20221214 - Village Council Regular Public Meeting Minutes
A REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY, ON DECEMBER 14, 2022 AT 8:00 P.M.
1. CALL TO ORDER – OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS ACT – ROLL CALL – FLAG SALUTE
Mayor Knudsen called the meeting to order at 8:01 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, and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney.
Mayor Knudsen led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag and asked for a moment of silence in recognition of all men and women serving our nation and for all first responders.
2. ACCEPTANCE OF FINANCIAL REPORTS
Mayor Knudsen moved that the Bills, Claims, and Vouchers, and Statement of Funds on Hand as of November 30, 2022 be accepted as submitted. Deputy Mayor Perron seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Council minutes of September 7, September 26, September 28, October 26, November 2, and November 9, 2022, having been reviewed by the Village Council and now available in the Village Clerk’s Office, be approved as submitted. Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
4. PROCLAMATIONS
- PROCLAIM JANUARY RADON ACTION MONTH
Councilman Vagianos read the following proclamation:
- HONOR NANCY GREENE ON HER RETIREMENT
Mayor Knudsen read the following proclamation:
After reading the proclamation, all of the Councilmembers went down on the floor and asked Nancy Greene to come up to be honored for her 27 years of service to the Ridgewood Public Library. Ms. Greene expressed how grateful she was and what a joy it has been to work with the Ridgewood Public Library, The Library Board of Trustees and The Library Foundation, as well as Ridgewood residents, donors and volunteers. She thanked David Bolger for his innumerable contributions to the library over the years, as well as Ed Houlihan, for his many volunteer hours.
5. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that she was mortified during last week’s meeting, and at other meetings, to see how American Legion Post 53 was being harassed regarding their proposed gift to the Village of the Gold Star Monument. She recalled that there was some “contentious sniping” by two Village Councilmembers. The Village Manager had read the proposed agenda at the end of the December 7, 2022 meeting, and all four members of the Village Council agreed that it would be put to a vote this evening as to whether or not this gift would be accepted. However, when she looked at the agenda for the meeting this evening, the matter of the Gold Star Monument had been removed from the agenda. She was perplexed as to why it had been removed, and asked who decided to remove it. Ms. Loving stated that such removal could represent an Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA) violation.
Laurie Weber, 235 South Irving Street, stated that at the December 7, 2022 Village Council meeting, American Legion Post 53 appeared to present a revised design for the Gold Star Monument, which she described as a beautiful and meaningful gift to the Village to honor Gold Star Families. She said that the way the American Legion members were treated was “cringeworthy.” She described the antics of the Village Council as “disgraceful.” Ms. Weber stated that the condescension, pettiness and incessant grandstanding, which was displayed, was embarrassing. She stated that the Legionnaires were ignored and disrespected by everyone. She stated that healthy, respectful and productive debate amongst the Councilmembers was unfortunately a thing of the past, and that actual issues have taken a backseat to local partisanship.
Ms. Weber stated that this divisiveness will only get worse. She said that residents in Ridgewood are being forced to choose between automatic nontransparent agreement or chaos in municipal government. She concluded by saying that the Village Councilmembers owe the Legionnaires a profound apology for their actions, and that they need to graciously accept the beautiful gift offered to the Village by American Legion Post 53.
Ed Houlihan, 212 North Walnut Street, stated that he has been a resident of Ridgewood since 1976. He is a member of a Gold Star Family, which he stated is a membership that one does not seek. His mother’s brother died in World War II, leaving a hole in the heart of Mr. Houlihan’s grandparents that never healed. The commanding officer of a destroyer in the South China Sea during the Vietnam War and his brother, who was a pilot aboard the aircraft carrier Enterprise, joined Mr. Houlihan’s family for Christmas dinner one year. It was a joyful reunion for the two brothers. Two weeks later, one of the brothers was shot down and killed in a bombing raid over North Vietnam. When Mr. Houlihan offered his condolences to the commanding officer, he quietly said, “I am now the father of two more children. Gold Star Families, the ultimate sacrifice.”
