20160323 - Village Council Special Public Meeting Minutes

A SPECIAL PUBLIC MEETING OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE CAMPUS CENTER OF THE RIDGEWOOD HIGH SCHOOL, 627 EAST RIDGEWOOD AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY ON MARCH 23, 2016 AT 7:30 P.M.

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

Mayor Aronsohn called the meeting to order at 7:42 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act.  At roll call, the following were present:  Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn.  Also present were Roberta Sonenfeld, Village Manager; Heather Mailander, Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney. 

2.           ORDINANCE – PUBLIC HEARING - #3521 – BOND ORDINANCE – CONSTRUCTION OF HUDSON     STREET PARKING DECK ($11,500,000)

Mayor Aronsohn moved the second reading of Ordinance 3521 and that the Public Hearing be opened. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                   Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3521 by title:

              BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE HUDSON STREET

              PARKING DECK IN AND BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF

              BERGEN, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $11,500,000 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING

              THE ISSUANCE OF $11,500,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE THE

              COST THEREOF

 

Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was open. 

Jim Griffith, 159 South Irving Street, said that this has been a long fight, and everything has been put out to the public, and everything has been transparent.  He said that they have reduced the size of the parking deck and they are closed to the finish line, which is good. 

Mr. Griffith said that he is thrilled where they are now, and he is sorry for the nonsense that has gone on with those who are opposed to the parking deck.  He said that their words were false, and some people have turned this Village into a moral slum.  He asked if anyone had died, and he answered that they have not.  He asked if anyone has been hurt, and he said that the answer is yes because the Central Business District (CBD) shop owners are being hurt.  He pointed out that if the parking deck is not built, there will be great harm to the business community.  He concluded by saying that the Village is great and they need to make this big investment in order to help the CBD. 

Rurik Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, urged four of the Village Councilmembers to vote yes for this bond ordinance, because Ridgewood needs a garage.  He said that the new design looks great, and within a year, Mt. Carmel Church will love the garage.  It will be a great place to park for many in the community.  He asked the Village Councilmembers to hold onto their positions and hang in there.

John Saraceno, 17 Coventry Court, said that his company almost developed a parking garage on North Walnut Street several years ago.  Since that time, the Village has tried to create more parking in the CBD.  He said that this parking deck has now gotten caught up in politics, relative to the Municipal Election to be held in May.  He simply stated that the Village needs a parking garage.  He said that no parking garage is perfect, and he hopes that the Village Council will not let politics get in the way of progress.  He urged the Village Councilmembers to support the CBD and establish something good for Ridgewood. 

Andrew Silverstein, 17 Chestnut Street, who is part owner of Roots Steak House, explained that they have other Roots restaurants in other municipalities in New Jersey, such as Princeton, Summit, and Morristown, and they have parking garages for patrons of shops and businesses.  He urged them to vote in favor of the bonding for the parking garage. 

Hans-Jurgen Lehmann, 234 Union Street, said that he lives a few block from the CBD, he volunteers on the Zoning Board of Adjustment and SHARE Housing.  He loves Ridgewood, and people come here for the housing, the CBD, the schools.  He said that the CBD is very nice and is a hub for Bergen County.  He emphasized that it is important to provide parking and it is a good idea to build a parking deck.  The Rich and Associates study from the 1990s indicated that there was over a 1,000 parking space shortage in the CBD.  Mr. Lehmann indicated that there is over a 2,000 parking space shortage at this time, so he recommends that a parking garage be built.

Tony Damiano, 274 South Broad Street, owner of the store, Mango Jam, and President of the Ridgewood Guild, stated that he endorses Option D.  Mr. Damiano apologized to the architect of the parking deck, Ken Schier, as a previous statement he made about the parking deck was incorrect and was his error.  He hopes that the Village Council votes wisely, and he pointed out that the CBD is the heartbeat of Ridgewood.  He said that many businesses are in favor of a parking garage, but they are afraid to speak up about it.   He stated that the Ridgewood Blog is social media at its worst, and he read 21 anonymous comments, which shows cowardice.  He emphasized that people should sign their names to posts on social media and respect each other.  Mr. Damiano concluded by saying that no retail chains will come to Ridgewood because there isn’t sufficient parking in the CBD.  He hoped that the Village Council would make the right decision.

John Vermylen, 241 North Walnut Street, said that he chose to move to Ridgewood because of the CBD, and he is committed to a vibrant CBD.  Mr. Vermylen said that a parking garage will help the CBD, and that Hudson Street is a good location for the parking garage.  The tone of the debate has not been pleasant at times. He said that some have misbehaved on this issue and treated each other poorly.  Mr. Vermylen said that he wants to thank the opposition, because Option D is a good design.  He also thanked the group with the petition to say “No to the BCIA”, because he wishes to have this project funded by Ridgewood.  Mr. Vermylen asked all of the Councilmembers to vote yes on this ordinance. 

Kevin Mattessich, 836 Morningside Road, said he has lived in the Village for a long time.  The town is so divided, and at such an impasse.  He said that this Village Council should not vote on this issue tonight; instead, they should get it ready for the new Village Council taking office on July 1, 2016.   He pointed out that the new Village Council may want two garages with two stories each or they may want to consider making some of the streets in the CBD one-way streets in order to put in angled parking.  Mr. Mattessich said that if the Village Council goes any further, it will divide the Village more, and it will never be mended.

Jeanette LaRocco, 454 Bogert Avenue, said that this is an important ordinance, and she believes the parking garage is still oversized.  She said that the Village Council should vote no on this ordinance and continued working on a compromise so that there can be a unanimous vote.

