20220105 - Village Council Regular Public Work Session Minutes

A REGULAR PUBLIC WORK SESSION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY, ON JANUARY 5, 2022 AT 7:32 P.M.

 

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

 

Mayor Knudsen called the meeting to order at 7:32 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act.  At roll call the following were present:  Councilmembers Perron and Vagianos, Deputy Mayor Sedon, and Mayor Knudsen.  Also present were Village Manager/Village Clerk, Heather Mailander; Deputy Clerk, Eileen Young; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney.  Absent was Councilmember Reynolds.

 

Mayor Knudsen led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.  There was a moment of silence for all men and women serving our nation and for all first responders in Ridgewood.

 

Mayor Knudsen thanked all of her Council colleagues and Village staff for their monumental efforts and cooperation in holding this in-person meeting this evening.

 

2.         COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

Russell Forenza, 228 Emmet Place, spoke about the new Village requirement effective January 1, 2022, that each household is limited to putting out a maximum of seven items on bulk pickup day.  He disagreed with this because it does not actually reduce the amount of bulk refuse being put into the landfills.  He stated that if he has 28 items, and puts out seven items every other week, they will eventually end up in the landfill anyway.  Additional items may be put out on bulk day but at an extra cost to the household.  He stated that Ridgewood residents pay enough taxes and that bulk refuse, no matter how many items, should not be limited.  Mr. Forenza also indicated that if he was required to give his address at this meeting, then so should the Mayor and Council.

 

There was a brief discussion regarding the wearing of masks and social distancing at the meeting.  Mayor Knudsen stated that a maximum of 16 residents would be allowed in the room, with overflow to be seated in the Annie Zusy Youth Center, where the meeting is being streamed.  Village staff would remain in the hallway. 

 

Rurik Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, indicating that he sent an email to the Village Council and others on December 9, 2021, addressing the fact that Mayor Knudsen and Deputy Mayor Sedon called Siobhan Crann Winograd a “liar.”  He recalled an interview with Village Manager Mailander in which she contradicted Councilman Sedon’s assertions and confirmed that only the berm has been submitted for approval regarding the Schedler property.  Plans for the other two-thirds of the property had not yet been approved.  His email also contained information obtained through OPRA in which Mayor Knudsen wrote to Ms. Mailander on October 21, 2020 requesting that a patio and pergola be added to the plans; the pergola was added and this was not a nefarious plot by Village employees to embarrass her and Deputy Mayor Sedon.  Mr. Halaby asked that his email be put on the record.  He disapproved of the way Ms. Crann Winograd was treated.  He felt that Mayor Knudsen and Deputy Mayor Sedon should be censured for their behavior.  He inquired as to why Mayor Knudsen had not been censured at the Village Council meeting of July 14, 2021 when she appeared in a packed meeting without being vaccinated.  He asked that the Council act responsibly and establish hybrid meetings.  He also felt that Mayor Knudsen should be censured for criticizing the head of a major Village department on a few occasions.

 

Councilman Vagianos indicated that he was exceptionally careful about COVID and requested that residents who have already spoken during public comments retreat to the Annie Zusy room to view the balance of the meeting.

 

Brian Conn, 67 North Hillside Place, expressed his concern about the quality of the water in Ridgewood.  He stated that ingesting the water over time can cause a myriad of health issues from birth defects to organ failure, even reducing the effectiveness of the COVID vaccines.  He asked what Ridgewood Water’s timeline is for rectifying this situation.  He asked whether the water would be safe to drink after the 12-Step rectification program had been completed.  In addition, Mr. Conn asked for more transparency within the water department (number of employees, quality of engineering staff, etc.) since he felt that their website is not very informative.

 

Anne Burton Walsh, 112 South Irving, thanked the Council and Shade Tree Commission for planting trees on East Ridgewood Avenue between Maple and Cottage Place.  She stated that she is looking forward to Phase 2 of this project.

 

Siohban Crann Winograd, 274 Ivy Place, spoke about the Broad Street diversion and Schedler property, which she stated were tied financially.  In the early 1980s, there was a small park/playground on South Broad Street, which was closed by the Village in the mid-1980s and replaced with housing units.  She stated that in 2015, the State of New Jersey performed a park inventory, determined that this closure was a serious violation (diversion), and significant penalties were assessed against the Village.  The initial penalty was a requirement to replace the land at a ratio of 6:1 (for every acre of land inappropriately taken away, six additional acres would need to be added back in as green space) and replace the playground within Ridgewood’s borders.  Green Acres funding in the sum of $750,000 was frozen until this was accomplished.  This issue arose again in 2019 as Broad Street and Woodside Park became the adjacent sites of some large-scale developments.  At that time, Green Acres requirements had been reduced from 6:1 to 2:1 and the land did not have to be one contiguous parcel.  As of today, that replacement land totaling slightly less than one acre appears to be in flux thanks to former Mayor Hache’s efforts; however, the playground, which is currently budgeted at $102,000, is still an open issue.  This past fall, the Village proposed to build a new playground at Kings Pond Park; however, Ms. Crann Winograd stated that there was no request from the public to build such a playground at that location and the presence of water and water fowl is problematic in that area.  On the contrary, a play structure has been requested at the Schedler property, which has been owned by the Village for 13 years.  The plans for Schedler originally approved by the Village included a playground; however, those plans have been materially altered and rejected twice. Putting a firm plan in place will satisfy the Broad Street diversion issue, save taxpayers the $102,000 for a playground at Kings Pond, and ensure the installation of a playground in a neighborhood which wants and needs it.  Ms. Crann Winograd requested the Council to partner with the developer to formulate a final, comprehensive plan for Schedler, including the playground.

