A REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY ON JULY 14, 2021 AT 8:00 P.M.

 

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

 

Mayor Knudsen called the meeting to order at 8:00 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act.  At roll call the following were present: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen.  Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney. 

 

Mayor Knudsen led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag, as well as in a Moment of Silence for our men and women serving our nation, and all of our First Responders.

 

2. ACCEPTANCE OF FINANCIAL REPORTS

 

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Bills, Claims, and Vouchers, and Statement of Funds on Hand as of June 30, 2021, be accepted as submitted.  Councilwoman Perron seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

 

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Council minutes of February 24 and April 28, 2021 having been reviewed by the Village Council and now available in the Village Clerk’s Office, be approved as submitted.  Deputy Mayor Sedon seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

 

 

 

 

 

4. PROCLAMATIONS

 

1. RECOGNIZE RETIREMENT OF DONNA M. JACKSON, DEPUTY VILLAGE CLERK

 

Mayor Knudsen and Councilwoman Walsh read the following proclamation:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5. APPOINTMENT OF DEPUTY VILLAGE CLERK

 

1. RESOLUTION 21-206 APPOINT EILEEN YOUNG AS DEPUTY VILLAGE CLERK

 

Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk, read Resolution 21-206 in full, as follows:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2. SWEARING-IN OF EILEEN YOUNG AS DEPUTY VILLAGE CLERK

 

Mayor Knudsen praised Donna Jackson, adding she sets the bar for how people should treat one another and she will miss her terribly.  Councilwoman Reynolds praised Donna Jackson both as a resident and Councilmember, adding she hopes Donna enjoys her retirement.  Councilwoman Walsh stated she remembers the day that Donna was hired, adding that everything was run smoothly and there was such camaraderie in the Village Clerk’s Office, which is invaluable.  Councilwoman Perron stated that residents have Donna to thank for how smoothly the election districts are run.  Deputy Mayor Sedon thanked Donna for her help and service.  Ms. Mailander thanked Donna for all her work in the Village Clerk’s Office and for taking on the responsibility of running that office so she could be the Village Manager, which she really appreciates.  She wished her the best in her retirement.  Mr. Rogers stated that he appreciated every moment that they had to work together, and he wished Donna and Walter, her husband, happiness in retirement.  There was a round of applause.

 

Mayor Knudsen presented Ms. Jackson with gifts from Ridgewood establishments, a pin, which is shaped like a key to the Village, her nameplate, and the Proclamation.

 

Mayor Knudsen swore in Eileen Young as the Deputy Village Clerk effective August 1, 2021.  Ms. Young’s daughter, Hazel, held the Bible as her other children, Henry and Fiona, and husband, John, looked on. 

 

6. SWEARING-IN OF POLICE OFFICER ANDREW VAN DYKE

 

Mayor Knudsen swore in Police Officer Andrew Van Dyke.  His mother held the Bible.

 

7. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

Rurik Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, extended a short thank you to Donna Jackson and said she truly represents the best and the brightest of what Village Hall is all about. 

 

Anne Burton Walsh, 112 South Irving Street, stated that on behalf of the Executive Committee of the League of Women Voters of Ridgewood, she wanted to express their strong support for reinstating remote access and ability to comment at Village Council meetings, while in person meetings are taking place.  When the Village launched remote access in 2020 due to the COVID-19 crisis, League members noted an increase in government participation in Ridgewood.  Although the health crisis has subsided, the reasons for maintaining remote access remain the same.  She highlighted the benefits of hybrid access.

 

Glen Carlough, 200 Dayton Street, and owner of Steel Wheel Tavern, stated that he was there to advocate for the renewal of the HealthBarn lease.  He stated that HealthBarn is here for the community, and has been there for the restaurant community.  Therefore, he is now supporting HealthBarn.  During the pandemic, restaurants in the Village teamed up with HealthBarn to serve healthy meals to those in need, and it is something that the restauranteurs are extremely proud of.  He added it was hard to see an argument against renewing the lease.  

 

Mr. Carlough also wished Donna Jackson well in her retirement, and noted that Donna is the kind of Village employee who makes him wish he had moved to Ridgewood sooner.

 

Ellie Gruber, 229 South Irving Street, stated that she would like to find out if they know about the awarding of the Schedler grant.  She added that she echoed what Anne Walsh and the League of Women Voters said, stating there has to be a way to set up a phone line for those who do not attend Village Council meetings.

