20230222 - Village Council Public Work Session Minutes

A REGULAR PUBLIC WORK SESSION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY, ON  FEBRUARY 22, 2023 AT 7:30 P.M.

 

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

 

Mayor Vagianos called the meeting to order at 7:34 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. At roll call, the following were present: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Weitz, Winograd, and Mayor Vagianos. Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk, and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney.

 

Mayor Vagianos led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag. He said that Ridgewood lost another resident this week, Susan Busche, the mother of Police Officer Doug Busche. Mayor Vagianos asked for a moment of silence in remembrance of Ms. Busche.

 

2.         COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

Jim Bostler, 821 Newcomb Road, said that he was speaking this evening against the proposed plan to construct a 90-foot baseball field at Pleasant Park. Mr. Bostler said that, at the February 1, 2023 Village Council meeting, a Councilmember asked to see an overlay showing how well a 90-foot baseball field would fit at Pleasant Park. He said that even though it may seem like such a field would fit, one needed to look at the area surrounding the proposed field, because that was the area that would be affected the most. Mr. Bostler said that Pleasant Park offers both passive and active recreation and was basically a “forest,” with many different species of trees soaring between 70 and 100 feet high, with some over 100 years old. In addition, he said that a 90-foot baseball field would interfere with Hawes School, where approximately 400 children go to school each day. Mr. Bostler indicated that a 90-foot baseball field would bring teenaged drivers to a neighborhood with multitudes of children, who would be endangered with this increase in young drivers.

 

Mr. Bostler said that Pleasant Park is already doing its “yeoman’s share of the work.” It supports two to three junior baseball leagues and contains a multiuse field for boys’ and girls’ soccer and lacrosse. Adult soccer leagues play on the field on Sundays, and older men play baseball pickup games on the weekends. He said that the park is fulfilling the needs of the Ridgewood community. He said that there are three things he is concerned about: economics, the environment and community.  Economically, he has seen plans to build a field that would cost upwards of $1.5 million.

 

Dr. Philip Dolce, 624 Kingsbridge Lane, said that he is a professional historian. He said that Ridgewood has finally “reunited the Village” across Route 17 by creating an historic district in that area. He said that the Schedler property will play a leading role in this historic district. The proposal to construct a large field on this property has been defeated multiple times in the past for “excellent reasons,” which he stated the Village Council has not acknowledged. Dr. Dolce recalled plans that were defeated in 1992, developed by the Engineering Division, which called for the elimination of the Schedler house, construction of a parking lot near Route 17, and construction of multiple athletic fields. Other plans developed by the Engineering Division in 2012, which also called for a large multipurpose field on the Schedler property, were also defeated.  He said that he and others have been fighting for 30 years to keep the Schedler property historic. 

 

Dr. Dolce said that the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) has stated that, “Historic properties and the environment in which they exist are irreplaceable assets that contribute to the quality of life that residents enjoy and expect.” Dr. Dolce said that this is what the neighbors near the Schedler property expect. However, he said that elections and other matters are “powered” by large amounts of money raised by athletic groups, and that is the reason why the plans for the Schedler property are still being discussed. Dr. Dolce said that the Village Council has to “stand behind” history, the facts, and the truth. He said that if a larger field is constructed on the Schedler property, then anyone in New Jersey will be able to use the field, since its construction was financed by the State.

 

Matthew Rossi, 516 West Saddle River Road and 28 Chestnut Street, said he was speaking this evening about the revised plans for the Schedler property. He said that everyone in Ridgewood understands the flooding that takes place in the Village. He has young children who are about to enter athletics, which he feels is very important. However, he feels that the negative effects of constructing a larger field on the Schedler property seem to far outweigh the benefits. Mr. Rossi indicated that prior plans for the development of this property are now being totally disregarded for the sake of expediency. 

 

Mr. Rossi urged the Village Council to have experts review certain topics concerning the Schedler property, the first of which is noise. He said that similar fields in adjacent towns near Route 17 have been problematic, due to noise emanating from Route 17. He asked whether anyone on the Village Council could tell him what the decibel reading would be near the proposed field area. He said that no noise studies have been done to determine the effects of noise pollution on athletics. Regarding parking, Mr. Rossi stated that West Saddle River Road is a narrow street. A larger field will result in increased traffic. He asked whether anyone could tell him how many cars a high school game would draw to the area and how that traffic would affect the neighborhood. He again pointed out that no traffic study has been performed to determine how the increased traffic would affect safety in the neighborhood.

 

Mr. Rossi suggested that other areas in Ridgewood should be considered for athletic fields, rather than the Schedler property, considering the myriad of factors that would affect the neighborhood, such as noise and traffic. He stated that he has not seen the Village Council consider alternative areas where a similar field could be constructed. Mr. Rossi said that he was not an expert on flood mitigation, Village planning, wildlife, traffic, or historic preservation. He stated that dismissing the earlier plans that were developed and considering revised plans without third-party professional studies is not fair to the neighbors of the Schedler property. He asked the Village Council to reconsider revising the plans, which will take even longer to implement because of “inherent complexities.” As a resident of the surrounding community, Mr. Rossi stated that he and his neighbors are resilient and unified on following through on the previously agreed-upon plans and that they will oppose any revised plans.

 

Patty Infantino, 6 Betty Court, said that she wanted to relate some opinions from experts regarding artificial turf. Dr. Sara Evans, Assistant Professor at the Children’s Environmental Health Center, Department of Environmental Health and Public Health, at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, wrote a report that said, in part, “We strongly discourage the installation of artificial turf fields due to the uncertainties surrounding the safety of these products. As pediatricians, epidemiologists, and laboratory scientists, people come to us to ask, as concerned parents and physicians, regarding the widescale use of artificial turf surfaces on school grounds and in park properties. [A] review of the risks and benefits of artificial playing surfaces … found significant gaps in evidence supporting the safety of artificial turf products.”

 

Regarding the results of this study, Ms. Infantino quoted: “Children and young adults are uniquely vulnerable to harmful exposures from artificial turf surfaces. This is due to a number of factors, including the unique physiology of behaviors, rapidly developing organ systems, and immature detoxification mechanisms. Vulnerability persists through the teen years as the reproductive and nervous systems continue to develop beyond the first two decades of life.  Children and young athletes breathe faster than adults at rest, putting them at greater risk for inhalation of chemicals that are in turf fields.” 

 

Ms. Infantino went on to talk about injuries incurred on turf fields, as well as the long-term effects of chronic diseases for children who play on turf fields. She said that existing studies do not comprehensively evaluate the concerns about health risks from exposure to artificial turf.  Extremely few studies have examined the composition and safety of alternative infields, including those purported to be “natural.” 

 

Ms. Infantino indicated that a United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) report supported the safety of alternative infields such as EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) or TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) and plant-based infields. She said that the scant information available regarding the composition and safety of these newer-generation infields makes it impossible to assess safety. In addition, the grass blades and other components utilized in synthetic turf fields have not been thoroughly studied for composition and safety. She said that until the findings can conclusively demonstrate the safety of artificial turf, a moratorium is recommended by the USEPA on the use of these materials where children play.

 

Dr. Salvatore Infantino, 6 Betty Court, stated that constructing a large field on property located next to an extremely busy highway would be very deleterious to the health of children. He stated that the particulate pollution from highway traffic contains heavy particles that are sprayed over a radius of 100 to 150 meters from the highway. He said that rubber from tires ends up in the lungs of children, and pieces of metal when brakes are applied by trucks end up being spewed into the air, to be inhaled by children. He stated that the physiology of children puts them at greater risk than adults. Dr. Infantino said that he has never heard an independent medical expert speak before the Village Council concerning the dangers to children who would be playing on the athletic field proposed at the Schedler property.

 

Kristina Milian, 530 West Saddle River Road, stated that the Schedler community supports the approved plan for the 75 yard by 50 yard multipurpose field, and they would like to see the project completed this year. She is concerned about revisions to the plans, specifically how the revisions concerning a larger field would affect traffic in the area. A larger field would allow for high school and adult league games, bringing buses to the area from other towns and games played after dark. All of this would cause traffic and parking problems along West Saddle River Road. In 2015, a very limited traffic assessment study was done on West Saddle River Road by the Ridgewood Police Department, instead of being performed by an expert third party. This report was included in the site development study dated October 7, 2015 and covered a narrow timeframe from 1:00 P.M. to 2:00 P.M. on Sundays. She stated that peak traffic hours are actually from 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. in that area. Ms. Milian stated that the traffic study done by the Ridgewood Police Department does not reflect the impact of expanded field options during rush hour times or later.

 

Ms. Milian stated that the aforementioned traffic study was performed during the months of July and August, during a time when many residents were on vacation. She said that, in order to properly assess the impact of a field expansion, a comprehensive analysis should be performed by an external expert, which covers peak traffic hours and considers various transportation modes that would impact the neighborhood, such as buses, shuttles, cars, and ride-sharing services. In 2021, the Borough of Paramus hired Stonefield Engineering & Design to conduct a traffic impact study before construction of a proposed gas station by BJ’s Wholesale Club. This study was done during multiple days in February, including during rush hour times, using modern software for data collection. Ms. Milian stated that West Saddle River Road is a crucial route for residents on the east side of Ridgewood, without any alternative options. When accidents occur on Route 17, cars and trucks are rerouted onto West Saddle River Road, causing significant delays to neighbors who are simply trying to exit their driveways and drive their children to school or run errands.

Ms. Milian said that it was time to prioritize the safety of the children who live near the Schedler property. She said that drivers exit Route 17 at 55 miles per hour onto West Saddle River Road, which has a 25 mile per hour speed limit. The increased speed poses an increased safety risk, since there will be increased traffic. In fact, in the 2015 traffic study, the Ridgewood Police stated that “everyone speeds.” There are no sidewalks along the Schedler property, and no speed bumps or crosswalks on West Saddle River Road. Ms. Milian urged the Village Council to “bring the park to life” as soon as possible with a 75 yard by 50 yard field. She also asked the Village Councilmembers to “stay true to their word” regarding their election promises for the Schedler property.

 

Frettra DeSilva, 521 West Saddle River Road, said that she was speaking this evening about two issues regarding the Schedler property: due process and transparency. She said that some effort was made before the original plans were developed to conduct certain studies. She is not clear whether the same process is being followed with the Schedler property as has been followed when other properties in Ridgewood have been developed, such as engaging third-party experts to analyze the issues surrounding the project. She said that while the community is satisfied with the original plans, any reopening of those plans should require an analysis by third parties, such as an updated traffic study. 

Regarding transparency, Ms. DeSilva suggested that an extra tab be put on the Village website which contains all of the information to date concerning the Schedler property, so that residents are aware of the progress being made and can observe the various plans being considered. She said that residents are in favor of the 75 yard by 50 yard field, but are not being told whether or not there will be safety netting or adequate parking. She said that such postings would be helpful to the ”average citizen.” Ms. DeSilva also urged more transparency regarding the budget hearings, especially so that residents can understand how much the improvements to the Schedler property will cost and how those costs will be paid.

 

Brian Greaney, 293 South Pleasant Avenue, said that he moved to Ridgewood in 1992 during his sophomore year of high school. He said that he and his wife bought their first home in Ridgewood in 2006. He has two sons: an eighth grader at Benjamin Franklin Middle School and a sophomore at Ridgewood High School.  His boys love sports, particularly baseball, and this led to Mr. Greaney volunteering as a coach and becoming a Trustee with the Ridgewood Baseball and Softball Association (RBSA) in 2014. He has also been a Travel Baseball Commissioner and currently heads up the Recreational Baseball Program. The most pressing concerns he hears from players and parents are the lack of fields and the condition of the fields in Ridgewood.

