20220302 - Village Council Public Workshop Minutes

A REGULAR PUBLIC WORK SESSION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY, ON MARCH 2, 2022 AT 7:30 P.M.

 

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

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon called the meeting to order at 7:34 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 Vagianos.  Mayor Knudsen arrived at 8:15 P.M.  Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; Eileen Young, Deputy Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney.

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.  There was a moment of silence for all men and women serving our nation and all people suffering through war and terrible times.

 

2.         COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

Douglas Goodell, 234 Mulberry Place, complimented Councilman Vagianos, Mayor Knudsen, and Attorney Matthew Rogers for their efforts on behalf of the Barnett/Mulberry/First Street neighborhood, addressing the issues raised by the Ho-Ho-Kus Crossing development.  He said that they stepped up at the 11^th hour to get involved so that they could understand the situation and possibly mitigate the matter.  He called their efforts “valiant” and he was sure that all neighbors appreciated their efforts.

 

Mr. Goodell explained that he was speaking about a high-density, mixed-use development being built on Ridgewood’s border with Ho-Ho-Kus at First Street and Maple Avenue.  Much of the development is four stories high, including retail space and 67 apartments, with the only egress being via First Street.  Some elements in this development are very good and will benefit the community; however, Mr. Goodell stated that other elements are highly detrimental to the neighborhood and do not belong adjacent to a single-family residential zone, which was both recognized and ignored by the developer and the Ho-Ho-Kus Zoning Board.

 

Mr. Goodell indicated that the development was expanded in 2020 when Ho-Ho-Kus designated the properties as areas in need of redevelopment pursuant to New Jersey LRHL (Local Redevelopment and Housing Law) guidelines.  However, in September of 2019, the Borough of Ho-Ho-Kus approved a private effort to develop these properties.  Mr. Goodell explained that this was “curious” because a fundamental characteristic of LRHL statutes is their intent to deal with areas “not likely to be ameliorated by private effort.” 

 

Mr. Goodell asked if Ho-Ho-Kus’s efforts to restructure its zoning and make this a redevelopment area were known to Ridgewood officials.  He queried how an area slated for private development fit into the statute’s intentions, i.e., in areas where private development was unlikely.  He wondered if this constituted “misuse” of the statutes.  They have tried unsuccessfully to recommend and implement changes to this proposed development.

 

Ann Melone, 134 Foster Terrace, thanked the Village Council for placing the issue of hybrid access on the agenda this evening.  She advocates for its adoption.  As a member of the League of Women Voters, and as an individual, she stated that she retired after a rewarding career in education and hoped to become more involved in community life.  Unfortunately, an injury, in addition to her post-polio condition, limits her mobility.  When Covid hit and Zoom meetings and hybrid access proliferated, she saw the world “open up.”  Ms. Melone indicated that restoring hybrid access at this time would allow her and many others to fully participate in Village government. 

 

Over the 40 years that she has lived in Ridgewood, Ms. Melone has seen Ridgewood grow from a sedate suburb into a diverse and dynamic Village due to progressive Village Councils and the amazing young families who have moved to Ridgewood.  She stated that Ridgewood is a community with a “great big heart.”  From Jamboree to the HealthBarn Foundation, to the Village’s outstanding commitment to special education, as well as the sponsorship of ACCESS Weekend and the new housing for special needs individuals, Village residents show that they care.  She is proud that Ridgewood was one of the first towns to fly the rainbow flag and that Ridgewood hosts an annual Pride Day.

 

Ms. Melone urged the Village Council to not move backwards but to proceed forward towards full participation for all in Village government through hybrid access.  She urged the adoption of hybrid access because she doesn’t know how many more times she can get her husband to drive her to meetings.

 

Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, indicated that she was very happy to see that the topic of hybrid meetings was placed on the agenda, and she appreciates that Councilman Vagianos pushed for it to be on the agenda.  She indicated that she was not going to repeat her reasons for why she is in favor of hybrid access, because she has already done so, but stated that for those Councilmembers who are steadfastly opposed to reinstating hybrid access, she stated that it is “okay” for them to change their minds.  She said that sometimes people are very sure of something and then, if they change their mind, it can turn out very well.  Ms. Loving said that 40 years ago, she knew a handsome young man who was unequivocally not going to get married; however, he did change his mind and she’s pretty sure he hasn’t regretted it.  She urged the Village Council to unanimously approve the reinstatement of hybrid access.

 

Joan Ficke, 396 West End Avenue, indicated that she supported the “notion” of hybrid access, both professionally and personally.  She indicated that she “could not imagine” the Village Council conducting business without the full participation of the citizens in the community.  She thanked the Village Council for putting the hybrid access issue on the agenda and urged them to approve the reinstatement of hybrid access so that healthy discussion and the democratic process can be promoted.

 

Kathryn Schmidt, 123 South Irving Street, said she was speaking about two issues this evening, the first one dealing with safety.  She has had many discussions with Village officials and administration concerning safety for years.  About seven years ago, she pointed out the dangerousness of the intersection of Broad Street and Ridgewood Avenue because she is always “totally confused” about what to do when she is traveling through that intersection.  At that time, she suggested that a four-way stop sign be installed.  When she raised this issue, the response she got was, “There are not a lot of accidents at that intersection, so it’s not necessarily something we would do.”

 

Ms. Schmidt said that she received another comment from the Village approximately 20 years ago after an unfortunate accident occurred where a young girl was killed on Meadowbrook Avenue because, among other reasons, there was no stop sign there.  When she asked members of the Village Council and administration why that was the case, she was told, “Well, you can’t put a stop sign on every corner.”  She is aware that there are many case studies dealing with similar situations, but she took that answer to mean that not every intersection can be mitigated.  She said that she disagrees with that answer and that ways need to be found to be proactive about safety.  For these reasons, Ms. Schmidt requests that the Village Council be more proactive with safety issues and not wait until accidents happen before doing something about it.

 

Ms. Schmidt said she also wanted to speak about hybrid meetings.  She stated that once hybrid access is reinstated, the Village Council may be harangued with comments from people who can’t hear, people who can’t log in, people who can’t see the picture clearly, etc.  Regardless of these things, which are inevitably going to happen, Ms. Schmidt thinks that reinstating hybrid access is the “right thing to do” in the interest of even greater transparency, inclusion, engagement, participation, and openness.  She also encouraged the use of “closed captions.”  She is very happy that this issue is on the agenda this evening and she urged the Village Council to approve hybrid access.

 

Evan Weitz, 423 Oak Street, stated that he is speaking this evening in favor of democracy as well as hybrid access.  He said that the Village Council should make it easier for all Village residents to have access to meetings so they can observe how their local government is run.  He doesn’t understand why the Village Council is making it so hard for people to attend these meetings virtually and participate in Village government.  He mentioned people with young children who cannot get sitters, as well as disabled and elderly residents who have difficulty physically attending meetings.  Even with Covid abating, there are still residents who are “Covid sensitive.” He said that working families need to balance commuting time with civic involvement. 

 

Mr. Weitz repeated that he couldn’t understand why the Village Council would prevent its residents from participating in their local government.  He mentioned that the Board of Education offers hybrid access and that “Corporate America” has become accustomed to hybrid meetings.  He strongly urged the Village Council to increase access to democracy and approve the hybrid model.

 

Matthew Lindenberg, 165 Claremont Road, stated that he was speaking about two issues on the agenda, the first being the issue of dining corrals.  He stated that dining corrals have been one of the positive things arising from the Covid pandemic.  He called the dining corrals and pedestrian malls “a renaissance of al fresco dining.”  He encouraged the Village Council to continue to support dining corrals.

 

Mr. Lindenberg stated that he also wanted to address the issue of hybrid meetings.  He said that he wasn’t trying to convince any of the Councilmembers of anything.  He said that the “lines are drawn” and are very clear.  He urged the community and those watching the meeting at home to listen very carefully and pay attention.  He said two Councilmembers have a progressive view of hybrid access, open government, transparency, as well as the ability to involve people who are concerned about disease, who are disabled, and who have busy lives.

