20211027 - Village Council Public Workshop Minutes
A REGULAR 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 OCTOBER 27, 2021, AT 7:30 P.M.
- CALL TO ORDER – OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS ACT – ROLL CALL – FLAG SALUTE
Mayor Knudsen called the meeting to order at 7:31 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. At roll call, the following were present: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Deputy Mayor Sedon, and Mayor Knudsen. Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; Eileen Young, Deputy Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney.
Mayor Knudsen led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag and asked for a moment of silence in honor of the American men and women serving in our Armed Forces, as well as those serving as first responders.
- COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Alex Blake, 259 West Glen Avenue, thanked Mayor Knudsen and Councilwoman Reynolds for taking time to listen to concerns about the walkway that is being constructed. He received revised plans from Chris Rutishauser, Village Engineer, who wants the work done quickly before the cold weather arrives. Mr. Blake has to address issues such as moving water lines and vegetation. It will be difficult to get this work done within 15 days. Mr. Blake didn’t think it was legal to require that this work be done in such a short period of time, and he asked Matthew Rogers, the Village Attorney, whether this is legal. Mr. Blake added that Mr. Rutishauser will not return his phone calls or emails. He does not respond to neighboring residents either.
Mayor Knudsen said she would provide the necessary background information to Mr. Rogers.
Dave White, 405 North Monroe Avenue, echoed the concerns of Mr. Blake adding that better communication and a dialogue is needed with Mr. Rutishauser.
Mayor Knudsen stated that this is a complicated issue and she suggested that someone visit the site and review the issues with the concerned residents. She said that she would be happy to attend along with Councilwoman Reynolds.
Rurik Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, commented that Mayor Knudsen should address everyone who speaks during the public comment segment of the meeting.
Regarding the Schedler property, Mr. Halaby said he demands that the Chief Financial Officer of the Village prepare a reconciliation document detailing how money has been allocated and spent. He deserves this information as a taxpayer in Ridgewood, in Bergen County and in New Jersey.
There were no additional comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen closed this portion of the meeting.
3. MANAGER’S REPORT
Ms. Mailander stated that next Tuesday is Election Day; however, residents can vote early using a mail in ballot, or they can drop the ballot in select drop boxes by November 2nd. In person early voting is scheduled from 10 A.M. to 8 P.M. Monday through Saturday, and 10:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. on Sunday, at select polling places from October 23rd to October 31st. There are also School Board Elections with incumbents Sheila Brogan, Christopher Kaufman, and Hyun Ju Kwak up for re-election. Susan Madison and Mohammed Mahmood are also running, and the election will be for three available spots for three year terms. There is also an election to fill the Village Council term of Councilwoman Bernadette Walsh. Melanie Hooban and Paul Vagianos are running for this three-year term. Both elections have forums which can be viewed on Fios Channel 33.
Ms. Mailander stated that there will be a shredding event on Saturday, November 6th at the Graydon Pool parking lot from 9:00 A.M. until 12:30 P.M. Documents will be securely shred until the truck is full. The limit is four file size boxes per vehicle, and no plastic bags or binder clips will be accepted. A styrofoam collection for containers and peanuts will be held on October 16th, 10:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. or until the truck is full. The location is the Graydon Pool parking lot.
Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that the Ridgewood Farmers Market is organized by the Chamber of Commerce and is open every Sunday from 8:30 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. at the train station parking lot through the end of November.
Ms. Mailander announced that service at the Train Station Coffee Concession has been suspended due to a lack of customers. The service will be re-evaluated in January.
Ms. Mailander announced the Halloween Parade sponsored by the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce for kids, parents, grandparents, and friends will take place on Saturday, October 30th weather permitting, from 11:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M., at Memorial Park at Van Neste Square.
Ms. Mailander reported that the annual leaf placement yellow postcard has been sent to all Village homes. Leaf placement will begin October 18th in Area B, followed by other areas. She stressed that this is for leaf placement only. The pick-up crews will come through the areas after the expiration of the leaf placement dates. Ms. Mailander asked residents not to place leaves for pick-up past the pick-up date listed on the postcard. They must wait for the next leaf placement date to put out additional leaves.