 

Mr. Greaney stated that baseball differs from sports such as soccer and lacrosse, where cones and goals can just be set up anywhere on a field and the teams can play. The majority of the baseball fields in the Village are shared and overused. He said that having another field can alleviate the stress felt by many athletes and families. He urged the construction of a baseball/softball field at Schedler Park. Mr. Greaney stated that it was not the intention of anyone to harm the residents who live in the Schedler neighborhood.  He said that agreements and concessions can be made so that everyone can “meet in the middle.”

 

Jeanne Theisen, 354 Fairfield Avenue, stated that the Village Council should ensure that they are using logic when discussing the development of the Schedler property. She said that a lot of studies do not have to be performed, at great expense, since everyone knows how narrow West Saddle River Road is and how fast cars exit onto that road from Route 17. She said that the plans for the Schedler property should take these things into consideration. Ms. Theisen said that ample parking must be allocated on the property, because there is not enough room for parking on the street and people should not be walking on the street from their cars, since there is no sidewalk on one side of West Saddle River Road. She said that an expert does not have to be retained in order to understand these safety concerns.

 

Ms. Theisen said that it was her understanding that some plans were submitted to SHPO by Ridgewood, which were rejected. She agreed with the previous speaker that a comprehensive history of the Schedler project should be posted on the Village website, so that residents know what is going on. She thinks that it is reasonable for the RBSA to want additional baseball fields constructed. Ms. Theisen feels that the Village Council should be careful and transparent in the way they communicate the progress of the Schedler project to the public.

 

Denise Lima, 319 East Glen Avenue, stated that she was speaking this evening about Resolution #18-236, which was approved in 2017 regarding the Schedler property. She is concerned about what residents “are not hearing.” She does not feel that more money needs to be spent on studies, but she is concerned about the older children who would be playing on a larger field and how often games would be scheduled. She is also concerned about the younger children who would play on the smaller proposed field. Ms. Lima also asked how much more money would be spent on the Schedler house. 

 

Ms. Lima said that no one has heard from Bergen County regarding the traffic and safety situation, or from the Parks, Recreation and Conservation Board regarding what they think about the development of the property. She said that the Schedler property was discussed by the Village Council on 15 separate occasions during 2022, yet at no time did Deputy Mayor Perron, Councilmember Reynolds or Mayor Vagianos talk about the size of the field.  Ms. Lima said that campaign promises to save money and to get the Schedler property finished quickly, have gone to the wayside. She hears no one talking about empathy for the neighbors or how the park will benefit them.

 

Laurie Weber, 235 South Irving Street, said that she wanted to speak this evening about how Village Manager Heather Mailander was pressured by Village Council leadership to resign from that position. She stated that the Village has an unenforceable ordinance “on its books,” the product of a court order sought by members of the “One Village, One Vote” (OVOV) group.  Ordinance #3048 establishes that both school and municipal elections take place in November. 

 

Ms. Weber stated that as these OVOV members continue to revel in their victory, an important piece continues to be overlooked by them, by the courts, and by the Village Council, which she said has led to political retribution against Ms. Mailander. Ms. Weber stated that no matter when school elections take place, the Village Council is not empowered to set the date of school elections by ordinance. Doing so conflicts with Title 19 statutes regarding the Board of Education and the public’s rights and powers regarding the timing of school elections.  Ordinance #3048 strips the Ridgewood Board of Education’s statutory authority over its own elections, transferring that power solely to the Village Council, which now includes an OVOV member and three of her supporters. Ms. Weber indicated that Ms. Mailander was not made aware of this.

 

Ms. Weber stated that Ordinance #3048 conflicts with a previous court order that specified that certain seats on the Board of Education must be up for election on specific months and years through 2022. As a result of this conflict, residents no longer have the lawfully required annual Board of Education elections. None of the OVOV “Champions of Elections” has taken issue with that, yet they continue to blame Ms. Mailander.

 

When Ms. Weber began talking about Councilmember Winograd, she was interrupted by Mayor Vagianos and cautioned not to mention any individual Councilmembers by name.

 

Ms. Weber continued by saying that a certain Councilmember’s assertions that Ms. Mailander tried to sabotage her election petition have led to her Council colleagues sabotaging Ms. Mailander’s livelihood. She said that the Village has failed Ms. Mailander by not properly notifying her or defending her, leading to a vindictive act of political retribution being “sold” to the public as an administrative decision. Ms. Weber stated that Ms. Mailander has been victimized by all sides of this “ugly mess.” She said that Ms. Mailander has tirelessly served the Village as an excellent and dedicated Village Manager. Ms. Weber said that Ms. Mailander is being punished for the misdeeds of others. She expressed hope that Ms. Mailander would stand up to this intimidation and reclaim her position.

 

Suzanne Ruane, 705 Kingsbridge Lane, stated that it has not been proven that the proposed larger field on the Schedler property will meet the needs of Village residents. The residents of this neighborhood would like to see a detailed assessment of field needs for the town teams. The 60-foot field is used by children up to fifth grade; the 90-foot field would be used by children in middle school and higher grades. Ms. Ruane said that children play more sports when they are younger, rather than when they are older. She spoke about when her daughter played soccer with the Maroons. She said that many older children drop out of sports when they enter middle school.

According to the Maroons website, there are more dedicated large fields in Ridgewood than small ones, although there are more younger children playing sports than older children. Ms. Ruane stated that the only fields designated for smaller children are at Citizens Park, Travell School and Orchard School. The larger fields for older children include those at the Glen School, Hawes School, Ridgewood High School, Somerville School and Brookside Field.  There are also five “combo” fields located at Veterans Field, Maple Field, Benjamin Franklin Middle School, Habernickel Park and Stevens Field.  Accordingly, Ms. Ruane indicated that there is an increased need in the Village for additional small fields. She said that the smaller field proposed to be constructed on the Schedler property in 2018 would be a better response to the demand for fields.  She mentioned that the Village Engineer worked closely with SHPO for over a year and was prepared at the end of 2022 to submit his plans for SHPO approval.

 

Regarding the Kingsbridge Lane Bridge, Ms. Ruane stated that a minor was involved in an accident while riding his bicycle on East Saddle River Road in Ho-Ho-Kus because the footbridge was closed.

 

Ellie Gruber, 229 South Irving Street, said that parents of younger children in Ridgewood were promised that a medium-sized soccer field on the Schedler property would be completed either by the end of summer or fall of 2023. However, due to the revisions requested by the Village Council, there will be further delays. Ms. Gruber stated that she feels an updated traffic study is warranted, which should be performed by an impartial third party and not by a Village employee. The study should not be done in the summer months (July and August) when school is out. She said that a larger field will draw bigger crowds and more cars, and will crowd the streets. The revisions also possibly include the installation of lights, less parking and no playground. Ms. Gruber stated that the Village Council should abide by the original plans that were previously approved and should stop listening to special interest groups.

 

Beth Gould Krueller, 719 Belmont Road, said that she was speaking this evening on behalf of the Green Ridgewood Committee. In response to the newly adopted Master Plan, they have formed new subcommittees to address key Master Plan recommendations, which Green Ridgewood members feel they can support via education and action. Additional committee members can assist in executing initiatives strategically aligned with the revised Master Plan in three areas:  Green Building and Sustainability, including electrification measures; Holistic Resource Management, including recycling initiatives; and Stormwater Management Strategies. 

 

Ms. Krueller requested that the committee size be increased from six to eight members, which will enable the group to function at a higher level and provide guidance to current and future Planning Boards and Village Councils, so that they may arrive at appropriate solutions to address challenges facing the Village.

 

When Mayor Vagianos stated that he was closing public comments, Councilmember Reynolds asked if more residents could speak, despite time running out, which has been done in the past when there were “hot topics” being discussed. Mayor Vagianos apologetically stated that he was going to close public comment at this time. He thanked everyone for coming to speak this evening, and stated that their comments, criticism and support were always welcomed.  He said that no one was wrong and that every opinion was correct, but that unfortunately the Village has very few resources to satisfy everyone. He stressed the importance of everyone working together to arrive at a satisfactory solution regarding the development of the Schedler property.

 

There were no further comments from the public.

 

Councilmember Winograd stated that she recused herself from any decisions involving Ms. Mailander and, therefore, there was no retaliation on her part against Ms. Mailander.

 

Councilmember Winograd stated that after she was elected to the Village Council, she discovered that the 2017 plan for the Schedler property, submitted to and approved by the Village Council, was never submitted to SHPO. Two subsequent plans with material changes were submitted to SHPO, and she has requested that all of these plans be posted on the Village website. Some of these material changes involved moving the entrance into the park from Terhune Road closer to Route 17 at Kingsbridge Lane and the construction of a structure for lightning. She emphasized that these proposed changes were made before she was elected to the Village Council.

 

Councilmember Winograd said that the 2017 plan, as well as all subsequent plans for the Schedler property, have been listed on the Village website. To date, there has been no approval of any plans by SHPO. She encouraged any residents with questions to contact her directly, since she also has questions as to when the plans were changed.  Regarding expenses for the Schedler property, the only amount needed for completing this project is the sum of $500,000.00, since the bulk of the project has already been bonded (nine bonds totaling $7 million). The sum of $5 million has already been paid, and there remains a balance of $1.9 million on the bonds. She has requested Mr. Rooney, CFO, to put this information on the website, which he will do after some things are straightened out. 

 

Regarding her campaign promise to complete the Schedler project as quickly as possible (supporting the plans developed in 2017); Councilmember Winograd said that she discovered information once she took office that she felt the public needed to know. She feels that it would be completely irresponsible of the Village Council to forward plans to SHPO for approval with a different entrance to the park, different parking, and other changes. Councilmember Winograd said that the neighbors on the east side of Ridgewood deserve a beautiful park rather than an eyesore. She feels that public input is crucial.

 

Mayor Vagianos reminded those residents who didn’t get a chance to speak during public comment earlier this evening that there is a public comment portion (with no overall time limit) later in the meeting as well.

 

3.         MANAGER’S REPORT

 

Ms. Mailander stated that “Council Chat” is held on the first Saturday of every month. The next “Council Chat” is scheduled on March 4, 2023 from 9:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. in the Village Hall Courtroom. Interested individuals must call to make a reservation at 201-670-5500, extension 2207. Walk-ins are welcome, but priority will be given to those who have made reservations. 

 

There is a bus trip to the Philadelphia Flower Show scheduled on Tuesday, March 7, 2023. Bus transportation is available from the Graydon Pool parking lot. The fee for bus transportation and admission to the show is $80.00 per person, and interested individuals may register online through Community Pass or in person at the Lester Stable. Checks should be made payable to “Ridgewood Parks and Recreation.” Questions may be answered by calling 201-670-5560.

 

A Summer Job Fair will be held on March 8, 2023 from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. in the Annie Zusy Youth Center, in the Community Center on the ground floor of Village Hall. The fair will be focused on young adults, ages 16 and older, for summer employment. A wide variety of employment opportunities will be presented. Young adults will be able to speak with supervisors to have their questions answered and learn what the specific requirements are for each employment opportunity.

 

A household hazardous waste collection event will be held on Saturday, March 11, 2023 by the Bergen County Utilities Authority at the foot of Empire Boulevard in Moonachie. They accept aerosol cans, antifreeze, batteries, blacktop sealers, all types of paint and varnish, and photography chemicals. The event will be held rain or shine. No commercial vehicles are permitted.

