20211201 - 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 DECEMBER 1, 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 7:37 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/Deputy 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.
- SWEARING-IN OF COUNCILMAN PAUL VAGIANOS
a. Reading of Certificate of Election of Paul Vagianos – Heather A. Mailander, Village Manager/Deputy Village Clerk
Ms. Mailander read the Certificate of Election of Paul Vagianos.
b. Oath of Office Administered to Paul Vagianos by Mayor Susan Knudson
Paul Vagianos was sworn in as a Councilmember by Mayor Knudsen who administered the Oath of Office.
c. Remarks by Councilman Vagianos
Councilman Vagianos thanked everyone who has supported him over the past few months. He had considered running for a seat on the Village Council for some time. He is very excited and thanked his fellow Councilmembers along with staff at Village Hall for their warm welcomes. He stated that he is happy to be able to contribute and hopes to do great things together with the other Councilmembers.
Councilwoman Perron said that she enjoyed working with Councilman Vagianos on behalf of the Chamber of Commerce and in the Green Restaurant Initiative. He has a lot of energy and is willing to think outside the box. The residents and businesses in Ridgewood are lucky to have him.
Councilwoman Reynolds said that this will be a great relationship and she looks forward to working with Councilman Vagianos.
Councilman Sedon told Councilman Vagianos to be prepared for some marathon meetings in the New Year.
Mayor Knudsen stated that this is a great opportunity to bring a new perspective to the Council that has been lacking. She wished Councilman Vagianos good luck.
d. Roll Call of New Village Council – Heather A. Mailander, Village Manager/ Village Clerk
At roll call, the following were present: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen.
Mayor Knudsen acknowledged a new business on Ridgewood Avenue, Borobabi, which has a fabulous product.
- COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Mayor Knudsen asked if there were any comments or questions from the public.
Randy Carson, 817 E. Ridgewood Avenue, stated he is part owner of the Park West Tavern in Ridgewood. He said that he supports the dining corrals, which have allowed his restaurant to meet the demand for outdoor dining. The corrals have accounted for 75% of their business during the warmer months and Park West has been able to employ an additional fifteen to twenty people who are paid well above minimum wage. COVID has changed many things including the profit margin and the Village Council’s continued support of the dining corrals will help to continue a positive trend. Mr. Carson believes that the corrals have been a driving force of traffic into the Village to the benefit of all downtown businesses. Mr. Carson hopes that the corrals will be allowed to remain and provide stability in these ever changing times.
Glen Carlough, 200 Dayton Street, owner of the Steel Wheel Tavern, thanked the Mayor and Council for all they have done to help the Central Business District during the heart of the pandemic. The dining corrals have been a life line for restaurants in the Village. Mr. Carlough noted that some people want the corrals to be removed in order to get life back to normal, but today New Jersey announced its first omicron case. He believes that we will be dealing with COVID for the foreseeable future and there should be as many outdoor dining options as possible because there will always be people who want to dine outdoors for health reasons, and those people with comorbidities who only have the option of outdoor dining. The practice of outdoor dining is working successfully and should be adopted as the new normal. Mr. Carlough reiterated that the customers love alfresco dining and they are a revenue booster for all those involved especially tipped employees. The added area allows for Mr. Carlough to employ even more Ridgewood High School students than normal.
Mr. Carlough said he has hired a landscape firm to develop renderings for consideration by the Village Council. He had the information with him and available for their review and consideration. He encouraged Councilmembers to make a decision on the corrals in the summer based on what they look like at that time. He acknowledged that many people make the argument that the corrals cause parking issues because 24 spaces have been dedicated to the corrals; however, this is less than 10% of the spaces recently added in the garage. He noted that there are countless other spaces available in various Village parking lots. Mr. Carlough concluded that dining corrals are a win-win and a revenue stream for Village businesses.
Bob Upton, 172 West Glen Avenue, commented that residents at the top of the hill on West Glen Avenue where the work on the sidewalks has begun did not think they had been given adequate notice that work was about to begin. Mr. Upton added that their grievances are not being adequately addressed. He is located at the bottom of the hill where the issues dealing with retaining walls apply, and is concerned whether or not these residents will be consulted when the work begins. He recalled a meeting in June that included Christopher Rutishauser, Village Engineer, among others, when Mr. Rutishauser indicated that he would meet with individual residents rather than a meeting with all of the residents. Mr. Upton asked for reassurance that residents will be consulted before work commences to include a method of communication.
Mayor Knudsen stated that the Council is re-visiting the concept of dining corrals, which may be reconfigured. She spoke about the West Glen improvements and said that each individual location is different and will be looked at separately. The Village will make sure that everyone is comfortable moving forward and that adequate notice will be provided.
4. MANAGER’S REPORT
Ms. Mailander stated that the 36th Annual Downtown for the Holidays is Friday, December 3rd from 6:00 P.M. until 8:30 P.M. Village vehicles will be decorated in accordance with this year’s theme “Trucks for the Holiday” and the vehicles will be on display on both the east and west side of the Central Business District. There will be three Christmas trees located at Memorial Park at Van Neste Square; the intersection of South Broad Street and East Ridgewood Avenue; and another at the Train Station Parking Lot. There will be music and merriment on the streets during the evening of December 3rd and East Ridgewood Avenue will be closed to traffic from Maple Avenue to Broad Street beginning at 4:30 P.M. to create a pedestrian area.
