20200701 - Reorganization Meeting Minutes
A REORGANIZATION 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, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY ON JULY 1, 2020 AT 12:00 P.M.
- CALL TO ORDER – OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS ACT – ROLL CALL – FLAG SALUTE
Mayor Hache called the meeting to order at 12:01 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.
- INVOCATION – REVEREND MONSIGNOR RONALD J. ROZNIAK – OUR LADY OF MOUNT CARMEL CHURCH
The invocation was given by Reverend Monsignor Ronald J. Rozniak of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Roman Catholic Church who blessed the Councilmembers.
- COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, thanked Mayor Hache for four years of service and wished him all the best moving forward. She also thanked everyone who took the time and put in the effort to run for Village Council, and congratulated Lorraine Reynolds and Pamela Perron on being elected to the Village Council. In addition, Ms. Loving congratulated Councilwoman Walsh who has been elected to her third term, which is true dedication and much appreciated.
There were no additional comments from the public.
- APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Mayor Hache moved that the Village Council meeting minutes of October 2, 2019, and February 5, February 21, February 26, March 4, April 15, April 22, May 6, May 13, May 21, May 27, June 3, June 10, and June 17, 2020 having been reviewed by the Council and now available in the Village Clerk’s office be approved as submitted. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- REMARKS BY COUNCILMAN JEFFREY VOIGT
Councilman Voigt stated that he has enjoyed his four years on the Village Council and has a number of people to thank. He thanked the people who helped him get elected, including Kevin and Carol Mattessich, Jack Chadwick, Sergio Alegre, Wendy Dougherty, Dana Glazer, and his wife Patty. He thanked the residents who voted for him, and he said that he would look out for their best interests, including spending their money wisely. He tried his best to live up to those promises, he enjoyed and respected everyone’s perspectives, even when they disagreed. He thanked Ramon Hache and Bernie Walsh for their stability and willingness to listen. He thanked those in Village Hall for their work on his behalf, including Heather Mailander, Donna Jackson, Eileen Young, Beth Spinato, Chris Rutishauser, Rich Calbi, Nancy Bigos, Janet Fricke, Dawn Cetrulo, Sue, Deanna Schablik, Margie Downes, Chief Luthcke, Sergeant Chuck, Chief Van Goor, Bob Rooney, Nancy Greene, and the entire Library staff. He then listed all of the people that he enjoyed working with throughout the Village.
Councilman Voigt thanked the Bolger family for their generosity with the renovation of the Library. He empathized with past elected Councilmembers and had a majority of conversations understanding the issues they faced, how they dealt with them, and advice they had given. They may not always agree, but they always look forward to their next conversation. He added that he appreciated the Village residents who had gotten themselves involved in the Village issues, and he listed the individuals including Paul Vagianos, John Saraceno, Rurik Halaby, Jeannie Theisen, Hans Lehman, Jeanne Johnson, Leo Ferrante, Bob Hutton, and Denise Lima. He asked them to continue their activism to provide another perspective on issues. They most especially need this activism at the Village Council meetings, which have become myopic.
Councilman Voigt stated that according to the Constitution, good government is intended to provide a public and political arena in which arguments about opposing and different viewpoints can continue in a considered fashion. Without this decision making, they would be making faulty and biased determinations.
Councilman Voigt stated that he wanted to take the opportunity to recount some worthy and notable successes. He is proud of the fact that they finally built the garage, but he wishes that the foot dragging on this initiative hadn’t taken three years, as due to the foot dragging it cost the town another $1.8 million in additional debt payments based on higher bond rates. The garage should have been job one for the Village Council in 2016, and unfortunately it was not, costing the Village additional money it didn’t have to spend. They were also able to provide a park for the east side of town at the Schedler property, and he knows the residents appreciate their efforts. He added that he was proud of the way they increased the Emergency Medical Services revenues by over $300,000 which he helped put in place, based on his expertise in healthcare reimbursement.
Councilman Voigt stated that he was proud of the Financial Advisory Committee as they had extremely talented and accomplished people on this committee. Committees like this do important work, however, all of the members of this committee resigned when their tasks became administrative in nature after it was taken over by others for oversight. He doesn’t blame them for resigning, and ironically they could be helping now, given the challenges that the Village faces given the budget shortfalls and expense appropriations. He said the same about the Community Relations Advisory Board (CRAB), which was ultimately disbanded for political reasons. This board provided useful insights to those who felt disenfranchised, which is an important purpose of government to help those on the margins of society. He was glad they were able to reorganize and reassemble, and he only wishes them well.
