20221102 - Village Council Public Work Session Minutes
A REGULAR PUBLIC WORK SESSION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY, ON NOVEMBER 2, 2022 AT 7:30 P.M.
1. CALL TO ORDER – OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS ACT – ROLL CALL – FLAG SALUTE
Mayor Knudsen called the meeting to order at 7:32 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. At roll call the following were present: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen. Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; Eileen Young, Deputy Village Clerk; and Matt Rogers, Village Attorney.
Mayor Knudsen led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag. There was a moment of silence for all men and women serving our great nation and for all first responders.
2. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Mayor Knudsen reminded everyone about the Rules of Decorum during a Village Council meeting. Councilman Vagianos added that people should speak with respect to everyone.
Rurik Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, spoke about parking in the Central Business District (CBD). He said that the parking situation in the CBD is unsustainable, compared to towns such as Westwood and Summit, both of which have viable downtown areas. He stated that the debt obligation on the Hudson Street Garage forces the Village to charge $1.25 per hour for parking, an amount which he said is untenable and is driving people away from Ridgewood. He specifically blamed Councilwoman Reynolds and Mayor Knudsen, who fought the original design of the larger parking garage. The smaller garage which was built cost $60,000 per space versus the $35,000 per space with the larger garage. The completion of the garage was delayed by five years. He stated that the original design of the garage was much more “in keeping” with Ridgewood’s architecture.
At this point, Deputy Mayor Perron called a point of order and reminded Mr. Halaby that he could not name anyone on the dais specifically, but could address the Village Council in general terms. Mr. Rogers indicated that members of the public are allowed to criticize an individual Village Councilmember about a vote, but must abide by the Rules of Decorum and be respectful when making comments. The public cannot disrupt the peaceful and smooth order of the meeting. Councilman Vagianos reminded everyone that all decisions made by the Village Council are made by the Village Council as a whole, not by any one Councilmember.
Mr. Halaby stated that he was making reference to the petition that Councilwoman Reynolds led six years ago regarding the parking garage. He stated that he has never called anyone a liar, as he has been called by a member of the Village Council.
Mayor Knudsen called another point of order because of the way Mr. Halaby was speaking.
Mr. Halaby began speaking again about the parking situation in the CBD and the parking garage. Regarding the Schedler property, he stated that the Knudsen Re-Election website states that Schedler Park is on budget and on schedule. Mr. Halaby said that there is no such budget or schedule. He said he would like to see those documents if they are available. He stated that the “Knudsen Campaign” is working very hard to scare voters with the threat of overdevelopment if Mayor Knudsen is not re-elected. He asked if he could be provided with a list of such developments or whether the list is “another secret.”
Regarding the petition with 50 signatures from businesses in the CBD who are opposed to reinstatement of the pedestrian plaza, Mr. Halaby stated that if Mayor Knudsen has referred to it and if Councilwoman Reynolds has acknowledged its existence, then it becomes a public document and should be made available to the public. He said that the allegation that businesses will be threatened if the petition is made public is “unadulterated malarkey.”
There were no further comments from the public.
Mayor Knudsen mentioned that there was a vote on the original plans for the parking garage and it was voted down by majority vote. She said that this was a result of democracy. She also mentioned that the financials for the Schedler property are posted on the Village website. Mayor Knudsen stands by her position that this project is on budget and on time.
3. MANAGER’S REPORT
Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that the General Election will be held on November 8, 2022. Polls will be open from 6:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. Sample ballots have been mailed out to all registered voters. The ballots list the appropriate polling place for residents in different areas of the Village. Anyone with questions should contact the Village Clerk’s Office at 201-670-5500, extension 2205. Early voting is available through November 6, 2022 in various locations throughout Bergen County. Ridgewood residents may vote early at any of these locations. She urged everyone to refer to her most recent E-notice which lists all of the locations in Bergen County for early voting.
The annual leaf flyer, a bright yellow postcard, has been mailed out to all Village residents. The flyer lists leaf placement dates for all areas. She urged everyone to adhere to the scheduled dates for leaf placement. Leaf pickup will occur after the leaf placement dates. Updated placement dates are posted on the Village website. Anyone with questions may log onto the Village website at www.ridgewoodnj.net and click on the “Yard Waste and Leaf Collection” tile for any updates.
Ridgewood’s “Living Our Best Selves - Annual Health and Resource Fair for Older Adults” will be held on November 3, 2022 from 9:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. in the Community Center at Village Hall. The Care Coordinator of the Bergen County Division of Senior Services will give a presentation on services available for older adults and caregivers at 9:15 A.M. The Ridgewood Senior Bus will provide transportation to this event for older adults in Ridgewood, who should call in advance to make a reservation at 201-670-5500, extension 2203.
On November 7, 2022, there will be a Covid-19 booster clinic. Interested individuals must register no later than November 4, 2022 at 8:30 A.M.
On November 11, 2022, at 11:00 A.M. in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square, American Legion Post 53 will host a Veteran’s Day service. All are invited to attend, to honor those who have served in the Armed Services to protect our freedom.
Ms. Mailander announced that all Village departments and offices will be closed on November 11th in observance of Veteran’s Day. There will be no recycling or garbage pickup on that day, and the Recycling Center will be closed. She urged everyone to check the Village Calendar for garbage pickup and recycling schedule changes due to the holiday.
On November 13, 2022, the Annual Giving Thanks Ridgewood Elder Dinner, an in-person, sit-down dinner, will be held at the Old Paramus Reformed Church on East Glen Avenue from 3:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. Registration is required by November 4, 2022 by calling the Parks and Recreation Department at 201-670-5560. The dinner is limited to the first 90 guests and, as of yesterday, there were 30 spaces left. The Senior Bus is available for transportation, and interested individuals should call 201-670-5500, extension 2203. Ms. Mailander stated that this is a great opportunity for older adults to get together and celebrate Thanksgiving, while enjoying musical entertainment and a nutritious, delicious homecooked meal.
On November 19, 2022, there will be a drive-through mobile shredding event held at the Graydon Pool parking lot from 9:00 A.M. to 12:30 P.M., or until the truck is full. Ms. Mailander encouraged everyone to go earlier rather than later to this event, as the truck often fills up before 12:30 P.M. Residents should remain in their vehicles, with documents placed in the trunk of their cars. Items should be placed in a paper bag or cardboard box only (no plastic bags are allowed). There is a limit of four file-sized boxes per vehicle. Staff will bring the documents to the truck for shredding. The company is called Confidential Shredding, and all documents will be securely shredded. It is free to all Ridgewood residents and businesses.
