20160511 - 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 MAY 11, 2016 AT 8:00 P.M.
- CALL TO ORDER – OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS ACT – ROLL CALL – FLAG SALUTE – MOMENT OF SILENCE
Mayor Aronsohn called the meeting to order at 8:03 p.m. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. At roll call, the following were present: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn. Also present were Roberta Sonenfeld, Village Manager; Heather A. Mailander, Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney.
Mayor Aronsohn led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag. Mayor Aronsohn then asked for a moment of silence to honor the men and women in the United States Armed Forces who protect and defend our freedom every day, as well as those serving as first responders.
2. ACCEPTANCE OF FINANCIAL REPORTS
Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Bills, Claims, and Vouchers, and Statement of Funds on hand as of April 30, 2016, be accepted as submitted. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Mayor Aronsohn moved that the minutes of April 6, April 13, and October 7, 2015 having been reviewed by the Village Council and now available in the Village Clerk’s Office be approved as submitted. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
4. PROCLAMATIONS
A. National Cancer Survivors Day
Councilman Pucciarelli read the following proclamation:
B. Emergency Medical Services Week
Councilwoman Knudsen read the following proclamation:
C.Proclaim May as Mental Health Month
Councilman Sedon read the following proclamation:
D.Proclaim May as Older Americans Month
Councilwoman Hauck read the following proclamation:
5. SWEARING-IN OF FIRE LIEUTENANT JOHN YOUNG
John Young was sworn in as a Fire Lieutenant in the Ridgewood Fire Department by Mayor Aronsohn. Fire Lieutenant Young’s wife and son held the Bible.
Mayor Aronsohn introduced a new business in the Village, D’Parz, which sells high fashion footwear. The owner of the business said that she is happy to be opening her business in Ridgewood and invited everyone to come to her shop.
6. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Mayor Aronsohn announced that there would now be comments from the public. Leigh Warren, 140 Washington Place, asked why bulk pickup is not done on Mondays. She said that it makes sense, because this way, people can clean out their homes over a weekend and then they will be able to put their bulk refuse on the curb Sunday night, in time for a Monday morning pickup. The regular garbage pickup schedule could be rearranged to allow for the bulk pickup on Mondays. Ms. Warren asked that this change in pickup schedules be seriously considered.
Sally Brandes, 515 Stevens Avenue, congratulated the newly elected Village Councilmembers. She noted that it was a record turnout for a Municipal Election, and she is glad that so many came out to vote.
Changing the subject, Ms. Brandes asked about the developments which will be happening in the Central Business District (CBD) and she said that in other municipalities, they do studies to determine the impact of developments. She said that sewer and water capacities should also be looked at during these studies.
Chris Lewer, Manager of Santoni’s Pizza located at 88 Godwin Avenue, said that he is opposed to the parking ban on Pomander Walk. He indicated that that there is little parking in the lot where his restaurant it located and his business uses Pomander Walk for overflow parking. He said that if Pomander Walk has no parking, then the parking will move to other streets, like Sherman Place. Mr. Lewer said that the businesses lend a charm to Ridgewood, and this parking ban will be detrimental to his business. He requested that there be a parking ban on only one side of the street, with a 2-hour limited parking on the other side of the street, because this is a great place for his customers to park.
Mr. Lewer said that he works with the community by donating to the Ridgewood High School band; the Ridgewood Lacrosse, and they sponsor Little League teams. He explained his business also donate to countless tricky tray events and provides services to the Ridgewood Parks and Recreation Department. There are only fourteen parking spaces in the lot by his store. Mr. Lewer said that he cares a lot about the kids in the Village and on Pomander Walk. Mr. Lewer said that they tell their delivery drivers to drive with safety and caution. Mr. Lewer said that he hopes to have a permanent solution to this problem, which will be fair to both the residents and to his business.
Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, said that she is bringing up the fact that the security cameras in the Court Room should be improved. On another matter, Ms. Loving said that she agrees that the Village should stop enforcing the ordinance which prohibits A-frame signs in the Central Business District. Finally, Ms. Loving said that all parks in Ridgewood should allow dogs. She pointed out that people usually leave more of a mess in parks than animals.
There were no further comments from the public.
Ms. Sonenfeld explained that the Water Pollution Control Facility and the Ridgewood Water capacities were analyzed in the multi-family impact studies, which covered much of the CBD.