Ms. Mailander stated that Veteran’s Day is November 11th. Village offices will be closed and there will be no garbage or recycling pickup. She asked residents to check the garbage and recycling schedules since they will have changed. There will be a Veteran’s Day Service on November 11th at 11:00 A.M.
Ms. Mailander listed upcoming Village Council meeting dates, which are broadcast, live on the Village website and on Fios Channel 34 and YouTube. Upcoming meeting dates are as follows: November 3 and December 1, 2021 are Village Council Work Sessions beginning at 7:30; and November 10 and December 8, 2021 are Village Council Public Meetings beginning at 8:00 P.M.
Ms. Mailander stated that Mr. Rooney, Village CFO has prepared information on money spent and grants received relative to the Schedler property and the Zabriskie-Schedler House. Mr. Rooney reported an analysis of appropriations through October 15th which reflects total appropriations for the improvements and the house in the amount of $7 million. The Village has spent almost $4 million. Funding is $4.1 million for bonds and notes; $2.3 million for grants and a down payment of $500,000. This is broken up by appropriations for the field at $1.8 million; property at $3 million; and the house at $2.3 million.
Mr. Rooney said there are eight to nine grants that have been applied for and he has documentation to validate how much funding the Village will get with the exception of the property. He has County resolutions supporting the purchase price, but it will take more time to extract information from internal documents. Mr. Rooney stated that the Village has also received $800,000 from Green Acres and the Bergen County Trust. He noted the property taxes paid before the Village acquired the land in the amount of $49,000 in 2010.
Mr. Rooney stated that there is a breakdown of how funds have been spent including advertising permits, field and land clearance, house construction, hazardous waste, architectural costs, financing costs. These costs are broken down by the house, the land and the field.
4. Village Council Reports
CBDAC: Councilwoman Perron said that the Central Business Advisory Committee met on October 14th. Chris Rutishauser, the Village Engineer, attended the meeting and was questioned about snow removal and holiday decorations. He was asked about cleanup of the tunnel and he explained the tunnel is historic. There was a discussion on an expanded use of the parking garage as well as the importance of Grab and Go which will begin on November 1st. There was a discussion of the Town Garage station that has closed and Mr. Rutishauser stated that groundwater cleanup has been ongoing.
Library Board of Trustees: Councilwoman Perron attended the Library Board of Trustees meeting in place of Mayor Knudsen. The Library is scheduling their author luncheon for April 6th which will be held at Seasons Restaurant. There is no author booked to attend at this time. The Library Foundation is waiting to hear about the second grant they applied for relative to repairs and maintenance on the building. They are also considering potential renters for the second floor of the Pease Library.
Green Ridgewood: Councilwoman Perron reported that Green Ridgewood held their styrofoam collection on October 16th which was very successful. The next day Green Ridgewood had two cars on display at the Ridgewood Farmer’s Market. Information on the Encouraging Alternative Green Energy for Ridgewood (EAGER) program was distributed.
Sustainable Yards Sub Committee: Councilwoman Perron said there was a meeting of the Sustainable Yards Sub Committee, which educates residents about sustainable yard maintenance. There was a walk around Twinney Pond with the Head of the Wildscapes and Nancy Bigos, Director of Parks and Recreation.
Chamber of Commerce: Councilmember Perron reported that the Chamber continues with “Feed the Frontlines”. She encouraged anyone interested to volunteer to drive the meals; Councilmember Perron mentioned the Halloween Parade on Saturday.
Open Space Committee: Councilmember Perron stated that they took Barbara Davis, and her assistant who together are writing the Open Space portion of the Master Plan and the Environmental Resource Inventory, on a tour of most of the Ridgewood Open Spaces. They had provided two draft maps of the Open Space earlier in the day and at the Committee meeting members reviewed the maps.
Planning Board: Councilwoman Reynolds reported on the Planning Board meeting of October 19th. This included the second public meeting of Phase Two of the Master Plan. There was a presentation by Heyer Gruel followed by a discussion relative to the circulation element, downtown economic development element, and the Green Building Environmental Sustainability element. The presentation is available to view at www.ridgewoodvillagemp.org. A question is presented every week to anyone who signs up at this email address. This is a great way to express your opinion of how the Village should look in the future.
Heyer, Gruel will be developing the text for each of the elements presented between now and January. The next meeting will be January 18, 2022. There will be a discussion with suggested revisions. The Planning Board hopes to adopt the document in March of 2022.