Richard Brooks, 777 East Ridgewood Avenue, stated that there seemed to be some confusion at the December 7, 2022 Village Council meeting as to whether or not the the Parks and Recreation Department and the Parks, Recreation and Conservation Board had ever reviewed proposed gifts to the Village. Mr. Brooks stated that he has been a member of the Parks, Recreation and Conservation (PRC) Board for more than 15 years and currently serves as its Chair. During the time that he has served on the board, he stated that they have reviewed “literally hundreds” of projects, which would benefit the Village. He said that the board partners with other citizen groups or sports groups, and it is the board’s goal to make sure these groups are successful and that the project meets the needs of the entire community.
Mr. Brooks cited some examples, including partnering with the Conservancy for Ridgewood Public Lands regarding the memorial benches installed throughout the Village. Other examples include the park on North Broad Street, the restoration of the War Memorial in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square, musical instruments at the Children’s Garden at the Lester Stable, Ridgewood Baseball and Softball Association, the scoreboard and batting cages at Veterans Field, as well as dugouts at Veterans Field (which was turned down). The annual donation of clay for all baseball fields in Ridgewood, the returfing of the artificial surface and lights in Maple Park, and subsequent maintenance budget were all negotiated through the PRC Board and the sports organizations. The PRC Board has reviewed scores of Girl Scout, Boy Scout and Eagle Scout projects over the years, many times where review by the PRC Board is required before a project can commence.
Joseph Suplicki, 1 Fifteenth Avenue, Elmwood Park, stated that he was very concerned about the requirement by the Village Council for an architectural rendering of the monument, which the American Legion Post 53 is offering as a gift to the Village. He said the Gold Star Monument was basically a “tombstone,” larger than many headstones in Valleau Cemetery but a lot smaller than others. He said that he is confident that no cemetery has ever required an architectural rendering of a tombstone. Mr. Suplicki said that it was incredible that this requirement would be added to an ever-growing list of requirements, by the Village Council. He said that the PRC Board does not mention anything in its mission statement regarding the approval of something like the Gold Star Monument. They are only supposed to review recreational facilities, communicate community recreation programs, and develop updates for the Master Plan concerning recreation.
Chris Stout, 251 Burnside Place, Ridgewood, stated that he was appearing at the meeting this evening on behalf of the Gold Star Monument Committee of American Legion Post 53. He said that he has received several comments regarding how the Legionnaires have been treated over the past few months, during their presentations to the Village Council. Mr. Stout stated that Legionnaires are tough and are no strangers to adversity. Some members have been shot at by enemies with either rifles, battleships or airplanes. Some were spat upon in the late 1960s and 1970s during and after the Vietnam War. Some members were not spat upon simply because they did not survive the war. Mr. Stout stated that the American Legion wants to honor those families who lost loved ones in the war by donating the Gold Star Monument to the Village. Mr. Stout said that they never expected those on the Village Council, none of whom ever served in the military would pose such barriers to this project.
Bob Paoli, 368 North Pleasant Avenue, stated that he is a veteran and member of American Legion Post 53, and that he and other veteran members were present at this evening’s meeting. He stated that they are only veterans because they were “very, very lucky.” Their lives were spared, but many of their comrades’ lives were not. He said that Gold Star Families have made the greatest sacrifice by giving up their sons and daughters in order to preserve our traditions, way of life, and beliefs. He mentioned how many times the members of the American Legion have appeared before the Village Council in the past, in order to be able to donate the Gold Star Monument to the Village. He said it was a simple monument, not a building, proposed to be placed on the east side of the existing War Memorial. It would face toward the inside of the park and would be in harmony with the existing War Memorial.
Mr. Paoli stated that the American Legion has answered all of the questions posed by the Village Councilmembers and has addressed all of their concerns. However, at the last meeting, Councilman Vagianos stated that the design was close and that they were “almost there.” He asked why the American Legion could not move forward with the placement of the Gold Star Monument.
Kirsten Dickson, 79 Madison Place, said that she is a veteran and a member of American Legion Post 53. Her daughter is a Vietnam veteran. She understands that there are many things to consider before the Gold Star Monument can be installed, due to the importance and sentiment that Memorial Park at Van Neste Square holds for the community. Memorial Park is not only a beloved gathering place, but it also acts as a lasting symbol in appreciation of fallen soldiers.
