20210908 - Village Council Special Public Work Session Minutes

A SPECIAL PUBLIC 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 SEPTEMBER 8, 2021, AT 5:30 P.M.

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

Mayor Knudsen called the meeting to order at 5:30 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act.  At roll call, the following were present:  Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, and Mayor Knudsen.  Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; Eileen Young, Deputy Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney. 

Mayor Knudsen led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag and asked for a moment of silence in honor of the American men and women serving in our Armed Forces, as well as those serving as first responders.

2. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

Mayor Knudsen asked if there were any comments or questions from the public.  

Rurik Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, referred to the Town Garage, and suggested that a developer be brought in rather than making the site into a park.  He said that what is happening at the Schedler Park property is a shame, and he pointed out that the Wilsey Square Park pocket park has been vandalized. 

Mr. Halaby questioned why it was taking so long to negotiate a lease with Health Barn at Habernickel Park.  He said that Stacy Antine has done a lot of good for the Village, but the powers that be in the Village have tried to destroy one of the finest institutions in Ridgewood. 

Mr. Halaby spoke about the Village Council meeting of July 14, 2021, and characterized it as misanthropic.

Russell Forenza, 228 Emmett Place, referred to the proposed park at the Town Garage, and said he agreed with Mr. Halaby.  He asked if the parking spaces to the left would be eliminated.  He said that the Village doesn’t need another park, and no one has any idea if the site is polluted.  There will be no tax revenues coming from a park just as there are no tax revenues from Habernickel Park, or the proposed Schedler park. 

Mr. Forenza said it is not prudent for any public official or Ridgewood employee including the police to take a knee for the Black Lives Matter movement.  In the case of a police officer, someone could take their service revolver or cause personal harm.  Mr. Forenza said that this type of a statement should be made on the individual’s personal time, or vacation time, but not while in uniform.  He has spoken with the Police Chief who says she disagrees with him.  Mr. Forenza said that this is disrespectful for the safety of those in attendance, but while police officers are in uniform their primary concern is to maintain public safety. 

Mr. Forenza suggested purchasing a shredder for the Recycling Center.  This would be more convenient for residents instead of having them stand in line several times a year at Graydon Pool to have documents shredded. 

Siobhan Cran Winograd, 274 Ivy Place, said that she contacted the Village Council several times, but has been ignored.  Her father who was a polio survivor and former marine, as well as her mother are not able to access this meeting without remote access.  Ridgewood should be embracing modern technology to ensure that disabled and senior residents have access to Village Council meetings.  When the remote system of broadcasting meetings was installed, everyone had a chance to participate in democracy, and this is what government should strive to provide.  Ms. Winograd noted that this Village Council has more knowledge than previous Village Councils thanks to the census, and the Master Plan, and they are fully aware that Ridgewood’s population is aging, and potentially disabled.  The remote access should be restored due to the fact that the Village values the elderly and disabled population.  Ms. Winograd stated that so many residents have not been engaged with Village Council meetings since access was stopped, and she asked that this access be restored.

Robert Upton, 172 West Glen Avenue, addressed the West Glen Avenue sidewalks project.  He thanked Councilwoman Reynolds, the Village Manager, and the Village Engineer for meeting with him to discuss the timing, and process of the conceptual project.  The Village was waiting for comments from Bergen County, and Mr. Upton commented that it seems as if the current plan is the same as the original plan that had been presented.  He indicated that he is not opposed to the plan in principle; however, there are items that need to be addressed.  These items include the speeding issue on West Glen Avenue; the location of trees along the side of the road relative to visibility and safety; and the parking of delivery and contractor vehicles.  Mr. Upton recalled that initially it was noted that there was only $50,000 available to begin the project, which would extend over many years.  He feels it is imprudent to embark on such a lengthy project without assessing the overall cost.  There is no plan to publically discuss the project, but only to meet with individual property owners.

Mr. Upton stated that costs and aesthetics; the need for sidewalks on both sides of the street; and the widths of the sidewalks for the entire project should be addressed.  The need and cost of the grass strip, and the cost of the removal and replacement of existing walls should be discussed.  Mr. Upton stated that the aesthetics of building a wall of the same material in front of fifteen (15) adjacent properties from number 162 to 228 must also be considered.  These items and the overall plan should be reviewed before embarking on individual parts of the plan. 

