Village of Ridgewood Work Session Meeting Minutes 20190306

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, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY ON MARCH 6, 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, Walsh, and Mayor Hache. Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney; and Donna Jackson, Deputy Village Clerk.

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

Louisa Hellegers, Manager Bergen Volunteer Center ‘Redefining Retirement Program,’ introduced Linda Creshione and Rose Marie Marisco as two of their Matchmakers, as well as Deana Schablik from Ridgewood Parks and Recreation who has helped them arrange space for their monthly information sessions. She stated that redefining retirement is about older adults who want to give back using their life and work skills, experience and interests to volunteer in local non-profits or social service organizations. Their main goal is to help four groups: the individual retiree who wants to do something meaningful and skill space work; the non-profits who need experienced help but might not be able to afford it; clients who are helped by the non-profits; and thus the community at large. They call this a win-win-win-win. This is accomplished by connecting interested retirees with Bergen County non-profits who need the skills that the volunteers bring. Ms. Hellegers stated this keeps the volunteers active locally, doing something that is possibly new to them that makes a difference and that may help them age in place in a community where they might have lived for a number of years.

As of today, the ‘Redefining Retirement Program’ has 39 diverse participating organizations including 32 non-profits, 2 hospitals, and 5 internal Bergen Volunteer Center programs. There are 6 based in Ridgewood. To ensure skills based volunteer connections, they ask what specific volunteer skills the organizations need to achieve their goals. They have matched 90 volunteers in 29 agencies and counting. Ms. Hellegers provided flyers and information about their programs, and directed people to her website www.bergenvolunteers.org. On the website you can find information about their monthly information sessions in six towns around Bergen County.

Tracy Tozzi, 17 Sherman Place, stated that over the last three or four years there has been a bad volume of traffic that comes through Sherman Place. She stated that in the agenda there was a proposal to put no parking on the west side of Sherman Place, which wouldn’t be a good idea because most of the volume goes into the dentist’s office and continues down the road. Making no parking on that side would cause people to go down the road, make a U-turn and then park on the opposite side. She received an email yesterday from Mr. Rutishauser indicating that he was going to make no parking on the west side and on the frontage of 17 Sherman Place. There is such a bottleneck of cars coming through, and many people are even parking in the wrong direction. Ms. Tozzi stated that her neighbor has been sending photos to Mr. Rutishauser, and it would make more sense to her to have no parking.

There were no additional comments from the public.

Mayor Hache stated that Mr. Rutishauser was at the meeting and the Village Council would hear from him regarding his recommendation for Sherman Place later in the meeting.

3. MANAGERS REPORT

Daylight Savings Time – Ms. Mailander stated that this Sunday, March 10th we will all turn our clocks forward as Spring is coming.

Outdoor Cafes Update – Ms. Mailander stated that they have discussed this and went out and measured as there was a recommendation from one of the restaurants on the parallel parking that they allow for 18 inches instead of 30 inches. On measuring it, they realized that to open the doors, they need that swing in order to be able to open car doors fully, so it will remain at 30 inches.

Garbage Collection – Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that on days when the snow is falling or ice is forming, residents must bring their garbage cans to the curb. Rear yard garbage collection will only resume once there is a path to the garbage cans that is clear of ice and snow.

Snow Removal – All snow must be removed in residential zones within 24 hours of it falling.

Wild Duck Pond – Tuesday, March 19th at 7:00 P.M. a Public Hearing will be held during the regularly scheduled Freeholder Meeting to obtain public comment regarding an application for grant funding that is being submitted to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Green Acres Program. The application is for improvements in ecological restoration involving the Wild Duck Pond Area at the Saddle River County Park. The meeting will take place in the County Administration Building Public Meeting room on the fifth floor of 1 Bergen County Plaza in Hackensack. All residents are encouraged to attend and participate.

Board of Education Election – Ms. Mailander stated that the Board of Education election will be held on April 16th for a vote on the budget only. Polls will be open from 6:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. In April 2020, the BOE will have a vote on the candidates and the budget and there will be no November BOE election this year.

March 26th is the final date to register for this year’s election. The Village Clerks office will have a representative in the lobby of the library from 4:30 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. on that day to register voters. As long as you register by 9:00 P.M. that evening you will be eligible to vote in the April 16th Board of Education election.

“Meet the Mayor” – Ms. Mailander stated that Mayor Hache would meet with residents on an appointment-only basis on Saturday, March 9th, from 9:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. She encouraged interested residents 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.

E-Notices – Ms. Mailander encouraged residents to sign up for E-Notices, and Swift Reach alerts on the Village website.

Annual Weight Loss Challenge Postcards – Ms. Mailander stated that the postcards have been mailed to every Ridgewood household, and the Challenge begins on March 24th.

Geese Problem – Ms. Mailander stated that geese are a problem, and if anyone finds geese nesting on their property, please call the Health Department to report their location. Geese Peace volunteers should call the Health Department, as well.

4. COUNCIL REPORTS

Ridgewood Environmental Action Committee and The Green Team – Councilman Sedon stated that REAC and The Green Team will be hosting two education events involving Styrofoam. A sub-committee got a grant through Sustainable Jersey for $20,000 for the Bergen County Hub to hold education events in several towns. On March 24th from 2:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M., children from grade 1-5 are welcome to the Stable for the Science of Styrofoam education event. On May 18th from 10:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. in the Graydon Pool parking lot, Ridgewood will be hosting a Styrofoam collection.

Earth Day and the Daffodil Festival will be on April 14th in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square from 11:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M.

Planning Board – Councilwoman Knudsen stated that Planning Board was canceled this past Tuesday.

Historic Preservation Commission – Councilwoman Knudsen stated that their meeting is canceled next week.

Master Plan – Councilwoman Knudsen stated that as a reminder, in the next week, postcards for the Visioning Process for the Master Plan will be delivered. She encouraged everyone to visit VisionRidgewood.org to take the survey to participate.

The Visioning Process is the very first step to the creation of a Master Plan. The Master Plan is a guidance document that sets goals, policies, and priorities for investing in the physical, environmental, economic, and social future of the community. It is an important forward-looking document for generations to come.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that when residents receive the postcard, if they are uncomfortable with computers they can contact Village Hall and request a hard copy survey, and mail it back to be collected and manually input by NV5.

Library Board – Councilwoman Walsh stated that the Ridgewood Library’s second Scoop Night will be tomorrow evening from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at Ben and Jerry’s. The Library will also be presenting it’s Budget Proposal at the Budget meeting on Friday.