Ms. Mailander encouraged children to visit Santa on December 4th at Columbia Bank, 60 South Broad Street from 10:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. He will be in residence at Santa’s House at Memorial Park at Van Neste Square on December 11th and December 18th from 12:00 noon until 2:00 P.M. Ms. Mailander said that on December 4th, 11th and 18th there will be free parking at the Hudson Street Parking Garage on the second, third and fourth floors from 10:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. There are three-hour time limits but there is no time limit after 6:00 P.M.
Cards of Joy is a program sponsored by the Ridgewood Stigma Free Committee with a deadline of December 15th. Colorful, creative, and decorative greeting cards with a heartfelt message are encouraged to be created. Cards will be distributed to older residents at Ridgecrest Senior Housing, SHARE Housing or New Bridge Medical Center. Cards wishing a wonderful holiday season can be dropped off at the Reception Desk in the lobby of Village Hall or the Special Mailbox at the Ridgewood Library. The goal is to collect 1,000 Cards of Joy to be distributed.
Ms. Mailander reported that the leaf collection is almost complete. Final leaf placement days are December 5th, 7th or 12th depending on the leaf pickup section.
Ms. Mailander stated that Robert Rooney, the Village CFO, will give a presentation on Municipal Budgeting on December 13th at 7:00 P.M. There will be a question, and answer period. Budget meetings will begin in late January or early February.
Ms. Mailander stated that Village offices and departments will be closed on December 23rd, 24th, and 31st to observe the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. She asked everyone to check the dates for garbage and recycling pickup on the Village calendar.
Ms. Mailander listed 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: January 5, 2022, and January 26, 2022, are Village Council Work Sessions beginning at 7:30; and December 8 2021, and January 12, 2022, are Village Council Public Meetings beginning at 8:00 P.M.
4. VILLAGE COUNCIL REPORTS
Central Business District Advisory Committee: Councilwoman Perron stated that the Central Business District Advisory Committee met on November 11th and discussed the usage of the Hudson Street Parking Garage. In addition, various holiday ideas for 2022 were considered along with the Master Plan as it relates to the Central Business District.
Open Space Committee: Councilwoman Perron reported that the Open Space Committee met on November 18th. The Open Space Plan was discussed as well as potential uses for the Town Garage property on Franklin Avenue. Fred Jubitz gave an interesting tour of Habernickel Park on November 13th. Councilwoman Perron thanked Temple Israel for the 9th Annual Lighting of the Menorah.
Winterfest: Councilwoman Perron thanked The Guild for this creative event.
Chamber of Commerce: Councilwoman Perron said that the Chamber of Commerce will not meet in December. She encouraged everyone to attend Downtown for the Holidays which will be even better than last year.
Green Ridgewood: Councilwoman Perron stated that Green Ridgewood meets tomorrow along with the Green Team via Zoom. She asked anyone from the public interested in environmental ideas to join the meeting. Those interested can contact either her or Councilman Sedon for information relative to the link for the meeting tomorrow at 7:00 P.M.
Councilwoman Perron encouraged anyone interested in the functioning of the Council to attend the meeting with Robert Rooney on December 13th. She said she recently attended the New Jersey League of Municipalities convention which is a three-day learning experience. She learned a lot about public/private partnerships and the State’s climate initiative and how local government will be affected. There was information on how COVID is affecting insurance rates. Councilwoman Perron found information on vehicle fleet electrification very interesting. The information included the concept of EV tourism and how EV charging stations in a downtown area make it very attractive to visitors.
Green Team: Councilman Sedon reiterated that the Green Team is meeting tomorrow via Zoon with Green Ridgewood.
Shade Tree Commission: Councilman Sedon said the Shade Tree Commission is meeting on December 14th. He reported that trees have been planted in the downtown area and everything worked out very well. He thanked Mayor Knudsen and Mr. Rooney, as well as the Shade Tree Commission who have worked for a number of years to finally begin to get this work done.
The Elder Dinner: Councilman Sedon reported that over one hundred meals were distributed to older residents. He thanked the Community Center Advisory Committee Board, Janet Fricke, Councilwoman Perron, the Civic Youth Corps, and Age Friendly Ridgewood for their efforts. Councilman Sedon hopes that everyone will be able to gather again next year for the event.
Councilwoman Perron thanked the Ridgewood AM Rotary Club for the Trail Maintenance Event on Saturday. The volunteers laid 100 cubic yards of wood chips to refurbish the trail around Twinney’s Pond and they were assisted by Project Interac students. She thanked Vic DeCarlo and Scot Dellheim, two Parks Department employees, who were a great help.
Veterans Day: Councilman Sedon stated that the Veteran’s Day ceremony was held on November 11th at Van Neste Square. He thanked American Legion Post 53 for coordinating the event.
Planning Board: Councilwoman Reynolds reported that the Planning Board met on November 16th, and Tasko Enterprises was on the agenda for the memorialization of the resolution. There were some changes in the resolution relative to tree covering on the property. The applicants were absent, and the item will be continued at the next meeting. The Planning Board reviewed Ordinance 3878, Chapter 190 “Hospital District”, which was introduced and passed on first reading at a Special Public Meeting of the Village Council on October 27th. The Planning Board agreed with the changes and it will be considered for final passage on December 8th at the Council Public Meeting. The next Planning Board meeting is December 7th.