Bruce or Leonora Reynolds, 427 Ponfield Place, said that he is a 21 year resident and said  that he is opposed to the parking garage for several reasons including the fact that it is a public safety issue; the entire study concerning the parking garage is not broad enough; he moved to the Village because it is quaint and charming and the parking garage will be an eyesore; the process was not followed properly, because there should be a vote on this at the November General Election; the Village Council saw the vote on the referendum a mandate from the people, but that is wrong; he is not happy with the involvement of the BCIA; the businesses that are here are the present time may not be here in the next two years.  Ms. Mr. Reynolds said that by going to the referendum vote in November, it will stop the arguments about this matter between residents. 

Art Wrubel, 79 Ridge Road, said that he was the former Chair of the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC).  He said that most parking lots are eyesores, and the parking garage will be a positive contribution to the parking lot.  Mr. Wrubel said that the parking garage has a good scale to it and it is not overwhelming.  He pointed out that the architecture for the parking garage is compatible with the Village architecture.  Mr. Wrubel concluded by saying that he has lived in the Village for 50 years, said that those who say this Village Council should not vote on the parking garage are not thinking about what is good for the future.  Mr. Wrubel emphasized that the vote should be done now and should not wait for a new Village Council.

Gary Negrycz, 501 Dorchester Road, said that the Village wants and needs a garage.  He said that the Village should pay for the parking garage in-house, because in this way, Ridgewood residents can get priority for parking and the Village will have control of the garage. 

Mr. Negrycz asked if the Village has looked at the mechanicals and where to get rid of the carbons monoxide in the parking garage.  Mr. Negrycz said that the Village residents want the parking garage now, and they want to see the inside of the garage, not just a cartoon drawing of the garage.  He concluded by saying that he wants a parking garage, but he wants the Village to own it.  He asked the Village Council to show the residents what they are buying in the parking garage.

Kathleen Noe, 623 Ellington Road, said that Ridgewood is a special place, and what has happened lately between all of the residents is horrible.  She said that in order to maintain the character of Ridgewood, that the Village Council should not finance the parking garage with the BCIA.  Ms. Noe indicated that she does not want to support the developer’s needs so she does not want the County to be involved.  She wants to have the Village remain as it is now.  She thanked the Village Council for the time they have spent serving the Village and said that she wants all of the neighbors to be happy. 

Sally Brandes, 515 Stevens Avenue, stated that she does not think that one parking garage is sufficient to take care of the parking needs, and thinks that there should be two garages. 

Changing the subject, she said that the Village is catering to developers, which is the real concern.  Although some say there is no room for low income housing she wondered if the Village can’t make room.

Ms. Brandes indicated that she has lived in the Village for 42 years, and she would like the Hudson Street lot to stay the way it currently is, for the sake of Mt. Carmel Church. 

Diane Palacios, 342 North Van Dien Avenue, indicated that she has lived in the Village since 1978, and she believes that a parking garage will not work in the CBD because Ridgewood has charm, and an atmosphere, and is a Village and a large garage would destroy the soul of Ridgewood.  She recommended that there be several two-level parking decks on various parking lots in the CBD.  Ms. Palacios said that although she does not know Dave Slomin, she loves his ideas, and he begged to be given a chance to use his ideas. 

Bob Fuhrman, 49 Clinton Avenue, said he is not in favor of having a referendum question on the November General Election ballot.  He said that the Village should not go to the BCIA for funding, because he would like the Village to take care of its own parking garage.

Saurabh Dani, 390 Bedford Road, said that two Village Council meetings ago, the residents asked for the BCIA ordinance to be repealed on the same night that the bond ordinance to fund the parking garage within Ridgewood was to be adopted.  He said that the residents believed this would happen, but the Village Council did not keep their word to do it this way. 

Mr. Dani asked when the details of the make-up of the parking garage, how many commuter parking spots and how many parking spots would be for shoppers and diners would be known.  Mr. Dani said that this evening, a group of residents will be starting a new petition to stop all funding sources for the parking garage, by stopping this ordinance if it is adopted.  Mr. Dani encouraged the Village Council to discuss the size of the parking garage with each other in order to get a parking garage which is the right size.  Mr. Dani concluded by saying that the Village Council should keep their promise to reduce the size of the parking garage.

Carrie Giordano, 57 North Hillside Place, agreed with Mr. Dani that there should be a plan and a vision. She also agreed with Councilman Sedon that there should be more parking on the streets with parallel parking and that the parking garage is too high.

Lorraine Reynolds, 550 Wyndemere Avenue, said that the new plan for the parking garage is the best plan to date, but she thinks that the Village can do better.  She said that the Village Council has not been open and honest about the parking garage, because they did not tell the public that the parking garage encroached onto Hudson Street.  Ms. Reynolds pointed out that the residents asked for a 3-dimensional version of this parking garage so that they can visualize the parking garage within the existing streetscape to determine how tall it is.  She said that she knows that this can be done.  Ms. Reynolds urged the Village Council to postpone the vote on this bond ordinance for one week to see what the costs would be for one less level on the parking garage. 

Changing the subject, Ms. Reynolds said that under the terms of the statute, the petitioners have 10 days to withdraw their petition to stop the BCIA funding which was certified this evening by Ms. Mailander, the Village Clerk.  Therefore, the petitioners have until April 2, 2016 to withdraw the petition.  The special election for this matter is to be scheduled no less than 40 days nor more than 90 days after the petition withdrawal expiration date.  It is now less than 40 days to the May 10, 2016 Municipal Election, so the referendum question will not be able to be included on the May 10, 2016 ballot; instead, a special election will be needed to hold the vote on the petition which was certified by Ms. Mailander this evening.    

Jacqueline Hone, 30 Carriage Lane, stated that the Village Council should not put the referendum on the May 10, 2016 Municipal Election ballot.  She said that in the statute, it says “not less than 40 days” from the certification by the Municipal Clerk.  That means the earliest the referendum could be considered is May 12, 2016.  She recommended that they table the current design for the parking garage and work together.