 

Various programs are being sponsored by the Ridgewood Health Department, West Bergen Mental Healthcare, and the Ridgewood Parks and Recreation Department. “How to Spot School-Based Anxiety: Tools, Tips and Techniques” is an in-person workshop scheduled for March 8, 2023 from 7:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. in the Senior Lounge at Village Hall. This workshop will include a discussion on signs, symptoms and causes, as well as tangible coping strategies and resources for parents to help support their children. Registration is required through Community Pass. Refreshments will be provided.

 

On March 30, 2023, from 10:30 A.M. to 12:00 noon, there will be an in-person workshop sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Association. More details will follow.

 

Staff from the Ridgewood Health Department have been visiting local childcare facilities to present activities to wash hands and not spread germs.

 

The Project Pride Committee, which plants flowers in the Central Business District (CBD) and in other areas of the Village, may possibly be rehabilitating the “kissing balls” for display during the Christmas season. The Green Team is working on sustainability measures and applying to the Sustainable Jersey program to maintain Ridgewood’s Sustainable Jersey certification. The Pride Day Committee, which plans events for the June celebration of the LGBTQ community, is seeking members. Interested residents should fill out the Citizen Volunteer Leadership Form, which can be found on the Village website by clicking on the tile labeled “Employment and Volunteer Opportunities,” and forward it, along with a cover letter and resume and an indication on which committee they would like to serve and why, to Joyce Magro in the Village Clerk’s Office at jmagro@ridgewoodnj.net, with the subject line “Volunteer for Board Committee.”

 

All contact information for residents who signed up for “Swift Reach” has been transferred to a new emergency notification system called “Everbridge. If any resident wishes to modify their contact information associated with their account, they should create a log-in by going to either ridgewoodnj.net or water.ridgewoodnj.net and click the red banner labeled “Village of Ridgewood and Ridgewood Water Emergency Alert Program.” If no changes are needed, then no action needs to be taken.

 

Upcoming Village Council meetings are broadcast live from the Village Hall Courtroom, on the Village website, on FIOS Channel 34 and YouTube.  Meetings can now be attended either in person or via Zoom or phone. The next Public Meeting is scheduled for March 8, 2023 at 8:00 P.M. The next Village Council Work Sessions will be held on March 1, March 22, and April 3, 2023 at 7:30 P.M. The April 3, 2023 meeting will be held on a Monday, due to Passover falling on Wednesday, April 5. Budget Meetings will be held on February 23, February 24 and March 6, 2023 at 5:00 P.M. in the Village Hall courtroom.  All meetings will have hybrid access.

 

4.         COUNCIL REPORTS

 

Councilmember Weitz said that he wanted to congratulate the Ridgewood Symphony Orchestra on their fabulous performance the other evening, which he attended with his family.

 

Councilmember Reynolds indicated that the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee (CSAC) met on February 16, 2023. The repaving and markings for the Franklin Avenue corridor have been completed. Bergen County representatives are still reviewing the Village’s “Corridor Concept Plan.” The project regarding pedestrian signals and conduit work have been completed at the Oak Street and Franklin Avenue intersection. Safe Routes to School construction should begin this year. The plans for most of the sidewalks to be constructed on Glen Avenue have been completed, but Councilmember Reynolds said that she was not sure whether or not the concept for the sidewalks from Maple Avenue up to the train overpass have been completed. An in-street pedestrian crossing sign has been installed at the intersection of Franklin Turnpike and Nagel Street. Officer Tarino reported that there are plans to purchase up to ten additional “Stop for Pedestrian in the Crosswalk” signs. Some of these signs will replace damaged signs, and some will be placed at new locations.

 

Councilmember Reynolds stated that the Village is evaluating additional street lighting and in-street pedestrian crossing signs at the intersection of East Glen Avenue and Bogert Avenue. At the CSAC meeting, there was a resident who reported a sight distance and visibility issue at Garber Square involving the “Keep Right” sign and the bollards at the median in the island. The resident said that driver visibility was impaired, due to the height of the sign. The resident suggested the use of a separate turn phase signal and pedestrian interval to reduce potential pedestrian and vehicular conflicts. This will be reviewed by the Engineering Department to determine the need for any measures to enhance safety in that location.

 

Councilmember Reynolds stated that the Engineering Department reported plans to resurface Chestnut, Oak and Walnut Streets, between East Ridgewood Avenue and Franklin Avenue, during the summer of 2023. CSAC members also reviewed with Officer Tarino the need to investigate certain intersections that allow right turns at red traffic light signals, since these locations are particularly challenging for pedestrians. The next CSAC meeting is scheduled for March 16, 2023 at 7:30 P.M. in the Garden Room. All are welcome to attend. 

 

Councilmember Reynolds apologized to anyone who showed up at the meeting this evening who were not afforded the opportunity to speak during the earlier public comments portion of the meeting. She stated that she did not feel that anyone wishing to make public comments should be turned away.

 

Councilmember Winograd said that she met with the Shade Tree Commission on February 14, 2023. They are in the process of establishing by-laws, and George Wolfson was selected as Chairman of the By-Law Subcommittee. She stated that a lot of money was budgeted in 2022 for trees, and that some of that money will be used for tree plantings in 2023. Therefore, less money will be budgeted in 2023 for the planting of trees. Councilmember Winograd stated that the emerald ash borer is still doing a lot of damage to ash trees. The tree planting in the Central Business District (CBD) will be completed this year. At the meeting, they talked about alternative revenue sources and increasing the public’s awareness about the benefits of trees.  They want to encourage residents to plant more trees on their properties.

 

Councilmember Winograd stated that on February 15, 2023, she and Councilmember Reynolds toured the Zabriskie-Schedler house. The sum of $2.3 million has already been spent on renovations to the house, and the house is still not finished. The interior of the house is a “work in progress.” Councilmember Winograd urged Village Council discussions regarding future uses for the house, which is currently closed to the public. Some grant monies have been received, which will be applied toward the house renovations, but not all of the grant money has been received to date. Additional grant applications are being considered for the parkland and field.

 

On February 16, 2023, Councilmember Winograd attended a meeting in Glen Rock with an organization called CRAN (Community Relations Action Network). CRAN is recommending that each municipality do a “Community Read” of the book entitled “How the Word is Passed” by Clint Smith. There are various discussion groups which are scheduled, which are being led by local clergy and individuals. This is being sponsored by the Ridgewood Library.

 

Councilmember Winograd stated that she attended several meetings on Friday, February 17, 2023. She is the liaison to the ACCESS Committee, and she stated that there are many special needs adults living in the Village who are seeking employment. There was a discussion about possible employment at a local bakery, which employs special needs individuals, and Councilmember Winograd said that she would soon be visiting that business to see if it is a viable solution. She said that any such employment would need to be within walking distance, and added that anyone with employment leads should contact her.

 

In addition, on February 17, 2023, Councilmember Winograd met with American Legion representatives to discuss a new initiative similar to “Hometown Heroes.” Any veteran born in Ridgewood, with military registration records corroborating that fact, would be eligible to have a banner, with their military picture on it, hung in their honor from the lampposts in the CBD. They are researching the costs of the banners. Councilmember Winograd indicated that her uncle and brother both served in the Navy. Joan Monton will be handling this project and will give a presentation before the Village Council shortly.

 

Councilmember Winograd stated that she attended another meeting on February 17, 2023 with local residents who are interested in supporting the Pride Day celebration. A Pride Day Committee will be formed. Any individual interested in serving on the committee should complete an application and submit it to Ms. Mailander.

 

On Saturday, February 18, 2023, Deputy Mayor Perron attended the grand opening of Chip City, which is next door to Jersey Mike’s. The Ridgewood High School band attended the festivities. Deputy Mayor Perron encouraged everyone to visit the store and enjoy their delicious cookies. She indicated that she attended a Communications Subcommittee meeting on February 21, 2023 and everyone enjoyed sampling cookies from Chip City.

 

Deputy Mayor Perron stated that she wanted to give an update on EAGER (Encouraging Alternative Green Energy for Ridgewood). A municipal energy aggregation plan was approved by the Village Council, and they hope to launch the plan this year. It is hoped that the bulk purchasing power for Village residents can be used to procure electric power with a higher renewable content and a lower price than what is currently offered by Public Service Electric & Gas (PSE&G). Gabel Associates, the energy aggregation consultant, has been closely monitoring the energy market for savings opportunities. Deputy Mayor Perron indicated that EAGER will “go out to market” as soon as conditions warrant. Residents will be notified when and if a contract is signed and the program becomes active.

 

Green Ridgewood also met and there were lengthy discussions regarding the Master Plan. Deputy Mayor Perron stated that the Green Ridgewood subcommittees are becoming very active. One subcommittee met with school representatives to discuss various environmental topics.  Another subcommittee met to discuss stormwater management. 

 

As previously mentioned by Ms. Mailander, the Green Team is responsible for submitting the Village’s application to Sustainable Jersey to obtain certification. The application lists everything that the Village has done to enhance environmental protection and conservation. Deputy Mayor Perron indicated that the Village currently has a Bronze Certification, and the application is being resubmitted in the hopes of obtaining a Silver Certification, as has been obtained in the past. Deputy Mayor Perron stated that there are a couple of vacancies on the Green Ridgewood Committee and she encouraged any interested residents to apply.

 

Deputy Mayor Perron stated that there were wonderful performances put on by Jamboree this year, with plenty of dancing and singing. Well over $200,000.00 was raised for scholarships for Ridgewood High School graduates.

 

The Open Space Committee met and discussed the Master Plan action items. They are planning a joint committee meeting with the Parks, Recreation and Conservation Board, hopefully in April. They are going to extend an invitation to the Historic Preservation Commission to attend the meeting as well.

 

Deputy Mayor Perron mentioned the Fashion Show, which took place on Friday, February 17, 2023 at the Heart of Motion dance studio. Great outfits from Femmebot were worn by the models, and there were many businesses in Ridgewood who supported this event, including Bazaar Star Beadery and Lovato Eyewear.

 

Mayor Vagianos indicated that he met with the Stigma-Free Committee this week. The Health Department recently applied for a $140,000.00 grant, which if received, would enable them to hire a consultant. The consultant would offer training on diversity, equity and inclusion to all Village employees. The grant monies would also be used for services and workshops. Mayor Vagianos stated that the committee wants everyone to know that, last month, President Biden declared the end of the Covid-19 health emergency. After May 11, 2023, the free Covid-19 testing kits will no longer be available, and they will need to be purchased after that time.

 

Mayor Vagianos stated that the Health Department runs a program called “Cards of Joy,” in which handwritten cards by the public are sent to vulnerable members of the community, such as shut-ins, disabled people and seniors. Cards will be collected until February 27, 2023. Anyone wishing to participate can drop off their cards in a card collection box located at the library or at Village Hall.

 

Mayor Vagianos said that another program of interest is called “How to Spot School-Based Anxiety: Tools, Tips and Techniques,” previously announced by Ms. Mailander. Another workshop run by the Health Department called “Community Impact of Covid-19 for Caregivers” deals with the adverse effects of Covid-19 on caregivers. Anyone interested in either workshop may call the Health Department at 201-670-5500, extension 2312, for further details.

 

A Job Center event, hosted by the Adult Services Department of the Ridgewood Library, will be held at the Ridgewood Library. Another library program called “Aging Unbound” will be held during May, which is Older American Month. Individuals interested in either program may check the library’s website or contact the library directly for more information.