Citizens Safety Advisory Committee: The Citizens Safety Advisory Committee met on November 18th. There was a discussion about the sidewalks being installed between West Glen Avenue and Heights Road. There will be a four-foot grassy area installed between the curb and sidewalk where the work is currently being done.
Councilwoman Reynolds stated that the Committee would like to have Smart Street New Jersey banners hung in the CBD to help with safety concerns. The banner designs will be presented to the Village Council for approval in the future.
Councilwoman Reynolds stated that a presentation for a parking guide map for Board of Education and recreation fields was well received at a Federated Board Meeting. The agency’s liaison Mary McCalley will do the necessary coordination to get this done. Charlie DeMarco was unanimously voted in as Chairman for CSAC for 2022. Councilwoman Reynolds announced the next meeting on December 16th.
Parks and Recreation Committee: Councilman Vagianos said he met with the Parks and Recreation Committee yesterday evening. Their concerns centered on the diminished tree canopy and the status of the Schedler property. Councilman Vagianos said he wasn’t sure about the Schedler property and he met with Mr. Rutishauser and Heather Mailander today. They provided a compressive report about the status, and he will report back to the Committee at the next meeting.
Feed the Front Lines: Councilman Vagianos said that this organization feeds over 9,000 people a week. The organization is always looking for more drivers and he asked people to sign up at the website.
Mayor’s Wellness Campaign: Mayor Knudsen has signed the annual Pledge of Participation for the Mayor’s Wellness Campaign to encourage healthy lifestyles and positive living.
Beauty Salon Club: Mayor Knudsen said that the Beauty Salon Club recently celebrated their new location. The business has moved from the north side of Ridgewood Avenue to south side of Ridgewood Avenue across from their former location. The salon has expanded and now offers gift and boutique items and she wished them good luck.
Annual Thanksgiving Service: Mayor Knudsen reported that on November 23rd Ridgewood Interfaith held its annual Thanksgiving Service at Emanuel Baptist Church. The online service included live and pre-recorded members of the interfaith community. Mayor Knudsen read the annual proclamation regarding the Village and the Village Council.
Menorah Lighting: Mayor Knudsen spoke about the annual Menorah Lighting which took place on Sunday. The event was attended by a large and enthusiastic crowd and she thanked Temple Israel and everyone who attended.
Bergen County Winter Wonderland at Van Saun Park: Mayor Knudsen stated that this event will begin this Sunday. She said that Fire Chief Van Goor joined her in selecting and decorating Ridgewood’s Winter Wonderland tree. She said that each municipality is invited to decorate a tree, which is given to the municipality at the end of the event and that tree is subsequently planted in the Village.
Planning Board: Mayor Knudsen announced that the Tasko application is carried to Tuesday evening. The Board will be reviewing the electric vehicle ordinance and there will be a public hearing on the preliminary reinvestigation for the Valley Hospital property as an area in need of redevelopment. She encouraged everyone to participate in this meeting.
5. PRESENTATION
a. The Land Conservancy of New Jersey – Open Space Plan Update and Environmental Resource Inventory
Barbara Huskins Davis, Vice President of Programs at the Land Conservancy of New Jersey, introduced herself and added that she is a licensed planner. Ms. Davis said she will present information relative to the Open Space and Recreation Plan Update and the Environmental Resource Inventory, which the Land Conservancy has been hired to complete. She recognized members of the Open Space Committee and the Green Team. Ms. Davis said that previous plans were completed in 2010 and in 2003. The Open Space Plan has to be current every ten years to be consistent with the Municipal Land Use Law in order to qualify the municipality for funding with the State. Ms. Davis recalled that the voters voted to enact an Open Space Trust Fund in 2001, and the Village dedicated a half cent for every $100 of assessed property value to Open Space. Ms. Davis explained that the Land Conservancy will be coordinating with Heyer Gruel, the Village’s Master Planners to ensure the consistency of the documents.
Ms. Davis reiterated that the Open Space Recreation Plan must be updated to qualify for funding from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Green Acres Program to purchase and preserve property. Green Acres has several programs such as land acquisition and land development as well as a new program for land stewardship. There are two different land acquisition programs with one being site specific, and the other being planning incentive. The Planning Initiative program is meant to award municipalities that self-tax for open space, and have an open space and recreation plan which explains the reasons why the Village would want to acquire land. This results in a matching grant of 50% for any of the properties identified in the plan and is meant to be easy, flexible and quick.
Ms. Davis briefly reviewed a series of sections contained in the plan. These plans can be creative and can help the Village move forward. The Open Space Committee has the responsibility of overseeing the plan and the open space that is available with the land with other committees within the Village. The goals of the Open Space Program are an outline of why open space should be purchased and preserved. Ms. Davis stated that the Open Space Goals for 2021 are to preserve and enhance existing open space; identify areas where open space can be connected through greenways or blue ways; energize and activate the Open Space program by strategically identifying properties that will provide the best value for recreation and to ensure that there are enough parks and playgrounds for the community with easy access.
Ms. Davis described Ridgewood as a walkable community with tree lined streets and beautiful parks along with a vibrant downtown, which will benefit from the Open Space program. The Open Space Committee has a goal to manage the open space land for the health of the eco-system while trying to control the spread of invasive plants and control deer within the parks and open space. It is important to consider how the open space enhances the downtown business district. Ms. Davis pointed out that an Open Space Program can work to enhance the feel of an accessible, green and busy downtown district.
