20160701 Village Council Reorganization Meeting Minutes
A REORGANIZATION MEETING OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY ON FRIDAY, JULY 1, 2016, AT 12:00 P.M.
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CALL TO ORDER – MAYOR (CURRENT VILLAGE COUNCIL)
Mayor Aronsohn called the meeting to order at 12:04 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. At roll call, the following were present: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn. Also present were Roberta Sonenfeld, Village Manager; Heather Mailander, Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney.
Mayor Aronsohn led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.
2. INVOCATION – REVEREND MONSIGNOR RONALD J. ROZNIAK – OUR LADY OF MOUNT CARMEL RC CHURCH
The Invocation was given by Reverend Monsignor Ronald J. Rozniak of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Roman Catholic Church who blessed the incoming Councilmembers.
3. RECORDNG OF SONG BY RIDGEWOOD RESIDENT, KRISTEN PLUMLEY, SOPRANO, “SIMPLE GIFTS”
A recording was of “Simple Gifts” by Ridgewood resident, Kristen Plumley was played.
4. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Mayor Aronsohn asked if there were any comments from the public.
Jim Griffith, 159 South Irving Street, thanked Mayor Aronsohn and the Village Council for their service to the Village. He recognized that the Village Council has put in long hours and has successfully accomplished many things never attempted by previous Village Councils.
Tony Damiano, 274 South Broad Street, thanked the Village Council for standing behind their beliefs. This Village Council will be missed; however, he looks forward to working with the new Village Council in the future.
There were no further comments at this time.
5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Village Council minutes of July 15, 2014; and February 11, March 11, March 22, April 1, May 6, June 17, June 24, August 5, September 3, September 8, October 5, November 9, December 9, and December 15, 2015; and January 6, January 12, January 13, January 20, January 27, February 3, February 10, February 16, February 17, February 18, February 24, March 2, March 9, March 23, March 30, April 6, April 12, April 13, April 27, May 4, May 11, May 25, June 1, June 8, June 14, June 15, and June 27, 2016 having been reviewed by the Village Council and now available in the Village Clerk’s Office be approved as submitted. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
6. RESOLUTION #16-181 – APPROVAL OF GIRL SCOUT GOLD AWARD PROJECT
Councilwoman Hauck explained that this award for the Girl Scouts is comparable to the Boy Scout Eagle Scout Award. Kate Becker, a junior at Ridgewood High School, has proposed a project for the clean-up of Maple Park. This project addresses the lack of time people spend in nature in addition to the deterioration of the centrally located Village park and she feels that getting outside, exercising and using open space is good for people’s mental health and well-being. Ms. Becker is repairing the old benches at the park, cleaning out the brush, identifying trees and shrubs, and creating entrance signs. She is formulating a long term maintenance and land endowment plan, which means that the park will be kept up long after she moves on. Councilwoman Hauck applauded Ms. Becker for her efforts and her vision.
The following Resolution #16-181 was read in full by the Village Clerk.
7. PRESENTATION OF GIFTS TO COUNCILWOMAN HAUCK, DEPUTY MAYOR PUCCIARELLI, AND MAYOR ARONSOHN BY COUNCILWOMAN KNUDSEN AND COUNCILMAN SEDON
Village Councilmembers Knudsen and Sedon presented Village Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli and Mayor Aronsohn with watercolor prints of the Ridgewood train station and key pins to the Village.
8. REMARKS BY COUNCILWOMAN GWENN H. HAUCK
Councilwoman Hauck stated that it has been an incredible joy for her to have been guided by such incredible role models over the past several years. She thanked her family, friends, colleagues as well as other Village Councilmembers. She stated that she is ending a four year term as a Village Councilmember in the Village which has been a challenging job and a great personal passion that she will always remember. Councilwoman Hauck stated that she now has firsthand experience relative to the running of a municipality, in addition to vast experience with committees; the Planning Board; facilities, personnel and legal issues; and most of all parking issues. She noted that few people can understand the complexity of this job until they do it themselves and she learned a lot from the people who both agreed and disagreed with her.
The Village has been deeply divided over many issues and Councilwoman Hauck stressed the importance of mutual respect for the various viewpoints of Village residents. She recognized Mayor Aronsohn and Councilman Pucciarelli, Village Manager Roberta Sonenfeld, Jim Griffith, Isabella Altano, Rurik Halaby, Siobhan Winograd, Paul Vagianos, Amy Bourque, Nancy Bigos, Peggy Norris, Joe Suplicki, Jim Van Goor, Jan Phillips, Hans-Jurgen Lehmann, Janet Fricke, Heather Mailander, Charles Nalbantian, and the new Police Chief Jacqueline Luthcke. These people have taught her about passion, respect, grace under fire, honesty and integrity.
