20211103 - 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 NOVEMBER 3, 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, Sedon, and Mayor Knudsen. Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; Eileen Young, 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.
Mayor Knudsen acknowledged all Ridgewood residents who ran for public office this year and congratulated the winners.
- COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Mayor Knudsen asked if there were any comments or questions from the public.
Paul Vagianos, 280 Rivara Court, thanked all those who participated in the election and said he looks forward to serving on the Village Council. Regarding tonight’s agenda, Mr. Vagianos noted that the Council would be considering free parking on Saturdays during the Holiday season. He said he finds this counterproductive because most of these spaces are used by employees making it much harder for shoppers and diners to shop.
Bob Upton, 172 West Glen Avenue, summarized a recent email he sent to the Village Council and the Engineering Department. He thanked the Mayor, Ms. Mailander, and Councilwoman Reynolds for meeting with area residents last week. There has been no conversation with Mr. Rutishauser, Village Engineer, since the plans were sent out on August 25th. Some residents have been told the plan is moving ahead even though it is still being debated. He commented that he supports sidewalks; however, some aspects of the plan are problematic. There should be input on traffic management, planning and aesthetic design. There has been a question of whether or not to include a grass verge in the design to slow traffic. Mr. Upton said he is a 40-year resident at his address and he said nothing will slow the traffic. Mr. Upton said that the suggestion to plants trees in the verge will only worsen visibility problems when exiting driveways. He stated that if they are concerned with ascetics and design, it would make sense to have a complete plan and budget before construction commences.
Gladys Chinitz, 632 Eastbrook Road, said she opposes an extension of hours on the pickleball courts at Glen School. She recalled that last year many of the neighbors and representatives of pickleball participants, including Councilmembers, spent a great deal of time working towards a compromise that was acceptable to everyone. The hours at the pickleball court went from an indefinite number of hours and days per week, to 45 hours over five days per week. She fails to see why this agreement is being revisited. The noise in the neighborhood continues until the playing stops and if there are no restrictions no one will be able to enjoy their outdoor space. The neighbors have compromised to accommodate the pickleball players and are subjected to never ending noise. Ms. Chinitz said this is not fair and more pickleball courts are needed in Ridgewood instead of adding more hours of play to the Glen Courts.
Judy Mac, 330 Eastbrook Road, spoke regarding the pickleball courts and pointed out that in 2019, the Village installed four pickleball courts without notification to the neighbors who live adjacent to the courts. Ms. Mac met with Mayor Hache, Nancy Bigos and Heather Mailander shortly after and they suggested using muted balls; however, this made no difference. Progress was made when the hours of play were lessened and play was only allowed for five days. Ms. Mac said she was opposed to unlimited pickleball since many people are working from home due to COVID 19 and there is data available to show that half the people playing at the Glen Courts are not Ridgewood residents. Pickleball should not be located 45 ft. from neighboring homes and she asked the Village Council to find a suitable solution to allow residents to enjoy the game while allowing the neighbors to enjoy a quiet neighborhood. She asked the Council to find a new location for the pickleball courts and share this information and the timeline with Village residents.
Beth Abbott, 25 Welch Road, Lebanon, Age Friendly Ridgewood; Sue Ulrich, 10 Bender Road, Waldwick, Age Friendly Ridgewood; and Sheila Brogan, 302 Kensington Drive, Age Friendly Ridgewood introduced themselves. Ms. Abbott stated that older residents in the Village would find emergency preparedness information useful for situations such as Hurricane Sandy and now COVID 19. Sue Ulrich found a guide published in 2013 and Jeremy Kleiman of OEM, and Heather Mailander agreed to work with Ms. Abbott, Ms. Brogan and herself to update and edit the brochure. They spent $5,540 of Age Friendly Funds on the project and printed 1,000 brochures that are available at Village Hall, OEM Department and HILT events as well as vaccine clinics. Sheila Brogan gave the brochures out this evening and said the information would be available in PDF form on their website, AgeFriendlyRidgewood.org and on the OEM website. They have reprinted information cards about local transportation and the Village’s senior buses are at the top of the list. The Home Improvement and Chore brochure has also been updated and is available.
Rurik Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, said that yesterday’s election also known as One Village/One Vote will be remembered as Ridgewood’s finest hour.
Mr. Halaby spoke relative to Health Barn and encouraged Village Councilmembers to get it done. He referred to Schedler property and asked Councilmembers to refrain from spending money on the berm until the newly elected Councilmember is sworn in and there is time to contemplate what a disaster Schedler has become. The Finance Advisory Committee should be reconvened to look into all the money that has been spent on the Schedler property with nothing to show for it.
