for soil removal, and he noted that the resolution indicated that no trucking would be permitted on either Hudson Street or East Ridgewood Avenue, between Broad Street and Maple Avenue. Mr. Loving noted that Prospect Street is a route that has been authorized and Mr. Loving is unsure how the trucks are going to get to the site if they come up Prospect Street and they are not allowed to make a left onto Hudson Street. Mr. Loving stated that it seemed like the only way that traffic is being allowed on Prospect Street would be southbound, and he was unsure if that was done intentionally or in error.
Mr. Loving had a minor comment on Item #4 in the soil moving resolution, where the school zones are discussed. His concern was regarding the use of ‘i.e.’ as opposed to ‘for example’ because there are other school zones within the Village, besides those listed in the resolution.
Mr. Loving also stated that he had a comment regarding an email that he sent to the Village Manager on January 3, 2018 concerning what he felt to be a hazardous condition on North Maple Avenue. Mr. Loving stated that it was now January 17, 2018 and it was his understanding that the hazardous condition had not been mitigated by the property owner as the Village Manager indicated would be done sometime the week after his email was sent. Mr. Loving encouraged the Village Manager to follow up with the property owner, as it is his belief that it is an extremely hazardous condition that could result in an individual’s death. Mr. Loving stated that it was his understanding that the police department had taken some proactive action by placing a police car at the location temporarily, but he pointed out that there is a property owner who is not following through where they had promised to do so, and he would expect the Village to follow up and attempt to get the situation mitigated, so that the police car can get back into service.
Bill McCandless, 71 Ridge Road, stated that Resolution #18-20 tells residents that the apartments are coming, and he is wondering how the Village of Ridgewood is going to inform the thousands of residents that the CBD will be suddenly full of truck traffic. Mr. McCandless feels that there needs to be some form of communication to those individuals who may be unaware of what is going to be occurring. Mr. McCandless stated that the hopes the Village finds a way to early and often inform the residents as to what is going on. He mentioned the Garber Square renovation which took place a few years ago, and the only way that a majority of residents on the West side of town knew what was going on in Garber Square was when a giant sign was placed. Mr. McCandless stated that it would be unfortunate if there was a shock when the multi-family housing is built, because Village Council meetings would then become full of people looking to litigate. Mr. McCandless stated that with all of the moving parts, he would press the Village on finding a way to communicate early and often, and find a way to get that information out.
At the same time, Mr. McCandless urged the Village of Ridgewood to be very transparent about what was going to happen at these intersections at a broad level, as these intersections all require hundreds of thousands of dollars of work which will have to be paid for by taxpayers, and he asked about the progress in this area. Mr. McCandless urged the Village to be very transparent about how much the developers will be putting into the intersection improvements, where the money would be coming from, how long it will take, and what it is going to look like. He reiterated that this was going to come as a surprise to a lot of people and that the cost would shock them, in addition to the number of intersections that would be impacted by this work.
Mr. McCandless stated that it wasn’t until last year when the Village recognized that the Garber Square intersection was the most trafficked in the Village, and he felt that the Village needed to be open about what is coming, what’s next, and what it is going to cost.
Mayor Knudsen responded to Mr. McCandless, and asked Mr. Rogers to weigh in as well, stating that currently, the Village is still in court proceedings concerning the multi-family housing, however, regarding timelines, the Village of Ridgewood will be communicating with everyone by way of E-Notice, social media and smoke signals if they have to do so. Mayor Knudsen reiterated that they would do what was necessary to get the message out there. Mayor Knudsen also stated that in terms of the intersections, the Village recognizes that certainly the intersections are in substandard conditions in that area, and there have been some monies that have been agreed to by the developers, based on what is required by law. Beyond that, the Village is working with the County to see how it can move forward and not impact the Village taxpayers, to the extent that it will be a minimal impact. Mayor Knudsen stated that Franklin Avenue is a County road, under the purview of Bergen County, so the Village is anticipating that the County will be assisting with funding some of the intersection improvements.
Mayor Knudsen asked Mr. Rogers to speak in regard to the current status of the affordable housing. Mr. Rogers stated that there was a case management telephone conference tomorrow, January 18, 2018, at 3:30 P.M. Mr. Rogers continued by saying that he foresees that there will be a number of mediation meetings that need to take place with a court-appointed Master, and Fair Share Housing in order to resolve some remaining issues with regard to the Village’s Fair Share Plan. Mr. Rogers stated that if an agreement is reached, then the Village would proceed to a Fairness Hearing, which he would expect to happen sometime in March or April. Mr. Rogers wouldn’t expect work to begin on the multi-family housing developments until the summer months, at the earliest. He explained that this was his own estimate regarding the proceedings that need to occur. Mr. Rogers stated that The Dayton is the first matter that has been brought before the Village Council in regard to any development that is going on in any of the four different CBD developments. Mr. Rogers stated that coordination is going to be key, not only with truck routes, but also timing of developments, construction, and improvements to the intersections. Mr. Rogers stated that there would always be deviations, but it is important that everyone tries to be on the same timeline.
Mr. Rogers also mentioned that regarding the soil movement truck route, routes are not usually worked out until some point later in the process. He explained that wasn’t any reason to avoid putting some of the language into the resolution. Mr. Rogers stated that the truck routes will continue to be defined as this process moves ahead. Mr. Rogers stated that currently, the Village has immunity until the end of February, which may end up having to be bumped until March or April depending upon what happens.
Mayor Knudsen pointed out that last week, the Village Council had a lengthy and robust conversation about what routes should and shouldn’t be used by the trucks, which streets, how many trucks, how big the trucks will be, how often they will travel, and what times they will travel. Mayor Knudsen stated that she felt the Village Council was making it very clear that their first job was to protect residents and the immediate surrounding areas, as well as pedestrians, children, and everyone else. Mayor Knudsen stated that the Village Council’s commitment is to the community, first and foremost.
14. 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 Regular Public Meeting was adjourned at 8:58 P.M.
______________________________ Susan Knudsen
Mayor
______________________________
Heather A. Mailander
Village Manager/Village Clerk
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