20161109 - Village Council Regular Public Meeting Minutes
A REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY ON WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2016, AT 8:00 P.M.
- CALL TO ORDER – OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS ACT – ROLL CALL – FLAG SALUTE – MOMENT OF SILENCE
Mayor Knudsen called the meeting to order at 8:01 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. At roll call, the following were present: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen. Also present were Heather Mailander, Acting Village Manager/Village Clerk, and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney.
Mayor Knudsen led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.
2. ACCEPTANCE OF FINANCIAL REPORTS
Mayor Knudsen moved that the Bills, Claims, and Vouchers, and Statement of Funds on hand as of October 31, 2016, be accepted as submitted. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Council minutes of September 7, September 14, September 28, and October 5, 2016, having been reviewed by the Village Council and now available in the Village Clerk’s Office be approved as submitted. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
4. PROCLAMATIONS
A. RECOGNIZE EMMANUEL ON THEIR 125TH ANNIVERSARY
Councilman Hache read the following proclamation:
5. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Mayor Knudsen announced that the Village Council would now hear comments from the public not to exceed three minutes per person or forty minutes in total.
Anne Powley, 86 West Crescent Avenue, Mahwah, said that she is a member of the League of Women Voters and has been working with the Coalition Against the Pilgrim Pipeline for the past two years. She thanked the Village Council for considering the resolution on tonight’s agenda, which she characterized as a regional water issue. Ms. Powley said she would be happy to address any questions about the opposition to the pipeline.
Peter Quinn, 66 Pomander Walk, asked if this was the appropriate time to speak regarding amendments to the ordinance on Pomander Walk. Mayor Knudsen said that anyone here for this ordinance should speak during the public hearing on this specific ordinance.
6. MANAGER’S REPORT
Ms. Mailander reported that election day ran smoothly although the polling places were quite busy. The turnout was 66%, which is typical for Ridgewood in a presidential election.
Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that leaf pick-up continues. She said that leaves are to be placed on the curb during the time period indicated in the flyer that was sent to all residences. This information is also available on the Village website. The actual pick-up date occurs after the dates noted in the flyer and on the website. Summonses will be issued if leaves are placed on the curb after those dates have passed.
In honor of Veterans Day, Ms. Mailander read a list of all Village employees, who are veterans and the position they hold now in the Village of Ridgewood. She thanked all of the Village employees who have served their country.
Community Events - Ms. Mailander announced that Veteran’s Day services will be held at Friday, November 11th at 11:00 A.M. at Memorial Park at Van Neste Square. Everyone is invited to attend to honor all those who have served our country.
Ms. Mailander stated that Sunday, November 13th is the Lutheran Elder Dinner. It will be held in the Old Paramus Reformed Church. She reported that Ridgewood Parks and Recreation is partnering with the Community Center Advisory Committee, the Civic Youth Corp and 7th grade volunteers who will be serving food that has been donated by Whole Foods. HealthBarn will be preparing the food for the eighty people who are expected. She added that the Village will provide transportation for senior residents.
Ms. Mailander announced that the Thanksgiving Service for the community will be held at by the Interfaith Community on November 22nd at 7:30 P.M. at the Old Paramus Reformed Church. All are welcome to attend.
Ms. Mailander noted that Village Hall would be closed on Friday in observance of Veteran’s Day. Village Hall and all Village offices will be closed on November 24th and 25th in observance of Thanksgiving Day.
Ms. Mailander stated that the Farmer’s Market has been extended through November 20th.
Ms. Mailander read an e-mail sent from a resident to the Mayor. The letter stated that the writer met Marion, at the Recycling Center, who was happy to assist her with the removal of cardboard from the back of her car to the appropriate receptacle. The resident asked the employee how he became such a bright young man and he answered that Mr. Spano was his boss and he is a wonderful person. The resident noted that the employee was responsive and supportive, but above all, he was kind. The letter went on to say that Marion and John Spano and the curbside recycling staff are wonderful representatives of the Village and the Mayor’s office and this team is the heartbeat of Ridgewood. Ms. Mailander thanked the employees for going the extra mile for the residents on a daily basis. Mayor Knudsen noted that the resident who wrote this e-mail is a long-time friend and she thanked her for taking the time to write such a positive letter.