Community Center Advisory Board – Councilman Voigt stated that the Community Center Advisory Board met last Thursday. An upcoming event is a session tomorrow evening titled ‘Medicare 101 for the Baby Boomer’ hosted by Age Friendly Ridgewood. Sheila Brogan is speaking on that topic from 6:30 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. in the Library.

On March 19th there is a session at the Library from 6:30 P.M. to 7:30 P.M on Elder Law. April 30th there is another session at the Library from 7:00 P.M. to 8:30 P.M. called ‘This Chair Rocks.’ The speaker is Ashton Applewhite who is a renowned speaker on Ageism.

Knights of Columbus – Councilman Voigt stated that the Knights of Columbus are having their annual Saint Patrick’s Day event on March 23rd at Mount Carmel Church from 7:00 P.M. to 11:00 P.M. Seats are still available and it is always a good event with great entertainment and food.

Ridgewood Arts Council – Councilwoman Knudsen asked everyone to join Ridgewood resident and ‘A Case of the Blue’ film director Dana Glaser as he speaks about the making of his upcoming film from 6:30 P.M. to 7:30 P.M. March 12th at the Upper Ridgewood Tennis Club. The Artist Talks are free and open to the public, for more information email rac@ridgewoodnj.net.

201 Magazine – Mayor Hache stated that 201 Magazines annual ‘Best in Bergen’ results came out, and Ridgewood was selected for Best Downtown and Best Special Town Event for the Fourth of July Fireworks.

Boards and Committees Volunteers – Ms. Mailander stated that the Village Council is looking for volunteers for Boards and Committees. The ad will be on the website, so if you are interested the deadline is March 19th.

5. SPECIAL PUBLIC MEETING - SEE SEPARATE MINUTES

Mayor Hache called for a motion to adjourn the Regular Work Session and convene the Special Public Meeting. There was a motion by Councilwoman Walsh to adjourn the Regular Work Session and Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.

There was a motion by Councilman Sedon to adjourn the Special Public Meeting and reconvene the Work Session. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES: Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None

A. PRESENTATION

a. Eagle Scout Project – Matthew Rusch

Mayor Hache stated that Matthew Rusch was going to share the details of his Eagle Scout Service Project. Nancy Bigos addressed the Village Council and stated that it was her pleasure to present Matthew Rusch who is a freshman at Ridgewood High School, and a Life Scout in Boy Scout Troop #7. They have worked together on preparing this proposal for the last couple of months and she is quite proud of what he is going to present this evening.

Mr. Rusch thanked the Village Council for allowing him to present this evening, adding that he is an aspiring Eagle Scout for Troop #7. For his project proposal they have designed a Veterans Memorial Site that he plans with the Village Council’s approval to put in the James Ten Hoeve Plaza. It will feature a chess table made out of stone and concrete with a stenciling checkerboard on top so that the individual tiles cannot come out. They will also be putting shrubs and hydrangeas into the soil plot nearby. They will also be imprinting a bronze plaque reading “For All Ridgewood Veterans…[Dedication Date].”

Mr. Rusch stated that the proposal includes a preliminary cost estimate for their materials, supplies, and tools. They are expecting it to cost approximately $1,470. If some of these supplies are donated, the fundraising will be less. He outlined the project phases and thanked the Village Council for the opportunity to present his project.

Councilman Voigt asked if Mr. Rusch had a place to donate if someone wanted to donate money in lieu of a garage sale. Mr. Rusch stated that at the garage sale they would have a place for people to come and donate. They are creating flyers to announce the sale to the public and it will be distributed through the scouts and their family and friends. Councilman Voigt asked if they had a date for the garage sale. Mr. Rusch stated that they are proposing the first three Saturdays in April to host a garage sale, as soon as the Northern New Jersey Council approves the project. Councilman Voigt asked where the garage sale would be. Mr. Rusch stated that the garage sale would be either at the Upper Ridgewood Community Church or at his house, 87 California Street.

The Village Council were very appreciative of his presentation, with Councilwoman Knudsen stating that Mr. Rusch did a great job presenting, and Mayor Hache thanking him for creating a project to honor our veterans. There was an individual who offered to donate the first $100 to the project.

B. DISCUSSION

a. Ridgewood Water

1. 2019 Revised Water Rates and Fees

Ms. Mailander stated that there are proposed increases in the Ridgewood Water Volume Rates and Fees associated with services provided by the utility. They are looking to incorporate these new rates and fees as of the third quarter billing cycle.

Richard Calbi, Director of Operations, stated that during the initial budget presentation last week, they went through a PowerPoint presentation which is now available on the Ridgewood Water website, along with all of the supporting documentation for the budget. The budget this year proposes the first budget rate increase since 2014 at 3%, raising the rate from $4.68 to $4.82 per 1000 gallons for 2019. It will be effective with the third quarter bill this year for all Ridgewood Water consumers, if approved. The increased rate was necessary to meet the new requirement in the Village’s surplus requirement that was set several years ago.

Mr. Calbi stated that additionally, they are also proposing an increase to new connection fees, which has not been changed since 2003. The current fee is $1,438 per new connection. As calculated by the Village Auditor, the new fee should be $3,575. This fee should be recalculated every year as it is based on the debt over all the years so that a new connection is put on the same standing as every other user in the system. If there is a vacant lot and they want to build a home on it that puts this connection on the same standing as all of the other connections that has been paying for this debt over all those years.

Mr. Calbi stated that the ordinances are drafted and to be proposed at the public meeting this month.

Councilman Sedon asked where the increase would put us in relation to Water Utilities in the area or close by. Mr. Calbi stated that he was trying to get the chart that they had last year from Howard Woods to present that in graphic form, but his belief is that they will still be in the middle. In last year’s graphic of the top 20 utilities in New Jersey, Ridgewood was in the middle and with this increase they will still be there.

Councilwoman Knudsen asked if this increase is only to generate the revenue required. Mr. Calbi stated that was correct. Councilwoman Knudsen asked if Mr. Calbi could go over how he calculates the connection fees. Mr. Calbi stated that they procured the services of the Village Auditor who looked at the audits and the budgets back to 2003. They added up the total capital and subtracted any gifts or grants that were provided to the Water Utility and then divided that sum by the total number of equivalent dwelling units that are in the system. Residential units are their base unit, but there are several commercial/industrial units, so they put all of the residential units so that they could have a unit to equate to that number.

Councilwoman Walsh stated that it says “actual cost of service, plus 20%, plus 35.75.” Mr. Calbi stated that the cost of service is the physical pipe and appurtenances that they have to provide to the contractor and then any labor that they have to provide to make that connection. Councilwoman Walsh stated that the ratepayer would also have to pay additional costs to a plumber to create the connection. Mr. Calbi stated that was correct.