 

Valley Health System is sponsoring several workshops. “Thrive” is a free membership program for women of all ages who want to take charge of their wellness, improve their health, and learn how to take time for themselves. An “Intuitive Eating” virtual workshop will also be held on March 6, 2023, which deals with “nurturing the body rather than restricting food to lose weight.”  There are workshops entitled “Kids and Social Media: What Parents Should Know and What They Can Do” and “Talking to Kids about Food, Energy and Their Health.” Interested individuals may call 201-291-6264 or visit Valley Health System’s website.

 

There will be a program regarding “Healthy Eating,” which will be held at the Bergen New Bridge Medical Center. Interested individuals may contact Corinne Scarpa at 201-961-9256.

 

5.         PRESENTATIONS

 

            A.        REPORT FROM AD HOC COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE

 

Ashley Chauvin introduced herself and stated that she was speaking on behalf of the Ad Hoc Communications Committee, along with Tim Graham. Ms. Chauvin indicated that the committee is comprised of many Village residents, along with Councilmember Winograd. Ms. Chauvin has resided in Ridgewood for approximately ten years, sits on the Parks, Recreation and Conservation Board, and works in marketing at Mars Wrigley. Ms. Chauvin stated that the goal of the Ad Hoc Communications Committee is to provide transparent, accessible and clear communication to Ridgewood residents. In this way, people can stay informed and be engaged in local government.

 

Ms. Chauvin stated that the way people consume information and media has changed drastically over the past few years, especially during the Covid pandemic and thereafter. A large majority of people now obtain news and information on their digital devices through websites and social media platforms, including TikTok, rather than through television or print media. Ms. Chauvin stated that people’s expectations are very high with regard to their digital experiences, especially regarding personalized and accessible information, fast download times, ease of use and intuitiveness, and content aesthetics. She said that people want to view content that is attractive and engaging, and they require “instant gratification.”

 

Ms. Chauvin said that the committee members compared the Village website to the websites of other municipalities, such as Franklin Lakes and Montclair, in terms of ease of use, friendliness/welcome, and appeal/attractiveness. Her presentation showed that the Franklin Lakes and Montclair websites were superior in all three areas when compared to Ridgewood’s website. Regarding ease of use, she stated that they looked at download time, number of lists, login ability (for customization), and menu (intuitive descriptions). Regarding the friendliness/ welcome aspect, Ms. Chauvin said that they looked at domain names (such as .net or .org), whether there was an inviting description under the website heading (such as “Discover Franklin Lakes”), and whether there was the ability to synchronize with social media. Regarding appeal/ attractiveness, Ms. Chauvin stated that they examined photos on the different websites to assess size, attractiveness, and whether the images showed people or just certain town landmarks.

 

Ms. Chauvin stated that an antiquated communication system can impact negatively on a town’s citizenry. People get frustrated with slow loading times, when they are not able to find content quickly. This can lead to a lack of information or misinformation, which can impact public safety initiatives, and can also raise transparency concerns. She cited the Schedler property as an example.

 

Ms. Chauvin stated that it was important that the Village website, and other communication methods, meet the needs of residents of all ages. She stated that the website should be given priority, since this is the main method by which citizens receive information. The technology, formatting and design of the website need a makeover; there is unevenness in messaging; and the website fails to quickly convey time-sensitive communications. Ms. Chauvin also mentioned that the Village’s social media presence, including Facebook, needs revamping.

 

Ms. Chauvin stated that the committee is seeking authorization to open a formal interview or Request for Proposal (RFP) process, so that a consultant could be hired to evaluate the website for ease of use and content and offer suggestions for improvement. 

 

Mr. Graham indicated that he has been involved in digital transformation for over 30 years, first working as a news reporter and editor, and then becoming involved in building some of the first news websites, when newspapers started to fade out and people started accessing news on digital devices. Mr. Graham said that there are many studies proving that a better website results in a happier, more informed community. He mentioned that the revamping of the Village website should begin now, since it usually takes several years before a nearly complete revamping is achieved and, even after that time, the updating process continues indefinitely due to constant changes in technology and applications. A content development strategy needs to be determined.

 

Ms. Chauvin stated that digital transformation is being performed by both corporations and municipalities. She stated that content development requires a different skillset than what would be required for website development. Her presentation showed a cost of approximately $30,000.00 for year one of the website transformation.

 

Councilmember Reynolds asked whether an outside vendor would be hired to perform the website changes or whether this work would be performed by a member of the Ad Hoc Communications Committee. Ms. Chauvin said that they would like to engage in an RFP process to find an outside vendor to do the work. Mr. Graham added that they have researched different consultancies that work specifically with municipalities, with scaled fees based upon population.  Councilmember Reynolds remarked that they have been looking into updating the Village website for years, and she recalled estimates between $5,000.00 and $10,000.00 to have this work performed, but nowhere near $30,000.00. She asked how much the additional costs would be for website maintenance and content development. Ms. Chauvin replied that the costs for content development still need to be determined.

 

Councilmember Winograd thanked the committee members, as well as Dylan Hansen, IT Director, and Ms. Mailander for their efforts toward improving communication during Village Council meetings. She mentioned that communication difficulties became increasingly apparent during last year’s Village Council election process, where people were scrambling to find accurate information on various topics. The Ad Hoc Communications Committee has been meeting since the fall of last year. Councilmember Winograd mentioned that an Instagram account was started for the Village, so that a different demographic audience could be engaged.  She stated that the Village must start doing business differently. While acknowledging that there may not be money in the budget this year to perform website upgrades, Councilmember Winograd stressed the importance of getting this accomplished.

 

Mayor Vagianos thanked the members of the Ad Hoc Communications Committee for contributing their time and expertise towards the improvement of communications in the Village. He also thanked Councilmember Winograd for bringing this issue to the forefront. He said that the Village sponsors many wonderful activities and programs but is deficient in “getting the word out.” He said that investing in this initiative is very worthwhile, since it would enhance transparency and keep residents informed. Ms. Mailander also thanked the committee members and Councilmember Winograd. She mentioned that the request from the Ad Hoc Communications Committee will be placed on the agenda for discussion during the budget hearings.

 

            B.        SCHEDLER PROPERTY UPDATE

 

Christopher Rutishauser, Village Engineer, gave a presentation on the Schedler property.  He distributed some park development plan concepts, depicting various layouts for a multipurpose field, for soccer, lacrosse and baseball. He explained that Concept 1C showed a full-sized soccer/lacrosse field with a “runout” area on the property, which would allow for a parking lot to be constructed against the berm, a restroom facility with weather shelter, and a playground. The brown shaded area to the north would be an undisturbed woodland area.

 

Mayor Vagianos asked what the difference was between the two drawings, other than the existing trees. Mr. Rutishauser replied there are some minor differences. One shows the parking lot behind the house as was originally configured, and the other shows the parking lot flipped 180° as requested by Mayor Vagianos. The field could not be moved much closer to the house, since there are two shagbark hickory trees by the paver patio, which need to be preserved.

 

Councilmember Reynolds asked whether the original entrance was at Kingsbridge Lane, then later changed to Terhune, but subsequently moved back to Kingsbridge Lane. Mr. Rutishauser said that having an entrance to the north of the house would negate a lot of the square footage that could be used for recreational fields. Councilmember Reynolds asked whether the entrance location was changed as a result of a conversation with the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). Mr. Rutishauser said that the entrance was not moved as a result of any conversation with SHPO, although he stated that SHPO does not want the entrance driveway to be situated too close to the Zabriskie-Schedler house. He determined that the best location for the entrance would be as shown on the drawing, so that more acreage could be used for the playing field.

 

Councilmember Reynolds stated that she visited the Schedler property today with Jovan Mehandzic, Assistant Engineer, and observed the stakes delineating where the larger field and medium-sized field would be located. She stated that the large field comes frighteningly close to the historic house. Mr. Rutishauser agreed that the runout area comes very close to the proposed treed hedge that acts as a screen between the recreational field and the house. Councilmember Reynolds said that trying to fit a large field on this property was like trying to fit a size 12 person into a size 2 bathing suit. She does not feel that a larger field belongs on this property. Mr. Rutishauser stated that, in order to accommodate a larger field, part of the parking area will have to be placed at the toe of the berm. This would result in the walking path being shifted over closer to the berm. If this is done, a barrier would be constructed close to the berm, similar to what was done at the playground by Village Hall. 

 

Councilmember Reynolds said that this concept would not give the residents on West Saddle River Road any protection from the noise emanating from Route 17 traffic. Upon questioning, Mr. Rutishauser stated that there are currently no plans for the triangular-shaped piece of land to the left of the driveway entrance. When Mr. Rutishauser meets with SHPO representatives, he will ask whether or not this plot of land can be used as a community garden. Councilmember Reynolds recalled that the neighbors residing near the Schedler property were promised that the land would not be clearcut. She stated that changing the plans at this point was not fair to the residents. She reiterated her opinion that she did not feel a large field would fit on this property.  She feels that an independent medical expert should be retained to study the effects of noise, air and particulate pollution on the neighborhood if a large quantity of trees are removed.

 

Deputy Mayor Perron asked where the bleachers would be located for spectators watching games. She stated that chairs and bleachers cannot be placed on top of artificial turf. Mr. Rutishauser said that during his conversations with SHPO representatives, it was determined that SHPO does not like artificial turf. If artificial turf is requested, then the plans would automatically be sent to the Historic Sites Council for a hearing. Regarding bleachers, Mr. Rutishauser is not proposing the installation of any permanent bleachers on the property. He said that the smaller portable bleachers could be used.

 

Deputy Mayor Perron asked if the split-rail fence would have to be moved in order to accommodate the larger field. Mr. Rutishauser replied that the post-and-rail fence would only need to be moved at the toe of the berm, not the fence running along West Saddle River Road.  Deputy Mayor Perron also asked if some of the arborvitae that were just planted would have to be moved in order to accommodate the larger field. Mr. Rutishauser replied that some would probably have to be transplanted elsewhere. In fact, he stated that some of the arborvitae trees are not thriving where they are currently planted and may need to be moved anyway. Deputy Mayor Perron agreed that the trees are looking “unhappy.” 

 

Deputy Mayor Perron stated that she would be posting on the Village website the article from Mt. Sinai Medical School, previously mentioned by Patty Infantino, regarding the harmful effects of artificial turf. She pointed out that the City of Boston has banned turf installation, with the Mayor of Boston issuing a statement saying that the city prefers grass-playing surfaces wherever possible and that they would not be installing playing fields with PFAS chemicals. 

 

Deputy Mayor Perron mentioned that many crumb rubber manufacturers received complaints about the use of PFAS, so many of these manufacturers are moving toward cork and coconut infill, similar to the material used in Glen Rock at one of their newly turfed fields. Deputy Mayor Perron has seen this field and stated that it is very beautiful. The field is not just used for sports, but is used by people just enjoying the air and sunshine. There is high netting to protect the houses across the street from the field. She asked Mr. Rutishauser where netting would be installed on the Schedler property. Mr. Rutishauser replied that he still has to discuss the subject of the installation of netting and the height of the netting with SHPO. 