Mr. Halaby stated that it is taking over a year to come to an agreement with Health Barn. He asked for an update on the Pease Library, which has been vacant for over a year. He noted that a column at the Ridgewood Taxi service was damaged three or four years ago and has been left to rot. This is a historic building and he said the column needs to be repaired and the building should be leased.
Hans-Jurgen Lehmann, 234 Union Street, referred to the statement made by Matt Rogers at a recent meeting. Mr. Lehman said he has also known Matt Rogers since the 1970s; however, he finds some of Mr. Rogers’ statements to be disappointing. Mr. Rogers spoke about the Ridgewood Community Foundation, which was formed in part to raise money for various purposes. This idea was applauded by at the time Mayor Hache and Deputy Mayor Knudsen who attended the meeting and dominated the discussion. The Foundation accepted money for the 100th anniversary celebration and he isn’t sure where the money went since the cost of the meeting was paid for through donations. There was supposed to be a pamphlet celebrating the event that was never printed and Mr. Lehmann asked what happened to that money. The Village Manager encouraged donations to the 501C3 but there is no record of this charity with the IRS or the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs and he asked if there were concerns of legitimacy regarding the Foundation. Eventually, just over $40,000 was transferred to the Health Barn Foundation and more money was transferred electronically and used for “Feed the Frontlines”. Mr. Lehmann asked what legal advice Mr. Rogers had given during this time.
Simon Lee, 321 Eastbrook Road, spoke about the extended pickleball hours. He said the sound is very piercing and the fact that play takes place so close to residents is stressful. He can’t utilize the backyard or open the windows and the sound gets through his triple paned windows. He understands that exercise is very important to the players, but he questioned how much thought went into the location of the pickleball courts. Mr. Lee said he opposes adding more hours for play because the continuous high pitched sound gets on residents’ nerves and he asked for some understanding of the situation.
Gail Howard, 652 Eastbrook Road, said that fair-minded people agree that locating the pickleball court at Glen was a mistake, and now there is a discussion of extending the hours while neighborhood residents will be losing the enjoyment of their properties. It has been documented that the sound of pickleball has negative consequences including anxiety and insomnia. The sound is mind numbing and it goes on for hours with no relief. She said that the health, safety and welfare of all Ridgewood residents should matter, not only that of the pickleball players.
Lillian Blood, 250 North Maple Avenue, said she is 81 years old and a pickleball player. She stated that this is a wonderful way to get exercise and be with other people. She said that she went to the home of the person who spoke previously and any sound from the pickleball court was inaudible. The gentleman who spoke before who had recently purchased the house must have been aware of the pickleball courts. The restriction on pickleball play is unfair and Ms. Blood pointed out that play on other fields takes place all day and in the evenings. Many players are forced to play in Oakland, Glen Rock, Wyckoff and Montvale where there are no time restrictions. She asked that playing time be opened up for pickleball players so they can have the same opportunities to play as the other sports.
Alan Chinitz, 632 Eastbrook Road, said that the sound of pickleball he experiences is like eight to twelve continuous hours of never ending cannon shots. He has been a physician at Valley Hospital for 50 years and the repetitive sound, over six to eight hours, is harmful mentally and physically. He added that people in the area were never informed that these courts were going to be turned into pickleball courts. A solution has to be found and the courts have to be some distance from surrounding homes.
There were no additional comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen closed this portion of the meeting.
Mayor Knudsen addressed Mr. Lehmann’s comments saying that the Foundation he referred to is actually the fundraising committee for the 125th Anniversary Committee where everything was donated. She said there is a lease holder at the Pease Library and it has been occupied by Central Dispatch. The lease was not renewed due to COVID 19 and it is an active listing.
Mayor Knudsen recalled at the last meeting Mr. Rooney referred to $7 million in funds that have been appropriated for Schedler, but not spent. The Village holds onto this money while they assess each overall project. She asked Mr. Rooney to prepare a new document to show the actual expenditures and the grant money and commitments. He will review this at the next work session and she reiterated that $7 million was not spent on the Schedler house. Mayor Knudsen said that $531,000 in grant money has been spent on the house, and $300,000 has been spent on the field and berm which was received from the Bergen County Open Space Trust Fund. She explained that money has to be appropriated and there have to be expenditures in order to get the grant money back.
3. MANAGER’S REPORT
Ms. Mailander stated that the Village is sponsoring a shredding event on Saturday, November 6th, at the Graydon Pool Parking lot from 9:00 A.M. to 12:30 P.M. or until the truck is full. She recommended getting there early.