When Ms. Dickson visits the existing War Memorial and other memorials in Memorial Park, she not only thinks of the soldiers, sailors and airmen who are being commemorated, but also the surviving families. She can appreciate the loss that these families feel, as well as their longing for a lasting memorial to be built, to remind others in the future of the sacrifices made by these brave men and women. The names on the existing War Memorial and the design of the memorial itself may seem archaic to some, but it serves as a constant reminder.
Ms. Dickson said that the proposed Gold Star Monument “realigns” Memorial Park towards its intended purpose. The erection of the monument will memorialize the sacrifices made in the past and will ensure that these fallen soldiers and their surviving families will not be forgotten by future generations. Ms. Dickson remarked that the monument was intentionally designed to be simple and befitting of “one coming from a newer generation.” She said that if the style of the Gold Star Monument does not exactly match the existing monument, it may be because it is not a reflection of the sentiment of the anguished families of those originally commemorated, but instead those who came afterwards. She felt that the design should be more modern, since it looks forward to what comes after loss. The design is perfect to the American Legion members.
Maria Bombace, 168 Chestnut Street, stated that her relationship with Commander Paoli and the American Legion began 17 years ago, when her oldest son was deployed and thereafter when her younger son was deployed. Her sons have been supported by the American Legion with care packages and mail, and her family has been supported in the Village as well. In 2005, a small group of Ridgewood moms, who had sons deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan, met regularly to update each other with news and to alleviate the anxiety each mother was experiencing. Their boys all returned home. Realizing how easily a mother can become a Gold Star Mother, she approached Commander Paoli with the idea of starting a yearly event for Gold Star Mothers in Ridgewood to honor them. Many of the Village Councilmembers have attended this event over the past 13 years. Ms. Bombace indicated that the Village Council and Village residents have always supported this event, a source of pride for the Village.
Ms. Bombace indicated that about two years ago, the Legionnaires began to develop a plan to create a permanent monument to honor Gold Star Families, especially the 114 Ridgewood families whose sons’ names are engraved on the existing War Memorial. The Legionnaires have appeared before the Village Council numerous times and have been receptive to suggestions and changes. Ms. Bombace said that now was the time to move forward. She asked the Village Councilmembers to support the American Legion to “get to the finish line.”
Rurik Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, said that no one is as supportive of veterans as his wife, Cynthia, and gave a history of the members of her family who served in the military. One of her projects has been to clean up the existing War Memorial and planting the urns at the War Memorial. He stated that everyone in Ridgewood is in favor of erecting the Gold Star Monument. Mr. Halaby said that what should be a wonderful event bringing people closer together, has become a divisive event tearing people apart. Three or four designs of the monument have been presented to the Village Council and all have been rejected. Mr. Halaby stated that the Village Councilmembers have led the Legionnaires “down the garden path” by being told they would work together to get the project finished. He encouraged everyone to work together in a united manner.
There were no further public comments.
Mayor Knudsen said that she was “astonished” at some of the comments made this evening. She stated that she has never been a Council Liaison to the PRC Board, and neither the former nor current liaison has ever mentioned having to appear before the PRC Board until last week. She has worked with the Gold Star Monument Committee for quite a while, and committee members have appeared before the Village Council on multiple occasions. She stated that the comment that she led the Legionnaires “down a primrose path” was simply not true. She only helped to develop a presentation for the Gold Star Monument as a member of the committee.
Mayor Knudsen stated that the Gold Star Monument Committee actually worked with an architect and his son, who volunteered countless hours. Mayor Knudsen stated that the American Legion designed this monument and it is their gift to the Village; however, the Village Council soundly rejected it on a few occasions. The American Legion considered the Village Council’s suggestions, yet it was still rejected as recently as last week. Mayor Knudsen apologized for the actions of some of the Village Councilmembers. She reiterated that the design of the Gold Star Monument is strictly that of American Legion Post 53.