 

Bob Upton, 172 West Glen Avenue, expressed his appreciation to the Council and Village management for supporting the tree inventory.  He indicated that he was looking forward to hearing the Shade Tree presentation this evening.  He also expressed appreciation to the Village and the Recycling Department in supporting the efforts of Green Ridgewood to include styrofoam in its recycling program.  He was looking forward to the expanded polystyrene densifier trial period.  Mr. Upton also thanked the Green Ridgewood Committee for their support of EAGER (Encouraging Alternative Green Energy for Ridgewood).

 

Andy Varady, 111 Sherwood Road, noted that the pickleball players in Ridgewood have taken several measures to reduce the sound levels; e.g., noise reduction rackets and balls. He indicated that pickleball players really do not want to use such equipment because it “dulls” the game to some extent but are willing to make such accommodations to please the neighbors surrounding the courts.  Sound insulation has also been installed around the fences, also supported by pickleball players.  Mr. Varady commented that a sound test conducted near the courts showed that pickleball playing created an acceptable noise level within a suburban community.  However, he indicated that some neighbors compared the pickleball noise to a cannon being fired, which he felt was disingenuous and an invalid comparison.  Some complained that homes in the area were being sold because of the pickleball noise, which he also felt was disingenuous.  Mr. Varady mentioned that he lives adjacent to a school yard and the noise from the fields during soccer games, lacrosse games or carnivals has increased over the years; however, he has accepted this noise level since he made a conscious decision to purchase a house adjacent to a schoolyard.  He feels that the neighbors surrounding the pickleball/tennis courts should also accept the level of noise coming from the courts since they consciously chose to purchase property in that area.

 

No one else came forward for public comments and Mayor Knudsen closed the public portion of the meeting.

 

Mayor Knudsen spoke about some significant abuses that were taking place regarding bulk pickup, which put staff in harm’s way, i.e., non-residents were leaving their items in Ridgewood for pickup.  Thus, the new Ridgewood ordinance limiting households to seven items was implemented.  Regarding the diversion and Schedler matters, she mentioned that there was conflation of a lot of different issues.  She stated that the diversion issue has to do with the park – the playground is not connected to Schedler because of time constraints placed on the Village by Green Acres.  The existing Council inherited this diversion issue.  Numerous conferences and telephone conversations have been held with Green Acres representatives to resolve this issue in a way that would reduce the impact to Ridgewood taxpayers.  Mayor Knudsen said that they have worked tirelessly and in good faith.  She believes that wrong assumptions are being made based on either lack of information or misinformation regarding the pergola and patio being approved by her.  The plan is only a conceptual plan. 

 

Mayor Knudsen also indicated that Ridgewood Water has been working for years to address the quality of the water and that it was not a failure of the current administration, which inherited these issues.  She urged everyone who is concerned to read the information contained on the Ridgewood Water website regarding PFOS resources.  There are videos of forums on the website.

 

4.         MANAGER’S REPORT

 

Ms. Mailander announced that Boards and Committees are still accepting applications through January 7, 2022.  Interviews will take place on January 19, 2022.  Based on the number of applications received, additional days may be needed to conduct interviews.  The Council is seeking residents who are interested in volunteering to serve on the Parks and Recreation and Conservation Board, Citizens Safety Advisory Committee, Shade Tree Commission, Green Ridgewood, Ridgewood Green Team, and Historic Preservation Commission.  Ms. Mailander asked all residents to consider reusing and recycling items rather than leaving them out for bulk pickup.

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that Police Chief Luthcke has announced that auto theft is increasing.  In 2021, 26 cars were stolen in Ridgewood, all of which were unlocked and the keys left inside.  Ms. Mailander urged all residents to always lock their cars and remove the keys, even if they are in a garage or driveway.  Spare keys should never be left in or around one’s vehicle.  Cars should never be left running while unattended or unlocked and should be parked in well-lit areas.  Valuables and personal property should never be left in cars.  Garage door openers and transmitters should be secured.  Ms. Mailander indicated that “if you see something, say something.”

 

Chamber of Commerce Restaurant Week will take place January 16-27, 2022.  Ms. Mailander urged residents to dine in Ridgewood at participating restaurants Sunday through Thursday to show support for local businesses.  Further details can be found on the Chamber of Commerce website, RidgewoodChamber.com.  In commemoration of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, the following activities will be held:  January 14, 2022, virtual screening and discussion about John Lewis, with the featured speaker being Nate Briggs, Vice President of the Bergen NAACP; January 15, 2022, service project at Ridge Crest Senior Housing – donation drop-off for their pantry; January 16, 2022, Ridgewood Coffee House at 4:00 PM with art and music; and January 17, 2022, hybrid webinar with local religious leaders from Glen Rock and Ridgewood.

 

Ms. Mailander announced that Christmas tree pickup will take place on January 11, 18 and 25 on the east side and January 6, 13, 20 and 27 on the west side.  All ornaments and lights should be removed from the trees and they should not be placed in plastic bags.  Trees may also be dropped off at the Graydon Pool parking lot in the cordoned-off area through January 28, 2022.

 

The 2022 Village calendar will be delivered to homes sometime during the week of January 10, 2022; delays were encountered due to staff shortages and illness due to COVID.  She reminded everyone that the last page of the 2021 calendar contains the month of January 2022. In addition, residents are urged to sign up for e-notices on the Village website to stay informed about events and notifications.  Upcoming meetings will be broadcast live on the Village website and Channel 34 on FIOS.  The next public meetings will be held at 8:00 PM on January 12 and February 9, 2022, and the next work sessions will take place at 7:30 PM on January 26 and February 2, 2022.

