20201209 - Village Council Regular Public Meeting Minutes
A REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD VIA ZOOM, DUE TO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC, ON DECEMBER 9, 2020 AT 8:00 P.M.
- CALL TO ORDER – OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS ACT – ROLL CALL – FLAG SALUTE
Mayor Knudsen called the meeting to order at 8:00 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. Councilwoman Walsh read a series of announcements regarding anyone wishing to make comments during the meeting or provide written comments for any future remote meeting. At roll call the following were present: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen. Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney.
Mayor Knudsen 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 our nation and our first responders.
- ACCEPTANCE OF FINANCIAL REPORTS
Mayor Knudsen moved the Bills, Claims, and Vouchers, and Statement of Funds on Hand as of November 30, 2020, be accepted as submitted. Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.
Before voting, Councilwoman Perron stated that to the extent the bills contain attorney’s fees for prosecuting the appeal in Fuhrman v. Mailander, she objects to those bills because she doesn’t feel that is a good expense of taxpayer money. A third circuit judge recently said that ballots win elections, not briefs. She added that with that objection, she will vote in favor.
Before voting, Mayor Knudsen stated that the Village of Ridgewood was sued by One Village, One Vote based on the Village Clerk performing her duties ethically, appropriately, and without bias and they fully support her decision. Unfortunately, her 32-year unblemished record has been tarnished by this unfounded and unjust outcome. She added that she supports all the bills and vouchers and appreciates all the work that went into that.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Council minutes of October 7, October 14, November 4, and November 9, 2020 having been reviewed by the Village Council and now available in the Village Clerk’s Office, be approved as submitted. Councilwoman Perron seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- PROCLAMATIONS
- PROCLAIM JANUARY RADON ACTION MONTH
Deputy Mayor Sedon read the following proclamation:
- COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Paul Fehlner, 125 Brookside Avenue, stated that his comment concerned the Village Council’s decision to spend money and time in litigation to correct the Village’s own mistake and seemingly to undo a democratic vote. That is a misuse of taxpayer money and contrary to democratic principles. In fact, a direct ballot example manifests the extreme example of true democracy, where each voter levers a decision on an issue rather than electing a representative to handle it. He stated that it was really upsetting under those circumstances to see the challenges, and that he was referring to the One Vote ballot issue from this election cycle which carried by nearly 20%. Mr. Fehlner stated that spending taxpayer dollars in defiance of the will of the majority of the voters, particularly when it is the majority’s taxpayer dollars that are being spent is, in his mind, not an acceptable use of funds.
Mr. Fehlner stated that he thinks it is particularly telling that 13,000 people voted on this issue which is more than double the number of people who voted in the last Village Council election. The fact that consolidating elections and increasing voter participation is, in his view, something that the Village Council should be actively supporting and not resisting. He asked they stop wasting public money to fight a valid election result that has the effect of increasing voter participation, as well as avoiding wasteful use of dollars in off-cycle elections.
Frank Mortimer, 426 Van Buren Street, stated that he wanted to make comments in support of HealthBarn. Bee City, USA is something he is very passionate about, and part of making sure that they get accredited every year is that during National Pollinators Week they have to do different programs to educate the public. HealthBarn has always been a big part of helping him to do so, both as a partner to help him find new programs and then working together, to have HealthBarn provide the programs to the public. He added that being a beekeeper and traveling throughout the area, he goes to many environmental fairs and people come up to him and when he says he’s from Ridgewood, multiple people have said that is where HealthBarn is located. In environmental circles, people know HealthBarn and it really brings a lot of positive energy and publicity to Ridgewood because HealthBarn is located in Ridgewood.
Mr. Mortimer added that HealthBarn helped with Feed the Frontlines, and he personally volunteered to help deliver the food. Seeing the frontline workers so grateful for the food, it was only possible because of the role that HealthBarn played. He knows that there has been some talk about having businesses on Village property, but from his standpoint there have been a lot of businesses that operate at different times on Village property. This includes all of the fairs that go on at Memorial Park at Van Neste Square, and the Graydon concession. To him, given the economy today and the businesses that are shutting down, it seems that creating a vacancy and losing all of the revenue that HealthBarn brings in and shares with our town, would not be the best business decision.
Mr. Mortimer stated that as a parent, his son has a severe dairy allergy and was very hesitant to try any kind of food. By participating in HealthBarn programs he saw how the food was grown and was willing to try it, which changed his diet significantly and made him not afraid of food. He added that for all of those reasons, he really hopes that HealthBarn can stay and he thanked the Village Council for their consideration.