The Planning Board discussed the amended H Zone, which will be introduced at this evening’s Special Meeting.
Citizen’s Safety Advisory Committee: Councilwoman Reynolds reported that the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee met on October 21. She said that all crossing guard posts have been staffed with the exception of Ridge School.
Councilwoman Reynolds stated that the West Glen Avenue sidewalk construction is scheduled for the end of October into November. Some of the neighbors came to review the layout and were unhappy with the 4 ft. wide tree planting strip between the sidewalk and the curb, and in the overall process. It was determined that the grass strip will be eliminated, and that the sidewalk will abut the curb. Councilwoman Reynolds said that the West Glen Avenue/North Monroe Street signal upgrade is being coordinated with the Signal Division and will be done at the same time as the sidewalk work. The pedestrian crossing signal at West Glen Avenue and Hillcrest Road has been ordered and “Yield to Pedestrian” signs have been ordered in the meantime.
Councilwoman Reynolds commented that North Irving Street parking continues to be problematic with illegal parking and safety issues particularly during recreational events. Added enforcement was encouraged and the benefit of a parking map was discussed. Councilwoman Reynolds will contact the Board of Education and the sports groups to determine if it is wise to create a map to show where parking is allowed since people from out of town seem to be parking illegally. Councilwoman Reynolds stated that the next meeting is November 18th, 2021.
Community Center Advisory Board: Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that the Community Center Advisory Board will meet tomorrow at 5:00 P.M. in the Annie Zusy Youth Center.
Mayor Knudsen referred to the Master Plan and encouraged everyone to get involved to plan for the future of the Village. She asked everyone to participate in answering the weekly survey question.
Historic Preservation Committee (HPC): Mayor Knudsen reported on the Historic Preservation Committee meeting and stated that this is the first time the committee has met in person since January 2020.
Mayor Knudsen met with the group overseeing “Downtown for the Holidays”. She reminded everyone about the FEMA event on September 25th from 9:00 to 5:00 P.M. on the patio at Village Hall. Mayor Knudsen recognized five new Eagle Scouts in Ridgewood. She stated that this was a difficult time to complete projects due to COVID restrictions; however, the projects were outstanding.
There were multiple applications for Committee review including an individual homeowner who will be matching the appropriate design of a period home. Several businesses presented applications for signage including World Class beauty salon shop and a restaurant exterior vestibule.
Mayor Knudsen said that Joe Seplicki would remain as HPC Chair and Barbara Ferrante will be Vice Chair. She thanked everyone on the Committee for their patience as the Committee reorganizes.
Blue Star Dinner Event: Mayor Knudsen attended the Blue Star Dinner which honors and recognizes family members serving in the Armed Services. Each family had the opportunity to speak about their family member who is serving. She thanked American Legion Commander Bob Paoli and Lou Francis and the families and individuals serving the nation.
Matt Rogers, Village Attorney, said that former Councilmember Jeff Voigt wrote a letter to the editor giving inaccurate information concerning himself, his salary, and compensation. Mr. Voigt also commented on work Mr. Rogers had done for the Village. Someone took the information in that letter and used in a Facebook post. Mr. Rogers stated that this incident highlights the problem with social media because people take this information to be factual. Mr. Voigt approached the League of Women Voters to open an investigation into the allegations.
Mr. Rogers referred to Mr. Voigt’s letter which states that he was receiving an adjusted salary of $304,000, in addition to other compensation and said that this was inaccurate. Mr. Rogers represents another municipality in Bergen County where he receives an annual salary and he approached Mr. Rooney, the Village CFO, and Heather Mailander, Village Manager, with a similar proposal. He thought this would simplify the budget process if his salary was a known amount. This process would mean that he could participate in legal issues earlier than usual, which could be helpful to the Village and the Village wouldn’t be concerned about excessive legal bills. Mr. Rogers said that this new procedure means he is making less compensation than the past few years, with his salary at less than $200,000.
Mr. Voigt referred to Mr. Rogers’ salary in 2021, as being $304,000; however, this is incorrect as that figure represents legal fees for himself in addition to the labor attorney, the bond attorney and any other specials attorneys that might be brought in. In 2020, when Mr. Voigt was a Councilmember, he approved the budget line item for Village Attorney in the amount of $304.000. Mr. Rogers reiterated that in 2022 budget, his fee is being reduced due to the new annual fee arrangement and he will be receiving 7.5% less than 2020.