Councilwoman Hauck listed many accomplishments over the past four years including keeping taxes down, resolving the muti-housing debate in the most appropriate way possible, and the hiring of Roberta Sonenfeld, a business person, to run the day to day operations of the Village. Other accomplishments that need to be recognized are the renegotiation of public safety contracts and the organization of community-building events with the help of the Recreation Department. Senior citizens are now back on the map in Ridgewood and they are recognized as vital members of the community. Councilwoman Hauck stated that parking is the most important issue to be addressed by the incoming Village Council. The new Village Council will do great things because of their passion for the community.
Councilwoman Hauck recounted a story about her husband’s family who experienced a tragic fire and thought they had lost everything. They did not lose everything and, after some reflection, realized that this was an event that they overcame. They were able to learn how much they valued and what was important. She said that recent events in Ridgewood seem like catastrophes, which have been dividing residents and she encouraged everyone to get past these disagreements in order to remain a family and a heart-warming community. Councilwoman Hauck concluded by stating that it has been a privilege to serve on the Ridgewood Village Council. At this time, Councilwoman Hauck left the dais.
9. REMARKS BY COUNCLMAN ALBERT J. PUCCIARELLI
Councilman Pucciarelli recalled that on July 1, 2012, he identified challenges he hoped the Village Council would address. These challenges consisted of the high cost of government and taxes; a top to bottom review of services provided by the Village; the redevelopment of the Central Business District (CBD); parking solutions; the need to keep the Library operating at full force; the need for a comprehensive Shade Tree policy; and the heightened awareness of the many artistic endeavors in this community. He pointed out how tirelessly Roberta Sonenfeld, Village Manager; Heather Mailander, Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney work for the good of the Village. He thanked the many volunteers in the Village, the Library Board of Trustees, the Ridgewood Arts Council and the Financial Advisory Committee for their contributions. Councilman Pucciarelli said he would look back at his years as a Councilmember with satisfaction, knowing that most of the goals he highlighted four years ago had been accomplished. The agreements on multi-family housing zones are lowering the moat of exclusion in the Village and he looks forward to opening the Village to new neighbors who require affordable housing in order to live in Ridgewood.
Councilman Pucciarelli stated that some business remains unfinished, such as the replacement of the Village’s Fleet Services Garage on Chestnut Street and the construction of a parking structure. He will leave these items to the new Council and he wished them the best. He thanked Councilwoman Hauck and Mayor Aronsohn, whom he described as two of the most decent and committed people he has ever known. He recalled that he has said many times that democracy rewards participation and he encouraged those unhappy with the way things are going, to step forward and be heard. Councilman Pucciarelli said that he is grateful for the opportunity to have served as Deputy Mayor. At this time, Councilman Pucciarelli left the dais.
10. REMARKS BY MAYOR PAUL S. AONSOHN
Mayor Aronsohn said that serving as both Councilmember and Mayor has been an extraordinary experience. He noted that the big issues such as multi-family housing, parking and Valley Hospital are important; however, at the heart of the Village are the day to day issues of Village government. These issues include the programs and services offered by the Parks and Recreation Department; the Streets Division who ensures that the streets are plowed and that the leaves and garbage is picked up; and the work done by the Police, Fire and EMS Departments. Also included are emergency preparedness and emergency response to big events such as Superstorm Sandy and smaller events such as flooding; the work of the Building Department; the Engineering Department and the Health Department. Mayor Aronsohn said that he was involved in the day to day workings of the Village noting that he has met with countless residents over the past few years. This includes walking the streets to gain a better understanding of their concerns regarding traffic and pedestrian safety, going to local non-profit events, performing weddings and attending wakes. He has experienced the day to day workings of local government such as answering phone calls and emails, and working through issues both large and small. Many issues relative to access and disability have been addressed, such as working with special needs children in schools and athletic programs. Mayor Aronsohn was happy to say he was involved in the appointment of the Village’s first female Village Manager, who brought extraordinary experience, energy and passion to the job. He is also happy to have sworn in the first female police chief in the history of the Village, who is someone who is a product of the school system in Ridgewood.
Mayor Aronsohn stated that he loves this job. It is not a thankless job because it is a labor of love which has been a wonderful experience. Mayor Aronsohn said that it has been an honor and a privilege to serve the residents and he has made sure that he spent these last few months thanking his colleagues and the residents. He gave special thanks to his wife, his son and his daughter for their support and the sacrifices they have made in order for him to do this job. At this time, Mayor Aronsohn left the dais.