On November 26, 2022, the Ridgewood Guild will hold its Winterfest and “Small Business Saturday” from 12:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M.
On December 2, 2022, from 6:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M., “Downtown for the Holidays” will be held in the Central Business District. There will be “Village Trucks on Holiday,” a pedestrian plaza from East Ridgewood Avenue to Broad Street, along with music, S’mores in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square, and Santa at various locations. On the west side, there will be more “Village Trucks on Holiday” and a “Kids Corner” with activities for children.
Upcoming Village Council meetings are broadcast live from the Village Hall Courtroom, on the Village website, on FIOS Channel 34 and YouTube. The next Village Council Work Session will be held on December 7, 2022 at 7:30 P.M. The next Public Meetings are scheduled for November 9 and December 14, 2022 at 8:00 P.M.
4. COUNCIL REPORTS
Deputy Mayor Perron stated that the Chamber of Commerce held its Halloween celebration in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square on Saturday, October 29, 2022. It was packed with children and families. In attendance was a magician, “The Great Linguini,” and a woman with a parrot. The costumes were hilarious.
Councilman Vagianos indicated that he met with the Fields Committee yesterday and the main topic of discussion was field maintenance and survival, since there is limited field space and the existing fields are overused. They embarked on a new pilot program this year, where four turf blankets were purchased to protect four fields: Somerville (on the south end), Kenilworth (in the middle), Brookside (north end) and Benjamin Franklin Middle School field. It is hoped that these turf blankets will help the fields survive the winter. He asked everyone using the fields adjacent to these locations to respect the turf blankets, which were expensive. If these blankets prove successful in protecting the fields, additional blankets will be purchased in the future.
Councilman Vagianos indicated that he, Deputy Mayor Perron and Mayor Knudsen attended the Blue Star Dinner hosted by the American Legion on Friday evening. He explained that Blue Star Families are families which have a family member in active service. He said that it wonderful to hear stories of where these military men and women are serving around the world and the work that they are performing. At Mayor Knudsen’s suggestion, food in the buffet line was served by Mayor Knudsen, Deputy Mayor Perron and Councilman Vagianos.
Councilwoman Reynolds stated that the Planning Board met on November 1, 2022. They adopted three resolutions. The first concerned the application for the Bethlehem Evangelical Lutheran Church, located at 155 Linwood Avenue, for paving and striping the existing parking lot, lighting improvements, and changes to the landscaping. The second resolution was a revised resolution for Tasko Enterprises at 315 East Glen Avenue. The third resolution pertained to adoption of the Village of Ridgewood Master Plan. The signage in the HC Zone was also discussed, which will be coming before the Village Council next week.
Councilwoman Reynolds indicated that Project Pride Committee members will be in the CBD on Sunday, November 6, 2022, starting at 7:30 A.M., cleaning out the planters for the winter. She hoped that visitors to the CBD would respect the planters during the winter and not use them as trash cans or ashtrays. Anyone interested in volunteering an hour or two of their time to help out should contact Councilwoman Reynolds.
Councilwoman Reynolds stated that she was proud to have been one of the people to spearhead the petition to stop the original plans for the large parking garage. She mentioned that the original plans called for a garage which was 18 feet wider than what was ultimately built. She reminded everyone that Hudson Street is 30 feet wide, and if the original plans had gone through, Hudson Street would have been narrowed to 18 feet. With the smaller parking garage, there is parking on both sides of Hudson Street, which is a one-way street. If the original plans for the garage had passed, there would have been no street parking on this one-way street. It is her belief that at no time should a street be narrowed, since it greatly impacts safety. When the garage was finally built, residents knew that the only way it could be funded was either by raising taxes or raising parking meter rates. The Village Councilmembers at that time indicated that they did not wish to raise taxes to pay for the parking garage and, therefore, it was understood that the garage would be funded through revenue gained from parking meters. Councilwoman Reynolds stated that she believes the parking garage would have been used more in the past had it not been for the Covid-19 pandemic.
Regarding large housing developments in the Village, Councilwoman Reynolds assured everyone that there are developers “waiting in the wings” to build large developments in Ridgewood. She indicated that just one day after she was elected to the Village Council in May, 2020, she received numerous calls from developers wishing to meet and discuss housing developments in the Village.
Having served more than 14 years on local land use boards, including the Village Zoning Board and Planning Board, Mayor Knudsen indicated that another significant factor in opposing the massive parking garage was that 392 more cars would have been added to vehicular traffic in that area, Along with Hudson Street being significantly narrowed, this would have created a “traffic nightmare.” The original Hudson Street lot had between 79-89 parking spots.
Mayor Knudsen echoed Councilman Vagianos’s comments about the Blue Star Families Dinner, stating that it is one of the most humbling events she has ever attended. She said that if anyone knows of a family with a family member serving in one of the military branches of the Armed Forces, they should refer them to American Legion Post 53 for support.
Mayor Knudsen pointed out that during last week’s Village Council meeting, due to technical difficulties with YouTube auto start, the public comments portion of the meeting did not record or broadcast properly. The YouTube video only started when she started commenting about “technical difficulties.” She thanked the Village Manager and Dylan Hansen, Director of the IT Department, for fixing the issue and uploading the entire meeting to YouTube.
Mayor Knudsen offered congratulations to the Ridgewood Fire Department on their 125th anniversary and thanked all members for their service to the community.
Councilwoman Reynolds made a motion to suspend the Work Session and convene a Special Public Meeting, seconded by Councilman Vagianos.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilwoman Reynolds made a motion to adjourn the Special Public Meeting and reconvene the Work Session, seconded by Councilman Vagianos.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
5. DISCUSSION
A. RIDGEWOOD WATER
1. AWARD CONTRACT – ROOF REPAIRS – VARIOUS FACILITIES
Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract for roof repairs to various Ridgewood Water facilities. This is the fifth year of continuing roof repairs, with 25 roof repairs having been done over the past four years. This year, there are two more facilities which need roof repairs (Linwood and College Well Facilities). Three quotes were obtained ranging from $21,500.00 to $26,500.00. It is recommended that a contract be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder, American Construction Chimney & Roofing Specialist of Cliffside Park, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $21,500.00. Funding is contained in the Water Utility Capital Budget.