2. Award Change Order – Professional Services for Ames Tank Rehabilitation

Ms. Mailander stated that this Change Order was for engineering services for the Ames Tank Rehabilitation. This Change Order No.1 to be awarded to the original contractor, D.J. Egarian & Associates, is required for additional construction administration and inspection engineering charges resulting from contractor schedule delays. These charges will be deducted from the contractor’s payment.

3. Award Change Order – Professional Services for Southside Reservoir Improvements

Ms. Mailander stated that this Change Order is being awarded to the original contractor which is D.J. Egarian & Associates in the amount of $8000. This extends the project completion date to March 30, 2019. This is required for additional construction administration and inspection engineering charges resulting from contractor schedule delays and the charges will be deducted from the contractor’s payment.

Councilwoman Knudsen asked if the work was done yet. Mr. Calbi stated that both tanks were full and back in operation but there were several small items that still had to be completed. They missed the initial completion date of January 15, 2019, so the consultant had to expend additional time in the field and they wanted to make sure that time was covered.

Councilwoman Knudsen asked when they anticipated the work being 100% complete. Mr. Calbi stated by the end of this month.

4. Award Change Order – Distribution Improvements & Lakeview Extension Study – Revised Resolution

Ms. Mailander stated that last month the Village Council adopted a resolution for Change Order No.3 for Distribution Improvements and the Lakeview Extension Study. The resolution was approved with funds being appropriated out of the Water Utility Operating Budget, but it is actually out of the Capital Budget, so they are going to readopt the resolution with the proper notification of the funding.

b. Parking

1. Proposed Ordinance to Restrict Parking – Sherman Place

Ms. Mailander stated that there is a proposed ordinance to restrict parking on Sherman Place. Chris Rutishauser, Village Engineer, stated that several months ago residents on Sherman Place contacted the Village seeking relief for the traffic and parking problems on the north portion of Sherman Place. Sherman Place has exiting traffic from the office building that operates at 88 West Ridgewood Avenue, which has a permitted exit onto Sherman Place. He has recently seen that there is a lot of traffic going in that exit from Sherman Place that is aggravating some of the conditions on that street.

Mr. Rutishauser stated that the ordinance utilizes a technique where the road is closed to traffic except for residents. The intent would be to close the street to northbound traffic to enter the parking lot for 88 West Ridgewood Avenue from 7:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M., all days except Sundays and holidays. This is already established in the Village Code for three other locations within the Village.

Councilman Voigt asked if people would be able to get into the parking lot from West Ridgewood Avenue. Mr. Rutishauser stated that they could, and it would still allow them to exit from Sherman Place. It is intended to stop the traffic that is coming into Sherman Place seeking to get into the parking lot. He also has a restriction of parking on the west side, which was discussed in the survey of the residents. He added that he feels it will work in combination with what he is proposing. The last part of the ordinance is to adjust the last two hour limit to match was it proposed for the north end of Sherman Place.

Councilman Sedon stated that if northbound traffic is closed no one would be able to park on that side of the street because it would be closed. Mr. Rutishauser stated that it was closed to everyone but the residents who live there. He added that guests of the homeowner would be permitted as well, which is included in the Code.

Councilman Voigt asked how this could be enforced aside from the good will of the person who decides to read the sign. Mr. Rutishauser stated that this would be a task for the Police Department, and the parking could be enforced by the Parking Enforcement Officers. The moving violations of going up that street would be the responsibility of the uniformed officers. He added that we would put up the signage and if that was ignored, then the Police Department would have to do an enforcement action.

Councilman Voigt stated that it seems to him that the easiest way to get to that parking lot is from Washington and going into Sherman, as opposed to going from West Ridgewood Avenue through the property. Mr. Rutishauser stated that they have gotten complaints that people are cutting through Sherman to go to West Ridgewood Avenue as well. Councilman Voigt asked if they would then make the parking lot one way. Mr. Rutishauser stated that was up to the property owner at that location, but what this intends to do is to dissuade a motorist from going north on Sherman.

Councilman Knudsen stated that some residents were at the meeting who had some questions, but maybe they could email Mr. Rutishauser and he could explain it to them. She asked about the parking being prohibited for certain hours, on the dead end part there would be no parking being on the west side. Mr. Rutishauser stated that he emailed with a group of residents last night but he did not release the ordinance because the policy is that the Village Council sees it first before it goes out to the public. Councilwoman Knudsen clarified the parking restrictions and the frontage along the road.

Councilwoman Knudsen asked what was changed on the other side of the street. Mr. Rutishauser stated that the current ordinance had a two hour parking limit from 8:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. all days except Sundays and holidays for both sides of Sherman Place. So, he had to eliminate the parking on the west side of Sherman Place but still maintain it on the west side, south of Washington Place.

Councilman Voigt asked how many spaces this would entail doing away with. Mr. Rutishauser stated that there was room for about six or seven cars. In his field visits he has seen numerous cars parked on both sides of the street, which validates some of the concerns that the residents expressed. Councilman Voigt stated that he would expect both sides of the street to be pretty packed. Mr. Rutishauser stated that it can be very tight when both sides of the street have parked vehicles. Councilman Voigt asked where he anticipated those six cars going. Mr. Rutishauser stated that would be the next challenge, because it just moves the problem to the next location, which then needs to be adjusted.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that a resident called her about this, and she asked if he would map this out so she could send it to that resident so that she can share it with her neighbors and they can understand exactly what the rules are if they have any comment. Mr. Rutishauser was in agreement and stated he would provide a sketch.

Councilwoman Walsh stated that she was trying to figure out what the people from Washington would do, as she was assuming there would be a sign for those coming down Washington. Mr. Rutishauser stated that it was going to be a “Do Not Enter” sign with a plate underneath with the conditions, similar to what it used in the other three streets. Councilwoman Walsh was shown a map to see where the street ran and how a driver could navigate.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that they would learn and continue straight, and all you are doing is sending them further up West Ridgewood Avenue. Mr. Rutishauser stated that they could be going towards GW or towards West Ridgewood Avenue to make a left turn. Councilwoman Walsh stated that she felt this was going to be a challenge. Councilwoman Knudsen asked that when Mr. Rutishauser made the map could he share it with the Village Council as well. Mr. Rutishauser stated that he would prepare a cover memo and refer to the Village Code.

Councilwoman Knudsen asked on the original site plan approval for the medical office if there was any stipulation to go back and look at that condition because her understanding is that everyone is using that parking lot as a road. Mr. Rutishauser stated that is a complaint they have gotten. He looked at the resolution but it went back about 25 years and there was no language for a look back provision. Councilwoman Knudsen asked if there were plans. Mr. Rutishauser stated that he would look for the file again, but it was relatively skimpy compared to what they see nowadays.