 

Deputy Mayor Perron stated that the real issue is the PFAS contained within artificial turf. The “grass” part of it is made with a polymer (chemical mixture) that has PFAS as an additive, so that it will go through the extrusion machine without getting clogged. She added that it is difficult to test for PFAS contamination, since it comes in several forms (gas, solid or liquid).  As turf ages, dust accumulates and the infill degrades, resulting in particles becoming airborne. She said that PFAS does not just create problems in water, but it can also be inhaled. When children are playing sports on a turf field, close to the ground, they are exposed to this particulate pollution. She said that there is very little research concerning the effects of PFAS from alternative infills, and it is this lack of research, which has led Mt. Sinai School of Medicine to ask for a moratorium on the installation of artificial turf. Children breathe differently than adults, with a faster respiration rate, and they do not sweat as much as adults do, which means that children cannot regulate the temperature of their bodies as well as adults. Temperatures are much hotter on artificial turf than on grass. Deputy Mayor Perron said that extreme heat can cause children to suffer from dehydration, heat stroke and burns. She added that there are currently no studies showing whether or not PFAS can enter one’s body through an open wound or abrasion, citing the example of a child sliding on artificial turf and sustaining such an injury.

 

In addition, Deputy Mayor Perron reported that PFAS accumulates in a person’s body over time and, therefore, children exposed to this forever chemical at a young age will start accumulating it in their bodies, which may cause problems in the future. She said that people have been drinking water containing PFAS since the 1940s and it is unknown whether or not this has caused ailments in humans. There are no studies that conclusively show that PFAS causes diseases; however, testing performed on laboratory animals has shown a link between the ingestion of PFAS and thyroid problems, male infertility, hormone disruption and cardiovascular problems.  Deputy Mayor Perron indicated that PFAS is contained in carpeting, furniture, and stain-resistant products. 

 

Deputy Mayor Perron indicated that she is worried about the use of artificial turf on the Schedler property. She added that the National Institute of Health Sciences cautioned consumers to read the labels on cosmetics and clothing. Gore-Tex just announced that they would no longer have certain levels of “known” environmental additives in their clothing. Deputy Mayor Perron said that consumers need to become more aware of goods that contain PFAS, such as pizza boxes and food wrappings. She stated that when it rains, the PFAS contained in artificial turf seeps into the soil and eventually leaches into the ground water.

 

Councilmember Winograd spoke about turf burn and abrasions sustained by players on turf fields, and also about the concern of overheating. She mentioned that the Village did a heat study in 2009 regarding artificial turf. Councilmember Winograd then thanked the Engineering Department staff for their assistance regarding the Schedler property, particularly in creating various conceptual plans for the Village Council to review. She stated that the berm on the property takes up almost an entire acre of the 7.8 acre parcel of land.

 

Councilmember Winograd said that she and many residents in Ridgewood felt that the purchase of the Schedler property in 2009 was a good move. It was felt that the property should be developed as a park, rather than as a commercial zone. She stated that grant monies from Bergen County in the amount of $1.6 million were used towards development of the property and, therefore, the Schedler property is a public park for everyone to enjoy. Councilmember Winograd said that there are certain things on which the Village Councilmembers can agree: 1) the land should be developed as a park; 2) the house should be renovated; 3) there should be future uses determined for the house, which will require ample parking; 4) there should be a walking path for passive recreation; and 5) there should be a playground, which is critical to satisfy a diversion issue. 

 

Regarding the field, Councilmember Winograd stated that the original 2017 plans called for a turfed playing field. She recommends that a turf field be constructed on the Schedler property.  Deputy Mayor Perron interjected by stating that the Ad Hoc Committee preliminarily recommended the turf field. Councilmember Winograd stated that, in any event, the 2017 plans were approved by a 5-0 vote by the prior Village Council. Regarding the installation of permanent lights on the property, Councilmember Winograd stated that this is not necessarily a “make or break” item for her, but she recommended that conduits be installed, so that permanent lights may be installed in the future if desired. She stated that one of the goals in developing the Schedler Park is to integrate the Glen School neighborhood and the rest of the east side into the Village. She suggested that perhaps an informal poll could be taken to see how each Councilmember feels about each of the proposed elements in the park.

 

Councilmember Weitz stated that he is listening intently to all sides of this discussion and will withhold his opinions regarding the Schedler Park development until he has heard everything that needs to be said. He thanked the Engineering Department for their efforts in developing various conceptual plans per the wishes of the Village Council. He stated that he was confident an amicable resolution can be arrived at which will benefit the majority of Village residents.

 

Councilmember Reynolds urged all Councilmembers to visit the Schedler property with a staff member from the Engineering Department to view the proposed layout of the field. The blue stakes delineate where the larger field would be, and the red stakes delineate where the smaller field would be. She reiterated how shocked she was to see how close the larger field would be to the house, to Route 17, and to the property line on West Saddle River Road. She said that a smaller field would allow room for a playground and preservation of enough trees to act as a buffer for the neighboring residents. Councilmember Reynolds stated that she was worried about young children breathing in particulate matter emanating from Route 17 traffic, when they are “huffing and puffing” while playing sports, but she was not as concerned for children using the playground. She stated that she would never advocate for turf, because she has read a lot about the dangers of artificial turf.

 

Councilmember Winograd reminded everyone that the Bergen County grant application was due by April 15, 2023. If one element is agreed upon by all Councilmembers, such as the walking path, then application could be made for grant monies to construct the walking path. Regarding the berm, she stated that the trees are not thriving very well and she feels that there is room for improvement on the berm.

 

Councilmember Reynolds reiterated her opinion that she feels a medical expert should speak before the Village Council about the dangers of particulate pollution. Councilmember Winograd questioned why this matter had not been raised previously. Councilmember Reynolds said that she was not sure why, but she was concerned that a cluster of diseases in this area could possibly arise in the future because no one took the time to investigate the dangers of particulate inhalation. Councilmember Reynolds asked if 60% of the park needed to be for passive recreation and 40% for active recreation, and Councilmember Winograd replied that she could not recall any percentage criteria. She did indicate that the Village has more passive recreation parks than active recreation or multiuse parks. She also stated that most people supported development of the Schedler property because it would improve the recreational facilities in the Village.

 

Deputy Mayor Perron asked Mr. Rutishauser how wide the walking path would be, and Mr. Rutishauser replied that it would be eight feet wide to allow for ease of snow plowing. Deputy Mayor Perron stated that eight feet was a good width because it would enable people to walk side by side.

 

Mayor Vagianos indicated that the Village Councilmembers have a lot of information to digest and he would like to place this matter on the March 1, 2023 Village Council meeting agenda.  He profusely thanked Mr. Rutishauser and Mr. Mehandzic of the Engineering Department, for quickly producing new plans, which were only requested at 5:00 P.M. yesterday.

 

6.         DISCUSSION

 

A.        RIDGEWOOD WATER

 

1.         AWARD CONTRACT – GATE REPAIRS AT GLEN AVENUE FACILITY

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract to perform slide gate repairs at the Glen Avenue facility, which is in disrepair and needs replacement in order to maintain security at the site. Three quotes were obtained. It was recommended that the contract be award to the lowest responsible bidder, National Fence Systems, Inc., of Avenel, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $24,740.00. Funding is in the Water Capital Budget.

 

2.         AWARD STATE CONTRACT – WATER MAIN REPAIRS MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract, under the Bergen County Cooperative Purchasing System, for the purchase of materials and supplies from Braen Stone Industries for water main repairs, in an amount not to exceed $100,000.00. Funding is accounted for in the Water Utility Operating Budget.

 

3.         AWARD PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CONTRACT – RATE EXPERT FOR 2023 BUDGET AND WATER RATES

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the awarding of a professional services contract to engage an expert to assist Ridgewood Water in developing an equitable surcharge for PFAS treatment, balanced with the budget, and any water volume rate changes for 2023. It is recommended that the contract be awarded to Howard J. Woods, Jr. & Associates, LLC, in an amount not to exceed $7,320.00. This firm is familiar with Ridgewood Water’s budget needs, has prior experience in the water rate setting environment, and has successfully completed project work for Ridgewood Water in the past. Funding is available in the Water Utility Operating Budget.

 

            B.        POLICY

 

1.         AMEND ORDINANCES – GREEN RIDGEWOOD AND GREEN TEAM

 

Ms. Mailander stated that this item pertains to modifications to the Green Ridgewood and Green Team ordinances to clear up some confusing points. She said that there are three members of Green Ridgewood who do not need to serve on the Green Team, since this is not required by Sustainable Jersey and it is burdensome for those three members. In addition, it is recommended that a student intern be added to Green Ridgewood, with the term “liaison” to be changed to  “intern.”  The ordinance should clarify who the voting members are, and the number of members on Green Ridgewood should be increased by two, since there is a lot of work that needs to be done by this group.

 

Deputy Mayor Perron stated that the Green Ridgewood mission is extremely broad, since there are many things in the environment, which need to be addressed. She agrees that two more committee members are necessary.

2.         AMEND LAND USE ORDINANCE – EXTEND TIME FOR BUILDING PERMITS, FRONT PORCH DEPTH, SETBACK CALCULATIONS, DRIVEWAY WIDTH, AND CIRCULAR DRIVEWAYS

 

Ms. Mailander said that this item pertains to the Zoning Board of Adjustment (ZBA) Annual Report for 2021 and the provisions they would like to have changed. Deputy Mayor Perron stated that, every year, an Annual Report is submitted by the ZBA, which advises the Planning Board and Village Council how zoning procedures and ordinances can be improved. There were five requests (constructive suggestions) contained in the 2021 Annual Report. The 2022 Annual Report has not yet been completed.

 

John Barre, Village Planner, said that discussions on some of the suggestions contained in the 2021 Annual Report were discussed during the development of the Master Plan, as well as during discussions with members of the Planning Board. There are some issues, which need to be clarified in the Zoning Ordinance, so that the zoning process can be streamlined for both the Zoning Board members and applicants.

 

Mr. Barre stated that the first point pertains to how the Zoning Ordinance deals with driveways.  The board has had many applications requesting different driveway designs, such as circular driveways, and expanded driveway widths for garages with more than one bay. Mr. Barre indicated that the ordinance lacks clarity in terms of permitted driveway widths. He recommended a proposed ordinance amendment, which would clearly define permitted widths.

 

In addition, Mr. Barre indicated that the board has seen variance applications for front porches that encroach minimally upon front yard setbacks. He stated that many homes in Ridgewood have front porches, which are aesthetically pleasing and contribute to the streetscape. Mr. Barre recommended an ordinance amendment, which would clarify the provisions regarding front porch depths and minimum/maximum setback limits, to avoid the necessity of application to the Zoning Board for a variance. This would also allow new homes to be constructed in conformity with the character of the existing neighborhood. Mr. Barre explained that some homes in the Village are set further back from the street than others.

 

Mr. Barre stated that the existing Zoning Ordinance has a duration for variance approvals of one year. Applicants must obtain building permits within one year after the ZBA has granted approval. This time period was extended to two years during the Covid pandemic, considering supply chain issues, contractor availability, and rising costs of building supplies. The ZBA is requesting that the two-year time period be made permanent. This would avoid the necessity of applicants having to appear again before the board to request an extension.

 

Mr. Barre indicated that issues have also arisen concerning basement and attic spaces, particularly on properties with slopes, where a “walk-out” basement may lead to questions as to how many stories a building is. In addition, Mr. Barre stated that the Planning Board has requested modifications to the Village’s fee schedule, which would allow for an increase in the amount of escrow monies required to ensure that a project is satisfactorily completed.  

 

Mr. Barre stated that some records have been lost over the years due to natural disasters, such as flooding. There is a request that as-built surveys be submitted at the conclusion of projects. This is now required in the Zoning Ordinance for properties located in a flood plain, but not required for all projects. Requiring as-built surveys would ensure that buildings have been constructed pursuant to ZBA approval, and they would become part of the permanent record, for use as a starting point in future projects. 

