Village Council Public Meeting Minutes 20190313
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 MARCH 13, 2019 AT 8:00 P.M.
1.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 Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache. Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney.
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.ACCEPTANCE OF FINANCIAL REPORTS
Mayor Hache moved the Bills, Claims, and Vouchers, and Statement of Funds on Hand as of February 28, 2019, be accepted as submitted. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
3.ACCEPTANCE OF MINUTES
Mayor Hache moved that the Village Council minutes of January 9, January 16, and February 13, 2019 having been reviewed by the Village Council and now available in the Village Clerk’s Office be approved as submitted. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
4.PROCLAMATIONS
A.PROCLAIM MARCH RED CROSS MONTH
Councilwoman Knudsen read the following proclamation:
B.PROCLAIM MARCH COLORECTAL CANCER AWARENESS MONTH
Councilman Voigt read the following proclamation:
C.NATIONAL POISON PREVENTION WEEK
Councilman Sedon read the following proclamation:
D.COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Tony Damiano, 274 South Broad Street, stated that he was present on behalf of the spa and salon community who is now being required to have an annual inspection by the Village, with a cost of $150 to $200. This inspection seems repetitive because the salons and spas are also inspected by the State. Regarding snow removal, he is a big advocate of it, and a couple weeks ago some of the businesses were given summonses at 9:30 A.M. By the time he got to his business, it was 11:00 A.M and he shoveled three times during that day. He wondered how the businesses are selected to be ticketed, and if there were any services that they could hire to shovel the business sidewalks.
Don Liebrich, 219 Hope Street, stated that he is the Chairman of the Community Center Advisory Board, which serves a broad range of residents in the Village. Over the past five years, they have had the same volunteers show up for all of their meetings and he wanted to mention this to the Village Council, to say that they appreciate the effort of the Village Council in improving the financial situation for Parks and Recreation.
Ansi Boudin, 936 Glenview Road, stated that she has lived in the Village for 48 years and has felt more and more the need for community. She said a small piece of her life is Habernickel Park, as it is a special place for her and she spends many hours walking and observing there, and it was to her delight when about four years ago, Healthbarn arrived. Over time, she became happier to get involved further at Healthbarn during special occasions. Stacey Antine is the woman who runs the Healthbarn and she is a warm and caring person, and her staff are wonderful people. Ms. Boudin stated that she has learned more about gardening from them. She has met other neighbors at events at Healthbarn, and attended a Holiday gathering, where she met more neighbors who she did not know. She has seen firsthand how children are learning to become a cooperative part of a team.
Naz Tevlani, Ridgewood Salon Owner, Karma Organic Spa, stated that they are regulated and inspected by the State and now they are going to be inspected by the Village. He added that they have double jeopardy now, as they pay the State and are now paying the Village. He asked if there was another way around it, because if the Village is short of money, maybe there could be another way around it. He added that he loves Ridgewood and asked the Village Council to think about the fee.
Laura Petrucelli, owner Laura Celli Salon, stated that she agrees with Mr. Tevlani that she is so fortunate to have a business in Ridgewood. Regarding the new cosmetology ordinance, salon owners were given an application and a fee for a license which they feel was unnecessary and duplicates regulations already imposed by the State. They met with the Mayor, Village Manager, and Board of Health Supervisor on February 21st to question the ordinance and were told that it was on trend and in line with public health, but she felt they could give no rational basis for the new ordinance. They were told that the State Board of Beauty Culture is in favor of the duplicate licensing, but there are no documents to support that. She asked how the Village employees will understand the intricacies of what goes on in a salon.
Ms. Petrucelli stated that she made a call to legal representation at the Board of Beauty Culture and they stated they were not involved, and she learned that it is not generated by Consumer Affairs. She asked who would be inspecting the salon, as most of the salons paid this licensing fee by the due date and those who paid late or did not pay received a summons. They are still waiting for a response, and feel this is an unfair discriminatory ordinance placed upon salons. As small business owners in Ridgewood, they must meet many challenges to keep their salons profitable. They have pride in ownership and standards, and the client’s satisfaction, health and safety are of the utmost importance. She asked that this ordinance be reviewed and repealed.
Sandy Delagula, Tapestry Salon owner, stated that she loves being in Ridgewood and her business has seen its ups and downs throughout the years. They have always had a good relationship with all of the people in the town and give back constantly. She was very upset about the fact that this ordinance was adopted so quickly, as they didn’t know anything about it and then suddenly during their busiest weeks of the year, they received a letter about the new ordinance and the fee. She felt it was poorly planned and they should have been notified sooner, as they take their jobs very seriously. The Board of Beauty Culture can stop by at any time, which they also take very seriously. She stated that she went around to all of the salons on the east side, and was welcomed and impressed with the cleanliness and licenses on display. She added that this ordinance is over and above what is required.
Richard Brooks, 777 East Ridgewood Avenue, stated that he was speaking on behalf of the Parks, Recreation, and Conservation Board. He thanked the Village Council for their support, as well as Ms. Mailander. It has been a good year for them and they have accomplished a lot, such as the tennis courts being resurfaced, redesigning the batting cages at Veterans Field, Wi-Fi installation at Graydon Pool, and replacing the turf at Maple Park East. He ran through all of the varied programs that are offered by the Parks and Recreation Department, including programs for children of various ages, as well as adults.
Ryan Campbell and Sue Marie, Church of God, explained that they are holding a mega blood drive on March 17th. They have over 200 registered donors, and the local businesses are offering a lot of support, and asked if the Village Council would like to come and support their event as well. The event runs from 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.