Hans-Jurgen Lehmann, 234 Union Street, stated that he recently had a letter published in the Bergen Record and he wanted to read it into the record of the Village Council meeting. He stated that regarding the November vote to consolidate elections, he wrote “Ridgewood is continuing to fight the One Village, One Vote court decision, what is wrong with government in our Village?” He read the remainder of his letter regarding legal fees and the court’s decision in favor of the vote on the referendum, adding concern for the parking garage, Schedler property, and former VFW property. He added that streets are in disrepair and some are overwhelmed with leaf piles that are well past their pickup dates. He asked why the Village Council was considering the addition of a gun range that no one wants, and asked who authorized the expenditure of $10,000 for a site study and then an additional $5,000 for another site. He added that the Village authorized a $10,000 expenditure for a public relations consultant to handle media relations for our Police Department after events that put our Village in a negative light.
Mr. Lehmann stated that this is a pattern of fiscal irresponsibility that results in undue burdens on the taxpayers of Ridgewood. On a separate note, he would like to ask the Village Council once again to please bring the discussion of the HealthBarn in to public session, rather than discussing it behind closed doors.
Tom Schmidt, 326 Heights Road, stated that he was disappointed that the Village continues to spend tax dollars to overturn the clear will of the people, that all of the Village Council were elected to represent. It is hard to fathom how there can be an election with an overwhelming decision, and then those that are elected decide to overturn the will of the people. He urged them to please drop the appeal and not waste money and see how a consolidated vote in November works out, over the next couple of years.
Yvonne Nava, 227 Burnside Place, asked that the topic of the HealthBarn lease renewal be discussed in a public session. She spoke from a sustainability aspect, adding that she belongs to the Green Ridgewood Committee and knows how important HealthBarn activities are to the Village’s sustainability efforts and certifications, as well as what they do for the community. The second capacity is as a mom, she moved to Ridgewood three years ago looking for good education and extracurricular activities. They have found in HealthBarn a place where her daughter can learn so much more beyond cooking, including nutrition and where food is coming from. She requested that this topic be put onto the public agenda, so that they can rally community support.
Dan Kelly, 974 Hillcrest Road, thanked the Village Council for affording him the opportunity to speak, and for all of their time and effort serving our community. He stated that having HealthBarn as a tenant is an absolute no-brainer. This is a tenant who pays their rent on time, gives back to Ridgewood, feeds the community, and educates adults and children on healthy eating. This is a homerun tenant.
Mr. Kelly added that HealthBarn is a woman-owned small business, and it’s a successful small business. She employs people, gives people jobs, and recognizes the need for diversity, which is represented in her hiring practice. The purpose of HealthBarn is to educate people on healthy eating, and she also has a garden full of fresh vegetables. He added that working on Wall Street for 30 years, he saw how difficult it was for women to be successful and climb the corporate ladder, and it still isn’t easy for them. Thankfully, many of the large firms have recognized that, so much so that they demand diversity, not only on their Board of Directors but also from the Board of Directors for companies they underwrite, represent, or finance.
Mr. Kelly stated that a vote no on renewing HealthBarn’s lease is a vote against diversity. It is a setback to our Village and societal equality. He asked how the Village is supposed to attract more small businesses when the headlines on NewJersey.com, The Record, or the Star Ledger will read that the Village of Ridgewood voted no on renewal of the lease to a woman-owned small business.
Elaine Peneno, 719 Maxwell Place, stated that it is the people and the organizations they support, like HealthBarn USA and its foundation, Healing Meals, which make Ridgewood the best town. When she retired after being a nurse for 54 years, she wanted to channel her passion for cooking, to support the community she loves, as a volunteer. Two years ago, her dentist explained to her that her children had learned about growing and eating healthy foods at HealthBarn. Excitedly, Ms. Peneno contacted Stacey Antine and the rest is history.
Ms. Peneno stated that Healing Meals and Feed the Frontlines were so beneficial to the community, adding that as she prepared for this public comment, she was stymied as to why anyone would attempt to dispense of this organization. When she goes to Habernickel Farm, she sees children giggling and chatting on the back deck as they prepared food during the summer and fall. As a fellow resident and taxpayer, she has an obligation to encourage private partnerships like this one. Ones that help ease the tax burden on homeowners like herself, who in turn, support businesses that are invested in this town.
Ms. Peneno stated that $60,000 in capital improvements put into the Gate House (where HealthBarn is located), putting the public Habernickel property to good use, that also generates $50,000 annually for our Village via rent and recreational programming, and feeding our underserved. She asked that the Village Council not remove this gift from the Village.
Lori Weil, 262 McKinley Place, stated that the majority of Ridgewood residents voted to consolidate elections because it simply makes sense. Off cycle elections cost money, and it seems that too often, elections are held which pit our residents against one another. She decided to speak this evening to encourage the Village Council to accept the results of the referendum and to move on. She added that the vast majority of municipalities have elections in the fall, residents do their civic duty and become informed of local issues and then come out and vote. Ridgewood is a special place, but Ridgewood doesn’t need to be special with how elections are run. Ms. Weil stated that the majority of residents are tired of the vitriol on social media whenever there is election. There are so many who are tired of the personal attacks against benevolent volunteers like the Village Council. It is time to accept the vote, end the divisiveness, and focus the Village on more important issues that everyone is facing.