7. VILLAGE COUNCIL REPORTS
Financial Advisory Committee (FAC) – Councilman Voigt reported on the Financial Advisory Committee meeting that took place on Monday. The FAC offered assistance in evaluating the assets of the water utility, relative to the court case involving the other municipalities. The FAC will also look into bonding for the library renovation and the assessment of the types of bonds available and best suited for that project. The parking utility was discussed and the FAC will be working on the pro forma financials for 2017, to include both revenues and expenses. The FAC will also study the various experiments being considered, such as ride sharing kiosks and van shuttle service for the Central Business District (CBD). They are evaluating employee parking in the high volume/high demand areas in the CBD, focusing on the businesses closest to the train station and will report their findings to the Village Council. Councilman Voigt explained that the intention is to find a number for available parking spaces for customers and patrons, due to the fact that many employees and commuters take many of the spaces in the high volume areas.
Councilman Voigt thanked Evan Weitz, Chairman of the FAC, who worked with Christopher Rutishauser, Village Engineer, on the TAP grant. Councilman Voigt said that the FAC has suggested that a brief, quarterly update presentation be made to the Village Council to keep them current on what is happening with the committee.
Ridgewood Environmental Advisory Committee (REAC) - Councilman Sedon reported that last night’s REAC meeting was rescheduled due to the election.
Shade Tree Committee – Councilman Sedon stated that the Shade Tree Commission held their meeting last night and discussed the capital budget, and the parks budget, along with the Tree Protection Ordinance, which should be forwarded to the Village Council shortly.
Councilman Sedon said that tonight, Dr. Jason Grabosky conducted a discussion at the Ridgewood Public Library relative to the effect of climate change on trees. The discussion was attended by approximately 60 people.
Councilman Sedon added that he attended the meeting of the Central Business District Advisory Committee (CBDAC) last Thursday. It was a lively meeting highlighted by a lengthy discussion on parking.
Councilwoman Walsh announced that on Friday, November 18th at Lester Stable, artist Ariel Adkins will be conducting a presentation called “Artfully Awear”. She encouraged everyone to attend.
Central Business District Advisory Committee (CBDAC) – Councilman Hache reported that this committee focuses on every aspect affecting the CBD such as traffic, pedestrian safety and infrastructure. There is interplay of many different factors, including the direction of foot traffic in the town, what is driving the decision of consumers and how to make the downtown more attractive. Councilman Hache stated that the CBDAC heard the details of the Tim Haahs parking garage design, which addresses many issues not addressed by the other proposals. There will be a discussion of the findings of the report at the December meeting, to include whether or not this plan presents a comprehensive solution to the parking problem. Councilman Hache noted that there should be a wide range of solutions, because the challenges are diverse. The Committee broke up into two separate subcommittees with one group focusing on the Central Business District website, noting the importance of focusing on the profile, visibility and positive stories about what is happening in the CBD. The other subcommittee will concentrate on the central valet solution, which will also be featured as part of the comprehensive solution. Councilman Hache anticipates a lot more information to be forthcoming at the December meeting.
Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) - Mayor Knudson stated that there is a meeting of the HPC on Thursday at 8:00 P.M. in the Garden Room.
Fourth Of July – Mayor Knudsen stated that the Fourth of July Committee will not meet in November and this Thursday evening is the Sponsor Recognition Meeting.
Mayor Knudsen stated that on Saturday evening, she and Councilman Hache had the privilege of attending the Ridgewood Indian Community Diwali Celebration at the Ridgewood High School Campus Center. This was an outstanding evening, a wonderful opportunity to participate in the celebration, and connect with many old friends.
Mayor Knudsen said that Ms. Mailander joined her for a Meals on Wheels committee luncheon on Monday at the Women’s Club. The luncheon recognized the efforts of the many volunteers who have served over 24,000 meals to those in need in the community. Mayor Knudsen thanked the volunteers and said it was an honor to attend this function.
Planning Board Meeting – Mayor Knudsen reminded everyone of the Planning Board Meeting on Tuesday night. She stated that there are a number of high density housing applications pending before the Planning Board. On Friday, a motion to stay was brought before the Judge; however, the motion could not be heard and was rescheduled for December 19th. The Judge did order a temporary stay, which will put a temporary hold on all of the applications before the Planning Board until the motion can be heard.
Mayor Knudsen stated that she will be in the fourth floor Conference Room, along with one of her Village Council colleagues this Saturday from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. Ms. Mailander suggested calling the Village Clerk’s office to make an appointment to avoid waiting. She noted that this will be done quarterly in order to give the public more face to face time.