Ms. Davis spoke about the three sections of the plan. She said that this is the first of two public meetings required by Green Acres. The second meeting will occur after the plan has been written and reviewed by the various Boards in the Village and then reviewed as part of the Master Plan. The history of the Open Space Program consists of the following: how much money has been collected; what has the money been used for; and how has the money been leveraged. The State requires an inventory of the Open Space including park locations and private recreation facilities. Green Acres has provided slightly under $300,000 in grants, mostly for acquisition for Grove Park and Habernickel Family Park.
Ms. Davis stated that the Open Space and Recreation Plan will provide an overview of recreational resources within the municipality including field locations, walking, and gardening areas, and the locations of these facilities. The plan will look at trends and program participation. The historic and cultural resources within the Village will be mapped and identified. The plan will undertake a review of existing planning documentation and she will work with Heyer Gruel to make sure that the two documents are consistent. Ms. Davis indicated that there will be a series of recommendations provided along with an action program covering short, mid and long term goals.
Ms. Davis stated that they have worked with the Open Space Committee to update the goals of the Village and have almost completed reviewing income and expenditure. Mapping is underway and action items will be identified with the Open Space Committee, followed by the submission of a draft report for municipal review. The ultimate goal is for the Planning Board to adopt this plan as an element of the Master Plan and for the plan to be submitted to Green Acres.
Ms. Davis said that the Conservancy has been hired to work on the Environmental Resource Inventory, which is a scientific report identifying the location of natural resources; cultural sites; transportation hubs; and how they all work together. The report is based on the best available scientific data and includes land use; stormwater and flooding; known contaminated sites; historic and cultural resources; infrastructure; geology and topography; soils; wetlands; vegetation; wildlife; and climate and air. There is a new emphasis on climate resiliency which will be included in the Master Plan. Ms. Davis described the maps as the vehicle by which the information is communicated and depicted.
Ms. Davis stated that the Environmental Resource Inventory compliments the Master Plan and can be used to aid and support grant applications for different land acquisitions. It will provide guidance to the Planning Board and the Village Council to allow for a more informed decision-making process.
Councilmembers complimented Ms. Davis on her concise and comprehensive presentation. Mayor Knudsen questioned how the historic and cultural resources integrate into the Open Space Plan Update and Environmental Resources Inventory. Ms. Davis said she would work closely with the representative who is looking at the historic preservation element of the Master Plan. Mayor Knudsen will provide the contact information for Dianne O’Brian, a Planning Board Member, who is working on the historic element.
Mayor Knudsen said she would open the meeting for public comment and questions of Ms. Davis.
Ralph Curry, 260 Woodside Avenue, said he is a member of the Open Space Committee. He thanked the Mayor and Council as well as the Village Manager for engaging the Land Conservancy to do this work. He is grateful to have the opportunity to work with Ms. Davis and her staff who are exceptionally qualified.
Mayor Knudsen said that this is an exciting time for the Village, and she is eagerly awaiting a final document in a few months. She added that the Village is mapping a path for the future and for future generations.
6. DISCUSSION
a. Ridgewood Water
1.) Award Second Year Sole Source Contract – Software Support SCADA
Ms. Mailander referred to the Renewal Advice Summary for Emerson Process Management Power and Water Solutions, who are the only supplier and provider of the software used for Ridgewood Water’s Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system. SCADA is an invaluable tool for operating the system and troubleshooting problems. Ridgewood Water has had the current system in place since 1992.
Ms. Mailander said that this is a three-year contract subject to annual renewal every January from 2022 through December of 2024. The total contract price is $59,607.35, that is billed in increments of $19,869.12 per year. Funds will be available contingent on the Village Council appropriating the temporary budget for 2022.
2.) Award Contract – Furnishing and Delivering Sodium Hypochlorite Solution
Ms. Mailander said that on November 3, 2021, the Village Water Department received two bids for the furnishing and delivering of sodium hypochlorite solution. The lowest bidder was PVS Minibulk, Inc., of Detroit, Michigan. This substance is similar to household bleach and is effective at killing waterborne bacteria and viruses. The price is $1.68 per gallon, and the contract requires renewal on an annual basis. The contract is in an amount not to exceed $84,000 per year.
3.) Award Contract – Pipes, Appurtenances and Service Materials
Ms. Mailander reported that one bid proposal was received for the furnishing of pipe, appurtenances and service materials. These materials are necessary to facilitate repairs and replacements for the water system. The items will be ordered as needed. It is recommended to award the bid on a per unit basis to Core & Main of Edison, N.J. Funding is in the Water Utility budget and the Water Utility Capital budget and the amount is not to exceed $415,000.
Mr. Calbi explained that there were no bids on the brass section, and that section along with a few others will be rebid.
4.) Award Contract – Line Stop Valve Insertion Services
Ms. Mailander said that one bid was received for the Line Stop Valve Insertion Services of the four proposals that were picked up. Carner Brothers of Roseland, N.J., was the sole bidder and they have previously performed these services for the Water Utility in a professional manner. Line Stop and Valve Insertions are a specialized operation, and these services avoid long extended shutdowns and “Boil Water Notices”. This is the first year of a two-year contract in an amount not to exceed $200,000. Funds will be available contingent upon the Village Council appropriating the temporary budget for 2022 and subsequently adopting a 2022 budget to fund the full amount of the contract.