Ms. Weil stated that right now, the Village Council’s top priority should be supporting the downtown and finding creative ways to make up for revenue shortfalls that are continuing to mount, due to the pandemic. Now is not the time to spend resources and incur legal fees, challenging the results of the referendum. She urged the Village Council to focus on the important issues in the Village: the economic health, the health of the Village residents, the schools, traffic, roads, land development, community relations, emergency services, and there are so many really important issues that deserve attention. As elected officials, they should not be distracted by a vocal minority. They should be governing for the majority, a majority who voted to consolidate the elections, and they should be looking to save residents money, rather than spending it on frivolous legal challenges.
Jeffrey Deiss, 277 Orchard Place, stated that he opposed the litigation to overturn the results of the One Village One Vote referendum. Currently, he is attending college out of state and had the option to register out of state to vote, but he saw the opportunity to have an impact on his home community by registering to vote in his home community and voting on the referendum to consolidate elections. He stated that it was disheartening to see litigation being filed to fight against this, when it is clear that the public of Ridgewood has spoken in support of consolidating elections.
Mr. Deiss stated that he encouraged the Village Council to accept the results of the vote due to the democratic principles behind it. It is clear, due to the overwhelming majority of people that voted to consolidate the elections, that this is what the people of Ridgewood want. He was saddened to see that there are people who are trying to appeal this decision. He added that it was especially disheartening to see this, when there is currently democracy in question at a federal level with the Presidential Election results. He also encouraged the Village Council to stop the litigation, as unconsolidated elections cost a large amount of money. Going into a legal battle, also costs large amounts of taxpayer money.
Rurik Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, asked for an accounting of the monies that have been spent on the Schedler property. His understanding is that $1.5 million of public funds have been spent already and the Schedler House is far from being finished. He stated that the property looks like a dump with the big piles of dirt. He asked how much has been spent so far, what is the budget for the rest of the work, what do they expect from matching grants, what will the house be used for, and what is the budget for operating it.
Mr. Halaby stated that regarding the municipal question, he would say that the Mayor’s continuing effort to overturn the vote, is a slap in the face of the residents of Ridgewood. There was a resounding vote in favor of combining the elections in November. The Mayor’s machinations are an embarrassment and a terrible waste of valuable Village resources. Mayor Knudsen called a point of order, but Mr. Halaby continued with his statement. He asked the Village Council to force the Mayor to withdraw the appeal. He asked how he can address the dais without addressing the people behind it, and added that no one can take away his rights under the First Amendment.
Stacey Kliesch, 339 South Van Dien Avenue, stated that she spoke at a Village Council meeting about a month ago requesting that the negotiations and decision regarding the HealthBarn lease that is expiring in 2022, as well as any other conversation regarding that property, be moved into the public part of the meeting. Despite this request, it has continued to be discussed in closed session. She didn’t understand why that was, and she hoped to see it moved to the public portion of the next meeting.
Ms. Mailander stated that there were some written comments that were sent in.
Maria Tagliabue, 129 Woodland Avenue, stated that she was writing on behalf of Stacey Antine and the HealthBarn. She has been a customer of the HealthBarn for approximately ten years. Stacey Antine is an exemplary person and is exactly the type of person they want owning a business in our town. The HealthBarn’s core mission is teaching the fundamentals of good nutrition for a healthy life in a fun and impactful way. Good nutrition is a lesson that will impact the children of our community for a lifetime. Her adult programming is also exceptional. In addition, she is a founder of the HealthBarn Foundation that prepares and delivers healthy meals to senior homes in our town, as well as to local hospitals for families receiving chemo treatments. She wrote that she cannot understand why the Village would be against the HealthBarn
Jacqueline Dartley, 525 Van Dyke Street, wrote in support of Stacey Antine and the HealthBarn as a 30-year resident of Ridgewood and a full time professor of Biology at Bergen Community College. HealthBarn has become a unique institution in Ridgewood, and no other town has a resource like this one. It provides an invaluable education to children and adults of all ages regarding nutrition, agriculture, cooking, and healthy eating. She knows of no other organization in Bergen County that provides what the HealthBarn does to our community. Ridgewood’s distinctiveness is based on a combination of suburban and country flavor. HealthBarn adds to both these qualities in a manner that would be irreplaceable if it were forced out of our town.
Lisa Gardner, 714 Parsons Road, wrote that she is a member of ACCESS Ridgewood and has a 24 year old son with special needs. She wanted to voice her concerns about HealthBarn’s lease not renewing, as it provides wonderful programs for children, special needs children, and the elderly. They strive to teach each of them healthy eating habits and gardening. Her son has been part of the recent culinary program for disabled young adults. For her son, this is a time to socialize with other young adults just like him. As part of ACCESS Ridgewood, she can also say that Stacey Antine has been very generous to their committee. She added that HealthBarn has done nothing but good for this community and she feels that if their lease is not renewed it would be a great loss to all of us.
There was one additional raised hand during the reading of the comments.