Sue Marie stated that the Village event for Earth Day is coming up in April, and they were interested in participating in the event and asked if there was any way they could help at this event. She also offered their volunteer services to work on rehabilitating the Duck Pond.
Councilman Sedon stated that Nancy Bigos, the Director of Parks and Recreation, is working to coordinate Earth Day events, and directed them to speak with her regarding what to do.
There were no additional comments from the public.
Mayor Hache stated that there were some questions raised about the cosmetology ordinance and he wanted to go over some of the facts regarding this. Prior to this ordinance, there was no licensing in the Village which meant no regulation by the Village. There were individuals looking for assistance with their complaints, which the Village couldn’t provide because the Village had no regulation authority. The State has been completely overwhelmed as they are understaffed and asked the Village to help by licensing. He added that that it was $7,150 that would be collected from the salons, and the fee is just to cover visiting and inspecting 45 salons in town.
Mayor Hache added that this was discussed at a Public Meeting late last year, which was noticed like any other meeting. He added that the Chamber of Commerce and the Ridgewood Guild let the businesses know about ordinances being considered which may affect the businesses. A letter was sent out to all salons on December 18th requiring licenses which were due at the end of January. When some of the businesses had not responded, the Health Department made phone calls to remind the salons and also made in person visits to the establishments, which was all done before the summonses were issued on February 11th. There are other towns that have similar licenses, such as Hackensack, Paramus, Hoboken, Palisades Park, and Fair Lawn, and this is not meant as a money grab or to pick on anybody. There are other business that are regulated at the State and local level, such as day care centers, and camps. Mayor Hache stated that the inspector has a Master’s Degree in Public Health and is qualified to do the inspections.
He added that there were questions about how businesses are selected to be ticketed for snow. He explained that the Village does inspections of the sidewalk, and if there is any snow which hasn’t been removed, they are ticketed. As far as snow removal services for businesses, there are plenty to choose from, and the businesses must pursue hiring snow removal services on their own.
Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she would like to better understand the salon owners’ perspectives, and would like to hear their comments in opposition to the ordinance. She asked the salon owners to send her an email, so she could have a conversation to better understand their point of view.
Councilwoman Knudsen asked if there was a State of Emergency declared during the last snow storm. She wondered if the timing of snow removal should have been extended if a State of Emergency was declared. Ms. Mailander stated that currently within the CBD, the snow has to be removed concurrently with it falling, so it is different than in residential districts. She added that there is no difference in the ordinance if there is a State of Emergency, as many times the Governor declares it that so that they can get FEMA reimbursement. Councilwoman Knudsen stated that a State of Emergency is a reason to not go on the road. Mr. Rogers stated that there isn’t any impact on the ordinance if a State of Emergency is declared. Councilwoman Knudsen asked if that was something that the Village Council should be considering.
Councilwoman Walsh stated that she attended the Chamber of Commerce meeting that morning, and the snow removal came up. There were a couple of sidewalks that were shoveled with a walking space, and they received a ticket because it wasn’t shoveled all the way. She asked what is considered shoveled, and whether it is a pathway of a certain number of inches or the entire surface in front of the business. Ms. Mailander stated that she would have to look at the ordinance to find out how much has to be removed. Councilwoman Walsh stated that the snow was removed on 80% of the walkway and this individual got a ticket. Mr. Rogers stated that if there was a ticket issued for lack of snow removal, it would be something that the Municipal Judge would have to decide. Councilwoman Walsh stated that the snow was piled in one location that was blocking a line of sight, on a corner by a couple of businesses on Chestnut Street, which created a new hazard.
E.MANAGER’S REPORT
Ms. Mailander stated that the Village of Ridgewood is celebrating its 125th Anniversary this year and the Village Council is looking for residents to serve on its Celebration Committee. Join the Village to plan celebrations and events for this milestone, so that it is memorable for all Village residents. To serve on this committee, please call or email Eileen Young, in the Village Clerks Office, no later than March 25th. This information is also posted on the Village website.
On March 14th, the New Jersey Historic Preservation Office will vote on the nomination to approve the John A.L. Zabriskie Schedler House being added to the New Jersey and National Register of Historic Places. It has been a long road to get to this point, and the Village’s historic architect, Connelly and Hickey, will be at the hearing to represent the Village.
On March 19th, there will be a Public Hearing during the regularly scheduled Bergen County Freeholder meeting. The purpose of the hearing is to obtain public comment on a grant application that is being submitted to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Green Acres Program. The application is for park improvements and the ecological restoration involving the Wild Duck Pond area located at the Saddle River County Park. The meeting will take place in the public meeting room on the fifth floor at One Bergen County Plaza. The Division of Land Management will make a brief presentation followed by a question and answer period. Residents are encouraged to attend and participate.
The Board of Education election will take place on April 16th for a vote on the budget only. Polls will be open from 6:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. You can request a mail-in ballot if you are not able to make it to the polling place. The election in April 2020 will have a vote on the budget and candidates. March 26th is the final date to register to vote in the election, and the Village Clerk’s office will have staff in the Library lobby from 4:30 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. to register voters for the election.
Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that on days when snow or ice is forecast, garbage cans must be brought to the end of the driveway for collection. Ridgewood staff will only resume rear yard pickup once there is a path that is clear of ice and snow. Snow must be removed from residential zones within 24 hours of it falling.
The Annual Weight Loss Challenge postcards have been mailed to every Ridgewood household. The challenge begins on Thursday, March 21st. You must call the number on the card to sign up. There are prizes for those who participate.
The Village will be using Geese Peace protocols to humanely reduce the geese population. More information about reporting geese nests and volunteering to help is on the Village website. A representative from Geese Peace will be making a presentation on Geese Peace protocols later this month. Anyone interested in participating should attend.
