20190130 Village Counciil 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 30, 2019 AT 7:30 P.M.

 

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

Mayor Hache called the meeting to order at 7:30 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. At roll call the following were present: Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, and Mayor Hache.  Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; and Donna Jackson, Deputy Village Clerk.  Councilwoman Walsh was absent.  Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney arrived at 7:34 P.M.

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.

2. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

Rurik Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, stated that the Village website has been spoken about for four years, and he realizes it has had a facelift but it needs to be redone from scratch. He looked at the Franklin Lakes website, which is far better than ours. He emailed Greg Hart, the Manager of Franklin Lakes, and apparently it took $5,000 for them to set it up and $1,000 per year for maintenance. He added that the developer is a company called GovOffice, that specializes in setting up websites for municipal governments. Mr. Halaby added that Ridgewood has many talented people that could be asked to serve on an advisory committee that would work with the talented people at Village Hall and GovOffice to come up with a website we would all be proud of. He added that he emailed the Franklin Lakes Manager, who responded in twenty-three minutes.

Mr. Halaby stated that he saw on the agenda there would be discussion about a stop sign at Gilbert and Hope, adding that we need one there. He added that they also need a four way stop sign at the intersection of Ridgewood Avenue and Broad Street, as people heading west on Ridgewood Avenue go right through the intersection, and it is an accident waiting to happen. He added that he had a big debate with the Village Engineer who says that people don’t obey four way stop signs; but he thinks that’s crazy as they are all over the country.

Joseph Alvaro, Gilbert Street, stated that he attended the meeting regarding his concern about traffic on Gilbert Street across Hope, because there is no way for cars to slow down. He stated that if they could get the stop sign placed there, he would appreciate it.

Shayan Farooqi, Gilbert Street, stated that he was a lifelong Ridgewood resident, and is a disability attorney and has seen what speed does. He stated that a stop sign at the intersection of Hope and Gilbert would be very effective.

A Gilbert Street resident, stated that the stop sign that is now on the Hope Street side has made a huge difference, and he thanked the Council for putting in that stop sign. He added that heading west towards Maple Avenue is a downward slope and people speed.

A Gilbert Street resident, stated that she was involved in an accident when she was crossing the street. She added that there are signs at Spring and Maple and the people by-pass that sign using Hope Street to Gilbert, so they speed down the street but there are kids playing.

Frank Mortimer, 426 Van Buren, stated that he was here for the beekeeping regulations, as during the 2014 to 2015 Legislative Session, legislation was passed to encourage and enable beekeeping throughout the state, and then the Department of Agriculture was charged with developing regulations that would support the law and then things got derailed. He added, that last year he spoke to the Council to ask that Ridgewood oppose the regulations. Then over 40 towns followed Ridgewood in opposing the regulations. The Department of Agriculture has overhauled the regulations which are a lot better, but there are a few points that would prevent beekeeping throughout most of the state.

Mr. Mortimer stated that there was a sentence in the document that said it would be unlawful for any beekeepers keep any hives in such a manner as it poses a direct threat to public health and safety. There are no definitions, explanations, or limits, which needs to be removed because there are no specifics as to what you can and cannot do. He added that a Council could easily decide that it poses a public threat and there would be no more bees in Ridgewood. Right now, there are more beekeepers in Ridgewood than any other municipality in Bergen County.

Mr. Mortimer added that there is another line in the document that is a direct impact on Ridgewood. It states that on a quarter of an acre of woods, you can keep bees, but it didn’t have the words “or less,” so that needs to be rewritten as well. He added that he hoped the Village Council would support this and set the standard for the rest of New Jersey.

Jane Remis, 118 Madison Place, stated that as drivers, we have all seen pedestrians do dangerous things such as students crossing the street without even looking up from their phones or nearly invisible people are crossing in front of you in the dark, and people rushing across the street midblock. That’s not mentioning the drivers who rush through intersections and make turns without awareness for pedestrians. An average of 24 pedestrians are struck in Ridgewood every year, and she added that everyone needs reminders to use their knowledge and common sense.

Ms. Remis stated that in 2012, the Home School Association got together and distributed Stop, Look and Wave pamphlets to all children in Ridgewood as part of the Pedestrian Safety Campaign. That was seven years ago, and it was time to introduce Stop, Look, and Wave to a new generation of students. She stated that left turning cars account for 75% of pedestrian accidents. Ms. Remis stated that she was working with a committee called the Safe Streets Action Task Force, which came out of Citizen Safety. So, they are trying to target every driver and pedestrian in town through information in local organization emails, web pages, and signage, and hopefully will have Stop, Look and Wave magnets printed through funding from the HSA this spring. She added that so far, they have endorsements from Citizen Safety, the Ridgewood Police Department, Board of Education, and they would love to get the support of the Village Council, as well, to let everyone know that Ridgewood is a pedestrian friendly town.

Claude Bienstock, 39-11B Broadway, Fair Lawn, stated that for the last twenty years he has been a trustee of Alliance Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse of Fair Lawn. The opioid crisis is a serious crisis, and he doesn’t have all the answers, but he urged the Village Council to continue the work they are doing and supporting all of the efforts that are being made to prevent our young people from using drugs and underage drinking and cigarette smoking. There have been too many people who have died through opiod addiction, which is a serious problem that isn’t going away. He added that every city has to face this problem, and he urged the Village Council to get the word out and continue to urge students not to experiment with drugs as it is a dangerous path. Mr. Bienstock added that he supports what law enforcement is doing, and it is a difficult problem. He stated that he is opposed to the legalization of marijuana, as it sends a wrong message to people that it is okay to smoke marijuana. He also encouraged the Village to be a Stigma Free Community.

Joanne Ricci, from Raymond’s, 101 East Ridgewood Avenue, stated that she saw on the agenda that there would be discussion about regulating deliveries in the business district. She added that she has heard what is being proposed, and the reality is that a lot of it is not in the businesses’ control. If they are going to be expected to have deliveries before they are open, and in their case they open at 8:00 A.M., it is not possible for deliveries to come before opening. She added that they have a driver who picks up deliveries for them from a location that doesn’t open until 7:00 A. M. Ms. Ricci added that a lot of deliveries are coming to them from New York. She appreciates how this is a consideration, and she has driven through town when trucks are a problem, adding that she would love to find a solution for it, but she didn’t think there was a way that it could be fair to business owners.