Councilman Voigt stated that the key to effective leadership is to embrace differences and include them in decision making, not discard them. Regarding public safety, the work on the West Glen sidewalks from Oak Street to North Monroe Street should improve the safety of our pedestrians. Additionally, the speed sign on North Walnut Street solves an issue of speeding and has made the neighborhood safer. Likewise, allocating money in this year’s budget for an intersection upgrade to the intersection of North Monroe Street and West Glen Avenue should improve the safety of the intersection. Councilman Voigt is pleased to have worked closely with Citizen Safety Advisory Committee members, which he regards as one of the more productive and useful committees in the Village.
Councilman Voigt stated that before finishing, he wanted to share his thoughts on the unfinished business of the town, and specifically how we communicate with each other. There are members of the town who have come together to support residents who have been disenfranchised, and this has made the Village a better place. This includes the LGBTQ community, Martin Luther King, and our military. He will miss this aspect of Village Council responsibilities.
One of his main concerns relates to social media. Recently, a member appointed by the Village Council to an important volunteer committee, used Facebook to publicly make ugly, defamatory, and life threatening remarks about a resident and incited similar remarks from others. These actions by the Committee member were referred to the Village Council, and unfortunately nothing was done, as it turned into a political issue. Those chosen to serve on committees are a reflection of the Councilmembers and the Village, they are a mirror of character and ethics. He feels that this committee member should have been removed from their committee position, and he found this a poor reflection of who we are as a Village. Councilman Voigt stated that they, as a Village Council, failed miserably for this resident who was called names, as one of the responsibilities of government is to protect citizens when they are most vulnerable, which did not happen here.
Councilman Voigt stated that what he has found as it relates to social media, is that the biggest problem is not maliciousness, but ignorance. Discussion and knowing are key to solving this. This takes sharing information, spending time with what one doesn’t understand, and being the voice of the oppressed. He quoted Elie Wiesel, stating that “what hurts the victim most is not the cruelty of the oppressor, but the silence of the bystander.” We all have a responsibility to speak up about this type of behavior as it hurts not only us, but how others perceive us. We are a better town than these types of people. Councilman Voigt stated that he was optimistic about some of the initiatives that are being undertaken by citizens to ensure better and more transparent government. One such initiative, is One Village, One Vote, by a group of dedicated citizens who want to see government back in the hands of voters through voting in November for off-cycle elections, which increases turnout to over 50% and saves the Village over $150,000. The Village is one of the few towns in New Jersey that continues off-cycle elections. He encouraged all residents to vote to move elections to November on this year’s November ballot, as it will make the Village a better place to live.
Councilman Voigt wished the newly elected Councilmembers, Bernie Walsh and Pam Perron, much luck in their duties as he is highly confident that they have the best interest of our residents at heart and will serve them well. He thanked everyone for the opportunity to serve.
- REMARKS BY MAYOR RAMON M. HACHE, SR.
Mayor Hache stated that he couldn’t believe that four years went by so fast. He thanked his wife, Tina, for the support and helping him perform his responsibilities. He thanked everyone who contributed to his campaign in terms of their time and effort in getting him elected and all of the hard work that takes. He thanked the voters for placing their confidence in him and giving him a chance to serve his community. He also thanked the current Village Council for taking a rookie and helping to show him the ropes and giving him their support. He appreciated their collaboration and being respectful whenever they didn’t agree on things. Mayor Hache added that he was also very thankful to the staff for all of the work and support, including the Department Directors and Heather Mailander. He thanked Mr. Rogers for always being a sounding board and keeping them from doing crazy things sometimes, adding that he appreciated his professionalism. He thanked Donna Jackson for her work, as well as Bob Rooney.
Mayor Hache stated that all of the Department Directors are really incredible and he was appreciative of all the support that they have given. He has never felt that they weren’t willing to help at a moment’s notice to get things done, and he was very appreciative of their time and effort. He thanked the volunteers from the community, the Board and Committee members, as anyone who steps up to serve the community has his respect and he really appreciated the work they were able to accomplish. He particularly thanked the committees where he has served, the CBD Advisory Committee, the Chamber of Commerce, Parks and Recreation Fields Committee, which was able to accomplish a lot. He also thanked the Planning Board where he served for the last two years, as he appreciated their professionalism. He was able to collaborate a lot with Age Friendly. He also wanted to thank the Library Board for the tremendous amount of work they have done in the last three years and all the planning and work for the renovation project. He also thanked the Interfaith Community, as it is an amazing group and is one of the highlights of what we can do as a community in the Village.