5.) Amend Change Order – Ridgewood Water New Facility
Ms. Mailander recalled that at the November 10, 2021 Public Meeting, the Village Council awarded a change order to Adamo Brothers Construction. The resolution contained a typographical error in the amount of the change order, the total for the change order was $36,345.25, not $31,800.00. It is recommended that Resolution 21-333 be rescinded and reapproved with the correct amount.
b. Parking – None
c. Budget
1.) Budget Transfer Resolution
Ms. Mailander stated that this is the annual Budget Transfer Resolution transferring money from departments with excess funds to those departments having insufficient funds.
2.) Establish 2022 Temporary Budget
Ms. Mailander said this is an annual resolution to establish 26.25% of the current year’s budget as a temporary budget for the following year until the actual budget is adopted. This is done in December in order for payroll to be processed and bills paid in January.
3.) Cancellation of Emergency Appropriations – Current Fund
Ms. Mailander recalled that as a result of damages incurred from Hurricane Ida, the Village was required to adopt a resolution for an Emergency Appropriation. This expedited the process for awarding contracts and paying personnel costs for overtime and equipment rental. On October 6, 2021, the Village Council adopted two resolutions, including one appropriating $1,828,900, and another in the amount of $75,000 for the Water Utility. There was another amount of $74,500 for the issuance of a Capital Ordinance. The Village also adopted a General Capital Ordinance in the amount of $1,564,500, and a Water Capital Ordinance for $75,000, to provide appropriations for qualifying storm related costs and to reduce the emergency appropriations for operating fees. The resolution for consideration this evening requests the Village Council to consider the cancellation of Emergency Appropriations in the General Fund in the amount of $1,564,500, and Water Utility Fund in the amount of $75,000.
Ms. Mailander explained that the amount required to be raised in the 2022 budget will be $263,900 consisting of $189,400 of emergency appropriations not considered capital, and a $74,500 down payment needed for Capital Ordinances.
4.) Cancellation of Budget Appropriations – Parking Utility
Ms. Mailander stated that there are unexpended budget appropriations in the Parking Utility for salaries and wages. Due to the decline in revenues and a reduction in operations of the utility, it is necessary to formally cancel the balances appropriated. The unexpended balance may be credited to surplus and offset the anticipated shortfall in parking revenues.
5.) Property Tax Exemption for Disabled Veteran
Ms. Mailander stated that the owner of 577 Northern Parkway has applied for the Property Tax Exemption for Disabled Veterans. The property tax payment for 2021 will be refunded in the amount of $13,244.83, without interest, and the 2022 property taxes will be cancelled in the amount of $6,622.00.
6.) Award Contract – Landfill Disposal of Solid Waste
Ms. Mailander said that only one bid was received in response to the proposal for Landfill Disposal of Solid Waste for 2022-2023. The bidder IWS Transfer Systems, of Teaneck, N.J., is quoting $80.49 per ton for 2022 and 2023, and a travel distance of 11.95 miles. The Village is using IWS Transfer Systems at this time for the same amount of money, Ms. Mailander pointed out that the Village is fortunate that the price has not increased.
Councilwoman Perron recalled that Mr. Calbi indicated previously that there would be an increase in the amount of waste. Mr. Calbi said the six-year average doesn’t include this current year, and they are budgeting for 9,500 tons in 2022.
7.) Award Professional Services – Medical Check-ups and Child Immunizations
Ms. Mailander stated that the Health Department went out for eight quotes from physicians relative to the monthly work at the Ridgewood/Glen Rock/Fairlawn Child Health Conference in 2022. One reply was received from Dr. Wayne Narucki, who has been working the clinics for the past twelve years. Dr. Narucki is charging $180, which is a $5 rate increase from last year. The maximum amount for each town to pay is $1,950, and clinics are run approximately two to three hours per months during a ten-month period.
8.) Results of Rebid for Body Shop Services
Ms. Mailander recalled that Mr. Rutishauser went out for bids for body shop services previously and there was no response. He went out for a rebid and again has received no response. As a result, the Village Council will consider a resolution to acknowledge the receipt of bids which will permit Fleet Services to negotiate body shop services for the repair of vehicles. The intent of this bid was to obtain prices by public bid for Body Shop services for the repair of Village vehicles and equipment.
9.) Award Contract – Preparation of 2022 Village Council Meeting Minutes
Ms. Mailander reported that she advertised for someone to prepare synopsis minutes for the 2022 Village Council meetings. She required information on price per page in addition to a sample synopsis minutes. In 2021, the price per page was $9.00. Five people picked up the specifications and one valid proposal was received from Alvarez Typing for $7.50 per page. Ms. Mailander said that Ms. Alvarez previously prepared Village Council meeting minutes in 2009 and 2020, and at that time the minutes were detailed and comprehensive. Ms. Mailander recommended that the Village Council award a contract to Irene Alvarez, d.b.a. Alvarez Typing to run from January 1, 2022 through December 31, 2022.
10.) Additional Award – Yard Waste Disposal
Ms. Mailander explained that this is an additional award for yard waste disposal including grass clippings generated by Village residents during the 2021 yard waste season. She pointed out that 2021 was a good growing season with increased rainfall resulting in increased yard waste. The additional amount will be awarded to RVH Mulch Supply, LLC, of Wyckoff, N.J., who were the lowest responsible bidders in an amount not to exceed $18,000.