 

When questioned by Deputy Mayor Perron, Mr. Barre stated that the as-built survey would become a requirement in order for an applicant to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy. Regarding circular driveways, Mr. Barre explained that some issues have arisen concerning width measurements and the fact that circular driveways sometimes occupy a large portion of a front yard on smaller lots. He stated that the current Zoning Ordinance does not explicitly prohibit or permit circular driveways, and clarity is needed in this regard. Deputy Mayor Perron remarked that, in some situations, circular driveways can enhance safety since drivers would not have to back out of a driveway onto a busy road. Mr. Barre replied that there are both advantages and disadvantages regarding circular driveways, and the board would like clearer language in the ordinance, stating conditions under which circular driveways would be permitted.

 

Mr. Barre stated that they are seeking permission from the Village Council to prepare a draft ordinance amendment for review by the Planning Board and the Village Council, after which time it would be determined whether or not to adopt the amendment to the Zoning Ordinance.  Councilmember Winograd thanked Mr. Barre and stated that she felt these changes were important to consider, so that streetscapes could be preserved and enhanced.

 

Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney, said that he agreed with the establishment of a two-year time period within which a building permit must be obtained after the ZBA has granted approval. Mr. Rogers said that the matter of front porches is not only an aesthetic issue, but also a safety issue. He stated that a covered area in front of a house provides for a much safer transition for people coming from the outside to the inside of a house, and allows for safer delivery of packages. Mr. Rogers agreed with flexible front yard setback limits, so that the character of a neighborhood can be preserved and remain uniform in nature. It would also prevent residents from having to make application before the board for a variance for a minor setback. 

 

Regarding the as-built surveys, Mr. Rogers asked Mr. Barre if this would be required for all applications or just certain applications that entail major construction. Mr. Barre said that the subject of as-built surveys still needs to be discussed further. He mentioned that there are older property surveys, which do not accurately depict how a property is currently developed. Mr. Barre agreed that there may be situations where an as-built survey would not be necessary.  There was further discussion between Mr. Rogers and Mr. Barre concerning when as-built surveys would be required, particularly if prior surveys do not exist due to damage caused by flooding or other natural disasters.  Mr. Rogers stated that having to submit an as-built survey for a minor variance would just create an added expense for homeowners. Mr. Barre indicated that discussions on this issue will take place and recommendations for amendments to the Zoning Ordinance will be presented to the Village Council.

 

Ms. Mailander asked Mr. Barre what is needed from the Village Council in order for him to proceed with drafting the proposed amendments to the ordinance. Mr. Barre replied that he did not believe anything formal was required. The Village Council would just need to give the Planning Board the “go ahead” to proceed along those lines. Mr. Rogers indicated that he would send a letter to the Planning Board authorizing them to proceed with the development of an ordinance amendment. Mayor Vagianos thanked Mr. Barre, Deputy Mayor Perron, and Greg Brown, Chairman of the Zoning Board, for their efforts in clarifying the Zoning Ordinance for the benefit of Village residents.

 

3.         AUTHORIZE ENCROACHMENT AGREEMENT – 22 MAYNARD COURT

 

Ms. Mailander stated that this item pertains to the authorization of an encroachment agreement regarding property located at 22 Maynard Court, which is a through lot. The property owners are seeking to memorialize existing encroachments their property has into the right-of-way of South Murray Avenue. This include a fence around a swimming pool, an area of pavers, and a small play area, which have existed in this location since the mid-1990s. This resolution will authorize Mayor Vagianos and Ms. Mailander to execute the Encroachment Agreement.

 

4.         ESTABLISH WAIVABLE CURFEW FOR VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETINGS

 

Mayor Vagianos stated that he was seeking to establish a policy regarding a waivable 11:00 P.M. curfew, which the Planning Board currently has. He stated that many Village Councilmembers start their day very early in the morning and must attend Village Council meetings late into the night. Long meetings occur when there are “hot button issues,” in addition to managing and discussing day-to-day municipal matters. Mayor Vagianos stated that many decisions made late at night are influenced by the fact that many Councilmembers are tired and just want to go home.  He asked Deputy Mayor Perron to explain the waivable curfew act observed by the Planning Board.

 

Deputy Mayor Perron stated that if it appears that public comment is going to extend a meeting past 11:00 P.M., then a vote is taken to see if the members want to waive the 11:00 P.M. curfew or stop the meeting at that point. Councilmember Reynolds stated that Village Council meetings differ from Planning Board meetings, since the Planning Board does not have opening or closing public comments. She explained that if Planning Board members are in the middle of hearing an application and it is already 10:30 P.M., and they know that it will take another two hours to finish hearing the application, then the members will vote on whether or not to waive the curfew and have the applicant continue. If they finish one application at 10:15 P.M. and realize that the next application will take more than 45 minutes to discuss, then they have the opportunity to table that application until the next meeting. Councilmember Reynolds said that she did not understand how a Village Council meeting could possibly end at 11:00 P.M. if there were remaining agenda items that had not yet been discussed.

 

Mayor Vagianos said that he was willing to give the curfew a trial run. Councilmember Weitz said that he was in favor of the curfew, since not only do the Councilmembers need to get up early in the morning for work or children, but citizens must do so as well.  He said that the length of meetings must be kept to a reasonable amount of time, so that citizens do not have to stay up until midnight to be a part of democracy. In addition, he stated that it was not fair to Village employees attending Village Council meetings, when these meetings run so late.

 

Councilmember Weitz said that an allotted amount of time should be assigned for each topic to be discussed, similar to what is done in the private sector. He stated that, in this way, a group making a presentation, such as the Communications Committee, would know how much time they have to make their presentation. He suggested that time limits should also be placed on how long a Village Councilmember can speak. He stated that he was in favor of robust public comments, but he said that maybe public comments should only be heard between 7:00 P.M. and 8:00 P.M. This would allow for three hours of public comments per month, in addition to the “Council Chat” meetings. The curfew can always be waived if there are pressing issues, which need to be discussed.

 

Deputy Mayor Perron remarked that after a regular Village Council meeting, the Councilmembers have to sometimes then attend a Closed Session, which entails even more time during which very important matters are discussed, including litigation and personnel matters. It is imperative that Councilmembers are alert and paying attention, something which is difficult to do after having served for three hours or longer during a regular Village Council meeting.

 

Councilmember Reynolds suggested that perhaps Closed Sessions could be held before a regularly scheduled Village Council meeting. She stated that she was adamantly opposed to removing public comments at the end of meetings and restricting public comments to an hour at the beginning of the meeting. She said that people often want to speak at the end of a meeting about what transpired during the meeting. Councilmember Reynolds stated that it would be a travesty to take away ending public comments. She recalled a saying by Roger Wiegand, which said that residents should always have “the last say.”

 

Councilmember Weitz stated that the time for opening public comments would be expanded to allow more residents to speak. He questioned how many residents would remain at a meeting until 12:30 P.M. in order to “have the last say.” In reply, Councilmember Reynolds pointed to all of the people remaining in the audience waiting to make comments tonight, despite the fact that it was very late in the evening. Councilmember Weitz said that he still felt this was not fair to other citizens who have to wake up early the following morning. He said that a set amount of time should be allocated for public comments and discussion items. Councilmember Reynolds remarked that doing so would diminish openness and the ability of people to speak their minds. She reiterated that there are many people who want to speak at the end of a meeting, concerning topics discussed during the meeting.

 

Councilmember Winograd said that she was a big fan of public comment. She felt that the more the Village Councilmembers could engage with the public, the better. She likes the current meeting structure and does not feel that access to public government should be restricted.  Therefore, she would not recommend changing the meeting structure. She stated that she liked Councilmember Reynolds’ suggestion of conducting Closed Sessions before a Village Council meeting begins. She questioned why Public Meetings start at 8:00 P.M. and Work Sessions begin at 7:30 P.M.  She would like to see all meetings begin at 7:30 P.M.

 

Deputy Mayor Perron stated that it was unfortunate that the Open Public Meetings Act does not offer much guidance regarding the structure of a meeting. Public comments are allowed so that there can be “openness” at meetings.

 

Mayor Vagianos stated that he was also a big fan of public comment. He said that he thought certain improvements could be made to the meeting structure, and he thanked his Council colleagues for their feedback. He spoke about the improvements made recently to public comments, including the acoustics, repositioning of the podium, and the installation of the clock and screens. When questioned by Mayor Vagianos, all Councilmembers were agreeable to holding Closed Sessions before Village Council meetings, rather than afterwards. Ms. Mailander pointed out that sometimes Closed Sessions last a long time and, in that case, the start of the Village Council meeting would be delayed. However, if there was a lengthy Closed Session, it could be suspended temporarily, and then continued at the end of the regular Village Council meeting.

 

Regarding the commencement of all meetings at 7:30 P.M., Ms. Mailander explained that the 8:00 P.M. start time allows working residents the necessary time they need to get home and eat before attending a meeting. The normal pre-meeting would have to be moved to 7:00 P.M. if the Village Council meetings were to start at 7:30 P.M. However, the start time could be changed if that is what the Village Councilmembers preferred to do.

 

Mayor Vagianos stated that the “prime time audience” would be lost with later start times for meetings. He suggested that Closed Sessions be held before regular Village Council meetings and that Public Meetings begin at 7:30 P.M. In addition, he would like to institute a pilot program for three months to see how the 11:00 P.M. waivable curfew worked out. The Village Councilmembers would vote whether or not to extend a meeting past 11:00 P.M. Mayor Vagianos also recommended that public comments take place at the end of meetings only, although he felt that more people would be engaged if public comments were held, for a longer period of time, at the beginning of meetings.

 

Councilmember Weitz suggested that a set period of time be allotted for presentations before the Village Council. Ms. Mailander remarked that there is already a maximum time limit of ten minutes for presentations. Councilmember Weitz felt that the time limits should be indicated on each meeting agenda, and Ms. Mailander agreed. However, she stated that there is always a discussion after each presentation, with questions and answers, which adds more time to presentations.

 

Mayor Vagianos felt that Councilmember Weitz’s suggestion was a good one, and he asked that time limits be specified on any agenda items going forward. Ms. Mailander stated that she would place all items on which action needs to be taken at the beginning of each agenda, with other less-urgent items at the end of each agenda. If time is starting to run out, the Councilmembers could decide whether to extend the meeting past 11:00 P.M. or to put any items not reached on the next meeting agenda.

 

Mayor Vagianos asked Ms. Mailander whether an ordinance would need to be adopted to officially enact the suggested changes. Ms. Mailander replied that the Public Meeting Notice would have to be readopted and published in the newspaper. These changes could not be enacted until after March 8, 2023, at the earliest. She said that nothing needs to be done in order to hold Closed Sessions before Village Council meetings, which would merely entail sending out a Special Public Meeting Notice.

 

Councilmember Winograd asked if a Closed Session could be suspended (if there is not enough time to finish before the start time of a Village Council meeting) and then reconvened at the end of the Village Council meeting. Ms. Mailander replied that this could be done. She stated that the Closed Session would just need to be suspended, and a continuation of the Closed Session held at the end of the Village Council meeting.