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 stated that the 6th Annual Giving Thanks Dinner will take place as a Grab and Go Event and is scheduled for November 14th from 12 noon to 1:00 P.M. The pickup site is the Old Paramus Reformed Church, 650 East Glen Avenue. Reservations are required through Community Pass or through The Stable at 201-670-5560. Ms. Mailander thanked the contributors who include Health Barn, No Fuss Lunch, Age Friendly Ridgewood, Ridgewood Parks and Recreation Department and Old Paramus Reformed Church.
Ms. Mailander stated that service has been suspended at the Coffee Concession at the Ridgewood Train Station due to lack of customers. The situation will be reevaluated in January.
Ms. Mailander reported that the annual leaf placement yellow postcard has been sent to all Village homes. Leaf collection is ongoing and she stressed that these are dates 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 spoke about Veterans Day events. Village offices and departments 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. in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square by American Legion Post 53.
Ms. Mailander reminded everyone of the presentation by the Village Engineering Department on Flooding Solutions. The forum is scheduled for November 17th at 7:30 P.M. in the Court Room at 7:30 P.M. and will include and question and answer segment.
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: December 1, 2021, and January 5, 2022, 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.
4. Village Council Reports
Chamber of Commerce: Councilwoman Perron reported that the Chamber has released its Annual Guide, which is full of useful information including a map of all parking areas including the Garage. There was a Halloween Party at Van Neste Square this past Saturday which was a huge success.
Feed the Front Lines: Councilwoman Perron said that this organization is looking for more drivers and anyone interested can sign up on Sign up Genius online.
Green Ridgewood: Councilwoman Perron reported that Green Ridgewood will meet tomorrow night via Zoom. There are several vacancies coming up and anyone interested in becoming part of this group can sign up on the form which is on the Village website. Anyone interested in joining tomorrow’s meeting can email Councilwoman Perron and she will forward the link.
CBDAC: Councilwoman Perron said that the Central Business Advisory Committee will meet on November 11th, at 8:30 A.M. via Zoom. The meeting is open to the public and anyone interested can email Councilwoman Perron and she will forward the link to that meeting.
Fields Committee: Councilwoman Perron stated that she attended the Fields Committee Meeting yesterday. The discussion centered around the Field Use Guidelines and whether this information could be posted online or in an app so that assignment of fields is clear to everyone. There was a reminder to coaches that after the game is over the equipment box must be locked, and the lights must be turned off. Councilwoman Perron announced that Opening Day for the Ridgewood Softball and Baseball Association will be April 23rd.
Planning Board: Councilwoman Reynolds reported that the Planning Board met last night and considered the application of Tasko Enterprises for the demolition of a house at 316 West Glen Avenue. The proposal is to build two new houses on the lot. After five meetings and many changes, the owner has agreed with Board suggestions and this should be an excellent project.
The Planning Board meeting of October 19th 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 weekly question is presented 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.
Community Center Advisory Board: Councilman Sedon stated that the Community Center Advisory Board met on Thursday to discuss the Emergency Preparedness Plan. Ms. Mailander spoke about the Giving Thanks Dinner on November 14th.
5. DISCUSSION
a. Ridgewood Water
1.) Award Contract – Asbestos Abatement 451 Goffle Road
Ms. Mailander stated that Ridgewood Water received four quotes for asbestos abatement of the residential and well house structure at 451 Goffle Road. The quotes ranged from $22,800 to $58,900, and were reviewed by RJB Environmental Inc. Mr. Calbi is recommending an award to MTM Metro Corporation, of Paterson, N.J. in an amount not to exceed $22,800. The funding for this project is in the Water Utility Operating Budget.
2.) Change Order – Ridgewood Water New Facility
Ms. Mailander stated that Adamo Brothers Construction was awarded the contract for the new Ridgewood Water Facility on May 12, 2021. At this time, an additional $36,348.25 is needed for extra work including installation of studs and sheetrock on the lower level corridor, removal and reconstruction of stained glass panel for the façade that was discovered after demolition, and a new electric water heater. The funding is available in the Water Utility Operating Budget.
Upon questioning by Mayor Knudsen regarding the water heater, Mr. Calbi explained that they tried to preserve the existing water heater to save money. He subsequently learned that a 120-gallon water heater was necessary for the safety shower. This will be electric because there are no other gas fixtures in the building, and this electric heater is more energy efficient. The change order considers the cost of the new water heater as a credit for the gas line that was to be built for the existing water heater.
b. Parking
1.) Parking Permits
Ms. Mailander recalled that at a previous meeting it was decided that the price for parking permits would not change. The Village Council must decide if parking permits for non-residents will be the same price as parking permits for residents, and would both premium and non-premium permits be offered. A decision is also required on when the permits will be offered to non-residents. Ms. Mailander noted that there needs to be a consensus in time for permits being sold in December.