Kathy Marshall, 136 Linden Street, stated that she served for over six years on the Village’s Parks, Recreation and Conservation Board when the Village purchased Schedler, and she also has a lot of ties to Habernickel. She added that before HealthBarn, there were two houses rented to families, and the house where HealthBarn is now was rented to a family who was in arrears on the rent and it was not a financial advantage to the Village. She believes that HealthBarn adds a benefit to the Village and that public-private partnerships are really the only way they are going to be able to maintain properties on our public lands. She is also familiar with the greenspace requirement for tenants that go into those properties and they are onerous. She encouraged the Village Council to look at all of those factors as they consider possible future tenancy at Habernickel.
Ms. Marshall stated that regarding Schedler, she is disappointed that the passive and active recreational plans, that were developed ten years ago when the property was purchased, have not been further implemented and executed. She added that she would like to see a public-private partnership for the Schedler property, to raise funds for the development of that area, for those going to a park, on the other side of Route 17.
Ms. Marshall also encouraged the Village Council to honor the democratic process and the conceptual belief of the majority of voters in this town who voted to consolidate elections to November.
There were no additional comments from the public.
Mayor Knudsen stated that she wanted to be clear that the Village Council is not doing lease negotiations in closed session for HealthBarn. The discussion for HealthBarn was whether or not the tenant wanted to exercise a one-year option that was her right to do, and she opted to do so. It is unclear to her where this misinformation is being generated from, but they are not discussion lease negotiations or anything behind closed doors. They go through an RFP process that was implemented in 2015 and that is the process they will be required to go through again for the next round, if that is how they choose to proceed.
Mayor Knudsen stated that regarding the litigation, this is a matter of an entity that sued the Village. It was One Village, One Vote that made a mistake and had errors on the petition that the Village Clerk deemed to be deficient based on those errors. She performed her duties appropriately and this is something that tarnished the 32 year career of a person who has served the Village community well.
Councilwoman Perron stated that she thinks the issue becomes what happens to the Gatehouse at the end of the current lease. Mayor Knudsen stated that she is only clarifying the misinformation that is being circulated.
- MANAGER’S REPORT
Ms. Mailander stated that the Downtown for the Holidays Event has a revised plan due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Social distancing and face masks will be required. It will be held this Friday, December 11th from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. There will be lights, a children’s table, dancers and mimes in shop windows from Art of Motion and HeART of Motion Studio, and Santa will be in the window of Panico. The Grinch will be appearing on various rooftops throughout the CBD. The stores and eateries will welcome everyone as they all join together to start the holiday season. There will also be a Grinch Hunt. He can be found through December 21st in many of the local stores and eateries, and when one finds him, that person will provide his/her contact information to be entered into a prize drawing.
Ms. Mailander stated that beginning December 10th, the lights of the Menorah will shine in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square. There will be no gathering or event during Hanukkah this year.
Ms. Mailander stated that there is a Regional Community Drive Thru COVID-19 Testing at Bergen Community College, Lot B, a few days each week during December. Testing is from 9:00 A. M. to 2:30 P.M. until December 30th, pre-registration is required. Further details are on the Village website.
Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that there is free parking in the parking lots, on Saturdays December 12th and December 19th, in the Central Business District. That also includes the Hudson Street Parking Garage. Street parking remains at $1.25 per hour during this event. The parking areas near the Christmas tree and MacMurphy’s restaurant are not parking lots, so the rate is $1.25 per hour.
Ms. Mailander stated that they are collecting new, unused toiletries for those in need. They can be dropped off through December 17th at the YMCA, Bookends, Araya Rebirth, Hillman Lighting, Chestnut Catering, the AT&T Store on Route 17, and the Ridgewood Library.
Ms. Mailander stated that the Hudson Street Garage is now open on all levels. The rate is $1.00 per hour. The first level is three hour parking, the second and third levels are premium Ridgewood parking permits, and the fourth level is half dedicated to non-premium Ridgewood parking permits and the other half to CBD employees. For the CBD employee parking spaces, an employee must have a CBD employee sticker, and/or pay by Parkmobile or by CBD employee hangtag, which is available at the Village Hall Reception Desk. On all levels from 12 noon forward, anyone can park without a permit for three hours, by paying at the kiosk or by Parkmobile.
Ms. Mailander stated that 15-minute complimentary parking spaces in the Central Business District will be available by Thursday or Friday. They are on Oak Street, Chestnut Street, North Broad Street, off of East Ridgewood Avenue, and Wilsey Square just after the loading zone. These parking spaces are limited to 15-minutes only. They are free of charge to everyone and are to be used to do a quick errand or pick up food or visit a business. These spaces have been generously sponsored by several local businesses and Ridgewood residents, which are acknowledged on the 15-minute parking signs.