Mayor Hache stated that his question was regarding the guests, and if they would be able to exit through Sherman Place. Mr. Rutishauser stated that the traffic for the medical facility has to exit from that parking lot going south on Sherman Place. Mayor Hache stated that he wanted to make sure that they overcommunicate this and invite the residents in the area to come in and meet and talk through it and everyone understands what is being proposed. Mr. Rutishauser stated that he would prepare the cover memo and sketch, attach that with the ordinance, and then share that with the email group that has been in contact with him over the last couple of years. Ms. Mailander stated that would be fine for him to share. Councilman Voigt asked if Mr. Rutishauser could share that with CSAC. Mr. Rutishauser stated that he would.

2. Parking Kiosks

Ms. Mailander stated that Councilwoman Knudsen requested some information about the parking kiosks and what kind of activity it has had and Mr. Rooney would be going over this information with the Village Council.

Mr. Rooney stated that there are three areas where the kiosks were placed, beginning in October 2018. The revenue that was generated with the kiosk and the revenue that was generated without the kiosks was provided to the Village Council. The two in Cottage Place are comparable because he can identify the coins that were collected there in the past, as well as Parkmobile. He added that on North Broad Street they can’t distinguish what was collected on North Broad or Franklin as they are all placed in the same bucket. So, he compared what was collected from the kiosk to what he knows to be in that zone and that is Parkmobile. There were increases with the kiosk in those three areas. Mr. Rooney stated that on Chestnut, he can identify everything that came through there, and beginning in November 2017 the availability to pay with cash and credit cards allowed for another $20,000 in revenue whereas before there was only Parkmobile.

Councilman Voigt asked on the first page with and without kiosks what the time frame was. Mr. Rooney stated that it was October 2018 through January 2019. Councilman Voigt stated that looking at this data they should probably move aggressively with the rest of the downtown. Councilwoman Knudsen stated that it looked like something was wrong with the data. Mayor Hache stated that he would suspect that the significant improvement that they saw in Cottage Place, in some cases 465%, he thinks may have been caused during those months in 2017 when they had a large number of parking spots in that lot that were designated for CBD employees that were not being used. So, they were losing a significant amount of revenue at that time. He stated that now, on Broad Street, because they can enforce based on zones and not by spots, a lot of the parking charades that were happening there before are not taking place, and people are coming in and out and they are having the volume of parking that they should have had all along. Mayor Hache added that employees are not taking up spots on the street anymore.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that while she agrees that some of this is the obvious issues of parking charades, the number from January 2018 on North Broad Street to January of 2019 is such a big difference. She suggested seeing what 2017 looked like as they don’t have that data at that location in front of them. She stated that it was such a bazaar difference, and the December issue is probably less of an increase.

Councilwoman Walsh stated that the complaint that people have is that they have to put more money into the kiosk, so the Village is actually making money off the fact that they are putting in extra money. She added that two of the numbers are exactly the same, which may be due to an incorrect input. To go from $1,000 a month to $10,000 seems unbelievable. Mr. Rooney stated that something that could be done is to look at the number of transactions to make sure that they are valid. Councilwoman Walsh stated that people have been complaining that they have to put extra money in as they are still getting used to the kiosk. Councilwoman Knudsen stated that sometimes you do that on the meter.

Mr. Rooney stated that there was an impact in there for a rate increase. Councilwoman Walsh added that they would need to look at transactions.

Councilman Voigt stated that this looks good for the Village from the Parking Utility standpoint, and looking at an increase next year for the parking rates to $1.00 an hour, and this is making him look at maybe they don’t need to do that. He added that it would be nice for them to be able to understand and maybe project for the rest of the Village in the CBD, what that would mean from a cash flow standpoint so that they wouldn’t have to increase the parking rates next year. Mayor Hache stated that was part of the justification for the kiosks, as what they could do today to build up that reserve in cash, but also generate enough income to negate the necessity to increase it any further. Councilman Voigt added it would be a good exercise for them to understand if they did this for the rest of the Village, what that would mean in a cash flow standpoint whenever they were able to do this.

Councilwoman Walsh stated that she pulled into North Broad Street and used Parkmobile, not the kiosk. She asked how Mr. Rooney would extrapolate the transactions. Mayor Hache stated that a number of the tenants in one of the buildings were parking on the street all day, and they didn’t start parking off site until this happened, so there was no chance of that turnover to happen. The collection rates are significantly higher because of the turnover, and because the enforcement is done by zone and not by spots. He added that you may park by Parkmobile or the kiosk, but it still shows that the addition of the kiosk in that zone is contributing.

Councilwoman Knudsen asked if they would be able to get the data broken out in that manner, as the system is computerized and should be able to tell them down to the penny. Mr. Rooney stated that Parkmobile and the kiosk provide him with a lot of data, and it is a matter of taking that data and putting it into a form that can coordinate with this. He added that he will take a stab at it and see what he can do about projecting the impact it would have if they had kiosks in other areas. Councilwoman Walsh stated that she thinks what he is going to find is that one parking spot is being paid for multiple times. Mr. Rooney stated he would massage this into what makes sense and put it in a better format so that they could compare it and see what makes sense.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that to Councilwoman Walsh’s point, when she says that a parking spot is being paid for over and over again, it would be fair to say that a person is paying for their time parking. With the kiosk you are paying for the parking that you are actually working, rather than adopting any time that is left on the meter. She added that on the Chestnut lot, when did they resolve the issue with Parkmobile and the money that as being withdrawn from the Village end. Mr. Rooney stated that it was in August, and that would have had an impact. He added he would come back with an additional analysis so they could take a better look at the numbers.

Councilman Sedon stated that with all of the changes in rates and employee spots, it is difficult to nail down an accurate number. He could pay with Parkmobile and pay for 3 hours but stay 15 minutes, and then someone could pull in right behind him and pay for that spot again. This is also what happens with the kiosk. He added that they need to find a good control area, such as the Prospect lot. Cottage Place had the employee spots that were unused for a while, so to nail down an accurate number is difficult. Councilman Sedon stated that if they went back a few years to compare the meters with Parkmobile and see if they switch Prospect Street and put in the kiosks, they would give the same results. They could then get those results and compare them with 2014 to get an accurate number when it was just parking meters. He suggested coming up with a control area to compare with the past.