Ms. Sonenfeld said that she would look at changing bulk pickup to Mondays and report back to the Village Council.
Ms. Sonenfeld also addressed the improvements to the security cameras in the Court Room and explained that Sergeant Jay Chuck is putting together a proposal for security cameras throughout Village Hall.
7. VILLAGE MANAGER’S REPORT
Ms. Sonenfeld reported that enforcement of the prohibition of A-frame signs in the CBD will be suspended until December 31, 2016. She thanked Christopher Rutishauser, Village Engineer, and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney, for preparing the resolution to allow this suspension of enforcement. She briefly read the criteria for the A-frame signs which include: height restrictions, amount of passage for pedestrians, and insurance requirements.
Mayor Aronsohn stated that this is a great approach and great for the CBD. Ms. Sonenfeld said that the status of the A-frame sign non-enforcement will be brought to the Village Council to discuss, beginning in October. Councilwoman Knudsen asked if the resolution addresses the colors of the A-frame signs, because she would not want to see neon colors. She explained that from the Historic Preservation Commission’s standpoint would be that the A-frame signs should be a neutral color. Councilman Pucciarelli indicated that he knows that the businesses have good taste so he does not believe that the color of the signs has to be taken into account. He said that the resolution can be amended to include colors on the signs if necessary. Councilwoman Hauck said that this will be a seven-month trial period, so she thought that the businesses should have A-frame signs of their choosing. There are some restraints built into the resolution, but not too many. Councilman Sedon agreed and stated that it is a trial period so the Village will be able to determine if the signs have objectionable colors or if there are other issues that need to be addressed. Ms. Sonenfeld said that the Village has a Code Enforcement Officer, and if she finds something out of the ordinary with these A-frame signs during this trial period, she will let Ms. Sonenfeld know. Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she is concerned, because a business may make an investment into an A-frame sign and it may be the wrong color.
Ms. Sonenfeld next reported on paving and the fact that the Veterans Field walking track and the Graydon Pool parking lot were paved. She said that there is currently a draft list of streets that will be paved this season, which has not yet been finalized. Morningside Road will be paved and funded through a NJDOT grant. The paving contract will be awarded at the June 8, 2016 Public Meeting.
Ms. Sonenfeld reported that a customer satisfaction survey was done, through Survey Monkey, for Graydon Pool and there were 652 responses. On the survey, customers were asked if they could be called about their responses, and 200 of those surveyed agreed that they could be called. Ms. Sonenfeld invited Councilmembers to make some of those phone calls if they wished to do so.
Ms. Sonenfeld stated that Meet the Manager will be held on May 14th from 9:00 a.m. to Noon; and Meet the Mayor will be held on May 21st from 9:00 a.m. to Noon and they will be held in the Village Hall Court Room.
Upcoming Events – Ms. Sonenfeld reported on the following: Ridgewood Sales Days will be held from May 12-14; Touch A Truck will be held on May 12th from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Van Neste Square; pre-season sales of Graydon Pool badges will take place at the badge office on May 14th and May 21st from 10:00 a.m. to Noon; Project Pride Day will be held on May 14th at 9:00 a.m. at Van Neste Square for the annual planting of flowers in the CBD; and there will be a household hazardous waste disposal collection on May 14th from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Bergen County Campgaw Reservation in Mahwah.
8. VILLAGE COUNCIL REPORTS
Fourth of July Committee - Councilwoman Knudsen said that the Fourth of July Committee is looking for volunteers for that day.
Historic Preservation Commission – Councilwoman Knudsen reported that the Historic Preservation Commission will meet tomorrow night.
Councilman Pucciarelli reported that he has no reports this evening.
Rabies Clinic – Councilwoman Hauck reported on the rabies clinic which took place recently. She said this is a valuable service that is offered free to Ridgewood residents, in addition to free micro-chipping. She stated that over 100 inoculations were done, and she thanked Dawn Cetrulo, the Supervisor of the Health Department, and members of her staff for helping out at this annual event.
Citizens Safety Advisory Committee - Councilman Sedon said that the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee meets on May 19th.
Ridgewood Environmental Advisory Committee and Shade Tree Commission – Councilman Sedon reported that the Ridgewood Environmental Advisory Committee and the Shade Tree Commission met yesterday and they spoke with a Forester, who will be hired as a consultant to assist the Village.