Councilwoman Reynolds said that she doesn’t think people will return to work in great numbers in 2022; therefore, she suggested keeping the cost the same for the yearly pass. Ms. Mailander said that those not purchasing a yearly pass because they are unsure that they will return to their work place could buy a daily pass for $10 as needed. Mayor Knudsen recommended keeping the process simple and moving forward with parking passes price remaining the same. She said that it is important to fill the garage at this point.
Ms. Mailander asked if the Village should sell parking passes to residents in December, and then open the sale up to nonresidents in January. Councilman Sedon indicated his agreement with Ms. Mailander’s recommendation for this year. The Village Council can re-visit the situation this time next year.
Councilwoman Perron questioned the parking permit prices. Ms. Mailander said it is $1,325 for a premium pass, and $1,000 for a non-premium pass. She noted that the lots on Prospect Street and Chestnut Street are not commuter parking lots. Councilmembers agreed to the sale of passes to non-residents beginning in mid-January.
2.) Grab and Go Parking Spaces
Ms. Mailander explained that these are fifteen-minute complimentary parking spaces located at the ends of East Ridgewood Avenue, which have been in effect for two, six month periods. The spaces are used for parking when picking up food from a restaurant or running a quick errand. Ms. Mailander stressed that these spots are for 15-minute use exclusively. She proposed extending this initiative from November 1st to April 30th. The spaces are sponsored and signs noting the sponsors of each particular space are displayed.
Councilwoman Reynolds asked if there were enough sponsors and Ms. Mailander indicated that there are. She added that Mr. Rooney recommends that this practice continue through the end of April. Mayor Knudson agreed that this is a good plan to continue through the winter months. She questioned whether or not people would stay downtown longer if they had to pay for parking. Councilman Sedon suggested that Traffic Enforcement collect this data and report to the Council. Councilwoman Perron commented that this is a great way to welcome visitors into Ridgewood.
3.) Holiday Parking in Central Business District
Ms. Mailander recalled that during Saturdays in December over the past several years, parking in the lots in Ridgewood has been free. She asked the Councilmembers if they want to continue this practice in December of 2021. The dates would be December 4th, 11th and 18th. She stated that this promotes goodwill and encourages shopping and dining in the downtown area.
Mayor Knudsen said that she has heard that the free spaces in the lots are primarily full of business employees. Councilwoman Reynolds suggested that they allow free parking on Saturdays in the parking garage only in order to promote the parking garage. Ms. Mailander said that in this case people would be restricted to parking on the second and third floors. Mayor Knudsen said that this might be too complicated to enforce.
After more discussion, Councilman Sedon said he thought parking at the garage is a good idea because it advertises the fact that Ridgewood has a parking garage and the location of the garage. This could increase future revenue from the parking garage. He suggested that parking on the first three floors be free. Councilwoman Reynolds agreed with this idea and she added that many people from out of town don’t even know Ridgewood has a parking garage and many who do, don’t know where it is located. She suggested that free parking should be offered on December 11th and 18th on the first three floors of the garage.
Councilwoman Reynolds recommended free parking on the second, third and fourth floors of the garage. The first floor would be paid parking to accommodate parking turnover. Councilman Sedon reiterated that this is free advertising for the garage, and it is worth the loss of some revenue in order to promote the garage.
Mayor Knudsen stated that Councilmembers are in agreement to allow free parking on the second, third and fourth floor of the parking garage on the first three Saturdays in December. She stressed the importance of proper signage.
c. Budget
1.) Budget Transfer Resolution
Ms. Mailander explained that this is an annual resolution that transfers money from departments with additional funding to departments needing additional funding. Councilwoman Perron questioned the transfer to the Fire Department for salary and wages which are predictable and budgeted. Ms. Mailander explained that the Fire Department settled their contract and the transfer was to cover two years of retroactive salaries as well as additional firefighter stipends through negotiations.
2.) Shared Services Agreement – Cosmetology Inspections Norwood
Ms. Mailander stated that this is a Shared Services Agreement to cover cosmetology inspections. This is the second year that the ordinance has been in effect in Ridgewood and includes nail and hair salons. The cost is $38 per hour and $57 for after hours. The inspections take approximately four days to complete. The Council agreed to move forward with this Shared Services Agreement.