 

Mr. Lindenberg also stated that people will also hear two or three Councilmembers talk about expenses or technical difficulties regarding hybrid access; however, Mr. Lindenberg stated that both of these excuses have been “debunked” by Village staff.  Another reason may be “losing control of meetings,” something else which has been debunked, and a statement that “this is the way it’s always been.”  While he hopes that some Councilmembers have changed their minds, he highly doubts it.  He said that viewers should hold all Village Councilmembers accountable.

 

Anne Burton Walsh, 112 South Irving Street, thanked the Village Council for not cutting the request for the planting and maintenance of trees from the Capital Budget for 2022.  She especially thanked Councilman Sedon for his many years of hard work on this issue. 

 

Ms. Walsh also said that she wanted to read a letter on behalf of Ellie Gruber, addressed to Mayor Knudsen, Councilmembers Sedon, Reynolds, Perron and Vagianos, and Village Manager Mailander:  “As a Ridgewood resident who is often away for parts of the winter, I am writing to urge you to enable hybrid meetings.  I am curious as to the reason you oppose this when, for example, the Board of Education does this.  I do understand that when there’s a large number of letters that have to be read aloud, this puts a burden on the clerk.  But I suggest that you limit comments to either those in person or on the phone.  It is true that the slowing of infections from Covid/Omicron has allowed more open meetings, but there are still residents who cannot drive or attend evening meetings.  We do have a large number of seniors, some of whom have health issues.  We also have some who cannot get around without assistance.  They are also residents, and I believe that you are considerate enough that they be shown consideration.  If residents demand hybrid meetings, they should be willing to either show up in person or call in if they are unable to drive or obtain a ride.  This is participatory government.  As a long-time resident and member of the League of Women Voters, I am dedicated to the principle of educated and informed citizens in government.  We know full well how hard you all work, the burdens put on you to run a Village with many needs.  I am proud to live in Ridgewood.  I am also a scarred veteran of causes that sometimes did not work, but for the most part, you and past Councils and Managers have made our town one of the best in the nation.  For some reason, hybrid meetings have been a point of contention and I do look to you to find a solution.  Perhaps the suggestion that only call-in comments, plus in-person comments, in order to limit the burden on the Village Clerk will be a good compromise.  Thank you, Ellie Gruber.”

 

Siobhan Crann Winograd, 274 Ivy Place, said that she was very excited to see hybrid meetings on the agenda.   She thanked Councilmembers Perron and Vagianos for pushing to have this issue placed on the agenda.  She stated that she was also grateful to the members of the League of Women Voters for their support of hybrid access. 

 

Ms. Crann Winograd indicated that one of her father’s favorite quotes was, “When much is given, much is expected.”  She stated that the Village Council has given a lot, and the public expects much.  She acknowledged that it is an enormous responsibility to govern a Village with a large budget.  She doesn’t understand why the Village Council doesn’t want “help” and why there has been a perception that the podium is a place to complain rather than to provide solutions.  She stated that it is perplexing to her, and also to the older and newer residents in Ridgewood, why the Village Council will not allow hybrid access.

 

Ms. Crann Winograd spoke about possible objections to hybrid access.  She mentioned the comment made by Councilman Vagianos about how much it would cost the Village to provide hybrid access.  She stated that when this cost is “dollarized” per citizen, it amounts to a quarter per person per year to allow access to local government, to make a commitment to aging citizens or working parents.  She said that the cost seems worth it.  She again thanked everyone who got this issue put on the agenda and that everyone is expecting the Councilmembers to vote yes.

 

Bob Fuhrman, 49 Clinton Avenue, stated that he also wanted to address the issue of hybrid meetings.  He said that many people have expressed reasons why hybrid access would be beneficial to certain individuals and he didn’t want to be repetitive.  He said that if the Village wants to encourage active government participation, then the hybrid meetings should be approved.  He said that, due to Covid, many people have engaged in Zoom meetings and taught classes online, and “it works.”  He said that if Councilmembers are not interested in seeing residents participate, then they will vote no.  Mr. Fuhrman said that residents should pay attention as to who votes yes and who votes no.

 

Randy Carson, 817 East Ridgewood Avenue, said that he is also in favor of hybrid meetings.  On another subject, he mentioned that he wanted to talk about the dining corrals.  He said that it would be extremely disappointing if the Village Council voted to remove the dining corrals because restaurants have paid for the parking spots for the entire winter with no one sitting outside.  Restaurants paid for the spots for the entire winter believing that they would be able to have the spots from April to October (after the current rental expires on March 31), which would enable them to recoup the money spent during the winter months when they had very few customers who utilized outdoor dining.

 

Mr. Carson said he could only think of two reasons why the corrals would be removed, and one reason was the loss of parking spots.  He stated that this wasn’t the case.  The lot on Walnut Street is rarely full and the lot on Chestnut Street is full “here and there” but mostly never full.  The only times he has seen these lots full is at night and on weekends.  This leads him to believe that restaurants are “driving” spots in town and encouraging visitors to come to Ridgewood.

 

Another reason for possible removal is because they are an eyesore.  Mr. Carson stated that a local artist has painted the barriers and they look a little nicer, but it is difficult for restaurants to invest money to enhance their space when they are operating on “three month approvals.”  Businesses have spent a lot of money to combat the Covid pandemic, and Mr. Carson said that they cannot keep spending money on “enhancement” with the corrals facing an uncertain future.

 

Mr. Carson stated that restaurants have paid top dollar every spring and winter during peak demand for outdoor furniture, heaters, etc., but they never know until the last minute whether or not the Village Council will approve the existence of the dining corrals.  If restaurant owners knew in advance what the Village Council planned to do, then they can be better prepared.  Restaurants may appear to be busy and coming back strong, but the cost of business is out of control.  Prices for food, payroll, and general supplies are “going through the roof.” 

 

Mr. Carson said that to deny the restaurants the ability to have the corrals because they “look busy” and appear to be fine is not fair.  He stated that times are tough.  He said that he would never have committed his life to this industry if he knew it was going to be this hard.  However, he stated that they will continue to “fight” through this and continue to make the Village proud, but they cannot do it without the Village’s help.

 

Rebecca Rubenstein, 201 Woodland Avenue, stated that she is a Trustee of the Ridgewood Library and is very active with the Friends of the Ridgewood Library, one of its fundraising organizations.  Ms. Rubenstein wanted to inform the Village Council and the public about some upcoming events and initiatives. 

 

The Honor Roll Reading Marathon is a fundraiser held throughout the month of February, for all Ridgewood students in preschool through eighth grade, and raises funds for the purchase of books and development of programming for children and teens.  Ms. Rubenstein stated that students are encouraged to log in and submit their reading accomplishments; in turn, they will receive a coupon for a free Ben ‘N Jerry’s ice cream cone or, for those in middle school, to be entered into a raffle to receive a pair of Apple AirPods.  Ms. Rubenstein indicated that an exciting finale event for the Reading Marathon will be held at the Library on Saturday, March 12, 2022 called “Star Wars Day,” with activities for all ages throughout the day.  For more information, interested residents can log in to RidgewoodLibrary.org. 

 

Ms. Rubenstein announced that the Friends of the Ridgewood Library is hosting their next Author Luncheon event on Wednesday, April 6, 2022 at Seasons Catering in Washington Township.  This year’s guest author is Yaa Gyasi who wrote the books “Homegoing” and “Transcendent Kingdom.”  After the Author Luncheon was cancelled in 2020 due to Covid and the luncheon in 2021 was held virtually, Ms. Rubenstein said that everyone is looking forward to finally holding the luncheon in person.  Tickets are now on sale at RidgewoodLibrary.org and includes a cocktail hour, seated lunch, book signing, 50/50 raffle, and a Silent Auction with unique items.

 

Ms. Rubenstein stated that the Library has been working hard on its outreach to the public.  New resident packets with information about the Library are being delivered to all new residents, and all Village residents should have received by now the latest newsletter from the Library which highlights events being held at the Library from March through May 2022.  Ms. Rubenstein stated that this represents the Library’s most extensive outreach, with newsletters reaching 8,300 mailboxes in Ridgewood.  This newsletter is sent out four times a year and every resident is invited to join the Library to explore all that they offer.  She thanked the newsletter’s sponsors:  Valley Medical Group, Cathy Entwistle of Morgan Stanley, and Janice Fuhrman of Terri O’Connor Realtors.

