20180818 Village Council Public Meeting Minutes
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 AUGUST 8, 2018 AT 8:00 P.M.
- CALL TO ORDER – OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS ACT – ROLL CALL – FLAG SALUTE
Mayor Hache called the meeting to order at 8:00 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. At roll call the following were present: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache. Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney. Deputy Mayor Knudsen was absent.
Mayor Hache led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag as well as in a Moment of Silence to honor the brave men and women serving in our armed forces and all our first responders.
- ACCEPTANCE OF FINANCIAL REPORTS
Mayor Hache moved the Bills, Claims, and Vouchers, and Statement of Funds on Hand as of July 31, 2018, be accepted as submitted. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
- ACCEPTANCE OF MINUTES
Mayor Hache moved that the Village Council minutes of July 1 and July 11, 2018 having been reviewed by the Village Council and now available in the Village Clerk’s Office be approved as submitted. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
- PROCLAMATIONS
- DRIVE SOBER OR GET PULLED OVER 2018 STATEWIDE CRACKDOWN
Councilman Sedon read the following proclamation:
- DECLARE SEPTEMBER OVARIAN CANCER AWARENESS MONTH
Councilwoman Walsh read the following proclamation:
- DECLARE SEPTEMBER NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH
Councilman Voigt read the following proclamation:
- COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Cynthia Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, stated that there was an article on the front page of the Ridgewood News about the reconfiguration of the train station parking lot. She stated that as the President of the Conservancy for Ridgewood Public Lands, they have worked hard to do great things to enhance many of Ridgewood’s public parks. She urged the Council to hold off in spending their time on this project to eliminate the green space at this location, as this is an historic area, no matter how small. It is an underutilized green space that should be turned into a pocket park. She stated that she sent a letter to the Council regarding London and all of their “scrappy pieces of grass” that are used for events over the summer. It is an area that could be transformed with lighting in the trees, benches, and carefully chosen plantings. She questioned the trees that have been identified with ill health that will be cut down, asking why they haven’t been taken down already if they were a danger.
Ms. Halaby stated that as a taxpayer, she was concerned about the amount to transform the parking lot, adding that she would like some assurance that the amount will not continue to escalate. She added that she would like for the Village Council to hold off until they see how the Hudson Street parking garage is settled and built. She reiterated that she did not want to see this area obliterated because once it has been tarmacked and cemented over, there is no recourse.
Jane Rymer, 20 Ethelbert Place, stated that this summer she passed Graydon Pool at various times and she observed the summer day camp in session and was very impressed by what she saw. Hundreds of children were organized into groups and they seemed to respect their counselors and stay with their group. Ms. Rymer stated that she would like to acknowledge and thank the Parks and Recreation Department and the camp counsellors for a very commendable job that they did. This is just another reason to be proud of Ridgewood.
Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that Graydon Pool is wonderful and the water is crystal clear; staff is helpful and the snack bar is great. However, many pool members were very disappointed by the events of Saturday, August 4th when a rain storm came in the morning and was completely over by 9:15 A.M., but the pool was closed all day long, in ninety degree summer weather. Mr. Loving noted that there was no evidence that the Ho-Ho-Kus Brook had flooded the pool, and there was some minor flooding in the parking lot that dissipated by 9:30 A.M. He stated that he was puzzled as to why the pool was closed all day long, as this was the second time it happened this year. He noted that Allendale’s Crestwood Lake opened at 1:00 P.M. that day, the Memorial Pool in Fair Lawn was open that day, and the Hawthorne Municipal Pool was open as well. Mr. Loving asked why there couldn’t have been a delayed opening that day. He stated that although there were emails sent, no one actually heard what happened to cause the pool to be closed for the entire day.