Ms. Mailander reminded everyone to sign up for E-notices by clicking on the “Sign Up for Alerts” button at the bottom of the Village website.
Ms. Mailander reminded everyone to sign up for E-notices by clicking on the “Sign Up for Alerts” button at the bottom of the Village website.
F.COUNCIL REPORTS
Ridgewood Arts Council – Councilwoman Knudsen stated that last night, the Ridgewood Arts Council hosted an Artist Talk featuring writer and director Dana Glaser whose movie “A Case of Blue” was the subject of the artist talk at the Upper Ridgewood Tennis Club. To a standing room only crowd, Dana spoke about the movie. Present were Steven Schnitzer who is the star of the movie and producer Scot Rosenfeldt. He spoke about the entire process of creating the movie, followed up by a private event at Pearl restaurant. She added that Dana is a member of the Ridgewood Arts Council, and thanked Audrey Fink, Frank DelVecchio, Sean Flanningan, Sheri Frank, Rosie McCooe, Michael Walsh, and Max Viola of Pearl Restaurant.
Councilwoman Knudsen stated that “A Case of Blue” is a haunting tale of love lost, the impermanence of memories, and the enduring flame of passion through time. Visit ACaseofBlue.com for more information.
Master Plan – Councilwoman Knudsen stated that every address in Ridgewood should be receiving the “Our Village, Our Future: Visioning Ridgewood’s New Master Plan” postcard inviting everyone to participate in the Visioning Process survey, which is the first step to a new Master Plan for the Village. The Master Plan directs future growth, economics, and stability for the Village. She encouraged residents to go to VisionRidgewood.org to take the survey online, and map their vision with points of interest throughout the Village. For individuals without a computer, they can contact the Village Clerk’s office for a hard copy that can be completed and sent back to be manually entered into the system.
Chamber of Commerce – Councilwoman Walsh stated that the Chamber of Commerce meeting was this morning. She stated that there were two ordinances that the Village Council would be speaking about this evening, 3713 and 3717, which have to do with the train station lot and changing the parking spots there to be for anybody that is going to park after a certain hour, and the other is the outdoor café ordinance. The Chamber is interested and concerned about these ordinances and how they could impact businesses.
They spoke about the kiosks and the numbers that the Village Council received about their revenue and she would like a better indication into how those numbers were calculated, including the parking passes. She would like to know the number of transactions at the kiosks, to give the Village Council a better understanding as to why those revenue numbers jumped so dramatically.
Councilwoman Walsh stated that she was given a letter that someone sent to the Chamber of Commerce regarding the Hudson Street lot and the signage, as they had parked in a commuter spot late at night and it was virtually impossible for them to understand the signage in the lot. She added that another question was regarding the commuter passes that were sold for Hudson Street lot with the ridesharing services, once the Hudson Street lot closes down. There are very few parking spaces being used in the Hudson parking lot, and there was a question about that. She asked Ms. Mailander how many of those spots were sold. Ms. Mailander stated that they had 55 total parking spaces in the Hudson Street lot, and not many spots were sold. Some of the concern was that people didn’t know how the ridesharing program was going to work, so they were reluctant to purchase a Hudson Street lot permit. Perhaps once the Village Council awards a contract for the ridesharing service, more people will purchase a permit for the Hudson Street lot when they understand what the parameters of that program would be.
Councilwoman Walsh asked that if they hadn’t sold out all of the commuter spots in the Hudson Street lot if those spots were vacant. Ms. Mailander stated that they have not sold all of the commuter spots, so some spots would be vacant because the pass is only for the Hudson Street lot. There was no way to sell the empty spots in the Hudson Street lot as part of the premium parking permit package, because those people would not be participating in the ride sharing program. She said that tonight, the Village Council would be introducing an ordinance that would allow individuals to park in all parking lots after 3:00 P.M., without a permit; however, there would be a 3-hour time limit and they would have to pay the meter.
Councilwoman Walsh stated that one of the Chamber of Commerce members asked if there was a general update on the garage and when it was going to begin construction. Mayor Hache stated that it would be coming soon.
Upcoming Events – Councilman Voigt stated that Age Friendly Ridgewood has an Elder Law program on March 19th from 6:30 P.M. to 7:30 P.M. at the Ridgewood Public Library, with Irina Shay, an expert on organizing legal and financial affairs to minimize stress.
April 30th “This Chair Rocks” a manifesto against Ageism will be held at Ridgewood Public Library from 7:00 P.M. to 8:30 P.M., with author Ashton Applewhite.
March 23rd, there is a St Patrick’s Day Party at Mount Carmel Church from 7:00 P.M. to 11:00 P.M. hosted by the Knights of Columbus. Tickets for the event can be found at their website, it is $60 per person, and all proceeds go to charity. It is a fun night of entertainment.
Central Business District Advisory Committee – Mayor Hache stated that the Central Business District Advisory Council meeting will be held tomorrow morning.
G.2019 BUDGET INTRODUCTION
a.Budget Message
Ms. Mailander stated that the budget season starts in July when the budget material is handed out to the Department Directors who when meet with Bob Rooney, Chief Financial Officer, and Steve Sanzari, Village Treasurer. The Department Directors then come back and meet with Ms. Mailander, Mr. Rooney, and Mr. Sanzari, and go through their budgets again to reduce them further. Budget meetings with the Village Council are held where the Department Directors give their achievements, goals, and discuss their budgets. Finally, Ms. Mailander, Mr. Rooney, and Mr. Sanzari meet again to go over the requests one more time to get it to the budget increase directed by the Village Council.
Ms. Mailander thanked the Department Directors for everything that they have done during this budget season. She also thanked Mr. Rooney and Mr. Sanzari for all of their hard work over the past eight months.