B. PARKING
1. HOLIDAY PARKING IN CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT
Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to holiday parking in the Central Business District. The recommendation is to provide free parking to customers on the second and third floors of the Hudson Street Garage on the Saturdays in December leading up to Christmas (December 3, December 10, December 17 and December 24). It is hoped that providing this free parking will encourage customers to park in the garage and increase usage of the garage in the future.
Councilwoman Reynolds noted that the free parking is limited to three hours. She felt that people should be encouraged to spend several hours shopping and dining. She wondered if this time limitation could be eliminated or extended. Ms. Mailander said that this certainly could be done, at the direction of the Village Council. Mayor Knudsen said that her only concern is that employees may choose to park there all day long on these dates.
Councilman Vagianos asked if anyone knew how full the second and third floors of the parking garage get on a Saturday. Ms. Mailander replied that the first and fourth floors are usually full, but was not sure how full the second and third floors get. Employees pay to park every day on the fourth floor of the parking garage. Councilman Vagianos said that Village Council initiatives to offer free parking in the past have not usually achieved the desired results, since once employees hear about the free parking, they get to the parking garage early in the morning and occupy the spaces all day long, leaving shoppers and diners without any place to park. He stated that if those floors are full on a busy Saturday, then the free parking would achieve the opposite effect. He said that while the intention is good, it always backfires. Ms. Mailander said that she would inquire of the Parking Enforcement Officers (PEOs) and Police Sergeant Chuck whether or not they knew if the second and third floors of the parking garage are usually full on a Saturday.
Councilwoman Reynolds said that employees will park for free if they can. She asked if employees have just a hang tag for their vehicles or if they have a sticker as well. Ms. Mailander replied that employees have both a hang tag and a sticker. Councilwoman Reynolds stated that the stickers cannot easily be removed and, therefore, employee vehicles would be easily identified if they were parked on the second or third floors. Ms. Mailander said that it was up to the Village Councilmembers whether or not they wanted to allow employees to park for free on the second or third floors, which would free up the areas where they would normally park (fourth floor, on the street or in another lot). Employees could be barred from parking in the free areas, but the employee would have to have a sticker and hang tag on their vehicle in order for anyone to know they were an employee.
Deputy Mayor Perron remarked that limiting parking to three hours is a “disincentive” to employees. She also pointed out that when the Central Business District Advisory Committee (CBDAC) went on their field trip to Summit, they noted that all parking lots in Summit have a limit of five hours, with the first hour being free. She would like to go ahead with the free parking with either a three- or five-hour maximum limit. Mayor Knudsen said that she was more inclined to be in favor of a five-hour limit or even a four-hour limit.
Mayor Knudsen suggested that perhaps a person could be stationed at the entrance to the parking garage to welcome people coming into the garage and to inform them that parking is free for shoppers and diners, but not for employees. Councilman Vagianos said that the Ridgewood Police would consider the free parking an “enforcement nightmare.” He cautioned against instituting the free parking, although he acknowledged that it was offered with good intentions. However, he said that he would abide by any decision made by the other Councilmembers. A discussion ensued about the pros and cons of offering free parking.
2. NON-RESIDENT PARKING PERMITS
Ms. Mailander stated that this item deals with non-resident parking permits. Ordinance #3883, adopted in December of 2021, permitted non-residents to purchase both Premium and Non-Premium Parking Permits. It also stated that non-residents could purchase these parking permits after January 15th of the year. The ordinance also stated that the ability of non-residents to purchase Ridgewood Premium and Non-Premium Parking Permits would expire on December 31, 2022. The Village Council has already decided to allow non-residents to continue purchasing both Premium and Non-Premium Parking Permits, and a new ordinance must be adopted to remove the wording about the expiration date, so that non-residents would continue to be permitted to purchase such permits. The Village Council must also decide whether or not non-resident Premium and Non-Premium Parking Permits should be sold at the same time as they are sold to Ridgewood residents, which is usually in mid-December.
Councilwoman Reynolds felt that the parking permits should all be sold at the same time to both residents and non-residents. Deputy Mayor Perron asked if the maximum number of permits were sold this year, and Ms. Mailander indicated that not all permits were sold. Deputy Mayor Perron stated that, in that case, she would go along with selling the permits at the same time. Mayor Knudsen agreed. It was also agreed that the expiration date for non-residents to purchase Premium and Non-Premium Parking Permits would be designated as December 31, 2023.
C. BUDGET
1. THIRD QUARTER FINANCIAL UPDATE
Mr. Rooney gave a third quarter financial update. He indicated that he furnished the Village Councilmembers with revenue and expense financial statements for the Current (General) Fund, Water Utility Fund and Parking Utility Fund as of September 30, 2022. Regarding Current Fund revenues, Mr. Rooney said that local revenues are very favorable, about 87% of what was anticipated. Some items have been affected by timing and billing factors (Other Licenses and Sewer Use Fees – Outside Hookups). Mr. Rooney explained that State Aid was anticipated in the 2022 Budget in the amount of $1,867,322.00, and State Aid received as of September 30, 2022 totaled $849,020.00. He said that the balance of the payment by the State is dependent upon how the Village responds to the Best Practices Worksheet. However, he anticipates receiving the full amount of the State Aid based upon the positive answers provided in the worksheet. In the category of “Other Special Items,” Mr. Rooney stated that the Village has received approximately 97% of what had been anticipated. Receipts from delinquent taxes are approximately 84% of what was anticipated. The amount to be raised by taxation and Public Library tax has been calculated at 75%, but the tax collection percentage is on target. Total revenues anticipated through September 30, 2022 are at 77% of what had been anticipated.
Regarding Current Fund appropriations, Mr. Rooney stated that some items are above what was anticipated in the 2022 Budget. Some salary and wage line items are still subject to allocation from other funds. Village Council is at about 81% of its appropriation. The credit for the time that is allocated to other funds has not been posted yet, which is why the percentage is over 75%. He stated that some salary and wage line items are seasonal, such as for Graydon Pool, and some are low because the snow season has not yet occurred. Overall, Mr. Rooney indicated that the General Fund appropriations appear to be right on target. There will be a transfer resolution before the Village Council in December 2022, which will be needed to “move some money around” for unexpected expenditures, as well as some items which were budgeted for but did not come to fruition.