No one else came forward and the Public Comments portion for the meeting was closed by Mayor Knudsen.

3. PRESENTATION – AMERICAN LEGION GOLD STAR MOTHER COMMITTEE

Christopher Stout, 251 Burnside Place, introduced himself as part of a Goldstar Family Monument Committee.  This committee consists of members and friends of American Legion Post 53, including William Carbone, Ramone Hache, Bob Paoli, and Arthur Rubel among others.  The mission is to offer a monument in Ridgewood to the Gold Star Families.  The title of “Gold Star Family” identifies families of military members who have died in the line of duty, and it is meant to honor the ultimate sacrifice and to acknowledge the loss, grief and healing of the family.  Mr. Stout stated that Post 53 hosts a Gold Star Families Luminaries evening every year on the last Sunday in September, which is Gold Star Families Day.  Mr. Stout said that The Legion Post is proposing to install a permanent tribute to Gold Star Families in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square.  There is an award winning permanent tribute to the 114 names of military service causalities in the park and they propose adding a tribute to those families.  Mr. Stout said there are similar monuments throughout the United States, but only one Gold Star tribute in New Jersey located in Holmdel.

Mr. Stout stated that American Legion Post 53 would like to place a permanent monument to Gold Star Families in northern New Jersey.  The monument would be in an abstract or realistic sculpture with graphics based on a reply to Requests for Proposals to be sent out to local sculptors.  The sculpture will be an expression of loss and grief, and will portray the emotions and strengths of Gold Star Family Members.  The sculpture will be the centerpiece of the annual Gold Star Families Commemoration.  Visitors to the site will leave with an understanding of the anguish of loss experienced by military families.  Mr. Stout said that the proposals will be presented to the Village Council for approval, and the request is for Village Council approval to place, and maintain a permanent monument on Village grounds. 

Councilwoman Perron questioned whether the proposed monument would be bronze, marble or another material.  Mr. Stout said that the material for the permanent monument would be the artist’s choice.  The Legion will have to consider a material that is vandal free, and one of the things to consider is the longevity of the material.  Councilwoman Perron asked about drawings.  Mr. Stout said he is hoping for approval of the concept tonight by the Village Council.  After that, Requests for Proposals (RFP) will be sent to local artists.  Upon questioning by Councilman Sedon, Mr. Stout said he hopes the authority for the final choice can be made by Legion Post 53.  Once the selection has been made, he will bring the selection to the Village Council for final approval. 

Mayor Knudsen said this is a wonderful way to acknowledge service and sacrifice.  She questioned fund raising, and Mr. Stout said that a program had recently commenced.  He said that the concept includes a brick walkway to the middle of the grass where the monument will be located.  Major donors to the monument will be noted with a brick.  Mr. Stout added that they have not yet opened a bank account for donations specific to this project.

Mayor Knudsen said that the Village Council fully supports the monument, and they are very pleased to have the Gold Star Monument in Ridgewood.  She said that a resolution could be prepared for the October meeting if Mr. Stout feels that is necessary.  Ms. Mailander said that there is a consensus by the Village Council that this is a wonderful project, and Legion Post 53 can move forward; however, she will have a resolution prepared for the October 13^th meeting.  Mr. Stout stated that Legion Post 53 is now eligible for a national grant given by the National Gold Star Families Organization.

 

4.           DISCUSSION

             a.           Ridgewood Water

             Award State Contract Purchase – Emergency Generator Amendment

Ms. Mailander recalled that the Village Council awarded Resolution 21-209 for the purchase of an Emergency Generator for the Water Department in the amount of $116,795.00, which was incorrect.  She is requesting that this resolution be rescinded, and that a new resolution be adopted to reflect the correct purchase price of $135,093.00.  The Emergency Generator is for the new Water Office project to be shared by the Library.

             b.           Parking

There are no items under parking this evening.

              c.           Budget

1.)          Preparation of Village Council Meeting Minutes through December 31, 2021

Ms. Mailander stated that the contracted individual who prepared meeting minutes has resigned for personal reasons.  One of the original contractors who prepared minutes in the past will take over preparation of Village Council Minutes from July 1, 2021 to December 31, 2021.  Ms. Mailander confirmed that there is funding to cover the increased cost.