There were no other comments from the public, and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                   Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

Councilwoman Knudsen indicated that she will support the ordinance tonight, although she agrees that the garage is too tall and it does not harmonize with the existing streetscape.  Additional parking will benefit the Village, its residents and the businesses in the CBD. She thanked the residents who emailed the Village Councilmembers to give them their thoughtful and considerate opinions.  She said that she is hoping that the Village Council can work together to address the height of the proposed garage.

Councilman Pucciarelli said that the process has not been flawed or undemocratic; instead it has been a protracted, thorough process.  He indicated that the design chosen is a good compromise.  He urged his fellow Councilmembers to pull together and make the garage a reality.  He emphasized that the Village Councilmembers have a responsibility to vote on this ordinance, and every matter cannot be put to a referendum.  He reminded those present that this is a self-funding garage, being paid for out of the parking utility. 

Councilman Sedon stated that the Village has reached a point where decisions must be made.  He emphasized that the garage will be built, and that there are two other items which will be worked on in the near future.  He said that the first is if the side streets in the CBD are made one-way streets, there would be 60-80 additional parking spaces, which is an additional $168,000 in revenue.  The second item is that he is researching a Business Improvement District, so that the businesses in the CBD will help pay towards the parking garage.

Councilwoman Hauck said that the parking deck has been the best experience that she has ever had.  She said that everyone has different opinions, and it is alright to disagree and listen with respect.  She emphasized that Plan D is a balance, and it does not make sense to go any smaller. 

Mayor Aronsohn noted that the parking deck project has been a long process, which has been engaging and worthwhile.  He stated that democracy is messy, but everyone wants to do the right thing.  He emphasized that this is an important moment in the life of the Village as the Village Council moves forward.  He said that everyone involved should feel good about this.

Councilwoman Hauck moved that Ordinance 3521 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                   Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

 

Mayor Aronsohn pointed out that next week, the Village Council will introduce an ordinance to rescind the Lease Agreement with the BCIA.  He thanked everyone for being here tonight.

3.           MULTI-FAMILY HOUSING ORDINANCES – PUBLIC HEARINGS

Prior to moving into the Public Hearings for the multi-family housing ordinances, Mayor Aronsohn reminded everyone that in June 2015, the Planning Board adopted four ordinances for multi-family housing.  The second reading and Public Hearings for these ordinances were held on September 16, 2015 and September 30, 2015.  Firms have been hired to conduct multi-family housing impact studies in the areas of traffic, schools (education), infrastructure, and a build-out analysis.  There was a public presentation in March.   

Mayor Aronsohn thanked the consultants for being at the meeting this evening.  Ms. Sonenfeld indicated that at the last meeting, the consultants gave their presentations, and the consultant will now answer questions from the last meeting. 

Susan Favate, from BFJ spoke about the build-out analysis concerning water, sewer, and emergency responders.  She said that if the makeup of the multi-family housing is 45% studio and one bedroom; 51% two bedrooms; and 5% three bedrooms.  This is a conservative analysis, and she believes there will not be additional three bedroom units unless they take away the total units.  As to the number of affordable housing units in one location, it is a 15% set aside on each of the sites.  Ken Smith is a large site, and it is unlikely that there will be a bigger parcel of land.  If there is additional property bought, The Enclave will have ¾ of an acre for additional parcels, which is 23 more units.  Ms. Favate explained that more sewer service is not necessary, because the Water Pollution Control Facility is only at 60% capacity.  The developments on Dayton Street and at the Ken Smith sites may need bigger sewer lines.  There will be no further water needed than that which already exists, because Ridgewood Water is only at a 1% capacity.  Ms. Favate reiterated that their analysis is very conservative. 

Ross Haber, who did the education study, said that there would be 64 new students in the Ridge and Orchard schools, which is about six new children per grade. The conclusion is that there is not a tremendous issue to the school system, since the numbers are negligible, based on enrollment history.  In fact, there has been a decrease of 100 students in the Ridgewood school system from last year to this year. 

Gordon Meth reported on the traffic studies.  He said that the walking routes to the schools would be from South Broad Street to Ackerman Avenue, which both have sidewalks.  The other option would be to go under Garber Square, at the train station parking lot, to West Ridgewood Avenue.

Tina Long, from Urbanomics, said that the economic effect of more residents is that there will be more revenue in the CBD.  She said that there is a cyclical nature of assessed values and their evaluation was very conservative.  They worked with the Village Tax Assessor.  The income and tax revenues were on the low end.   

a.       Ordinance #3489 – Amend Chapter 190 – Land Use and Development – Establish AH-2 Zone District

Mayor Aronsohn moved the seventh reading of Ordinance 3489 and that the Public Hearing be continued. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                   Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3489 by title:

              AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD AMENDING THE ZONE

              CLASSIFICATION AND REGULATIONS FOR CERTAN PROPERTIES FROM THE

              B-2 ZONE DISTRICT INTO A NEW AH-2 ZONE DISTRICT

Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was now continued.   Rurik Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, thanked the Village Council for their courage in voting 5-0 for the bond ordinance.  Mr. Halaby said that she has lived here for 48 years, and for the last ten years, Mr. Halaby has noticed a downward trend in the CBD.  He said that he looks forward to the multi-family developments and they will have a positive impact on the Village.  He said that the apartments will be better than boarded up buildings.  Mr. Halaby urged the Village Council to vote in favor of multi-family housing. 

John Saraceno, 17 Coventry Court, said that he has been a resident for eighteen years and is one of the developers for multi-family housing.  He said that he has served on the Library Board of Trustees and has coached for his sons’ teams.   Mr. Saraceno stated that multi-family housing will bring vibrancy back to the CBD, and he wants to be part of the process, since the CBD is what makes Ridgewood special.  He said that he wanted 37 units/acre but he will develop what is economically viable.  He said that he respects Ridgewood, yet he and the other developers are portrayed as demons.  He emphasized that the residential proposals are best for Ridgewood and admitted that change is scary, but everyone can be a part of it. 