3.) Award Professional Services – Public Health and Nursing Services
Ms. Mailander stated that this is an annual resolution through Valley Community Health and includes communicable disease investigations, child health clinics, adult health clinics, school audits and influenza clinics. The cost to the Village is $12,240, which is a 1% hourly increase for nursing hours from last year. The hourly charge for public health nurses is $51 per hour. Valley Community Health bills the Village for hours used which usually averages under $10,000. Ms. Mailander pointed out that Valley Health also provides health education services including the annual weight loss challenge in March and the Wellness Festival at no charge.
4.) Award Contract – Ford Escape for Building Department
Ms. Mailander stated that in the 2021 Capital Budget funds were allocated for a replacement vehicle for the Building Department and would cover the cost of one Ford Escape. Quotes were solicited and the lowest responsible bid was from Route 23 Auto Mall in Butler, N.J. at a cost not to exceed $27,498.
Councilwoman Perron asked for a price quote to be provided for the Ford Escape hybrid and the Ford Escape plug-in hybrid. Councilwoman Reynolds said that the price would be an additional $5,000 approximately for the plug in. Councilwoman Perron said that they have an obligation to consider these vehicles in light of the climate crisis.
Mayor Knudson said that the department would have to be consulted since these hybrid vehicles are sometimes not the best choice because of the application. Ms. Mailander indicated that she will have departments look at the feasibility of plug in or hybrid vehicles when the 2022 budget is discussed. Councilwoman Reynolds said that the hybrids are more expense; however, there will be some savings on gas. Councilman Sedon said that there is the cost of electricity to consider. Electricity is not free and pollution is generated from electric power plants.
Mayor Knudsen said there is the additional problem of where to park these vehicles. Ms. Mailander agreed stating that the Village is not set up for a fleet of hybrid or electric cars at the moment. She recommended going with the low bid and the Village could begin to look at the infrastructure needed for electric vehicles in the near future.
Councilman Sedon noted that the cost of the vehicle was approved in the 2021 budget and he suggested looking at hybrid vehicles in the 2022 budget. These decisions will not be easy because the Village needs the charging infrastructure which will be a Capital expense. Councilmembers agreed to proceed with the purchase of the Ford Escape.
5.) Award Bid –Landscaping and Finishing of Berm – Zabriskie-Schedler House
Ms. Mailander stated that the Village received seven bids from eligible registered plan holders for construction of the berm at the Schedler property. The work also consists of tree clearing, curbs and sidewalks, the driveway apron, seed, fence installation, a guide rail along Route 17, grates, water valves, fire hydrants, irrigation lines, sprinkler heads and the installation of evergreen trees and other smaller items. The lowest bid was received from OnQue Technologies, of Oradell, N.J., with a quote of $375,255. Ms. Mailander pointed out that the low bidder submitted a complete bid package with all necessary information and has worked for the Village several times in the past. Ms. Mailander indicated that the project will be funded from various Capital Budget Ordinances for the Schedler site.
Councilwoman Reynolds questioned the installation and size of boulders and rock on the Route 17 area of the berm. Christopher Rutishauser, Village Engineer, said that there will be four to five feet of high stacked rocks that will follow the slope of the berm. Red rocks from the site will be used along with other rocks consistent with the foundation of the house. He confirmed that there will be a mixture of the two types of rocks.
Councilwoman Reynolds suggested using wood chip mulch to prevent weed growth on the berm. Mr. Rutishauser agreed stating that four inches of mulch will be supplied by the Village. He stated specifically that wood chips would be used, and not compost, which does promote weed growth. Councilwoman Reynolds suggested using Treflon directly to prevent the germination of weeds. Mr. Rutishauser said he would solicit the cost of this material from the low bidder. Councilman Sedon did not want this quote to halt construction of the berm, and Mr. Rutishauser said that the work can be scheduled to begin without this information. The work will begin with the water main that will be overseen by the historic archeologist. If approved, a report will be made to SHPO to guide the Engineering Department with final developmental plans.
Mayor Knudson asked about the elevation of the berm. Mr. Rutishauser explained that the berm will be a trapezoid shape that will be made using a small bulldozer. Councilwoman Perron asked about the parking and driveway area. Mr. Rutishauser explained that the cost of these items will be added to the bids later as needed. He said that the pipe or water main is the biggest part of the cost at $97,000. Proper irrigation is essential for irrigation of the trees, shrubs, etc. and the fire hydrant is important so that the Fire Department will be able to respond to any incidents on Route 17. Councilwoman Perron questioned whether the water main is supplying water to the house. Mr. Rutishauser said that the water main is mainly for irrigation the berm, but it could be used for a rest room facility.