 

5.         COUNCIL REPORTS

 

Councilman Vagianos reported that the Fields Committee met this week.  Keith Cook, the AD at Ridgewood High School, announced that spectators at all sporting events for the immediate future will be limited to four family members due to COVID.  Nancy Bigos, Director of Parks and Recreation, indicated that there have been some problems regarding drop-off and pick-up of players at some fields, particularly at Vets Field.  Councilman Vagianos indicated that parents are discharging players on Maple Avenue rather than in the Vets parking lot, creating a dangerous situation when they have to cross this busy street.  He urged all parents to discharge their children in the parking lot itself.  Councilman Vagianos stated that there are not enough fields in Ridgewood to accommodate all the players engaged in sports.  One of the Fields Committee members is developing an app that will allow Ridgewood to more fully utilize the fields at any given moment.  The app can also be used for field maintenance in the future.  Councilman Vagianos commended Ed Seavers who has been organizing the fields for decades the old-fashioned way using paper and pencil.  Councilman Vagianos echoed Mayor Knudsen’s remarks about developing COVID-safe protocols for Council meetings, particularly advocating for Zoom meetings.  He remarked that the Omicron variant is exceedingly contagious, citing a record-breaking 240,000 infections in one day last week.  Yesterday there were more than one million infections.  He thanked Councilwoman Perron, Mayor Knudsen and Deputy Mayor Sedon for their efforts in developing a COVID-safe protocol for all.  He again requested that any person who has spoken already to please retire to the Annie Zusy room to view the streamed meeting and re-enter the chambers if they had any further comments.  He thanked Ms. Mailander for developing a mask mandate for all Village buildings, effective a few days ago, with a 95-100% compliance rate.

 

Councilman Vagianos read a letter into the record from Anne Loving:  “I am so dismayed that this Council still does not permit citizens to call in their comments during work sessions and public meetings since at this time public comments are only permitted for those who attend in person, which I am not comfortable doing.  I am now in a position of being unable to participate as I have done for many years.  There are two reasons that make the hybrid model a sensible option in my opinion.  First, during this global pandemic, citizens who are elderly, ill, immunocompromised, have young unvaccinated children in their lives, or are in any way particularly vulnerable to getting COVID-19, could still be active participants from the safety of their homes.  Second, even after the pandemic has subsided, the call-in option would make sense as a permanent procedure.  Ridgewood has citizens who cannot drive at night or drive at all.  [There are] those who have young children and cannot get or cannot afford a babysitter, those who might not be feeling well on a Wednesday evening, those with physical limitations that make getting to the courtroom challenging, as well as many others who have reasons that make attending a meeting difficult.  We learned in the early days of the pandemic when Council meetings were on Zoom that there were many citizens who are watching and have valuable ideas and opinions to offer via telephone.  The Board of Education has continued to permit and, indeed, encourage citizens to comment remotely.  Their system works very smoothly and is user friendly.  Although I have spoken with each of you about this matter, I have yet to hear an objection that makes sense to me.  In the interest of encouraging the participation of interested taxpayers, I implore you to allow call-in comments effective immediately and permanently.  Thank you for all that you do on behalf of Ridgewood.  Anne Loving”

 

Councilman Vagianos indicated that this topic will be on the Public Work Session agenda of January 26, 2022.

 

Councilwoman Perron apologized that the Tree Protection Ordinance is not yet ready for discussion but that it will be on the January 26, 2022 meeting agenda.  She mentioned that in years past, she has found the Martin Luther King, Jr. commemorative events to be edifying and a wonderful community effort.  She urged everyone to attend those events, even though it is all virtual.  Green Ridgewood meets via Zoom on January 6, 2022.  They have been working on Earth Day, and the Sustainability Subcommittee has been working on native gardens, brainstorming ideas on how to more sustainably maintain one’s yard.  They met with one of the founders of Sustainable Ridgewood and developed a resolution that will reach more residents and foster discussion about environmental issues.  She thanked the Rotary Club for their efforts in making New Year’s Eve in Ridgewood very beautiful, with luminaries distributed as part of their charitable fundraising drive.  The Central Business District Advisory Committee (CBDAC) will next meet via Zoom at 8:30 A.M. on January 13, 2022, which is open to the public.  She mentioned that the Chamber of Commerce will hold Restaurant Week this month and its Board of Directors will next meet on January 12, 2022.  The Recycling Center has begun collecting Expanded Polystyrene Styrofoam (EPS), but no food containers or peanuts.  A densifier will soon be obtained at the center in order to compact the styrofoam into blocks.  The nine-month pilot program regarding the food waste composting project has ended very successfully.  A lot of food was kept out of the landfills.  The approximate 100 households participating in the program no longer have to weigh their food scraps and trash and report every week.  The program will continue and may be expanded if possible.

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon announced that the Green Team will be meeting January 6, 2022 and will soon collaborate in joint meetings with Green Ridgewood.  However, currently, the Green Team needs to focus on the application to recertify Ridgewood’s position as a Silver Certificate Recipient in the Sustainable Jersey program.  He stated that he has been a liaison to the Shade Tree Commission since 2014 and is looking forward to their presentation this evening.  They are striving to plant as many trees as possible to replace those lost due to disease, storm damage, sidewalk replacement, or age.  He mentioned that planting efforts were delayed due to the tremendous work that needed to be done to remove ash trees damaged by the emerald ash borer, with monies redirected from planting to removal of trees due to this situation.  Mr. Sedon indicated that in 2022, efforts will be renewed to replenish those trees which had to be removed and “grow” the Ridgewood canopy, resulting in tree-lined streets and aiding climate change.

 

Mayor Knudsen announced that the Planning Board briefly met on January 4, 2022, with two items being carried:  Tasko Enterprises to January 18, 2022 and the public hearing on the preliminary investigation for Valley Hospital property redevelopment to February 1, 2022.  The stakeholder meeting for the Master Plan was moved to February 15, 2022.  Mayor Knudsen commented on the increasing number of brazen burglaries and car thefts in the area, as well as “air tags” placed on cars which can then be tracked back to the car owner’s home.  A Public Service Announcement will be emailed to all residents signed up for emails and it will also be placed on the Village website and social media concerning this alarming increase.  She asked that residents share this announcement with friends and neighbors.