 

Ms. Rubenstein thanked the Village Council for all that they do to support the Library.  She stated that when they invest in the Library, they invest in the community.

 

Glenn Carlough, 200 Dayton Street, stated that he is the owner of Steel Wheels Tavern at 51 North Broad Street in Ridgewood.  He echoed Randy Carson’s comments and indicated that he had some additional comments.  He referred to the letter and design proposal for dining corrals which he submitted to the Village Council in October 2021.  Mr. Carlough explained that all restaurant owners have a willingness to beautify and invest in the dining corrals; however, they cannot do that without a guarantee that the dining corrals will be allowed to exist in the future.

 

Mr. Carlough stated that the dining corrals “give 100% occupancy to those parking spaces,” which is hard to come by.  In fact, he suggested that restaurant owners would be willing to pay a premium above whatever revenue the parking spaces would generate, which would represent an additional revenue stream for the Village.  He doesn’t see how this could be viewed as anything but a “positive.”  He said that restaurant owners take up very few spaces; at the peak, the dining corrals took up 22 parking spaces, and now the corrals are “in the teens.” 

 

Mr. Carlough stated that nine days ago, his neighbor at the Lincoln Building (45 North Broad Street) told him that his anchor tenant would like a couple of Mr. Carlough’s parking spaces taken away from the dining corral. Mr. Carlough is now down to three spots from the five he previously had.  He again stated that restaurant owners are willing to work with everyone and have no desire to harm their retail or office building neighbors.  They just want to do the best they can for their businesses and for the general public. 

 

Mr. Carlough said that before the Covid pandemic, the seats that were occupied first in his restaurant in the nice weather were always outside.  He believes that outdoor dining brings people into the Central Business District (CBD) and he would like to think that this benefits everyone, the Village and also retailers from overflow traffic.  Another benefit is that more people can be hired during the warmer months.  Restaurant owners paid for these parking spots during the wintertime, which was not optimal, but it was with the hope that they might be able to continue that through the end of 2022.

 

Boyd A. Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that he fully supports any change in the meeting format of the Village Council that will permit people to participate from home.  It has been suggested that it is always the same people who are “saying this” over and over again.  At tonight’s meeting, he observed faces that he has never seen before come to the podium to speak in support of hybrid access.  Therefore, he said that it is not always the same people who comment on this issue.

 

Mahmud Hamza, 528 Amsterdam Avenue, said that he was speaking on behalf of the Shade Tree Commission.  He thanked the Village Council and especially Deputy Mayor Sedon for their support for the shade trees.  Mr. Hamza mentioned that a friend from Stony Brook visited him in Ridgewood and his first impression was “Wow, what a beautiful Village! You have wonderful trees!”  The trees are not only important for the environment and for the well-being of the citizens of Ridgewood, but are also important in making the Village “special” and to make people want to visit, live, and do business in the Village.  He urged the Village Council to approve the budget for the shade trees.

 

There were no further comments from the public.

 

 

3.         MANAGER’S REPORT

 

Ms. Mailander announced that there has been a huge increase in stolen cars in Ridgewood and, in 100% of the cases, the key fobs were left in the cars.  She urged all residents to not leave their key fobs in their cars.  Cars should be locked and all items should be removed from cars such as wallets, purses, and jewelry because they encourage break-ins and create “crimes of opportunity.”  In 2021, a total of 25 cars were stolen from Ridgewood; in the first two months of 2022, nine cars have already been stolen.  Ms. Mailander wanted everyone to be aware that unless a police officer believes that a violator has committed a crime of the first degree or certain crimes of the second degree, they are not allowed to engage in pursuit driving.  For example, police cannot pursue someone if they steal a car because that is not a violation of the first or second degree.

 

Ms. Mailander said that, previously, car thieves would try to steal cars in the early morning hours, would try to avoid cameras and lights, and would wear dark clothing; however, they are now brazenly stealing cars in broad daylight.  This is a very serious issue.  Glen Rock has coined a phrase, “Lock it or lose it.”  Ms. Mailander once again pleaded with residents to lock their cars and remove their fobs and valuable property.

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that Parks and Recreation will be holding a summer Job Fair for residents aged 16 years and older who are seeking part-time seasonal employment in the Village.  It will be held on March 22, 2022 from 6:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.  Job opportunities include working at the summer camp, lifeguarding, badge and security, and possibly some other internships within the Village.  People will also be in attendance to demonstrate to young people how they can write a better resume.  The Ridgewood Parks and Recreation Department has also recently sent out their flyer for spring and summer programs for children and adults, with a wide range of program choices and a list of dates to help with summer planning.

 

The Stable Art Gallery is open weekdays from 8:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M.  Monthly exhibits display a wide variety of locally created art.  Artist information and guest books are located in the main lobby of The Stable. 

 

On Sunday, April 10, 2022, the Earth Day Fair and Daffodil Festival will be held at Memorial Park in Van Neste Square.

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that for over 70 years, Jamboree has presented an original musical show to raise money for college scholarships.  This year, the shows will be held on March 3, 4 and 5, 2022 at the Benjamin Franklin Middle School.  She announced that the entire Village Council will be participating.

 

Super Science Saturday is presenting its 34^th Science Fair event on Saturday, March 5, 2022 from 10:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M.  The event will be held virtually.  Interested residents should log in to SuperScienceSaturday.org for details and to view the interactive live stream.  It will be presented live and on demand for the entire month of March 2022.

 

Household hazardous waste collection for Bergen County will be held on Saturday, March 12, 2022 from 9:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. at the Bergen County Utilities Authority at the Foot of Empire Boulevard in Moonachie.  This includes hazardous waste such as aerosol cans, antifreeze, batteries, blacktop sealers, fertilizer, fire extinguishers, gasoline, pesticides, used motor oil, and things of that nature.  It is open only to Bergen County residents, so identification must be shown.

 

The styrofoam densifier at the Recycling Center, which the Village is using on a trial basis, has already been used to densify 30 bags of styrofoam today (March 2, 2022), and there are still over 100 bags of styrofoam waiting to be densified.  She mentioned that this is a great start towards fulfilling a recycling need in the Village.  The recycling is limited to the big styrofoam pieces used for packing.

 

The 2022 tennis and pickleball memberships are on sale and must be renewed from the prior year.  If a yellow membership badge was not issued in 2021, residents must have their picture taken and badge printed for 2022 at The Stable, Monday through Friday, 8:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M.

 

Hours for the senior bus have increased.  Trips to ShopRite in Wyckoff will take place on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month on a trial basis.  This service is free for all Ridgewood seniors.  Interested residents should contact the Village Manager’s Office to make arrangements for bus transportation.

 

Ms. Mailander urged everyone to sign up for E-notices on the Village website to be kept informed of Village events in a timely manner.  Upcoming Village Council meetings are broadcast live from the Village Hall Courtroom, on the Village website, on FIOS Channel 34, and on YouTube.  Upcoming meetings are scheduled for March 9 and April 13, 2022 (Public Meetings at 8:00 P.M.) and March 23 and April 6, 2022 (Work Sessions at 7:30 P.M.).

 

4.         COUNCIL REPORTS

 

Councilwoman Perron announced that the Green Ridgewood Advisory Committee is gearing up for Earth Day, which will be held at Memorial Park in Van Neste Square on Sunday, April 10, 2022 from 11:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M.  Anyone interested in sponsoring this event or would like to have a table at the event should contact Councilwoman Perron at pperron@ridgewoodnj.net.  She can send the forms to anyone interested.