Councilman Vagianos thanked all the Legionnaires and their families for attending the meeting this evening and for speaking respectfully and passionately about the Gold Star Monument. He stated that he has had in-person meetings, and numerous phone calls, with members in order to have this matter finalized. He did not view the first design, and stated that he recalled the second design, which depicted a family sitting on the risers of the memorial, which he voted to approve but others did not. A third, very large monument was proposed, but once observing the proposed placement of the monument in the park, it was discovered that the location was where the Village in-ground Christmas tree is planted. Councilman Vagianos stated that this was the very thing with which the PRC Board could have helped.
Councilman Vagianos remarked that the Gold Star Monument will be the most important monument that has ever graced Memorial Park at Van Neste Square. It will last well beyond his lifetime, and commemorates families that have made a sacrifice greater than the vast majority of people can ever conceive. The Gold Star Families deserves the respect and dignity of a monument that is prominent and thought provoking. He said that the design should not be left in the hands of those who have no “design talents,” which is why he has enlisted the talents of two local professionals to help with the process: Tess Giuliani, a noted designer, and Lynne Brady, an architect. Both Ms. Giuliani and Ms. Brady have sat on the Historic Preservation Commission and are residents of Ridgewood. They have collaborated on past projects and stated that they would be deeply moved and honored to be able to assist with the Gold Star Monument project. He plans to have both professionals meet as soon as possible with members of the Gold Star Monument Committee to brainstorm about the design, after which time the design will be presented to the PRC Board for review, and then to the Village Council for approval.
Councilman Vagianos said that the hard part will be raising the funds so that the monument can be erected. He stated that he was personally pledging $1,000.00 towards the erection of this monument. He said that there is a saying, “You can get it done fast, or you can get it done right,” and stated that this monument needs to be “done right” because Gold Star Families deserve that. He said that some people have tried to make this matter personal. He said that it is personal, personal to him and personal to those who have lost a loved one.
Deputy Mayor Perron also thanked all of the Legionnaires who attended the meeting this evening. She stated that she agreed with Ms. Bombace that this monument needs to be completed soon. Deputy Mayor Perron remarked that if someone wanted to erect a monument in Central Park, the project would be vetted through innumerable agencies and other stakeholders, and would receive professional input. Deputy Mayor Perron recalled what Maya Lin had to go through before the Vietnam Memorial was finally installed in Washington, DC. She urged the Legionnaires to work with professionals so that the desired “emotional response” to the monument is achieved, emotions such as awe, respect, wonder, and recognition of the sacrifices made by Gold Star Families. She would like to see this project succeed with input from trained professionals.
Councilwoman Reynolds began by apologizing to the Legionnaires for what the Village Council has put them through over the past 15 months. She could not understand why nothing was said at the first presentation about the need for a design architect and approval by the PRC Board. She acknowledged that the American Legion members have incorporated all of the suggestions made by the Village Council and made numerous presentations. She stated that whether one likes or dislikes a particular design is subjective. Even working with a designer, the same scenario could occur. She emphasized the fact that the monument is a gift from the Legionnaires, and should be solely designed by them, not by someone else. The project was previously placed on this evening’s agenda for a vote, but it was subsequently removed. She asked Ms. Mailander to place this matter back on the agenda for a vote this evening.
Mayor Knudsen expressed confidence that the Gold Star Monument would soon be installed in Memorial Park in Van Neste Square. She has begun fundraising for the erection of the monument. She stated that anyone wishing to donate funds for the erection of the monument may send a check to American Legion Post 53. She said she was looking forward to voting on the project this evening.
Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney, stated that the Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA) requires that a meeting agenda containing items to be voted on, must be posted 48 hours before such meeting. He said that he was not sure whether the agenda this evening was posted 48 hours in advance. Mayor Knudsen mentioned that perhaps a “consensus roll call” could be taken this evening. Mr. Rogers stated that no official vote can be taken if a matter is not placed on an agenda, and the Gold Star Monument matter was not listed on the agenda for this evening’s meeting.
6. VILLAGE MANAGER’S REPORT
Ms. Mailander stated that on December 17 and December 24, 2022, Santa will hear everyone’s holiday wishes at Santa’s House in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square from 11:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M.
On December 17 and 24, 2022, free parking (four hours maximum) will be available to visitors to the Central Business District (CBD) on the second and third floors of the Hudson Street Garage. She encouraged everyone to shop and dine in Ridgewood’s historic CBD.