Gary Kolesaire, from The Tobacco Shop, stated that they have been in town for 40 years, and added that parking issues due to food deliveries is a problem. He added that outside his store, trucks can park there for three to four hours, and behind the truck is the fifteen minute parking spot, which is blocked when they unload. Sometimes a second truck will also pull up to make deliveries, creating more traffic and obstacles for drivers. Mr. Kolesaire stated that the other day there was a truck parked in the loading zone, using the fifteen minute parking spot. Another food delivery truck rode up Ridgewood Avenue, past Chestnut Street, stopped, backed up, and drove backwards to park in front of the truck in the delivery zone to deliver his food. He added that Chestnut Street, Oak and Walnut all have these problems. He spoke with Phil from Kilwins, who told him they had an issue where a big truck parked and delivered his goods. After they received a complaint from a retailer, they parked at the end of Walnut Street, in front of the Getty Station, and the trucker walked it up the street, which was his solution to the issue.

Mr. Kolesaire stated that while he thought delivery at night would be a great solution; however, Tim from Stella gets vegetables or food in, and apparently some of that comes in damaged and gets returned right away. He added that they all have to do business, but his feeling is that if they can put a meeting together with the CBD Board to get the restaurants in to find a way to resolve this problem and work together on this.

Michael Elias, Ice Cream by Mike, 305 East Ridgewood Avenue, reiterated the comments regarding controlling the purveyors and when they deliver. He added that having deliveries before his store opened would be difficult to accommodate, as his purveyors come from the Bronx and asking for an earlier schedule would be difficult. He stated that there may be a solution such as designated parking areas. He added that any penalties to the vendors would also be a burden, as they would be paying for the purveyor which they really can’t control.

Andrew Lowry, 441 Hawthorne Place, stated that he was there on behalf of the Shade Tree Commission and he forwarded the Village Council a letter from the Mayor of Princeton regarding bill S2505 that has passed the Assembly, and is now before the Senate. It has to do with utilities management of vegetation, including trees, bushes, and anything that is in the way of the utility. He stated that he also received a letter from Shade Tree Commissioners who are opposed to this law. The law, if passed as written, gives utility companies the right to do whatever they want with a tree, branch or vegetation. Mr. Lowry stated that this was a very bad idea, as they don’t always do it with the care that most people would like to see. This law would give them authority to declare dangerous vegetation and it can’t be challenged. He added that it doesn’t require them to have an expert arborist making determinations. There is no opportunity for the private property owner to get their point of view heard. Mr. Lowry stated that they have contacted Senator Corrado, but he wanted to make sure that the Village Council was aware of it.

There were no additional comments from the public.

Mayor Hache stated that regarding the truck’s deliveries, the ordinance would only speak to on-street deliveries because they are creating certain hazards to taking up valuable parking spaces. He added that it was just a discussion tonight, and they would continue to receive feedback. He notified the Guild and the Chamber that the Village Council would be discussing this tonight and he wanted to make sure that if something is done, it’s done the right way.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that Ridgewood is a Stigma Free Community, adding that they were one of the early communities in the County to adopt that resolution. She added that Dawn Cetrulo heads that initiative. She stated that regarding the website, a number of months ago and over the years, they have organized a group of folks that got together and looked at numerous municipalities’ websites and how they could optimize across multiple platforms so everyone had the best visual experience. She added that they are very proud of that, and added that the website is very visual and user-friendly. They have met weekly to work through some of the issues and update everything.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that the sunshine transparency binders the Village Council has worked to put together, include documents that are provided to the Village Councilmembers. These are in the binders so people can follow along and understand what they are talking about and what kind of actions they are taking. These were put together as an initiative to be transparent so people understand the meetings. It came to their attention recently that an observer may have removed some documents from the transparency binder. She stated that this is a courtesy and she hopes people will continue to use the transparency binders, but if there are people taking things out or removing them from the table where other residents can’t access, they will have to discontinue the program.

Mayor Hache stated that a gentlemen was having a difficult time contacting a Committee-member, and it came to the attention of the Village Council that there wasn’t contact information for the committees, which is now on the website. The liaison for each of the committees is now on the website, also.

3. MANAGERS REPORT

2019 First Quarter Property Taxes – Ms. Mailander stated that she wanted to remind everyone that the 2019 first quarter property taxes are due February 1^st. There is a ten day grace period, and they are due in the Tax Collectors office no later than Monday, February 11^th. A postmark is not acceptable, and it has to be received by that date. It can be mailed to the Tax Collector in Village Hall, or dropped in the yellow mailbox located at the main entrance by the lobby door. She added that you may also pay taxes online at www.ridgewoodnj.net. Ms. Mailander stated that office hours are 8:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M.

Meet the Mayor – Ms. Mailander stated that Mayor Hache would meet with residents on an appointment-only basis on Saturday, February 9^th, from 9:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. She encouraged interested individuals to contact the Village Clerk’s Office to make an appointment. If there are no scheduled appointments, the session will be rescheduled to the next month.

Jamboree – Ms. Mailander stated that Jamboree is an annual fundraiser supporting scholarships for graduates of Ridgewood High School. The program is an original show that includes parents singing and dancing. February 6^th is the dress rehearsal which is free to the public, and the 7^th, 8^th and 9^th at Ben Franklin Middle School. She added that the Senior Bus would be taking a group to the dress rehearsal on Wednesday evening, February 6^th and residents could call the Village Manger’s office if they would like a ride.

GovDeals – Ms. Mailander stated that the Village continues to use GovDeals to auction trucks and equipment that it no longer needs. Last week they sold one truck and a piece of asphalt equipment for a total of $15,000.

Ridgewood Events – Ms. Mailander stated that tomorrow night is the last night of Restaurant Week, sponsored by the Valley Hospital and the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce. It is a prix fixe menu at various restaurants for $30.19.

4. COUNCIL REPORTS

 

Ridgewood Environmental Advisory Committee / The Green Team – Councilman Sedon stated that REAC and The Green Team would meet February 19^th at 7:00 P.M. to discuss various sustainable elements to Master Planning with NV5 as part of the Visioning Process to the new Master Plan that will be written in the future.

Shade Tree Commission – Councilman Sedon stated on February 20^th there will be a Shade Tree Commission meeting at 7:30 P.M.