Mr. Rogers referred to several other accusations made in the letter including the One Vote case where Mr. Rogers is alleged to have received $50,000. He said his actual billings were less than $6,000 because of his decision not to bill the Village for several months of work in order to keep costs down. Mr. Voigt referred to a nonprofit fund-raising question that came before the Council. Mr. Rogers was asked to do research regarding the legalities involved and advised that a 501(c)(3) none profit could be formed but it could not be run by the Village. He billed the Village for this work.
Mr. Voigt brought inaccurate information to the League of Women Voters last week and included another issue. Mr. Voigt indicated that Mr. Rogers should not be charging the Village to work on the OPRAs that Mr. Voigt has filed with the Village. Mr. Rogers explained that any OPRA request that includes any type of communication has to be reviewed for personal and confidential information, which is part of the job of a Municipal Attorney. Mr. Rogers had to defend Donna Jackson in six complaints filed against her by Mr. Voigt in the Government Records Council.
Mr. Rogers pointed out that it is easy to write and hide behind facts on social media because someone will latch onto it. He is responding at this point because this situation has gone too far. He said he would be happy to address further questions.
Councilwoman Perron said that she appreciates Mr. Rogers’ guidance and help with many of the issues that come before the Village Council. She had hesitated to ask questions due to the billing procedure that had been in place. She is very happy with the new arrangement and accessibility to Mr. Rogers, which is a benefit to the residents.
Deputy Mayor Sedon asked if there were any legal avenues open to pursue because Mr. Voigt has been printing lies in his letters to the editor. Mr. Rogers said he wouldn’t recommend that, and he indicated that once you are a public figure or doing public service you open yourself up for criticism.
Councilwoman Reynolds said that she is also happy with the new arrangement that is saving money for the Village. She does not hesitate to call Mr. Rogers when she has questions, which is something she wouldn’t have done in the past.
Mayor Knudsen stated that she is ashamed of some residents in the Village as well as the former Councilmember. She said that Mr. Rogers is not only a great attorney but a wonderful person as well and having his reputation questioned by a former Councilman is astonishing and unconscionable. She read comments relative to Mr. Rogers receiving a $100,000 raise, the Village Council not supporting a grant application by the Library among many other things that have been regurgitated on social medial. When trying to correct these claims, Mayor Knudsen was told that her factual information might be someone else’s truth. She stated that it is fact and reiterated the fact that Ridgewood has a wonderful Village Attorney, and she is grateful for his service to the community.
5. DISCUSSION
a. Operations
1.) Ordinance for Hospital Zone Development Regulations
Mayor Knudsen stated that the potential ordinance change has been reviewed by the Planning Board and Mr. Rogers. Mr. Rogers came forward and explained that this ordinance revision has to be looked at from both the affordable housing litigation as well as the litigation involving the expansion of Valley Hospital. There are two outstanding points which include the power plant and the recognition that any interior and exterior changes to the site can be permitted, as long as no additional square footage, height, and other encroachment including bulk requirements are not changed. He suggested an amendment under Section E, Number 8, recognizing these facts. Mr. Rogers noted that in the case of a hospital the power plant is a regulated activity meaning that it falls under DEP guidelines and other Department of Health guidelines relative to items such as exhaust that could change the size of a facility as the regulations change. A site plan would be needed in the case of any changes and the Village will have to recognize that any change to the power plant will require site plan review by the Village Council and Planning Board. This procedure has been agreed to by Mr. Drill and only the one amendment relative to the interior and exterior changes needs to be included in the ordinance.
Mr. Rogers explained that according to the agreement on the extension lawsuit, Valley Hospital is allowed to continue to conduct health care services as enumerated in the ordinance and all the buildings on the site at the present time are deemed to be conforming. He reiterated that any interior or exterior changes as noted previously can be done via building permits or site plan review rather than a variance.
b. Policy
1.) Human Resources Manual
Ms. Mailander explained that every two years the Village is required to update the Human Resource Manual under the Municipal Excess Liability Joint Insurance Fund. The Fund has hired a labor law attorney to overhaul and revamp the entire Human Resource manual including some items specifically tailored to Ridgewood such as the recently adopted social media policy. The manual has to be adopted in order for the Village to qualify for a premium reduction and it will be distributed to the employees in November.