 

Councilmember Reynolds asked about Councilmember Weitz’s suggestion to hold public comments from 7:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. While he felt that this was a good suggestion, Mayor Vagianos replied that he is proposing that public comments be kept “as is” (at the beginning and at the end of each meeting) for a three-month period. Councilmember Reynolds remarked that she will not be able to attend the meeting on March 8, 2023. She stated that she is opposed to moving the start time of Public Meetings to 7:30 P.M., since it will be very difficult for her to arrive in time for a Closed Session meeting at 7:00 P.M. Mayor Vagianos said that everyone will have a hard time arriving at meetings early or staying late at meetings, but he felt that a greater audience would be available at 7:30 P.M. rather than at 11:00 P.M. There was a discussion about the circumstances during which a Village Councilmember may attend a meeting via Zoom or by phone.

 

Deputy Mayor Perron asked whether items pertaining to Ridgewood Water would still be placed at the beginning of an agenda, and Ms. Mailander replied that they would. Any other items would be given priority depending upon the action that needed to be taken on a particular item at a Public Meeting in the future.

 

Mayor Vagianos asked how his Council colleagues felt about the proposed changes he just enumerated (waivable curfew, earlier start times, public comments, and time limits on presentations). Councilmember Winograd said that she would be willing to try the pilot program for the waivable curfew, but she was not totally in favor of all of the changes. She didn’t want people making presentations to feel like they were in a “pressure cooker” and had to rush through their presentation. She said that she would defer to the opinions of the other Councilmembers. Councilmember Weitz and Deputy Mayor Perron indicated that they were in favor of all changes.

 

Councilmember Reynolds indicated that she felt the same way as Councilmember Winograd. She did not feel that there should be any time limit for public comments, and she was not in favor of ending meetings at 11:00 P.M., particularly if there are people waiting to speak. In addition, she stated that she did not feel a person should be forced to stop giving a presentation because their time is up, particularly if they worked very hard to develop their presentation. Mayor Vagianos clarified by saying that he was not proposing decreasing the time for public comments and that the waivable curfew would only be tried on a trial basis for three months. It was agreed that the proposed changes would take place as soon as possible, and that the waivable curfew would be instituted on a trial basis for three months. Mr. Rogers clarified that this was not a formal vote, since the meeting this evening is just a Work Session. A formal vote will be taken on March 8, 2023.

 

7.         PUBLIC COMMENTS

 

Hans Lehmann, 234 Union Street, stated that the Village now has the opportunity to fill two important positions in the Village: Village Manager and Police Chief (once Chief Jacqueline Luthcke retires in the very near future). He said that the Village Manager holds a commanding job overseeing all operations in the Village, in addition to supervising the employees charged with the responsibility of carrying out those operations. He felt that the ethical character of a candidate should be an important consideration when choosing people to fill these leadership roles. The candidate should have a track record of managing a large workforce and have the ability to understand budgeting and human resource management. Mr. Lehmann stated that the Village will have a hard time filling the vacancy left by Chief Luthcke and finding a candidate to steer the police force through difficult times. He said that police departments nationally are facing difficult choices in deciding which direction to take in the future, and the Ridgewood Police Department is no exception.

 

In the past, Mr. Lehmann stated that a strong police presence was evident throughout a municipality, either on foot or on bicycles, and residents knew police officers personally. Today, police officers are heavily armed and armored, riding around in black police vehicles with tinted windows. In Ridgewood, the police officers keep to themselves at Van Neste Square, often in groups of three or four. He stated that he longs for the days when he knew the names of each police officer and could say a “quick hello” to them. He urged the Village Council to ask any potential candidate for the position of Police Chief what their views are regarding community policing, professionalism in the ranks, accountability to Ridgewood residents, and transparency.

 

Mayor Vagianos clarified by stating that while it is the role of the Village Councilmembers to select the Village Manager, it is the role of the Village Manager to select the Police Chief.

 

Kathryn Schmidt, 123 South Irving Street, stated that her sentiment today is “mea culpa” (Latin phrase acknowledging one’s fault or error). She regrets not staying abreast on the progress of the Schedler property development, having assumed that everything was “wrapped up” when Resolution 18-236 was adopted by the Village Council. This resolution approved the 2017 plans, which were arrived at through compromise on all sides, including neighbors who live close to the property. Ms. Schmidt urged the Village Councilmembers and everyone else to drive to the corner of West Saddle River Road and Terhune Avenue and try to picture how they would feel if “something like this” were happening in their neighborhood.

 

Ms. Schmidt said that changes have been made to the 2017 plan, which should not negate the underlying concept of the plan. She said that neighbors would prefer more trees and no field, but the neighbors agreed to the construction of a field because it was a smaller one. However, Ms. Schmidt stated that a full-sized field is now being considered, which would entail the cutting down of yet more trees. She acknowledged that many things have changed in the country and around the world since the Schedler property was purchased by the Village and since the plan was adopted in 2017. She stated that if changes are being considered that further develop the property, then equal consideration also needs to be given to changes that may require even less development.

 

Ms. Schmidt indicated that things have changed in terms of more frequent flooding and a greater need for sports fields, but things have also changed significantly regarding our growing knowledge of the importance of trees (as stated clearly in the Master Plan) and the problems of particulate, noise and light pollution. She stated that the Schedler property has served as a buffer between Route 17 and the neighboring properties for years, and she felt that this aspect needs to be considered when deciding what to do with the Schedler property.

 

Ms. Schmidt questioned whether the current sports fields in Ridgewood are being used effectively. She stated that she lives near Brookside Field, which floods occasionally, but which seems to only be used for two months in the spring and six to eight weeks in the fall. She wondered how many other fields were underutilized. She questioned whether there is enough demand for sports fields to warrant the cutting down of so many buffer trees on the Schedler property. She wondered if there were other options to explore concerning shared field services.

 

Ms. Schmidt said that she understood that less development may seem like a “non-starter,” because the Village is obligated to develop the Schedler property with certain stipulations due to how the property acquisition was funded. She wondered if there were other options to explore to ”un-develop” the property without defaulting on the Village’s obligations. She concluded by stating that if the Village Councilmembers are letting sports groups drive their decisions, they cannot ignore the neighbors. If the Village Councilmembers want the Schedler project to be completed quickly, Ms. Schmidt stated that they should stick to the original 2017 plan.

 

Ms. Schmidt stated that the comments made this evening pertaining to meeting improvements are wonderful; however, she wonders why an ordinance needs to be passed in order to manage meeting agendas. She suggested a “soft launch” of the pilot program without formality.

 

Rurik Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, stated that this evening’s meeting was terrific and suggested that one way to shorten meetings was for the Village Councilmembers to speak less. Regarding the Schedler property, Mr. Halaby said that he has followed the progress of this project diligently. He stated that this project is an “unmitigated colossal $7.2 million disaster,” regarding the house, berm, costs and inefficiencies. Mr. Halaby stated that it was not a practical option for the Village Council to “go back to the drawing board” and start afresh. A more practical approach would be to complete the sports section with a full-sized, multipurpose playing field and to complete the renovations to the Zabriskie-Schedler house as quickly as possible, so that it can be rented out. If that cannot be accomplished, then Mr. Halaby suggested “moth-balling” the project for future generations to figure out what to do with it. Mr. Halaby felt that it was going to be very difficult finding a use for the house.

 

Mr. Halaby stated that the berm on the Schedler property occupies one of the seven acres on the property.  He said that this was a ludicrous waste of space. Mr. Halaby contacted two firms that specialize in remediation and restoration. He would like the Village Council to figure out what to do with the berm, so that one acre of trees and bushes can fill that space. Mr. Halaby recommended that the Village purchase the property adjacent to the Schedler property, which could be used for parking, as well as ingress and egress located far away from the Route 17 exit ramp. He said that he was very uncomfortable having the entrance to the park so close to that ramp.

 

Mr. Halaby suggested that the Village work with a forensic auditor to determine how the $7.2 million were expended. He said that he was told that windows installed in the house cost $1,000.00 each, yet he feels that the windows look cheap when viewed from the outside. He also suggested that the Village hire an independent forensic attorney to investigate the “relationship” with SHPO as it pertains to the Schedler property. Mr. Halaby said that he is very uncomfortable with the actions that have taken place to date. In addition, Mr. Halaby said that a blue ribbon citizens committee should be established to oversee the Schedler property. Their initial step would entail a thorough visit to the property and house.

 

Mr. Halaby concluded by stating that he is thrilled how Mayor Vagianos is running Village Council meetings, stating that they are very quiet and gentle.

 

Linda Koch, 60 North Hillside Place, stated that she is confused about what is going on with the plans for the Schedler property. It was her understanding that after very extensive discussions were held involving Village officials, neighbors, and sports organization representatives, that a very good compromise plan was arrived at in 2017. This plan included a smaller field and playground. Ms. Koch is very concerned about the environmental harm, which could be brought about by overdeveloping the Schedler property. She said that there was an entire ecosystem of wildlife and vegetation on the property, including a foraging ground for four bald eagles (a New Jersey endangered species) and three black-crowned night herons (a threatened species).

 

Ms. Koch said that she was surprised to hear some of the comments this evening about the particulate dangers from artificial turf. She said that she certainly wouldn’t want her children or future grandchildren to play on artificial turf. She is also concerned about the removal of too many trees from the property, particularly in light of global warming. The tree roots would absorb water, which would prevent flooding. Ms. Koch stated that there was not enough foresight when it was decided to install artificial turf on the Village fields, which constantly flood. She would like to see the Village Councilmembers consider the environmental harm, which could occur if artificial turf is used, and too many trees are razed on the Schedler property.

 

Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that the Sunshine Law does not prohibit a speaker from saying someone’s name, and the Open Public Meetings Act does not permit four elected officials from excluding a fifth official from a discussion and decisions about an employee. She thanked Councilmember Reynolds for apologizing to the members of the public who were not initially allowed to speak during public comments. She said that, typically, public comments do not take too long because not many people attend meetings. Ms. Loving said that she was shocked to hear Mayor Vagianos end public comments while people were still waiting to speak, particularly because he always states that he loves to hear comments from the public. She said that some people had to leave before speaking, since they had to get up early for work the following morning.

 

Ms. Loving said that the Ad Hoc Communications Committee talked about transparent and open communication. She said that communication can certainly be improved by allowing those who wish to speak at the meeting, to do so. Ms. Loving stated that she was not in favor of removing public comments at the end of Village Council meetings. She quoted a saying from Roger Wiegand, which read, “The public should always have the final word.” She said that many comments at the end of Village Council meetings pertain to what was said or discussed during the meeting.

 

Ms. Loving thanked Deputy Mayor Perron for her sensible comments about the myriad hazards of artificial turf. As a retired clinical microbiologist, Ms. Loving said that she has witnessed horrific infections from skin tears sustained by soccer players after playing on artificial turf. She said that an historic property cannot be covered with a “big rubber rug.” She advocated against the use of turf and stated that she was in favor of the smaller field.

 

Ms. Loving said that she has heard Mayor Vagianos say many times that decisions would be made quickly on the Schedler property. However, a while ago she heard him say about another project that “it could be done quickly or it could be done right.” She would like to see the property developed in the right way, without the larger field and without turf.

 

Denise Lima, 319 East Glen Avenue, said that Deputy Mayor Perron had indicated this evening that a new energy consultant hired by the Village was searching for energy prices, which were better than those offered by PSE&G, which would lower residents’ energy bills. She asked whether this was something endorsed or sponsored by the Village.

 

Ms. Lima stated that she was looking forward to improvements to the Village website. She indicated that she would be happy to write content for the website concerning the history of Ridgewood.

 

Regarding the pilot program for the waivable curfew, Ms. Lima indicated that she appreciates how late the Village Councilmembers work and understands the need for the curfew.  She does not think an ordinance is necessary, but she is in favor of the pilot program. She believes that public comments need to be heard at both the beginning and end of each Village Council meeting.