 

Ms. Gruber stated that she wanted to comment on the real tragedy of the many dozens of trees that were taken down on Route 17 North, near the Carriage Lane Condos, asking how a developer could do this.  This is precisely the reason the Village desperately needs a tree protection ordinance.  She hoped that the Village would require the developer to replace trees, to protect those homes from the traffic, exhaust, and noise of the highway.  This is important and she thinks something has to be done about it.

 

William Woods, owner of Chestnut Deli and Catering, stated that he was interested in seeing HealthBarn’s lease renewed.  Not only has HealthBarn helped his business as well as 20 other businesses downtown, HealthBarn also educates members of the community as well.

 

Dr. Janice Shickey, 25 Wilsey Square, stated that she did not know that their property taxes were going to be increased and there should be some communication with the residents if taxes are going to be increased.  She asked for transparency.

 

Ansi Boudin, 936 Glenview Road, stated that she was there to advocate for the children of the Village and HealthBarn.  She added that she has enjoyed walks and programs at Habernickel Park.  The Village parks are for the children and their needs, not hers, which are the priority.  The Village cannot and should not deny any of the children, as it takes a Village to raise a child, and we are that Village.  She asked that the Village Council not continue to state their individual grievances about HealthBarn, and extend the lease.

 

Hans-Jurgen Lehmann, 234 Union Street, stated that last week, the agenda included the lease for HealthBarn and in the first time in his memory the Village Council failed to reach a quorum.  This week, the lease for HealthBarn was not on the agenda until late in the day.  He is encouraged to see it on the agenda now, and hopes the Village will grant a new lease to HealthBarn.

 

Mr. Lehmann stated that his second concern has to do with the policy on Zoom participation.  He thinks it is a mistake to just do away with it.  Many more people have been willing and able to participate in Council meetings through Zoom.  He thinks it is a worthy goal for this Village Council to allow the most number of people to participate in the democratic process.

 

Gus Torez, representing Sombrero Tacoria, stated that he and his family are a new business in Ridgewood, and he was thankful for HealthBarn as without the grant awarded to HealthBarn to provide meals to those in need through Ridgewood restaurants, his business probably wouldn’t be here.  It is helping all of the businesses, and everyone gets a piece of the action.

 

Frank De Luca, representing Best of Everything, stated that the HealthBarn really helped them and many of the restaurants in the Village, and in turn, the restaurants helped with 100,000 meals to those in need.  He hopes the Village Council will renew HealthBarn’s lease because it will continue to spread goodwill throughout the Village and in the Central Business District.

 

Kelly Gioia, 447 Fairway Road, stated that there are some middle-aged people that play pickleball and she was representing her group.  She thinks pickleball should have the same days and times to play as tennis, and if the Village Council thinks they made a mistake with the location of the pickleball courts at Glen, then they need to fix that, because the players need the same access as tennis.  She added that they should get the Zoom meetings back for Village Council meetings.

 

Brian Duddy, General Manager of Tito’s Burritos, stated that HealthBarn was very instrumental in helping the restaurants this year by purchasing meals for local Frontline Workers.  Without their support, his business would have had a hard time surviving this year, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  He hopes that HealthBarn will be able to renew their lease and stay in Ridgewood.

 

Nico Gentile, representing Bare Burger, stated that he doesn’t think enough can be said about the HealthBarn.  During the pandemic, which was such a dismal time, the ability to be paid to make food for feeding those in need, through the HealthBarn Foundation grant, offered a piece of humanity that was lacking.  Cooking and putting the order together for Feed the Frontlines impacted his life, and he knows it impacted others positively, as well.

 

Elaine Peneno, 719 Maxwell Place, stated that because of the HealthBarn Foundation’s grant, a lot of the restaurants that she thinks would have gone under, during the COVID-19 pandemic, have been able to sustain themselves. The sustenance of Ridgewood’s restaurants was also the sustenance of the people who really needed the food.  She is a volunteer for Healing Meals and she can’t say enough about the benefit to the community and hoped that the Village Council would renew the lease for the HealthBarn, as long as they can.