Mayor Aronsohn said that he would also like to thank Jeff Ball, the founder of the Responsible Pet Owner Committee, who assisted at the rabies clinic. Mayor Aronsohn also reported on the Bergen County Access for All exposition which will take place.
9. 2016 BUDGET HEARING
a. Overview of 2016 Budget
Ms. Sonenfeld reported that last month, the Village Council introduced a $47.8 million budget, with a 1.6% tax increase, which is only the second tax increase in the last four years. She said that this budget has the right balance, and it will maintain the same services for the residents. It also positions the Village strategically for the future. The total appropriations for the budget are a $1.4 million increase, which is $59.30 tax increase for municipal taxes, for the average assessed home in the Village. Ms. Sonenfeld explained that the library donation is flat to last year. She indicated that this budget invests in services and in people. For example, in the Police Department, there will be a School Resource Officer in 2017 and the Building Department continues to be revitalized. There will be staff development, through training, the Department of Public Works will be restructured, and a Qualified Purchasing Agent has been designated. There are increases in the 2016 budget in the areas of health insurance and pension costs. There has also been a decline in revenue, most notably in the Building Department and at Graydon Pool. Ms. Sonenfeld said that out of a dollar bill, the Village’s portion of the tax dollar is 24.1%.
b. Village Council’s Comments
Councilman Pucciarelli said that there was some reduction on the expense side, because there were large labor union settlements that had to be paid. The Village has to deal with revenue reduction and increasing expenses. There will be additional hiring in some departments and restructuring of other departments. He noted that there will be not as much debt service to pay. This budget also looked at the capital needs not just for the current Village Council but also for the future and for the next Village Council. Councilman Pucciarelli concluded by stating that the two years of a zero percent tax increase was to get discipline and he believes in fiscal discipline. Although this budget has a small tax increase, he is very proud of it.
Councilwoman Knudsen said that she would like to echo Councilman Pucciarelli’s comments, and she thanked all who worked on this budget. She noted that the School Resource Officer will be a welcome addition. She also pointed out that this is a minimal tax increase.
Councilwoman Hauck stated that she agrees with her colleagues, she works with departments, and she wants to see that every department is even in the amount of reduction or increase they receive. She would like to give credit to the entire Village Council and Ms. Sonenfeld for not taking too much money from one department over another.
Mayor Aronsohn indicated that this is a thoughtful budget and a responsible budget. It provides for what is needed today as well as what is needed tomorrow. He noted that technology is key, and the investment in people is critical. Mayor Aronsohn said that he is very happy that the School Resource Officer will be in the schools in 2017.
Councilman Pucciarelli explained that there was nothing automatic about this budget, and it was looked at line by line. He further explained that the Village Council got to the final budget step by step.
c. Public Hearing on 2016 Budget
Mayor Aronsohn asked the Village Clerk to read the title of the 2016 budget.
Ms. Mailander read the 2016 budget by title, as follows:
2016 MUNICIPAL BUDGET OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, COUNTY
OF BERGEN, FOR THE FISCAL YEAR 2016
Mayor Aronsohn explained that the Public Hearing on the 2016 budget was now open.
Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, said that he met with Mr. Rooney concerning the water billing. He explained that if a water bill is paid electronically, then a surcharge is added. Mr. Loving wondered why there was a surcharge, since it is an electronic transfer of funds. Mr. Rooney told Mr. Loving that there is a fix to the issue, but the budget had to be adopted. Mr. Rooney stated that he indicated to Mr. Loving that the surcharge can be overcome once the budget has been approved.
There were no further comments from the public, and Mayor Aronsohn moved, seconded by Councilman Pucciarelli that the Public Hearing on the 2016 budget be closed.