 

6.         PRESENTATION - SHADE TREE COMMISSION

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon introduced Andrew Lowry, Chair of the Shade Tree Commission; Ian Keller, Vice Chair; and Carolyn Jacoby, Former Vice Chair.  Mr. Lowry indicated that he wanted to relay some information before the Capital budget process got too far underway.  The Shade Tree Commission will be requesting a significant increase in funding due to the many challenges they faced this past year.  He referred to trees as part of the infrastructure, which need to be maintained, repaired and replaced, similar to buildings, roads and bridges. Trees are a valuable part of the environment, controlling stormwater and cleaning the air, and are aesthetically pleasing.  They increase property value and provide shade.  Mr. Lowry displayed a map showing yearly temperatures between 1895 and 2018.  Red areas showed an increase of 2.5 degrees, considered to be a major concern by scientists if it becomes a worldwide phenomenon.  Bergen County has already reached that level; summers will become hotter and winters will become warmer.  One solution to this climate change is to plant more trees.

 

Mr. Lowry stated that the focus of the Shade Tree Department is on trees/tree wells in the Central Business District (CBD) and on public streets.  In 2020, Ridgewood performed an inventory of shade trees (over 9,000) and discovered that there are more than 3,000 open planting spaces.  The goal previously was to plant 350 trees per year.  Mr. Lowry indicated that shade trees are facing increasing challenges:  invasive insects (spotted lantern fly and emerald ash borer), storms, old age, and disease (oak wilt).  Out of 620 ash trees existing in the Village in 2020, 88 were removed and 160 were protected, with 373 to be removed in the next few years, depending on their condition.  Each year, approximately 200 trees are removed for a variety of reasons, totally about 1,500 over the last 10 years.  Mr. Lowry spoke about the streetscape in the CBD and how trees are not only aesthetically pleasing but also address the “heat island effect.”  More trees can lower the temperatures on the streets by as much as 30 degrees.  Mr. Lowry gave some facts on how trees lowered temperatures in urban areas and showed comparative pictures of the foliage on residential streets as opposed to the CBD.

 

Mr. Lowry explained that in 2022, they hope to embark on a tree refurbishment project in the CBD area.  Factors which will be considered will be hardiness, size, variety, availability, and tree well size, and will include decision making by all stakeholders.  This will be accomplished in three phases:  removal of trees requiring a crane and planting new trees (approximately 300 trees), depending upon available funding; continue to take down ash trees and replace with new trees; and planting of at least 75 trees in the CBD.  He explained that hopefully they will be able to acquire a watering trailer to aid in the survival of the newly planted trees.  The requested budget amounts to $650,000.

 

Ian Keller commented upon the need for tree-lined streets in the CBD to attract shoppers, which in turn will aid the struggling businesses in the Village.  The investment is needed to maintain Ridgewood’s appeal and boost its economy.

 

Carolyn Jacoby remarked that robust funding for the Shade Tree Commission is very much needed at the present time.

 

 

Councilman Vagianos echoed the fact that trees are part of the infrastructure.  He thanked everyone for their presentation.  Councilwoman Perron inquired as to whether or not there were any grants which could be applied for to help with the needs of the Shade Tree Commission.  Ms. Jacoby replied that most grants are being awarded to underserved communities; however, they will apply for any appropriate grants available.  Deputy Mayor Sedon thanked the past and current members of the Shade Tree Commission/Department for their years of dedication to this cause. Mayor Knudsen mentioned that Open Space funding can be used for some of these purposes and possibly initiating an “open space tax” on a ballot.  She asked that this issue be placed on the Village website and thanked everyone for their hard work.

 

7.         DISCUSSION ITEMS

 

A.        RIDGEWOOD WATER

 

                        1.  Award Bid Various Water Main Replacements

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this was an award bid for various water main replacements, including Godwin Avenue in Ridgewood, Goffle Road in Midland Park, and Lake Road in Wyckoff.  Twenty-one bid packets were picked up and nine bids were received.  Suburban Consulting Engineers did the bid review and recommended the lowest bidder, OnQue Technologies, Inc., of Oradell, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $1,649,955.00.  Funding is in the Ridgewood Water Capital budget.  These water main replacements are required within the distribution system due to size, age, and condition of the mains. 

 

Councilwoman Perron asked for an explanation as to why this was set up as a bid and two alternate bids.  Richard Calbi, Director of Ridgewood Water, explained that the bid base is for required work; the alternates are additional items that are added to the base.  The items have to be awarded in the order they are listed.  There were additional items they wanted to get pricing for and that is the reason for the two alternate bids.  OnQue has been the successful bidder on two other projects for Ridgewood Water in the last two years.  Councilwoman Perron indicated that the next bidder was $50,000.00 more and the third lowest bidder was $60,000.00 more than the OnQue bid.  The Village is required to go with the lowest responsible bidder unless it has had a previous bad experience with the company.  The installation of these water main replacements will most likely begin in March and will take approximately six months to complete due to the busy traffic on these streets.

 

                        2.  Award State Contract Purchase – New Water Facility Office Furniture

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this was a State contract purchase for the new water facility office furniture.  They include Affordable Interior Solutions (c/o Dancker Furniture) of Leominster, MA, not to exceed $87,169.84; Exemplis Inc. in an amount not to exceed $35,894.78; and Steelcase, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $56,768.99.  These are all New Jersey State contracts.  The total amount is not to exceed $179,833.61.  This funding is in the Water Utility Capital budget.  Ms. Mailander indicated that 28 of the 43 utility employees will work out of the new space.  Field operations staff for distribution and treatment will reside at the Glen Avenue facility in Ridgewood.  Wortendyke in Midland Park will be converted to storage space, and surplus portions of the property will be evaluated for sale. 