 

Councilman Vagianos announced that he met with the Fields Committee on Tuesday morning, March 1, 2022.  He stated that it was a “robust” meeting because there are severe issues with the fields in Ridgewood.  As he has reported in the past, due to overuse, the Village is attempting to reseed several fields; as a result, most of Citizens Park and all of Vets Field will be closed until April 15, 2022.  These fields normally open for the spring season on March 7, 2022; however, all games are being rescheduled, with one or two exceptions.  Councilman Vagianos said that there are not enough fields in the Village to accommodate all of the sports teams.  He mentioned that there are numerous people who support the Fields Committee and who are working as hard as possible to be able to reopen these fields.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds indicated that the Planning Board met on March 1, 2022; however, she was at Jamboree practice and could not attend the meeting.  The only item on the agenda at the Planning Board meeting was to memorialize the Resolution regarding the preliminary investigation for the Valley Hospital property as an area in need of redevelopment.  She assumes that this was approved since this item is on the Village Council agenda this evening for discussion.

 

Councilman Sedon announced that the Village budget meetings are concluding.  Monday, March 7, 2022 will be the final meeting.  At that meeting, information will have been received from Bergen County which is necessary in order to set the new tax rate for the Village of Ridgewood.  On Wednesday, March 9, 2022, the Operating and Capital Budgets will be introduced and will be voted on in April 2022.  He thanked everyone who participated in developing these budgets, including his Council colleagues and the Village Manager, since some items had to be cut from the budgets to arrive at a reasonable number.  He said that the public is welcome to attend these budget meetings.

 

5.         DISCUSSION

 

A.        RIDGEWOOD WATER

 

            1.         WATER RATE & PFAS TREATMENT CHARGE

 

Ms. Mailander announced that the Village’s annual proposed increases to the water volume charge and PFAS (Polyfluoralkyl Substances) treatment charge for the Ridgewood Water fee schedule are evaluated each year.  It is developed and evaluated against anticipated revenues.  Howard Woods, a rate expert, has reviewed the proposed increases, including anticipated changes in operating expenditures, debt service, and maintenance of the minimum surplus balance.  The new proposed volume rate is $5.52 per 1,000 gallons, an increase of 16¢ per 1,000 gallons. 

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that the PFAS treatment charge (to meet funding demand for treatment of drinking water) is set according to meter size and is a fixed fee.  Most residents have 5/8” meters and the applicable PFAS charge for that size meter will be $7.06 per quarter.  The new rates will result in a $27.75 annual increase for the average residential customer; $15.04 or 54% of this increase is attributed to the PFAS surcharge increase.  Richard Calbi of Ridgewood Water was in attendance at the meeting this evening to answer any questions.

 

Ms. Mailander announced that Mayor Knudsen arrived at the meeting this evening at 8:15 P.M.

 

                        2.         Award Contract – Annual PFAS Laboratory Analysis Services

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item deals with the yearly contract for PFAS laboratory analysis services.  It is the second year of a two-year contract awarded to the lowest responsible bidder, Aqua Pro-Tech Laboratory of Fairfield, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $82,600.00.  This is being paid from the Water Utility Budget.

 

Councilwoman Perron asked what “GenX” represented.  Mr. Calbi replied that GenX is one of the replacement compounds that was manufactured to replace PFOA.  They are doing this analysis to make sure this compound is not in the drinking water.

 

                        3.         Award Contract – Annual Laboratory Analysis Services

 

Ms. Mailander announced that this item deals with awarding a contract for annual laboratory analysis services for Ridgewood Water.  This is the second year of a two-year contract awarded to the lowest sole responsible bidder, Aqua Pro-Tech Laboratory of Fairfield, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $256,502.00.  This will be paid for out of the Water Utility Budget.

 

When questioned by Councilwoman Perron, Mr. Calbi replied that these services are performed for analysis of anything that is not done in-house.  There are several items which they analyze in their own laboratory, but these are very specific items for which they do not have the proper equipment to analyze in the water.

 

            B.        BUDGET

 

1.         Award Irrigation System Services – Year Two

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item represents awarding a contract for year two of a two-year contract for irrigation system services for the Parks and Recreation Department.  This contract was awarded to the lowest responsible bidder, Sprinkler Guy Irrigation of Fair Lawn, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $18,000.00.  This is to be paid for out of the Parks and Recreation Operating Budget.

 

2.         Award Contract under County Contract – Tree Trimming Services – The View at Crest Road

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item awards a contract under the Bergen County Cooperative Bid for trimming trees and vegetative growth at The View at Crest Road for the benefit of all.  This was last done in 2018 and should be done approximately every four years so that the trees and vegetation do not become overgrown.  The contracted vendor is Downes Tree Service of Hawthorne, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $7,250.00.  Adjacent neighbors will be notified when these services will be performed, which is anticipated to be completed by May 1, 2022.  These services will be paid for out of the Parks and Recreation Operating Budget.

 

Councilman Vagianos recused himself from this discussion since he has a relationship with Kevin Downes.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds asked about the statement in the proposal by Downes Tree Service that 35 trees are to be removed, whereas elsewhere it is designated as “trimming of trees.”  Ms. Mailander replied that the work to be performed will consist of both removal and trimming of trees.  On-site evaluation of the trees will be performed as the project continues.  Trees are trimmed behind the rock wall on Crest Road to the level of the wall.  This work was done four years ago at double the price because a crane and other heavy equipment were required to perform the work.  Therefore, it is recommended that this work be performed every four years so that the trees and vegetation do not get out of control and, as a result, people will be able to enjoy The View from Crest Road.  Ms. Mailander mentioned that much of the growth in this area looks like trees, but they are actually weeds.

 

Councilwoman Perron said that she also found the proposal and resolution confusing.  The resolution indicates “dead tree removal” but elsewhere the services are described as “trimming or pruning.”  When she envisions “dead tree removal,” she thinks of removing a tree at ground level.  She also mentioned that the proposal indicates the removal of 35 trees.  She indicated that she needed more clarification if the services performed are to be more than just trimming or pruning.  Ms. Mailander replied that she would obtain further information in this regard before the meeting next week.  She mentioned that some trees will be removed and that some trees will be trimmed.  Ms. Mailander even offered to visit the site with Mr. Rutishauser, Village Engineer, and Councilwoman Perron to view the area.  This was agreeable to Councilwoman Perron.  Mayor Knudsen said that it is important to note that these services have been performed in the past in this area with great success.

 

3.         Declare Surplus – Parks Department

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this deals with declaring surplus property for the Parks Department.  There are equipment items which are no longer needed or are unusable or inoperable (old watering cart, mowers, infield grooming equipment, turf seed boxes, leaf blower, stump grinder, turf edger, paint machine, power broom, and lifeguard boats which are leaking and unsafe).  If this property is declared surplus, it will be posted on govdeals.com, an online auction site.

 

            D.        POLICY

 

1.         Designating The Valley Hospital Property as an Area in Need of Redevelopment

 

Mayor Knudsen announced that the Planning Board approved and recommended to the Village Council that The Valley Hospital property be designated as an area in need of redevelopment.  Mr. Rogers advised that a letter first needs to be received by the Village Council from the Planning Board memorializing this recommendation, which is anticipated to be received shortly, before the Village Council can approve an Ordinance to designate this property as an area in need of redevelopment.  It will be placed on the agenda at the next scheduled Work Session, with adoption of the Ordinance in April 2022. 

 

Mr. Rogers remarked that this issue emanates out of the settlement agreement with The Valley Hospital lawsuit and is incorporated into the Village’s Fair Share Housing Plan.  He said that he would forward any pertinent documents to the newer Councilmembers for their review so that they can familiarize themselves with this matter.

 

2.         Dining Corrals

 

Ms. Mailander said that the Village Council adopted a Resolution in December 2021 which extended the use of the dining corrals in the CBD through March 31, 2022.  At this time, the Village Council must decide whether to continue the use of the dining corrals or eliminate their use.  The cost of the dining corrals has been $250.00 per parking space per month.

 

Councilman Vagianos indicated that he needed to recuse himself from this discussion.

 

Mayor Knudsen acknowledged the feedback which the Village Council has received from the public and business owners.  The dining corrals are not maintained the way the Village had anticipated.  Mayor Knudsen said that the dining corrals are messy, a lot of trash and leaves have collected around the corrals, and they are taking a lot of valuable parking spaces away from neighboring retail business owners.  Mayor Knudsen feels that the dining corrals should be eliminated and the CBD returned to normal.