Councilwoman Knudsen asked how quickly they could transition to kiosks throughout the CBD. Mr. Rooney stated that he would have to check with Signal as to what their availability is to remove meters, but he could have kiosks in a couple of weeks. Ms. Mailander stated that in the budget, they allocated ten kiosks which probably don’t complete everything. Mr. Rooney stated that they could do the lots entirely, and they talked about changing the meters at Van Neste for coin purposes, but he could look and see what the needs would be. He added that he has a call with Callay and Epic to talk about the garage and at that time he can ask what their configuration would be for how many they would need.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that because this is so fascinating, she is looking at the North Broad January 2018 without and then January 2019 with. Could they get a count on meter heads on the January 2019 without that were there that were included in that number. She added that would be helpful for comparison as well as on the Cottage Annex. Mr. Rooney agreed.

Mayor Hache stated that looking at the details for Chestnut Street lot, the numbers are less jarring with 26% total one year. Then in the months where they implemented the kiosks, there were great numbers but not as significant as the ones on the first page. He can imagine it is because Chestnut was always an app or kiosk based system. Mr. Rooney stated that people that don’t have the app are more inclined to go there because they can pay with cash or credit card.

Councilman Voigt stated that the access has increased the demand for that. Mr. Rooney agreed. Councilman Sedon stated that he can attest to that, as with the kiosk he has parked at Chestnut but before the kiosk he would have never parked there. Mayor Hache stated that looking at these numbers a year from now the numbers may become more normalized.

Mr. Rooney stated that they have an enormous amount of data and it is a matter of putting it into something that makes sense.

Councilman Voigt stated that it would be nice to know on that eleven hour space at 75 cents, if they were making more than eleven times 75. Then they would know if people are overpaying for it. Councilwoman Knudsen stated that some people are overpaying, but conversely some people aren’t paying. Councilwoman Walsh stated that there aren’t numbered spaces. So, when you pull in it is by the license plate and zone, so you could have a CBD pass in a lot in Chestnut and you wouldn’t fall into either of those two categories.

Mr. Rooney stated that to Councilman Sedon’s point, Prospect Street is the only one that has something consistent to it and it would be a good baseline. Mr. Rooney stated that they could have the numbers available early next week.

c. Budget

1. Tonnage Grant Resolution

Ms. Mailander stated that this is an annual resolution which allows the Village to apply for a recycling tonnage grant through the NJDEP. The grant we receive will be used for recycling purposes.

2. Award Contract – Installation, Repair and Service of Various Equipment for Police Vehicles

Ms. Mailander stated that bids were received in May last year, and one bid package was received. Regional Communications of Paramus was the sole bidder. The contract permitted a renewal of the second year upon agreement by all parties. This is for furnishing, delivery, and maintenance of patrol equipment for Police, Fire and Emergency Services.

3. Award Second Year Contract – Police Vehicle Lease/Maintenance Program

Ms. Mailander stated that the Village leases vehicles through Enterprise, and this has been very beneficial. This is to lease five administrative and detective cars and maintenance of one patrol Tahoe. This program has been one of the better programs we have developed within the Police Department for the acquisition and maintenance of vehicles at an affordable rate. This program has been cost effective and efficient and they would like to continue with it. The total cost is not to exceed $30,000.

4. Award Contract – 2019 Concession Refreshment Service at Graydon Pool

Ms. Mailander stated that they went out for bid in February and there was one sole bidder from Michael Sims of Mellsworth Foods of Ramsey. He has been the Water’s Edge Café provider for the past four years with excellent service and patron compliments. The award is recommended for 2019 in an amount of $9,500 that they will pay the Village.

5. Award Contract – Furnishing and Delivering of Cured in Place Pipe Lining Services at Demarest Pump Station and Graydon Park Storm Sewer Lines

Ms. Mailander stated that they had a failure at the Demarest Pump Station which was due to an inflow/infiltration issue with the pipeline leading to the station and necessitated emergency bypass of the pump station. The second portion of the work is to assist Ridgewood Water Company at the Linwood Well, currently being re-drilled. There was one bid received from North American Pipeline Services with a quote of $176,248.20 paid out of a Capital Account and from the Water Account.

6. Award State Contract – Various Computer Equipment for MIS

Ms. Mailander stated that this was for the purchase of servers and replacement of desktops. The server for the ESRI project which is GIS and mapping for the Village and Ridgewood Water, and some ruggedized laptops are for water techs that are out in the field, and then to replace desktops that are throughout the Village.

7. Award Contract – Senior Bus Purchase

Ms. Mailander stated that the bus is getting older and it does break down more than it did in the past. It has been maintained very well, however, it is time for us to purchase a new one. They received two bids. The apparent low bid was received from Alliance Bus in Carlstadt with a quote of $64,480. The second low bidder was Rohrer Enterprises with a quote of $65,030. Both bidders submitted complete bid packages with all necessary information, however, each bidder took exceptions.

Rohrer took one exception the time of delivery as they can supply the bus in 135 calendar days. Alliance took a number of exceptions to the technical specifications in the bid document. In reviewing the Alliance bus exceptions, it appears their bus is of a lesser quality than the one specified in the bid and met by Rohrer. A key area of exception is in the level of safety testing the Rohrer bus is subject to, versus the Alliance bus. The Alliance bus has smaller windows, a lesser method of corrosion protection, less insulation, and a slightly higher step to get into the bus.

Subject to Mr. Rogers’ concurrence, Mr. Rutishauser is recommending the award of the bid to Rohrer Bus Sales, as their only exception is the length and time of the delivery.

Councilman Voigt asked if once the order is placed would it be approximately four months. Ms. Mailander stated that it would be 135 days. Councilman Voigt asked if this was to be approved next week. Ms. Mailander stated that was correct, and then they could issue the contract and then the order will be placed. Councilman Voigt asked if it could be expected in July. Ms. Mailander stated that it would be approximately July or August. Councilman Voigt asked if this is built to order. Ms. Mailander stated that the Village has specs and they are going to comply with the specs.

8. Award Contract – Outsourcing Yardwaste

Mr. Rutishauser stated that the Village bid out yard waste collection services to see what it costs, and then have the ability to compare it to what the Village’s costs are to provide that service. It was bid out to pick up the yard waste from the middle of April for 27 weeks to October 15th, and then to pick up containerized yard waste curbside from after October 16th to the end of December. It is something that people are in favor of, as they want to clean up their yard and the next pickup schedule is a week and a half away, so they want them collected once a week.

There were three plan holders, and one responding bidder from JSI Galaxy Carting, quoting $544,000 for both services. In looking at the Village’s expenses, the labor runs about $114,000 a year, repairs are $30,000, fuel is $18,000, and this year tipping fees for disposing of the grass clippings is expected to go up to $100,000. The total operating cost is around $270,000 a year and they also asked in the Capital Budget for an additional sanitation truck at approximately $300,000. Adding the sanitation truck in, they are at what they were quoted from JSI Galaxy.