The 10th Annual Hanukkah Menorah Lighting will take place on December 18, 2022 from 5:30 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. in the public forum space in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square. This is being presented by the Jewish community of Ridgewood, Temple Israel and JCC, and the Jewish Federation of Northern New Jersey. There will be live musical entertainment and free giveaways.
Sale of parking permits for Ridgewood residents and non-residents will begin on December 20, 2022 at the Village Hall reception desk. Individuals must present their driver’s license and vehicle registration when purchasing the permits.
All Village departments and offices will be closed on December 23, 2022, December 26, 2022, and January 2, 2023 in observance of the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. There will be no recycling or garbage pickup on December 26th or January 2nd, and the Recycling Center will be closed. There will be garbage and recycling pickup on December 23rd. Christmas tree pickup begins on December 27, 2022 on the east side, with west side collection occurring the following week. A similar alternating schedule will be observed until the end of January.
Upcoming Village Council meetings are broadcast live from the Village Hall Courtroom, on the Village website, on FIOS Channel 34 and YouTube. There will be a Reorganization Meeting on January 4, 2023 at 6:30 P.M., followed by a Village Council Public Work Session at 7:30 P.M. The next Public Meeting is scheduled for January 11, 2023 at 8:00 P.M. Further Public Work Sessions will be held on January 25 and February 1, 2023 at 7:30 P.M.
7. VILLAGE COUNCIL REPORTS
Councilman Vagianos stated that he had nothing to report.
Deputy Mayor Perron stated that the Shade Tree Commission met and was debriefed on the planting of 90 trees in the Central Business District, along with 192 trees which were planted in residential areas throughout the Village. She has heard on numerous occasions that 500 trees per year, for the next 10 years, would need to be planted in the Village in order to refurbish its tree canopy. Additional staffing in the Parks Department would be needed in order to achieve that goal. Various grant funding was also discussed.
The Central Business District Advisory Committee (CBDAC) met to discuss implementation of the Master Plan. Several guests were at the meeting, including some realtors who play a big part in bringing people to Ridgewood. They did not finish prioritizing action items from the Master Plan, but this will continue at the next CBDAC meeting.
Deputy Mayor Perron indicated that the Green Ridgewood Committee also met. They agreed to start their meetings at 7:30 instead of 7:00 going forward. Some speakers are scheduled to attend to talk about the deer population and Lyme disease. They are planning some educational field trips, possibly to the leaf composting facility, the new Ridgewood Water headquarters, and the sewage treatment plant in Glen Rock.
With the Christmas season approaching, Deputy Mayor Perron wanted to remind residents about the new Styrofoam densifier at the Recycling Center, which can condense extruded polystyrene (EPS) Styrofoam (usually used in packaging). Throwing Styrofoam away in the garbage or bulk waste takes up a lot of space in garbage trucks, requiring more truck runs and more gas usage. The EPS must be white and cannot be pellets (peanuts) or clamshell takeout food containers. Tape must be taken off the Styrofoam before being brought to the Recycling Center. The condensed EPS is then reused to make picture frames, moldings, rulers, and other items.
Councilwoman Reynolds reported that she has had no committee meetings since last week. She wished Happy Holidays to everyone. Mayor Knudsen stated that she also had nothing new to report. She wished everyone a Happy Holiday season.
8. ORDINANCES – RIDGEWOOD WATER
Ms. Mailander stated that there are no introductions of, or public hearings on, ordinances for Ridgewood Water this evening.
9. RESOLUTIONS – RIDGEWOOD WATER
Ms. Mailander stated that the following resolutions, numbered 22-384 through 22-396 were to be adopted by a consent agenda, and would be read by title only:
Ms. Mailander indicated that resolutions 22-397 through 22-398 would be considered separately and read in full.