 

Councilwoman Perron acknowledged the comments from restaurant owners and feels that restaurants are an important aspect to the “life” of Ridgewood, the vibrancy brought by the outdoor dining corrals.  The restaurant owners maintained their dining corrals during the winter, hopeful that it would bring additional customers to their establishments.  The restaurant owners could enhance the dining corrals, making them more attractive, if they knew that they would exist in the future. 

 

Councilwoman Perron remarked that if the corrals are messy, Village officials should be telling restaurant owners to clean them up, but not getting rid of them altogether, especially when the revenue to the Village is a “constant” as opposed to parking spaces being full every day.  She views this as a win-win situation with a little bit of monitoring.  She would like to see the dining corrals continue through December 2022.  She mentioned that, of course, the dining corrals would look “drab and dirty” during the winter months.

 

Mayor Knudsen remarked that the dining corrals are not only dirty during the winter.  She has personally dined in the dining corrals and mentioned that there are sandbags, which are used to weigh down the propane heaters, thrown into flowers, and the corrals are messy.  One of the biggest drawbacks of keeping the dining corrals is that retailers are losing significant amounts of money and business because their customers cannot conveniently park close to their businesses (desirable if they are carrying heavy loads).  She mentioned that brick-and-mortar retail businesses are very upset because their prime parking spaces are being utilized by the dining corrals, where other businesses are able to expand their footprint into the middle of the street.  This situation is also discouraging new retailers from opening up businesses in the CBD.

 

Councilwoman Perron indicated that she felt that the brick-and-mortar retailers are up against more than just the dining corrals.  They must compete with online retailers such as Amazon and stores at large malls, as well as Covid.  She feels that the retail businesses will still struggle even if the dining corrals were removed.  Councilwoman Perron indicated that the dining corrals encourage people to park in the Parking Garage, which was built for shoppers and diners.  She said that every retailer wants to have the use of the parking spots in front of their businesses, which is not really possible.  She mentioned one comment by a resident this evening (during which time Mayor Knudsen was absent) in which he indicated that the restaurant owners would be willing to pay a premium above and beyond the established $250.00 per parking space.  Councilwoman Perron indicated that she was in favor of continuing the dining corrals.

 

Mayor Knudsen said that it was not fair to put yet another obstacle in the way of retail business owners, i.e., the dining corrals, reiterating what Councilwoman Perron mentioned about retailers having to compete against online retailers such as Amazon.  She feels that the retailers losing the parking spaces is like “driving the nail into the coffin.”  She stated that the Village Council has an obligation to help retailers in any way they can and it would be unconscionable to put yet another obstacle in their path which would affect their life investments.

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon said that he never viewed the dining corrals as a “permanent fixture.”  He said that dining corrals were instituted when the Covid pandemic began and the State of New Jersey decided that only 25% of a business could be filled with customers.  In order to help businesses in the CBD, dining corrals were allowed.  He believes that the dining corrals helped, but he feels the pandemic is winding down at the current time and the premium parking spots on the streets must be made available once again.

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon spoke about additional revenue being needed to fund the parking garage and stated that he didn’t want to see Ridgewood taxpayers footing the bill.  He also spoke about the recession in 2018 when businesses closed, the economy faltered, and the federal government bailed everyone out.  Deputy Mayor Sedon wants the Village to be able to build a “cushion” or surplus of funds so that it is better prepared in case another recession occurs.  He spoke about what is paid with taxpayers’ money such as the tree wells in the CBD, street paving, etc.  If the Parking Utility has a deficit, taxpayers will probably “cover the bill” until more revenue can be generated in the Parking Utility.  He reiterated that he never viewed the dining corrals as a permanent fixture but merely a measure to help businesses that were desperate at the time to survive.  He believes that this has been accomplished.

 

Mayor Knudsen recalled parking her car on Chestnut Street to visit a store and found a truck blocking her exit from her parking space.  She told the driver she would wait for him to make his liquor delivery and, while waiting, she saw another truck pull up and double park outside of a dining corral.  This meant that all cars entering Chestnut Street from Franklin Avenue had to literally enter the oncoming lane of traffic in order to pass the truck.  She stated that it was a “truck mess” and “an accident waiting to happen.”  If the dining corral had not been there, none of that would have happened.

 

Additionally, Mayor Knudsen recalled another occasion when she was near a restaurant with a dining corral in front of it and she noticed that cars were lined up into the intersection waiting for their takeout orders to be brought to them.  The cars were backed up because they couldn’t park in front of the restaurant and the dining corrals were taking up the parking spaces.  Mayor Knudsen asserted that the dining corrals are creating traffic and safety issues.  She said that the retail establishments have a right to the parking arrangements they signed up for when they originally opened their businesses.

Councilwoman Reynolds stated that she was “really torn” on this dining corral issue.  She likes the corrals and enjoys eating outdoors, even in the winter.  However, she does understand that the retail businesses are really hurting and the Village does not need any more businesses going out of business.  She said she hasn’t made up her mind on this issue and wondered if the retailers had any suggestions.  One thing she was sure of was that there needs to be more parking for the retailers.  For example, if someone wants to just run into the shoe repair place to drop off a pair of shoes, they are not going to park in the parking garage for a 10-minute errand and they’re not going to park on the next block either.

 

Mayor Knudsen said that she feels the Village has gone over and beyond supporting the restaurants in the Village, but she doesn’t feel that the parking spaces should be bid out to the highest bidder at the expense of other businesses.  She said that when a retailer sets up a business in Ridgewood, and they see that there are 10 parking spots in front of their location, they expect them to always be available.  When those parking spaces are cut down to only two spaces, Mayor Knudsen said that it is fundamentally unfair to those businesses.  She agreed with Deputy Mayor Sedon that the dining corrals were never intended to be permanent.  Mayor Knudsen also pointed out that the restaurants still have the option of outdoor dining on the sidewalks adjacent to their establishments.  She feels that the parking spaces should be restored as quickly as possible due to the approaching busy retail season.

 

Ms. Mailander summed everything up by saying there are two Councilmembers in favor of removing the corrals, one undecided, and one who recused himself.  Therefore, the majority has decided that the corrals will be eliminated.  A resolution will be prepared for next week’s meeting to that effect.

 

                        3.         Hybrid Meetings

 

Mayor Knudsen stated that she asked for this item to be placed on the agenda at Councilman Vagianos’s insistence.  Councilman Vagianos began by thanking his Council colleagues for agreeing to place this matter on this evening’s agenda.  He related to Mayor Knudsen that during public comments this evening, there were about 10 people who spoke in favor of hybrid meetings.  He noted that this is an issue that has united people, people who wouldn’t normally “sit on the same side” of any issue.  He said that this is a really important thing to take note of and that the Village Council should not pass over that lightly. 

 

Councilman Vagianos, echoing Mr. Lindenberg’s comments earlier, said that Covid has changed the world.  People have discovered better ways to do things, and Zoom meetings are now the “everyday norm” in the corporate world.  The Ridgewood Library has hybrid access and it has been very well received.  He spoke with Mohamed Mahmoud this evening, who indicated that they allow hybrid access at Board of Education meetings and it is also very well received.  He also stated that many comparisons are made between the Board of Education and Village Council.

 

Councilman Vagianos thanked the members of the League of Women Voters who have appeared many times at meetings to voice their support of hybrid access.  He said Age-Friendly Ridgewood has also voiced support, and stated that the Village wants to be “age friendly.” He stated that the Village Council has an obligation to the citizens in Ridgewood.

 

Councilman Vagianos recalled that Mr. Hansen, who handles IT issues in the Village, estimated that it would cost approximately $7,000.00 to $8,000.00 per year for the Village Council to hold hybrid meetings.  He also recalled Mayor Knudsen’s remark that the Village had to be careful with spending “other people’s money.”  However, he pointed out that the goal of hybrid access is to ensure that those “other people” can see how the Village Council is spending their money, that they can comment and inform Councilmembers whether or not they approve of what they are doing.  He stated that citizens who are disabled, or cannot attend meetings for other reasons, should be given the opportunity to “chime in” with their opinions.