6. MOTION TO SUSPEND REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING AND CONVENE SPECIAL PUBLIC MEETING
At 8:25 P.M., upon motion by Deputy Mayor Sedon, seconded by Councilwoman Perron, and carried by a unanimous voice vote, the Village Council suspended the Work Session.
At 8:30 P.M., upon motion by Deputy Mayor Sedon, seconded by Councilwoman Reynolds, and carried by a unanimous voice vote, the Work Session was reconvened.
7. DISCUSSION
a. Ridgewood Water
1.) Award Bid –Servicing and Repair of Potable Water Pumping Facilities
Ms. Mailander stated that three bid specifications were picked up for this item and one bid was received. The Service and Repair of Potable Water Pumping Facilities is a unit price service for various repairs and replacements on the water system supply, treatment and distribution equipment contained within the well house, along with treatment building and booster stations. The calculated bid tabulation is $244,940. The cost for the previous two years was $237,840, and the current contract expires on December 31, 2021.
Ms. Mailander stated that Mr. Calbi is recommending the award to the sole bidder, Wm Stothoff Company of Flemington, N.J. Funds are available in the Water Utility Operating Budget. Mr. Calbi explained that the amount will be awarded every year of the service contract because it is a unit price bid containing a number of items including service hours and equipment. This makes it easier to identify a low bidder.
2.) Award Bid – Servicing and Repairing of Electrical Source
Ms. Mailander stated that the Water Department went out to bid and two bids were received. One bidder was disqualified because they did not comply with bid instructions. The remaining bidder, Vanore Electric Co. of Hackensack, N.J. submitted a price of $110.37 an hour for both 2022 and 2023. The funds are available in the Water Utility Temporary Operating budget of 2022. This is a two-year contract awarded on a yearly basis not to exceed $250,000 for each year.
3.) Award National Cooperative Purchasing Alliance Contract – Genetec CCTV and Access Control System
Ms. Mailander explained that the new Ridgewood Water Facility, located at 111 North Maple Avenue, requires security cameras and door access patrols. The installation of these devices is not included in the construction contract for the facility. She said that the Genetec system has been chosen so that it can be integrated into the existing Village access system. The system falls under the National Cooperative Purchasing Alliance Contract and will be awarded to Secure Watch 24 of Moonachie, N.J. in an amount not to exceed $79,999.36. Funding is available in the Water Department Capital Budget.
Mayor Knudsen recalled another situation when the Village had to change out the Secure Watch cameras because the images weren’t clear. She was concerned that this might happen again. Mr. Calbi stated that he will speak to Sgt. Chuck to get his opinion relative to the camera quality and provide information at the next meeting. He pointed out that the Village is entrenched in the Genetec system for the card reading services.
4.) Additional Award Bergen County Cooperative Purchasing Program Contract – Bituminous Concrete Plus Various Road Repair Materials
Ms. Mailander explained that this is an additional award in the amount of $50,000 for bituminous concrete and various road repair materials not anticipated at the time of the original award due to unanticipated water repairs and replacements. The Village went out to bid in February and a service contract was awarded to Braen Stone Industries of Haledon, N.J., for an initial amount not to exceed $70,000. This was purchased through the Bergen County Cooperative Purchasing program.
Councilwoman Perron questioned the significant overage and Mr. Calbi said that this is for the replacement of the entire water main on Lakeview Drive. The Department makes an estimated amount of what the department will utilize at the beginning of every year and often an additional award is needed based on what happens throughout the year.
b. Parking
1.) Parking Permits
Ms. Mailander stated that she and Mr. Rooney have discussed the Parking Permits for 2022 and they recommend that the prices remain the same as in 2021. She reviewed the payment schedule as follows: for residents $1,325 to park on the second and third floor of the parking garage, Train Station, Cottage Place, and Park and Ride lots; $1,000 to park at the parking garage, Cottage Place and Park and Ride. It will cost non-residents $1,000 to park at the Park and Ride facility. Residents can park at the Train Station using Park Mobile or the kiosk. The Central Business District permit is $35 for the annual sticker with monthly hang tags at $105 per month and $52.50 if purchased in the middle of the month. This allows for parking on the fourth floor of the garage and the Walnut Street lot. The price of the one-day parking pass, which was recently increased, will remain the same. The parking prices are somewhat challenging because people are not commuting into New York as often as in the past, but cars must display the Train Station permit sticker. Although commuter parking has been removed from the Chestnut and Prospect lots, people continue to park there. There will be a recommendation made shortly on a parking location for those with a one-day pass.