Ms. Mailander started with the highlights of Village accomplishments. There was a Village-wide Shred Day; design and replacement of new monitors and screens in the Court Room; public
Wi-Fi was installed at Graydon Pool, the Stable, and Village Hall; E-Ticketing was deployed for use by the Police Department and Parking Enforcement; improvements were made to the Village website to make it more user friendly; recertification of the Village’s community-rating service, which reduces flood insurance for residents in the flood plain; the Village received NJDOT paving grants in amount of $380,627 which reduced the need for Village capital funds; established connections in Village Hall for a generator funded through a FEMA grant; repaired Pease Library stairs and those at the pedestrian tunnel from the central train platform; upgraded lighting at several critical crosswalks in the CBD; worked with Age Friendly Ridgewood to find hazardous sidewalks in the CBD; coordinated Wellness Day and the Weight Loss Challenge; established licensing of e-cigarettes and established penalties for their sale to minors; licensing of spas, nail and hair salons; adoption of poultry and foul ordinance; distributed 83 radon testing kits obtained through a grant; changed the vendor and enhanced the Village’s fixed asset inventory system; enhanced accounting for capital assets by incorporating specific identification of I.T. equipment; expanded to seven kiosks in the CBD; prepared a financial and debt management plan which was adopted by the Village Council; implemented select 2017 recommendations from rating agencies which allowed the Village to maintain its AAA rating; and purchased the Goffle Road property for use by Ridgewood Water as a Treatment Facility.
Ms. Mailander started with the highlights of Village accomplishments. There was a Village-wide Shred Day; design and replacement of new monitors and screens in the Court Room; public
Wi-Fi was installed at Graydon Pool, the Stable, and Village Hall; E-Ticketing was deployed for use by the Police Department and Parking Enforcement; improvements were made to the Village website to make it more user friendly; recertification of the Village’s community-rating service, which reduces flood insurance for residents in the flood plain; the Village received NJDOT paving grants in amount of $380,627 which reduced the need for Village capital funds; established connections in Village Hall for a generator funded through a FEMA grant; repaired Pease Library stairs and those at the pedestrian tunnel from the central train platform; upgraded lighting at several critical crosswalks in the CBD; worked with Age Friendly Ridgewood to find hazardous sidewalks in the CBD; coordinated Wellness Day and the Weight Loss Challenge; established licensing of e-cigarettes and established penalties for their sale to minors; licensing of spas, nail and hair salons; adoption of poultry and foul ordinance; distributed 83 radon testing kits obtained through a grant; changed the vendor and enhanced the Village’s fixed asset inventory system; enhanced accounting for capital assets by incorporating specific identification of I.T. equipment; expanded to seven kiosks in the CBD; prepared a financial and debt management plan which was adopted by the Village Council; implemented select 2017 recommendations from rating agencies which allowed the Village to maintain its AAA rating; and purchased the Goffle Road property for use by Ridgewood Water as a Treatment Facility.
In the Building Department, they directed Department operations based on the fact that the State established regulations which negated the need for inspections for ordinary maintenance and minor work; hosted a public forum for contractors on these new regulations; developed a plan review and process checklist for new CBD construction projects; assisted with the development of the outdoor display and temporary storage container ordinances; all multi-family development contracts were approved and project planning on their sites was discussed by personnel in the Building Department.
Ms. Mailander stated that in Fleet Services, they entered into a Shared Services Agreement with Washington Township and the Board of Education for repair and maintenance of vehicles; and created a reporting system so that Washington Township can receive updates on the status of their vehicles, through one point person.
In the Streets Department, they purchased new equipment, making Ridgewood leaf pickup and snowplowing more efficient.
In the Parks and Recreation Department, they planted more than 200 shade trees in 2018 which was the most in the last 35 years; they continue development of the Zabriskie-Schedler House and Kings Pond Park restoration/rehabilitation; Graydon Pool had the best water quality in many years; and firewood was provided to residents for free, resulting in lower dumping costs and fees.
Ms. Mailander stated that in the Fire Department, they hired two new firefighters who have completed Firefighter 1 and 2 and are enrolled in EMT training; they maintained a rating of 2 from the Insurance Services Office for the Fire Department, which keeps insurance costs low for residents and business owners; they received grants for computers with assistance of Millennium Strategies, the Village grant writers; all of the Ridgewood Firefighters were trained in active shooter response, the Village was one of four towns in Bergen County to receive a grant for bulletproof vests and helmets for the firefighters at no cost to the Village; and they replaced the bathroom and roof at the firehouse at 311 West Glen Avenue, with assistance from firefighters and the Traffic and Signal Department.
In the Police Department, they have fully implemented the new scheduling software, and the Police Officers and Police management have access from their phones to their schedules, overtime, and training which will be integrated into the payroll system in 2019.
The final design for the Zabriskie-Schedler House and Schedler Park property have been developed for the park property with a field, parking lot, playground, and walking path; they brought in free landfill from multi-family housing developments and Ridgewood Water projects to create the berm and level the land at the Schedler Park property; they held preapproval hearings for bidders for the rehabilitation and restoration of the Zabriskie-Schedler House including roof replacement and interior restoration which includes replacement of doors, windows, plumbing, HVAC and catering kitchen.
For the Kings Pond Park restoration, residents and Parks and Recreation have developed a plan which includes a stone dust walking path, two small parking lots, planting of trees, curbing, and the possibility for a playground in the future. Ms. Mailander stated that they met with representatives from the Bergen County Department of Public Works to develop a Shared Services Agreement to dredge Kings Pond which is going to take place very soon.