Ridgewood Arts Council – Councilwoman Knudsen stated that the Ridgewood Arts Council set March 12^th from 6:30 P.M. to 7:30 P.M. at the Ridgewood Upper Tennis Club for their next artist talk featuring Dana Glaser who is the Producer, Writer, and Director for ‘A Case of the Blue,’ which is mostly filmed in Ridgewood. She added that he is a member of the Ridgewood Arts Council, so they were excited that he agreed to do the artist talk.

Community Access Network – Councilwoman Knudsen stated that they met last week and discussed a number of issues and concerns facing the special needs community, especially and including housing. She added that they took an interest in the Settlement Agreement and how that is proceeding, so hopefully that will be wrapped up and there will be some comfort level with the Access Committee.

Jamboree – Councilwoman Knudsen stated that Jamboree is one of the best programs in Ridgewood, as she has been volunteering for almost a decade and every year they raise money that goes to students of Ridgewood High School who would otherwise not be able to attend college or afford the college of their choice. It fundraises through the sale of journal ads, and the students and parents are grateful for the opportunities that otherwise would not be afforded to them.

Mayor Hache added that Jamboree has donated over a million dollars in scholarships since it was formed. Councilwoman Knudsen stated that these are need-based scholarships, and students apply for them.

Community Center Advisory Board – Councilman Voigt stated that they met on January 24^th at The Stable, and some of the participants in Age Friendly stated that there are several presentations on aging in place coming up. One is on April 30^th by Ashton Applewhite, who wrote a book on ‘This Age Rocks’ at 7:30 P.M. at the library. He stated that Age Friendly had asked the Village to look into putting some sidewalks at Ridgecrest near the train station.

Councilman Voigt stated that Tom Lewis, the RHS representative to the Community Center Advisory Board spoke on behalf of the Civic Youth Corps, and in March there is going to be a Civics Quiz Bowl that the Village Council is invited to. There will also be a Cook-Off for Cancer at the Healthbarn, and there is an RHS Film Festival that is upcoming as well.

Councilman Voigt added that the Community Center Advisory Board did ask for some updates on the Departments and Committees that are on the website. Parks and Recreation, Athletic Facilities, Shade Tree and Conversation Boards needed to be update. He added that they also talked about the phone system at The Stable, and getting that connected to Village Hall, as well as an inability to leave messages.

Ridgewood Arts Foundation – Councilman Voigt stated that he had the opportunity to attend the Ridgewood Arts Foundation annual event this Sunday, at Park West. The Foundation does a tremendous amount of promoting and providing resources throughout Ridgewood. This year’s honorees included Kristen Plumley for her work in promoting music in Ridgewood schools, Gene Thomas, and Reverend Mac Brandon and the Connection.

North Jersey Masters Award Ceremony – Mayor Hache stated that it was a great event and he was amazed at the distance some of these runners are covering.

Master Plan – Mayor Hache stated that on February 13^th there will be two round table discussions with NV5, one of the commercial property owners in town, and the other from realtors, as part of continued effort to build this collective vision of what we want Ridgewood to be in the future.

Mayor Hache stated that this is the 125^th anniversary of the Village of Ridgewood on November 20^th, and he suggested they come up with a way to celebrate this momentous occasion.

Ms. Mailander stated that the Village tried for grants twice, for sidewalks at Ridgecrest, and currently they have submitted for Safe Routes to Transit, and she doesn’t believe they have heard back about that grant, yet. She added that at Parks and Recreation, you can leave messages, and regarding a connection between The Stable and Village Hall, she would look into it further.

5. PRESENTATION

1. PSE&G – Tree Trimming Project

 

Guy Voigt, stated that he was a state licensed certified tree expert with PSE&G, and he has a staff of twenty individuals with five or six of them being state licensed as tree experts. He added that they supervise the line clerks throughout the state. He supervises Hudson and Bergen County, called the Palisades Division, of 65 municipalities. Mr. Voigt stated that he has been with the company for 33 years, and 27 of them as a certified tree expert. He added that he was there to talk about routine maintenance, which he does with every municipality. They have two substations that feed Ridgewood, one by the old inspection station, and the other at the Hopper Switch off of Hopper Avenue in Waldwick. They will be working on both of those stations this year, starting the work at the Ridgewood substation.

Mr. Voigt stated that prior to them coming into town, they meet with the Police Department to put them on board with traffic control. He added that they work a lot with the Shade Tree and Parks Department on hazardous trees they need some help removing, and they go out and preplan the whole job, speak to the customers, and give residents information with the private trees. He added that with the town trees, they don’t have to notify residents because they have already spoken to the Shade Tree and Parks Department.

Mr. Voigt stated that regarding the legislation, he read about it and he believes it is only on removal of trees and has nothing to do with pruning and he believes they want the right to go on private property and to take trees down. He added that they don’t take trees down unless they are assisting a municipality or a customer’s private contractor when they have a tree that they want to remove. If he identifies a hazardous tree, he will notify the resident or the municipality, but PSE&G doesn’t blanketly take trees down. He reiterated that this is routine maintenance which is done every four years, where they start in Woodcliff Lake and work to Bayonne in that period.

Mayor Hache asked if the door hanger would be left if PSE&G spotted a problem as a courtesy. Mr. Voigt stated that if they trimmed a tree as part of normal routine maintenance, they would leave a door hanger.

Councilman Sedon asked how long Lewis had been the contractor used by PSE&G. Mr. Voigt stated that it had been about five years. Councilman Sedon stated that they came through last time, four years ago. He asked if they would be doing the streets again. Mr. Voigt stated that the substations cover most of Ridgewood, and that there is one area near Paramus that comes out of New Milford which would be done next year. Councilman Sedon asked if Mr. Voigt knew on average how many hazardous trees they might take down. Mr. Voigt stated that PSE&G is responsible for the ten to fifteen feet away from the conductors to make it safe, unless they are asked to by the Shade Tree and Parks Department, or if a customer needs assistance with a tree that they are taking down. Mr. Voigt added that he would like to attend the Shade Tree Commission meeting if Councilman Sedon could provide him with the date.

Councilwoman Knudsen asked where the door hangers would be used. Mr. Voigt stated that their pre-planner from Lewis Tree follows his map and goes to private customers to leave the tag on the door which is his card. So, if someone calls him, he will go out and take a look.