Mayor Hache stated that regarding the fourteen trees at the train station and their health, Ms. Mailander will get back to Ms. Halaby with an answer regarding their condition. He stated that regarding the closure of Graydon on Saturday, he received a notification that Maple Field was on flood watch until 12:30 P.M. Ms. Mailander stated that right at the edge of Maple Park Field that whole area was flooded including part of the parking lot and at Village Hall. The concern was that if it continued to flood, if the brook continued to rise, then it would go into the pool area and contaminate the pool and they would have to treat it. Ms. Mailander stated that they did not know how much longer it was going to rain, and that was the decision that was made by the Parks and Recreation staff.
- MANAGER’S REPORT
Ms. Mailander stated that Bergen County will be resurfacing East Ridgewood Avenue from Paramus Road to Maple Avenue, weather permitting, in the next few weeks. Tuesday, August 21st through Tuesday, August 28th, motorists may be inconvenienced by milling and paving on this street, so residents should plan alternate routes. Paving should be completed by the time school starts.
The Ridgewood Guild is sponsoring “Music in the Night” providing live music throughout the Central Business District on Friday nights through the end of August. They are also sponsoring free “Movies in the Park” every other Wednesday night in the summer. The last movie of the season Planet of the Apes for its 40th Anniversary, will be shown on August 22nd after dark.
Ms. Mailander stated that the Kasschau Memorial Shell Concert Series will end tomorrow night, August 9th. Mack Brandon and The Connection will perform popular gospel, beginning at 8:30 P.M. If any seniors need transportation to the Kasschau Memorial Shell, please call the Village Manager’s office to make a reservation for a free bus ride. Transportation is provided by Age Friendly Ridgewood.
Ms. Mailander stated that the Chamber of Commerce presents Restaurant Week, Sunday through Thursday, August 12th through the 16th, and the following week, August 19th through the 23rd. Each chef is preparing a prix fixe three course menu at $30.18. Quite a few restaurants, catering, sweet treats, and wine selections are participating.
Graydon Pool late season hours begin August 13th through Labor Day, September 3rd. Weekday hours are noon to 7:30 P.M. and weekend/holiday hours are 10:00 A.M. to 7:30 P.M. Late season membership badges are available now through the end of the season. The end of season badge prices are $60 for adults 16 to 61 years and $55 for children 2 to 15 years.
Ms. Mailander stated that Ridgewood Recreation has a wide variety of camps running through the end of August for all ages, including tennis instruction, golf, Abracadoodle, engineering and robotics, and lacrosse.
Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that there are summer discount tickets to various popular recreation destinations such as Hershey Park, Six Flags Great Adventure, Wild Safari, Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom, Medieval Times, and Crayola Experience are available at the Ridgewood Recreation Department located in The Stable.
Village offices will be closed Monday, September 3rd in observance of Labor Day.
Ms. Mailander stated that the next Village Council meeting will be Wednesday, September 5th at 7:30 P.M. which is a Work Session.
The 2018 Chamber of Commerce Car Show will take place rain or shine on Friday, September 7th from 6:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. It is known as the best evening car show in our area.
Ms. Mailander stated that last month, there was a resident with several questions relating to posts seen on social media about HealthBarn. Regarding the number of visitors and children and whether they exceed the fire code, Ms. Mailander stated that they do not exceed the fire code.
Regarding the types and sizes of buses going to Health Barn and whether they were allowed under the lease, they are allowed and there is a transportation policy developed by the Village to administer the drop off and pick up schedules and parking related to all buses going into the park. The quarterly report for HealthBarn has a transportation report indicating the size of the bus and the number of people on the bus. Ms. Mailander stated that the buses park at the Graydon Pool parking lot unless it is a minibus or a van in which case it parks in the Habernickel Park parking lot for the duration of the field trip. The other question was whether HealthBarn is using space beyond that which is allowed in the lease. HealthBarn is not using space beyond the lease, part of the teaching garden has space available for Ridgewood residents. Ms. Mailander stated that if a vehicle is parked in the parking lot overnight it indicates that the Director is away from the facility, has taken mass transit to her home, or is away at a conference. Ms. Mailander quoted Section H of the lease, that three staff parking spaces shall be allocated to the exclusive use of the tenant in the gatehouse garage driveway. She reiterated that no one has spent an evening there overnight and there is actually no bed in the Gate House.