11.) Award Professional Services – Risk Management Consultants
Ms. Mailander said that a Risk Management Consultant must be appointed annually as a result of the Village’s membership in the Joint Insurance Fund (JIF). For many years, Brown and Brown have been the consultants. The recommendation is to continue with this company that aids with workers compensation, general liability, and property damage claims. The charge for the service is $65,000 based on a formula from JIF.
d. Policy
1.) Amend Resolution 21-233 – Body Worn Camera Grant Agreement
Ms. Mailander stated that the Village awarded body worn cameras for the Police Department which were funded by a grant. After the resolution was adopted, they were told that the grant period from January 1,, 2021 through December 31, 2025, had to be included in the resolution in order for the Village to receive the grant money. It is required that the resolution be redone to include the time period.
2.) Opioid Litigation Participation
Mr. Rogers explained that governmental entities have initiated litigation to include municipalities relative to the opioid crisis in America. This litigation is against the three largest pharmaceutical distributors of opioids including McEssen; Cardinal Health; and Amerisource Bergen; along with pharmaceutical companies Jansen Pharmaceutical; and Johnson and Johnson. There has been a national settlement agreement relative to this opioid litigation and he is working with the New Jersey State appointed attorney to handle all the political and governmental subdivisions. Mr. Rogers pointed out that there is now a process where municipalities can benefit by joining this settlement agreement. He explained that Ridgewood would have to waive any other rights that it may have regarding any further litigation by participating in this settlement. Under this settlement agreement, it appears the Village could gain $250,000 worth of funds over the next three years. Eighty five percent of these funds must be used for opioid use abatement and for educational purposes in the schools to stem this pandemic. A decision to participate must be made by January 2, 2022, and no money will be disbursed until April of 2022 at the earliest. Mr. Rogers recommends going forward with participation in this settlement.
Councilman Vagianos asked why the Village wouldn’t move forward, and Mr. Rogers said the only reason would be the possible waiver of any other claims by the Village. He said he could not think of any other claims that the Village would bring forward. Mayor Knudsen noted that treatment and recovery options are part of this opportunity in this funding and time is of the essence.
Mr. Rogers said he would have a resolution drafted for the meeting next week.
3.) Fees – Graydon Pool, Tennis and Pickleball Membership for 2022
Ms. Mailander said that the staff at the Parks and Recreation Department recognize that the global pandemic is still ongoing and because of that fact they are recommending that current membership fees should remain the same as they were in 2021. It is also recommended that there be a separate membership for those wishing to utilize the pickleball courts and that fee should be the same rate as tennis badge memberships. Tennis and pickleball will be separate memberships in order to track the numbers who are playing each sport. Ms. Mailander said that someone wanting to play both tennis and pickleball should be charged a discounted rate of $60 for the two badges rather than $80. She noted that each individual membership is $40 each.
Mayor Knudsen said that this is an increase and not a discount and she does not support it. Anyone wishing to play both sports should be given a double marked badge and listed as doing both sports. She added that there must be a better solution to accommodate both activities rather than imposing a 50% increase. Councilwoman Reynolds indicated agreement. Councilwoman Perron said she agreed also as long as the Parks and Recreation Department can track the data they need. Councilman Sedon pointed out that there are only six people that would be affected by any increase in fees.
Mayor Knudsen commented that since she has been looking around the Village and she now thinks there are ample Village owned properties that could be used for pickleball courts.
Ms. Mailander said that there is a consensus not to charge more for those playing both sports.
4.) Zoning Board of Adjustment – Annual Report
Ms. Mailander stated that this is an Annual Report required by law. The report makes recommendations pursuant to zoning adjustments as well as best practices for their Board and the Building Department. They are recommending that the Village allocate additional funds to allow for stricter and more timely code enforcement of non-compliant homeowners throughout the Village. Ordinance recommendations include: that the temporary resolution regarding variance approval from one year to two years be permanently adopted; Planning Board consideration of the allowable depth of a front porch with an amendment to the front yard setback; Planning Board consideration of replacing the existing setback rules with a minimum/maximum calculation to neighboring properties; clarification of when and how much a driveway can be widened leading up to a garage; and consideration of the requirement for a minimum lot width or a maximum driveway width in the case of a circular driveway.
Mayor Knudsen said that the review did go to the Planning Board; however, it needed to come before the Village Council initially. She recalled that the Mayor and Council had considered the setback rules sometime in 2012; however, did not agree on a solution.
Mr. Rogers said that these are the kinds of variance requests the Board sees most frequently. He pointed out that the extension of variance approval from one to two years has been done in many municipalities. The Board also notes discrepancies they find in the Village’s Zoning Code and in other cases they are calling for clarifications.
Mayor Knudsen recommended taking the report to the Planning Board for comment. The report will then come back to the Village Council for consideration by the Village Council. Councilwoman Perron agreed adding that she didn’t understand the change to the setback rules that would take another resident’s property into consideration. Councilman Vagianos said that there are areas in the Village where houses are set quite far back which disrupts the visual streetscape. Mayor Knudsen agreed and said that the Board of Adjustment is asking whether a change needs to be made, or some type of clarification is needed.
5.) Dining Corrals
Councilman Vagianos recused himself from participation in this item and the next agenda item.
Ms. Mailander said that dining corrals have been extended through December 31st of 2021. Mayor Knudsen said that there were issues with a couple of the dining corals. In one case, the corral was blocking an entire store front, and in another, valuable parking spaces were being used that impacted a storeowner’s ability to conduct business. These issues are being resolved according to Ms. Mailander.