Ms. Mailander asked when Mr. Voigt anticipated starting in Ridgewood. Mr. Voigt stated that they are working their way back from Glen Rock, and he anticipated, hopefully, starting next week. He added that there might be pieces in other municipalities, but he would do all that at one time and then move back into this area.

Andrew Lowry, 441 Hawthorne, stated that they have had presentations before from PSE&G, but his point was directed at the legislation which applies to more than PSE&G, but all utilities. It gives them more authority than they have now in that they wouldn’t have to consult with the Village arborist or the Parks and Shade Tree Department if they wanted to do some of the work. He added that the bill was passed in the Assembly, so it must have been supported by some group. He stated that his one request is that when the crews go out and cut branches that are effecting wires, that they also cut branches that are effecting the trees. He added that there are trees with dead branches that are below the wires that are left there, which then lead to dead trees over the years unless they are dealt with. Mr. Lowry added that they have been working hard to plant and replace trees that have been taken down, so all help they could give as they are up in the tree already would be appreciated. He added that he would appreciate the opportunity to talk to Mr. Voigt in a meeting as well.

Mr. Voigt stated that the tree trimming isn’t just for PSE&G, but also for the safety and reliability of the customers. What they are trimming is really involved with the wire, but he doesn’t know if they are really responsible for what is required beyond the scope of the work. He added that tree trimming is a costly operation to everyone, so they need to focus mostly on what is in the conductors. If there are dead limbs that would come down from above the wire and cause an outage they would take care of that.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that it was a great point, and she appreciated that they were witnessing the dead branch but were choosing to ignore it for the purposes of cost issues, and so that has to be left below the wires to rest. She asked if there was some kind of a form or document that could be generated that identifies the tree and location and where they are witnessing an issue. Then, at least the Village could address it, or perhaps there could be some kind of shared service that could be arranged to address that.

Mr. Voigt stated that they work along with the Parks Department and if they do see something that is going to be a problem outside of the scope of what they need to do, they are reporting that to the Parks Department. He added that with 65 municipalities, that is a lot of tree work, and they are trying to keep it affordable to the customer also.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she heard what Mr. Voigt was saying but wondered if there was a safer, more expedient way to address that. Mr. Voigt stated that they have been in positions where they do something like that and then people ask why they did that to the tree, so they walk a fine line. If a resident calls, or if the Parks Department calls, they will take a look at it and do the best they can to work with the resident.

Councilwoman Knudsen asked procedurally, how PSE&G would report a dead limb to the Parks Department that they observe. Mr. Voigt stated that they work through Declan, and would call him. He added that they speak frequently.

Mayor Hache stated that it is a lot of municipalities and he assumes that they have been able to negotiate a very competitive rate in terms of what PSE&G is charged for removing the trees. He asked if there was any chance of passing that on to the homeowners in case they have a line that is compromised and the homeowner asks to remove it at their rate. Mr. Voigt stated that the problem with that is that the contractor is only geared for trimming, and they don’t have log trucks and stump machines. He added that they can’t charge a customer for removal, but are there for safety reasons bound by state regulations, the High Voltage Proximity Act, to keep that corridor clear so no one gets hurt. He added that they never venture into wholesale to remove the tree. Mayor Hache stated that since they were already in contact with the contractor could they pass on the rate. Mr. Voigt stated that the contractor doesn’t do private work, as they are a utility line clearance contractor. He added that they do work with other large vendors, but they don’t do full-scale removals on their own.

Mr. Voigt stated that regarding taking down a private tree, the insurance involved would be costly, which is why he doesn’t think they would be interested in going onto someone’s property to take a tree down as the legislation before the senate is suggesting.

 

1. DISCUSSION

1. Ridgewood Water

 

1. Award Contract – Pipe, Appurtenances and Service Materials

 

Ms. Mailander stated that on February 14^th of last year, the Village awarded a two year contract for the provision of Pipes, Appurtenances and Service Materials. The bid is awarded by low bid per category and the lowest unit price for fire hydrants; this resulted in five different vendors being awarded the contract. This is budgeted for in the Water Utility operating budget, in a total amount not to exceed $225,000.

 

2. Award Change Order – Distribution Improvements and Lakeview Extension Study

 

Ms. Mailander stated that this project was for evaluation of water mains replacements or cleaning and lining in two locations, one at Beechwood Road in Ridgewood, and one on Linwood and Myrtle Avenues in Midland Park. The existing old water mains were causing dirty water in the distribution system. Suburban Engineers is the consulting design engineer of record who is performing the construction administration and part time inspection of the installation of the new water mains. This is a request for Change Order No. 3 in the amount of $7,486. Change Orders Numbers 1 and 2 have already been approved. This is required for engineering charges for construction administration and inspection and has resulted from contractor delays. Ms. Mailander added that the two fees for increasing under Change Order No. 2 and Change Order No. 3 which totals $12,286 will be deducted from the payment to the contractor because they caused the delays.

 

3. Declare Property Surplus – Two John Deere Backhoes

 

Ms. Mailander stated that these two John Deere backhoes have surpassed their useful life and are being used as a trade-in for a 2018 loader backhoe.

 

4. Award NJPA Co-Op Contract – Purchase of Backhoe Loader

 

Ms. Mailander stated that this is for the purchase of a Caterpillar Model Backhoe Loader under the National Joint Powers Alliance Program. The repairs on the 2005 John Deere backhoe exceed the vehicle’s present value. Necessary repairs on the 2005 John Deere are estimated to be $59,504,79 which could increase during disassembly and inspection. The second backhoe loader is a 1998 John Deere valued at $12,500 and the 2005 is valued at $20,000. There was a trial period of three months at $12,600 which will be applied as a credit towards the purchase of the new John Deere, so the overall purchase price is $95,552. The purchase is from Foley Incorporated of Piscataway. Funds are in the Water Capital Budget.

 

5. Award Contract – SCADA Software Support

 

Ms. Mailander stated that Emerson Process Management Power & Water Solutions is the supplier of the software for the SCADA system which allows utility operators to communicate, control, and record the equipment and resulting data points within the water system. The contract is for a three year period, subject to annual renewals. This is a total contract price of $56,768.91, billed in increments of $18,922.97 per year and allocated in the Water Operating Budget.