 

A question was raised as to whether or not any of their existing furniture could be reused in the new location.  Mr. Calbi replied that there is furniture in two or three offices that may be able to be reused; however, this furniture does not match the color scheme developed for the new offices.  The existing furniture will be repurposed and used elsewhere.  Another question was raised as to what the current water department offices will be utilized for.  Ms. Mailander replied that no decision has yet been made in that regard; however, the existing furniture may be used for other purposes.

 

                        3.  Change Order – EV Charging Space for New Water Facility

 

Ms. Mailander said that the next item is a change order for one EV (electric vehicle) charging space at the new Water Department facility.  A quote was obtained by Adamo Brothers Construction (company performing the work at the new water facility) in the amount of $24,413.18.  This would only include the conduit and not the wiring or charging equipment.  A rapid charger could possibly charge more than one car in this one EV charging space.  Councilwoman Perron inquired as to whether or not any grant money or PSE&G rebate would be available for this EV charging space, as she had heard about during her attendance at last year’s New Jersey League of Municipalities.  Mr. Calbi replied that swift action would have to take place if any grants were to be applied for since the paving and piping were about to be completed.  Councilman Vagianos asked what the charge would be to install two spaces rather than one, or even a bank of charging stations, since it might be less expensive if more than one were installed at the same time.  Mr. Calbi said that he would inquire about that but that this particular EV charging space was for use by the Water Department only.  He stated that the majority of the vehicles in his department were maintenance vehicles (non-electric) and very few would be electric vehicles.  Mayor Knudsen asked Mr. Calbi to find out the cost for two charging stations.  Mr. Calbi mentioned that he would but that extra funding would have to be made available for this.  The location of the EV charging station was also discussed, and Mr. Calbi advised that the former Elks location is not in a flood plain and the station would be located in the rear of the building near the back entrance.

 

                        4.  Water Administrative Maintenance Fees

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this is an annual resolution that accepts an operating and administrative maintenance fee from Ridgewood Water, calculated by multiplying the assessed value of all land owned by Ridgewood Water in Ridgewood by the current year’s property tax rate from January 1 to December 31, 2022.

 

                        5.  Water Utility Interest Rates for Delinquent Accounts

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this is an annual resolution which sets the interest rates for delinquent payments to Ridgewood Water.  They are statutory amounts and do not vary from year to year.  There are also grace periods set for payments.

 

            B.        PARKING

 

                        1.  Park and Ride Facility Route 17

 

Ms. Mailander spoke about the proposed parking ordinance for the Park and Ride facility at Route 17.  Since Airbrook and Shortline have left the Park and Ride facility, Ms. Mailander indicated that the ordinance should be amended to allow the Village to charge for all available parking spaces in this lot.  She indicated that some motorists have been parking in the Airbrook/Shortline spaces without paying for parking.  A discussion ensued about yearly rates for parking in “Ridgewood” spaces ($1,000.00 for the past three years, prorated monthly) as opposed to the rates for the “Shortline/Airbrook” spaces ($750.00).  Payment will be made at a kiosk or via a parking permit. It was recommended that after the words “multi-space meter” in the proposed ordinance that the word “kiosk” be added.  This lot is currently underused at the current time due to COVID and the fact that many people are working from home.  This ordinance will allow the Village to charge for parking spaces throughout the entire lot.  It was recommended that clear signage be installed at the lot to avoid any confusion by motorists.

 

                        2.  Amendment to Ridgewood Resident One Day Parking Passes

 

Councilman Vagianos recused himself from this discussion since the amendment would benefit restaurants in the CBD.  Ms. Mailander explained that in order to obtain a Resident Daily Parking Pass ($10/day), a resident must first obtain a free annual resident sticker.  The daily parking pass used to allow residents to park in any lot without time limitations.  However, in 2020, the Village Council amended the CBD parking ordinance to set a three-hour time limit for commuters parking in the Prospect, Chestnut, and Walnut Street parking lots.  This allows for more turnover of the parking spaces.  There has been an increase in the demand for the daily parking passes since many residents are commuting less often to work.  This amendment would permit residents with daily parking passes to park in the train station parking lot, the third level of the Hudson Street Garage, the Cottage Place parking lot, and the Route 17 Park and Ride lot, thereby freeing up the spaces at the Prospect, Chestnut, and Walnut Street parking lots for parking three hours or less.  There was a discussion about uploading a map of the designated areas to the parking app (with the shapes of the various lots) to avoid confusion.

            C.        BUDGET

 

1.  Interest Rate for Delinquent Taxes and Non-Payment of Other Municipal  

     Liens

 

This is an annual resolution.  Interest rates and grace periods are set by statute.

 

2.  Interest Rate for Other Significant Sewer Discharger Fees

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this is an annual resolution for non-payment of Significant Discharger Annual Flow Charges which sets the interest rates and grace period per statute.  This is the same rate as non-payment fees for Ridgewood Water bills.

 

3.  Authorize Estimated 2022 Third Quarter Tax Bills

 

This is an annual resolution which authorizes the Ridgewood Tax Collector to mail estimated third quarter 2022 tax bills prior to the tax rate being certified by the County.  It allows the Village to maintain its financial obligations to pay school and county taxes, which has proven beneficial to the Village in the past.

 

4.  Cost of Mailing Tax Sale Notice

 

This is an annual resolution that authorizes the Tax Collector to charge $25.00 per mailing of tax sale notices.  This charge is set by statute.