 

Councilman Vagianos said that there are concerns by some Councilmembers that hybrid access will lengthen meetings.  He assured everyone that he himself does not want longer meetings.  He proposed that a 40-minute public comment period be held at the beginning of all meetings, three minutes per person.  That 40-minute limit should not change; the only difference would be that the meetings would start with public comments from the podium, with any remaining time being allotted to those calling in from home.  He proposes the same structure for the end of meetings. People calling in from home would be required to use Zoom so that the Councilmembers can see who is speaking.

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon said that his opinion on this issue has not changed since it was first discussed last year.  He said that the meetings are held in a fully accessible building and that residents have 24/7 email access.  Therefore, residents can comment on any issue anytime they desire.  Residents can call the Village Clerk’s Office and they can write letters.  He said that the Councilmembers are not hiding anything and that residents are not cut off from contacting them. He doesn’t feel that hybrid access is necessary and doesn’t view it as an accessibility issue.

 

Councilwoman Perron stated that emailing or calling a Councilmember is not the same as making a public comment at a meeting because it is not put into the record.  She said that comments via hybrid access should also be on the record.  The Village has the ability at a very reasonable cost to accommodate those residents with disabilities or with children, those who are commuting to work, and those who are on vacation.  She said that it is “axiomatic” that good government encourages public participation.  If the Village Council refuses to allow hybrid access, it will be viewed as hubris, and correctly so. 

 

Councilwoman Perron said that the Village Council needs public input because they “don’t have all the answers.”  Public comments would infuse creativity and new thoughts into meetings.  She urged the Village Council to “listen” to the people who will offer questions and opinions.  She feels that Ridgewood would have a stronger and better government if some form of hybrid access is allowed.  As a compromise, Councilwoman Perron indicated that she was in favor of Councilman Vagianos’s proposal.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds said that many people have asked the Village Council to restore hybrid meetings.  She stated, however, that there has never been a hybrid Village Council meeting.  The only types of meetings they have had have been meetings conducted either 100% via Zoom or 100% in-person.  Notwithstanding that, Councilwoman Reynolds remarked that there are only one or two other towns in Northwest Bergen that offer hybrid meetings.  She said that Ridgewood would be in the majority if it were decided not to have hybrid meetings.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds stated that she now feels stronger than ever that there should not be hybrid meetings.  She acknowledged that Covid has changed the world; however, in the virtual world, Covid has made things worse.  She became emotional when stating that she will not be a part of making this world more virtual.  She stated that children have suffered the most, that people need to get out and do things.  Councilwoman Reynolds stated that if someone has a passion about something, people should attend meetings.  She pointed out that many people came to the meeting this evening, but that she would never encourage hybrid meetings.

 

Mayor Knudsen called a point of order since many people were having conversations in the audience and getting up and down, which she stated was disruptive.  She said that in March 2020, when Covid became a reality for everyone, Ridgewood officials worked feverishly and tirelessly behind the scenes to get everyone up and running via Zoom so that Village business could continue seamlessly.  She echoed Councilwoman Reynolds’ comments that hybrid meetings have never been held.  By the summer of 2021, they were striving to get back to in-person meetings, with interaction and collaboration, which was successfully done.  The Planning Board, Board of Education, and other committees went back to in-person meetings. 

 

Mayor Knudsen said that the suggestion that certain people can’t attend meetings and comment, or that these meetings are not accessible to everyone, is simply not true.  She recalled many meetings with absolute no members of the public present, as well as some other meetings where there were about 600 in attendance. 

 

Mayor Knudsen recalled a recent Community ACCESS Network meeting where someone showed up who had never attended a meeting before, when they were working on housing and job opportunities for the special needs population, who decided to “pop in” and discuss hybrid meetings.  This individual charged that hybrid meetings were cut in June of 2021 and that Zoom attendance went from 100 attendees down to 10.  Mayor Knudsen said that that wasn’t true since the Village Council has never held hybrid meetings and that there was nothing to support the Zoom attendance allegation. 

 

Mayor Knudsen stated that there have been Zoom meetings with 2 attendees, 20 attendees, or 30 attendees, and since in-person meetings were restored in June 2021, there have been times when there were no members of the public in attendance and times when there have been 40 people in the audience.  Mayor Knudsen said that there was no “rhyme nor reason” to the number of attendees at any particular meeting.  She does not feel this is an access issue and stated that the meetings are fully accessible and Village Hall is fully compliant with the law.  She also stated that allowing people in the audience to speak before hearing from a “virtual audience” was discriminatory.  She stated that phone-in callers would feel like “second class citizens.”

 

Mayor Knudsen recalled an email she received from a resident who stated that they had never been to a Village Council meeting but, if they did, they didn’t want to have to get out of their pajamas to attend a meeting.  She said that everyone needs to get out into the world to conduct business, interact with humans, eat in restaurants, shop in stores, and just “live.”  She indicated that the Councilmembers appreciate residents who come to meetings to speak, and she made reference to the approximately 10 people who spoke this evening at the beginning of the meeting. 

 

Besides the people who have voiced their support of hybrid access, Mayor Knudsen stated that there are numerous people who have contacted her to ask her not to allow hybrid access, stating that Zoom meetings are difficult to watch and hard to follow.  People have told her that if they have something to say, they will either attend a meeting in person or send an email.  She said the $8,000.00 projected cost to hold hybrid meetings, when added to other large expenditures, adds up to a large tax increase for the taxpayers of Ridgewood.  She concluded by stating that everyone needs to start working together and to live.

 

Councilman Vagianos stated that the world has changed dramatically in the last 15 to 20 years and that the internet is here to stay.  He mentioned his restaurant and how much he enjoys seeing people coming out to eat.  When GrubHub, Uber Eats and Door Dash began operations, Councilman Vagianos said he didn’t want anything to do with them.  However, when he finally did “give them a try,” he discovered that many customers wanted the option to dine in or do takeout.  These companies give residents greater access and greater opportunity, which the internet has allowed for everyone. 

 

Councilman Vagianos stated that the desire to go back to “normal” is like “pushing against a tide.”  The world is moving forward, and the Village Council needs to move forward with it.  Even though other towns have not gotten into hybrid access, that doesn’t mean Ridgewood cannot do so.  He agreed with Councilwoman Reynolds that it is very important for everyone to go outside and be active.  He looks forward to the time when masks will not be required anymore. 

 

Councilman Vagianos said that the Village needs to adapt to the “new norm.”  He said that while hybrid access will not necessarily happen at the current time, it will eventually happen.  Councilman Vagianos said that he will abide by his promise not to bring up this issue again and would respect the opinions of his colleagues.  However, he promised to bring it up again once a new Village Council has been seated.  He again thanked his Village Council colleagues for putting this matter on this evening’s agenda.

 

Mayor Knudsen mentioned that the Village Council is very similar to the Board of Education, but in many ways they are different.  One of the differences is that the Village Council allows for public hearings, comments from residents which need to be heard by the public.  She said that the Village Council should not begin discriminating against “which public” should be participating in those public hearings; i.e., those who are physically attending meetings and those who are attending virtually.  The Board of Education does not conduct public hearings but do allow call-in comments.  When Village Council Zoom meetings were conducted, those meetings were open to the public.

 

Councilman Vagianos countered by saying that all judicial proceedings are currently done via Zoom.  There is nothing “so sacred” which is stated at Village Council meetings that precludes the use of hybrid meetings.  It should be done the same way as every legal judicial proceeding in the State of New Jersey.  He addressed some of the remarks made by Mayor Knudsen relating to discrimination.  Councilman Vagianos said that she was “technically correct” that there has never been a hybrid Village Council meeting.  However, the point is that hybrid access would bring more people into the “tent.” 

 

Councilman Vagianos stated that there are a lot of people who are not as fortunate as some who can physically attend meetings.  Regarding the fact that Village Hall is fully accessible, Councilman Vagianos stated that some people face many barriers starting at their front door and occurring all the way to the front door of Village Hall.  Some people face barriers that have nothing to do with being handicapped, such as not having enough time due to other obligations.