 

6. Authorize Cancellation of Property Taxes – 451 Goffle Road

 

Ms. Mailander stated that the Village purchased 451 Goffle Road in December 2018, so this resolution was to remove the property from the tax rolls. The 2018 taxes were $5,691.74, with a portion of that being cancelled and then the property will be listed as exempt for the 2020 tax year and forward.

 

7. Award Professional Services Contract – Hydrogeologic Consulting Services

 

Ms. Mailander stated that this is a proposal from WSP USA to provide professional services to Ridgewood Water in connection with the Capital Improvement Program Well Maintenance and Testing Programs. WSP’s services are necessary to support the task order consultants that are providing services for Ridgewood Water’s wells and treatment systems. WSP, the selected task order consultant, and Ridgewood Water will work as a team to plan, design and oversee rehabilitation and new well construction projects. This includes such tasks as replacement well drilling, well repairs, treatment plans, production plans and general services to assist with regulatory compliance and emerging contaminants. Mr. Calbi is recommending the award to WSP, U.S.A. of Upper Saddle River in the amount not to exceed $167,500 per year. The funds are available in the Water Utility Operating Budget.

 

1. Budget

 

1. Award Professional Services – 2019 Tax Assessment Map

 

Ms. Mailander stated that Daniel Dunn of Dunn Surveying and Mapping is hired annually to provide Professional Land Surveying services on retainer. He has provided this service successfully for the Village for the past twenty years. This amount is $1,700 and the retainer provides the Village with a New Jersey Professional Land Surveyor to endorse our tax maps and provides the license coverage for the survey work the staff of the Engineering Division prepares for various construction projects and regulatory submittals. The retainer is a fixed fee and does not have hours billed against it. Pay to Play requirements do not pertain to this as it is below the threshold.

Mayor Hache asked how the Village ends up with the same surveyor for the past twenty years. Ms. Mailander stated that it is a professional service so they have gone to him and have been happy with his pricing and work.

Mr. Rogers stated that over the twenty years he has a familiarity with the Village in getting things done and a good working relationship with the Engineering Department.

 

2. Deferred School Tax Resolution

 

Ms. Mailander stated that this is an annual resolution, consistent with the annual process which began in the 1980s. The resolution will allow for the maximum deferral which is the most favorable position to take since it increases the Village fund balance account and will help offset any restrictions from reserve accounts which may arise from 2018 financial operations.

 

3. 2018 Appropriation Reserve Transfers

 

Ms. Mailander stated that this transfers money from the 2018 budget from Departments which have extra funds to Departments which need additional funding for expenses which were incurred in 2018.

 

4. Declare Property Surplus – Police Department Vehicle and Miscellaneous Equipment

 

Ms. Mailander stated that the Police Department has several items including a 2007 Ford Crown Victoria, where the necessary repairs exceed the value of the vehicle. A document shredder was malfunctioning and has been replaced by a hand-me-down shredder from the Finance Department. They have a lot of Pelco monitors, DVRs, and Vicon cameras which were replaced by the new security system and have imbedded memory and will be destroyed, PR-24 batons that are no longer used or issued by the Police Department, and an old metal first aid cabinet which was replaced. There are 53 individual LED lights and light bars that were removed from old vehicles and are no longer used on the new police vehicles. There are some computer docks for computers no longer used in vehicles by the Police Department. There are siren controllers and speakers that were previously used for parts, a uniden scanner that was removed from a police vehicle and is no longer used, as well as a digital camera that uses floppy discs and is obsolete and unusable.

 

5. Establish 2019 Sewer Fees for Significant Dischargers

 

Ms. Mailander stated that the Village has an ordinance that establishes a fee structure based upon equivalent dwelling units for commercial/industrial minor and significant dischargers to the Village’s sanitary sewage collection system. Non-profits and tax-exempt properties are billed for the sewage treatment services they receive. The rate was set at $4.27 per 1,000 gallons of flow in excess of 109,500 gallons per year discharged from commercial/non-profit properties as measured by water meter consumption during the two winter quarters for 2018. After examining our operating costs, the Village Engineer has recommended that the current rate be maintained at $4.27 per 1,000 gallons for 2019.

 

1. Policy

 

1. Beekeeping Regulations

 

Ms. Mailander stated that any objections or comments are due by February 1^st so if the Village Council is inclined to think they could send a letter from the Mayor on behalf of the Village and the Village Council. Mayor Hache stated that the burden of proof issue as it relates to a public safety threat is something that is worth pushing back on, and the language was very confusing and ambiguous about the quarter acre. He added that it needed to be tweaked and he was happy to write a letter. Mr. Mortimer stated that when they released the new regulations they had to address all the comments from last year, and in there it talks about legislators and based on prior feedback that was a motivator for them and the letter from Mayor Hache would do a lot.

Councilwoman Knudsen asked Mr. Mortimer how many beekeepers they had in town now. Mr. Mortimer stated that at last count there were fifteen.

Mayor Hache stated that he learned from Mr. Mortimer that the bees huddle into a ball and rotate, and have an internal temperature in the nineties.

 

2. Revive Stop, Look and Wave Campaign

 

Ms. Mailander stated that at this point, the Village Council could do a resolution supporting the Stop, Look and Wave campaign if that was something they were interested in. The Village Council was in agreement. Mayor Hache stated that it was seven years ago and it was definitely time to bring the campaign back as we can’t talk enough about safety.

 

3. Resolution Opposing Meadowlands Power Plant

 

Ms. Mailander stated that she received an email from the Meadowlands Coalition about a subsidiary of Mitsubishi who is proposing to build a $1.5 billion natural gas-fired power plant in North Bergen, about thirteen miles from Ridgewood. According to the email, all of the power would be used in New York, and New Jersey would receive the pollution. NJDEP has already issued wetlands and flood hazard permits for this project and is now reviewing the applicant’s Air Quality permit. This plant would be one of the largest sources of air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions in New Jersey, will emit tons of pollutants annually, and exposure to these pollutants is linked to various diseases. The American Lung Association stated that the air in 2018 shows that Bergen and Hudson Counties already have ratings of F for ozone pollution and have significant populations for pediatric and adult asthmas, as well as other diseases, which would only be exacerbated by this plant. The DEP does not control ozone in the form of air pollution, and they are allowed to buy ozone credits from defunct power plants and are already in the process of purchasing credits from plants in New York.