8. ORDINANCES – RIDGEWOOD WATER
There were no ordinances this evening.
9. RESOLUTIONS – RIDGEWOOD WATER
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 16-330 THROUGH 16-334, WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA, WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:
10. ORDINANCES
a. Introduction - #3559 – Amendments to Various Salary Ordinances
Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of Ordinance 3559. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3559 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND SALARY ORDINANCE 3397 FIXING THE SALARIES, WAGES AND OTHER COMPENSATION FOR WHITE COLLAR EMPLOYEES; AND TO AMEND SALARY ORDINANCE 3398 FIXING THE SALARIES, WAGES AND OTHER COMPENSATION FOR BLUE COLLAR EMPLOYEES; AND TO AMEND SALARY ORDINANCE 3437 FIXING SALARIES, WAGES AND OTHER COMPENSATION OF AND FOR THE SUPERVISORY EMPLOYEES; AND TO AMEND SALARY ORDINANCE 3444, FIXING SALARIES, WAGES AND OTHER COMPENSATION AND TO ESTABLISH THE “EMPLOYEE AGREEMENT” OF CERTAIN NON-UNION EMPLOYEES OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, COUNTY OF BERGEN AND STATE OF NEW JERSEY; AND TO AMEND SALARY ORDINANCE 3445, FIXING SALARIES, WAGES AND OTHER COMPENSATION OF NON-UNION EMPLOYEES OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, COUNTY OF BERGEN AND STATE OF NEW JERSEY
Councilman Sedon moved that Ordinance 3559 be adopted on first reading and that December 14, 2016, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
b. Introduction - #3560 – Non-Union Salary Ordinance
Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of Ordinance 3560. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3560 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO FIX SALARIES, WAGES, AND OTHER COMPENSATION OF NON-UNION EMPLOYEES OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, COUNTY OF BERGEN AND STATE OF NEW JERSEY FOR THE YEAR 2016
Councilwoman Walsh moved that Ordinance 3560 be adopted on first reading and that December 14, 2016 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
c. Introduction - #3561 – Management Salary Ordinance
Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of Ordinance 3561. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3561 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO FIX SALARIES, WAGES AND OTHER COMPENSATION AND TO ESTABLISH THE “EMPLOYEE AGREEMENT” OF CERTAIN NON-UNION OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, COUNTY OF BERGEN AND STATE OF NEW JERSEY FOR THE YEAR 2016
Councilman Hache moved that Ordinance 3561 be adopted on first reading and that December 14, 2016, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
d. Introduction - #3562– Amend Chapter 190– Land Use and Development – Regulations for A-Frame Signs in Central Business District
Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of Ordinance 3562. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3562 by title:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD AMENDING THE PROVISIONS IN CHAPTER 190, LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT, CONCERNING PORTABLE ‘A-FRAME’ TYPE SIDEWALK SIGNS
Councilman Sedon moved that Ordinance 3562 be adopted on first reading and that December 14, 2016, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
e. Introduction - #3563 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – No Stopping or Standing – Bogert Avenue and Cambridge Road
Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of Ordinance 3563. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3563 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-66, “NO STOPPING OR STANDING” AND SECTION 265-68, “NO STOPPING OR STANDING CERTAIN HOURS”
Councilman Voigt moved that Ordinance 3563 be adopted on first reading and that December 14, 2016, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
f. Introduction - #3564 – Capital Fund Balance – Replacement of HVAC Unit – Ridgewood Library ($32,000)
Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of Ordinance 3564. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3564 by title:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY APPROPRIATING $32,000.00 FROM GENERAL CAPITAL FUND BALANCE FOR THE PURCHASE AND INSTALLATION OF ONE NEW HVAC ROOF TOP UNIT FOR THE RIDGEWOOD PUBLIC LIBRARY
Councilman Hache moved that Ordinance 3564 be adopted on first reading and that December 14, 2016, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
g. Introduction - #3565 – Authorize the Execution of Amended Lease for Social Services Association’s Use of 6 Station Plaza
Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of Ordinance 3565. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3565 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AUTHORIZE THE EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF AN AMENDED LEASE FROM THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD TO SOCIAL SERVICES ASSOCIATION OF RIDGEWOOD AND VICINITY, INC., FOR THE PREMISES LOCATED AT SIX STATION PLAZA AND KNOWN AS A PORTION OF THE FORMER BAGGAGE DEPOT FOR A TERM OF FIVE (5) YEARS
Councilwoman Walsh moved that Ordinance 3565 be adopted on first reading and that December 14, 2016, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
h. Introduction - #3566 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Establish No Repeat Parking in Zone Districts in Central Business District
Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of Ordinance 3566. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3566 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-34, “UNLAWFUL ACTS”
Councilman Voigt moved that Ordinance 3566 be adopted on first reading and that December 14, 2016, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
i. Introduction - #3567 – Fees – Fees for A-Frame Signs in Central Business District
Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of Ordinance 3567. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3567 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 145 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, AT SECTION 145 – 6, “ENUMERATION OF FEES RELATING TO CODE CHAPTERS”
Councilman Hache moved that Ordinance 3567 be adopted on first reading and that December 14, 2016, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
j. Public Hearing - #3555 – Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Section 156 – Food and Food Establishments – Retail License Fees
Mayor Knudsen moved the second reading of Ordinance 3555 by title on second reading and that the public hearing be opened. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3555 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 145 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, FEES, AT SECTION 156, “FOOD AND FOOD ESTABLISHMENTS”
Mayor Knudsen announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Voigt moved that Ordinance 3555 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
k. Public Hearing - #3556 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Parking Restrictions on Pomander Walk
Mayor Knudsen moved the second reading of Ordinance 3556 and that the Public Hearing be opened. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3556 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-67, SCHEDULE XVII “PARKING PROHIBITED CERTAIN HOURS” AND SECTION 265-69, SECHEDULE XIX “TIME LIMIT PARKING”
Mayor Knudsen announced that the Public Hearing was open. Andy Koontz, 20 Pomander Walk, said that he has lived on Pomander Walk since the early 1970s and six other households have been there since before 1982, when the strip mall was built. They are long term residents paying close to $200,000 in property taxes. They have been involved in the Village serving on school boards and involved in the Ridgewood Softball and Baseball Association, among many other activities. Mr. Koontz described Pomander Walk as a lovely residential street bordering the business district and many people purchased their homes here because of the convenience of walking to the train station, as well as easy access to other services in the Village. Mr. Koontz said that Pomander Walk cannot become an overflow parking lot for the local businesses or used as a staging area for delivery businesses.
Mr. Koontz said that they are ready to help evaluate problems experienced by streets bordering on the CBD and are willing to help with the overall parking situation in Ridgewood. It took residents four years to successfully achieve the goal of no parking on Pomander Walk. The Safety Committee recommended no parking on the street, which was approved by the last Village Council. The former Mayor and the Village Engineer saw for themselves exactly what residents on Pomander Walk were dealing with and made the right call. The parking ban restored peace and safety to the street and Mr. Koontz asked present members of the Village Council to continue the quality of life that took over four years to achieve, on this beautiful and peaceful street.
Tracy Koontz, 20 Pomander Walk, agreed with husband and added that she had discussed this matter with Village Councilmembers Hache and Voigt. She read from a statement stating that she opposes Ordinance #3556, because it will compromise safety on this dead end street, due to an increase of traffic from the CBD. The present ordinance has been in place for only three months, but it has made a significant difference in the amount of traffic on the street. The ordinance was drafted after much study by the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee, the Village Engineer and the residents, and passed by a 3 to 2 vote by the previous Village Council. Not long after the no parking signs were installed, she received a letter from the Village Clerk stating that there was a proposal being considered, which would amend the ordinance. Ms. Koontz said that part of the problem is a result of the traffic caused by employees and patrons of the strip mall, at the end of the street. Some employees continue to use the street for parking and loading of the pizza delivery vehicles, while others have made Sherman Place their new parking spot. She sympathizes with residents on Sherman Place and said that she understands that the CSAC is working on solutions for that area as well. Ms. Koontz stated that consideration should be given to implementing these safety measures on Sherman Place, before removing the no parking status on Pomander Walk.
Ms. Koontz noted that unsafe traffic conditions are not a burden to be shared by neighborhoods, but need to be eliminated completely. She reiterated that she opposes amending the ordinance, which would restore the hazardous conditions on Pomander Walk.