 

Eileen Smith, MacMurphy’s Restaurant, stated that the Feed the Frontlines Initiative helped the Village and the residents, as well as the town because the restaurants were all able to pay their rent.  Regarding the grant awarded to the HealthBarn Foundation, to be able to participate in this initiative and make those meals in the kitchen, was humbling, and to listen to the people appreciate the effort, was beyond unbelievable. Due to everything that HealthBarn does for this community, the Village Council shouldn’t even question renewing the lease.

 

Izzy, Sook Pastry, stated that what HealthBarn did was amazing and worked like clockwork.  She urged, the Village Council to renew the lease. 

 

Deidre Feuerstein, owner of Smoked Restaurant, stated that they have been here for five years, and without HealthBarn’s infusion of grant funds, and the community of restauranteurs that they are so blessed to have, she can’t imagine what would have happened to most of the restaurants.  They are vibrant as restauranteurs and show themselves off and are a reason that people come to Ridgewood.  HealthBarn has fabulous programs and staff, and the Village of Ridgewood is unique as a town, to share a space with HealthBarn. 

 

A representative of Green Fusion, stated that he was there to support the cause for HealthBarn to have their lease renewed.  HealthBarn has been very helpful to the restaurants, and Feed the Frontlines was really an amazing effort. 

 

Rubin Topolay, representing Raymond’s Restaurant, stated that HealthBarn pumped thousands of dollars into the restaurant community when they needed it the most, and he strongly urged the Village Council to renew the lease for HealthBarn.

 

Paul Vagianos, 280 Rivera Court, and owner of It’s Greek to Me, stated that he has never seen any business, person, or entity, have an impact on the Central Business District as much as HealthBarn, at a time when the restaurants needed it the most.  HealthBarn infused $1 million in capital into Ridgewood’s CBD.  HealthBarn has applied for an additional grant, based upon the work that was done, and the Government and Legislature has renewed the program and it will begin again in September, with another $1 million potentially coming in.  He urged the Village Council to not let HealthBarn leave the Village, as everyone is so fortunate to have HealthBarn here and HealthBarn infused every dollar of the $1 million grant into the Village’s downtown. 

 

There were no additional comments from the public, and Mayor Knudsen closed public comment.

 

Councilwoman Perron thanked the restauranteurs for coming and giving their experience.  She is glad there is a new application for another grant, because she looked forward to another opportunity to drive the food for those in need. 

 

On another topic, Councilwoman Perron explains that she and Deputy Mayor Sedon are working on a tree protection ordinance. 

 

8. MANAGER’S REPORT

 

Pedestrian Plaza – Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk, stated that the Pedestrian Plaza opened this past weekend and it was very successful.  Touch a Truck was a highlight, and there will be another on August 21^st. 

 

Summer Recreational Opportunities – Ms. Mailander stated that there are movies in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square, Kasschau Shell Performances every Tuesday and Thursday evening, various summer camps, and Graydon Pool Memberships.

 

Upcoming Meetings – Ms. Mailander stated that the next meetings are August 4^th for a Village Council Public Work Session at 7:30 P.M., August 11^th is a Village Council Public Meeting, September 1^st for a Village Council Public Work Session, and September 8^th for a Village Council Public Meeting.

 

 

 

 

9. VILLAGE COUNCIL REPORTS

 

Chamber of Commerce – Councilwoman Perron stated that the Chamber of Commerce met this morning, and the topic of most discussion was the Hudson Street garage.  They noted that there was a nice photograph of the parking garage that they put in their flyer and she asked for the photograph in a JPEG format so the members can put it out to their customers on social media.  They suggested that the Village Council should advertise this asset, because people don’t know where it is.  She suggested the portable electronic sign be used to direct people to the Hudson Street Garage.  Another suggestion was to consider closing the fourth floor of the garage so that they can temporarily deal with the young people who are throwing items off of the fourth floor of the garage, onto those dining outside of Pearl Restaurant.

 

Open Space – Councilwoman Perron stated that the Open Space Committee had a park walk of Twinney Pond and they came up with suggestions to improve the park.  On Saturday, July 17^th, they are conducting a park walk of Grove Park at 9:00 A.M.

 

Recycling and Waste Presentation – Councilwoman Perron stated that the presentation that was discussed at the July 12^th Work Session about disposing of bulk waste, the cost of that has gone up consistently over the past five years.  Therefore, she suggested that residents think about donating items, instead of putting it out on bulk waste pickup day, so that the Village’s costs will be reduced. 