The Coalition understands they expect the permits will be approved, and are asking the Village to pass a resolution in opposition of this as the Governor and DEP have several tools they can use to regulate emissions. Ms. Mailander stated that over 34 municipalities in Bergen County have adopted the opposing resolution and there are more every day. Air pollution is an invisible silent killer, and in order to protect each other, they are requesting that all of the surrounding municipalities pass this resolution.

Councilman Voigt asked why they were building the plant. Ms. Mailander stated that it was to provide electricity for New York City.

Councilman Sedon read a statement from the Ridgewood Environmental Advisory Committee and the Green Team stating there was an event tonight so the members could not attend this meeting in person. Bob Upton, and Justin Manger, asked him to make a statement regarding the proposed resolution opposing the construction of the North Bergen Liberty Power Plant as submitted to the Village Council for adoption. He read that the only benefits would be the supply of electricity to customers in New York and some financial benefits to the local and New Jersey communities. Thirty-seven towns, so far, have passed resolutions similar to the one that REAC is proposing saying no to this power plant. They respectfully request that the Village Council pass their resolution.

Councilman Voigt asked if they were replacing anything or just building a new plant. Mr. Rogers stated they were building a new plant. Councilman Sedon added they shut down one of the reactors at the Indian Point Nuclear Power Plant.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that another municipality sent this to the Village a couple of months ago, and after reading the whole document, she felt they should vigorously oppose this power plant. She added it was a fragile area.

Ms. Mailander stated they would have a resolution at the next public meeting.

1. Operations

 

1. Regulating Deliveries in the Commercial Business District

 

Ms. Mailander stated that she met with Sergeant Chuck and Chief Lutchke and they indicated that they would prefer there are no deliveries allowed, during the time frame of 10:00 A.M. to 10:00 P.M. She added that they would also like a weight limit of 18,000 pounds for the trucks that are parked on the street. Councilwoman Knudsen asked what size truck that would be, and Ms. Mailander stated that it would be bigger than a small box truck. Ramsey limits it from 8:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M., and she added that the smaller trucks are able to park in a space and pay the meter, so they are not blocking spaces and the Village isn’t losing revenue.

Mayor Hache stated that Ramsey passed this and 8:00 A.M. seems a bit drastic, while 10:00 A.M. to 10:00 P.M. is what the Police Department is suggesting. He added that he wanted to talk to the businesses to get a better sense of what would be realistic in terms of scheduling and maybe think about what streets can be off limits, even if it takes walking with a hand truck an extra block. He added that they would talk to the businesses to see what the best way to go about it would be.

Councilman Sedon stated that maybe you wouldn’t want trucks parked on East Ridgewood Avenue, but then there is trouble on the side streets too. So, maybe there would be a designated spot that is the safest, because a blanket ban on deliveries from 10:00 A.M. to 10:00 P.M. could be exceedingly onerous.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that when the Board of Adjustments was discussing times for deliveries to businesses, they learned that the convenience store had multiple deliveries throughout the day and she has to presume that these restaurants also have multiple deliveries. She added it was important for the Village Council to better understand the number of deliveries businesses have and how they may be tying the hands of businesses if they limit the deliveries. She stated that maybe there is a better solution as far as a delivery space and a mechanism to transport goods as this can be a business killer.

Mr. Rogers stated that he felt they should talk to Ramsey as they have a very narrow street with a railroad crossing. Councilwoman Knudsen added that East Ridgewood Avenue has a lot of activity, and she agrees they need to address it without sacrificing the abilities of businesses to function.

Councilman Voigt stated that he was in agreement. Mayor Hache added that CBDAC was going to come up with a survey for the retailers and restaurants to get a sense of the logistics behind the deliveries and their frequency. They will try to come up with a solution that makes sense with those parameters.

 

2. Stop Signs at Gilbert Street and Hope Street

 

Ms. Mailander stated that in 2017 the Village Council adopted an ordinance to change yield intersection signs to stop signs on Hope Street in both directions of travel at the intersection of Gilbert Street. They had a request to have a four way stop, and the Village Engineer has said they should look at the accident data. Sergeant Chuck has looked at that and decided it didn’t warrant a stop sign on Gilbert but they could do a speed study for approximately a week and then do a search of relevant accident history for the intersection.

Mayor Hache stated that it is a steep slope and people pick up velocity on the way down. The stop sign at Hope has helped with the traffic on Hope but hasn’t don’t anything for the traffic on Gilbert. He added this was discussed at Citizens Safety Advisory Committee (CSAC).

Councilman Voigt stated that the opinion of CSAC was that they should put a stop sign there. He added that there are five concerned residents coming here tonight as well, and they should strongly consider putting a stop sign there. Ms. Mailander added that they don’t have many four way stops in Ridgewood as they get confusing. She added that they could do the speed study to get more data and then come back before the Village Council.

Mayor Hache stated that he didn’t know what the speed study would do, as residents are saying there is a problem and his observation is that it is a problem and he’s not sure what they would get out of the study. He added that visibility traveling south on Hope Street isn’t very good.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that they had this conversation at the corner of Kenilworth and Spring and there was a request for a four way stop, but there was something in the statute that stated you couldn’t do a four way stop. Mr. Rogers stated there is a guideline that talks about what types of intersections can have four way stops. Councilwoman Knudsen stated that her opinion is that the residents know best, and she also agrees that the four way stop signs can be confusing. So, she would be supportive of putting the stop sign there immediately if they are permitted to do so.

Councilman Sedon stated that an intersection with a stop sign and a yield may be more confusing than an intersection with a four way stop. Councilwoman Knudsen added that having double sided stop signs significantly improves the outcome.

Ms. Mailander stated that she would have Mr. Rutishauser provide her with the criteria as to what is necessary and then they would go from there.

 

3. Technology Update

 

Ms. Mailander stated that Dylan Hansen, Director of IT, was there to discuss the improvements to the website and answer any questions the Village Council may have.

Mr. Hansen stated that he has been meeting regularly with Councilwoman Knudsen regarding the website structure, layout, and graphics. There are a couple of issues regarding old menus showing up during a google search, which is updated automatically, so he recommended going to the website and searching directly from there. He added that they have been getting mixed feedback, but for the most part it is positive. He stated that they came up with templates of the Boards and Committees and the Departments that they want to apply to. All that should be completed Friday or Saturday.