Jeanette LaRocco, 454 Bogert Avenue, said that the Master Plan is all-encompassing.  She stated that there should be a limit to the number of multi-family units, and it should not be a hodgepodge.  The multi-family units should not allow for too many children.  She believes that the multi-family housing will punish and push out the residents who do not want to be in a city.  She asked that the Village Council keep Ridgewood special, because once a precedent is set, there is no going back. 

Peter Cahill, a resident on Madison Avenue, stated that it seems that everyone is pro-developer and they are ignoring the possibility that the number of children will increase through these multi-family units.

Anna Spalckhaver, 476 Alpine Terrace, said that she is a 50-year resident and she taught school in the Village for 30 years.  She said that the multi-family housing will have an impact on the schools.  She is concerned about how the character of Ridgewood will be permanently changed and the charm will be gone forever.  She emphasized that this Village Council will be remembered if they vote in favor of multi-family housing.  Ms. Spalckhaver is most concerned about the density of the multi-family housing.  She said that if you drive down Oak Street, you can see the children who live in the Oak Street apartments going to Ridge School.  She stated that the schools in Ridgewood are crowded and the parents with special needs children come to Ridgewood schools and that number increases every year. 

Ms. Spalckhaver also said that the traffic around Broad Street, with both the parking garage and the multi-family housing will cause a great amount of traffic.  She emphasized that Ridgewood will look like Hackensack or Teaneck.  She also stated that there has never been a time like this in Ridgewood where so many residents are upset about developments, and she blamed the Village Council.  She concluded by saying that the only people who will suffer will be the residents, but hopefully, they will prevail. 

Art Wrubel, 79 Ridge Road, said that there are four sites proposed for multi-family housing, and the site on Chestnut Street looks like a slum.  He emphasized that these sites will be developed, and there could be a combination of a commercial use and housing or perhaps a new CVS drugstore.  This is what will happen if multi-family housing is not developed on these sites.  He stated that in the future, residents will drive past these developed sites and think what could have been built instead.  Mr. Wrubel stated that the developers are waiting to develop housing because they have the interest of the Village at heart. He indicated that the four sites for multi-family housing are not within sight of each other.  He pointed out that the multi-family housing impact studies proved that their effects on the schools and traffic will be deminimis. 

Gary Negrycz, 501 Dorchester Road, said that there are five multi-family housing ordinances before the Village Council at one time. He said that there are over 5,000 students of 25,000 residents, who come from single family homes.  Mr. Negrycz calculated that the multi-family housing will produce 407 bedrooms.  If half of them or 203 bedrooms are allocated to couples, that will produce 406 cars.  If the rest of the bedrooms have only one child each, that will produce 203 children, not just 66 children.  Mr. Negrycz said that in New York City, the rent is $3,500 per month.  He said that people won’t pay that kind of money to live next to the Ridgewood train station, especially when someone can rent a home in Ridgewood for $2,500 per month.  Mr. Negrycz is convinced that the Village will have to build bigger schools.

Dave Slomin, 36 Heights Road, indicated that for the last four years, Citizens for a Better Ridgewood (CBR) have asked questions which have not been answered.  The Planning Board has ignored CBR and it seems that now the Village Council will do so.  Mr. Slomin said that the multi-family housing should be put to a referendum vote.  Mr. Slomin explained that on Monday night, there was a town hall meeting with the developers of multi-family housing but no one came, because they don’t support the developers’ vision for Ridgewood.  The Village Council is set to vote on the multi-family housing which is simply too big for the town that the residents love.  Mr. Slomin indicated that there is a difference of opinion between the Planning Board and the Village Council and the majority of Ridgewood residents because the multi-family housing is a more urban look and feel, and the residents want a small town feel.  Mr. Slomin asked this Village Council not to leave a mess for the new Village Council.  Mr. Slomin encouraged the Village Council to listen to CBR as residents, because they are willing to have development, they are just naysayers to bad planning.  Mr. Slomin concluded by stating that CBR wants 25 units/acre instead of 35 units/acre. 

Jeff Voigt, 99 Glenwood Road, asked why a sensitivity analysis was not done.  Mr. Voigt pointed out that the multi-family housing ordinances are spot zoning, because the Ken Smith property has been commercially zoned for years.  According to Mr. Voigt, a Supreme Court case stated that new zones created should be consistent with the surrounding zones, yet this is not the case for the multi-family zones.  Mr. Voigt stated that the density of the multi-family housing is driven by Ridgewood’s affordable housing obligation.  He wondered why the Village is trying to address a number of affordable housing units if the number of affordable housing units required is unknown.   

Jim O’Day, 53 Boyce Place, asked if the consultants looked at rentals vs. condo ownership in their impact studies.  Mr. O’Day said that he has many concerns about increased numbers of children in the schools.  He also asked if the consultants looked at the financial impact on tax revenue for one bedroom apartments vs. condos.  Mr. O’Day stated that the condos will generate more tax revenue for the Village.  He said that the rental units will use the school system more than the condos.

Saurabh Dani, 390 Bedford Road, said that the school impact study is incorrect because the number of two bedroom units was not calculated correctly.  Mr. Dani asked if some of these multi-family units are for empty nesters in Ridgewood, why they don’t designate them as age 55+ units.  Mr. Dani asked why the existing apartments could not be rebuilt at a higher density if the decision is to allow 35 units/acre in the multi-family housing zones.  Mr. Dani said that he is not just opposed to Mr. Saraceno’s project.  Mr. Dani pointed out that three of the current Councilmembers will not be on the Village Council, because they are not running for re-election in May.  Mr. Dani encouraged them to defer the vote on multi-family housing to the next Village Council.