Councilwoman Perron asked when the area would be useable by the public. Mr. Rutishauser said that when the water main work is complete the park could only be used for passive walking because there will be no parking and no specific walking paths. Mayor Knudsen said that the park will have a much greater use when the final site development is incorporated into a plan, which will be approved by SHPPO. This has been stated in an email from SHPO; however, this explanation must be received in letter form. Mr. Rutishauser noted that SHPO wants the house to remain in an agricultural type setting without parking. A type of buffer has been proposed between the playing field and the home; however, another plan will not be submitted until the archeologist’s findings have been received.
Councilwoman Reynolds reiterated that there are presently weeds on the berm and she asked when the trees would be planted. Mr. Rutishauser explained that the earth berm had to be hydro seeded as per Bergen County Soil Conservation District. The weeds will be removed before anything is planted and the nursery is proposing white spruce trees which must be approved by the Council. He said that the trees will be planted on top of the berm and on the inside base.
6.) Award Co-Op Purchase – Aerial Vehicle (Drones) Program
Ms. Mailander stated that the purchase of a drone and other accessories is under a Bergen County contract to Terrestrial Imaging, LLC, of Brick, N.J., not to exceed $7,940.92. This item is in the Police Department Capital Budget and includes extra batteries, cable, launch pad, charging station, and a thermal camera etc. It can be used to search for missing people and those committing robberies, as well as for events such as July 4th, Downtown for the Holidays, High School graduation and the Memorial Day run.
Mayor Knudsen asked if special licensing or training was necessary to operate the drone. Ms. Mailander said there is some training needed. She will research the cost of the training and report back to the Council. Councilwoman Perron asked if the drone would be useful for the Fire Department. Ms. Mailander wasn’t sure and will check with Fire Chief Van Goor. At one time, there was some interest from the Water Department; however, Mr. Calbi has now indicated he is not interested. Councilwoman Perron also asked Ms. Mailander to look into the possibility of a warranty.
7.) Additional Award – Environmental Technical Support for Hudson Street Garage Project Closeout
Ms. Mailander recalled that the Village dealt with contaminated soils when the footings for the garage were dug, as well as the structural soil for the Hudson Street tree wells. Assistance was provided by First Environmental, who provided a licensed site remediation professional. They have submitted a proposal in the amount of $7,000.00, to close out the environmental items for the garage. Ms. Mailander said that funding was available in the garage funding account, and Mr. Rooney will be in contact with First Environmental for additional information. If the information is not available for next week’s meeting, this item will have to be carried until December.
Councilwoman Perron questioned the contaminants in the soil and Mr. Rutishauser explained that there were various hydrocarbons contained in the soil. The soil was transported to a DEP disposal site and the Village has the paperwork stating that the soil was disposed of properly. There is a small amount of residual contaminant remaining in the soil, which is the reason for a deed restriction. An institutional barrier also known as a concrete slab was constructed as a barrier. Mr. Rutishauser explained that the law requires that the work be done by a licensed remediation professional.
8.) Award Change Order – Crossing Guard Services
Ms. Mailander stated that during the 2020-2021 school year, there were several occasions when the schools had two different dismissal times, which meant that the crossing guards had to remain at their posts to cover both times resulting in unexpected additional working hours. The cost for the additional time is $15,121.92 and this funding comes from the Police Department Operating Budget.
Mayor Knudsen said that police officers were also covering for crossing guards. She asked if an analysis had been done relative to the actual cost per hour/per officer. Ms. Mailander said that the company pays a set amount that is noted in the contract and she will get more information on the differential.
9.) Award Second Year Contract – Concession Refreshment Services Graydon Pool
Ms. Mailander stated that this award went to Michael Sims, Mellsworth Foods in 2021, with an optional second year in 2022. There has been an excellent history with this vendor and it is recommended to continue in 2022. The vendor pays the Village $10,000 to be at Graydon Pool.
d. Policy
1.) Removed from Agenda – Planting Strips along West Glen Avenue
This item has been removed from the agenda.
2.) Removed from Agenda - Tree Ordinance
Ms. Mailander said that the new tree ordinance should be ready for the December agenda
3.) Days and Hours for Pickleball
Ms. Mailander stated that the previous sixty days expired in October. She reviewed the hours at the Glen pickleball courts: Sunday 11:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M.; Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 9:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M.; and Saturday 10:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. There is no play on Monday or Friday. The Bellair Tennis Courts have been retrofitted for pickleball on Monday and Tuesday from 8:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. Ms. Mailander asked for a decision relative to the hours and days of play regarding pickleball.