 

                        4.         Policy on Masks in Village Buildings

 

Ms. Mailander stated that due to decreasing numbers of Covid positive cases, effective March 7, 2022, the mask policy in all Village buildings will be “Masks Recommended But Not Required for Both Vaccinated and Unvaccinated People.”  This policy will also pertain to all meetings and classes held in Village buildings.  This is in line with Governor Murphy’s lifting of the mask mandate in schools and the policy which Ridgewood Public Schools will follow.

 

            E.        OPERATIONS

 

                        1.         Appointment to Ridgewood ACCESS Committee

 

Mayor Knudsen explained that before June 16, 2016, the Community ACCESS Network had been meeting for a couple of years, and it was formalized in June 2016. At that time, only a Chairperson was appointed, who was charged with the task of appointing a Vice-Chairperson.  There are many long-time members of the group. 

 

In the latter part of 2021, Mayor Knudsen decided that there should be more structure and direction for ACCESS, assigned with the task of continuing to look for affordable, viable special needs housing, which they successfully accomplished in 2022.  They worked with United Way and Madeline House, and collaborated with Onyx and the Village of Ridgewood for construction of the Ridgewood Commons, comprised of 16 units designated for the special needs population (8 independent units and 8 supportive units).  The ACCESS Committee has performed a lot of advocacy work and has established programs dealing with future planning for special needs individuals as they enter adulthood, including long-term financial planning, educational opportunities, job fairs, and job training.

 

Mayor Knudsen explained that these tasks were done so that the members of the special needs community had opportunities for not only living, but also for working and socializing.  Mayor Knudsen has prepared a resolution designating the structural organization of the committee, including a Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Secretary and Treasurer.  The reason that ACCESS requires a Treasurer is because, for many years, they have held “ACCESS Weekend,” which includes a fundraising element.  Mayor Knudsen indicated that she will send the proposed resolution to all Councilmembers and apologized for not submitting it sooner. 

 

To ensure continuity and formal structure, and also to acknowledge the hard work and achievements of the committee members, Mayor Knudsen would like the longstanding members of the committee to be appointed to these formal titled positions, with terms running concurrently for the same length of time.  Most of these members have children or family members in the special needs community.

 

Councilwoman Perron mentioned that appointments to specific positions in committees are usually staggered, and she was wondering why this could not also be done with the ACCESS Committee.  Mayor Knudsen said that she has worked with Inez Bunza, the Chairperson, and Robin Ritter, the Vice Chairperson, and they have recommended this formalization.  It is really focused on acknowledgement and recognition of the members’ many years of contributions towards supporting the special needs community. 

 

Mayor Knudsen indicated that she has been the Council Liaison for the ACCESS Committee since 2016.  Mayor Knudsen said that she would speak to the members of the ACCESS Committee to get their thoughts on possibly staggering the positions.  There is one member of the committee from the LSHSA (Learning Services Home and School Association) which serves the special needs population in Ridgewood Public Schools.

 

6.         REVIEW OF MARCH 9, 2022 PUBLIC MEETING AGENDA

 

Ms. Mailander reviewed the items on the March 9, 2022 Public Meeting Agenda.  There are several Proclamations:  Proclaim March Red Cross Month, Proclaim March Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and Proclaim March 20-26, 2022 as National Poison Prevention Week.   Fire Lieutenant Brian Peacock, Fire Captain Justin O’Connor, and Fire Chief John Judge will all be sworn in at the March 9, 2022 meeting.  There will be an introduction of the 2022 Budget, with a Budget Message and a PowerPoint presentation, and introduction of an Ordinance to establish a CAP Bank.

 

Resolutions include:  Approve Temporary Water Utility Capital Budget; Approve Temporary General Capital Budget; Approve Temporary Parking Utility Capital Budget; Authorize Three-Year Revenue Average for 2022 Budget; and Approve 2022 Municipal Budget and Set April 13, 2022 as the Date for the Public Hearing Thereon.

 

Ordinances for Introduction for Ridgewood Water include:  Bond Ordinance for Water Utility Capital and Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Water Rates & PFAS Treatment Charges.

 

There are no public hearings on Ordinances for Ridgewood Water. Resolutions for Ridgewood Water include:  Title 59 Approval and Approval of Contract for Annual PFAS Laboratory Analysis Services; Title 59 Approval and Award of Contract for Annual Laboratory Analysis Services; Title 59 Approval and Award of Contract for Annual HVAC Maintenance for the Village of Ridgewood and Ridgewood Water; Award Contract Under National Joint Powers Alliance Cooperative Pricing System – Maintenance of Various Backup Generators; and Authorize Agreement with Bergen County for the Greenwood Avenue Bridge Replacement Project for the Water Main Relocation.

 

Several Ordinances are scheduled for introduction:  Bond Ordinance for General Capital; Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Sewer Connection Fees; Amend Chapter 260 – Trees and Shrubs; Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Trees and Shrubs; Amend Chapter 190 – Land Use and Development – Zoning Map; Amend Chapter 265 Vehicles and Traffic – Permit Parking – Extended Parking for Ridgewood Residents in Central Business District and Residential Zones; and Designating The Valley Hospital Property as an Area in Need of Redevelopment.

 

Ms. Mailander said that Ordinances set for Public Hearing include:  Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Time Limit Parking on Doremus Avenue; Amend Chapter 222 – Power Tools, Landscaping, and Yard Maintenance Equipment; Long-Term Leasing of Village Parking Spaces for Commercial Dumpsters in the Chestnut Street Lot; and Amend Chapter 145, Fees – Fees for Lease of Parking Spaces for Dumpsters in the Chestnut Street Lot.

 

Resolutions include:  Title 59 Approval and Award of Contract for Irrigation System Services for Parks and Recreation; Award Contract Under County Contract for Tree Trimming Services – The View at Crest Road; Award Contract – Noise-Absorbing Panels for Glen Pickleball Courts (uncertain); Declare Property Surplus for Streets Department; Declare Property Surplus for the Parks Department; Accept New Tree Species for Screening Berm and Landscaping at the Schedler Property; Authorize Cleanup of Gypsy/Kings Pond Park; Appoint Members to Ridgewood ACCESS Committee; and possibly Appointing Member to the Project Pride Committee.

 

Ms. Mailander announced that they may have to authorize the submission of the Recycling Tonnage Grant, which is an annual resolution which allows the Recycling Center to receive the grant.  The need for a resolution by the governing body may have been eliminated.  If this resolution is not needed, then the grant will be accepted without such a resolution.

 

7.         COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

Douglas Goodell, 234 Mulberry Place, stated that he couldn’t understand which property the Village Council was talking about regarding redevelopment, attributing his confusion to the sound system in the room.  Mayor Knudsen explained that the property in discussion was the hospital site on North Van Dien Avenue.  Mr. Goodell said that he had no other comments as he thought that they had been talking about the Maple Avenue property.  Mayor Knudsen indicated that discussions will continue regarding the Maple Avenue property.

 

Mr. Goodell said that he was concerned about “areas in need of redevelopment.”  He said that it was a mechanism for simplifying things and for abuse, which he stated they have witnessed in Ho-Ho-Kus.  Redevelopment requires, as a basis, that the property be one not likely to be subject to private development.  Unless and until that is demonstrated, Mr. Goodell feels that action should not be taken to designate a property as an area in need of redevelopment.  There are mechanisms for zone changes and variance changes and, until those options are exhausted, there is no reason to suppose that properties could not be developed privately.  He said that he wouldn’t be surprised if the property on Van Dien Avenue fell into the same fate as the Maple Avenue property.

 

Mr. Rogers, Village Attorney, mentioned that that is not one of the criteria as it relates to an area in need of redevelopment (that an area is not likely to be subject to private development).  In fact, he stated that the purpose of declaring a property as an area in need of redevelopment is to allow for controlled private development.