2.)          Award State Contract Purchase – Vehicle Tracking System

Ms. Mailander stated that on July 14, 2021, the Village Council awarded Resolution 21-223, for the installation of vehicle tracking systems and software for Village vehicles under State Contract 89851.  Subsequent to the adoption of the Resolution, the Village was notified that the vendor had changed to a new State Contract.  This change at the beginning of 2021, affects both the 2020/2021, and the 2021/2022 contract years.  Ms. Mailander is requesting that the Resolution adopted in July be rescinded, and that two resolutions be adopted to reflect the corrected State Contract number as well as one to cover January 2021 to June 2021, and from July 2021 to June 2022. 

3.)          Award Third Year of Three Year Contract – Disposal of Recyclable Material

Ms. Mailander stated that this is the award of the third year of a three year contract for the Disposal of Recyclable materials to Atlantic Coast Fibers of Passaic, N.J.  This is a revenue share model with payment to the Village.

4.)          Award State Contract – Interceptor - Police

Ms. Mailander stated that the Police Department asked for quotes for a 2022 Ford Police Interceptor.  The most responsible quote came from Route 23 Auto Mall, Butler, New Jersey, at a cost of $37,130.00.  The funds are available in the Police Department Capital budget.  The vehicle will replace Patrol Car #9, a 2016 Ford PPV with high mileage at 72,524, and 16,696 engine hours.  Ms. Mailander advised that this car can no longer be used in an emergency capacity, and it is recommended that the vehicle be used in another Village department.  

5.)          Award State Cooperative Purchase – Portable Radios – Emergency Services

Ms. Mailander stated that this State contract is for six (6) new portable Motorola radios.  The equipment is being purchased from Motorola Solutions of Woodcliff Lake, N.J., with the amount not to exceed $34,998.09.  Ms. Mailander mentioned that existing radios in vehicles are being replaced, which will allow for colleagues to communicate on multiple/additional bands from a single radio.  This will enhance safety, efficiency, and improve interagency operations.  This will complete a change in portable radios because radios in ambulances and first responder vehicles have previously been updated. 

6.)          Award Contract – 2022 Village Calendar

Ms. Mailander removed this item from tonight’s agenda due to some discrepancies; however, she said she will recommend the proposal submitted by Ridgewood Press.  Mayor Knudsen asked that the dates of the Jewish holidays be confirmed with Rabbi Fine. 

7.)          Additional Award – 2021 Road Resurfacing and Repairs

Ms. Mailander said that this is an additional award for road resurfacing and repairs, which had been awarded in March to American Asphalt and Milling Services of Kearny, N.J.  The bid included the curb and sidewalk replacement, and Mr. Rutishauser is recommending that the same company be awarded additional funds in the amount of $160,000.00 for sidewalk work primarily on West Glen Avenue and several other possible locations.  Ms. Mailander indicated that the funding is available in the capital budget.

8.)          Authorize Electronic Tax Sales

Ms. Mailander explained that this resolution will allow the Village to continue to participate in online tax sales.  This is for New Jersey Tax Lien Investors/Real Auction.com, and it has been approved by the Director of the Division of Local Government Services of the State of New Jersey.  Ms. Mailander added that there is also the required annual Resolution authorizing the Tax Collector to charge $25 per mailing of the Tax Sale Notice to be added to the cost of sale in lieu of any two publications of the tax sale notice.

9.)          Authorize Sale of Compost – Lakeview Compost Facility

Ms. Mailander explained that the Village solicited Request for Proposals from vendors in the yard waste/mulch industry for the sale of finished compost from the Lakeview Compost Facility.  The leaves collected in the Fall have composted by this time, and the Village has received two responses for the finished compost.  The highest quote was received from DTS Trucking of Hawthorne, N.J., in the amount of $3.00 per cubic yard or approximately $27,000.  The amount is 50 cents per cubic yard more than last year. 