Regarding the Water Utility Fund, Mr. Rooney indicated that revenues are right on target, at 74% of what was anticipated in the 2022 Budget. Some billings were sent out in the third quarter, so Mr. Rooney stated that revenues will hopefully “be in excess of where they need to be” at the end of the year. He explained that the “PFAS Treatment” line item represents the surcharge which was added to water bills to cover future debt service payments for PFAS treatment.
Mr. Rooney explained that Water Utility Fund appropriations are somewhat above what was anticipated (80%), primarily regarding Capital Improvement Fund and Capital Outlay. Some appropriations are encumbered for projects, which most likely will not be completely spent by the end of 2022.
Mr. Rooney stated that Parking Utility revenues appear to be on target (76%), although less than what was anticipated a few years ago. He said that he is confident that enough revenue will be received this year in order to keep the budget balanced. He was hopeful that the revenue stream would surpass what was anticipated (2022 Budget $2,347,200.00, actual to September 30, 2022, $1,777,006.00). Parking Utility Fund appropriations total 71% of what was anticipated in the 2022 Budget. He said that some items are higher than anticipated, but that those items were subject to allocation. He said that some PEOs do work for the Police Department during certain events, and their overtime credited in the Parking Utility Fund may not yet have been charged over to the Police Department Fund. There were no questions, and everyone thanked Mr. Rooney.
2. CANCEL GENERAL CAPITAL ORDINANCE BALANCES
Ms. Mailander explained that this agenda item deals with the cancellation of General Capital Ordinance balances that are completed or have changed in scope. These monies can then be re-appropriated to fund future capital projects or used to pay down debt. All fund balances considered for cancellation will be reviewed by the appropriate Department Directors to ensure that they do not have a need for any of these ordinance balances.
3. AWARD CONTRACT – SPATIAL DATA LOGIC LICENSE RENEWAL
Ms. Mailander stated that this item deals with the awarding of a contract for the Spatial Data Logic (SDL) software license renewal. This allows for the continued use of the SDL program by the Village for next year and includes a past due amount. There is a past due amount due to the fact that the incorrect amount of the invoice was inserted in the resolution ($500.00 less).
4. AWARD CONTRACT – PURCHASE OF EQUIPMENT AND SERVICE FOR POLICE VEHICLES
Ms. Mailander indicated that this item deals with the purchase of equipment and service for Police Department vehicles. It is recommended that a contract be awarded to East Coast Customs of Flemington, New Jersey, under State contract, to purchase, install and repair police emergency lights, safety equipment and other equipment that is put into the police cars. It is intended that useable equipment will be removed from retired cars and installed, along with the new equipment, in at least five police vehicles this year, including vehicles currently in the fleet that have not been outfitted yet. East Coast Customs provides all equipment that will be installed. Regional Communications used to do this work, but they have lost car technicians who are able to provide this service. The amount of the contract will not exceed $75,000.00. Funding is in the Capital and Operating Accounts for the Police Department.
5. AWARD CONTRACT – RESURFACING OF PROSPECT STREET
Ms. Mailander stated that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract for the resurfacing of Prospect Street, from East Ridgewood Avenue to Maple Avenue. There were seven registered plan holders eligible to bid, and there were six bids received. The bids ranged from a low of $414,961.62 to a high of $546,843.94. The low bid received of $414,961.62 was from American Asphalt and Trucking of Newark, New Jersey. This company was the successful contractor for this year’s paving award. Work for this project is partially funded by a New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) municipal aid grant in the amount of $200,000.00. The remainder of the funds needed are in the Capital Account.
Councilwoman Reynolds asked Ms. Mailander if she could explain the process and why it has taken so long, since the funding was received in early 2021. Ms. Mailander explained that it takes time to bid out the job, and the Village must have staff available to oversee the work. Since it is now later in the year, and it is getting too cold for concrete to be poured, this resurfacing will probably not take place until the Spring of 2023. Ms. Mailander said that the regular paving project was bid out in February or early March in order to obtain optimal pricing, since most municipalities do not send bids out until April or May and projects are not begun until July. The Village begins such work around April. She said she would ask Mr. Rutishauser why this particular project is taking so long.
Councilwoman Reynolds said that it was her understanding that Linwood Avenue would also be paved in the spring. Ms. Mailander stated that the Linwood Avenue paving will have to wait until Public Service Electric & Gas (PSE&G) finishes their work on Linwood Avenue. Franklin Avenue should be resurfaced this year, and Godwin Avenue will be paved next year.
Mayor Knudsen asked about a small corner parcel of land on Franklin Avenue that needs to be resolved. Ms. Mailander said that she was unaware of this. Mayor Knudsen asked if Ms. Mailander would follow up on this, prior to the Franklin Avenue upgrades. Ms. Mailander indicated that she would do so.
6. AWARD CONTRACT – SNOW PLOWS FOR STREET TRUCKS
Ms. Mailander explained that this agenda items deals with the awarding of a contract to purchase snow plows for four new trucks which have been received by the Streets Division, so that the trucks can be incorporated into the Village’s snow plowing fleet. It is recommended that the contract be awarded to FDR Hitches of Hawthorne, New Jersey, under the Sourcewell Cooperative Purchasing Program, in an amount not to exceed $31,141.64. Funding is available in the Streets Division Capital Budget.
7. AUTHORIZE REBIDDING OF FURNISHING, DELIVERING AND MAINTENANCE OF VARIOUS EQUIPMENT FOR RIDGEWOOD POLICE, FIRE, AND EMERGENCY SERVICES DEPARTMENTS
This item deals with an authorization to rebid for furnishing, delivering and maintenance of various equipment for the Ridgewood Police, Fire, and Emergency Services Departments from December 1, 2022 through November 30, 2023. This was sent out for bid, but no bids were received. It is recommended that this resolution be adopted so that this bid can be reissued.
Deputy Mayor Perron asked if any subsequent bids have to be identical to the first one or if they can be changed. Ms. Mailander said that bids can be changed if the first bid was unsuccessful. However, if the same bid is sent out a second time and the bids received are too high or not enough bids are received, then the Village can negotiate with the bidders. She said that she was not sure whether or not the bid will be sent out again with the same language. If there may have been one condition or clause in the original bid which was felt to not be amenable to prospective bidders, then it may be changed. If a second bid attempt is unsuccessful, then they would have to study the bid to see what the problem might be.