Mr. Hansen stated that they would then go to the Departments to make sure that their information is up to date. He added that he spoke to Ms. Mailander about the Boards and Committees and finding a way to communicate to them only through the Council liaison and the Chairman. Recently there was a problem when a member sent an ordinance and asked them to post it but the ordinance wasn’t adopted yet. As far as minutes and agendas are concerned, they have been getting them from the Boards and post them as quickly as possible.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that they downloaded every page for Boards and Committees and printed them into a PDF so the liaisons could add their input and send it back which would make it easy to update. She added that it was important to have that level of continuity for everyone to follow and understand. She stated that the website shows on different devices and is easy to switch over.

Councilwoman Knudsen added that Mayor Hache made a point that you can see that most people are using their thumb to use the buttons, so it’s easy for users. Mayor Hache added that Mr. Hansen can track how people are using the website and what they are using. Mr. Hansen stated that it will tell him what types of devices are being used and also which parts of the site are being visited. Councilwoman Knudsen added it helps knowing what buttons are being clicked on the most frequently, so those most commonly clicked can be adjusted to the top. Mr. Hansen stated that most people want to get to any place on the website in two clicks, so trying to navigate that can be tough, but they are doing their best to make that possible.

Councilman Sedon asked Mr. Hansen if he knew when he would be finished with all of the minor updates. Mr. Hansen stated that when they get done with the templates, then they can make sure that information is up to date with the Boards and Committees.

Mr. Hansen stated that regarding the sound system, he called in the company that installed it six or seven years ago, and they brought in the original specs. The one thing that wasn’t installed when they did the speakers was the lights. They found that a lot of the speakers are actually focused into the lights. He stated that at that time, the company gave him a price to resolve the issue because it wasn’t really their fault due to the changes in design. The price was around $65,000 and a loss of the room for two and a half months. At the time, he was told to look at another possible fix, so he had them come back in and recalibrate the system. He added that they were on a two-channel amp at the time, so you couldn’t turn up the amplifiers without getting feedback.

Mr. Hansen stated that he went over to the Guitar Center and the sound engineer recommended a four-channel amp which allows for more sound out of the back, but it only has two speakers there. He added that he wants to add a third speaker to fill the center of the room, as well as add a feedback filter to the microphone, but it just worked in that one, so he would need about twenty four of them. He went back to the sound engineer who then recommended putting in a sound board that has a built-in function. Mr. Hansen priced out a sound board, and used GovSpend and laid that out with a video system for cameras, which is when Ms. Mailander mentioned Swagit.

Mr. Hansen stated that the automated cameras with a three camera system would allow the videos on YouTube, Facebook and TV, and it would be in high definition on the internet. The new system sent over the specs, and he talked to one of the vendors, who told him everything he would need and the contract was just finalized. Once the contracts are signed, he will order the audio equipment and he will utilize Signal Services to run the cabling. He added that he hopes this makes a big impact, and after this, they may have to look at some kind of sound absorbing materials for the echo.

Mayor Hache asked if Mr. Hansen could speak more about Swagit. Mr. Hansen stated that you can go right to the website and pull up the video with the agenda, and after the meeting you can click on part of the agenda and it will fast forward you to that part of the video. Ms. Mailander added that you could also search for a single word and it would take you to three seconds before that word is mentioned in the video. He added that the equipment can be programmed to auto play the meetings on public access channels throughout the week until the next meeting.

Mr. Hansen added that sometimes they cannot use the room, but the new system allows them to buy additional equipment and televise from any location on the system, such as downstairs or at the Fire Department.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that they have discussed dropping the speakers down below a certain point, which may have resolved the speakers getting lost in the arch and the lights, so they were ordering new equipment but were going to utilize the same speakers. Mr. Hansen stated that they were still going to utilize the speakers, but since they were going to cut down the possibility of feedback they could turn up the volume more on them, so they will disperse more sound. If they take the speakers out of the ceiling, they use the ceiling to project the sound, and taking them down will make them more high pitched.

Councilman Voigt asked how much all of Mr. Hansen’s suggestions would cost for the sound system. Mr. Hansen stated that he priced out the sound system at $2,000, the amplifier was $800, and then the speakers were another $3,000, and then wiring and the time of the employees to run the wires. Councilman Voigt asked if a sound expert came into the room and said what was needed. Mr. Hansen stated that he had the company that came in that initially did the install and they were recommending moving everything and doing a calibration, and the calibration didn’t help at all. Councilman Voigt asked if they could call in someone else as he didn’t want to spend all this money if they didn’t really know what the issue is. Mr. Hansen stated that he had one company come in who looked at it and said they weren’t interested, adding that he would find another to come in.

Mayor Hache added that having someone come in and showing them what has been done and what is being done, and making sure that they can look at the whole thing. Mr. Hansen added that they were going to need the sound board for the Swagit system to link the audio,                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 no matter what.

Councilman Voigt stated that he was concerned that this has been going on for years and they need to fix it in the next month or so as its inexcusable to the people that are trying to listen to what they were saying.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that the company that did the install were sound engineers and audio experts, but the issue was that the lights weren’t in the drawings which created this problem. They have attempted to work around the issue, but they have the information already it’s just a matter of trying to do different things without addressing the issue that has already been diagnosed. Mr. Hansen stated that he would look for sound engineers in the area to come in and see what they say.

Mayor Hache stated that if the simple solution is to use different lights, maybe that would be it. Councilwoman Knudsen stated that if they were to remove two lights in the back, they might have an answer without spending anything more than having someone remove them and that might be what works. Mr. Hansen stated that he could have the company come back and say where they should put the speakers with those lights and move them before talking about changing any aesthetics of the lighting.

Mayor Hache stated that the suggestion is to talk to someone who knows what they are doing and they could say anything. Councilwoman Knudsen said that sometimes it’s a matter of changing one thing, and by having someone move the speaker you would have an answer. Mr. Hansen stated that he would call in the company that did it and would reach out to sound engineers that were used by surrounding municipalities.