Ms. Mailander stated that regarding alcohol consumption at the park, the Village of Ridgewood allows the consumption of alcohol in public parks for various events with a one day liquor license. HealthBarn hosts various events where patrons bring in their own alcoholic beverages. No alcohol is provided or served by HealthBarn and Green Acres does not have an objection to this practice. In addition, it should be noted that HealthBarn is a sanctioned program under the auspices of the Parks and Recreation Department and there is consistent communication between HealthBarn staff and the Administration in the Village. This includes the Director of Parks and Recreation and other Village staff included in operations. Ms. Mailander stated that the Director of Parks and Recreation visits and observes the activity at Habernickel Park every workday and most weekends at her leisure since she is a neighbor of the Park. Ms. Mailander added that HealthBarn and their activities have been sanctioned by Green Acres because Habernickel Park was bought with Green Acres money. In addition, HealthBarn is inspected by both the State Health Department and Ridgewood’s Health Department and Green Acres has conducted unannounced site visits at HealthBarn and both entities have always found that HealthBarn is in compliance.
Ms. Mailander stated that effective September 4th, meter times in the Central Business District will be Monday through Friday 9:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. and Saturday 10:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. Meter rates for all meters will be seventy five cents an hour. Duration for all meters will be three hours except for the Cottage Place parking lot which will be eleven hours. There are CBD employee parking spaces in Cottage Place and the Walnut Street lot. There will be evaluations as to whether there should be more or fewer CBD parking spaces over the coming months. The kiosk pilot program will be extended from Chestnut Street to the Cottage Place parking lot and the Cottage Place annex, as well as both sides of North Broad Street. The heads of the meters will be removed and the kiosks will be available, as well as Parkmobile. Effective September 25th, the times in the Train Station and the Park and Ride will be up to a fourteen hour duration from 6:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. Overnight parking is available in select locations for residents living in the CBD, for which permits must be obtained.
- COUNCIL REPORTS
Chamber of Commerce – Councilwoman Walsh stated that at the Chamber of Commerce meeting that morning she was joined by Ms. Mailander and Police Captain Lyons and the focus of the conversation was on updating the Chamber on what has been going on at the Village Council meetings regarding the timing of the parking lots, the kiosks, and an update on the parking garage. The majority of the meeting was on enforcement and how the Chamber fully supports the Village enforcing repeat parking in the Central Business District. Councilwoman Walsh stated that the Police Department would be having a conversation with Ms. Mailander as to how they were going to do that. Additionally, the concern was to how to educate people to get to the lots. She stated that she was going to work with Joan Groome, the Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce, on some cards that will be placed in all of the CBD stores which will educate them on where parking lots are located, so they can have a gentle reminder that they should be thinking about parking in the lot.
Ms. Mailander added that they would be bringing some of the ideas from the Police Department regarding repeat parking to the September 5th Work Session. Mayor Hache asked whether the updated timeline from Epic Management was shared with the Chamber of Commerce. Ms. Mailander responded that they had.
Central Business District Advisory Committee (CBDAC) – Mayor Hache stated that tomorrow morning at 8:30 A.M., the CBDAC meeting will be held. They have invited the CBD landlords to discuss their concerns as commercial property owners, to engage them in a dialogue to see what things the Village can do to work together for the improvement of the CBD.
Planning Board – Mayor Hache stated that the Planning Board met last night and there was the adoption of a resolution approving the courtesy review for the construction of the Granular Activated Carbon Treatment Facility at 205 East Glen Avenue. Also, the resolution recommending the adoption of the ordinance for Blade Signs, which is going to come back to the Council, was also adopted. Mayor Hache added that he was very happy about the blade signs as it would add a lot of life into the downtown.