Mayor Hache stated that outside of Ridgewood, meeting once a month with the Bergen County League of Municipalities, where they share a lot of best practices and what they can learn from each other. Also, the Northwest Bergen Mayor’s Association, which is an amazing peer group that he had.
Mayor Hache stated that four years ago, it wasn’t a very peaceful time in the Village as there were a lot of contentious issues on the docket. He appreciates Mr. Rogers’ guidance through that process, and stated that despite the issues that separated the community at one time, it was good to see the community coming together, showing that we can put behind us whatever is separating us today and move forward to the next phase. He is very proud of the work they have done these four years as it is moving a lot of work forward, including the parking garage which is a very tangible representation of all of the things they have accomplished. Mayor Hache added that this also includes Fair Share Housing, and all of the things that they did as a Village Council that pushed a lot of big projects forward.
Mayor Hache stated that he was amazed at all of the things that they, as a Village Council have done, and the fact that they were able to do them. He never imagined that the Village residents would face this pandemic in the last few months, and that it has been a very taxing time on everybody. He stated that it is an unprecedented time and in those moments when we face our toughest challenges, is when you see the heart of the community. When it really matters, the Village residents really come together as a community. It was a humbling experience to see the outpouring of support from the community for first responders, frontline workers, and for folks in need. It touched his heart in a special way, and he is so thankful for being part of this community.
Mayor Hache stated that thankfully, things are not as crazy as they were four years ago, and he knows they are in good hands with three seasoned veterans on the Village Council. He wished the best to the incoming members, Pamela Perron and Lorraine Reynolds, he thanked them for stepping up to serve, and he wished them all the best. He encouraged a lot of patience and stated that they should do what they believe is right even if not everyone agrees with them, at least they know they did the right thing. He thanked everyone and stated that he would miss them.
Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she, on behalf of the Village of Ridgewood Village Council, would like to thank Councilman Voigt for his service to our community. While they often disagree, she thinks they all appreciate that the differences actually make us stronger, so they are grateful for his service as a Village Councilmember and as a member of the Board of Adjustment.
Councilwoman Knudsen stated that Mayor Hache leaves some big shoes to fill, and she thinks that they would all agree that they will miss him terribly. He has been the epitome of graciousness, decency, honesty, and truthfulness and has been a true leader during a time of difficulty within our community, our State, and our Nation. For members of our community, his ever-present comments and reassuring nature on Facebook, social media, by way of email, and at meetings, has been a gift. A gift of calm, a gift of reassurance, which were much appreciated by the community and Village Council colleagues. They all look forward to referring to him as Freeholder in the future, so everyone is very excited about that.
- READING OF CERTIFICATE OF ELECTION OF PAMELA PERRON – HEATHER A. MAILANDER, VILLAGE MANAGER/VILLAGE CLERK
Ms. Mailander read the Certificate of Election for Pamela Perron, indicating that she was elected to serve a four-year term on the Village Council commencing July 1, 2020 and ending on July 1, 2024.
- OATH OF OFFICE ADMINISTERED TO PAMELA PERRON BY SUSAN CASSELL, ESQ.
Susan Cassell, Esq. administered the Oath of Office to Pamela Perron. Councilwoman Perron then signed the Oath of Office. There was a round of applause.
- READING OF CERTIFICATE OF ELECTION OF LORRAINE REYNOLDS – HEATHER A. MAILANDER, VILLAGE MANAGER/VILLAGE CLERK
Ms. Mailander read the Certificate of Election for Lorraine Reynolds, indicating that she was elected to serve a four-year term on the Village Council commencing July 1, 2020 and ending on July 1, 2024.
- OATH OF OFFICE ADMINISTERED TO LORRAINE REYNOLDS – HEATHER A. MAILANDER, VILLAGE MANAGER/VILLAGE CLERK
Village Manager/Village Clerk Heather A. Mailander administered the Oath of Office to Lorraine Reynolds. Councilwoman Reynolds then signed the Oath of Office. There was a round of applause.