 

Mayor Knudsen took the opportunity to thank Mr. Rogers for joining the Ho-Ho-Kus Planning Board meeting on Monday evening (February 28, 2022) where there were also approximately 40 Ridgewood residents in attendance via Zoom.  She stated that all Ridgewood residents did an amazing job stating their case and points of view.

 

Kathryn Schmidt, 123 South Irving Street, stated that she was absolutely “floored” by the comments she heard this evening regarding hybrid meetings.  She indicated that those who do not support hybrid meetings insist upon people physically attending meetings.  She stated that there were many people attending the meeting this evening voicing their support of hybrid meetings.  Ms. Schmidt said that she wonders if it really “matters” when residents make public comments and if the Village Council is really listening to what the public is saying.  She wondered how decisions were being made if the Village Councilmembers were not really hearing what people were saying.

 

Ms. Schmidt said that, referring to Deputy Mayor Sedon’s remarks, conversations at the Stop & Shop do not constitute remarks made on the public record.  She asked where remarks made by people opposed to hybrid meetings are shown in the record.  She is astonished because residents have done what the Village Council has asked them to do, physically attending meetings to voice their opinions and concerns.  She feels like everyone is just being ignored.

 

Ms. Schmidt said that she appreciated Councilwoman Reynolds’ remarks that everyone needs to get back to normal; however, Ms. Schmidt questioned what “getting back to normal” means.  She said that her world has changed and that, whether due to paranoia or her age, she was not sure whether being in a large crowd would ever feel “normal” to her again.  She recalled some things in the past which were not “normal” – women working, two-income families, communicating via email – but today these things are normal.  She was hopeful that perhaps the Village Council would consider a pilot hybrid access program to see if the objections to hybrid access are valid or not.

 

Siobhan Crann Winograd, 274 Ivy Place, said that she was extremely sad about the outcome of hybrid access.  She stated that these meetings have become a “post truth era” and a “bully pulpit.”  The Village Council has insisted that people appear in person at meetings, yet these same people are “mocked” while they are at meetings.  Statements are attributed to people that aren’t true.  One of her neighbors was mocked because she could not find her reading glasses and another resident was mocked because they were wearing pajamas. 

 

Ms. Crann Winograd said that everyone is assuming that hybrid access equates to “Zoom.” However, if the Councilmembers had addressed her very lengthy email to them in June 2021, they would be aware that “hybrid access” can mean many things.  She that that the Village Council has certainly run hybrid meetings, by receiving written comments, for example.  “Hybrid” does not always mean “Zoom.”  Old-school techniques can constitute a hybrid meeting.

 

Ms. Crann Winograd stated that she also has concerns about Zoom.  She has never even bought an X-Box for her children and has led an “anti-Chromebook” campaign; she was also a “late bloomer” as it relates to children having cellphones.  She said that people in support of hybrid access are not obsessed with technology or interested in hurting their kids.  Ms. Crann Winograd stated that everyone wants to get back to normal, but conversations need to be “rooted in reality and safe.”  She said that Village Council meetings have become a “bully pulpit.”  She stated that her father, who was disabled with post-polio syndrome, was very active in discussions regarding housing and other matters.

 

Ms. Crann Winograd stated that the Village Council’s “intimidation tactics” and trying to silence people are atrocious.  She said that Councilmembers are not fulfilling their responsibilities to enable communication with the older population.  She mentioned how difficult it was for Ann Melone to attend this evening’s meeting.  She stated that everyone wants Covid to be over, but it is not yet over. 

 

Anne Burton Walsh, 112 South Irving Street, thanked the Village Council for putting the issue of hybrid access on the agenda.  She stated that she liked Councilman Vagianos’s suggestion that people who are calling in must do it via Zoom so that everyone can see their face, as well as limiting the time periods for the public comments portion of the meeting.  She stated that children are different than adults and that she shared Councilwoman Reynolds’ concerns about the use of technology with educating children.  She said that she and her mother have advocated for years against the use of “screen technology” in K-12 education.  They also opposed the Chromebook initiative and are currently advocating for face-to-face world language instruction in K-5 where the children have been using computer software for the past 10 years to do their lessons, which she claims is ineffective.

 

Ms. Walsh stated that hybrid access has become widespread due to Covid, used by Corporate America, law firms, and court systems.  Her friend who is employed in the New York Court System stated that they will continue hybrid access and will never return to in-person court hearings, except for jury trials. 

 

Bob Fuhrman, 49 Clinton Avenue, addressed the issue of double parking.  He stated that if he parks his car next to a dining corral, he would be considered to be double parked.  The same would hold true if he parked his car behind three cars that are parked in designated parking spots. 

 

Mr. Fuhrman stated that he also wanted to address the issue of hybrid access.  He urged viewers of tonight’s meeting to make note of the three Councilmembers who voted against hybrid meetings, and to remember this when the November election rolls around.  Mr. Fuhrman spoke about the remarks indicating that there were many people opposed to hybrid access and wondered where those people were.

 

Lillian Blood, 250 North Maple Avenue, said she wanted to talk about transparency.  She cannot understand why the Village Council will not approve hybrid meetings.  She is confused because the Village Councilmembers state that they want people to be involved in what is occurring in Ridgewood, yet they do not care to listen to people who cannot physically attend meetings.  She said that she can attend meetings because she doesn’t live far away and has no disabilities. 

 

Ms. Blood indicated that she enjoys in-person meetings; however, she stated that her “rose-colored glasses” have been broken. She had been warned about hybrid meetings being rejected but she had refused to believe that. She was warned by friends that members of the Village Council do not want people to know what is going on.  This saddens her because she always communicates with Village Councilmembers and is upset that people who cannot physically attend meetings do not have the opportunity to make comments that are made a part of the public record.

 

Matthew Lindenberg, 165 Claremont Road, offered his “congratulations” to the Village Council. He mentioned that during the last two years of the pandemic, there have been very few good things which have happened.  However, two good things that come to mind were the expansion of the outdoor dining options in Ridgewood and the increased accessibility afforded to residents so that they could participate in a wider variety of things, through the convenience of technology. Mr. Lindenberg stated that in “one fell swoop,” the Village Council has gotten rid of all of this.  He didn’t agree that “things should be the way they have always been.”  He stated that the Village Council doesn’t care about people with disabilities.  He told viewers to remember this when the time comes for November elections.

 

Boyd A. Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that there were comments heard from the dais this evening about the differences between the Board of Education and the Village Council with respect to public hearings.  However, he stated that the Ridgewood Board of Education does indeed conduct public hearings, with the most recent ones being on January 25, 2021 and on February 10, 2020, although they are not held as frequently as the public hearings during Village Council meetings.

 

In addition, Mr. Loving stated that he attended almost every Village Council meeting prior to March 2020 (dating back to 2000), but he has never seen an instance when he has tried to attend a Village Council meeting and the downstairs door has been locked, necessitating his having to be buzzed in by the Police Department.  This is what occurred to him this evening.  He said that it was alarming to him that people are being “intimidated at the door” and not allowed in until buzzed in by the Police Department.  He asked if this action was something new, was in response to a threat, or was per the direction of the Village Manager with respect to making accessibility to Village Council meetings difficult.

 

No one else came forward for public comments and Mayor Knudsen closed the public portion of the meeting.  Mayor Knudsen indicated that she was not sure why the door was locked and that it was an error, but it certainly was not done to keep anyone out of the meeting.  Ms. Mailander also indicated that she would never lock anyone out of the building. 

 

Mayor Knudsen stated that non-approval of hybrid access is not in any way an issue of transparency.  She reminded everyone that people who are politicizing a topic, subject or agenda item should be carefully watched to see what their individual agendas are.  She insisted that she was not mocking anyone.

 

8.         RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION

 

Deputy Clerk Eileen Young read Resolution #22-80, to go into Closed Session as follows:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9.         ADJOURNMENT

 

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Deputy Mayor Sedon, seconded by Councilwoman Perron, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Work Session was adjourned at 9:47 P.M.

 

 

 

                                                                                                                                                           

                                                                                                Susan Knudsen

                                                                                                                     Mayor

 

 

 

                                                                       

Eileen Young

Deputy Village Clerk