For the project of tree trimming and brush removal at The View at Crest Road, they met with the neighbors of both Hillcrest Road and Crest Road to conduct trimming of the trees and restored The View for all Village residents and out of town guests to enjoy.
Central Business District Improvements include the approval of $12 million in funding for the Hudson Street Parking Garage; approving a new configuration for the train station parking lot to create 36 additional parking spaces; created flex parking spaces in the Cottage Place lot; amended B1/B2 zoning to include more modern uses; adopted blade sign ordinance; adopted regulations for outdoor displays; established free parking in parking lots on Saturdays in December; worked with Ridgewood Arts Council to beautify empty storefronts for the Christmas holidays; purchased the Elks Club to increase the efficiency of the Ridgewood Water Department personnel; approved a contract with Swagit to update and enhance the televising of Ridgewood Public Meetings.
In the Water Department, three rounds of lead and copper testing were conducted successfully, which resulted in an 82% reduction in lead levels which are the lowest levels ever recorded in the system; enhanced communications to consumers, regulators, and stakeholders in all municipalities in Ridgewood Water; held open forums in all four municipalities to educate them about the various aspects of Ridgewood Water and its operations; distributed educational material to all consumers about PFAS and other contaminants and took a proactive stance in addressing them; engaged a law firm to help identify the sources of contamination in the utility and pursued lawsuits against these sources in order to reduce remediation costs; made substantial improvements to the water infrastructure including the Carr Treatment Plant, which will provide additional millions of gallons of water to the system in the summer of 2019; and purchased the Goffle Road property for use by Ridgewood Water as a treatment facility.
Village-wide goals for 2019 include: review plans, provide permits, and inspect the multi-family housing developments; expand the public wi-fi to include Memorial Park at Van Neste Square; install an improved sound system and acoustics in the Court Room; improve the broadcasting of Village Council meetings; enhance the Stigma Free Committee with more outreach to the Village and its residents; hire new management and supervisory positions for long time employees who are retiring; establish a revenue consolidation system and allow for credit card use throughout various departments; begin construction of the Hudson Street Parking Garage; continue to foster communication to the Ridgewood Water Utility consumers on conservation, budget, and project plans including encouraging the adoption of new water conservation ordinances by Wyckoff, Midland Park, and Glen Rock; a new packer truck will be available at the Recycling Center for cardboard in the second quarter of the year; and establishing a composting food waste recycling area at the Recycling Center.
The Police Department will work on creating community policing teams; the E-ticket program will be working efficiently with possible Shared Services Agreements with other municipalities; replacement of a Fire Engine that is 25 years old; the Municipal Court process has been streamlined and they have installed a new video system for the Municipal Court which goes to all of the jails in the State which negates the need to transport prisoners to the Ridgewood Municipal Court. Additional parking kiosks will be installed in the CBD; permanent part-time employees will be increased as needed; the creation of the Schedler Park and the renovation of the Zabriskie-Schedler House will begin; improvements at Kings Pond Park will continue; improvements to West Glen Avenue with sidewalks; establishment of credit card usage for all departments; the design and content of the OEM website will be updated; another person will be hired to support the Water I.T. system, as well as assist generally through programming and coding; the Fire contract will be negotiated; continue upgrade of HVAC and security system at Village Hall; resurface tennis courts; resurface six miles of road; enhance the sound system in the Court Room; replace public safety vehicles and equipment; and update the SCADA system at the Water Pollution Control Facility.
For the Water Department, they will manage the renovation of the Elks Club for water utility operations; procure and complete the PFAS action plan items; conclude the construction of the Carr Water Treatment Facility; manage the successful completion of utility capital projects with emphasis on asset management plans and priorities and projects that restore system capacity and prepare for future treatment requirements; hiring the I.T. professional to serve the utility’s growth and needs; complete the Passaic Valley Water Commission Water Quality Study Pipeline Design; and secure contracts that benefits the ratepayers of the utility. They will continue to foster communication to the Water Utility consumers on conservation, budget, system projects, and capital plans including adopting the new water conservation ordinance. In addition, the Water Utility will restructure customer service and public relations to enhance the front line of the utility, including hopefully launching a new website.
Ms. Mailander stated that the budget process began in October, and the emphasis was on operating efficiencies as well as customer service improvements and investment in people, process, and technology. Budget reviews with the Village Council are designed to elevate the dialogue to include strategic, as well as daily operations. Operating expenses, as well as capital expenses, were discussed for the Village, Parking Utility, Water Utility, and Library. Various sessions were held with the Village Council, and Department Directors made presentations on the 2019 budget requests. The past two weeks, the Village Council put in an additional nine hours of meetings, so she wanted to thank the Village Council for being able to coordinate their schedules to be there for the meetings and for the extra time that they put in. Their final budget meeting proposed the water, parking, and capital budgets in addition to General, Water Utility, and Parking Utility operating budgets.
Bob Rooney, Village CFO, stated that the 2019 General Operating Budget includes approximately $32.9 million of contractual obligations, including Police salaries, pension, health insurance, terminal leave and vacation, which accounts for 65% of the operating budget. As of December 31, 2018 they have $6.7 million of compensated absences. There are currently seven confirmed retirements for 2018-2019 that they are paying out of the Terminal Leave Trust Fund. The Terminal Leave Trust Fund currently has a balance of $791,000.
Mr. Rooney stated that the Operating Budget is approximately $50.6 million. The General Capital Budget is $7.2 million. This Operating Budget will result in a 0.99% municipal tax increase or $48 annual increase on an average home assessed at $702,225. The estimated outstanding debt at the end of 2018 is $39.7 million, and in 2017 it was $39.8 million. Revenue and expenses are up approximately 1.1% over last year. He showed a comparison of the total appropriations between 2018 and 2019, which have increased approximately $500,000. Surplus stayed flat. Miscellaneous revenues and receipts from delinquent taxes have increased approximately $100,000. In order to balance the budget, the amount to be raised has increased approximately $400,000. This results in a $48 increase on the average assessed value home.