Councilwoman Reynolds asked if they should consider opening the garage up to non-residents in 2022. Ms. Mailander asked if the charge to park for non-residents should be higher than for residents as has been done in the past. Mayor Knudsen suggested that parking be opened to residents only in January and any remaining commuter parking could be available to non-residents beginning in February, pro-rated at the same price.
c. Budget
1.) Acceptance of 2020 Audit and Corrective Action Plan
Robert Rooney, Village CFO, introduced Bud Jones, the partner on the Village Audit. Mr. Jones referred to the Comparative Statement of Operations and Change in Fund Balance, which shows that the Village had $170 million in revenue; $167 million in expenses; and $1.4 million of adjustments as a result of the Covid special emergency. This has resulted in a net increase in fund balance of $300,000. Miscellaneous revenues decreased significantly due to Covid; however, thanks to the actions taken by the Village in 2020 it was able to maintain a stable fund balance. Mr. Jones reported that in 2020, the Water Department had increased revenue of $2.3 million and parking had a decrease of $250,000.
Mr. Rooney said that there are two resolutions for consideration including acceptance of the audit report filed by Mr. Jones. Councilmembers must individually attest that they have read the general comments and recommendations. Mr. Rooney has drafted the corrective action plan, which addresses each recommendation suggested. He has already implemented three of the recommendations and is working to implement the other in the next several weeks.
Mr. Rooney explained that the difference in the general and the parking is the result of emergency funding that was passed during 2020, to make up for the deficiencies in revenue. The Water Department could raise their rates based upon usage. He expects the 2022 budget process to be challenging, but he feels comfortable stating that the Village is where it should be at the moment.
2.) Award Professional Services – Archaeological Survey for Zabriskie-Schedler House
Ms. Mailander stated that the plans and specifications for the finishing and planting of the landscape berm at the referenced location are out for bids. Part of the work entails the installation of a water main and irrigation system to keep the trees alive and healthy. The site is governed by the New Jersey State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) and the Village must exercise due diligence and care before and during the excavation for the water main to ensure minimal impact to archaeological potential. Ms. Mailander said that there is a proposal from Hunter Research of Sparta, N.J., to perform the necessary services. This firm is recommended by Connolly and Hickey Historical Architects and SHPO has been notified that this firm will be doing the work. The amount must not exceed $8,485, and funding is available in the Capital Account for this project.
3.) Award Change Order – Tree Removals Various Locations
Ms. Mailander stated that the Village received bids for this work in July, and the job was awarded to Dujets Tree Experts of Woodland Park, N.J., in the amount of $84,125.00. Due to sidewalk installation on West Glen Avenue, it has been determined that trees in several locations will be removed. Therefore, a request for a Change Order in the amount of $4,600, to Dujets is being submitted. Councilwoman Reynolds said that the order covers five trees, two of which are invasive.
4.) Release of Escrow Funds for Irrevocable Letter of Credit – Chestnut Village, LLC
Ms. Mailander stated that there has been a request to release escrow funds for Chestnut Village located at 150-174 Chestnut Street. Christopher Rutishauser, Village Engineer, agrees that the cash portion of the performance in the amount of $12,046, should be released along with the two Irrevocable Letters of Credit, which are no longer required because the project is complete.
5.) Award Renewal of Subscription – Swagit Production Services
Ms. Mailander stated that Swagit Productions of Plano, Texas, produces and streams Village Council meetings at a cost of $1,500 or $18,000 per year for 50 meetings. This is a cooperative purchasing program to cover 2022 meetings.