Councilman Sedon said dining corrals should continue as long as necessary, but he didn’t think the approval should be permanent. Mayor Knudsen indicated that she would work with the Village Manager and staff to address any outstanding issues, and she suggested that the Village Council consider the situation in February or March when everyone has a better understanding of the variants. After some more discussion, it was decided that the corrals will remain until March 31st, 2022.
Ms. Mailander said there is another issue of allowing the corrals to go past their lease line, or to go in front of other businesses. Councilwoman Perron agreed that this could be allowed if both the business and the landlord consents. Ms. Mailander said that if the landlord agrees the business should also agree. It would not be allowable if the landlord agrees but the tenant did not agree. The Councilmembers indicated that they have no problem if both the business and landlord agree to extend the corrals past the lease line. Mayor Knudson remarked that she doesn’t find a lot of clutter appealing but she agreed with the majority opinion.
6.) Outdoor Cafes
Ms. Mailander said that some restaurants have had greenhouses, tents, or bubbles. She asked if the Council would continue to let these structures exist relative to outdoor cafes. Mayor Knudsen stated that due to the environment of variants, the structures should also be allowed to continue until March 31, 2022. People should be encouraged to come downtown to shop and dine and there has to be some sort of comfort level provided. Councilmembers agreed with this.
Ms. Mailander asked if the same lease line idea should be used for these outdoor structures. Mayor Knudsen said this would work until it is revisited next March. Ms. Mailander repeated that the idea is to have both the landlord and tenant agree as noted previously.
Ms. Mailander spoke about permanent tents. She noted that there is one business that has a permanent tent. The agreement is that in the case of snow, the company who owns the tent would remove the roof before the snow accumulates. Mayor Knudsen said she agrees with tents that have two sided openings to enhance people’s comfort levels. She said that a completely enclosed tent defeats the purpose and is simply another building.
Councilwoman Perron said that you can open the flaps of a tent to allow for a large amount of air circulation, which is not possible inside a building. People find tents appealing because they are warmer even though you are still outside. She concluded that tents definitely improve comfort levels.
Mayor Knudsen said that any restrictions regarding tents should be left as is, and Councilmembers agreed. Ms. Mailander questioned the possibility of tents with open sides instead of dining corrals. Councilman Sedon indicated that this is far too much clutter. Councilwoman Perron said that the number of people in a tent or bubble could be limited to six or eight, but Mayor Knudson said that this would be impossible to enforce. Mayor Knudsen stated that the only tent that was in operation last year is on private property and should be allowed to continue. The Village Council will re-visit the situation and these suggestions after March 31st, 2022.
e. Operations
1.) Authorize Shared Services Agreement – 2022 Child Health Clinic
Ms. Mailander said that Glen Rock and Fair Lawn will join Ridgewood in the Child Health Care Clinic in 2022. Glen Rock has joined Ridgewood for the past ten years and this is the fifth year with Fair Lawn. Glen Rock and Fair Lawn are billed for one third of the invoice billed by the pediatrician at the conclusion of the final clinic of the year.
9. REVIEW OF DECEMBER 8, 2021 REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING AGENDA
Ms. Mailander stated that the meeting will include a proclamation declaring January Radon Action Month.
Ms. Mailander stated that there are no Ordinance Introductions or Public Hearings for Ridgewood Water. The following resolutions for Ridgewood Water include: Award Sole Source Contract for Software Support for SCADA; Title 59 Approval and Award Contract for Furnishing and Delivering Sodium Hypochlorite Solution; Title 59 Approval and Award Contract for Pipes, Appurtenances and Service Materials; Title 59 Approval and Award Contract for Line Stop Valve Insertion; and Authorize Change Order for the new Ridgewood Water Facility.
Ms. Mailander said that there will be an Ordinance Introduction to Amend Chapter 145 for Fees for Graydon Pool, Tennis, and Pickleball Membership Fees.
Ms. Mailander reviewed the Ordinances for Public Hearing: Amending Chapter 190 – Land Use and Development – “H” Hospital District; Establishing Standards for Electrical Vehicle Charging Spaces in New Developments; 2021 Management Salary Ordinance; 2022 Non-Union Salary Ordinance; 2022 Management Salary Ordinance; Amending Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Ridgewood Parking Permits Rules and Regulations for Non-Residents; Amending Chapter 145 – Fees – Fees for Ridgewood Parking Permits.
Resolutions include: Approve 2022 Village Cash Management Plan; Designate Official Newspapers for 2022; 2022 Annual Meetings Statement; Award Contract for Preparation of 2022 Village Council Meeting Minutes; Title 59 Approval and Award Contract for Landfill Disposal of Solid Waste; Award Professional Services Contract for Child Health Clinic; Award Professional Services Contract for Risk Management Consultants; Award Professional Services Contract for Employee Assistance Program; Authorize Shared Services Agreement for 2022 Child Health Clinic; Authorize Shared Services Agreement for TV Inspection of Sanitary Sewer Mains (Northwest Bergen County Utilities Authority); Approve Budget Transfers; Establish 2022 Temporary Budget; Authorize Cancellation of Emergency Appropriations for Current Fund; Authorize Cancellation of Budget Appropriations for Current Fund; Authorize Refund and Cancellation of Taxes for Disabled Veteran – Block 2907, Lot 44; Amend Resolution #21-233 for Body-Worn Camera Grant Agreement; Appoint Joint Insurance Fund Commissioner; Appoint Public Agency Compliance Officer; Appoint Member to Library Board of Trustees; Appoint Members to Open Space Committee; Appoint Members to Project Pride Committee; Appoint Members to Central Business District Advisory Committee; Appoint Members to Green Ridgewood Committee; Appoint Members to Ridgewood Green Team Advisory Committee; and Opioid Litigation.