Mr. Rooney stated that anticipated revenues have been maximized, surplus funds are optimized, and miscellaneous revenues are flat to last year. In the revenue stream, there are certain things that are identified as risks, including administrative fees from Police Department side jobs for public utilities; weather effects on Graydon Pool attendance and revenues; recycling revenues; one time revenues; the use of additional capital fund surpluses; and State influence on fees which could impact both the Municipal Court and Building Department fees going forward. The opportunities they have made is the fund balances continue to grow, and they have new tax ratables.
Mr. Rooney displayed a comparison of different line items for what was budgeted in 2018 and realized, the excess in deficits, and the recommended budget for 2019. He also displayed the fluctuation, where there were decreases in 2019 over 2018 budgeted in General Capital Surplus of $300,000, decrease in Trust Funds of $265,000 for a total of $565,000. Revenues for the Building Department have increased $105,000, flood reserves are up $98,000, local revenue $60,000, cellular tower revenue $55,000, sewer plant discharge $71,000, increase on investments $221,000 for a net increase of $464,000.
Mr. Rooney displayed a comparison of the fund balances over the last eight years. He displayed an unaudited surplus beginning balance of $12.8 million as of December 31, 2018 and the surplus is the same in 2019 as it was in 2018. He displayed a comparison of budget appropriations both inside and outside the CAP, comparing capital improvement fund, debt service payments, deferred charges, and reserve from uncollected taxes. Gross debt for the General Capital Fund as of December 31, 2018 is $39.7 million in bonds, loans, and notes, and $13.5 million in debt authorized and issued. In 2019 they will be paying down $4.3 million and after tonight’s capital ordinances will have a general debt of $7.2 million issued, for a projected gross debt of $56.1 million.
Mr. Rooney stated that the proposed ordinance for tonight is comprised of $2 million in street paving, purchase of vehicles $1.8 million, IT $529,000, Public Safety $43,700, Engineering $742,000, Library $90,000, and other infrastructure and equipment $1.5 million. He reiterated the risks that are faced in the 2019 budget include the negotiation for new Fire contracts; defense of any tax appeals that may develop during the year; State influence on fees; Police overtime; stabilizing infrastructure; and one-time revenues. Water risk will involve weather conditions, stabilizing infrastructure, and compliance with any USEPA/NJDEP water regulations.
The Water Operating Budget is down approximately $200,000 from last year. Surplus anticipated is down about $800,000. Water rents are up $500,000 with the difference being made up in miscellaneous and facilities with facility charges and water rents which the Village Council will be voting on tonight. The Water Utility Operating budget has been reduced by $200,000. The significant decreases there are $702,000 in operating budget, capital improvement is down $600,000, debt service is down $32,000, and statutory expenses are down $283,000. The proposed Capital Budget for Water consists of $395,000 in supply transfer booster improvements; $998,000 for wells and treatment; distribution system improvements $1,040,000; equipment and vehicles $343,000; interconnection improvements $2,080,000; for a total of $4.9 million.
The Parking Utility Budget is down $16,500 from last year. The difference being made up of increased salaries and wages for extended hours for parking enforcement, by $5,700; other expense which is contractual of $7,800; and debt service of $3,000. The proposed 2019 Parking Capital Budget consists of $75,000 for kiosks and cameras; and $60,000 for license plate readers.
Ms. Mailander stated the public hearing and adoption of the 2019 Budget is on April 10th at the Village Council’s Public Meeting, which begins at 8:00 P.M. Councilman Voigt and Councilwoman Knudsen asked for copies of the presentation to be sent to them.
Mayor Hache stated that he appreciate the hard work that goes into the budget process, including Friday night Budget Meetings and Budget Meetings on non-Council meeting nights. It is a lot of work and a lot of detail, diving in with the assumption that there is no increase and from there they reduce the budget. He added that he is very proud of the budget that they are presenting.
Councilman Voigt seconded Mayor Hache’s sentiments, and thanked everyone for what they did. He added that the Budget looks good. Councilwoman Knudsen added that she agreed, and Ms. Mailander thanked the Department Heads and the Village Council, but they owe her the thanks. The list of accomplishments is incredible. Mayor Hache asked Ms. Mailander about the timing. Ms. Mailander stated that they are about a month ahead of schedule as the budget is usually introduced in April and adopted in May, and in the time that she has worked in Ridgewood, she doesn’t think it has been introduced this early.
b.Introduction – Ordinance 3708 – Establish a CAP Bank
b.Introduction – Ordinance 3708 – Establish a CAP Bank
Mayor Hache moved the first reading of ordinance 3708. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3708 by title:
CALENDAR YEAR 2019 ORDINANCE TO EXCEED THE MUNICIPAL BUDGET APPROPRIATION LIMITS AND TO ESTABLISH A CAP BANK
(N.J.S.A. 40A: 4-45.14)
(N.J.S.A. 40A: 4-45.14)
Councilman Voigt moved that ordinance 3708 be adopted on first reading and that April 10, 2019 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
c.RESOLUTIONS
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 19-65 THROUGH 19-67, WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION, NUMBERED 19-68, WAS CONSIDERED SEPARATELY AND READ IN FULL:
H.ORDINANCES – RIDGEWOOD WATER
a.INTRODUCTION - #3709 – Amend Chapter 269 – Water Service Connections
Mayor Hache moved the first reading of ordinance 3709. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3709 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 269 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, WATER, AT SECTION 269-36.1, “WATER SERVICE CONNECTIONS”
Councilman Voigt moved that ordinance 3709 be adopted on first reading and that April 10, 2019 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.