Ms. Mailander stated that the Food Recycling Pilot Program is getting underway. Food is one of the largest parts of our solid waste stream and we pay to send food scraps to the landfill and the costs are increasing. This pilot program offers an expanded option for food waste disposal, providing a means to include residents who are unable to do backyard composting or who will continue backyard composting but would also like to recycle items that are not compatible to backyard composting. Those interested should fill out an application. Those participating in the Pilot Program will receive a five gallon food scrap container which the resident will empty weekly at the Recycling Center, along with a weekly data collection. Anyone interested should contact the Recycling Center and ask for an application to participate. The program will begin in the next three to six weeks and residents are requested to participate for at least the next 9 months.
Ms. Mailander stated that the 2020 leaf placement dates were mailed on a yellow postcard to each household. Please remember that the dates on the postcard are the placement dates and crews arrive after that time. Once the leaf placement dates have passed for a particular section, leaves should not be placed in the street again until the next leaf placement dates occur for that section. Further details are posted on the Village website on the Leaf Collection tile on the homepage.
Ms. Mailander stated that the Welcome Back to Ridgewood, New Jersey event has been put on hold until the weather warms up in 2021.
Ms. Mailander stated that Cards of Joy, writing letters and cards to those who may need cheer or may be alone during the holidays, is an easy way to make a big difference. Recipients love it when cards are detailed and heartfelt. Completed cards can be dropped off at the Ridgewood Library by December 11th.
Ms. Mailander stated that the Village Council’s upcoming meetings are televised live, streamed on the website, are shown on YouTube, as well as the public access channels. The upcoming meetings are: January 6th is a Public Work Session at 7:30 P.M., January 13th is a Village Council Public Meeting at 8:00 P.M., and January 27th is a Public Work Session at 7:30 P.M.
Ms. Mailander stated that all Village Offices will be closed on December 24th and 25th in observance of the Christmas Holiday, and also on January 1st on observance of the New Year’s Holiday. There will be no garbage or recycling collection on December 25th and January 1st, and the Recycling Center will also be closed. Garbage and recycling collection will take place on December 24th, and the Recycling Center will also be open on that day.
Ms. Mailander wished everyone a very happy holiday season.
- VILLAGE COUNCIL REPORTS
Dr. Daniel Fishbein, Superintendent of Ridgewood Public Schools – Councilwoman Walsh thanked Dr. Fishbein for his commitment to the Village and she wanted to acknowledge some of his accomplishments. She stated that Dr. Fishbein has served with distinction as Ridgewood Public Schools Superintendent from 2008 through 2020, and is known for his energy, passion for education, love of children, compassion, and humility. He was instrumental in bringing full day Kindergarten to Ridgewood by engaging community members in discussions as to why such instruction made educational sense for Ridgewood’s young learners. Under his leadership, the district improved the special education program such that fewer Ridgewood residents are educated out of district and a new program for ages 18 to 21, was launched.
Councilwoman Walsh stated that during Dr. Fishbein’s tenure, the district was able to build a new gym at George Washington Middle School, install a new track and field stadium at Ben Franklin Middle School, lay turf fields for athletics, create drop off lanes that were safe, replace roofs, floors, and windows, and established upgrades to school security. Dr. Fishbein enhanced environmental sustainability through the installation of solar panels at eight school buildings, the planting of trees, and minimizing cafeteria waste. His understanding of social and emotional learning led to the expansion of in-school counseling services, including the addition of crisis counseling services. Dr. Fishbein also embraced the National Alliance on Mental Health’s Stigma Free Initiative, which strives to change the way the world views mental health.
Councilwoman Walsh wished Dr. Fishbein good luck in his retirement, and happy holidays to everyone in the Village of Ridgewood.
Councilwoman Perron stated that Dr. Fishbein’s leadership through the 2020 pandemic led to early preparations for a shut down, and his weekly emails to Ridgewood Public School families provided comfort, critical information, and welcome humor during dark and uncertain days. His steady guidance through reopening in the fall allowed Ridgewood Schools to reopen with both in person and remote learning options. The teachers and administrators admire Dr. Fishbein for his fair, unbiased hiring practices and his positive leadership in building a team that works well together while maintaining the school district’s tradition of excellence. Dr. Fishbein, a longtime Ridgewood resident and the father of five Ridgewood High graduates, is now retiring; therefore, she gratefully acknowledged his outstanding service to the community and recognized his unwavering support of the public school district’s children, parents, teachers, and administrators.
Mayor Knudsen stated that for the past four years, she and the Village Manager have been meeting every month with members of the Board of Education and the Superintendent. They managed to work together on a number of initiatives that were very successful. Obviously, the challenges of COVID-19 were very stressful for everyone. They look forward to working with the new Superintendent and would like to wish Dr. Fishbein the best. The Board of Education has initiated a community-wide survey to develop a leadership profile so that a baseline is established in the search for a new Superintendent.
Chamber of Commerce – Councilwoman Perron stated that the Chamber of Commerce met this morning. One retailer who parks his car in the garage noted that on the second and third levels there are very few cars and asked if those three top levels could be open to 12 hour parking so that there would be more usage. She added that the President of the Chamber of Commerce, Scott Leif, is going to finish out his term, but he is not going to serve after that, so there will be a new President of the Chamber of Commerce as of July 1st.