- READING OF CERTIFICATE OF ELECTION OF BERNADETTE COGHLAN WALSH – HEATHER A. MAILANDER, VILLAGE MANAGER/VILLAGE CLERK
Ms. Mailander read the Certificate of Election for Bernadette Coghlan Walsh, indicating that she was elected to serve a four-year term on the Village Council commencing July 1, 2020 and ending on July 1, 2024.
- OATH OF OFFICE ADMINISTERED TO BERNADETTE COGHLAN WALSH – HEATHER A. MAILANDER, VILLAGE MANAGER/VILLAGE CLERK
Village Manager/Village Clerk Heather A. Mailander administered the Oath of Office to Bernadette Coghlan Walsh. Councilwoman Walsh then signed the Oath of Office. There was a round of applause.
- REMARKS BY COUNCILWOMAN PERRON
Councilwoman Perron stated that she is so excited to serve the people of Ridgewood, she has been coming to Council meetings regularly over the past 3½ years as an observer for the League of Women Voters. From what she sees, she has to thank Mayor Hache for modeling to her what good communication with the electorate is, especially during a crisis; how to compromise on difficult issues; and how to pitch Ridgewood’s needs to Trenton. She also wanted to express her appreciation for Councilman Voigt’s efforts, his willingness to meet with her and educate her on the issues, and his tenacity on key issues. She encouraged the new Village Council to act on a platform of collegiality and compassion. They have a lot of work ahead of them and won’t always agree, but they can be respectful of one another and value each other’s opinions. Councilwoman Perron stated that with the load of work they have ahead of them, especially with this pandemic, she asked they avoid negativity which can distract them from their goals.
Councilwoman Perron stated that she came up with five bullet points of what she would like to see them accomplish over the next term. First, and fastest, is to reinvent the downtown. COVID-19 has completely transformed how the Village businesses operate in public. The Village needs to support the business community, help them survive and thrive, because home values, property taxes, and the quality of the schools are tied to the success of the Central Business District. She also would like to see the Village Council communicate better with residents and businesses in a more modern way.
The next point is, the Village Council must ensure the Village’s financial stability, despite the pandemic. It is a huge job, because there will be increased costs and diminished revenues. Another initiative is that the Village must protect the environment. Councilwoman Perron stated that the Village must plant a lot more trees and reduce the carbon footprint, which is owed to the next generation. Finally, she was listening to Reverend Mack Brandon speak a few days ago and he mentioned that the African American community in the Village has diminished over the last few decades and she asked what are the systemic or institutional obstacles that keep the African American community from wanting to stay or move into Ridgewood. This must be investigated to make Ridgewood a more welcoming place to live.
Councilwoman Perron stated that she would like to finish with gratitude for her thoughtful, civic minded team, comprised of Jeanne Johnson, Siobhan Crann Winograd, Janice Willett, Linda McNamara, Susan Cassell, all of the generous contributors to her campaign, all of the voters who voted for her, and all the voters who didn’t vote for her. She asked all who are watching by Zoom, to continue to attend Village Council meetings, as government functions best when it is watched. She urged residents to get involved in civic matters, to find out what is going on with neighbors, spend hours and hours doing so and they will be proud of what they have accomplished. Councilwoman Perron encouraged residents to please call her with any questions they have, any observations, solutions, insight, and complaints (201) 444-4264.
- REMARKS BY COUNCILWOMAN REYNOLDS
Councilwoman Reynolds thanked her husband and three boys for their support not only during the campaign, but during the many years of Village Council meetings, Planning Board meetings, Board of Adjustment meetings, and other meetings that she has been attending. There were many missed dinners, late nights, collecting signatures, and they were always there to help. She thanked everyone who voted for her, as she was honored to receive their support. For everyone who did not vote for her, she will earn their support and respect. She added that she is sure no one will be happy with her all of the time, but hopefully they will know that she is doing her best in what she feels is right for Ridgewood.
Councilwoman Reynolds stated that she has great hopes that the five Village Councilmembers will work well together, and will have a great two years, and possibly even four years.
- REMARKS BY COUNCILWOMAN WALSH
Councilwoman Walsh welcomed guests, friends, and residents watching from home. She expressed her sincere thanks to all those who reached out to her to offer congratulations on her re-election, and she thanked all those who voted for and supported her during that time. She truly appreciated their kind words and continued support of her. This was an historic election in Ridgewood, as it was the first time three women have been elected in a single election and the first time a woman has been elected to a third term on the Village Council. She finds this fitting in the 100th anniversary of the ratification of the Amendment to the Constitution allowing women the right to vote.