 

5.  Authorize Electronic Tax Sales

 

This annual resolution allows the Tax Collector to conduct electronic tax sales through a State-approved vendor, which has been done for the preceding two years and which has resulted in increased participation by potential lien buyers and higher sales proceeds.

 

6.  Cancellation of Tax Overpayments and Delinquent Amounts

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this is an annual resolution allowing for the cancellation of delinquent property tax amounts or refunds of property tax overpayments in amounts less than $10.00.

 

 

 

 

 

7.  Award Contract – Annual Maintenance – Software for Finance

     Department

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this is a resolution to authorize renewal of a contract with Edmunds & Associates for its proprietary software for the Finance Department, which is used for purchasing, payroll, accounts payable/receivables, and vouchers.

 

8.  Amendment to Resolution on Release of Letters of Credit – Chestnut

     Village

 

This resolution would amend Resolution 21-354 adopted in November 2021 to release Letters of Credit for Chestnut Village, LLC, since the project has been completed.  The Letters of Credit were originally issued to Two-Forty Associates, LLC.

 

9.  Bond Ordinance – Paving and Playground

 

Ms. Mailander explained that in January of each year, a bond ordinance is introduced which includes paving of certain Village streets.  Bob Rooney, CFO, indicated that $2.0 million was authorized for paving in 2020 and $2.5 million in 2021.  The request for 2022 is $2.5 million.  Included in this ordinance is approximately $111,000 for the installation of a playground at Kings Pond Park to satisfy the Green Acres Diversion plan.  This includes purchase of the playground equipment, installation, and financing expenses for the bond.  A question arose as to why a playground is being installed at Kings Pond Park.  Ms. Mailander replied that a park has to be installed somewhere within Village boundaries within six months of the State House Commission approving the replacement for the diversion plan.  This installation will most likely take place in the summer of 2022.  She explained that due to the current situation at the Schedler property, approvals have been delayed for the three phases of the trifurcation, including the berm.  If approvals are not received in time and the playground is not installed within six months due to these delays, then all the efforts to arrive at a satisfactory diversion plan would have been for naught.  Mayor Knudsen indicated that a playground will eventually be installed at the Schedler property. 

 

A lengthy discussion ensued in which the countless hours of negotiations and discussions with Green Acres to arrive at this current diversion plan were discussed.  Caution was advised with regard to revisiting this matter with Green Acres in order to “not upset the applecart” and undo the numerous efforts by elected officials and costs expended to arrive at this plan.  Once the playground is installed at Kings Pond Park, thus satisfying this diversion issue, the grant monies being held in escrow by Green Acres will be released. 

 

 

Nancy Bigos, Director of Parks and Recreation, explained how the redevelopment of Kings Pond Park is taking place.  The infrastructure is developed initially, followed by plantings and recreational amenities.  In May of 2016, neighbors surrounding Kings Pond Park were skeptical about the redevelopment of that area, citing traffic and parking concerns.  However, at the current time, the residents in that area are extremely happy about this redevelopment, which is approximately two-thirds completed.

 

            D.        POLICY

 

                        1.   Pickleball Noise Reduction

 

Nancy Bigos, Director of Parks and Recreation, indicated that she has done some research regarding efforts to reduce noise at the Glen Avenue pickleball courts.  She has spoken extensively with a technician from Stop Noise, an acoustical surfaces firm located in Minnesota.  This technician initially recommended vinyl acoustical panels, which were subsequently installed.  Since these did not adequately resolve the problem, his second suggestion was the installation of 2” thick absorptive exterior grade acoustical curtains made of quilted fiberglass.  Ms. Bigos demonstrated a sample of the product, which she stated absorbs the noise rather than merely curtailing the noise and reflecting the noise back into the court (as the existing panels seem to do).  Use of both materials would greatly reduce the sound, per the technician. The curtains are manufactured in 48” widths, and it is recommended that a 10’ curtain be installed.  The technician suggested that the old panels be removed from the interior of the courts and placed on the exterior perimeter of the courts, and that the new absorber panels be placed on the interior for added noise reduction.  This information has been shared with Chris Rutishauser, Village Engineer, who responded favorably to the installation of these curtains, which are waterproof and specifically made for outdoor use.  The curtains would come with grommets for installation. 

 

Ms. Bigos indicated that while choice of color, availability, time needed to install, etc., have not yet been discussed, a quote has been obtained of $22,690.30 for 3,400 linear feet of the 2” panels, grommets, and shipping.  Mr. Rooney indicated that he would look into the allocation of funds for this project.  When questioned, Ms. Bigos indicated that Stop Noise was the top manufacturer of sound remediation products; however, she will obtain further quotes from other companies for similar products, obtain more information regarding the lifespan of the product, and research whether or not the technician knows of any companies locally who are proficient at installing such a product.

 

Councilman Vagianos raised the issue of pickleball court hours.  He requested that this issue be placed on the agenda for January 26, 2022.

 

 

 

                        2.   Recycling Foam Cycle Expanded Polystyrene Densifier Trial Period

 

Ms. Mailander explained that the Village has a unique opportunity to use a densifier from Foam Cycle for a six-month trial period at no cost to the Village (except for electricity).  The Village has the option to purchase the unit after the trial period.  Sean Hamlin of Recycling and Sanitation has indicated that there is a lot of styrofoam at the center to be recycled, thus there is a need.  Mr. Calbi is also in support of this densifier.  Mr. Calbi mentioned that an entire container was filled up with styrofoam in just one week following the holiday season.  This increase in styrofoam is partially the result of many people ordering goods online rather than in stores.