6.) Repurposing 2021 Capital Monies – Tree Well Project
Deputy Mayor Sedon explained that there is a request for additional money for police coverage when tree rehab work was conducted that isn’t included in the bid. They could cover the cost of doing twenty-three wells with the money that had been previously approved. Money was found elsewhere in the budget from various appropriations and a budget transfer is possible. He asked for approval to use the remaining money in the tree planting budget to have approximately 24 or 25 tree wells done.
Mayor Knudsen said that the police costs were covered, and she commended everyone in the Shade Tree Commission for their hard work. Deputy Mayor Sedon expects the work to be complete in November.
Carolyn Jacoby, 60 Godwin Avenue, member of the Shade Tree Commission, thanked Councilmembers for allowing use of these funds to cover the cost of police presence as well as the three additional waterings, which is an additional $900, coming from the $8,000. She requested time at the December 1st meeting to make a presentation. Ms. Jacoby reported that 40 ash trees have been removed.
d. Policy
1.) Approval of Municipal Alliance Grant Application
Ms. Mailander explained that this is an annual application that provides funding from the New Jersey Governor’s Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse for recreational and social programs in support of alcohol and drug abuse awareness. It is a grant in the amount of $4,507.18, and there is a match of 25% in cash from the Village or $1,126.80, and an in-kind match of 75% in the amount of $3,380.39.
2.) Establish Standards for Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Spaces
Ms. Mailander said that the Village is required to update Land Use Ordinances governing the installation of Electric Vehicle (EV) supply equipment in order for make ready parking/charging spaces available in the Village. This is based on Senate Bill 3223, and the proposed ordinance is based on the model ordinance issued by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA). The proposed ordinance has been reviewed by the Village Planner, Maryann Bucci-Carter, and was presented to the Planning Board at their October 4, 2021 meeting. Most of the ordinance is mandated and cannot be adjusted. Adoption of the ordinance is required, and these parking spaces are to be constructed as part of any future development. The ordinance will be adopted in December after it goes back for final review by the Planning Board.
Councilman Perron pointed out that this ordinance is not retroactive. Mr. Rogers said that they are going to begin with new developments, and he expects that more requirements will be forthcoming.
3.) Dining Corrals
Ms. Mailander stated that dining corrals will expire on November 1st. The Village Council could decide to extend the time into November, or the end of the year. They are considering charging based on square footage rather than per parking space which is being done at this time. She added that in some cases dining corrals are overlapping neighboring retail or restaurant facilities which is problematic.
Mr. Rooney stated that after a thorough review, he spoke to William Gilsenan. They discussed the average rate per square footage going forward for leases that Mr. Gilsenan is familiar with. The price is between $35 and $40 per square foot including heat and air conditioning. Mr. Rooney used the lot sizes of the properties and the taxes that are paid on the land to determine a tax per square foot of $2.48. Every parking space is 160 sq. ft. which means the Village would charge between $625 and $1,900 per month to use the corral spaces. This is 28% higher than businesses are paying now. Mr. Rooney stated that many businesses would only use the corrals for eight months and a system could be structured to collect for the eight months a year when there is the most revenue income. The minimum or nothing could be charged for the remaining months of the year.
Mayor Knudsen said she spoke to one restaurant owner who wanted the corrals to be more permanent. He suggested charging a higher rate per square foot because the Village is giving up parking spaces. Mayor Knudsen recognized that there have been some concerns with certain corrals in several locations. Some locations are better than others because there are corrals that impede retail space. There have been some complaints from residents who live adjacent to the Central Business District (CBD). She suggested considering the locations on a case-by-case basis.
Ms. Mailander asked how the Village Council felt about leaving the current arrangement intact until December 31st. Mayor Knudsen agreed to extend the arrangement until December 31st when she hopes the issues will be finalized. The remaining Councilmembers were in agreement. Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that the Council will have to come up with a permanent arrangement that is fair to everyone.
Councilwoman Reynolds questioned whether taking this on a case-by-case basis was discriminatory. Mr. Rogers explained that the Council needs to identify the common threads to define an ordinance. Mayor Knudsen has reviewed the code which states that bathroom facilities do not have to be expanded to address street dining, but the Village would be allowing something more permanent, and this could raise other issues. Councilwoman Perron commented that this is a money maker for the Village which is in a parking crisis. She feels outdoor dining is worth continuing because of its festive nature. This will be discussed in more detail in December.
e. Operations
1.) Accept Donation – Benches for Library and Van Neste Square
Ms. Mailander stated that the Women Gardeners of Ridgewood continue to contribute their talents and efforts to a number of community projects. They fund and maintain the gardens at the Ridgewood Public Library, Habernickel Family Park, The Stable, and Van Neste Square. The Club would like to make an additional gift of two benches; one at the Library and the other in Van Neste Square. Ms. Mailander said that the benches cost $2,000 and a Council resolution is required to accept this donation.