Kevin Mattessich, 836 Morningside Road, indicated that studies have not shown why people move to Ridgewood, but no one said multi-family housing.  No one is paying less in taxes due to the blight in the CBD.  He has heard it said that the multi-family housing will be great for the empty nesters.  He asked why the existing apartments and condos are not good enough for the empty nesters.  He wondered if the developers can build better apartments than the Oak Street or Heights Road apartments which already exist. 

Mr. Mattessich said that three of the Councilmembers should recuse themselves from the vote on multi-family housing since Mr. Saraceno, one of the developers, held a dinner for Governor Christie a few years ago, and Mayor Aronsohn, Councilwoman Hauck, and Councilman Pucciarelli all attended the dinner for free.  It would be a conflict of interest for them to vote on the multi-family housing since they went to the dinner for free which was sponsored by Mr. Saraceno.  Mr. Mattessich said that there is no independent view of this matter and there needs to be finality. 

Mr. Mattessich said that if he has a half acre lot, then he should be able to build eighteen units on it.  Some of the older one family homes should be allowed to become three family homes if they wish to do so.  Mr. Mattessich indicated that the Village Council is not in favor of the residents, they are in favor of the developers. 

Scott Van Den Bosch, 302 Stevens Avenue, said that the current estimate on students in existing housing is not accurate, because many children live in the Oak Street apartments.  Mr. Van Den Bosch stated that when he moved to Ridgewood, he thought that the town was fully developed, but he was wrong.  He pointed out that the 35 units per acre will set a precedent for future development in Ridgewood.  He emphasized that it is irresponsible to allow all four multi-family housing sites to be developed at once, and urged that the development of these site be slow and methodical.  Mr. Van Den Bosch concluded by stating that the new Village Council should make the final decision. 

Ronald Simoncini, 249 Bogert Avenue, said that there a lot of long-time residents in Ridgewood.  He said that the adoption of the multi-family housing ordinances is a government question, and the Village Council should call the game the way they see the game.  Mr. Simoncini said that he was proud to vote for the Village Council because they promised to solve the multi-family housing and parking issues.  He was glad, because these issues should have been solved long ago. 

Mr. Simoncini said that there is a division in the Village, and there is a group who circulated petitions to overturn a 5-0 vote adopting the bond ordinance for the parking deck on Hudson Street.  Mr. Simoncini said that he does not know if the number is 25 units per acre or 35 units per acre, and some residents say that Blais Brancheau, the Village Planner, does not know what he is doing. 

Mr. Simoncini said that the Village currently has 25,000 residents, and if 400 more residents are added, that will take Ridgewood to forty years in the future.  He said that he trusts the Village Council’s ability to vote as they should. 

Steve DiRado, 112 Hope Street, said that the Village can’t squander its existing charm, because it won’t come back once it is gone.  He stated that the Village will regret it and Ridgewood will no longer be Ridgewood.  Mr. DiRado emphasized that the Village Councilmembers’ ambition is preventing them from listening to the residents.  He has not yet heard how the apartments which will be built will be a good thing for the Village.  He urged the Village Council to stick with the 25 units per acre.

Mr. DiRado pointed out that this will be the last big thing that Mayor Aronsohn, Councilwoman Hauck, and Councilman Pucciarelli will do in their remaining time on the Village Council.  He urged them not to adopt the multi-family housing ordinances and instead, be happy that they are going to build the parking deck.

There were no further comments from the public and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                   Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

 

Ms. Sonenfeld reviewed various questions that were asked during the Public Hearing. 

Ms. Favate explained that all of the consultants looked at the worst case scenario in all of the analyses that were done.  She indicated that it would be a maximum of 247 units to be built, which is 211 one bedroom; 109 two bedroom; and 20 three bedroom units.  This would be the worst case scenario. 

Mr. Haber said that he spent time doing the Ridgewood public schools study.  There was a question about the special education children.  He explained that he is aware that Ridgewood is a fully inclusive school district with special education student, and all of that was taken into account. 

As far as the Oak Street apartments are concerned, Mr. Haber said that 77 units will yield 51 children and 74 units will yield 29 children.  Mr. Haber said that he looked at the total yield, and what is relevant to Ridgewood.  He explained that he broke down the market rate units vs. the affordable housing units and found that out of 100 units, 98 would be market rate units and 2 affordable housing units.  He indicated that in those units, there would be twelve children.   This would mean if those children went to Orchard School, where there are currently fifteen students in Kindergarten, it would increase that class size by two or three students.  Mr. Haber said that he is very comfortable with the numbers and the yield and that he has a high confidence in them.

Tina Lund, from Urbanomics, stated that rental vs. ownership was not looked at, but overall, there is very little impact.

Gordon Meth stated that the intersection of East Ridgewood Avenue and Broad Street should be addressed because there are many pedestrians and cars at that intersection.  He is certain that the intersection of Broad Street and Hudson Street can handle the projected increased traffic. 

Concerning the question about spot zoning, Mr. Rogers explained that spot zoning is the use of zoning power to promote a private purpose.  Mr. Rogers said that there is a mandate under that State constitution for affordable housing, so this type of housing is not considered spot zoning. 

Mr. Rogers stated that there are four properties suitable for affordable housing in the CBD.  The Planning Board will be looking to see if there are other sites suitable for affordable housing.  Mr. Rogers stated that Mr. Brancheau can speak to that process, but each site must be looked at separately to determine if it is suitable.  As far as the 35 units per acre, he explained that only those sites zoned for multi-family housing are able to build this many units per acre, and it is not applicable Village-wide. 

Blais Brancheau, Village Planner, explained that one estimate of the number of affordable housing units to be developed is 1,100 units, and another estimate is 462 affordable units.  The Village’s affordable housing obligation is somewhere within that range.  There are currently some affordable units at Ridgecrest Senior Housing; on Broad Street in the Woodside Housing; and on Leonard Place, which total approximately 150 affordable housing units.  This means over 300 affordable housing units are still needed, at the low end of the estimate.  Mr. Brancheau indicated that the Village of Ridgewood lacks sufficient land to meet that obligation.