Councilwoman Perron stated that for the Restaurant Report, pickup and delivery are imperative at this point and they asked that Grab and Go 15-minutes be strictly enforced. They noted that sometimes trucks and contractors are parking there for well over the 15-minute limit. They also mentioned that landlords in town are reducing their rents to keep tenants and there are almost no tenants downtown that are paying full rent.
Green Ridgewood – Councilwoman Perron stated that Green Ridgewood met last week and they are hoping that their website can be migrated over to WordPress so that it can be linked to the Village website. There will be a Styrofoam collection on December 26th in Hillsdale. The first hour is only for Hillsdale residents and then from 10:30 A.M. to 12:30 P.M. other county residents can go. There will be another collection on January 2nd in Fair Lawn. Ridgewood will be doing its own collection in the Spring.
Councilwoman Perron stated that Green Ridgewood has a subcommittee on leaf blowers to see what can be done about that noise pollution and the potential harm to the workers who use them. She added that Green Ridgewood is very excited about the food waste composting Pilot Program, adding that people can apply online if they go to Departments, DPW, and then Recycling. Their next meeting will be on January 7th. She added that they agreed at the last meeting that they would like to recommend to the Village Council that they consider a residential renewable energy aggregation program, and they have arranged for Gable Associates to speak to the Village Council at the next meeting on January 6th.
Planning Board – Councilwoman Reynolds stated that on December 15th, the Planning Board will be meeting.
Citizens Safety Advisory Committee – Councilwoman Reynolds stated that on December 10th, Citizens Safety Advisory Committee will be meeting for their very first Zoom session.
Councilwoman Reynolds wished everyone a happy and healthy new year, adding that she hopes everyone stays healthy and safe, and that they be careful and be smart.
Community Center Advisory Board – Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that the Community Center Advisory Board met on Thursday, adding that although the Community Center has been closed, Deanna Schablik and Village employees have been assisting residents who were in some of the programs. They are trying to help them set up Zoom meetings to do their exercise classes in their homes, while everything is closed down.
The Annual Holiday Party will be held via Zoom on December 17th, and Ms. Schablik will have the information on how to join and participate.
Green Ridgewood and the Green Team – Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that the Green Team met along with Green Ridgewood. The Green Team continues to get organized for next year’s submission to Sustainable Jersey, in order to keep the Village’s Sustainable Jersey Silver Certification.
Ridgewood Arts Council – Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that the Ridgewood Arts Council met for the first time in months and the committee is going to reorganize and get on track. They will meet the second Thursday of every month. The next meeting will be January 14th at 7:30 P.M. Members led by Chair Audrey Fink, were able to continue the third annual Holiday Window Display contest for downtown businesses. Lora Celli Salon won on Godwin Avenue, Biltmore Tuxedo was one of the winners, and Rey Sol Coffee won as well.
Shade Tree Commission – Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that the Shade Tree Commission met yesterday, but he was unable to join the meeting due to technical difficulties. He will get the minutes and update his report at the next meeting.
Downtown for the Holidays – Mayor Knudsen asked that everyone participate in Downtown for the Holidays. They were asking everyone that during COVID-19, as many businesses grapple with the challenges of making ends meet, to shop local this holiday season. She added that it is a scaled back, COVID-friendly approach this year. She mentioned that the Grinch is hidden throughout the downtown, and there will be a drawing for each of the 28 hidden Grinches.
Mayor Knudsen wished everyone happy holidays, Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and encouraged everyone to mask up, adding that there have been a lot of positives in 2020.