Councilman Sedon stated that if they purchase the sanitation truck, then they would have it for the next twenty years. Mr. Rutishauser stated that it is a capital expense, and it may not last 20 years. Councilman Sedon stated that his point is that their cost to outsource is $544,000 and the annual cost for the Village is $270,000 so it wouldn’t make sense to do it.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that it is reminiscent of the leaf collection. Mr. Rutishauser stated that currently they have a vendor that picks up the leaves in one section of the Village, and last year it didn’t work that well. Councilwoman Knudsen stated that they ended up paying considerably more than it started at. Mr. Rutishauser stated that last year the cost did go up. Ms. Mailander stated that it has gone up every year, as the contractor now understands what is involved and it does go up every year.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that it didn’t make a lot of sense to outsource, so they should just continue as they are in her opinion. There was consensus among the Village Council. Councilwoman Knudsen asked if Mr. Rutishauser could send the packet on the yard waste outsourcing to the Village Council.

 

9. Review of Resolution and Related Documents to Introduce 2019 Budget

Ms. Mailander stated that the Village Council is going to introduce the Budget next week, March 13th, with a Public Hearing and adoption scheduled for April 10th. Mr. Rooney stated that would be a culmination of the meetings they have had, and they will introduce the capital ordinance of everything that has been approved. There will be a resolution for a temporary amendment to the Capital Budget, and then the Cap ordinance which is consistent with every other year where they identify what the cap limitation is going forward.

10. Award Contract – Maintenance of Irrigation Systems/Water Fountains

Ms. Mailander stated that this was for the Parks and Recreation Department. They accepted proposals and four submissions were received. It is being recommended that the contract be awarded to Green-Way Irrigation of Midland Park. The previous contractor did not provide quality service, they didn’t have the technical knowledge, and constant direction was required from Village employees to get the work completed satisfactorily.

Councilwoman Knudsen asked, based on the information that was provided, how it was determined that Green-Way Irrigation was better than Sprinkler Guy, because it seems to her that the Sprinkler Guy pricing was in many instances less than Green-Way. Ms. Bigos stated that she did consult with her staff on this as these are the guys that work directly with the irrigation systems. Within the last 12 years they have used about ten different vendors, and when you work with these guys on a daily basis you get to know the pros and cons and the quality of service that they provide. The recommendation came forward to go with Green-Way Irrigation based on their reputation, the number of employees, and their response time.

Councilwoman Knudsen asked if the Village ever worked with Sprinkler Guy LLC. Ms. Bigos stated that they had not. Councilwoman Knudsen asked what the value of the total contract is for this and the value of the work that is going to be done. Ms. Bigos stated that it was between $17,000 and $19,000 and the variables are weather permitting, use of the field, equipment, and response time.

Councilman Voigt stated that it does look like one is less expensive, but he is assuming that in aggregate they are all about the same. Ms. Bigos stated that it was very close and it was based on reputation, previous experience, and references from the field itself.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she can see how an aggregate is very close, but the difference is pretty significant when she is looking at it, and she was wondering if they saw the references that Ms. Bigos is talking about. Ms. Bigos stated that it was all phone conversations. Mr. Rogers stated that he would talk to Ms. Bigos and where this fell within the bidding process.

d. Policy

1. Accept Donation – Repair of Stone Wall at Entrance to Citizen’s Park

Ms. Mailander stated that on New Years Eve in 2018 a car went through the sign and stone wall in Citizens Park. This project includes rebuilding the wall, and is being donated by Horizon Landscaping Company, and is estimated at $1,500. Horizon Landscaping Company does not have any applications before any Boards and Committees, and the Village is fortunate to have this potential donation.

Councilwoman Walsh asked why the insurance of the person who drove into the wall isn’t paying for it. Ms. Mailander stated that she would look into whether the Village went to the insurance company to replace the wall. She added she would check with the person who processes those claims. Councilwoman Walsh stated that it was nice that they were donating it, but she would expect the insurance to cover it. There was a comment that the driver was uninsured.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that if the driver is uninsured is there an action against the driver. Ms. Mailander stated that she is sure they do, but if they are uninsured there may be nothing to collect from them. She added that if they cannot get money from the person who was driving the vehicle, was the Village Council willing to accept this gift. There was agreement among the Village Council.

2. Authorization to Execute NJDEP Treatment Works Approval – 275 North Murray Avenue

Ms. Mailander stated that the residents at this location had a failure in the septic system. They were required to make a connection to the Village’s sanitary sewer collection system. The connection entailed construction of a lateral in North Murray Avenue to the nearest receiving manhole past several adjoining properties. The lateral was constructed at the resident’s cost. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection has required a Treatment Works Approval. So, Mr. Rutishauser needs approval to prepare and sign the various TWA permit applications for this connection.

Councilwoman Knudsen asked if the road had to be taken up and repaired. Mr. Rogers stated that the line was put in by a private party, so the Village hasn’t spent any money on it, but in order to accept it there are three or four other property owners in that area that are all on septics as well, so this is a precondition to working that through.

e. Operations

1. Review of Kings Pond Park Improvements

Ms. Mailander stated that Nancy Bigos and Chris Rutishauser would come up, as this was done last Fall when they showed the Village Council what they would apply for with grant funding from the County. They also met with Lakeview residents, and decided to bring it back again because some neighboring residents on adjacent streets wanted to know what was going on.

Mr. Rutishauser stated that they got the DEP permit for the flood hazard area individual permit. They still have a few minor permits to get, but this was a major hurdle to dredging Kings Pond. The permit is quite lengthy with a lot of conditions, among the key ones is where any dredge materials will go. They also have to do some testing on the material to see if there is any contamination.

Councilman Voigt asked what it means if the pond is contaminated. Mr. Rutishauser stated they would have to cross that bridge when they get to it and see what the laboratory results determine it is and where the DEP determines it can go. There are a lot of different contaminants out there.

Ms. Bigos stated that the Village has been fortunate in the past in regard to the funding mechanism with the Bergen County Open Space Trust Fund and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Green Acres. So, in using this information and funding mechanism within the last few years, the Village has been fortunate to purchase and develop major park properties. In looking at this project and redeveloping Kings Pond Park, this was brought to the attention of the Village by some of the neighbors in that area. They asked to focus some attention on a restoration or redesign of this incredible property that the Village of Ridgewood has that is just sitting. They have considered many variables when it comes to park design, and the amenities that you have including the property, topography. Then also think of the use and how to best design the park for that. She added that they try to marry active and passive recreation.