 

The densifier compresses the foam into small links, which are then placed on a pallet and sent to a re-use facility, where they are made into items such as molding, decking material for outside decks, and other reusable products.  This densifier, if purchased for $68,500.00, could possibly be shared with other municipalities to recoup some of this cost. The densifier would avoid styrofoam entering landfills, avoid it being loaded onto Village sanitation trucks which have difficulty compressing the foam, and would avoid the payment of tipping fees at the landfill.  Upon inquiry by Councilwoman Perron, Mr. Calbi indicated that he was assured that the densifying process would not emit any harmful pollutants into the air; however, he indicated that he would research this more and inform her of his findings.  It is not a burning process but rather a condensing process that removes the air from the styrofoam.  Everyone was in favor of the trial period.

 

Ms. Mailander asked Mr. Calbi to kindly address the comments made earlier this evening by a resident regarding the quality of the water in Ridgewood and its harmful health effects.  Mr. Calbi replied that he is not an expert on the matter but that any concerned resident should consult with their health professional.  Information is available on the Ridgewood Water website with links to the New Jersey Department of Health.  A series of three public virtual events were held at which a representative from the local Department of Health was featured.  He mentioned that he is also speaking at the League of Women Voters on January 20, 2022 via Zoom and he welcomed any concerned residents to attend that meeting.  In addition, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection informed Mr. Calbi that they are preparing an educational video.  Mr. Calbi indicated that he understood the frustration of the residents but emphasized that his department did not put the dangerous substances into the water.  It is a manmade chemical developed in the 1940s, which does not break down easily, and his department must now find ways to get it out of the water.  Lawsuits have been filed against the companies at fault in this situation.

 

Mayor Knudsen reminded everyone that it is not just Ridgewood Water which is experiencing this situation, but rather it is a worldwide problem.  Mr. Calbi explained that these chemicals can be found in carpeting, food packaging, clothes, dental floss, furniture, cookware, etc.  New Jersey has some of the most stringent standards when it comes to water quality.  Mr. Calbi stated that 12 treatment plants need to be constructed (one is already constructed).  Ridgewood was one of the first municipalities to construct a treatment plant of this type to deal with PFOS.  One plant is currently under construction and the third will be coming before the Planning Board in a couple of months.  Two of the largest ones in Wyckoff and Glen Rock (Prospect location) are coming before their respective planning boards later this year.  Mr. Calbi indicated that the final plant will be online by 2026.  However, once the larger facilities are online, the majority of the water will be free of PFOS. 

 

Mr. Calbi indicated that in the off-peak months, it is the strategy of Ridgewood Water to utilize the wells and sources which have the least amount of PFOS in the water.  Mayor Knudsen mentioned that the Village has worked closely with Congressman Gottheimer’s office and that Ridgewood’s application for federal grant funds ($3.7 million) filed a couple of months ago has been expedited by his office. There was further discussion on the proactive efforts of the Village to address this situation, including detailed notices to the public.  Every public notice has to be approved by the NJDEP.  The next public notice will be sent out in late February/early March.

 

                        3.   Discussion of Encouraging Alternative Green Energy for Ridgewood

                              (EAGER)

 

Councilwoman Perron explained that this is a program previously presented by Green Ridgewood to the Village Council but which is presented again for new Councilmembers.  This program would bundle residents’ collective energy (electricity) demand throughout Ridgewood in order to obtain more favorable (fixed rather than fluctuating) pricing through a third-party supplier (other than PSE&G) which would generate electricity from renewable sources (geothermal, solar, wind, biomass, hydroelectric, landfill gas, municipal solid waste, tidal forces, anaerobic digestion, fuel cells) rather than from fossil fuels.  A consultant paid by the third-party supplier would aid the Village in sending out an RFP at the most optimal time, with 30 days’ advanced notice sent by the consultant to the public (with option to opt-out if desired).  The first step would be to pass an ordinance in favor of this program.  Any proposed contract would be reviewed by the Village Attorney and the Board of Public Utilities.  Councilwoman Perron stressed the advantages of collectively switching to a third-party supplier as opposed to individually.  PSE&G currently utilizes 23.5% renewable energy, scheduled to increase incrementally until 2030 when they reach 50%.

 

Mayor Knudsen commented that the SEA did not renew their contracts in 2021 because the pricing was too high and reverted back to PSE&G because their pricing was better.  She expressed concern about opting people into something without their knowledge and causing them to have to opt out of a program.  Deputy Mayor Sedon remarked that it wouldn’t cost anything to research what prices could be obtained for electricity and the Village would not be obligated in any way to accept a proposal.  He predicted months ago that energy costs would increase, along with inflation. 

 

A discussion ensued regarding the necessity of possibly signing a contract for one year with a third-party supplier and remaining obligated for that period of time, even in the event PSE&G’s rates should happen to decrease below that of the fixed rate offered by the third-party supplier.  Deputy Mayor Sedon indicated that he was in favor of this proposal but cautioned that the Village should not set a precedent on advising Village residents whether they should or shouldn’t opt in or out of any energy proposal.  This ordinance would include only residents and not businesses or the school district at this point in time.  Ms. Mailander indicated that this ordinance would be placed on the agenda for introduction next week.

 

                        4.   Endorse HOME Grant – Children’s Aid and Family Services

5.   Endorse Community Development Block Grant – SHARE

6.   Endorse Community Development Block Grant – SHARE

                        7.   Endorse Community Development Block Grant – Family Promise of

                              Bergen County

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that these four items represent Community Development Block Grants (CDBG). The first concerns a CDBG HOME application in the amount of $180,000.00.  These monies would be used to renovate a home on Prospect Street owned by Children’s Aid and Family Services to create a 5 bedroom, 3-1/2 bathroom, two-story group home for five developmentally disabled residents.  Endorsement by resolution of these block grants by the Village does not obligate the Village in any financial way.  These groups are required, however, to obtain endorsements from the governing body in the community they are located before they can proceed.  The second and third items represent CDBGs for SHARE:  130 Prospect Street ($16,000.00) for new air-conditioning unit, pad, and installation, and $13,300.00 for renovation of the front of the house, including removal and disposal of debris from the roof, removing the existing soffit and gutters and installing new soffit and gutters, and installation of new drip edge metal on the roof.  The last item is a CDBG for Family Promise of Bergen County for $24,000.00 for a project entitled “Steps to Success:  Empowering Families through Workforce Development.”