10. ORDINANCES
A. PUBLIC HEARING - #3928 – AMEND CHAPTER 190 – LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT – SIGNS IN HIGHWAY COMMERCIAL (HC) ZONE
Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3928 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3928 by title only:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 190 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT, AT “SECTION 190-122, SIGNS”
Mayor Knudsen opened the Public Hearing on Ordinance #3928. There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Deputy Mayor Perron moved that Ordinance #3928 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
B. PUBLIC HEARING - #3929 – AMEND CHAPTER 190 – LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT – ARTICLE XIII – AFFORDABLE HOUSING
Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3929 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3929 by title only:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND PROVISIONS ARTICLE XIII “AFFORDABLE HOUSING”
Mayor Knudsen stated that the Planning Board reviewed this ordinance and requested that the formatting of the ordinance be changed, so that it is clearly laid out. In addition, on page 5 of the ordinance, at section 190-141 B., the word “Township” should be changed to “Village” twice in that paragraph. Since these are not substantive changes to the ordinance, Mayor Knudsen said that she would take a motion at this time to amend Ordinance #3929, as recommended by the Planning Board.
Deputy Mayor Perron moved that the amendments to Ordinance #3929, as recommended by the Planning Board, and outlined by the Mayor, be adopted and incorporated into Ordinance #3929. Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Mayor Knudsen then opened the Public Hearing on Ordinance #3929, as amended. There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Deputy Mayor Perron moved that Ordinance #3929, as amended, be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
C. PUBLIC HEARING - #3930 – AMEND CHAPTER 265 – VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC – PERMIT PARKING – ALLOW NON-RESIDENTS TO PURCHASE RIDGEWOOD PARKING PERMITS
Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3930 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3930 by title only:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-33, “PERMIT PARKING”
Mayor Knudsen opened the Public Hearing on Ordinance #3930. There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Deputy Mayor Perron moved that Ordinance #3930 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
D. PUBLIC HEARING - #3931 – AMEND CHAPTER 3 – ADMINISTRATION OF GOVERNMENT
Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3931 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3931 by title only:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 3 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, ADMINISTRATION OF GOVERNMENT
Mayor Knudsen opened the Public Hearing on Ordinance #3931.
Boyd A. Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that he previously spoke about this matter at a prior public meeting. Following that meeting, Mr. Rogers spoke to Mr. Loving about the genesis of this ordinance. Even though he understands the reasoning, Mr. Loving stated that he was still concerned that the posting of signs designating a restricted area may “get out of control” unless closely monitored. Specifically, he is concerned that areas, which are now accessible to the public, may all of a sudden be “off limits” and preclude a taxpayer, for example, from speaking to staff in the Tax Office. Mr. Loving is concerned that such signs may be posted at the Engineering Office and Tax Assessor’s Office. In such case, windows may need to be constructed along the hallway walls so that members of the public may approach the windows, rather than going inside the office itself, to ask questions of the staff. This would become an extra expense that taxpayers will be asked to bear.
Mr. Loving stated that he feels there are some Village employees who do not wish to interact with the public, and he is concerned that these signs will provide them with a convenient excuse not to speak with members of the public. If this ordinance is adopted, Mr. Loving asked that the situation be monitored so that it does not get out of control. He added that now, with the new phone system, Village staff knows who is calling and may decide whether or not to answer the phone. This is also the case with emails. This will restrict residents from being able to contact a Village employee in case they need to speak to them. He wished everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Mayor Knudsen asked how this situation would be monitored. Ms. Mailander stated that she does not foresee these signs “closing down” an office. For instance, if a resident wanted to speak with someone in the Engineering Department, and there is a sign stating that the office is a restricted area, the resident would probably need to be escorted into the office so that they can conduct their business or ask their questions. Regarding the Tax Assessor’s Office, the signs would restrict access only to the back end of the office where the desks and filing cabinets are located. Ms. Mailander stated that she will ensure that the matter is monitored and that members of the public retain access to various Village employees.