Ms. Bigos stated that they are currently halfway between their first phase that they shared when they met with some of the residents in the area in early May. They are doing the utility work, studies, and investigation right now. They have conferred with an ecologist from Rutgers University, and are looking to have the brook dredged. Engineering has worked on completing and submitting the DEP permit application, and have studied the eradication of the invasive. She added that they have been able to identify some grasses, wild ivy, and roses. Ms. Bigos stated that these are things that are not indigenous to the area and disrupt the ecological habitat. Hopefully, in the spring they will be able to move forward and start with the actual boundaries of the park as they are looking to put in the curbing, runoff swells, excavation and re-pavement of the street, and the two parking lots.

Ms. Bigos stated that there will be two parking lots in the area, each of them will hold eight parking spaces, and one of those at each location will be ADA compliant. They have also used the arborist to come in and to complete a tree evaluation, looking at the structure of the trees. One of the important parts of that, was identifying the fact that the willows that were there are invasive to the area with shallow roots and thin wood. For safety, those were the first things that came down. They will hopefully be able to move forward and accomplish a great deal when the weather breaks and be able to file for the Bergen County Open Space grant.

Councilwoman Knudsen asked if this was up on the website. Ms. Mailander stated that they would put up the design. Councilwoman Knudsen added that on social media when the trees came down, there was quite the uproar and it took awhile to explain to people that they were invasive and created more problems than benefit. So, she felt it was important to have that information on the website for people to understand it is a positive moving forward. Ms. Mailander stated that she and Ms. Bigos have been over there a number of times and the residents are thrilled that the willows are down as it looks better and is not so much of a danger any more.

2. Proposed Sidewalk Closure on South Broad Street

Ms. Mailander stated that this is in the area of Garden Homes. They are requesting a closure to protect pedestrians as they perform footings and foundation work. They have a pedestrian re-routing plan, along with signage. Mr. Rutishauser finds the plan acceptable. The anticipated duration is three to four months as the work proceeds.

Councilman Voigt asked if the pedestrians were going to cross at their own risk. Ms. Mailander stated that was correct. They would cross to the other side of the street.

6. REVIEW OF MARCH 13, 2019 PUBLIC MEETING AGENDA

Ms. Mailander stated that this was a review of the March 13, 2019 Public Meeting Agenda.

Proclamations include: Proclaim March Red Cross Month; Proclaim March Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month; and National Poison Prevention Week.

2019 Budget Introduction and Resolution.

Ordinances for Ridgewood Water: 3708 – Amend Chapter 269 – Water Service Connections; and 3709 – Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Ridgewood Water Utility.

Resolutions for Ridgewood Water: Award Sole Source Contract – Corrosion Control Inhibitor; Award Contract under National Joint Powers Alliance Program and Rescind Resolution #19-43 – Purchase of Backhoe Loader; Authorize Change Order – SCADA System Software; Authorize Change Order – Professional Services for Ames Tank Rehabilitation; Authorize Change Order – Professional Services for Southside Reservoir Improvements; and Authorize Change Order – Professional Services for Booster/Transfer Station Improvements.

The following ordinances are scheduled for introduction: 3710 – 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.; 3711 – Amend Chapter 244 – Smoking; 3712 – Amend Chapter 186 – Landscapers and Landscaping Services; 3713 – Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Landscapers and Landscaping Services; 3714 – Amend Chapter 156 – Food and Food Handling Establishments – Outdoor Cafes; and 3715 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Parking Restrictions on Sherman Place.

Ordinances for Public Hearing include: 3704 – Amend Chapter 156 – Outdoor Café Ordinance; 3705 – Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Significant Sewer Discharger Fees; 3706 – Amend Chapter 133 – Refuse Containers; and 3707 – Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Refuse Containers.

Resolutions include: Endorse Submission of Recycling Tonnage Grant; Title 59 Approval – Resurfacing and Repair of Various Village Streets; Award Partial Contract – Resurfacing and Repair of Various Village Streets; Title 59 Approval – Cured in Place Pipe Lining Services – Demarest Pump Station and Graydon Park Storm Sewer Line; Award Contract – Cured in Place Pipe Lining Services – Demarest Pump Station and Graydon Park Storm Sewer Line; Title 59 Approval – Concession Refreshment Services – Graydon Pool; Award Contract – Concession Refreshment Services – Graydon Pool; Title 59 Approval – Installation, Services and Repair – Police, Fire, and Emergency Services Vehicles and Radios; Award Contract – Installation, Service and Repair – Police, Fire, and Emergency Services Vehicles and Radios; Title 59 Approval – Senior Bus; Award Contract – Senior Bus; Title 59 Approval Leasing and Maintenance of Police Vehicles; Award Contract – Leasing and Maintenance of Police Vehicles; Award Contract Under State Contract – Various Computer Equipment for Ridgewood Water and I.T. Department; Award Professional Services Contract – Upgrade and Maintain SCADA System – Water Pollution Control Facility; Authorize Change Order – Village Hall HVAC System; Award Emergency Contract – Demarest Pump Station; Award Emergency Contract – Andover Pump Station; Approve Berm Designs for Schedler Park Property; Approve Patio and Parking Lot Design for Schedler Park Property; Accept Donation – Stonewall at Citizen’s Park; Approve Eagle Scout Project – Stone Chess Table “For All Veterans” on James Ten Hoeve Plaza; and Appoint Member to Parks, Recreation and Conservation Board.

7. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

Fran Loshin, 354 McKinley Place, stated that she was really glad to see that the park is getting attention, especially the invasive species. She hopes that everyone knows that is really just one side of the park, it is a big park and the main entrance to the other side of the park is right across from her house. They have to look at it as a whole and fix the invasive species in the whole park. She added that before they add a playground, she thinks that the priority should be making sure that the foundation of the park and the natural habitat really is intact.

Traci Tozzi, 17 Sherman Place, stated that after she heard Mr. Rutishauser’s remarks she wanted to state that a majority of the traffic comes from the Doctor’s office and spills over onto Sherman Place. It has gotten progressively worse over the 18 years that she has lived there. People leaving the Doctor’s office will not see the restriction, and only people coming in from Washington Place will see that signage. People going out of the Doctor’s office will make the U-turn and go on the other side, and then they will have nowhere else to go but to make another U-turn to exit the street. She added that a lot of the people that go to that office try to avoid paying the parking on West Ridgewood Avenue because it is free to park on Sherman Place. Ms. Tozzi added that allowing parking on both sides would be fine, but the bad part is the funneling of the traffic and individuals are parking so close that she can barely get out of her driveway.