Mr. Hansen stated that the new camera system in the caucus room is no longer working. Verizon is doing away with all copper lines which has a lot to do with the connection with The Stable. Village Hall has now been moved to digital, so if they need to set up a seminar they have an IP camera system that should be in place by the end of next week. Councilwoman Knudsen asked if copper was also being discontinued for residential use as well. Mr. Hansen stated that they are putting a lot of pressure to move over the lines from copper. He has been migrating each facility to some type of digital line, adding that Toshiba announced that they will no longer be making phone systems. He added that looking down the road they may have to replace the entire system.

Mayor Hache asked what the ETA was on the Swagit system. Ms. Mailander stated that it was probably March. Mr. Hansen stated that once they get the signed contracts in their hands then they would give the install date.

Councilman Sedon asked if the Swagit system has the feature that allowed it to go to any agenda item going backwards. Mr. Hansen said he wasn’t sure if they could do it manually going backwards, but he knows that the contract is for going forward. Councilman Sedon stated that it would be worth asking if it was possible. Ms. Mailander stated she would ask.

Mayor Hache stated that they have the E-notice system with an email address and a name, asking if it was possible to map that to a specific address so that if there is an E-notice going out to relevant areas only. Mr. Hansen stated that with E-notice, they only know the name and email address. Mayor Hache asked if they could add an address to it. Mr. Hansen said that would be more related to the Swift 911 system, which is how water sends out their messages to specific locations. Mayor Hache asked if we could target specifically, as people that receive too many general messages become desensitized. Mr. Hansen stated that they would probably have to create a new form online for people to include their address to allow them to geolocate.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that there are some individuals who ask to have the podium moved to different sides of the room so that members of the audience can see facial expression. She wondered if Swagit gave them the ability to see on the screens someone who is speaking at the microphone. Ms. Mailander stated that she didn’t believe so, but there would be a camera on the podium that would then be televised. Mr. Hansen stated that the company would be coming in and telling him where the cameras should go to get the podium, Council, and the audience. Ms. Mailander stated that they could ask the company.   Councilwoman Knudsen stated that occasionally they are asked to move the podium, but they use that for Planning Board, and Board of Adjustment and moving it in any direction compromises the ability of Board members to participate during hearings.

1. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

Rurik Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, stated that after listening to the discussion about deliveries downtown, he urged the Village Council to stay out of it as there are a lot of restaurants and deliveries that have to be made. He added that the Council is not smart enough to be able to contribute to this debate, and there is too much pressure for the Council to just want to do things. He urged them to leave it to the merchants to figure it out among themselves.

Mr. Halaby stated that he listened to Mr. Hansen about the website, and as Ms. Mailander would tell the Village Council he is very supportive of the Village employees. He added that the work started in earnest only two months ago.

Mike Elias, Ice Cream by Mike, 305 East Ridgewood Avenue, stated that he felt Councilwoman Knudsen was spot on by saying the Village Council has to do the due diligence in understanding what the vendors need and can do. He added that the Police have a public service concern, while the vendors have revenue concern and a business to run and if they can’t get the deliveries they can’t make money.

Joanne Ricci, from Raymond’s, stated that she agreed and thanked the Village Council for agreeing to look into this further. She added that there are at least ten different deliveries that they get, and she understands it is a lot, and she understands that the retailers need to have the parking access. She stated that the Police have told her drivers that they need to go across the street to the loading zone by Lucky Jeans, and that really is where they should be. Perhaps, rather than limiting hours, which may be disastrous, they could look for places to be made into loading zones on each block on the side streets where it would be convenient for the businesses to get their deliveries. Larger supply companies place as many deliveries as possible as they can put on one truck, which is how they stay in business. She is on their route at their convenience, rather than it being at her convenience.

Michael Velicu, 250 Hope Street, stated that the deliveries together with the sidewalk and the traffic are all signs of a struggling infrastructure that is almost incapable of withstanding the number of restaurants. He added that in TripAdvisor there are 100 restaurants in the Village which means hundreds and hundreds of trucks. We have to look at different ways of doing this, and it is unfair in his opinion to be so tough on the restaurants’ needs. Obviously, the restaurants are going to take over the sidewalks, there will be hundreds of trucks, tremendous traffic, and if nobody has any problem with a restaurant of 300 seats in a place where there was nothing before, it is unfair to be tough on what the restaurants need. With the number of restaurants, this is going to be a challenge from now on, and limiting the hours of delivery so dramatically, feels like an anti-business movement. Mr. Velicu stated that he would help as much as he could on his advisory board and try to provide the right information, but this is going to be tough.

Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that this is his third time discussing this issue, adding that he fully supports the Village Council’s decision to change the date of the Board of Education election. He added that based on the events of this past Monday, he felt he needed to speak about it again. He is disappointed that the BOE has decided to file a frivolous law suit at the taxpayers’ expense regarding this matter. It is doing nothing but dividing the Village and is a waste of taxpayers’ money. He added that he fully supports the Village Council, as this seems senseless to him. Mr. Loving stated that the BOE made a statement that had they not filed the suit, they were concerned that parents would be suing the BOE. However, it is the State Department of Education and the County of Bergen that has mandated that this election take place in April. He reiterated his support for the Village Council and thanked them for doing the right thing.

Mr. Loving stated that he believed the lights could be lowered. So, if they could be lowered and then conduct a test with the lights out of the way of the speakers, then maybe see what the story is without spending any money.

There were no additional comments from the public.

Mayor Hache stated that the issue with the deliveries isn’t something that the Village Council is trying to focus on but came out of frustration from some retailers and restaurant owners in particular locations. They are not trying to tell business owners how to run their businesses, as they are not voting on anything but are opening a dialogue that will continue. He stated that they were humble enough to admit that this was not their expertise, which is why they are doing outreach and due diligence. There is a lot of stuff that needs to get done, and he reviewed the current projects that the Village Council has undertaken.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that for close to a year there was an invisible home button on the website that allowed them to click on it to see what updates were happening, but it didn’t go live until recently. She thanked Mr. Hansen and Mishi because there was a lot of input. She appreciated that this has come together so nicely.

1. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION

 

Deputy Village Clerk, Donna Jackson read Resolution #19-38 to go into Closed Session as follows:

1. ADJOURNMENT

 

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Mayor Hache, seconded by Councilwoman Knudsen, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Work Session was adjourned at 9:48 P.M.

______________________________

                                                                                                   Ramon M. Hache, Sr.                             

                                                                                                                        Mayor                           

______________________________

              Donna M. Jackson

           Deputy Village Clerk