There were no further comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Deputy Mayor Perron moved that Ordinance #3931 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
E. PUBLIC HEARING - #3932 – BOND ORDINANCE – ACQUISITION OF ENERGY SYSTEMS
Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3932 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3932 by title only:
BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE ACQUISITION OF WASTE TO ENERGY AND PHOTOVOLTAIC ENERGY SYSTEMS IN AND BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $515,000 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $490,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE PART OF THE COST THEREOF
Mayor Knudsen opened the Public Hearing on Ordinance #3932. There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Vagianos moved that Ordinance #3932 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
F. PUBLIC HEARING - #3933 – PBA AND PBA SUPERIORS SALARY ORDINANCE
Mayor Knudsen recused herself from this discussion. Deputy Mayor Perron moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3933 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, and Vagianos
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
RECUSE: Mayor Knudsen
The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3933 by title only:
AN ORDINANCE TO FIX SALARIES, WAGES, AND OTHER COMPENSATION OF AND FOR POLICE OFFICERS AND POLICE SUPERIOR OFFICERS OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, COUNTY OF BERGEN, AND STATE OF NEW JERSEY
Mayor Knudsen opened the Public Hearing on Ordinance #3933. There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, and Vagianos
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
RECUSE: Mayor Knudsen
Councilman Vagianos moved that Ordinance #3933 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, and Vagianos
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
RECUSE: Mayor Knudsen
11. RESOLUTIONS
Ms. Mailander stated that the following resolutions, numbered 22-399 through 22-432 were to be adopted by a consent agenda and read by title only:
12. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Mayor Knudsen asked if there were any additional comments or questions from the public.
Boyd A. Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that there does not seem to be any uniformity with respect to awards for professional services. He has noted that some of the awards indicate that Pay to Play forms had been filled out, and in some cases they have not (such as for the pediatrician for the Child Health Clinics). He asked why some individuals or organizations have to fill out and file a Pay to Play form, while others do not.
Mr. Loving indicated that he was very upset to see that the Village paid $500,000.00 more for the completion of the project at the Water Pollution Control Facility. He said that he never heard any discussion regarding this matter during a Work Session. He understood that this was a legal matter that was probably discussed in Closed Session, but was still concerned that such a large sum of money is being spent without the public being aware of the details.
Mr. Loving said that he was disappointed that the Village has only one option in terms of publishing legal notices (since one company owns both newspapers). He said that he has become very disappointed lately with the coverage from the local newspaper, citing that there was no mention whatsoever of the “Downtown for the Holidays” event, despite it being one of the biggest events of the year. However, these newspapers are paid thousands of dollars a year for the publication of legal notices. Mr. Loving mentioned that there is pending legislation in New Jersey proposing that legal notices will no longer need to be published in the newspaper but could instead be posted on a municipality’s website.
Rurik Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, said that he agreed with Mr. Loving about the $500,000.00 being spent, since he has no information whatsoever regarding the nature of this expenditure. He would like more information regarding same.
Mr. Halaby said that he finally managed to print the plans regarding the Schedler property, but the writing was so small that he couldn’t read anything. He would like to obtain another set of plans (not a full size, but maybe half or quarter size), so that he can read the details on the plans. However, he does not want to pay for it, because he feels that the Village should make enlarged plans available to the public upon request.
When directly questioned by Mr. Halaby, Ms. Mailander replied that she was not sure whether the plans could be printed in that manner, but she would find out if it could be done and what the charge would be for same. Mr. Halaby reiterated that he does not want to pay for anything, stating that he is entitled to be able to read the information contained in the plans, which are posted on the Village website. Ms. Mailander invited Mr. Halaby to come to Village Hall to view the full-sized plans. Ms. Mailander indicated that under the Open Public Records Act (OPRA), she would be allowed to charge Mr. Halaby for the cost of the reproduction. Mr. Halaby steadfastly refused to pay for anything, reiterating that he cannot read the plans on his computer or on his printouts, that he pays taxes, and that he is entitled, as an interested resident, to be provided with plans that he can read, at no charge.
When questioned by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Halaby replied that he can expand the plans on his computer, but that it is difficult to do so because zooming in on one area, obscures his ability to view the “big picture.” Councilman Vagianos stated that he is waiting for an enlarged copy of the plans so that he can read them. He said that Mr. Halaby would be welcome to borrow his set of plans to review. Mr. Halaby thanked Councilman Vagianos for his offer, but stated that he felt the Village should provide him and other residents with plans that they can read.