Site Plan Exemption Committee – Mayor Hache stated that SPEC met twice during the month of July. There were two applications that were reviewed on July 18th, one was for the Quick Stop liquor store on Godwin Avenue, they were looking to place an ice machine on the westward side of the building, which was approved once an issue was cleared up regarding a parking space on that side of the building. The second application was for the Church of God Mission Society on Godwin Avenue. The Church of God was required to place several evergreen trees between the neighbors and the parking lot on the north side, and there were objections from a neighbor regarding the fence that was being erected for screening, as the neighbor would prefer vegetative screening. The second was for lighting at the Church of God and the restriction of hours for lighting on the site plan resolution. There were some concerns for the safety of volunteers making their way back to their cars at 11:00 P.M. This has been referred back to the full Planning Board for guidance on how to proceed, as there was no resolution on the lighting issue.
Mayor Hache stated that SPEC met again on July 21st to review three applications, one for 145 Prospect Street as the applicant was updating the outside, the second was for Bank of America which entailed modification to the parking lot and private sidewalks for handicap access. The third application was for 5 Robinson Lane, where the applicant was creating a performing arts school and needs to provide a means of egress for the second floor. The proposal was for a metal staircase and the recently approved parking lot will not be effected.
- RESOLUTIONS – RIDGEWOOD WATER
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 18-242 THROUGH 18-246, WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:
- ORDINANCES
- INTRODUCTION - #3662 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Parking Meter Times at Train station and Regulate Multi-Space Parking Meter Use
Mayor Hache moved the first reading of ordinance 3662. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3662 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.”
Councilman Sedon moved that ordinance 3662 be adopted on first reading and that September 5, 2018 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
- INTRODUCTION - #3663 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Parking on Overbrook Road
Mayor Hache moved the first reading of ordinance 3663. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3663 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-65, SCHEDULE XV “PARKING PROHIBITED AT ALL TIMES” AND SECTION 265-67, SCHEDULE XVII “PARKING PROHIBITED CERTAIN HOURS.”
Councilman Voigt moved that ordinance 3663 be adopted on first reading and that September 12, 2018 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
- INTRODUCTION - #3664 – Amend Bond Ordinance #3644 – Reappropriation of Funding for Stretchers for EMS
Mayor Hache moved the first reading of ordinance 3664. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3664 by title:
BOND ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTIONS 3(c)(1) AND 3(d) OF BOND ORDINANCE NUMBERED 3644 OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY, FINALLY ADOPTED MAY 19, 2018, IN ORDER TO DECREASE THE APPROPRIATION AND THE AUTHORIZATION OF BONDS AND NOTES IN SECTION 3(c)(1) AND INCREASE THE APPROPRIATION AND AUTHORIZATION OF BONDS AND NOTES IN SECTION 3(d) BY SIMILAR AMOUNTS.
Councilman Sedon moved that ordinance 3664 be adopted on first reading and that September 12, 2018 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
- INTRODUCTION - #3665 – Bond Ordinance – One Hook Lift Body with Accessories – Parks Department (NTE $58,000)
Mayor Hache moved the first reading of ordinance 3665. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3665 by title:
BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE ACQUISITION OF A HOOK LIFT BODY WITH ALL ACCESSORIES FOR THE PARKS DEPARTMENT IN AND BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $58,000 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $55,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE PART OF THE COST THEREOF.
Councilwoman Walsh moved that ordinance 3665 be adopted on first reading and that September 12, 2018 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
- INTRODUCTION - #3666 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Bus Stops
Mayor Hache moved the first reading of ordinance 3666. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3666 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-74, “SCHEDULE XXIV: BUS STOPS.”
Councilwoman Walsh moved that ordinance 3666 be adopted on first reading and that September 12, 2018 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
- INTRODUCTION - #3667 – Amend Chapter 190 – Land Use and Development – Allow Displays in Central Business District
Mayor Hache moved the first reading of ordinance 3667. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3667 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 190 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT, AT SECTION 190-122H TO PERMIT TEMPORARY DISPLAYS IN FRONT OF RETAIL ESTABLISHMENTS.