Councilwoman Walsh stated that these last four years on the Village Council have been rewarding and energizing, as there were so many projects and initiatives that have been accomplished. She knows that four years seems like a long time, but truthfully it goes by in a flash. She wanted to acknowledge and thank all of those Committee members with whom she worked and shared ideas with, in her most recent term. The Village thrives when residents can share their ideas freely and collaborate to improve the Village. The long hours they all spend, show their dedication in helping the Village flourish in quality of life, education, and culture.
Councilwoman Walsh stated that she also wanted to thank Heather Mailander, Village Manager, and Donna Jackson, Deputy Clerk, Matt Rogers, Village Attorney, and the entire staff who keep the Village running like a well-oiled machine. Without their professionalism and expertise, the Village Council’s job would be much more difficult.
Councilwoman Walsh stated that she wanted to thank her husband and three children for all of their love and support and for sharing her these many years with the Village. She thanked Mayor Hache and Councilman Voigt for their service to the community, as they have dedicated the past four years to service and made significant contributions to the community. She wished them both well in their new endeavors and she hoped they will continue to serve the Village.
Councilwoman Walsh stated that her new assignments are Parks and Recreation, Field Committee, Board of Education, and Stigma Free Ridgewood. She is also continuing her newly formed Adopt a Senior Program. Board of Education and Stigma Free will be new Committees for her to work on. She looks forward to getting to know those members and doing good work for the Village. Her Adopt a Senior Program has grown because so many residents pitched into support it, and she is looking to support the program with student and resident liaisons to manage the growing need. As she has said before, when Ridgewood pulls together it really pulls together.
Councilwoman Walsh stated that she would be remiss if she didn’t say that this reorganization wasn’t bittersweet. Three weeks ago, her Council colleagues asked if she would accept the nomination of Deputy Mayor, to which she joyfully said yes. A week after that meeting, Susan Knudsen called to inform her that she had called a new meeting to change that nomination. Needless to say, it is a great disappointment to her. She stated that she is proud of her service to this Village, both in her role as Councilwoman, and in the many hats she has worn these past 22 years as a resident. Councilwoman Walsh stated that she is proud that residents call her the independent voice on the Council, as she truly believes that Councilmembers owe it to the community to speak for themselves, and not as a block.
Councilwoman Walsh stated that in recent years, the term Village Council majority has been deemed derogatory. She is proud that she won this election with the largest margin in Ridgewood history to the next closest competitor. It proves that the electorate has spoken and they support her role on this Village Council. She is proud that she is described as a trusted, respected leader and she pledges to continue to serve in Ridgewood’s best interests and looks forward to a bright future in the community, and on-going collaboration with the residents, as well as her new and current Village Council colleagues, as they hope to make Ridgewood even better.
Councilwoman Walsh closed with a quote from then resident, and new Councilwoman Lorraine Reynolds, from the 2014 Reorganization Meeting minutes, “a show of good faith today would go a long way to a good working environment over the next two years, following Ridgewood’s tradition would be a giant step in that direction. It has been an unwritten rule that the Councilmember with the most votes is offered the position of Deputy Mayor. Ms. Reynolds believes the Village Council will have shown respect to the individual who received more votes than any other candidate in Ridgewood history. People sought change in Village leadership, and their voices were heard loud and clear. Ms. Reynold’s urged the Councilmembers to cast their vote for the people’s choice.”
- ROLL CALL OF NEW VILLAGE COUNCIL – HEATHER A. MAILANDER, VILLAGE MANAGER/VILLAGE CLERK
Ms. Mailander called the roll of the new Village Council: Councilmembers Knudsen, Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, and Walsh.