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that all four of these requests require endorsement by the Village Council in order for these entities to apply for these grants.

 

                        8.   Sewers and Sewage Disposal Fees

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that the Village currently provides sanitary sewer treatment services to approximately 190 dischargers into the Village’s collection system that are outside of the Village’s municipal boundaries.  The fees have not increased since 2016.  The current rate for a single-dwelling unit in an adjacent town is $400.00 per year; the recommendation is to raise this fee to $475.00 per year.  She mentioned that the Village pays the Northwest Bergen County Utilities Authority $495.00 per connection for approximately 54 Village connections that flow into their system.  The Village Engineer also proposes to raise the annual service charge for connections outside the Village’s municipal boundaries from $400.00 to $525.00.  For significant dischargers, it is recommended that the annual service fee be increased from $5,000.00 to $5,750.00.  There was a brief discussion about ESU (Equivalent Dwelling Unit), which takes into account the average yearly water usage per household; if the household exceeds that amount, then the excessive sewer discharge applies.

 

                        9.   Authorize Joining Hunterdon County, ESC Cooperative Purchasing

                              Program

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this ordinance deals with an invitation to join the Hunterdon County Educational Services Commission Cooperative Purchasing organization.  This would provide the Village with an additional option for purchasing goods and services for the Village. There is no fee to join.  However, the Village Council will need to adopt a resolution to execute the draft agreement.  Ms. Mailander indicated that the Village currently belongs to many cooperative purchasing entities, which has proven very beneficial to the Village.

 

8.         REVIEW OF JANUARY 12, 2022 PUBLIC MEETING AGENDA

 

Ms. Mailander stated that the agenda for January 12, 2022 will include a Proclamation for Jamboree Days and swearing-in of a Fire Chief and Police Sergeant.  Resolutions for Ridgewood Water include Award of Contracts for Various Water Main Replacements, Furniture, Interior Solutions, Exemplis, and Steelcase, Inc; Authorize Change Order for the EV Charging Space at the New Ridgewood Water Headquarters; Accept the New Ridgewood Water Annual Maintenance Fee; and Establish Interest Rates for Delinquent Payments to the Water Utility. 

 

Introduction of ordinances include the Bond Ordinance for General Capital; Amend Fees for Sewers and Sewage Disposal; Amend Chapter 265 for the Route 17 Park and Ridge Lot; Amend Chapter 265 for Ridgewood Resident Daily Parking Passes; and Energy Aggregation Ordinance.  Public hearing will include Amending Chapter 145 regarding Graydon Pool Fees, Tennis and Pickleball Membership Fees. 

 

Resolutions include:  Authorize Tax Assessor/Tax Collector to File Appeals (an annual resolution which also authorizes the Tax Assessor, along with the Village Attorney, to conduct settlement negotiations before the Tax Court of New Jersey); Award Contract - Annual Maintenance for Software for the Finance Department; Authorize Shared Services Agreement - School Resource Officer for $100,000.00 ($200,000.00 per school year split between the Village and the Ridgewood Board of Education); Authorize Shared Services Agreement - Bergen County Police Chiefs’ Association Mutual Aid Plan and Rapid Deployment Force (Bergen County communities assist each during natural, manmade, and weather emergencies); Authorize Execution of Agreement for Polystyrene Styrofoam Densifier Trial Period; Certify Compliance with Federal Civil Rights Requirements (certifies that hiring practices as they pertain to an individual’s criminal history are in compliance with federal guidelines, which must be adopted annually); Establish Interest Rates for Delinquent Taxes, Non-Payment of Assessments and Liens; Establish Interest Rates for Delinquent Payments for Significant Sewer Discharger Bills; Endorse Application for Community Development Block Grant for SHARE, Inc., 130 Prospect Street, for the Purchase and Installation of an Air Conditioning Unit; Endorse Application for Community Development Block Grant for SHARE, Inc., 130 Prospect Street, for Renovation to Front of House; Endorse Application for Community Development Block Grant for Family Promise for “Steps to Success:  Empowering Families Through Workforce Development”; Endorse Application for Community Service Block Grant for Children Aid and Family Services;  Authorize Mailing of Estimated 2022 Third Quarter Tax Bills; Authorize Electronic Tax Sales; Authorize Cancellation of Tax Overpayments and Delinquent Amounts; Authorize Tax Collector to Charge for Mailing Tax Sale Notices; Amend Resolution #21-354 for Release of Escrowed Funds and Irrevocable Letters of Credit for Two-Forty Associates, LLC; and Authorize Joining the Hunterdon County ESC Cooperative Purchasing Program. 

 

Ms. Mailander asked the Councilmembers if there was anything they wanted to have off of the consent agenda.  There were no items desired off of the consent agenda by any Councilmember. It was mentioned that Councilman Vagianos would recuse himself at next week’s meeting concerning the amendment to the Ridgewood Resident One-Day Parking Passes.  Councilman Vagianos thanked his Council colleagues and Village staff for enabling this meeting to be held in a safe manner.

 

9.         COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

            None.

 

10.       RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION

 

Deputy Clerk Eileen Young read Resolution #22-01, to go into Closed Session as follows:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11.       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 Work Session was adjourned at 10:33 p.m.

 

 

                                                                                                                                                           

                                                                                                Susan Knudsen

                                                                                                                    Mayor

 

 

                                                                       

Eileen Young

Deputy Village Clerk