Mayor Knudsen said that days of play and hours should remain the same. Councilwoman Perron stated that she appreciates the opinions of all of the neighbors and noted that non-residents are no longer allowed to use the pickleball courts. She has visited the Courts and doesn’t find the noise to be loud. She said the pickleball hours should be the same as the tennis court hours.
Councilman Sedon suggested that Nancy Bigos, and the Parks and Recreation Department, should make recommendations about sound mitigation as well as hours of play. He acknowledged that no one will ever be happy with the situation. Ms. Mailander said she had received a memo from Parks and Recreation Department that included suggestions on panels, muted balls and prohibiting non-residents from using the courts. She said that the Parks and Recreation Department have tried to address the problem, but neighbors in close proximity to the courts will always hear sound coming from the courts. She agreed that the ball seems to be of a high pitch, which some neighbors could find disturbing.
Councilwoman Reynolds said that there is a recommendation that pickleball courts should be at least 500 feet from a residence. The Village Council made a mistake when it approved the pickleball courts and Parks and Recreation Department should have done a more thorough investigation. She said that another location should be considered even if it will cost more money.
Mayor Knudsen stated that even if non-residents are not allowed to play, those slots will soon be filled by other players who are residents. She pointed out that the Village always notifies residents when parking is changed on a residential street; or sidewalks are added such as in the case of West Glen Avenue. In this case however, the Village did not notify the neighbors of this significant and impactful change. Mayor Knudsen said she and Councilwoman Walsh spent a considerable amount of time working on what she thought was a compromise with the neighbors; however, she now regrets the outcome. The Council made a mistake in not fully informing the entire neighborhood, and the Parks and Recreation Department needs to look at other locations for pickleball courts in addition to sound mitigation. Councilwoman Reynolds agreed that mitigation is needed and she suggested additional or overlapping sound blankets. Councilman Sedon said more research is needed and he suggested moving to add more panels. He agreed that non-residents should not be able to purchase badges.
Ms. Mailander said that badges will be on sale for 2022 in December or January. She reviewed Councilmember’s comments stating that no badges will be sold to non-residents and that the pickleball courts will operate on the same days and hours as present.
Mayor Knudsen said that some have commented that there is no enforcement of the prohibitions at the courts. Councilman Sedon suggested selling badges similar to those in hotels with a type of locking mechanism so that non-residents could not access the courts.
Ms. Mailander will review the suggestions with Nancy Bigos, Director of Parks and Recreation. She will also ask Ms. Bigos if anything further could be done to mitigate the sound at the pickleball courts, and the possibility of a locking feature on the badge.
6. REVIEW OF NOVEMBER 10, 2021 PUBLIC MEETING AGENDA
Ms. Mailander reviewed the agenda for the November 10th, 2021 meeting. There are no proclamations and no ordinances for introduction for Ridgewood Water. There is a public hearing on the Water Utility Improvements Due to Damage from Hurricane Ida. Resolutions for Ridgewood Water include Title 59 Approval and Award Contract for Servicing and Repair of Potable Water Pumping Facilities; Title 59 Approval and Award Contract for Servicing and Repair of Electrical Source; Award Contract Under National Cooperative Purchasing Alliance Contract for Security Cameras and Access Control System for New Ridgewood Water Headquarters; Authorize Additional Award Under Bergen County Cooperative Purchasing Program Contract – Bituminous Concrete and Various Road Repair Materials; Award Contract for Asbestos Abatement at 451 Goffle Road; and Authorize Change Order for Ridgewood Water New Facility.
Ms. Mailander stated that the introduction of Ordinances includes: Establishing Standards for Electric Vehicle Charging Spaces in New Developments; 2021 Non-Union Salary Ordinance; and Revised Ordinance for Parking Permits for Non-Residents. Ordinance for Public Hearings include: Bond Ordinance for Various Capital Improvements due to Damage Done by Hurricane Ida; Amend Chapter 165 – Garbage, Rubbish, Refuse and Recycling – Definitions of Bulk Refuse; and Amend Chapter 165 – Garbage, Rubbish, Refuse and Recycling – Container Specifications and Setout Requirements.