Mr. Brancheau stated this in the first two COAH rounds, the Village did not address all of its affordable housing obligations.  The Planning Board will now look at other sites for redevelopment, in order to meet the affordable housing obligations, but even doing that, the Village will fall far short of its affordable housing obligation. 

Councilwoman Hauck pointed out that if the Village Council adopts the multi-family housing ordinances, it will provide for 45 affordable housing units in total, which will show a good faith effort to the court.  Mr. Brancheau indicated that this cannot be discussed, because this matter is currently in mediation. 

Councilman Pucciarelli said that one person who spoke tonight said that he spoke for the majority of the residents of Ridgewood.  He wondered what influenced that person.  Councilman Pucciarelli indicated that he is pursuing public safety and happiness and that empirical data from experts influences him.  He stated that the multi-family ordinances also influence him because they are well-crafted.

Prior to the vote on Ordinance 3489, there were comments from the Village Council.  Councilwoman Hauck said that this is not an easy vote, because it will alter Ridgewood’s history.  However, there have been other changes in Ridgewood’s history through the years as well.  She said that she will be supporting the multi-family ordinances for three reasons.  The first is that the experts have supported the proposed zoning changes.  The second is that there is a court order to create affordable housing units and all legal counsel, as well as the Planning Board, have supported moving forward with these ordinances.  The third is that Ridgewood has had huge changes in the past, such as building various schools and the building of The Lawns residential area off of Grove Street.  The Village government has put a lot of study into these changes and she is comfortable with them.

Councilwoman Knudsen said that she will be voting against these multi-family housing ordinances, because the Master Plan requires resident input, which has been absent from the process at the Planning Board.

Councilman Pucciarelli thanked the Planning Board for the multi-family housing ordinances which were well thought out.  He said that he will be voting in favor of these ordinances.

Councilman Sedon said that the residents have been told that the CBD is in a decline, yet a parking garage is needed.  He said that these ordinances will bring about big changes and change on this scale is not good.  The density is too high and the intersections will be filled with dense traffic.  Councilman Sedon said that neither young professionals nor empty nesters will want to buy these units.  These units will appeal to young families with school-aged children, which will bring more congestion and more traffic.  This is not proactive planning, and Councilman Sedon indicated that the he will be voting against these ordinances.

Councilman Pucciarelli moved that Ordinance 3489 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Hauck seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                  Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS:                  Councilmembers Knudsen and Sedon

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

 

At this time, Councilwoman Knudsen left the dais.

 

b.      Ordinance #3490 – Amend Chapter 190 – Land Use and Development – Establish B-3-R Zone District

Mayor Aronsohn moved the seventh reading of Ordinance 3490 and that the Public Hearing be continued.  Councilwoman Hauck seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                  Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             Councilwoman Knudsen

ABSTAIN:            None

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3490 by title:

              AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD CHANGING THE ZONE

              CLASSIFICATION FOR CERTAN PROPERTIES FROM THE B-1, B-2 AND

C ZONE DISTRICTS TO A NEW B-3-R ZONE DISTRICT AND ADOPTING

REGULATIONS FOR THE NEW B-3-R ZONE DISTRICT

 

Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was now continued.   Claude Bienstock, 39-11 B Broadway, Fair Lawn, suggested that the Village Council vote for what they think is in the best interest of Ridgewood residents.  He said that the Village Council must listen to the voice of the people, and do what they think is best for the Village, although everyone will not agree with their decision.  Mr. Bienstock stated that he has a great respect for the great job the Village Council is doing and that decisions are tough. 

Chris Kaufman, 642 Midwood Road, said that the Village Council must listen to the majority in making their decisions.  He said that he is a real estate agent, and that people move to Ridgewood for the schools.  He agreed that the school-aged population goes up and down and renters are able to get new units by renting.   Once the new multi-family units are built, the people in the mid-range homes will not be able to sell because their homes will be outdated.  Mr. Kaufman said that he sees a change coming, and it is sad. 

Mr. Kaufman emphasized that the Village Council majority does not represent the majority of the residents.  Only two Councilmembers represent the majority of the residents and he urged that more studies be done.  Mr. Kaufman concluded by saying that he is not happy with the education/school study that was done.

Linda Kotch, 60 North Hillside Place, stated that she knows the Village Council is committed to this, but as she listened to the reports she found it hard to believe that the results of the education/schools and traffic studies were counter-intuitive.  Ms. Kotch said that she speaks for so many when she is asking why the number of units is being increased to 35 units per acre when everyone was happy with 24 units per acre.  Ms. Kotch indicated that mixed use will make the best use of the space available.

Ms. Kotch said that she disagrees with Mr. Damiano, because she does not believe that increased parking will save the retail stores in the CBD.  She explained that the Village needs a Master Plan that makes sense on a big scale that includes parking and development in the CBD.  Ms. Kotch said that the Village Council is making a hasty decision, and she is sorry that she missed Mr. Saraceno’s presentation.  Ms. Kotch explained that if she was going to renovate her house, she would do it as a whole and not piecemeal. 

Linda Tarzian, 576 Highland Avenue, thanked the Village Councilmembers for their service to the Village.  She indicated that when people buy homes in Ridgewood they do so for the homes and the CBD.  Some people who bought homes near the CBD will now be next to high density housing.  She asked when the Village Council considered the Master Plan and will there be additional Fire and Police services necessary for the multi-family housing.   She concluded by asking whether the Village Council is listening to those who elected them.