Councilman Sedon moved that ordinance 3667 be adopted on first reading and that September 12, 2018 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
- INTRODUCTION - #3668 – Amend Chapter 190 – Land Use and Development – Permitted Encroachment of Stairs into Rear Yard
Mayor Hache moved the first reading of ordinance 3668. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3668 by title:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD AMENDING THE PROVISIONS IN CHAPTER 190 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT, CONCERNING THE PERMITTED ENCROACHMENT OF STEPS OR STAIRS IN THE REQUIRED SETBACK.
Councilman Voigt moved that ordinance 3668 be adopted on first reading and that September 12, 2018 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
- INTRODUCTION - #3669 – Amend Chapter 190 – Land Use and Development – Front Yard Setback in the B-1 and B-2 Zone Districts
Mayor Hache moved the first reading of ordinance 3669. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3669 by title:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD AMENDING THE PROVISIONS IN CHAPTER 190, LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT, CONCERNING THE REQUIRED FRONT YARD SETBACK IN THE B-1 AND B-2 DISTRICTS.
Councilwoman Walsh moved that ordinance 3669 be adopted on first reading and that September 12, 2018 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
- PUBLIC HEARING - #3653 – Amend Valet Parking Ordinance
Mayor Hache moved the reading of ordinance 3653 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3653 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 263 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VALET PARKING SERVICES, AT SECTION 263-4, “OPERATING REQUIREMENTS.”
Mayor Hache announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Hache moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Sedon moved that Ordinance 3653 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
- PUBLIC HEARING - #3654 – Amend Chapter 105 – Animals – Establish Position of Municipal Humane Law Enforcement Officer
Mayor Hache moved the reading of ordinance 3654 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3654 by title:
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 105 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, ENTITLED “ANIMALS” TO ESTABLISH A NEW SECTION TO CREATE THE POSITION OF MUNICIPAL HUMANE LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER (MHLEO).
Mayor Hache announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Hache moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Voigt moved that ordinance 3654 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
- PUBLIC HEARING - #3655 – Amend Chapter 244 Smoking
Mayor Hache moved the reading of ordinance 3655 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3655 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 244 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD ENTITLED “SMOKING” TO AMEND THE FOLLOWING SECTIONS: SECTION 244-1 ENTITLED “DEFINITIONS”; SECTION 244-6 ENTITLED “DEFINITIONS”; SECTION 244-7 ENTITLED “USE OR POSSESSION PROHIBITED”; SECTION 244-10 ENTITLED “DEFINITIONS”; SECTION 244-11 ENTITLED “SMOKING PROHIBITED.”
Mayor Hache stated that the Village Council discussed this ordinance, and it has been decided that the regulation of electronic smoking devices will be considered in a separate ordinance, at a later date. Ordinance 3655 will be amended to remove the following wording from the beginning of the ordinance: “Be it ordained by the Village Council of the Village of Ridgewood, County of Bergen, State of New Jersey, that the following new Articles entitled ‘Cannabis Shops’ and “Electronic Vapor Substance Inhalation Shop’ be established as follows:” This is not a substantive change to the ordinance, as it is removing a section that does not pertain to Ordinance 3655. Therefore, it may be considered for adoption, as amended, after the Public Hearing. Mayor Hache asked for a motion to amend Ordinance 3655 by removing this section of the ordinance.
Councilwoman Walsh moved that ordinance 3655 be amended to remove from the beginning of the ordinance the wording indicated by the Mayor. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
Mayor Hache announced that the Public Hearing on ordinance 3655, as amended, was open. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Hache moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
Councilwoman Walsh moved that ordinance 3655, as amended, be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
- PUBLIC HEARING - #3656 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – No Left Turn – In to and Out of the Driveway at 121 Franklin Avenue (Starbucks)
Mayor Hache moved the reading of ordinance 3656 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3656 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-56 SCHEDULE VI “PROHIBITED TURNS AT INTERSECTIONS.”