Mary Lou Fulford, 54 Pomander Walk, stated she moved to Pomander Walk in August, but is a long-time resident of Ridgewood and familiar with the parking problem. Pomander Walk needs to remain a no parking street as it is not safe to have cars speeding up and down, turning around in driveways and choking the area, making it impossible for residents and emergency vehicles to navigate the street. She has witnessed many hazardous driving maneuvers and fears for the safety of many children and elderly who live there. The residents do not want to move the problem to Sherman Place, but they do want the Village Council to maintain the no-parking restriction on Pomander Walk.
Kathryn Quinn, 52 Pomander Walk, said that over the past four years, residents of Pomander Walk have appeared before the Mayor, CSAC and the Village Council on multiple occasions to try to address the intrusion into the neighborhood by those who believe they have the right to park on the street, turn around in driveways and race down the cul de sac, endangering the lives of children and residents. Finally, the residents prevailed and the ordinance has been effective in keeping the street safe. Ms. Quinn said she realizes that the results of this ordinance have been borne by those on the other residential streets bordering the Central Business District. These neighbors are now seeking relief and CSAC is proposing modifications to fix their problems as well. Ms. Quinn said that they should listen to the CSAC, which is a strong and valuable voice. She encouraged the Village Council to put their recommendations into action, because they must realize that bringing back unsafe conditions to Pomander Walk cannot be part of the answer. The Village Council must get the message out that the safety of the citizens is imperative and they must continue to move forward with the ordinance that was adopted in July.
Peter Quinn, 66 Pomander Walk, said that his elderly neighbors could not be here tonight because they were recently injured in an accident, as a result of a driver who ran a red light on Glen Avenue. His neighbor’s rear yard backs up to a six foot wall on the border of the parking lot at Whole Foods, which is a very busy place. The parking lot at Whole Foods wraps around the side of the cul de sac on Pomander Walk, effectively surrounding the street on several sides, with an additional side being blocked if you add in the parking lot at the strip mall. Mr. Quinn pointed out that restoring parking to the north side of Pomander Walk will surround his neighbor with a commercial business district.
Mr. Quinn said that he has seen some great things happen over the last four years by working together. They were able to relieve the traffic burden imposed by the CBD and he thanked the Village on behalf of his neighbors. He was surprised and confused to find out that this issue was back for another vote and at the last meeting, he asked for the reasons that would prompt this action. Mr. Quinn then recognized the burden that now falls on the residents of Sherman Place, but this is a burden that they all hope will be lifted. He does not want to see street versus street or neighbor versus neighbor.
Mr. Quinn said that this situation can be improved and rectified on Sherman Place, Washington Place and any other street where traffic is a problem and safety is compromised. He doesn’t want a situation that is worsened and he recalled in June there was talk of a study of the residential streets near the CBD to focus on safety and offer recommendations. There have been no traffic calming measures to combat excessive speed on these residential streets or improvements made to signage or lighting. He questioned whether EMS has been asked if they can maneuver on the narrow streets when leaves or snow is piled up on the curbs and a car is parked on the other side.
Mr. Quinn asked members of the Village Council not to vote to approve the amendment that would restore parking on Pomander Walk. If parking is restored, the residents must be given some reassurance that the traffic conditions have been studied and conclusions made, which would lead Village officials to feel confident enough to bring parking back to Pomander Walk.
Karen Bagdon, 23 Pomander Walk, said that residents were grateful to have their safety issues addressed and acted upon, four months ago. They are very concerned with the notion that parking will go back to the way it was, along with all of the negative conditions. She would appreciate the Village Council granting the “non-approval” of this ordinance.
Alice Fleckenstein, 44 Pomander Walk, reiterated the feelings of her neighbors and said that there has been a huge improvement since the ordinance was adopted. She said that she is very sensitive to traffic on residential streets, due to the fact that her six-year-old granddaughter was killed on Overbrook Road because a driver was not following the rules. She would like to see the ordinance upheld so she can allow her grandsons to play in the front of the house from time to time.
Serge Ilin-Schneider, 22 Pomander Walk, said that he wanted to find out the reason why this ordinance was being amended. He learned that residents on Sherman Place have emailed Village officials concerning the parking problems they are experiencing, which they attribute to the situation on Pomander Walk. He pointed out that this conclusion cannot be based on anecdotal evidence and that safety studies need to be done to prove a correlation. Reversing this ordinance that has worked so well is premature, and goes against the desires of so many residents on Pomander Walk. Mr. Ilin-Schneider asked the Village Council to reconsider and listen to the residents.