Bill McCabe, 96 Avondale Road, indicated that he wanted to clarify the numbers.  He heard that 462 was the low end of the affordable housing obligation.  If four multi-family housing developments result in 45 affordable housing units, he estimated that many more affordable housing developments will have to be built to meet the affordable housing obligation.  He wondered if existing units could be made affordable housing units. 

Mr. McCabe stated that he attended the September 16, 2015 Public Meeting, and there is a huge deficit in the affordable housing numbers, and there is going to be spot zoning tied to affordable housing.

Sandipan Deb, 250 Phelps Road, stated that people have to get used to change.  If the court mandates the number of units per acre, the outcome could be worse than it is now.   There is also a lawsuit, so he said to move forward now.  He asked why all of the affordable housing units are needed.  He said that many communities are in a far worse state than Ridgewood with affordable housing.  Mr. Deb asked if there is money from the State to help the towns to build affordable housing. 

Mr. Deb said that the Village Council should hold off on voting on these multi-family housing ordinances and the threat of a lawsuit is not a good reason to move forward.  Mr. Deb explained that the Village Council must represent the residents’ views, and right now, people are angry.

Zhenguo Wang, 169 Jeffer Court, said that he would like to make some points.  The first is that he is a scientist, and it is very unbelievable to him that the consultants are so confident in their accuracy.  He said that he moved to Ridgewood from Fort Lee because of the schools and the CBD.  He is not against change; instead, he does not want it to be too much change too quickly.  He emphasized that 35 units per acre is too much change too quickly.  Mr. Wang said that the Village Council should represent the Chinese community who do not want this change.

John Czop, 244 Pershing Avenue, said that at the January 27, 2016 Village Council meeting, Mr. Rogers said that there is a polluted stream under the Walnut Street parking lot.  Mr. Czop said that a consultant should look at the polluted stream.  He wondered if the polluted stream is a reason not to develop the Walnut Street lot.

Siobhan Winograd, 274 Ivy Place, said that she moved back to Ridgewood in 2006 and it is now 2016 and she was sad that when her parents sold their house, they were unable to continue living in Ridgewood because there were no apartments for them to live in.  Ms. Winograd stated that putting commercial development into the multi-family housing zones would not be a good idea, because it would increase traffic.  She said that she would be glad to have multi-family housing, which would bring less traffic.

Ms. Winograd said that she is a mother and she is a daughter and she knows that the aging population is forced out of Ridgewood.  The affordable housing component will make everyone in Ridgewood more socially aware, which is not a bad thing.

Patrick Reilly, 160 Highland Avenue, indicated that not too many people showed up.  In most other towns, they do not have to rally because they have Master Plans, which is a promise to the people of that community.  Mr. Reilly said that the multi-family housing will change Ridgewood.  He said that Ordinance #3066 was put in place for the Valley Hospital expansion and it is why the multi-family applications are before the Village Council at this time.  Ordinance #3066 is a loophole in the zoning of the Village.  Mr. Reilly asked for Ordinance #3066 to be repealed so that Ridgewood has checks and balances. 

Amy Bourque, 133 Sheridan Terrace, said that there is a division in the Village and there are no shared visions.  She said that if the expert consultants had been available at the beginning of the multi-family housing proposal, there might have been a better process.  She recommended that the Village Council move forward and have an outside firm come in to revise the Master Plan.

John Saraceno, 17 Coventry Court, said that in response to Ms. Bourque’s comment, said that as a developer, he tried to have a dialogue with and make the residents part of the process; however, none of those gestures were appreciated.  There has been a tremendous debate about what is appropriate and what is not appropriate for the Village. 

Mr. Saraceno said that he understands that there were many people who wanted to be part of the dialogue, but they were told not to do so.  He said that he is willing to have conversations with residents, but he does not want any more fighting. 

Mr. Saraceno explained that the multi-family housing started at 37 units per acre and the Planning Board is now endorsing 35 units per acre.  He said that he will always be willing to talk to residents about this development.  He concluded by stating that he wants to protect Ridgewood, because he cares about it.

There were no further comments from the public and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                   Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

Ms. Favate answered the question about whether there would be an increased need for Police, Fire and EMS due to the multi-family housing.  She pointed out that in the report it stated that it would increase the Police calls by a maximum of 1.1%; the increase in Fire calls by a 2.6%; and a 2.9% increase in EMS calls.   She said that the question was asked how the consultants could be confident in the accuracy of their numbers.  Ms. Favate emphasized that they are confident because they have professional experience behind them and they have been conservative in their numbers.

Mr. Haber said that the numbers he used were numbers provided by the school district.  In the 2010-2011 school year there were 5,753 students and in the 2015-2016 school year, there are 5,648 students.

Mr. Rogers said that he would like Mr. Brancheau to provide clarification on the affordable housing allocation numbers.  Mr. Brancheau confirmed that the low end of the range for the number of affordable housing units required in Ridgewood is 462.  He said that he does not know why the State thinks that the Village can provide that number, because it is excessive.  Mr. Brancheau indicated that these ordinances are zoning vacant land that is suitable for affordable housing.  The overlay zones are areas which, when they are developed, will be developed with affordable housing.  Mr. Brancheau stated that the Village has not met its COAH second round affordable housing obligation of 229 affordable units, plus an additional 229 affordable units this year and four rehabilitated units.

Councilwoman Hauck asked if this requirement to meet affordable housing needs is only happening in Ridgewood.  Mr. Brancheau replied that all over the State of New Jersey towns have to deal with this, due to the court’s decision.  Mr. Rogers said that if an affordable housing lawsuit is filed, the court will determine how the Village of Ridgewood will get to the number of affordable units that are needed.  The court will decide if the Village’s affordable housing plan will be approved.  Mr. Rogers explained that the court has given the Village immunity for the time being, because the Planning Board is currently working on the housing element of the Master Plan.  Mr. Rogers pointed out that a developer may want a higher density of housing, and the court may grant it.  This is why it is important for the Village to maintain immunity from developers’ lawsuits and to establish a realistic number of units per acre when the developments begin.  The court will also decide if the overlay zones will help to fulfill the Village’s affordable housing obligation.  Mr. Rogers explained that the multi-family housing ordinances being voted on tonight will be incorporated into the housing element of the Master Plan by the Planning Board.