Mayor Hache announced that the Public Hearing was open.
Rurik Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, stated that he was looking at ordinance 3656 and he wanted to make sure that it was to prohibit people from making a left turn when leaving Starbucks. He felt that this ordinance is not necessary and the Village Council should let people decide what is safe and unsafe. There are so many instances all over Ridgewood of left hand turns out of parking lots, such as the Kings parking lot, and asked why pick on Starbucks.
Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that he was perplexed about this ordinance, as he went around the CBD and he found eleven instances where there are signs that either say a left turn or a right turn into or out of a driveway is prohibited, but he can’t find an ordinance to make it enforceable. He asked why the Village Council was picking on Starbucks. He agreed that there should be no left turn into Starbucks and no left turn out of Starbucks but there doesn’t seem to be any consistency with an ordinance to enforce that. Mr. Loving stated that the TD Bank, located next to Starbucks, has the same situation, and a left turn is allowed out of that location. He agreed that it was a dangerous spot, but he thought that the Engineering Department and/or the Police Department need to go around and identify all of these locations where is it dangerous to make a left or a right turn and get an ordinance adopted so it can be enforced at these various locations.
Mr. Loving stated that Deputy Mayor Knudsen was discussing the Starbucks situation during a Work Session, and it seemed to be that when they received zoning approval it was given on the condition that a sign be erected; however, that information was not passed along to the Village Council so an ordinance was not adopted to match the sign. Mr. Loving stated that he spoke with Mr. Rogers regarding this situation and the possibility of a lawsuit being filed due to the lack of an ordinance. He stated that he passed along his list to the Deputy Mayor, Mr. Rogers, Ms. Mailander, and Captain Amoruso of the Ridgewood Police Department.
There were no additional comments from the public, and Mayor Hache moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
Councilwoman Walsh moved that ordinance 3656 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
- PUBLIC HEARING - #3657 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – No Turn from North Maple Avenue into Exit Driveway of 305 East Ridgewood Avenue (Jersey Mike’s Subs)
Mayor Hache moved the reading of ordinance 3657 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3657 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-56, SCHEDULE VI “PROHIBITED TURNS AT INTERSECTIONS.”
Mayor Hache announced that the Public Hearing was open.
Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, reiterated his comments from the previous ordinance, pointing out that Jersey Mike’s has a sign just before it saying that you cannot make a left turn into the Sealfons exit, but there is no ordinance to match that sign. His suggestion is that someone should look at all of these signs and see what the zoning was for these signs and make sure that there is an ordinance in place for all of the signs.
There were no additional comments from the public, and Mayor Hache moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Sedon moved that ordinance 3657 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
- PUBLIC HEARING - #3658 – Amend Ordinance – Enforcement for Dead/Dangerous Trees
Mayor Hache moved the reading of ordinance 3658 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3658 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 165 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, GARBAGE, RUBBISH, REFUSE AND RECYCLING, AT SECTION 165-15, “METHOD OF SERVICE OF NOTICE; CONTENTS” AND AT SECTION 165-17, “ENFORCEMENT.”
Mayor Hache announced that the Public Hearing was open.
Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, asked why this is an amendment to the Code chapter on garbage, rubbish, refuse and recycling if it is about enforcement for dead/dangerous trees. He asked whether it was about trees or garbage. Ms. Mailander stated that the ordinance was about trees, and that it was located in the garbage section of the Village Code, as a notice for dead or dangerous trees. Mr. Loving asked why it isn’t changed to another Code chapter if it doesn’t make sense. Ms. Mailander stated that she felt that the Village Council can adopt this ordinance and then if they need to move it to another section it can certainly be done.