11. READING OF CERTIFICATE OF ELECTION OF ROMAN M. HACHE – VILLAGE CLERK
Ms. Mailander read the Certificate of Election for Ramon M. Hache, indicating that he was elected to serve a four-year term on the Village Council commencing July 1, 2015 and ending on July 1, 2020.
12. OATH OF OFFICE ADMINISTERED TO RAMON M. HACHE BY BERGEN COUNTY EXECUTIVE, JAMES J. TEDESCO III
Bergen County Executive, James J. Tedesco, III administered the Oath of Office to Ramon Hache while his brother and children looked on. Councilman Hache then signed the Oath of Office. There was a round of applause and congratulations from Mr. Tedesco.
13. REMARKS BY COUNCILMAN HACHE
Councilman Hache thanked his family, friends and relatives who did so much to help him get to where he is today. He stated that he is honored to be a member of the Ridgewood Village Council, which is facing many significant issues that are not easy and will take a lot of work to resolve. Councilman Hache said that the new Council will have to steer the community through issues it has never faced before, but he assured everyone that the new Council will get the job done. Councilmembers must respect each other and work through their differences in order to come up with the best solutions to serve the best interests of the community. This Council is committed to open and transparent dialogue. They will respect the residents and work together to face the issues ahead, which are not insurmountable.
Councilman Hache declared that Ridgewood is standing at the crossroads of progress and tradition, neither one of which should be neglected. They must move forward responsibly by listening to Village officials, committees and Board members, in addition to the residents and stakeholders in the Village. He is proud to be a member of this great team, in a great community, and he added that they are all here to work for the residents of this community, which is comprised of so many talented and passionate people.
Councilman Hache invited everyone to be part of the process and to work with the Council. Everyone is a steward of the community and everyone needs to combine their collective talents to ensure that the decisions of the Village Council reflect the vision of the residents. There must be an end to the divisiveness, because a house divided against itself cannot stand. Councilman Hache again encouraged everyone to work together because Ridgewood is one of the best places to work, to live, and to raise a family and together it can be even better.
14. READING OF CERTIFICATE OF ELECTION OF JEFFREY VOIGT – VILLAGE CLERK
Ms. Mailander read the Certificate of Election for Jeffrey Voigt, indicating that he was elected to serve a four-year term on the Village Council commencing July 1, 2015 and ending on July 1, 2020.
15. OATH OF OFFICE ADMINISTERED TO JEFFREY VOIGT BY SERGIO ALEGRE, ESQ.
Sergio Alegre, Esq. administered the Oath of Office to Jeffrey Voigt while his wife and children looked on. Councilman Voigt then signed the Oath of Office. There was a round of applause and congratulations from Mr. Alegre.
16. REMARKS BY COUNCILMAN VOIGT
Councilman Voigt stated that he is humbled by the vote of confidence during the recent election. He is committed to working towards solutions that are in the best interests of the Village. Councilman Voigt thanked his campaign team consisting of Sergio Alegre, John Chadwick, Wendy Dockray, Carol and Kevin Mattessich, Bill McCabe and Ann Spalckhaver who all care deeply about the Village. He thanked those in the audience for their help and he looks forward to serving them during the next four years.
Councilman Voigt said that the Village will be facing many issues during the next four years. The solutions to these issues lie within those on the dais and he hopes everyone is energized and willing to participate to solve the problems, along with the Village Council. This invitation is extended to those with opposing views whose help is also needed, because listening to those with alternative views allows for better decisions. Councilman Voigt realized after speaking with the Village Manager that there are a number of underutilized Village assets that they could take advantage of in order to increase revenue generation. These services could be marketed to other municipalities and businesses, with additional dollars generated to lower taxes. The committees he will be working with will study how to maximize these assets in order to increase revenue streams.
Councilman Voigt stated that Job One is to resolve the parking issue in the CBD with a focus on the realignment of parking spaces and streets, a smaller parking garage on Hudson Street and the renovation of while simultaneously making the downtown more accessible, user friendly and safe. Through the use of innovative pricing, the parking utility can be a more significant revenue and surplus generator of funds for the Village. They must also think of high density housing in a sensible manner, which enhances the character of the Village. In addition, Valley Hospital needs to be a better neighbor and offer sensible solutions. Councilman Voigt stated that he has experience in the field of health care and he is confident that Valley Hospital can thrive in the rapidly changing health care market. He plans to reach out to all relevant constituents including developers, Valley Hospital, the Chamber of Commerce and the residents with these initiatives to keep the dialogue alive, and to work toward viable solutions.