d. Public Hearing – Ordinance 3530 – Establish a CAP Bank
Mayor Aronsohn moved the Clerk read Ordinance 3530 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Clerk read Ordinance 3530 by title:
CALENDAR YEAR 2016 ORDINANCE TO EXCEED THE MUNICIPAL BUDGET
APPROPRIATION LIMITS AND TO ESTABLISH A CAP BANK (N.J.S.A. 40A:4-45-14)
Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3530 be closed. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Sedon moved that ordinance 3530 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
e. RESOLUTIONS
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS RELATING TO THE 2016 BUDGET, NUMBERED 16-114 THROUGH 16-115, WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:
10. ORDINANCES
a. Introduction - #3534 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Brookside Avenue Parking Restrictions
Mayor Aronsohn moved the first reading of Ordinance 3534. Councilwoman Hauck seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3534 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, SCHEDULE XIX “TIME LIMIT PARKING”
Councilman Pucciarelli moved that Ordinance 3534 be adopted on first reading and that June 8, 2016, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
b. Introduction - #3535 – Bond Ordinance – General Capital Ordinance ($4,519,975)
Mayor Aronsohn moved the first reading of Ordinance 3535. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3535 by title:
BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR VARIOUS CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS IN THE
VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY APPROPRIATING
$4,519,975 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $4,293,000 BONDS
OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE PART OF THE COST THEREOF
Councilwoman Hauck moved that Ordinance 3535 be adopted on first reading and that June 8, 2016, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
c. Introduction - #3536 – Bond Ordinance – Water Utility Capital ($4,655,000)
Mayor Aronsohn moved the first reading of Ordinance 3536. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3536 by title:
BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR VARIOUS WATER UTILITY IMPROVEMENTS
IN AND BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW
JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $4,655,000 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE
OF $4,655,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE PART OF THE
COST THEREOF
Councilman Sedon moved that Ordinance 3536 be adopted on first reading and that June 8, 2016, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Prior to the votes on Ordinance 3537 and Ordinance 3538, Councilwoman Knudsen said that she will be recusing herself from the votes on these two ordinances due to the fact that her sons are on the Civil Service Police Officer certification list.
d. Introduction - #3537 – Police Department Salary Ordinance
Mayor Aronsohn moved the first reading of Ordinance 3537. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
RECUSE: Councilwoman Knudsen
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3537 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO FIX SALARIES, WAGES AND OTHER COMPENSATION OF AND FOR
POLICE OFFICERS AND POLICE SUPERIOR OFFICERS OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD,
COUNTY OF BERGEN AND STATE OF NEW JERSEY
Councilwoman Hauck moved that Ordinance 3537 be adopted on first reading and that June 8, 2016, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
RECUSE: Councilwoman Knudsen
e. Introduction - #3538 – Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Police Officer Fees on Outside Jobs
Mayor Aronsohn moved the first reading of Ordinance 3538. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
RECUSE: Councilwoman Knudsen
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3538 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND SECTON 145-4 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF
RIDGEWOOD ENTITLED “DEPARTMENTAL FEES” AS IT PERTAIN TO THE
DEPARTMENTS OF FIRE AND POLICE
Councilwoman Hauck moved that Ordinance 3538 be adopted on first reading and that June 8, 2016, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
RECUSE: Councilwoman Knudsen
f. Introduction - #3539 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Pomander Walk Parking Restrictions and U-Turn Prohibition
Mayor Aronsohn moved the first reading of Ordinance 3539. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3539 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD,
VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-55, SCHEDULE V “U TURN PROHIBITIONS” AND
SECTION 265-67, SCHEDULE XVII “PARKING PROHIBITED CERTAIN HOURS” AND SECTION
265-69, SCHEDULE XIX “TIME LIMIT PARKING”
Councilman Sedon moved that Ordinance 3539 be adopted on first reading and that June 8, 2016, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
g. Public Hearing - #3528 – Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Significant Sewer Discharge Fees
Mayor Aronsohn moved the Clerk read Ordinance 3528 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Hauck seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Clerk read Ordinance 3528 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 Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3528 be closed. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Councilman Sedon
ABSTAIN: None
Councilwoman Knudsen moved that ordinance 3528 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
h. Public Hearing - #3529 – Establish Position of Qualified Purchasing Agent
Mayor Aronsohn moved the Clerk read Ordinance 3529 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Hauck seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Clerk read Ordinance 3529 by title:
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, COUNTY
OF BERGEN, STATE OF NEW JERSEY, TO ESTABLISH THE POSITION OF QUALIFIED
PURCHASING AGENT
Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3529 be closed. Councilwoman Hauck seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilwoman Knudsen moved that ordinance 3529 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Hauck seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
i. Public Hearing - #3531 – Bond Ordinance – Cleaning of Anaerobic Digesters at Water Pollution Control Facility ($495,000)
Mayor Aronsohn moved the Clerk read Ordinance 3531 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Clerk read Ordinance 3531 by title:
BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE CLEANING OF THE ANAEROBIC DIGESTERS
AT THE WATER POLLUTION CONTROL FACILITY IN AND BY THE VILLAGE OF
RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $495,000
THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $470,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE
VILLAGE TO FINANCE PART OF THE COST THEREOF
Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3531 be closed. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Sedon, Pucciarelli and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Pucciarelli moved that ordinance 3531 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
j. Public Hearing - #3532 – Establish Guidelines for Audio/Video Recording of Public Meetings
Mayor Aronsohn moved the Clerk read Ordinance 3532 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Clerk read Ordinance 3532 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 3 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD,
AT SECTION 3-20 ENTITLED, “DECORUM”, TO REGULATE THE MAKING OF VIDEO AND/OR
AUDIO TAPE RECORDINGS AT PUBLIC MEETINGS
Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was open. Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, said that Section G of the ordinance and wondered why a still camera would not have to be announced, because he thinks it is the same as a video camera. Also in Section G., Mr. Loving stated that if he posts the audio or video recording on his website and he posts a disclaimer that it is not the official record of the Village of Ridgewood, then others can still use the audio or video recording and not post the disclaimer. Mr. Loving said that a private website is not defined in the ordinance, and he noted that all websites are public. Mr. Loving understands that the disclaimer should say that if it is on any website other than the Village website, then the disclaimer should be there. However, this is not easy to enforce and he also said that the content can be changed when it is taken from one website and put onto another website.