- CALL FOR NOMINATION FOR OFFICE OF MAYOR BY HEATHER A. MAILANDER, VILLAGE MANAGER/VILLAGE CLERK
Ms. Mailander called for the nominations for the office of Mayor of the Village of Ridgewood. Councilman Sedon made a motion for the nomination of Councilwoman Knudsen as Mayor of the Village of Ridgewood for a two-year term commencing July 1, 2020. Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Knudsen, Reynolds, and Sedon
NAYS: Councilwoman Perron
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: Councilwoman Walsh
Councilman Sedon moved that the nominations for Mayor be closed, seconded by Councilwoman Reynolds.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Knudsen, Perron, Reynolds, and Sedon
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: Councilwoman Walsh
Ms. Mailander stated that there would be a roll call vote on the nomination of Susan Knudsen as Mayor of the Village of Ridgewood for a two-year term commencing July 1, 2020.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Knudsen, Perron, Reynolds, and Sedon
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: Councilwoman Walsh
- ADMINISTERING OATH OF OFFICE TO MAYOR – MATTHEW S. ROGERS, VILLAGE ATTORNEY
Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney, stated that once again he is honored to be able to swear Susan Knudsen in as a Mayor, as he did it once before, four years ago. He is always impressed by her efforts on behalf of the Village and the time that she spends always trying to do her best.
Susan Knudsen stated that she was honored to have Matt Rogers swear her in as Mayor for the second time, as they work closely together, she considers him a friend, and he serves the Village well, as Village Attorney.
Mr. Rogers administered the Oath of Office to Mayor Susan Knudsen. There was a round of applause for Mayor Knudsen.
- CALL FOR NOMINATION FOR OFFICE OF DEPUTY MAYOR BY MAYOR
Mayor Knudsen called for the nominations for the office of Deputy Mayor of the Village of Ridgewood. Councilwoman Reynolds made a motion to nominate Councilman Michael Sedon as Deputy Mayor of the Village of Ridgewood for a two-year term commencing July 1, 2020. Mayor Knudsen seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Reynolds, Sedon, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: Councilwoman Perron
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: Councilwoman Walsh
Mayor Knudsen moved that the nominations for Deputy Mayor be closed. Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: Councilwoman Walsh
Ms. Mailander stated that there would be a roll call vote on the nomination of Michael Sedon as Deputy Mayor of the Village of Ridgewood for a two-year term commencing July 1, 2020.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Reynolds, Sedon and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: Councilwoman Perron
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: Councilwoman Walsh
- ADMINISTERING OATH OF OFFICE TO DEPUTY MAYOR – MAYOR SUSAN KNUDSEN
Mayor Susan Knudsen administered the Oath of Office to Deputy Mayor Sedon. There was a round of applause for Deputy Mayor Sedon.
- CALL FOR NOMINATION FOR OFFICE OF PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL
Mayor Knudsen called for the nominations for the office of President Pro Tempore of the Village Council. Councilwoman Perron moved the nomination of Councilwoman Bernadette Coghlan Walsh as President Pro Tempore of the Village Council for a two-year term commencing July 1, 2020. Deputy Mayor Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Mayor Knudsen moved that the nominations for the office of President Pro Tempore of the Village Council be closed. Deputy Mayor Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Ms. Mailander stated that there would be a roll call vote on the nomination of Bernadette Coghlan Walsh as President Pro Tempore of the Village Council for a two-year term commencing July 1, 2020.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- ADMINISTERING OATH OF OFFICE OF PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL – HEATHER A. MAILANDER, VILLAGE MANAGER/VILLAGE CLERK
Ms. Mailander administered the Oath of Office to Bernadette Coghlan Walsh. There was a round of applause.
- REMARKS BY DEPUTY MAYOR SEDON
Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that it has certainly been an interesting six years serving on the dais and he wanted to thank his son Hunter, because he reminds him of exactly why he does this. He remembers six years ago on a Friday morning coming to Village Hall to pick up his nomination packet to make a run at a first term for Village Council and then going home and going to Valley Hospital where his son was born later on that day.
Deputy Mayor Sedon thanked Councilman Voigt for his service, and Mayor Hache for his service and friendship. He thanked Councilwoman Walsh for serving with distinction, dedication, and honor, and she has done a very good job as a Councilmember and he looked forward to serving with her for the next two years. He thanked Pam Perron who has proven that she has the strength and dedication to move the Village forward in a positive direction. He also thanked Lorraine Reynolds who has also been there from the beginning and been involved in different aspects of the community and different things going on, in the Village.