- ORDINANCES – RIDGEWOOD WATER - NONE
- RESOLUTIONS – RIDGEWOOD WATER
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 20-365 THROUGH 20-388, WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION, NUMBERED 20-389, WAS CONSIDERED SEPARATELY AND READ IN FULL:
- ORDINANCES
- INTRODUCTION - #3833 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Establish Stop Signs at Shelton Road and Steilen Avenue
Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of ordinance 3833. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3833 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-59, SCHEDULE IX: “STOP INTERSECTIONS”
Deputy Mayor Sedon moved that ordinance 3833 be adopted on first reading and that January 13, 2021 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilwoman Perron seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- INTRODUCTION - #3834 – Authorize Renewal of PILOT Agreement – Ridgecrest
Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of ordinance 3834. Councilwoman Perron seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3834 by title:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A FINANCIAL AGREEMENT WITH RIDGEWOOD SENIOR CITIZEN HOUSING CORP., INC., AND RIDGECRESET URBAN RENEWAL L.L.P. GRANTING A TAX EXEMPTION FOR RIDGECREST SENIOR CITIZEN HOUSING
Deputy Mayor Sedon moved that ordinance 3834 be adopted on first reading and that January 13, 2021 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilwoman Perron seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- PUBLIC HEARING - #3824 – Amend Chapter 215 – Peace and Good Order – Establish Regulations for Municipal Parking Facilities
Mayor Knudsen moved the reading of ordinance 3824 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3824 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 215, PEACE AND GOOD ORDER, OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, AT SECTION 215-2, PUBLIC PLACES AND SECTION 215-7, MUNICIPAL PARKING FACILITIES
Mayor Knudsen stated that the Public Hearing was opened. There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilwoman Walsh moved that ordinance 3824 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- PUBLIC HEARING - #3825 – Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Hudson Street Parking Lot Permit
Mayor Knudsen moved the reading of ordinance 3825 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Perron seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3825 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 stated that the Public Hearing was opened. There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilwoman Perron seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Deputy Mayor Sedon moved that ordinance 3825 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Perron seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- PUBLIC HEARING - #3826 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Permit Parking
Mayor Knudsen moved the reading of ordinance 3826 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Deputy Mayor Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3826 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-33, “PERMIT PARKING”
Mayor Knudsen stated that in section C (7) of this ordinance, the second sentence currently reads, ‘Parking rates still apply from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, and payment must be made.’ This should be amended to read, ‘Parking rates still apply from 12:00 p.m. (noon), Monday through Friday, and payment must be made.’ This is not a substantive change, so she will ask for a motion to amend the ordinance. Councilwoman Perron moved that Ordinance 3826 be amended as outlined by Mayor Knudsen. 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 stated that the Public Hearing on ordinance 3826, as amended, was opened. There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing 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
Councilwoman Perron moved that ordinance 3826, as amended, be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Deputy Mayor Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- PUBLIC HEARING - #3827 – 2020 Non-Union Salary Ordinance
Mayor Knudsen moved the reading of ordinance 3827 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3827 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 2020
Mayor Knudsen stated that the Public Hearing was opened. There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilwoman Reynolds moved that ordinance 3827 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- PUBLIC HEARING - #3828 – 2020 Management Salary Ordinance
Mayor Knudsen moved the reading of ordinance 3828 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Deputy Mayor Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3828 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 2020
Mayor Knudsen stated that the Public Hearing was opened. There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing 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
Councilwoman Perron moved that ordinance 3828 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Deputy Mayor Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- PUBLIC HEARING - #3829 – 2021 Non-Union Salary Ordinance
Mayor Knudsen moved the reading of ordinance 3829 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3829 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 2021
Mayor Knudsen stated that the Public Hearing was opened. There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilwoman Walsh moved that ordinance 3829 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- PUBLIC HEARING - #3830 – 2021 Management Salary Ordinance
Mayor Knudsen moved the reading of ordinance 3830 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Deputy Mayor Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3830 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 2021
Mayor Knudsen stated that the Public Hearing was opened. There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing 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
Councilwoman Perron moved that ordinance 3830 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Deputy Mayor Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- PUBLIC HEARING - #3831 – Amend Various Salary Ordinances
Mayor Knudsen moved the reading of ordinance 3831 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3831 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND SALARY ORDINANCE 3608 FIXING THE SALARIES, WAGES AND OTHER COMPENSATION FOR WHITE COLLAR EMPLOYEES; AND TO AMEND SALARY ORDINANCE 3618 FIXING SALARIES, WAGES AND OTHER COMPENSATION OF AND FOR THE SUPERVISORY EMPLOYEES; AND TO AMEND SALARY ORDINANCE 3752, FIXING SALARIES, WAGES AND OTHER COMPENSATION AND TO ESTABLISH THE “EMPLOYEE AGREEMENT” OF CERTAIN NON-UNION OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES; AND TO AMEND SALARY ORDINANCE 3753, 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
Mayor Knudsen stated that the Public Hearing was opened. There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Deputy Mayor Sedon moved that ordinance 3831 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- PUBLIC HEARING - #3832 – Special Emergency Ordinance to Appropriate $2,047,254, Related to the COVID-19 Pandemic Public Health Emergency
Mayor Knudsen moved the reading of ordinance 3832 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Perron seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read ordinance 3832 by title:
ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING A SPECIAL EMERGENCY APPROPRIATION IN THE AMOUNT OF $2,047,254, OR SUCH OTHER AMOUNT CERTIFIED BY THE DIRECTOR OF THE DIVISION OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT SERVICES, FOR THE PURPOSES SET FORTH IN N.J.S.A. 40A:4-53(L) AND/OR N.J.S.A. 40A:4-53(M), IN AND BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY
Mayor Knudsen stated that the Public Hearing was opened. There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilwoman Perron seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilwoman Reynolds moved that ordinance 3832 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Perron seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
- RESOLUTIONS
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 20-390 THROUGH 20-415, WITH THE EXCEPTION OF RESOLUTION 20-397, WHICH HAS BEEN REMOVED FROM THE AGENDA, WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:
- COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Jeanne Johnson, 325 Mastin Place, stated that since there is no longer a reputable news source in Ridgewood it is easy to disseminate misinformation, especially from the dais. She wanted to share some details that might clear up the situation regarding HealthBarn. Several weeks ago, the Village Manager called the owner of HealthBarn and informed her that she could sign a one year lease extension but would not be given the courtesy to rebid an additional five year lease as was recommended in the original lease agreement. Apparently the Village Council did not want to continue the relationship between the Village and HealthBarn and no one has been able to tell them why.