Councilman Voigt moved that ordinance 3709 be adopted on first reading and that April 10, 2019 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
b.INTRODUCTION - #3710 – Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Ridgewood Water Utility – Volume Rates
Mayor Hache moved the first reading of ordinance 3710. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3710 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”
Councilwoman Knudsen moved that ordinance 3710 be adopted on first reading and that April 10, 2019 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Councilwoman Knudsen moved that ordinance 3710 be adopted on first reading and that April 10, 2019 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
c.INTRODUCTION - #3711 – Bond Ordinance – Water Utility Capital
Mayor Hache moved the first reading of ordinance 3711. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3711 by title:
BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR VARIOUS WATER UTILITY IMPROVEMENTS IN AND BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $4,856,800 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $4,856,800 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE THE COST THEREOF
Councilman Sedon moved that ordinance 3711 be adopted on first reading and that April 10, 2019 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Councilman Sedon moved that ordinance 3711 be adopted on first reading and that April 10, 2019 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT:None
ABSTAIN:None
NAYS:None
ABSENT:None
ABSTAIN:None
I.RESOLUTIONS
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 19-69 THROUGH 19-74, WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:
J.ORDINANCES
a.INTRODUCTION - #3712 – BondOrdinance – General Capital
Mayor Hache moved the first reading of ordinance 3712. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3712 by title:
BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR VARIOUS CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS IN AND BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $5,690,000 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $5,418,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE PART OF THE COST THEREOF
Councilwoman Knudsen moved that ordinance 3712 be adopted on first reading and that April 10, 2019 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Councilwoman Knudsen moved that ordinance 3712 be adopted on first reading and that April 10, 2019 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
b.INTRODUCTION - #3713 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Parking in all Parking Lots in Central Business District and at the Train Station After 3:00 p.m.
Mayor Hache moved the first reading of ordinance 3713. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3713 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-33, “PERMIT PARKING”
Councilwoman Knudsen moved that ordinance 3713 be adopted on first reading and that April 10, 2019 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Councilwoman Knudsen moved that ordinance 3713 be adopted on first reading and that April 10, 2019 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
c.INTRODUCTION - #3714 – Amend Chapter 244 – Smoking
Mayor Hache moved the first reading of ordinance 3714. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3714 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 244 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD ENTITLED “SMOKING” AT ARTICLE IV ENTITLED
“TOBACCO SHOPS, CANNABIS SHOPS AND ELECTRONIC VAPOR SUBSTANCE INHALATION SHOPS”
“TOBACCO SHOPS, CANNABIS SHOPS AND ELECTRONIC VAPOR SUBSTANCE INHALATION SHOPS”
Councilwoman Knudsen moved that ordinance 3714 be adopted on first reading and that April 10, 2019 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
d.INTRODUCTION - #3715 – Amend Chapter 186 – Landscapers and Landscaping Services
Mayor Hache moved the first reading of ordinance 3715. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3715 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 186 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, LANDSCAPERS AND LANDSCAPING SERVICES, AT SECTION 186-3, “PERMIT REQUIRED” AND SECTION 186-4, “PERMIT FEE” AND SECTION 186-5, “TERM OF PERMIT” AND SECTION 186-7, “APPLICATION PROCEDURE AND REQUIRED INFORMATION”
Councilman Voigt moved that ordinance 3715 be adopted on first reading and that April 10, 2019 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Councilman Voigt moved that ordinance 3715 be adopted on first reading and that April 10, 2019 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
e.INTRODUCTION - #3716 – Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Landscapers and Landscaping Services
Mayor Hache moved the first reading of ordinance 3716. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3716 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”
Councilwoman Knudsen moved that ordinance 3716 be adopted on first reading and that April 10, 2019 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Councilwoman Knudsen moved that ordinance 3716 be adopted on first reading and that April 10, 2019 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
f.INTRODUCTION - #3717 – Amend Chapter 156 – Food and Food Handling Establishments- Outdoor Cafes
Mayor Hache moved the first reading of ordinance 3717. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3717 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND ARTICLE VIII OF CHAPTER 156 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, FOOD AND FOOD HANDLING ESTABLISHMENTS, AT SECTION 156-69, “LOCATION” AND SECTION 156-70, “APPLICATION FOR LICENSE” AND SECTION 156-85, “SEASONAL OPERATION; DURATION OF LICENSE”
Councilwoman Knudsen moved that ordinance 3717 be adopted on first reading and that April 10, 2019 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Councilwoman Knudsen moved that ordinance 3717 be adopted on first reading and that April 10, 2019 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:Councilman Voigt
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
NAYS:Councilman Voigt
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
g.INTRODUCTION - #3718 – Bond Ordinance – Parking Utility Capital
Mayor Hache moved the first reading of ordinance 3718. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3718 by title:
BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE ACQUISITION OF EQUIPMENT FOR THE PARKING UTILITY IN AND BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $142,000 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $142,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE THE COST THEREOF
Councilwoman Knudsen moved that ordinance 3718 be adopted on first reading and that April 10, 2019 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Councilwoman Knudsen moved that ordinance 3718 be adopted on first reading and that April 10, 2019 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
h.PUBLIC HEARING - #3705 – Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Significant Sewer Discharger Fees
Mayor Hache moved the reading of ordinance 3705 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3705 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 he moved the Public Hearing be closed. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
Councilwoman Walsh moved that ordinance 3705 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
i.PUBLIC HEARING - #3706 – Amend Chapter 133 – Refuse Containers
Mayor Hache moved the reading of ordinance 3706 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3706 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 133 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, “DUMPSTERS”
Mayor Hache announced that the Public Hearing was open.
Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that he quickly looked at this ordinance and there were some provisions with respect to construction, that the dumpster may not be placed a certain time before construction, and his concern is that people get them when they are not doing construction to clean out their house. He asked if the ordinance was saying that the only legal reason to have them on your property is if construction is happening. Mr. Rogers stated that the way it is written you can have it for the use Mr. Loving is talking about.
Mr. Loving stated that with respect to property lines, if it is not in the driveway, it has to be ten feet away from the property line, and he asked if that included the street front property line. Mr. Rogers stated that there was a regulation that deals with placing them in the front yard. Mr. Loving stated that his concern is that some people put dumpsters at the end of their driveway, and he asked if that was legal. Mr. Roger stated that his interpretation would include the front property line as well, as it is currently written.
Mr. Loving asked when this ordinance would go into effect. Mr. Rogers stated that it was the regular time period. Ms. Mailander stated that it would be 20 days from today. Mr. Loving asked if Mr. Yotka’s staff would be instructed to try to find residences which currently have dumpsters, so that if they will still be there 20 days from today, they will have to get a permit and pay the fee or will it be the case that if a dumpster is currently on a resident’s property, that the dumpster is exempt from the fee because it was there before this ordinance was adopted. Mr. Rogers stated that they would speak with the Building Department. Ms. Mailander stated that they would give people a chance to get the permit. Mr. Loving stated that he wanted to make sure that there was no exemption, and they would make sure that all of the dumpsters that are currently on a resident’s property will get a permit and pay the fee. Ms. Mailander stated that once the ordinance becomes effective, they would require permits and the Building Department would go out and notify people.
Mr. Loving asked if that was the way that it was done with the temporary storage containers, that all of them that were at a property on the effective date of that ordinance had to obtain a permit and pay the fee. Ms. Mailander stated that it was done that way.
There were no additional comments from the public, and Mayor Hache moved the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
Councilman Voigt moved that ordinance 3706 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
j.PUBLIC HEARING - #3707 – Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Refuse Containers
Mayor Hache moved the reading of ordinance 3707 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3707 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 he moved the Public Hearing be closed. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
Councilwoman Knudsen moved that ordinance 3707 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES:Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN:None
K.RESOLUTIONS
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 19-75 THROUGH 19-101, WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:
L.COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that this was the third or fourth time that he has to mention that the PowerPoint font size has to be larger when they are shown on the screens in the Court Room. He pointed out that it is difficult for the audience to see. Councilwoman Knudsen stated that they should come up with a plan for a font size that should be the standard across all PowerPoints.
Mr. Loving stated that he has observed what Councilwoman Walsh stated about the Hudson street Parking Lot, as this morning he saw that 70%-80% of the spots were empty, and as the Village Manager pointed out, that is why the lot is vacant. He added that he was stunned that there was no immediate action to correct that, as we are told that parking is scarce in the Village, and are going to be building a new parking garage, and yet we let that lot sit for the past 2.5 months with 70%-80% of the lot vacant and there is no reason for that at all. There is something that could be done immediately so people are not driving around in circles looking for a place to park. There is no revenue coming in with those spots sitting vacant.
Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, thanked the Village Council for the Budget which looks like a fantastic increase at 0.99%. She added that she hopes that the remediation of the tree wells in the CBD is included, as spring is coming and she knows that Councilman Sedon has worked so hard on the trees and she hopes that the plan to remediate those tree wells is included.
Councilwoman Knudsen asked Mr. Rogers, if they know a certain number of passes were sold and they have a difference of spaces that will be left empty, is there anything that the Village Manager is allowed to do immediately, such as removing signs, so that those spaces can be used as regular parking. Mr. Rogers stated that they could bring attention to that, but they would have to go through the process of addressing it. Mayor Hache asked if they could suspend the ordinance. Mr. Rogers stated that they would have to communicate with those individuals who have purchased permits.
Councilwoman Knudsen suggested a situation where there were spaces that could be freed up for individuals to use for parking, as the lot is sitting empty. She asked Mr. Rogers if the Village Manager could take down the signs. Mr. Rogers stated that the designated parking permit spaces were created by ordinance, and it would have to be brought back for action by the Village Council, even if there is a suspension of enforcement for the permits. A resolution would have to be adopted to suspend the ordinance until they decided what to do with the Hudson Street parking lot. Mayor Hache stated that they would then have to identify which spots would be used for permits. Mr. Rogers was in agreement about marking the spots.
Councilwoman Knudsen stated that they were two weeks out from the meeting. She suggested a discussion, followed by a Special Public Meeting during the Work Session. Mr. Rogers stated that he would encourage them to take action to address the ordinance as well. Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she would find it helpful to have the number of permits that were sold and what is outstanding so that they can address it.
Mayor Hache stated that regarding the tree wells, they have about $40,000 left over from last year’s budget, and the intention is to start the work with eliminating the brick bands which are creating most of the problems with the lack of retention of water from the tree wells. Councilman Sedon stated that Engineering would work on a bid to go out and see what it would cost to do one side of the street, which might include irrigation, and they could choose a la carte what they would like to have done and extrapolate out what the project would cost. He added that this work would be done over several years, but they are definitely starting the process.
M.ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Sedon, seconded by Councilwoman Walsh, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Regular Public Meeting was adjourned at 9:50 P.M.
______________________________
Ramon M. Hache, Sr.
Mayor
______________________________
Heather A. Mailander
Village Manager/Village Clerk
Heather A. Mailander
Village Manager/Village Clerk
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