Deputy Mayor Perron stated that OPRA requires the Village to produce documents and charge the person requesting the documents for the cost of such reproduction. She offered to pay the fee on Mr. Halaby’s behalf. Mr. Halaby thanked her for her offer, but repeated that he felt the Village should provide him with readable plans at no cost. Deputy Mayor Perron replied that it doesn’t make sense that the Village should have to reproduce these plans for 25,000 residents. After further back-and-forth discussion, Mr. Rogers interjected that the Village must abide by OPRA, which does not entitle residents to a free full copy of the plans. There was further discussion about when fees could be charged or not charged regarding an OPRA request. Mayor Knudsen finalized the conversation by asking Mr. Halaby to file an appropriate OPRA request and let it be handled by the Village Clerk’s Office.
Anne Loving, 352 South Irving Street, said that she understands Councilwoman Reynolds’ request to have a vote this evening regarding the Gold Star Monument, and that the request was denied because the matter was not on the printed agenda. However, she does not understand why it was not placed on the agenda, since she was present at the December 7, 2022 meeting when Ms. Mailander read off the items that would be on this evening’s agenda.
Regarding Councilman Vagianos’s comment about, “Get it done fast or get it done right,” Ms. Loving remarked that sometimes getting something done fast is getting it done right. She doesn’t feel that the Gold Star Monument has been done fast or rushed in any way, stating that this matter has been going on for over a year. In addition, regarding Deputy Mayor Perron’s comments comparing Van Neste Square to Central Park in New York City or the mall in Washington, DC, Ms. Loving said that these locations did not compare equally to Ridgewood.
Regarding people who speak during public comments, Ms. Loving said that people often begin by stating how long they have lived in the Village. She said that it doesn’t matter if a person has lived in the Village for only five minutes. They have just as much right to state their opinion as someone who has lived in the Village for 50 years.
Since this is the last meeting over which Mayor Knudsen will be presiding, Ms. Loving thanked Mayor Knudsen for all she has done for Ridgewood over the many years she has served on the Village Council. She stated that the depth of municipal government knowledge possessed by Mayor Knudsen will be a tremendous loss to the Village. Mayor Knudsen thanked Ms. Loving for her kind words.
Mayor Knudsen mentioned a prior comment that the Village may be in violation of OPMA regarding taking the matter of the Gold Star Monument off of this evening’s agenda. She asked Ms. Mailander how the item was removed from the agenda.
Ms. Mailander replied that it was brought to her attention that when there were requests to have the hybrid meetings put to a vote, there was no clear majority that wanted to have a vote. There was no clear majority regarding the Gold Star Monument, either, since it is apparent that the Village Councilmembers are divided on this issue, and there is no fifth Councilmember to break the deadlock. In order to be fair and abide by the precedent that was set regarding the hybrid meetings, Ms. Mailander felt that the matter should be taken off the agenda. When asked by Mayor Knudsen who requested the item to be taken off the agenda, Ms. Mailander replied that Councilman Vagianos had brought to her attention that the hybrid meetings were not put on an agenda for a vote, which set a precedent.
Anne Loving stated that there was definitely a clear vote, one way or the other, regarding the hybrid meetings, since there were five Village Councilmembers (including Mayor Knudsen) sitting on the dais. In addition, she does not recall the matter of hybrid meetings ever being put on a meeting agenda. By contrast, the matter of the Gold Star Monument was initially placed on the agenda for the December 14, 2022 meeting and then subsequently removed. Ms. Loving stated that “being fair” is not necessarily the same as following the law and regulations. She stated that perhaps Councilman Vagianos’s recollection was not accurate, but if it was wrongly not put to a vote, she did not feel that it should set a precedent.
There were no further public comments and Mayor Knudsen closed the public comments portion of the meeting.
Ms. Mailander explained that Pay to Play forms must be filled out and filed for any Professional Services contract exceeding $17,500.00.
13. CLOSED SESSION
Ms. Mailander read the following resolution #22-433, to go into Closed Session:
14. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Deputy Mayor Perron, seconded by Councilman Vagianos, and carried by unanimous voice vote, the Village Council’s Regular Public Meeting was adjourned at 9:40 P.M.
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Susan Knudsen
Mayor
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Heather A. Mailander
Village Manager/Village Clerk
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