Concerning the contamination plume under the Walnut Street parking lot, it is on the south side of Franklin Avenue, not on the north side.  He said that the multi-family housing developments will not be affected by this plume.

On another matter, Mr. Rogers explained that Ordinance #3066 did not create a right that did not already exist.  Ordinance #3066 allows the Village to charge an applicant for use of Village experts, such as the Village Planner or the Village Engineer.

Mr. Rogers stated that every New Jersey municipality must give their housing element of the Master Plan to the court.  He noted that so far in Bergen County, the court has been reasonable, but that is not the case in other counties in New Jersey.  Councilman Pucciarelli stated that although Mr. Rogers has explained the housing element of the Master Plan as a defensive measure, Councilman Pucciarelli said that for him it should not be done as a defensive measure but as a positive to new development for more people.

Prior to the vote on Ordinance 3490, Councilwoman Hauck said that something will be built on these vacant sites being zoned for multi-family housing in the next few years, and she believes that residential development is more necessary than additional commercial development.  She indicated that she will approve the adoption of Ordinance 3490.

Councilwoman Knudsen said that she believes that zoning changes in the CBD should benefit businesses and these ordinances are being adopted for residential developers, so she is voting no on these ordinances.

Councilman Pucciarelli moved that Ordinance 3490 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Hauck seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                  Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS:                  Councilmembers Knudsen and Sedon

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

 

c.        Ordinance #3491 – Amend Chapter 190 – Land Use and Development – Establish C-R Zone District

Mayor Aronsohn moved the seventh reading of Ordinance 3491 and that the Public Hearing be continued. Councilwoman Hauck seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                  Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3491 by title:

              AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD CHANGING THE ZONE

              CLASSIFICATION FOR CERTAN PROPERTIES FROM THE C ZONE DISTRICT

TO A NEW C-R ZONE DISTRICT AND ADOPTING REGULATIONS FOR THE

NEW C-R ZONE DISTRICT

 

Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was now continued.   Linda Tarzian, 576 Highland Avenue, said that she drives in and through Ridgewood and she is concerned with the increased traffic.  She said that she is especially concerned about the intersections of Ridgewood Avenue and Broad Street, Franklin Avenue and Broad Street, and Ridgewood Avenue and Maple Avenue.  She asked the Village Council to think about the stress that will be created with the extra traffic and urged them to consider housing for age 55+, which will not create as much traffic. 

 

Janice Willett, 207 Prospect Street, said that the Village Council represents her and she does support multi-family housing.  She said that she would like a place to be built where he parents could live.  She said that this decision on affordable has been postponed for so long and by adopting these multi-family housing ordinances, it is allowing the Village to control its own destiny instead of having the court dictate what should be built.  She gave the Village Council for representing the Village residents. 

 

Councilwoman Knudsen pointed out that the developers rejected the idea of developing housing for age 55+.

 

There were no further comments from the public and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                   Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

 

Councilman Pucciarelli moved that Ordinance 3491 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Hauck seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                  Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS:                  Councilmembers Knudsen and Sedon

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

 

d.      Ordinance #3492 – Amend Chapter 190 – Land Use and Development – Establish C Zone District

Mayor Aronsohn moved the seventh reading of Ordinance 3492 and that the Public Hearing be continued. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                  Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3492 by title:

              AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD AMENDING THE

              ZONE REGULATIONS FOR THE C ZONE DISTRICT

 

Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was now continued.   There were no comments from the public and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                   Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

 

Councilman Pucciarelli moved that Ordinance 3492 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Hauck seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                  Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS:                  Councilmembers Knudsen and Sedon

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

 

e.       Ordinance #3493 – Amend Chapter 190 – Land Use and Development – Establish C Zone District

Mayor Aronsohn moved the seventh reading of Ordinance 3493 and that the Public Hearing be continued. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                  Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3493 by title:

              AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD AMENDING VARIOUS

              DEFINITIONS AND REGULATIONS PERTAINING TO INCLUSIONARY DEVELOPMENT,

              RESIDENTIAL AND NONRESIDENTIAL ZONES, YARDS ABUTTING RAILROADS,

              NUMBER OF PRINCIPAL BUILDINGS, PARKING BENEATH BUILDINGS, SIGNS IN

              RESIDENTIAL ZONE DISTRICTS, OUTDOOR STORAGE IN RESIDENTIAL ZONES,

              DISPLAY OF MOTOR VEHICLES FOR SALE, AND RECREATIONAL FACILITIES FOR

              RESIDENTIAL USES

 

Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was now continued.   Linda Tarzian, 576 Highland Avenue, said that the Village Council is not representing the Village residents.  She asked if these ordinances can be overturned.

 

There were no further comments from the public and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.

 

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                   Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

 

Councilman Pucciarelli moved that Ordinance 3493 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Hauck seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                  Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS:                  Councilmembers Knudsen and Sedon

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

 

4.           RESOLUTION

THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION, NUMBERED 16-88 WAS ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA, WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL AND WAS READ BY TITLE ONLY:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.           ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to come before the Village Council at the Special Public Meeting, on a motion by Councilman Pucciarelli, seconded by Councilwoman Knudsen, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Special Public Meeting was adjourned at 12:20 A.M. on March 24, 2016.  

 

             

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 _________________________________                                                                                                                                       Paul S. Aronsohn                                                                                                                                                                      Mayor

 

 

 

_________________________________                                                                                                                                 Heather A. Mailander                                                                                                                                                           Village Clerk

 

 

 

 

 

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