Ms. Mailander said that DTS has been purchasing the finished compost for the past few years and the finished product will be hauled away to provide space for the leaves coming into the facility in the next several months.

d.           Policy

1.)          Approve AM Rotary Park Area Cleanup Program – Twinney Pond Area

Ms. Mailander stated that the Ridgewood Rotary Club has volunteered to perform trail maintenance and removal of invasive tree species at the Twinney Pond area.  The tree species will be identified by the Village Arborist.  The proposed date for the work is Saturday, October 2^nd at 9:00 A.M. with a rain date of October 9^th and maintenance will include placing wood chips on the walking paths.  The Village will provide wheel barrows to move the wood chips; provide some rakes and hand tools to assist with the work; and remove and dispose of the invasive trees that are cut down.  Ms. Mailander said that the Village has requested a Certificate of Insurance from the Rotary Club. 

Councilwoman Perron who is a member of the Rotary Club said that they would like to begin work at 8:00 A.M. rather than 9:00 A.M. in order to complete the work in one day.  The Director of Parks and Recreation will have the Village Arborist mark the invasive trees.

2.)          Vacating Barrington Road/Upper Boulevard Parcel

Ms. Mailander explained that there is a paper street located at the westerly intersection of Barrington Road and Upper Boulevard.  The adjoining neighbors are interested in receiving portions of that property.  She explained that a 15 ft. wide water main easement will be located in the median of the proposed vacated parcel so that there will be equal property on each side.  All rights and title to the vacated parcel other than the 15 ft. wide water main shall be conveyed to, and consolidated with the abutting properties.  The owners of the properties will be responsible for reimbursement to the Village of any costs related to the vacating of the unimproved paper street.  The consolidation of the lots and the revisions to the maps of the Village will reflect the consolidation of the vacated parcel to the respective properties. 

Councilwoman Perron pointed out that the survey was not attached.  Mr. Rogers explained that he hopes to have the survey along with the meets and bounds description of the entire vacated area from the property owner’s surveyor in the near future. 

3.)          Abandoned Home & Severe Property Maintenance – 164 N. Murray

Ms. Mailander stated that there is a request for the Village to hire a landscaper to abate the property maintenance violations found at 164 North Murray Avenue.  The cost of this service will be the added to the tax burden of the property owner.  Ms. Mailander explained that the Village has been unable to contact the property owner, and she added that the property is not in foreclosure because the taxes are being paid.  The attorney for the owner has been advised that a landscaper is being hired.  The property is in a severe condition, and the cost of cutting grass, removing weeds, and plants from the gutters, along with the removal of water from the pool cover is estimated to be between $1,800 and $2,000. 

Ms. Mailander asked for authorization to move forward with the work, and Mayor Knudsen indicated that this is a reasonable plan. 

4.)          Central Business District Dining corral Extension

Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that the expansion of eateries into parking spaces expires on October 31, 2021.  Robert Rooney is reviewing a different pricing structure for permanent structures pursuant to the approval of the Village Council.  More information will be provided in order to further discuss the possibility of extending dining corrals.    

5.)          Extend the Time of Variance Approval due to Pandemic

Ms. Mailander stated that according to the Code of the Village of Ridgewood any applicant who receives variance approval not subject to site plan, subdivision or conditional use approval must obtain the required building permits within one year of the date of adoption of the resolution of approval.  Presently, building materials are difficult to obtain, and the Village Council has suggested temporarily extending the period for approved applicants to two years from the date of the adopted resolution of approval to satisfy the requirements.  This extension will remain in effect until there is a further resolution of the Village Council to rescind this extension. 

Mayor Knudsen explained that this is an important step to grant some relief to those caught in an impossible situation.  She has worked with Matt Rogers, Village Attorney, and Bruce Whitaker, Planning Board Attorney, to ensure this has been done properly.  This will be welcome news to residents who want to complete their projects without going through variance approval again.

              e.           Operations

1.)          Declare Property Surplus – IT Department

Ms. Mailander stated that this refers to surplus nonfunctional IT equipment that is damaged and not suitable for repair or no longer needed for public use.  These items will be declared as surplus property and authorizes the Village Manager to dispose of the property. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8.           ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Sedon, seconded by Councilwoman Perron, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 5:38 P.M.

 

 

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  _________________________________                                                                                                                                       Susan Knudsen                                                                                                                                                                          Mayor

 

 

_________________________________                                                                                                                                 Eileen Young                                                                                                                                                     Deputy Village Clerk