Councilman Voigt stated that many issues have been hotly contested by the outgoing Village Council majority, which could make the path to resolution easier. He encouraged the use of momentum that has been gained through this process to put some of these issues to bed. He looks forward to working on new initiatives with many residents on the various boards and commissions. Councilman Voigt pointed out that there are many committed and smart members of these Boards, who can make Ridgewood a better place to live, and he looks forward to working hand in hand with these individuals to ensure that those who do the work, get credit and recognition.
Councilman Voigt stated that he anticipates working with Bernadette Walsh, Susan Knudsen, Michael Sedon and Ramon Hache, who are all independently minded. This will be his second full time job and he is certain it will be time well spent, in addition to being extremely gratifying. Councilman Voigt thanked his wife and children and added that his family has lived in Ridgewood for twenty-three years. He again encouraged everyone to work together to make Ridgewood an even better place to live than it is today.
17. READING OF CERTIFICATE OF ELECTION OF BERNADETTE COGHLAN-WALSH – VILLAGE CLERK
Ms. Mailander read the Certificate of Election for Bernadette Coghlan-Walsh, indicating that she was elected to serve a four-year term on the Village Council commencing July 1, 2015 and ending on July 1, 2020.
18. OATH OF OFFICE ADMINISTERED TO BERNADETTE COGHLAN-WALSH BY BERGEN COUNTY FREEHOLDER MAURA R. DENICOLA
Freeholder Maura DeNicola administered the Oath of Office to Bernadette Coghlan-Walsh while her family held the Bible and her sister looked on. Councilwoman Walsh then signed the Oath of Office. There was a round of applause and congratulations from Freeholder DeNicola.
19. REMARKS BY COUNCILWOMAN WALSH
Councilwoman Walsh stated that this will be her second term as a Councilmember in the Village of Ridgewood and she looks forward to taking on the challenges of this job. There is a great amount of work to be done in the Village and everyone must put their differences aside, to work together as a community. There will be disagreements along the way, but Councilwoman Walsh pledged her commitment to do what is in the best interests of the Village. She stated that she looks forward to participating in an open forum, having active work sessions and a minimum amount of Closed Sessions.
Councilwoman Walsh recognized the talents of her fellow Councilmembers and said she wants to concentrate her talents on a comprehensive health, safety and environmental initiative for the Village. This is imperative, considering the planned development and construction that is anticipated over the next several years.
Councilwoman Walsh thanked her friend Kristen Plumley for recording the song “Simple Gifts”, which was played earlier, and Freeholder DeNicola for her support. In addition, she thanked everyone who helped with her campaign, her family, her running mates and Councilmembers Knudsen and Sedon for their support.
20. ROLL CALL OF NEW VILLAGE COUNCIL – VILLAGE CLERK
Ms. Mailander called the roll of the new Village Council: Councilmembers Hache, Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, and Walsh. All were present.
21. CALL FOR NOMINATION OF OFFICE OF MAYOR BY VILLAGE CLERK
Ms. Mailander called for the nominations for the office of Mayor of the Village of Ridgewood. Councilman Sedon made a motion for the nomination of Councilwoman Susan Knudsen as Mayor of the Village of Ridgewood for a two-year term commencing July 1, 2016. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt and Walsh
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Sedon moved that the nominations for Mayor be closed, seconded by Councilman Hache.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt and Walsh
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Ms. Mailander stated that there would be a roll call vote on the nomination of Susan Knudsen as Mayor of the Village of Ridgewood for a two-year term commencing July 1, 2016.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt and Walsh
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
22. ADMINISTERING OATH OF OFFICE TO MAYOR BY VILLAGE ATTORNEY
Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney, administered the Oath of Office to Mayor Susan Knudsen, as her husband held the Bible and her family looked on. There was a round of applause for Mayor Knudsen.
23. CALL FOR NOMINATION FOR OFFICE OF DEPUTY MAYOR BY MAYOR KNUDSEN
Mayor Knudsen called for the nominations for the office of Deputy Mayor of the Village of Ridgewood. Councilwoman Walsh moved for the nomination of Councilman Michael Sedon as Deputy Mayor of the Village of Ridgewood for a two-year term commencing July 1, 2016. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Mayor Knudsen asked if there were any other nominations for Deputy Mayor of the Village of Ridgewood and there were none. Mayor Knudsen moved that the nominations for Deputy Mayor be closed. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Ms. Mailander stated that there would be a roll call vote on the nomination of Michael Sedon as Deputy Mayor of the Village of Ridgewood for a two-year term commencing July 1, 2016.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh and Mayor Knudsen
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
24. ADMINISTERING OATH OF OFFICE TO DEPUTY MAYOR
Ms. Mailander administered the Oath of Office to Deputy Mayor Sedon. There was a round of applause for Deputy Mayor Sedon.