Ms. Mailander said that resolutions will include: Award Contract for Ford Escape (Building Department) and look into Hybrid and Plug In Vehicles; Award Contract – Village Council Meeting Production Services; Title 59 Approval and Award Contract for Concession Refreshment Services for Graydon Pool; Title 59 Approval and Award Contract for Schedler Property Berm Construction; Award Contract Under Bergen County Contract for Drones and have Police Department look into other requested items; Award Professional Services Contract – Archaeological Survey for Zabriskie-Schedler House; Award Professional Services Contract - Valley Hospital, Department of Community Health and Community Benefit – Public Health and Nursing Services; Authorize Shared Services Agreement for Cosmetology Inspections (Norwood); Authorize Change Order for Environmental Technical Support for Hudson Street Garage Project Closeout; Authorize Change Order – Crossing Guard Services; Authorize Change Order – Tree Removals – West Glen Avenue Sidewalk Project; Authorize 2021 Budget Transfers; Approve West Glen Avenue Pedestrian Safety Improvements; Approve Municipal Alliance Grant Application; Accept Donation for Tree Well Refurbishment in Central Business District; Accept Donation for Benches in Central Business District and Public Library; Authorize Continuation of Grab and Go Parking Spaces; Authorize Continuation of Dining Corrals Extension to December 31, 2021; Approve 2021 Holiday Parking Plan in Central Business District; Release Escrowed Funds and Irrevocable Letter of Credit for Chestnut Village, LLC; Accept 2020 Audit; Approve 2020 Corrective Action Plan; Establishing Days and Hours for Pickleball for the Glen School Pickleball Courts; and Authorize Reimbursement of Cost for Zoning Board of Adjustment Application.
7. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Mayor Knudsen stated that they again would hear comments from the public, and asked anyone wishing to address the Village Council to come forward.
Rurik Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, referred to the weeds on the berm at the Schedler property and said that no matter what is done there is no way to prevent the growth of weeds. He had suggested to Mr. Rutishauser that the surface area covered by the berm should be calculated and Mr. Halaby guessed that the berm probably covers 10% of the seven acres. Mr. Halaby noted the many times when appropriations and spending relative to the Schedler property was discussed. He said that at no time is less money spent than is appropriated, and when a specific project goes over budget, it is always blamed on the previous administration. He pointed out that Village funds, County funds and State funds are all coming from the Ridgewood taxpayers.
Mr. Halaby stated that the Mayor and Councilmembers must be stopped from influencing Robert Rooney, Village CFO, relative to the presentation of the data in order to reflect well on Councilmembers. He said that this is a violation of the Faulkner Act. He added that rather than spending money on a drone, the Council should allocate money to improve the Village website.
Judy Mac, 330 Eastbrook Road, recalled that a pickleball player stated previously that there were at least five locations to play pickleball in the Village. She noted that she and the other neighbors only have one home and she asked the Council to consider that fact. It is unfair and irresponsible for Councilmembers to stop by the pickleball courts from time to time and decide that the noise is negligible. She reminded Councilmembers that their home is an escape from work and other daily stresses.
Lillian Blood, 250 North Maple Avenue, spoke about pickleball and said that there is not a constant banging of the balls when they play. She said that the Village spent $50,000 on the courts and they should be used. She often drives by in the afternoons and there is no one on the courts. She agreed that a group of players along with Councilmembers and Ms. Bigos should get together to see if some things could be improved. Ms. Blood invited Councilmembers to come to the courts in order to listen to and watch them play to get a better idea of the situation.
Hans-Jürgen Lehman, 234 Union Avenue, spoke regarding Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney. He demanded to know his exact salary and how he would account to the Village Manager. He asked how the taxpayers of Ridgewood could learn about Mr. Rogers work product since they can no longer OPRA his records. Mr. Lehman said he finds it puzzling that the Council is comfortable with an arrangement that is not transparent.
Simon Lee, 321 Eastbrook Road, referred to pickleball and pointed out that there are times when pickleball is continuously played. He is angry and frustrated because he would like to enjoy his backyard and a relocation of the pickleball courts appears to be the best solution for everyone involved.
No one else came forward and Mayor Knudsen closed the time for public comment.
Mayor Knudsen referred to an earlier comment about a violation of the Faulkner Act. Ms. Mailander explained that if a Councilmember wants to speak to a Village employee they must first ask her permission to do so. Therefore, she has no concerns about violating the Faulkner Act. Mayor Knudsen referred to appropriations at the Schedler property and said she had suggested that Mr. Rooney prepared a more easily understood document.
9. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION
Ms. Young read Resolution #21-325 to go into Closed Session as follows:
10. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Sedon, seconded by Councilwoman Perron, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 9:55 P.M.
_________________________________ Susan Knudsen Mayor
_____________________________ Eileen Young Deputy Village Clerk
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