 

Regarding the Schedler property, Ms. Lima stated that Councilmember Winograd asked residents to write to her concerning any questions or concerns, and that she would be posting some things on the website. However, when Ms. Lima contacted Councilmember Winograd, she was told by Councilmember Winograd to contact the Village Manager so that she could obtain the necessary information. Since no information has been forthcoming, Ms. Lima asked for some guidance in this regard.

 

Ms. Lima indicated that when she looks at the proposed changes for the Schedler property, all she sees is a sports complex rather than a park. She does not see many trees or any nature-like walking path through woods, since if the trees are removed, people will only be walking past a parking lot, with people coming and going. She does not see a serene playground for children, since it will be located next to the restrooms. She does not see picnic tables for people to enjoy. Ms. Lima feels that the larger field encroaches upon the historic house. She indicated that she has spoken to many people “from the State” this past week and they are not at all happy with the proposed larger field. She said that the proposed changes do not take into account the impact these changes will have on the neighbors’ quality of life. Ms. Lima stated that there are no measurements or dimensions on the plans, and she does not see any sewers or drainage systems on the plans. She said that the Village Councilmembers are trying to fit a square peg into a round hole, without performing their due diligence.

 

Robert Koch, 60 North Hillside Place, asked if the meeting this evening is formal or informal, since he does not see a stenographer. He added that he has not attended a meeting in years. Mr. Koch said that he would have appreciated a formal introduction of the person giving the update on the Schedler property. He figured out later on that it was Mr. Rutishauser. He said that the viewing audience needs to know who is speaking at meetings. In addition, he said he did not know what SHPO is, but later figured out that it is the State Historic Preservation Office. Mr. Koch said that he is still unsure whether the original plans developed in 2017 have SHPO approval or not.  Councilmember Winograd replied that those plans do not have SHPO approval, since the original 2017 plans were never submitted to SHPO. Mr. Koch asked whether the original plans had the consensus of the neighbors in the Schedler area, and he was told that they did have the neighbors’ approval.

 

Mr. Koch stated that he rides his bicycle “all over the place.” He stated that the section of West Saddle River Road by the Schedler property is very tranquil. In fact, he said that one would not even realize that this area was close to Route 17. He said that he enjoys riding his bike in this neighborhood because there are people out walking their dogs and it is a very peaceful area. Mr. Koch feels that the Village Councilmembers should defer to the consensus of the neighbors regarding the development of the Schedler property. He said that he sincerely doubts that they want a gargantuan sports complex in their backyard. Regarding artificial turf, Mr. Koch recited a quote made by baseball player Richie Allen in the 1970s: “If a horse can’t eat it, I don’t want to play on it.”

Mayor Vagianos told Mr. Koch that all Village Council meetings are recorded and can be viewed on YouTube. He said there are very few full-sized sports fields in Ridgewood, and those fields flood after every major storm because they are located in a flood plain. In fact, these fields have flooded five times in the last two years, which adversely affects children of all ages. Mayor Vagianos stated that was the reason why the Village Council is discussing the possibility of constructing a large field on the Schedler property. Due to the dense population in Ridgewood, Mayor Vagianos stated that the last time a full-sized field was constructed in Ridgewood was in 1980. He said that the opportunity of having open land on which to construct a full-sized field in Ridgewood will not occur for a very long time.

 

Councilmember Winograd stated that the Village Councilmembers received a letter, which she was asked to read into the record: “Dear Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, Weitz and Winograd: This is Jin Lee and I live at 561 Bennington Terrace. I am unable to attend the next Council Work Session in person or virtually and wanted to share my thoughts about the Schedler property, which I pass every day as I walk and drive in and out of my neighborhood. If you need to read this letter at the next meeting to enter it in the record, please do so. As long as the Village Engineering’s Office rendition of the property with a full-sized lacrosse/soccer field does not displace the playground, I continue to support putting a full-sized field at Schedler. Each of my three children participated in sports: rec, travel, freshman, JV and varsity. When Ridgewood bought the Schedler property in 2009, I eagerly looked forward to enjoying a park there with them. Today, my oldest is in her third year of living and working in the city and my youngest is a freshman in college. Even when my children were playing sports, I remember the difficulty of getting field time for older kids. I could share story after story about dangerous fields crafted out of makeshift plots and canceled practices. I do not need to be convinced that our youth athletes need another full-size field. I also support a turf field. If we are going to build a field there, we should get as much use out of it as possible. When Hurricane Ida hit in September 2021, Veterans Field was flooded and damaged. I work near Veterans Field and I saw how long it took to get it back in shape. Veterans Field was not ready for practice in the Spring of 2022. We are talking months. The high school stadium was back in action in the Fall of 2021. A few heavy days of rain leaves the grass unplayable for too long, and then overuse does the same. Ask anyone about Citizens Field. I would like to address an issue some residents have raised. Noise from Route 17 makes Schedler inhospitable to competitions. I attended a varsity baseball game at Morristown High School a year ago, and only after the game did I realize the field sits right along 287. That’s a major interstate during rush hour. I did not notice any traffic noise. My point is there are solutions to problems we’re talking about. I am simply tired of “we can’t” and I am encouraged that our Village Council seems to embrace “we can.” Thank you for taking the time to discuss the opportunity we have at Schedler. I ask that you move forward as quickly as possible in making smart choices that take into account the whole Village, and me and my neighborhood who live right nearby Schedler. Respectfully yours, Jin Lee, 561 Bennington Terrace.”

 

Mayor Vagianos apologized and said that he did not notice that there two people waiting to speak remotely. 

 

Laurie Weber, 235 South Irving Street, stated that she has often been accused of being long-winded and thinks that some of the Village Councilmembers are also long-winded and tend to go around in circles and repeat themselves. She said that she was not trying to criticize them, but feels that the Councilmembers are putting the onus on everyone else in order to try to make meetings shorter in length, rather than taking a look at themselves.

Regarding the issue of mentioning names of people during public comment, Ms. Weber said that this feels like censorship to her. She asked where this specific rule is located and what the intent of the rule is, because she doesn’t understand why mentioning a name is “bad.” During the many years she has attended Village Council meetings, she has heard names mentioned many times during public comments, without any admonishment from Village Councilmembers. Ms. Weber stated that Mayor Knudsen’s name was constantly mentioned during prior meetings. She feels that if the Councilmembers can mention other people’s names, then speakers during public comment should be allowed to mention the names of the Councilmembers as well. Ms. Weber stated that Councilmembers reading letters into the record is not necessarily a good practice and did not seem fair. Ms. Weber concluded by stating that she was in favor of keeping public comments at the end of Village Council meetings.

 

Mayor Vagianos stated that the policy of not allowing members of the public to say the names of Councilmembers is not a policy of the current Village Council, but is rather a policy that was in effect long before any of the current Councilmembers were elected to the Village Council. The decision as to whether or not to enforce this policy lies solely with the existing governing body. Mayor Vagianos said that the Village Council is looking for a respectful dialogue. When someone offhandedly mentions someone’s name in a positive vein, they try not to enforce this policy too strictly, in an effort not to cut off all dialogue. However, there are times when a Councilmember has taken a position that some member of the public does not agree with, and the policy is in place so that Village Councilmembers are not attacked publicly.

 

Suzanne Ruane, 705 Kingsbridge Lane, said she wanted to speak about the Kingsbridge Lane Bridge. She has recently learned that a minor was involved in an accident, after the bridge was closed, while attempting to bike into Ridgewood through back streets. The child is fine. Ms. Ruane said that she could furnish the police report to the Village Councilmembers after she has redacted the child’s name. She said it was her understanding that the Village Council has allocated the sum of $100,000.00 to repair the footbridge, but the engineering consultant has billed the Village $40,000.00, which leaves only the sum of $60,000.00 to do the necessary repairs. She is worried that $60,000.00 may not be enough money to complete the repairs, and that there will be further delays as a result. Ms. Ruane is concerned that someone may be seriously injured in the interim, as a result of the footbridge being closed, because they are forced to get to their destination via other routes.

 

Ms. Ruane stated that Village Council meetings are for the benefit of the public, and they should not be treated as a private enterprise. She also said that the tab on the Village website for the Schedler property is not very clear, and people are very interested in reading the documents that are posted on the website. She asked if someone could check this out and make it clearer to the public as to where they can access the pertinent documents.

 

Ms. Ruane stated that at the December 7, 2022 Village Council meeting, the Village Engineer stated that he had been working with SHPO for a year in order to develop plans for the Schedler property which would be satisfactory to SHPO. Mr. Rutishauser indicated that he only had a few more revisions to the plans before he would be able to submit them to SHPO for approval. Ms. Ruane stated that a lot of time and effort went into developing the plans in 2017, including time spent by the Village Engineer, which Ms. Ruane stated were “quickly being erased.”

 

Boyd A. Loving, 342 South Irving Street, said that Councilmember Wietz made some excellent points about ways to cut the length of Village Council meetings. Mr. Loving has worked in the private sector for 37 years, and lengthy meetings would not be tolerated. He has been regularly attending Council meetings for the past 23 years, and he recalls some presentations from vendors, which have taken as long as one hour and 15 minutes. Mr. Loving said that there are currently no controls in place to prevent these lengthy presentations. He agrees with Mayor Vagianos that placing time limitations on the agenda would offer guidance to people who are scheduled to give a presentation. He said that the Village Councilmembers just need to hear the major points of the presentation, rather than all the minutiae. Mr. Loving said that he did not mean to criticize anyone, but some of the Village Councilmembers talk a lot, only because they like to hear themselves talk. He suggested that the Village Councilmembers limit their speeches during meetings, which would cut down on the length of a meeting.

 

Regarding the previous comments made by Ms. Weber, Mr. Loving said that the Sunshine Law specifically states that a public body cannot censure speech during a public comment portion of a meeting, simply because the Village Councilmembers do not agree with what the speaker is saying. He said that the censuring of Ms. Weber from stating the name of a Councilmember is not permitted by law. Besides direct threats, Mr. Loving said that he has the right to mention any names he pleases.

 

There were no further public comments.

 

Mr. Rogers stated that the issue of not mentioning the names of Village Councilmembers was raised during a prior Village Council meeting, when Mr. Halaby raised the same question. He said that members of the public are permitted to name a Councilmember and criticize them if necessary. However, he said that if a comment is threatening, demeaning, disrespectful or disruptive, then the speaker can be limited in what they are allowed to say. Mayor Vagianos said that everyone should try to treat each other as neighbors.

 

Ms. Mailander stated that the trial period for the waivable curfew is not done through an ordinance, but rather by a resolution, since they are required by law to list all Village Council meetings for the year. The times of the Public Meetings have to be changed during the three- month time period, and this must be done via resolution, which has to be sent to the official newspapers, as required by law.

 

Regarding the question raised by Ms. Lima during public comments, Deputy Mayor Perron stated that they have been working on a renewable government energy aggregation plan since 2020. The resolution to move ahead with the program was adopted in February 2021. An energy consultant was recently hired to determine the best time to enter into a contract with an energy supplier.

 

8.         ADJOURNMENT

 

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Deputy Mayor Perron, seconded by Councilmember Reynolds, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Work Session was adjourned at 11:30 P.M.

 

 

 

 

 

                                                                                                                                                           

                                                                                                Paul Vagianos

                                                                                                                     Mayor

 

 

 

 

 

                                                                       

Heather A. Mailander

          Village Manager/Village Clerk