25. REMARKS BY DEPUTY MAYOR SEDON
Councilman Sedon thanked his family for tolerating the significant amount of time he spends away from them as a member of the Village Council in Ridgewood. He also thanked the employees of the Village who make Ridgewood such a special place. Councilman Sedon noted that elections are about the future and he feels positive about the future of Ridgewood. The residents have indicated that they want change and he is hopeful that the Village can be steered in a new direction; however, challenges remain such as parking in the CBD. This Council is committed to quickly drafting a comprehensive parking plan for the CBD. Councilman Sedon stated that he hopes to create a committee of residents to address this and other issues relative to the downtown similar to a District Management Corporation in a Business Improvement District.
Councilman Sedon noted other outstanding issues, including improvements to Ridgewood Water, Valley Hospital, pedestrian safety, the reforestation of Ridgewood after recent severe storms, maintaining and development of parklands and sports fields and managing the budget. He would like to explore the possibility of tax relief options such as a freeze on taxes for senior citizens at a certain income level to encourage them to stay in their homes. Constant tax increases are forcing those on fixed incomes out of the Village and this needs to stop.
Councilman Sedon stated that the Village Council is facing a big job ahead, which he is happy to tackle with the help of the Council and the residents working as partners. Building trust within the community should be a top priority in order to implement changes. Employees of the Village must trust each other, in order to continue the efficient delivery of services and goods to the residents. Councilman Sedon is sure that this Council will work hard to serve and to be honest with the community when the true work begins, after the July 4th holiday.
26. REMARKS BY MAYOR KNUDSEN
Mayor Knudsen thanked everyone, including her family, for attending today’s meeting, as well as Father Ronald J. Rozniak for his remarks earlier. She thanked Village Attorney, Matthew Rogers, for administering the oath of office. Mayor Knudsen recognized the Village Clerk, Heather Mailander, and the Deputy Village Clerk, Donna Jackson, for organizing the Reorganization Meeting and the luncheon that will follow. She thanked Village employees for their continued support of the Village Council and she congratulated the new Chief of Police, Jacqueline Luthcke, who was sworn in earlier today. In addition, Mayor Knudsen thanked County Executive James Tedesco; County Freeholder Maura DeNicola; and County Clerk, John Hogan, for their attendance.
Mayor Knudsen congratulated her Council colleagues including Jeff Voigt, who served with her on the Zoning Board of Adjustment, and Michael Sedon, the new Deputy Mayor. She stated that the congeniality which has been demonstrated bodes well for the Village, and the mutual respect they have for each other will set the tone for the next two years and beyond. Ridgewood is an amazing community and although everyone doesn’t agree on everything she is confident that everyone wants only the best for the Village. Mayor Knudsen remarked that safeguarding the quality of life in Ridgewood, property values, historic landmarks, schools, parklands and the CBD are of the utmost importance. There are many challenges ahead, and the success of this Council will be the byproduct of their willingness to work together with the Village Manager, staff and community members. She noted that just as important is open, inclusive and transparent government.
Mayor Knudsen thanked the citizens of the Village and said that serving the community is a privilege. She concluded by stating that she would always be mindful of the words of a former resident of the Village who said that “the public should always have the final word”.
27. PRESENTATIONS BY JAMES TEDESCO AND JOHN HOGAN
Bergen County Executive James Tedesco III announced that he had Certificates of Commendation to distribute to the Mayor and Deputy Mayor. He stated that the Village has a partnership with Bergen County. The County is willing to work with the Village in areas where they can help each other for the good of the local community as well as the County.
John Hogan, Bergen County Clerk, congratulated everyone who participated in the election process both successfully and unsuccessfully. He encouraged everyone to celebrate democracy in Ridgewood. Mr. Hogan said that there is no satisfaction better than serving with people in the community, and he distributed Certificates of Commendation from his office.
28. RESOLUTIONS
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 16-182 THROUGH 16-196, WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA, WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:
29. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
David Slomin, 36 Heights Road, stated that open representation, and not politics is the key to successful Village government.
Lorraine Reynolds, 550 Wyndemere Avenue, congratulated the new Village Council and said she is excited about the next two years.
There were no further comments from the public.
30. ADOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Sedon, seconded by Councilwoman Walsh, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 1:25 P.M.
_________________________________ Susan Knudsen Mayor
_________________________________ Heather A. Mailander Village Clerk
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