Bill Bond, 335 Kensington Drive, stated that he was there as a representative of the Ridgewood Baseball Softball Association (RBSA) regarding batting cages at Veterans Field. The cages were taken down last fall due to exceeding their useful life and they were a safety hazard. He was tasked with coming up with a new design proposal, and he met with Chris Rutishauser to discuss the project. Nancy Bigos was also very instrumental and they met with the Park and Recreation Committee who provided guidance and comments. They also met with the Fields committee earlier this week. In every instance they got approval.

Mr. Bond stated that they will essentially use the same footprint, but be narrower with a larger passageway behind it. He added that it would be more aesthetically pleasing due to the design and would be safer. They anticipate that they would have three hitting areas which would increase the utilization by the girls’ softball, boy’s baseball, and all residents who would use it, as well. They do not have enough batting cages given the people that are in the program, and most towns would have six or eight. Currently there are only three, but this would increase it to four cages. The cost will be covered by RBSA, and they look forward to getting the appropriate building permits as the next phase comes. He hopes that they would be installed in the coming weeks, as time is of the essence.

Councilwoman Knudsen asked if it has to be accepted by resolution. Ms. Mailander stated that since it is a donation she would think so. Councilwoman Knudsen stated that they should get a copy of the plan so that they can appropriately accept this thoughtful gift. Mr. Bond stated that it is a replacement of what is there and time is of the essence. Councilwoman Knudsen stated that they could get that moved forward.

Mr. Rogers asked what the cost would be for the cages. Mr. Bond stated that it would be between $12,000 to $20,000. Mr. Rogers stated that was something that the Village Council would need to know. Councilwoman Knudsen requested that Mr. Rutishauser and Ms. Bigos provide any necessary information so that they can do this correctly by adopting a resolution. There was consensus among the Village Council that they were in favor of this donation.

Thomas Giordano, stated that he was one of the representatives for Joseph Smentkowsky, who was the lowest bidder for the outsource of the grass and leaves recycling. He stated that it was for the collection and disposal, adding that they were the lowest bidder for the grass collection and disposal and he wanted to see if he could bring the Village Council up to speed as to why they should move toward outsourcing. He added that he spoke with Mr. Rutishauser before the bids came out, as this is one of the first times that the Village is putting out for outsourcing of grass and leaf collection.

Mr. Giordano stated that his collection, and driving the streets to pick up the yard waste would actually cost the Village less. With the collection right now, they are using two vehicles with three guys on each truck, bringing it back to the yard, dumping it, trans-loading it, and taking a separate truck to bring it to a disposal site. So, the costs are actually a bit higher. He stated with their costs, they charge for the collection which would save the Village a tremendous amount of money. The problem with the bid that came out is that the disposal is not a concrete cost, it is just an estimated cost. That means that they don’t have exact numbers of what the disposal costs are going to be for the Village for the grass and leaves. Mr. Rutishauser has the bidders’ approximate numbers and wants the company to guess how much grass the company would be disposing of.

Mr. Giordano stated that they would pay only on the cost that they were going to dispose of, rather than the way the bid was written where they have to guess how much the disposing would be for the year. He believes the Village has been doing this for the last several years, so their collection cost of going up and down the streets ends up a lesser amount than the Village is doing now. Brand new trucks are going for over $250,000 and that is if you buy more than one vehicle at a time. He added that garbage collection trucks don’t last 20 years, as the average life is three to five years before maintenance becomes more than overwhelming. You also have insurance costs at $20,000 per truck to insure one of the recycling collection vehicles. Mr. Giordano stated that he would like to come in and set up a program where the Village handles the disposal. There would be a different outcome instead of having the bidder estimate it.

Gary Giordano, stated that his company just bought five new trucks to get the lower price at $248,000 for 2019 vehicles. There is a three to five year maximum or minimum on the trucks. He added that with the collection, the Village numbers are diluted because they weren’t all put into the package.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that this is part of a bid, and what they are discussing are components of a bid that may not have gone out correctly, and she asked Mr. Rogers if this was opening up a can or worms if this goes out to bid again. Mr. Rogers stated that after the comments were completed he was going to tell the Village Council to hold off on questions so that he could discuss it with Mr. Rutishauser. Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she didn’t want to compromise anyone’s ability to fairly bid on anything.

Mr. Giordano stated that the Village didn’t get all of the numbers because there are three men on a truck as they run two trucks. The material is collected and then dumped at the yard where it is loaded up onto another vehicle and then it is brought to a dump to get rid of it and he didn’t think those costs were included. He added that they don’t know what the dump rate is, as it keeps going up and if they take it over it isn’t the Village’s cost anymore. They had to shoot in the dark because they didn’t have any numbers. He added that they do 23 towns in Bergen, Essex, and Hudson counties, and they have an idea of what the average tonnage could be or should be. The only problem is that this industry changes on a dime.

Mr. Giordano stated that the people operating these vehicles are part-timers, and that doesn’t include workman’s comp, insurance, and all of the other expenses that goes along with them. His brother was trying to explain that it is an RFP for recycling, meaning that it is not under the statute of public contracting bids, so the Village has the right after they come into the first bid to negotiate. He added that they could come in at their time and expense and educate the department on their knowledge of doing this at no cost to the town. Cliffside Park went out to bid three times, and the third time they awarded because they were doing it in house and wanted to keep it in house. He added that workman’s comp for his employees just went up to $125 per man per day.

Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that he was interested in the conversation regarding the parking kiosks because he is a big proponent of putting the kiosks throughout the municipality. One of the primary reasons that he is a proponent of that is because of the cash control. Moving to the parking kiosk tightens that up as cash is not in as many spots. He urged the Village Council to move as quickly as possible to get the kiosks in the entire Village and eliminate as many meters as they possibly can. It sounds like based upon the numbers, in every case the kiosks are producing more revenue than the meters or Parkmobile, so to him it is a no brainer.

Mayor Hache closed public comments, but added that he wanted to give Mr. Rogers a chance to address the comments made by the Mr.’s. Giordano tonight. Mr. Rogers stated that they would talk to Mr. Rutishauser about it. Councilwoman Knudsen stated that they did not have the benefit of the documents when they got to the meeting so she looked forward to an opportunity to review them.

8. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION

Deputy Village Clerk, Donna Jackson read Resolution #19-64 to go into Closed Session as follows:

 

9. ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Sedon, seconded by Councilman Voigt, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Work Session was adjourned at 9:55 P.M.

 

 

 

 

______________________________
Ramon M. Hache, Sr.
Mayor

 

 

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Donna M. Jackson
Deputy Village Clerk