Deputy Mayor Sedon also thanked Mayor Knudsen and the entire Knudsen family. She has been there from the beginning and since that time, she has become an incredible friend to him. The work that Mayor Knudsen puts in on the Village Council is immense and he is proud to continue to serve with her. He thanked the Village Manager and Village staff for helping with the details and preparing the meeting packets, and help with their ideas. He thanked the Committees that he served on, and all of the Committee members who volunteered their time, as a lot of good work has been put in and a lot of good ideas come from Committees. Each initiative, big or small, helps add to the character and greatness of Ridgewood and the residents who live here. He is deeply honored to serve in this role, and it helps to hear different opinions. When people want to say what is on their mind, it makes decision making easier hearing more thoughts and ideas, so he is always grateful for that.
- REMARKS BY MAYOR KNUDSEN
Mayor Knudsen thanked her family for being there, her husband, three sons, daughter-in-law, and three little ones. She thanked them for their support. In 2010 she was first appointed to the Board of Adjustment, so this is a decade for her serving the Village of Ridgewood in a variety of roles, and it is really an honor to serve. She said that Ridgewood is a really special community, and while we don’t always agree on everything, the way we disagree has to be done in a more polite, kinder way. As a rule, the Village Council is collegial, but to be collegial doesn’t mean that you always agree, it really is the delivery in how you treat each other, not just as Council colleagues but as people. She hopes that going forward, they will be able to put that chapter behind them and move forward.
Mayor Knudsen stated that they appreciate everyone who voted, and the candidates who stepped up, to lean in with a willingness to put themselves out there, because it is not always pretty. We as a community benefit when there is a choice of candidates and when there is a dialogue where issues are brought to the forefront. She commended Councilwoman Walsh for her third term, Councilwoman Perron and Reynolds, as well as Sergio Alegre during that highly unusual election, which was completely by mail-in ballots and combined the Board of Education and Village Council elections. She also acknowledged those who ran for the Board of Education. This gave them an opportunity to understand the issues the community faces and how to move forward. She disagreed with something that Councilman Voigt pointed out earlier that the off-cycle elections don’t bring out the voters, as it looks like about 33% turnout was there for this election. One Village, One Vote only requires about 4,000 votes for their petition so we are far past that, because there is a robust conversation going on in the Village and residents are interested in the issues and topics, and making sure that this Village is run properly.
Mayor Knudsen stated 730 ballots were rejected which is about 13% and is a significant number of people who went to the post office and mailed a ballot. Regardless of the outcome, if her ballot wasn’t counted she would be devastated. The Village filed a lawsuit and prevailed and the County has canvassed those ballots. These are all important issues and she looks forward to her continued service here as Mayor, and a lot has gone on in the past four years and they are blessed to have had a Village Council that could process the incredibly difficult issues that they faced. All of these issues have been addressed, so the current Village Council has an opportunity to focus on more quality of life issues that are important. She agreed with the former Mayor that the Planning Board has been quiet.
Mayor Knudsen thanked everyone for the vote of confidence and she looked forward to serving once again in this capacity. She extended a special thanks to all Village staff who work incredibly hard to keep this Village going.
Mr. Rogers stated that he wanted to wish Jeff Voigt success in the next endeavors he chooses. Also in a professional capacity as Village Attorney, but also personally, he wanted to say that the time he spent with Ramon Hache as a Councilmember and Mayor was something that he will remember, as he found him to be a man with integrity and compassion for the needs of others. He takes pride in what he does, and how well he does it. He thanked the Village Council members, and Lorraine Reynolds and Pam Perron for stepping up.
Councilwoman Perron stated that she forgot to thank her family, and added that her husband was an incredible help during the campaign and her three children were cheerleaders as well.
- RESOLUTIONS
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 20-185 THROUGH 20-200, WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:
- COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Laurie Webber, 235 South Irving Street, stated that she wanted to offer her congratulations to the new and continuing Village Councilmembers. She said that the Village is certainly very lucky to have them all and she feels particularly fortunate to have Susan Knudsen’s leadership once again. She had hoped that this day could have remained the upbeat occasion it should have been, but unfortunately she must take great exception to the lengthy and bitter rebuke emanating from one outgoing Councilmember, disrespecting fellow Councilmembers and an incoming Councilmember and thousands of constituents, many of whom, like herself, voted for him and displayed his campaign signs on their lawns. All of this came from a person who has perpetrated a variety of racist harassments and called a member of the public a douchebag from the dais at a public meeting. It’s a fitting end for Mr. Voigt given his tumultuous four years.