Bob Lasky, 47 Pomander Walk, said that he has been a volunteer EMT, safety director for Ridgewood Football and has served on the Fourth of July Committee with Mayor Knudsen. Mr. Lasky worked on this parking problem and served on the CSAC with Councilwoman Walsh and Councilman Sedon. He knows of incidents when ambulances have been delayed reaching residents on Pomander Walk. If a fire should occur at the end of the street, especially if there is a car parked around the curb, the aerial ladder truck will not be able to fit through. The CSAC has seen the calculations done by the Engineering Office and committee members feel this ordinance should be delayed or not even put to a vote. Mr. Lasky concluded by stating that the ordinance should be left as is.
There were no additional comments from the public, and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilwoman Walsh stated that Mr. Lasky is correct when he states that she was part of a prior CSAC when the issue of Pomander Walk came up initially. She said that the Village Council wants to conduct comprehensive studies on the challenges facing the Village, in order to avoid repeating the same things over and over. She said that everyone in the Village has the right to park on any street and at any business, but the question is finding the safest place to park. Currently the parking problems center on Sherman Place and Bogert Avenue and they have learned that by using Band-Aids to fix the problem, the problem only moves to another location. Councilman Walsh said that this is the reason that prior to ordinances being effective, Village officials must determine the cause and effect of these changes. Councilwoman Walsh stated that the ordinance passed relative to Pomander Walk was flawed because no one bothered to look at the consequences that would arise on neighboring streets. She lives on a cul de sac near Benjamin Franklin Middle School and knows first-hand about parking problems. People park illegally on her street every day, and drivers speed up and down the street
Councilwoman Walsh said that the intent is to improve safety, but safety on Pomander Walk will be jeopardized if the ordinance is changed with no plan in place to make it safer. The Village Council will have to work with CSAC, CBDAC, the Parking Utility and Ridgewood Police Department because serious enforcement is needed on every street. The Village Council needs to do something comprehensive because this is a quality of life issue.
Councilman Hache said he has serious concerns regarding pedestrian safety throughout the entire Village. Drivers today are distracted and seem to be more rushed; however, the problem always seems to come down to a tremendous lack of parking near and in the CBD. He pointed out that a long time Ridgewood resident and his ten-year-old child were recently struck by a car on Godwin Avenue, between Pomander and Sherman Place. This highlights the fact that the Village Council cannot wait until something tragic happens to get this right. Councilman Hache agreed that a comprehensive study is required to come up with a well thought out solution.
Councilman Sedon said that he was on the CSAC when parking on Pomander Walk was discussed. He thought that a study was going to be done; however, Ms. Mailander indicated that a study was not done. Councilman Sedon said that the entire area needs to be studied, including the Ridge School area. This ordinance should be tabled, so that a study of the entire situation can be done and the Village Council could move forward with any recommendations that are made.
Mayor Knudsen stated that she was surprised that the Village Council had previously considered an ordinance that would remove parking in its entirety from Pomander Walk. She reminded everyone that this is a public street and at the time of the initial vote, she had questioned residents on whether or not they would use the services of a landscaper or cleaning person, who would have to park on the street. She was assured that this would not happen; however, she has visited the street numerous times and has observed vehicles parking on Pomander Walk.
Mayor Knudsen said she reviewed the minutes of the CSAC meeting and there was consideration given to allow parking on one side of the street. It appears that the residents on Pomander Walk wanted all or nothing, which is the reason behind the ordinance. She said that she lives on a narrow street near a school and experiences cars coming up and down the street all day long. The street is close to a restaurant and a church; however, she doesn’t feel she has a right to expect zero parking on this street. She has safety concerns, but living in a no parking zone doesn’t restrict drivers from ever entering the street and turning around in a driveway.
Mayor Knudsen stated that the question for consideration is how to equally share the burden among everyone. She felt that this ordinance went too far and would negatively impact the surrounding streets. She is not in favor of tabling the ordinance and commented that the street could handle parking on one side, which would allow for access by emergency vehicles.
Councilman Voigt suggested that a vote be taken. Ms. Mailander recommended against tabling the ordinance in order to move forward with some type of action such as the comprehensive study.
Councilman Voigt made a motion to defeat the ordinance, which was seconded by Councilwoman Walsh.