There were no additional comments from the public, and Mayor Hache moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Voigt moved that ordinance 3658 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
- PUBLIC HEARING - #3659 – Amend Outdoor Café Ordinance – Enforcement of Rules and Regulations
Mayor Hache moved the reading of ordinance 3659 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3659 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 156 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, FOOD AND FOOD HANDLING ESTABLISHMENTS, AT ARTICLE VIII, OUTDOOR CAFES, SECTION 156-92, “ENFORCEMENT.”
Mayor Hache announced that the Public Hearing was open.
Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that posts on social media and comments at the Village Council meetings over the years suggest that violations regarding the outdoor café ordinance occur most frequently in the evening on Saturdays and Sundays. His concern is how many of these people that are added to the list of those that can enforce the ordinance actually come out on a weekend night when most of the offenses are occurring. Unless there are enforcement agents working during the hours when these alleged violations are more likely to occur, it doesn’t do any good.
Mayor Hache stated that schedules had been changed around, and Ms. Mailander added that she was happy to report that over the last four weeks there were enforcement officers out on the weekends twice, most recently this past weekend on Saturday night, and by adding additional enforcement agents, this will happen more frequently. Ms. Mailander added that there have been violations found during the week as well, with extra chairs stacked, or encroachment onto other properties that are closed. There have been close to fifty violations written so far. They are trying to make it safe for pedestrians while also keeping the restaurants in compliance with their outdoor café permits.
There were no additional comments from the public, and Mayor Hache moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Voigt moved that ordinance 3659 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
- PUBLIC HEARING - #3660 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Parking Meter Times
Mayor Hache moved the reading of ordinance 3660 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3660 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 Hache stated that the ordinance, as originally written, indicated that the hours for the parking meters would be Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The Village Council has discussed this, and has decided to make the hours for the parking meters on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., which means that these hours will remain unchanged from what currently exists. This amendment is not a substantive change to the ordinance, as written, so it may be considered for adoption, as amended, after the Public Hearing. At this time, Mayor Hache asked for a motion to amend ordinance 3660.
Councilwoman Walsh moved that ordinance 3660 be amended so that the parking meter hours on Saturday by changed from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and that the number of hours at the meter on Saturdays be changed from 9 hours to 8 hours. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
Mayor Hache announced that the Public Hearing on ordinance 3660, as amended, was open. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Hache moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
Councilwoman Walsh moved that ordinance 3660, as amended, be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
- PUBLIC HEARING - #3661 – Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Parking Meter Fees
Mayor Hache moved the reading of ordinance 3661 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3661 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 145 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, FEES, AT SECTION 145-6, “ENUMERATION OF FEES RELATING TO CODE CHAPTERS.”
Mayor Hache announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Hache moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Sedon moved that ordinance 3661 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Deputy Mayor Knudsen
ABSTAIN: None
- RESOLUTIONS
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 18-247 THROUGH 18-261, WITH THE EXCEPTION OF RESOLUTIONS 18-252, 18-253, AND 18-254, WHICH WILL BE CONSIDERED SEPARATELY, WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 18-252, 18-253, AND 18-254, WERE CONSIDERED SEPARATELY AND READ IN FULL:
Prior to the vote on these resolutions about purchasing Chevrolet pursuit Tahoes for the Police Department as well as furnishing and equipping them, Councilman Voigt stated that he understood that these vehicles were expensive and he also understood why the Police Department needs them. They are going to be paid for out of the capital budget, instead of the operating budget, so it will end up being cheaper for the Village, and as a result he was voting yes.
Councilwoman Walsh stated that she had asked why the Village needed to purchase these pursuit vehicles, and that she had asked for some statistics in the meantime regarding the number of pursuits that the Police Department had to do per year. The results were less than one per year over the last several years. She stated that she owned a Tahoe which is a big, bulky car, and not necessarily suited for pursuit. Councilwoman Walsh stated that the information that was gathered regarding this were that two of the manufacturers were not going to be making the preferred vehicles anymore, but they would still have the ability to buy another sedan, which could be a pursuit vehicle if needed. She feels that they need more patrol cars as opposed to SUVs. She understands that SUVs can be capitalized as opposed to them being in the operating budget. Councilwoman Walsh stated that she was still undecided, so she was going to vote no.