8. ACCEPT DONATION FROM CONSERVANCY FOR RIDGEWOOD PUBLIC LANDS – BENCHES AND LANDSCAPING – NORTH BROAD STREET AT RIDGEWOOD TRAIN STATION
Ms. Mailander explained that this item deals with the acceptance of a donation from the Conservancy for Ridgewood Public Lands. This year, the Conservancy restored the garden site along North Broad Street, next to the railroad station and taxi stand (specifically, the two areas flanking the concrete stairs). This included the planting of two large evergreen cypress trees, several ornamental shrubs, and many pollinator perennials. Two Keystone Ridge benches were purchased and installed on concrete pads, and two stone ornamental plant containers on raised pedestals were set into place and planted with seasonal flowers. The redesign of this garden area, all pruning, removal of old plant materials, as well as the planting and mulching of the entire site, was under the direction and supervision of Chris Raimondi, President of the Raimondi Horticulture Group of Ho-Ho-Kus, New Jersey. They worked directly with the staff from the Department of Parks and Recreation. The Conservancy now wishes to gift this new garden, planters and seating area to the Village of Ridgewood. The project cost approximately $19,000.00. These funds were raised through the Conservancy’s fundraising efforts and through their members.
Deputy Mayor Perron stated that it is a lovely design and she is very pleased with the way this project has turned out. Mayor Knudsen thanked the Conservancy for their work and donation. Councilwoman Reynolds asked if the planters were going to be maintained on a yearly basis by the Conservancy. Ms. Mailander said that she would find out and let her know. Councilman Vagianos thanked the Conservancy for this beautiful project.
9. RESCIND AND REPLACE RESOLUTION NO. 22-305 – PRINTING OF VILLAGE CALENDAR
Ms. Mailander said that this item pertains to the rescinding of a prior resolution for the printing of the Village annual calendar. She stated that Resolution #22-305 was adopted on September 14, 2022, but it incorrectly stated that the award for the 2022 calendar printing would be awarded to Ridgewood Press. However, the award was actually for printing of the 2023 calendar. Therefore, a new resolution will be adopted rescinding the old resolution and setting forth the correct calendar year.
D. POLICY
1. RESTRICT ACCESS TO CERTAIN VILLAGE OFFICES
Ms. Mailander explained that many Village offices and Village-owned and/or Village-operated properties/facilities have documents which are not public documents, because they contain confidential information. She said that in order to safeguard this confidential information, it is recommended that signs be placed on Village-owned and/or Village-operated offices, properties and facilities stating “Restricted Area – Authorized Employees Only.” An ordinance is required in order to do so, which will permit enforcement of any violations, if necessary.
Mr. Rogers asked if any consideration was given to any areas within Village Hall or at any other Village facilities precluding access for safety reasons, such as protection against any terroristic threats. Ms. Mailander said that this has been done at some facilities. Mr. Rogers stated that Ridgewood Water has serious concerns, as well as the Fire Department. He asked if this could be added into the ordinance. Ms. Mailander said that she would do so.
Deputy Mayor Perron thought that such signs may be a bit “off-putting” to visitors to Village Hall, but she said that she would defer to Ms. Mailander to make that decision. She asked if filing cabinets are always locked. Ms. Mailander said that they can be locked and there are certain ones that are always locked. Deputy Mayor Perron asked if such signs would preclude a guided tour of the Fire Department. Ms. Mailander said these signs would not preclude a planned tour of the Fire Department or of Village Hall, as long as the people in the tour were accompanied by authorized personnel.
E. OPERATIONS
1. REVIEW OF BEST PRACTICES WORKSHEET
Ms. Mailander explained that this is a review of the Best Practices Worksheet sent by the State to all municipalities to determine State aid. This worksheet was then distributed to all Village Departments to fill out their respective portions. This annual worksheet is completed by each municipality and then sent back to the State. The worksheet must be reviewed by the governing body of each municipality. The number of positive answers determines how much State aid a municipality will receive. Based on the responses this year, it is anticipated that the Village of Ridgewood will be eligible for full State aid. There are also unscored questions based on recent legislation.
Councilman Vagianos asked about question 17 which asks: “Are all municipal employees receiving ongoing cybersecurity training in malware detection, password construction, identifying security incidents and social engineering attacks?” Ms. Mailander said that, at this time, not all employees are receiving such training. However, now that there is a new training center, this training will commence this month and hopefully end in December. Training will be given weekly in small groups, so that offices can still function.
Regarding question 22, Councilman Vagianos asked if meeting dates, minutes, and agendas for the governing body, Planning Board, Board of Adjustment, and all commissions are posted on the Village website. He said that there has been an issue in the past with minutes being posted on the Village website in a timely fashion. He asked how current the minutes are on the website. Ms. Mailander said that all minutes that have been adopted and approved are currently posted on the Village website.
Regarding question 37, Councilman Vagianos asked about an anti-nepotism policy established by ordinance. He asked what the distinction was between a policy and an ordinance. Ms. Mailander indicated that such a policy is incorporated into the Human Resources Manual. The Village has never adopted a specific ordinance regarding same, but the Village is guided by the policy contained within the Human Resources Manual. An ordinance could be passed if the Village Council felt strongly enough about it. Mr. Rogers stated that most municipal employers will not put their guidelines or employment policies into an ordinance form. He said that he will contact the Labor Counsel to find out. Mayor Knudsen added that the Village also has the component of Civil Service, which is ultimately the “final say in anything.”
Regarding question 45, Councilman Vagianos stated that the Village does not have a formal policy in place, when purchasing new vehicles, to purchase hybrid or alternative fuel vehicles. He wondered if this matter should be discussed soon at an upcoming Village Council meeting. Mayor Knudsen said that this could be done. However, she stated that issues have arisen in the past with purchasing electric vehicles, because they were not sufficient for their intended use, such as running generators or other heavy machinery. Whenever possible, electric vehicles have been looked into as an option. A formal policy could be adopted that hybrid or alternative fuel vehicles could be purchased whenever practical.
Deputy Mayor Perron indicated that electric vehicles are currently hard to purchase due to supply chain issues. Speaking with Mr. Rutishauser, the Chief of Police, as well as the Sanitation Department, she said there is not really a good place in the Village for charging such vehicles. Councilman Vagianos said that these issues will eventually be addressed, since this is the direction in which the world is moving. Accordingly, he thought that the Village Council could start looking into this sooner rather than later. He would like the topic of electric vehicles to be put on a Village Council Workshop agenda, and have Department Directors attend since they know more about trucks and cars used by the Village. Deputy Mayor Perron indicated that this is also included in the newly adopted Master Plan. There were no further questions or comments.