Jean Theisen, 354 Fairfield Avenue, stated that she wanted to take this time to say thank you very much to Councilman Voigt for his service, his high level of communication regarding the meeting minutes, and openness to discuss issues at any time was tremendously appreciated. His support of various members within the community was also tremendously appreciated. She also wanted to really make sure that Mayor Hache hears, and that everyone hears, that he has set the bar for quality of leadership, for openness to everybody in the Village being included, and the support of the students in our High School being felt. She was one of many who helped to organize the Pride celebration and it was sad to see that many of the School Board members were not able to make it, and the same with some Councilmembers. It was disturbing to the students and herself, and many residents came up to her after and said that the Ridgewood Pride celebration was spectacular in that it included the students from the high school. The representation and support that the high school students received was overwhelming to both residents and non-residents.
Ms. Theisen stated that the Attorney General of our State said that they look forward to the Pride celebration in Ridgewood again next year. She thanked Mayor Hache for being so inclusive and standing up for a large community, and also for attending the Black Lives Matter rally. His partnership and inclusion of the Village Community and Village business owners has been really appreciated.
Rurik Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, stated that he wanted to thank Councilman Voigt for his service and he had backbone and gumption and stood up to those who did not like him. He stated that he has great faith in Mayor Hache and he has the talent to be the best former Mayor that the Village has every had.
Matthew Lindenberg, 155 Claremont Road, stated that he wanted to join the others who have thanked Councilman Voigt and Mayor Hache for their service, and he appreciates all of the work they have done in service to the community. He wanted to correct a point that Mayor Knudsen shared about the issues around the local election and One Village, One Vote. She commented on the strength of the turnout during this local election, and he wanted to make sure that everyone is working on the same page in terms of actual data and facts. They went back to the data provided from the Village and County Clerk, which does not include this current election, and in 2010 people voting in local elections in off cycle versus November, the number has been 49% higher in November, than an election in April or May. At the same time, by consolidating the elections in November, there would be a cost savings, and the argument that moving elections to November would be confusing, they provide other communities that have moved to November as examples, because local elections can be done in a separate part of the ballot. They have also heard that they are taking away people’s right to vote. Although the voters would not be able to vote on the Board of Education budget, they would be able to vote on like-minded individuals to serve on the School Board and then be able to vote them out of office. Mr. Lindenberg stated that they are open to a data-driven and fact-based cordial conversation about this, and they expect there to be disagreements.
Siobhan Crann Winograd, 274 Ivy Place, stated that she wanted to congratulate the pink wave of Ridgewood. She wanted to thank Jeff and Ramon, and commented on how Councilman Voigt has listened to her perspective as the daughter of a handicapped man with respect to housing, and she also wanted to thank him for being so kind to her parents during that year. She thanked him for asking questions about excessive spending and always responding back to her emails, improving his communications, and showing up with his camera. She thanked Mayor Hache for doing such a great job, in restoring common decency to the dais, and he has truly been lovely to work with in the public setting. She appreciated his pro-business approach to the downtown and pro-wellness approach as well. She also appreciated his support of aging in place. Ms. Winograd stated that she wanted to commend him for how he handled the COVID-19 pandemic with transparency, grace, and kindness. She thanked him for being a friend and for serving the community. She is proud of all he has done and he will be missed.
Laura Christenson, 421 Ponfield Place, stated that she has been a resident of Ridgewood 24 years, and she is a little disturbed about what she heard in the elections of the Deputy Mayor and the Mayor. She does executive leadership development and executive team development, and there are a couple of things that are raising the hair on her neck. Her question is if it was a backdoor decision to take away the Deputy Mayor position that was offered to Councilwoman Walsh. She was concerned because she didn’t want to head down that same path. She hopes that the Village Council really takes to heart the decisions that are made and tries their best to not fall down the path of less integrity. Ms. Christenson thanked Mayor Hache, as she values the contributions he has made to the community.
Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that regarding the One Village, One Vote, one fact that was presented was that the voters’ ability and right to vote on the proposed school board budget would be taken away if there is only one vote in November. She thanked him for pointing out that very important fact, as she does not want her right to vote on anything taken away.
There were no additional comments from the public.
- ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilwoman Walsh, seconded by Councilman Sedon, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Reorganization Meeting was adjourned at 1:50 P.M.
______________________________
Susan Knudsen
Mayor
______________________________
Heather A. Mailander
Village Manager/Village Clerk
- Hits: 1653