2.) Review of Best Practices Inventory
Ms. Mailander explained that at this time of year the Department of Local Government Services asks questions of the Village relative to municipal government procedures. Receipt of State Aid is dependent on at least fifteen positive responses to twenty-eight questions. The Village is in excess of this requirement and will receive 100% of State Aid.
8. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Mayor Knudsen stated that they again would hear comments from the public.
Rurik Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, said that Swagit is the only decent segment of the Village website. Regarding the Schedler property, Mr. Halaby asked why Mr. Rooney didn’t make a financial report available two years ago. He described the property as resembling a battleground.
Mr. Halaby stated that the reason there is so much misinformation is because the Village does not provide enough information. He recommended public meetings on the budget with Mr. Rooney. Mr. Halaby attended the Master Plan meetings, and he was unimpressed by Planning Board members. He said that few questions are raised, and he is surprised at the lack of debate on the issues.
Mr. Halaby reiterated that there is no access to information in Ridgewood. He said he loves the Village and hates to see the Village going in the direction it is going in at the present time.
Bob Upton, 172 West Glen Avenue, stated that Councilwoman Reynolds indicated earlier that the grass strip on West Glen Avenue will be eliminated. He said that there are 33 residents who have property that will be directly affected by this decision, and he hopes that this isn’t the result of a discussion with one or two residents. Mr. Upton recommended an outreach to the entire neighborhood since the elimination of the grass strips effects the overall aesthetics of the area. He is not in favor of the uniform looking retaining wall which he described as military looking. Mr. Upton said that the individual property-owners will need to speak to Mr. Rutishauser.
Carolyn Jacoby, 160 Godwin Avenue, provided an update on the trees. She reported that she is hopeful that the work will be completed on 22 tree wells before Thanksgiving. The tree varieties being planted are Trident Maple, Valley Forge Elm, Swamp white Oak, Honey Locust and Sycamore. A more robust plan on Phase II for 2022 will be presented in the near future. Ms. Jacoby said that more ash trees will have to be eliminated next year, and she hopes to have eight additional tree wells completed in early spring. The tree inventory is 85% complete and she anticipates it will cost and additional $10,000 to $15,000 to complete. Ms. Jacoby suggested that the Village partner with Bergen County to remove trees on County roads. She thanked the Council for their support.
Alex Blake, 259 West Glen Avenue, again noted the lack of communication with the Village Engineer. He said that this is not only unprofessional, it is not right. Residents feel that Mr. Rutishauser should be held accountable. He pointed out that at least twenty people have been trying to contact Mr. Rutishauser about the work on West Glen Avenue with no response. These residents want to have some input on design issues relative to their property. Mr. Blake stated that there should be a mutual understanding between the residents and the Village. He again noted that he did not think it was legal to give a property owner only 15 days’ notice that their property was going to be dug up. This project is being rushed for an unknown reason and he repeated that people should be able to provide their input to Mr. Rutishauser.
No one else came forward at this time and Mayor Knudsen closed the public comment portion of the meeting.
Mayor Knudsen spoke about the sidewalks on West Glen Avenue and suggested that the documents be compiled and put up on the project folder on the Village website. The information should also be sent to all of the neighbors as soon as possible.
Mayor Knudsen stated that the Planning Board has done an amazing job relative to the Master Plan. She added that she is proud of the members of the community who have been so engaged in the process. She reminded everyone that the Planning Board and the Master Plan Committee are all volunteers, and the residents of Ridgewood should be proud and grateful.
9. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION
Ms. Young read Resolution #21-324 to go into Closed Session as follows:
10. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Deputy Mayor Sedon, seconded by Councilwoman Reynolds, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 9: P.M.
_________________________________ Susan Knudsen Mayor
_____________________________ Eileen Young
Deputy Village Clerk
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