2. AFFORDABLE HOUSING
Beth McManus, Village Planner, said that she was speaking this evening to review the last important steps to effectuate the Village’s Settlement Agreement with the Fair Share Housing Center. The Village entered into this agreement in 2018. Approximately 300 other municipalities also entered into similar Settlement Agreements either prior to or subsequent to that time. This agreement identified the Village’s affordable housing obligation and set forth how that obligation would be satisfied. One of those items addresses the Valley Hospital site (Block 3301, Lot 51). Ms. McManus indicated that the Settlement Agreement entered into by the Village was approved by Judge Farrington of the Bergen County Superior Court, whereby he stated that the Settlement Agreement was fair and in the interest of low- and moderate-income households.
Ms. McManus indicated that the Village Planning Board then adopted a Housing Element (Master Plan policy for affordable housing) and Fair Share Plan consistent with the Settlement Agreement, which has yet to be approved by the court at a final compliance hearing. Before the compliance hearing, some outstanding items need to be addressed, the most important of which is the Valley Hospital site. One of the provisions of the Settlement Agreement states that the Village is obligated to plan for the ultimate redevelopment of this site, with a component of inclusionary housing that will provide for not less than 40 affordable housing units. Ms. McManus prepared a report recommending that the Valley Hospital site be designated as an Area in Need of Redevelopment. There was a public hearing before the Planning Board, and the Village Council adopted a resolution declaring this site as an Area in Need of Redevelopment on March 1, 2022.
Ms. McManus then presented her Redevelopment Plan for Valley Hospital, intended to create the required 40 affordable housing units and compliance with the Settlement Agreement. The Redevelopment Plan was created in such a way to allow the Village Council to have control and oversight in the event the site is redeveloped. The only time a developer can apply to the Planning Board for site plan approval is if the developer is named as a “designated redeveloper” by the Village Council. Ms. McManus recommends that the Village Council enter into an agreement with a designated redeveloper that provides for a concept plan with which the Village is comfortable and which is consistent with the Redevelopment Plan.
In addition, Ms. McManus stated that while the Redevelopment Plan permits redevelopment of the Valley Hospital site for inclusionary housing, it does not eliminate the existing H (Hospital) Zone. The Redevelopment Plan would “kick in” if Valley Hospital management chose to vacate the Ridgewood site. Valley Hospital management may also choose to redevelop the site themselves, repurposing the buildings consistent with the H Zone, or redeveloping the site consistent with the Redevelopment Plan. What a developer may not do is take parts of the H Zone and parts of the Redevelopment Plan and combine them to develop something that is only in favor of the developer.
The Redevelopment Plan sets forth the number of units that can be developed on the site (13 units per acre, yielding approximately 200 units, including 40 affordable housing units). There are provisions to ensure that the affordable housing can be achieved on this site and to ensure that the site is developed in such a way that mitigates any impact on the surrounding area, such as buffers and setbacks. The permitted usages on this site are principally residential, including single-family homes, townhouses, stacked townhouses, and multifamily housing. Other permitted usages are municipal uses (using part of the site for municipal purposes) and community residences (group homes for the special needs population).
Councilman Vagianos thanked Ms. McManus for her overview and said that he understood the information contained in the Redevelopment Plan.
Deputy Mayor Perron asked if assisted living would be permitted in these housing units. Ms. McManus said that assisted living is not permitted in the Redevelopment Plan, but is permitted in the H Zone. Deputy Mayor Perron said that she was happy to see references in the Redevelopment Plan pertaining to sustainable building, such as green infrastructure, solar roof panels, and sidewalks on both sides of the streets to provide safety.
Councilwoman Reynolds thanked Ms. McManus for developing such an excellent and comprehensive Redevelopment Plan.
Mayor Knudsen mentioned that she has been working with Ms. McManus and Matt Rogers, Village Attorney, on this plan for quite a few years. She stated that she was very grateful to Ms. McManus and Mr. Rogers for their efforts in structuring the Redevelopment Plan, which achieves the controls desired by the Village Council and compliance regarding fair share housing.
Mr. Rogers said that the Village has been lucky to have Ms. McManus as Village Planner, since her knowledge and background have greatly assisted the Village in forming the Redevelopment Plan. He asked Ms. McManus to explain to the Village Council the final items which need to be taken care of, prior to appearing in court for the final compliance hearing.
Ms. McManus remarked that there are still a handful of outstanding implementation items on which the Village Council needs to take action. The Village Council must adopt a resolution naming a Municipal Housing Liaison, a required position in every municipality that deals with affordable housing. The Municipal Housing Liaison would answer questions from individuals and deal with mail regarding affordable housing. The Village Council must also adopt an Affirmative Marketing Plan via resolution. All affordable housing units are required to be advertised in a very specific way (specific newspapers), properly marketed to the multi-county region, and listed on the Housing Resource Center website.
In addition, every municipality is required to adopt a resolution that designates where advertising will be done for affordable housing. An Affordable Housing Administrative Ordinance must also be adopted by the Village Council, which is basically a regulatory ordinance. The Village previously adopted such an ordinance. The Fair Share Housing Center reviewed the ordinance and made several recommendations for changes. The Redevelopment Plan does not alter zoning or land use procedures or designations.
In order to gain compliance, Ms. McManus indicated that an Affordable Housing Trust Fund must be established. The first component is a “Spending Plan,” an accounting of the funding that is anticipated to be collected in the Trust Fund between the present time and the “third round” (July 2025) and how the Village proposes to spend such funds. This would be accomplished by adopting a pertinent resolution. There must also be a “Resolution of Intent to Fund,” required by any municipality engaged in affordable housing. It would state that the municipality is committed to fund its affordable housing obligation.
Ms. McManus summarized by stating that the final steps entail adoption of the Redevelopment Plan, adoption of the Amended Affordable Housing Administrative Ordinance, adoption of an Affirmative Marketing Plan, appointment of a Municipal Housing Liaison, adoption of the Spending Plan, and adoption of a Resolution of Intent to Fund.