Councilman Pucciarelli stated that in regard to still camera shots vs. video/audio recording, he believes that the recordings are more important to regulate. Councilman Pucciarelli stated that he is not concerned with enforcement because he believes that most people will obey an ordinance.
Mr. Rogers indicated that he also does not see a problem with enforcement because most people will follow the ordinance. Mr. Rogers said that the ordinance could be amended to read in Section G, “If the recording by a private individual is to be utilized on a website other than the Village of Ridgewood website, a disclaimer must appear at the beginning of the broadcast that reads: ‘This video/audio tape recording of the (______) public meeting is not the official record of the Village of Ridgewood.’ ” The Village Council agreed with this amendment to the ordinance.
Councilwoman Knudsen said that she does not think that the Village should regulate a video of an event that is put onto Facebook.
Councilwoman Hauck stated that she would like to tell the public to respect those in a meeting if the meeting is being audio or video recorded, because this will encourage transparency.
There were no further comments from the public and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3532 be closed. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Pucciarelli moved that ordinance 3532 be amended in Section G, as stated by Mr. Rogers. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: Councilwoman Knudsen
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Pucciarelli moved that ordinance 3532, as amended, be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: Councilwoman Knudsen
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
k. Public Hearing - #3533 – Establish Ridgewood Community Action Network
Mayor Aronsohn moved the Clerk read Ordinance 3533 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Hauck seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Clerk read Ordinance 3533 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO CREATE THE RIDGEWOOD COMMUNITY ACTION NETWORK –
A VILLAGE ORGANIZATION TO ADDRESS DISABILITY/SPECIAL NEEDS-RELATED
ISSUES
Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3533 be closed. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Sedon, Pucciarelli and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilwoman Knudsen moved that ordinance 3533 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Hauck seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
11. RESOLUTIONS
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 16-116 THROUGH 16-140 WERE CONSIDERED ON A CONSENT AGENDA, WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION, NUMBERED 16-141, WAS READ IN FULL BY THE VILLAGE CLERK AS FOLLOWS:
12. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Mayor Aronsohn announced that there would now be comments from the public. Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, said that most of the election signs are gone. He emphasized that there must be an ordinance in place pertaining to the regulations for election signs, prior to the November Presidential election. He encouraged the new Village Council to get this ordinance adopted quickly.
Councilman Pucciarelli stated that the places where the election signs were placed were legal. He agreed that there needs to be clarity. He would recommend that no election signs should be allowed in the CBD.
Councilwoman Knudsen agreed that there have to be guidelines, because there cannot be a repeat of this past Municipal Election, where the election signs were all over the CBD. Councilman Sedon agreed, and stated that it seems to him that it will be a simple amendment to prohibit election signs in flower pots and tree wells in the CBD. Mr. Rogers pointed out that it is a constitutional issue, so he will advise the new Village Council as to how far they can go in regulating the election signs.
13. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION
The following resolution, numbered 16-142, to go into Closed Session, was read in full by the Village Clerk, as follows:
14. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilwoman Hauck, seconded by Councilman Pucciarelli, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 9:50 P.M.
_________________________________ Paul S. Aronsohn Mayor
_________________________________ Heather A. Mailander Village Clerk
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