Mayor Hache stated that this triggered a lot of questions and stated that the pursuit package wasn’t necessarily for the purpose of a pursuit but that it was to make the Tahoes more responsive in emergency maneuvers, due to the amount of equipment that they carry. He added that from a fiscal standpoint of being able to capitalize the expense over several years, this is desirable, so he was going to vote yes.
- COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that regarding Ms. Mailander’s comment concerning why Graydon Pool was closed he thinks it was a bad decision as at 9:15 A.M. the sun was out and by 11:00 A.M. it was ninety degrees. There was minor flooding in the parking lot, skies were clear, and this was the second time that this has happened this year. He stated that a decision needs to be made in these instances in the morning that the pool is closed with a provision that it may open later in the afternoon. Mr. Loving stated that an email notice was sent out to the patrons indicating that the pool was going to be closed all day, and some people received the email whereas others did not receive it. He added that he believes that the Village can do a much better job in terms of notifying people when the pool is closed. He sees no reason whatsoever as to why there can’t be a text alert set up so that when the lightening notification goes on, people who subscribe to the text alert also receive a text indicating that the pool is closed. When the pool reopens, someone could send a text message to all of the people who subscribe indicating that the pool is reopened. Mr. Loving stated that the text notification for the lightening detection would also be helpful regarding games played on the fields. He encouraged the Village to get on the ball regarding notifications through various means, stating that not receiving a notice is inexcusable. He asked if technology could be looked into to notify people when the fields or pool are closed.
Rurik Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, asked about disposing of the bulletproof vests and whether there was any chance that they would end up in the wrong hands. He asked when they were disposed of, where the bulletproof vests would go.
Mr. Halaby stated that regarding the bus shelter, at some point it may make sense to have a public bathroom at the bus shelter. He added that at the last meeting there was talk of people relieving themselves at the bus shelter, and perhaps adding a bathroom as they do in Europe, where they pay to use the toilet, would be a good idea.
Mr. Halaby added that the Village’s whole system is so antiquated, as Mr. Loving had stated. He mentioned that when he received a parking ticket, it took a lot of time to resolve, even though he has a parking permit.
Cynthia Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, stated that she had corresponded with Ms. Mailander and she thought that the Train Station parking was on the agenda and that there was discussion, but it was not on this agenda. She asked when someone would find out that something was removed from the agenda. Mayor Hache stated that ideally this would happen much sooner, but the train station item was pulled at the last minute, because they decided to look into a few more things. Councilman Voigt added that it would be on the agenda for September 5th.
Ms. Mailander stated that regarding the bulletproof vests, they will be destroyed and will not be passed on to others or sold. She added that the Village does have a record of who has parking permits, so she was surprised that the Police Department had an issue with confirming that Mr. Halaby has a parking permit. Mr. Halaby added that he had a new car with tinted windows, that was parked at the Train Station, so he came to the Village Hall to get it resolved at the Police Department but the officer had no access to all of the people that have parking permits. Ms. Mailander stated that the reception desk has access to this information, and she added that she would get the word out. Mr. Halaby stated that the police at their desk should have been able to access that information themselves, as well as the individual who issued the tickets. Ms. Mailander added that it was in an excel spreadsheet and that she would get to the bottom of this and find out why the Police Department did not have access to this list, and that she appreciated Mr. Halaby’s comments.
There were no additional public comments.
- RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION
Ms. Mailander read Resolution #18-262 to go into Closed Session as follows:
- ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Voigt, seconded by Councilman Sedon, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Regular Public Meeting was adjourned at 9:25 P.M.
______________________________
Ramon M. Hache, Sr.
Mayor
______________________________
Heather A. Mailander
Village Manager/Village Clerk
- Hits: 2404