A vote in favor of the motion is to defeat the ordinance.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt and Walsh
NAYS: Mayor Knudsen
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
l. Public Hearing - #3557 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Parking in the CBD
Mayor Knudsen moved the second reading of Ordinance 3557. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3557 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-29, “PARKING METER ZONE DESIGNATED” AND SECTION 265-33, “PERMIT PARKING” AND SECTION 265-80, ARTICLE X, “CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT EMPLOYEE PARKING”
Mayor Knudsen announced that the Public Hearing was open. Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, said he was surprised to read in this ordinance that some parking meters would be in effect until 10:00 P.M., Monday through Saturday. This is the case on Hudson Street, in a portion of the lot on Prospect Street, as well as on Chestnut Street. Councilman Voigt said that this is an error and thanked Mr. Loving for pointing this out. Mr. Loving was confused as to why the meters on the lot on Prospect Street are split into two different areas with parking enforcement during two different time periods. Ms. Mailander said that this was because there were some concerns that people with overnight parking passes would park in this lot all night from as early as mid-afternoon, and there wouldn’t been spaces available for shoppers or diners after 6:00 P.M. Mr. Loving questioned how the lot would be divided and Ms. Mailander said they would use signs.
Mr. Loving asked again if the meters would be in effect until 10:00 P.M. Mr. Rogers, Village Attorney, said that the ordinance needed to be changed to indicate that the meters are in effect until 6:00 P.M. Ms. Mailander indicated that the ordinance can be amended tonight. Mr. Loving indicated that he was still confused and Ms. Mailander explained that there are dedicated spaces for shoppers and diners at the Prospect Street lot, in order to discourage people with overnight passes from parking at 3:00 P.M. and then staying for the entire night. She asked if the Village Council wanted to simply change the ordinance to allow parking restrictions to end at 6:00 P.M. across the board. Mayor Knudsen said that the ordinance definitely reads that meters are in effect until 10:00 P.M. for 35 spaces.
Councilman Sedon remembered the discussion of overnight parking, but he said he didn’t realize that the Village Councilmembers had decided to extend the meters. Councilwoman Walsh stated that overnight parkers receive a sticker and they could potentially occupy spaces from 2:00 P.M. paying the meter until 6:00 P.M., and then staying the rest of the night. This means these spots are not available to any diners or shoppers, which appears to defeat the purpose of opening spaces for Village patrons.
Councilman Voigt questioned the number of overnight parking permits that have been issued and Ms. Mailander estimated the number to be in the low to mid-twenties. There was further discussion of how to address the issue and Ms. Mailander suggested changing the restricted parking so that it is not in force after 6:00 P.M., and if they find that the spaces for diners and shoppers are occupied by overnight parkers, the ordinance can be changed again.
Ms. Mailander noted that the overnight parking sticker specifically states that it is good for parking from 11:00 P.M. until 8:00 A.M., even though people are probably parking earlier that 11:00 P.M. She suggested that overnight parkers be excluded from the shopper and diner spots and this ordinance would be ready for introduction in December. Councilman Sedon stated that the time for parking enforcement remains at 6:00 P.M. and any problems that arise could be addressed at a later date.
Paul Vagianos, 280 Rivera Court, said he had just stepped into the Court Room and it appears to him that the meter times will be increased. Councilman Hache explained that the meter times are not being increased.
Claude Bienstock, 39-11B Broadway, Fair Lawn, said that traffic and parking is a problem in every community and he has faith that the members of the Village Council will do the right thing, and what is best for the community. Speeding is a problem everywhere, and Mr. Bienstock urged the Village Council to do whatever they can to ensure that cars travel within the speed limit.
There were no further comments from the public, and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Sedon made a motion to amend Ordinance 3557 to include 6:00 P.M. parking on Prospect Street, Chestnut Street and Hudson Street. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Voigt made a motion to adopt Ordinance 3557, as amended, on second reading, and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
n. Public Hearing - #3558 – Amend Chapter 145– Fees – Parking Permit Fees
Mayor Knudsen moved the second reading of Ordinance 3558 and that the Public Hearing be opened. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3558 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 145 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, FEES, AT SECTION 145-6, “ENUMERATION OF FEES RELATING TO CODE CHAPTERS”
Mayor Knudsen announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Hache moved that Ordinance 3558 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: Councilwoman Walsh
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
11. RESOLUTIONS
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 16-335 THROUGH 16-357, WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA, WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 16-358 THROUGH 16-360, WERE CONSIDERED SEPARATELY AND READ IN FULL:
12. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Mayor Knudsen asked if there was anyone from the public wishing to address the Village Council.