Resolutions removed from Consent Agenda include: Extend Dining Corals and Outdoor Cafes through March 31st, 2022.
10. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Mayor Knudsen stated they again would have comments from the public and asked anyone wishing to address the Village Council to come forward.
Carolyn Jacoby, 160 Godwin Ave, Shade Tree Commission Member, stated that the tree planting will be complete tomorrow in time for the tree lighting. This was the goal, and she thanked the Councilmembers for their continued support. She hopes to move forward with a robust Phase Two in 2022.
Rurik Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, again asked Councilmembers to speak clearly into the microphones. He asked about the legal matter on the Closed Session agenda which is Jardini suing the Village. Mr. Rogers said that this is a slip and fall lawsuit.
Mr. Halaby said that Franklin Avenue is very uneven and poorly surfaced. He questioned the status of the resurfacing program.
Regarding the discussion on dining corrals, Mr. Halaby said that decisions should be left up to restaurant owners as long as they are not obstructing traffic or are creating a dangerous situation. He thinks that the corrals make the downtown area more attractive and interesting.
Mayor Knudsen asked that someone follow up with Bergen County regarding the paving on Franklin Avenue. She said that the Village approved the shared services and completed their portion of the work some time ago. Councilwoman Reynolds said that she attended a meeting where this was discussed, and she asked if the work would be done in the Spring of 2022. She was told that the County has not scheduled the work for Spring 2022, and in fact the County is falling behind with their paving programs. She said the County needs to be reminded about the situation every couple of months.
Denise Lima, 319 East Glen Avenue, also said it is difficult to hear. Ms. Lima referred to historical preservation and said the Village needs stronger guidelines, committees and oversite. She said that something has to be done relative to the historic stone house on Prospect Street and Maple Avenue. She asked for changes to be made to the Master Plan and she pointed out that the Village website has no information on the history of the Village. Ms. Lima stressed the importance of having a plan to put other people in place who will take over the history of the Village. She noted that the Paramus Church and East Glen Avenue are historic streets that are missing from historic designation in the Master Plan. She asked the Council to think about what could be done differently to protect and ensure what is left.
Louis Delicate, 959 Barnes Drive, noted the large piles of leaves in his area. He said that it is almost impossible for two cars to pass on the road. He suggested alternate side of the street leaf packing. Mr. Delicate spoke about the new sidewalk in front of Habernickel Park which is not used because people walk in the street.
Mr. Delicate said he started playing pickleball at the YMCA before the beginning of the pandemic and the courts at Glen are a big improvement compared to the facilities he had used. He pointed out that there are three or four months out of the year when it is impossible to play outside, and after it rains some of the courts cannot be used. Closing the courts on Monday and Friday eliminates 28% of the time during a week when pickleball could be played. In the summer it becomes too hot to play if the courts are not accessible until 10:00 A.M. Mr. Delicate stated that this sport affords an opportunity for individuals who aren’t overly athletic, or may be handicapped, to be actively engaged and involved as well as being socially engaged. Mr. Delicate urged the Village Council to extend the amount of time when the pickleball courts can be used to be consistent with the time that play is allowed on the tennis courts.
Lillian Blood, 250 North Maple Avenue, thanked the Village Council for listening to the concerns of pickleball players. She congratulated Councilman Vagianos on his recent election and she recognized all the time the Councilmembers take from their personal lives to make such a difference to the community. Ms. Blood said she delivers meals as part of the Feed the Frontline program and finds it to be very rewarding.
Regarding pickleball, Ms. Blood had a surveyor measure the distance from the homes of the people who are complaining about the sound coming from the courts. She said that these people live too far away to be impacted by the noise and the sound decibels are lower than allowed. She had copies of the information to distribute to Councilmembers. Ms. Blood said that the hours for pickleball should be the same as the hours for tennis, and she agreed that the price for the pickleball badge should be the same as a tennis badge.
No one else came forward and Mayor Knudsen stated that the public comment portion was closed.
Councilwoman Perron responded to the comment that the restaurants should be allowed to do whatever they want. She said that the Village supplies good structure, predictability and safety by establishing the permitting system.
Regarding Ms. Blood’s information about the location of the homes occupied by residents who are complaining about pickleball, she said she had seen the report and most people live beyond 500 ft. of the courts. She walked the area on November 11th and found the sound of pickleball to be very faint with the exception of one home that is quite close to the courts.
Mayor Knudsen said that Denise Lima raised some good points. She said that in the case of historic homes and properties owned by the Village there is a legal obligation; however, when historic homes are owned privately there is nothing the Village can do. Mr. Rogers said that designating properties and areas as historic is very difficult; however, he said that the points raised by Ms. Lima should be considered.
Councilman Vagianos said he has been on both side of the dais, and he understands how difficult it is to hear people speaking. He suggested that everyone bring the microphone closer in order to be better heard.
8. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION
Ms. Young read Resolution #21-360 to go into Closed Session as follows:
9. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Sedon, seconded by Councilwoman Reynolds, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 10:05 P.M.
_________________________________ Susan Knudsen Mayor
_________________________________ Eileen Young Deputy Village Clerk
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