Mayor Knudsen asked when all of these matters need to be completed. Ms. McManus would recommend that all of these requirements be completed by the end of the year. Mayor Knudsen remarked that, since an ordinance is involved, the ordinance would need to be introduced on November 9, 2022. Ms. McManus said that she would forward the proposed ordinance to all Village Councilmembers and to Ms. Mailander. Ms. Mailander indicated that a Municipal Housing Liaison has already been designated. She asked Ms. McManus to send her an email listing all the requirements which still need to be accomplished. Mr. Rogers indicated that as long as the proposed ordinance has at least been introduced, the court should be satisfied.
When questioned by Mayor Knudsen, Ms. McManus explained that Piazza & Associates is the affordable housing administrative agent. She does the planning for affordable housing units, and Piazza & Associates performs the administration.
3. PLACE HOLD ON DEMOLITION OF HISTORIC HOMES
Mr. Rogers stated that he researched the matter of placing a 30-day hold on demolition permits so that the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) would have a chance to review and comment on any demolition of historic homes or buildings in the Village. He also spoke with Tony Merlino, Village Construction Code Official and Building Department Director. Mr. Merlino said that he could not remember ever getting an application for demolition of a historic building.
Mr. Rogers stated that he studied the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC). Regarding historic buildings, Mr. Rogers said that the word “demolition” never appears in that section of the UCC. The definition of “historic buildings” would include not only those structures that are on the National and State Registries and those issued a Determination of Eligibility by the Keeper of the National Register of Historic Places, but also a building identified as a “contributing building to the local historic districts” and only those buildings which have been certified by the Keeper of the National Register as substantially meeting the National Register criteria. Mr. Rogers said that this was a separate designation to which the UCC’s historic building criteria applies. He said that a home in Ridgewood may not be designated as historic per se, but may be located in one of the Village’s historic districts. He indicated that this strictly applies to residential structures and not to commercial structures.
Mr. Rogers is trying to figure out what role the HPC could play with regard to review of a demolition permit. Since there are hardly ever any applications for demolition permits for historic homes, and since there is a 20-day window within which the Building Department must review a demolition permit that would be applicable to a residential structure that is located in one of the Village’s historic districts but doesn’t fit the other criteria as a historic building, he did not think that the HPC’s review of a demolition permit would be beneficial to the Village or create any type of stop-gap with regard to the demolition of a non-historic qualified building. The HPC does not have any authority to approve or deny the demolition permit, but can merely serve in an advisory capacity.
Mayor Knudsen indicated that she would share this information with the HPC. Mr. Rogers offered to accompany Mayor Knudsen to the meeting. Mayor Knudsen thanked Mr. Rogers for his input.
4. AUTHORIZE SIGNATURE FOR TRANSFER OF BARRINGTON ROAD
Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the authorization of a signature for transfer of a 40-foot right-of-way located at the westerly section of Barrington Road and Upper Boulevard. Mr. Rogers said that an ordinance was passed wherein the Village Council formally decided that a certain section of Barrington Road was no longer needed by the Village for a public purpose other than to maintain a 15-foot wide water main easement. This parcel of land is unimproved, has an extremely steep slope, and is bordered by two residential properties. The Village decided to vacate its public interest in that section of Barrington Road, which would inure to the benefit of the two adjacent property owners. This unimproved parcel was labeled as a “paper street.”
Mr. Rogers explained that the property owners have incurred all the costs and paperwork associated with the transfer of the parcel in question. Mr. Rogers said that he had been working on this matter with David Rutherford, a local attorney in Ridgewood hired by the two adjacent neighbors, who unfortunately passed away last year. The property owners have hired another attorney, Joseph Marinello of Ridgewood, who has presented deeds to Mr. Rogers for review. Mr. Rogers indicated that the deeds are satisfactory and just need to be signed by Mayor Knudsen and the Village Manager. This proposed resolution will permit their signatures to be affixed to the deeds.
Mayor Knudsen said that the Barrington “paper street” continues on the other side of Upper Boulevard. An application came before the Board of Adjustment in approximately 2010 or 2011 by the property owner on the other side of Barrington Road, where the house was razed and rebuilt. Mayor Knudsen asked whether this was another parcel which the Village should vacate, since the parcel is now “paved over” and the property owners are currently using it to access their driveway. She said that this parcel is still technically Village property.
Mr. Rogers replied that the area is paved and access to the driveway comes off of that section of Barrington Road, with no direct access from Upper Boulevard. He said that he would need to speak with various departments, such as the Engineering Department and Water Utility, to see if the Village has any specific public use for that section of Barrington Road. If it is determined that the Village has no public purpose for that section, the Village could consider vacating that parcel as well. He recalled that the Village had considered vacating a parcel of land (paper street) off of Heights Road, where an adjacent property owner did not want the property, so that matter is “hanging in limbo.”
Councilwoman Reynolds asked if the property lines change when land is vacated and adjacent property owners are given title to the vacated land. Mr. Rogers said that, with two adjacent property owners, the property boundaries change to the midline of the paper street. This will result in an increase in the value of the land and additional property taxes. Mr. Rogers said that, in the instant case, both property owners are taking half of the vacated land, and then one property owner is selling his half to the other adjacent property owner.
6. REVIEW OF NOVEMBER 9, 2022 PUBLIC MEETING AGENDA
Ms. Mailander indicated that there are no Proclamations and no ordinances for introduction or public hearing with regard to Ridgewood Water. Resolutions for Ridgewood Water include: Title 59 Approval and Award of Contract for Roof Repairs on Various Ridgewood Water Facilities and Authorize Refund of Water Overpayment.
Introduction of Ordinances include: Amend Chapter 190 – Land Use and Development – Signs in Highway Commercial (HC) Zone; Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Permit Parking for Non-Residents; Establishing Access Restrictions to Designated Village-Owned and Village-Operated Offices, Properties and Facilities; and Affordable Housing Ordinance.
Ordinances scheduled for Public Hearing include: Management and Non-Union Salary Ordinances for 2022 and 2023; Bond Ordinance – Repairs to Water Pollution Control Facility; and Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – 2023 Parking Permit Fees.