Ms. Johnson stated that several Village Councilmembers have visited HealthBarn over the last few weeks and some have informed the owner of HealthBarn there isn’t anything anyone can do to change this situation. Evidently, the Village Council seems to want HealthBarn out of Habernickel. As a tenant, this is disconcerting, and the owner of HealthBarn has reached out to the Village Manager numerous times to no avail. Community members have been told by reliable sources a variety of stories about why the Village is reluctant to allow the HealthBarn to remain at Habernickel, but none of them make sense especially from a fiscal point of view.
Ms. Johnson stated that members of this Village Council have stated that they are committed to complete transparency, and if that is true, she questioned why the HealthBarn discussions are taking place behind closed doors. Ms. Johnson also asked why someone from the Village Council is calling residents to discuss this issue, and why that Councilmember is intimidating these residents and threatening them to stay quiet. She asked if this is how residents want the governing body to represent them. She requested that the terms of the HealthBarn lease be discussed in open public session on January 6th, and she asked that the owner of HealthBarn be allowed to rebid an additional 5-year lease agreement before February 2021. Ms. Johnson added that it is going to take the owner of HealthBarn a long time to find a new home and the sooner she finds out if she can stay at Habernickel, then the sooner she can continue doing the great work that she does for Ridgewood and its residents. Ms. Johnson asked with respect that the Village Council remember that it is their obligation to do what the majority of residents, requests.
Alina Swanson, 179 Claremont Road, stated that she has been attending Village Council meetings for the past month and it has been wonderful hearing everyone calling in support of HealthBarn. It has been made clear that the owner of HealthBarn has the right to extend the one year lease, which she has executed, but she asked what else is being discussed in closed session. She stated that there is so much secrecy going on, and it needs to be moved to open session. If the Village Council is considering an alternative use of the Gate House, the residents deserve to know that and they need to be part of that conversation.
Ms. Swanson added that now that the lease is extended one year, the RFP process needs to begin so that HealthBarn is given an opportunity to go forward and bid just like any other organization that may want to have a purpose or a role there. So many people are calling in saying how much they love HealthBarn and yet there is complete silence from the Village Council. She added that she would like to see this moved into open session and discussed before the Village Council.
Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that the Open Public Meetings Act of New Jersey requires them to place an item on the agenda indicating when they are going to discuss a closed session topic about a particular instance. Since this Council took office on July 1st there have been 15 Village Council meetings, he noted one item on December 2nd of this year where 1057 Hillcrest Road was discussed in closed session. There was one time in 15 meetings where this item was on the agenda.
Mr. Loving stated that these people who are calling up suggesting that the Village Council is violating the law because they were discussing something in closed session without properly noting it, if they have evidence to support this, they need to go to the authorities. He personally believes that this Village Council is not in violation of the law and the December 2nd instance of one item on the closed session agenda of 1057 Hillcrest Road Contract Discussions was the only time it was discussed in closed session. The comments that are being made suggesting the Village Council is violating the law are slanderous in his opinion and they have got to stop.
Mr. Loving stated that the Mayor has mentioned on two separate occasions that there are no closed session discussions regarding extending the lease of HealthBarn that are taking place. People have got to believe this. He reiterated that if anyone has evidence that the Village Council is breaking the law, they need to go to the proper authorities. He added that he personally doesn’t think that is happening, and that the December 2nd meeting was the only time where it was discussed in Closed Session. It is bad for the community to have this happen, they have to stop now, and if they don’t, he would suggest that the Village Attorney take appropriate action, as it is a bunch of lies and has got to stop.
There were no additional comments from the public.
Mayor Knudsen stated that Jeanne Johnson made her statement about the spread of misinformation and then made a comment that was unfounded. It really is important that a conversation between a Village Manager, a landlord, and a tenant is between the landlord and the tenant and she is unclear how that information got around. It is her understanding based upon their conversation in closed session that the Village Manager took her instruction from the Village Council to determine whether or not the tenant wanted to exercise her option to extend her lease. To make allegations that were made by Ms. Johnson are inappropriate and outrageous.
Mayor Knudsen stated that to correct Mr. Loving, she does believe that they discussed HealthBarn in two closed sessions and that was discussion of exercising the option and another discussion about contract and extending that option. She doesn’t think this is anything that is violation of the law and they will go from there.
- RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION
Ms. Mailander read Resolution #20-416 to go into Closed Session as follows:
- ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilwoman Perron, seconded by Deputy Mayor Sedon, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Regular Public Meeting was adjourned at 9:43 P.M.
______________________________
Susan Knudsen
Mayor
______________________________
Heather A. Mailander
Village Manager/Village Clerk
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