Diane Palacios, 342 North Van Dien Avenue, referred to comments by Councilmembers Hache and Walsh pertaining to prevailing driving methods. Ms. Palacios said she lives across from Benjamin Franklin Middle School and leaves the house around 8:00 A.M. when there is a lot of school traffic. She was travelling approximately 20 mph yesterday when someone began to honk their horn indicating that she should speed up in the midst of school traffic. She agreed that the type of driver is definitely different from those she encountered when she initially moved to Ridgewood in 1978. Ms. Palacios said that a person’s character is revealed by the way they drive and there is a character deficit in people revealed by the way they drive.
Ms. Palacios said the solution is strict policing and to deny this, is to ignore the facts. She stated that it is against the law to honk at someone going 20 mph on a congested street. People speeding on narrow, local roads should be prosecuted.
Peter Quinn, 66 Pomander Walk, thanked the Village Council for their consideration and constructive discussion that took place this evening about parking restrictions on Pomander Walk.
Melanie McWilliams, 431 Bogert Avenue, stated that the Village Council is keeping Pomander Walk in a cocoon and she sees no harm in sharing the burden with Sherman Place and Washington Avenue. There are eight children living on Pomander Walk, as well as sidewalks. There are over thirty children on Sherman Place and Washington Avenue, along with those dropped off for schools in these areas. Ms. McWilliams said that tabling the ordinance was a poor choice and she wondered why the process was rushed at the conclusion by Councilman Voigt.
Ms. McWilliams commented that it took eight years to get to where they are today on Bogert Avenue and she will continue to walk in the middle of the street, next to cars and leaf piles, with four small children until the ordinance regarding parking on Bogert Avenue is adopted. She asked if there was any room for discussion regarding the Bogert Avenue ordinance and added that she does not foresee any impact on neighboring streets if it does pass. She would like to have the ordinance extended to cover a few more hours during the day; however, she is happy that something is being done.
Councilman Voigt said there was no attempt to rush the ordinance on Pomander Walk. The Village Manager requested that a vote be taken. Mayor Knudsen clarified that the vote taken was to defeat the ordinance.
Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, spoke about leaf pick-up and recalled that he pointed out at the previous meeting that landscapers were not putting leaves on the street per the schedule. Village Code 1863 requires that landscapers be registered and the Mayor had asked that the names of the registered landscapers be put on the Village website, which has never been done. In the interim, Mr. Loving submitted an OPRA request and received a list of all of the registered landscapers in the Village. He was surprised to find that the phone numbers were redacted from the list. He questioned why the phone numbers were eliminated and was informed that it is standard procedure to redact all phone numbers, which he finds hard to believe. Mr. Loving said that he found a landscaper working on his street whose name was not on the list, which leads him to believe that Ordinance 1863 is not being enforced.
Mr. Loving said he saw Maria Doerr, the Court Administrator, to get a copy of all of the violation notices pertaining to Ordinance 1863 during the past year. Ms. Doerr said she would get the information to him, but off hand she doesn’t recall one summons that has been issued to anyone who has not registered as a landscaper. Mr. Loving supports the Mayor’s request that this list be put on the website so residents can see which landscapers are or are not registered and maybe some of the landscapers will be embarrassed enough to register, so their names are not as prominent.
Mr. Loving recalled that there were some questions surrounding the TAP grant. He said that some people weren’t aware of what it was and hadn’t seen the plan. The Village Council did not get the plan until the last minute, but is now approving a submission and he asked for an explanation of the submission.
Mayor Knudsen said that members of the Village Council have seen the plan and realize that there is an opportunity to install sidewalks where none exist. The TAP grant requires that safe pedestrian pathways are facilitated. Councilwoman Walsh pointed out opportunities to add ramping to the curb cuts on the plan. Mr. Loving indicated support for the grant application.
Mayor Knudsen asked if landscapers receive a sticker for the window of their vehicle when they register. Ms. Mailander said that a sticker is given to them, but if they register as a home improvement contractor from the State, a sticker is not required by the Village.
13. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION
Ms. Mailander read Resolution #16-361 to go into Closed Session as follows:
14. ADOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Voigt, seconded by Councilwoman Walsh, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 9:55 P.M.
_________________________________ Susan Knudsen Mayor
_________________________________ Heather A. Mailander Village Clerk
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