Resolutions include: Title 59 Approval and Award of Contract for Resurfacing of Prospect Street; Award Contract – Snow Plows for Trucks – Streets Department; Award Contract Under State Contract – Spatial Data Logic License Renewal; Award Contract – Purchase of Equipment and Service for Police Vehicles; Award Contract – Energy Consultant for Renewable Residential Energy Aggregation Program; Rescind and Replace Ordinance #22-305 – Printing of Village Calendar; Authorize Rebid of Furnishing, Delivering and Maintenance of Various Equipment for Police, Fire, and Emergency Services Departments; Authorize Execution of Agreement – Transfer of Barrington Road; Establish Annual Service Charge and Payment for Guarantee Bond for Ridgewood Senior Citizen Housing Corporation and Guaranty of Payment of Revenue Bonds; Authorize Refund of Property Tax Overpayment; Cancel General Capital Ordinance Balances; Accept Donation from Conservancy for Ridgewood Public Lands – Benches and Landscaping – North Broad Street at Ridgewood Train Station; Authorize 2022 Holiday Parking Plan in the Central Business District; and Affordable Housing Resolutions (as long as they are received in time for the November 9, 2022 meeting).
Ms. Mailander asked the Village Councilmembers if they wanted anything off of the consent agenda. Councilman Vagianos indicated that he wanted the Holiday Parking off of the consent agenda.
7. PUBLIC COMMENTS
Rurik Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, said that he and his wife recently went to the pharmacy in Ho-Ho-Kus and stopped for lunch there as well. He said that there was free parking in Ho-Ho-Kus, and there is free parking in Glen Rock as well.
Regarding the Schedler property, Mr. Halaby stated that he worked on studying the financials for this project for over a year to determine just how much this project is costing the Village. He finally got some financial figures in October of 2021, and demanded that he receive an update on the financials as of October 2022.
Mr. Halaby said that instead of lecturing him on decorum, Mayor Knudsen should be lectured about the fact that updates and information on the Schedler house and property have been non-existent. He said that Mayor Knudsen blamed him and others for the delays on the project.
Mayor Knudsen called a point of order. Mr. Halaby stated that he has the right to see updated financials on the property and that there was no transparency by the Village Council. He said that Mayor Knudsen makes all the decisions regarding the Schedler property. He asked for a timetable as to when each aspect of the project is anticipated to be completed, including the berm, house, and field. He highly doubted that the field would be finished by the spring of 2023.
Regarding the Hudson Street Garage, Mr. Halaby stated that he has a different recollection of the events surrounding the building of the garage. There were three or four alternative sets of plans for the garage. He said that the last set of plans did not encroach on the street and there was an overhang of two feet above the sidewalk. He said that would have cost $35,000.00 per parking space versus the $60,000.00 per space with the smaller garage.
Mr. Halaby then spoke about the repaving of Franklin Avenue. He stated that his son was visiting him a few months ago and they walked down Franklin Avenue. His son remarked that the road looked like it was in a Third World country. Mr. Halaby said some of the streets in Ridgewood are horrible. He stated that a woman stepped off the curb on Chestnut Street and broke her ankle when she stepped into a pothole. He said that Bergen County cannot be blamed for the condition of Ridgewood roads. Mr. Halaby indicated that the County is waiting for Ridgewood to complete work on the curbs.
Mr. Halaby stated that his friend, who lives on Lincoln Avenue, received a $52.00 ticket in the CBD for parking six inches away from the curb, although she was well within the lines of the parking space. He wondered whether the PEOs have nothing better to do than to raise money for Mr. Rooney. He said it was ridiculous that this 75-year-old woman received such a ticket. She said that she would no longer shop or dine in Ridgewood.
Boyd A. Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that he was somewhat disappointed in the Village Council this evening. He said that former Mayor Pat Mancuso recently passed away at age 84 and there was no mention by any Councilmember of his passing. He respectfully requested that some mention be made of his contributions to the Village at the next Village Council meeting on November 9, 2022. Mr. Loving said that Mr. Mancuso’s obituary was posted online and that perhaps some of the items mentioned in the obituary could be mentioned at the meeting next week. He thought it would be appropriate to give Mr. Mancuso some recognition.
Mr. Loving said that he was concerned about the “Employee Access Only” signs that are going to be placed on the doors of some offices in Village Hall and other Ridgewood facilities. He said that confidential documents should always be behind locked doors with security measures in place and he doesn’t see a need for the signs. He said that the Fire Department is not a place where the public visits anyway. He was concerned that one such sign will be placed on an office door where a member of the public needs to go inside and speak with someone, especially if such a sign is placed on the door to the Village Clerk’s Office. He was perplexed as to why there is a sudden need to place these signs on office doors, especially if confidential documents containing private information should be under lock and key anyway. He urged the Village Council to rethink their decision about these signs.
There were no further comments from the public.
Councilman Vagianos stated that Mr. Loving was absolutely right in saying that former Mayor Mancuso’s passing and achievements should have been mentioned at the meeting this evening. He stated that Mr. Mancuso was the Village Mayor 26 years ago when Councilman Vagianos first moved to Ridgewood. He said that the Village Council will certainly take a moment at next week’s meeting to recognize former Mayor Mancuso’s passing. He thanked Mr. Loving for pointing this out. Mayor Knudsen also thanked Mr. Loving and stated that the Village Council was remiss in not mentioning former Mayor Mancuso’s passing. She stated that Mr. Mancuso was also a friend and his last days on earth were very difficult. She expressed her deepest condolences to his family.
Addressing Mr. Loving’s concerns regarding the proposed signs to secure Village departments and offices, Mr. Rogers stated that such signs are being recommended by the Village’s insurance carriers.
Councilwoman Reynolds stated that “Garage Design A” of 30 feet was 12 feet over the footprint of the Hudson Street parking lot and narrowed Hudson Street by 12 feet. Therefore, the proposed 30 feet was reduced to 18 feet. Another design, “Design B,” was supposedly a design that would fit on the footprint of the Hudson Street parking lot, but it was actually five feet over the footprint, which would have narrowed Hudson Street by five feet (leaving Hudson Street to a width of 25 feet). She stated that she did not recall any design that actually fit on the footprint until Mayor Knudsen and former Councilmember Michael Sedon were elected to the Village Council. Councilwoman Reynolds said that, to her recollection, it was former Deputy Mayor Sedon who remembered a previous design dating back a few years that fit on the footprint of the Hudson Street parking lot. Mayor Knudsen corroborated this.
8. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION
Deputy Clerk Eileen Young read a resolution to go into Closed Session:
9. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Deputy Mayor Perron, seconded by Councilwoman Reynolds, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Work Session was adjourned at 9:22 P.M.
Susan Knudsen
Mayor
Eileen Young
Deputy Village Clerk
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