 

Arts Council – Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that the Arts Council is going to meet tomorrow and they will discuss a possible Art Fair in the fall.

 

Planning Board – Councilwoman Reynolds stated that the Planning Board met on July 6^th and had their reorganization. She reviewed the appointments and new members. The Historic Preservation Commission reviewed sign applications, which were both approved.  The application for Tasco Enterprises was held.  They discussed a five to six foot fence ordinance, for rear or side yards, which they will revisit on July 20^th.

 

Mayor Knudsen stated that several years ago, the Planning Board worked on identifying almost every type of property configuration, and they are hoping they can create a template.  She added that the Historic Preservation Commission was restructured, and they are going to be back in session in September.

 

Congressman Gottheimer – Mayor Knudsen stated that last week, Congressman Gottheimer conducted his Hometown Hero Event which is an opportunity to recognize individuals who exemplify community service and who go above and beyond what is typically seen in our community.  Feed the Frontlines was recognized as a Hometown Hero.  Dawn Cetrulo, the Director of the Ridgewood Health Department, was also recognized as a Hometown Hero for going above and beyond during the pandemic. 

 

Zoning Board of Adjustment – Mayor Knudsen stated that the Zoning Board of Adjustment had a reorganization last night and she congratulated the new appointees.

 

10. ORDINANCES – RIDGEWOOD WATER

 

1. INTRODUCTION – NONE

 

2. PUBLIC HEARING - NONE

 

11. RESOLUTIONS – RIDGEWOOD WATER

 

THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 21-207 THROUGH 21-213, WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION, NUMBERED 21-214, WAS CONSIDERED SEPARATELY AND READ IN FULL:

 

Before voting on Resolution 21-214, Councilwoman Perron stated that in this instance the Water Department is asking to purchase a Ford Escape, they did not consider a hybrid version or any electric similar vehicle.  The State has mandated all municipalities to address the causes of climate change, and the Village also has a moral obligation to the children.  She asked that the Water Department be asked to look into a hybrid or electric vehicle, so she was voting no.

 

Mayor Knudsen stated that while it is an obligation, she doesn’t think they aren’t looking at options but there is also a practical purchase for the Village’s needs.  It is possible that an electric vehicle may not satisfy the Village’s needs for its fleet.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12. ORDINANCES 

 

1. INTRODUCTION - #3868 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Establish Stop Signs – Hanks Avenue and Gordon Road at Brookside Avenue

 

Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of ordinance 3868.  Deputy Mayor Sedon seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

The Village Clerk read ordinance 3868 by title:

 

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-59, SCHEDULE IX: “STOP INTERSECTIONS”

 

Councilwoman Reynolds moved that ordinance 3868 be adopted on first reading and that August 11, 2021 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon.  Deputy Mayor Sedon seconded the motion. 

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

2. PUBLIC HEARING - #3863 – Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Daily Parking Permit Fee

 

Mayor Knudsen moved the reading of ordinance 3863 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened.  Councilwoman Perron seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

The Village Clerk read ordinance 3863 by title:

 

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 145 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, FEES, AT SECTION 145-6, “ENUMERATION OF FEES RELATING TO CODE CHAPTERS”

 

Mayor Knudsen stated that the Public Hearing was opened.  There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed.  Councilwoman Perron seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon moved that ordinance 3863 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law.  Councilwoman Perron seconded the motion. 

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

3. PUBLIC HEARING - #3864 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Establish Stop Signs – Highland Avenue and Grandview Circle at McKinley Place

 

Mayor Knudsen moved the reading of ordinance 3864 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened.  Councilwoman Perron seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

The Village Clerk read ordinance 3864 by title:

 

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-59, SCHEDULE IX: “STOP INTERSECTIONS”

 

Mayor Knudsen stated that the Public Hearing was opened.  There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed.  Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

Councilwoman Reynolds moved that ordinance 3864 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law.  Councilwoman Perron seconded the motion. 

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

4. PUBLIC HEARING - #3865 – Repeal Chapter 154 Flood Damage Prevention and Adopt New Chapter 154 Flood Management Regulations

 

Mayor Knudsen moved the reading of ordinance 3865 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened.  Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

The Village Clerk read ordinance 3865 by title:

 

AN ORDINANCE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD AMENDING THE VILLAGE CODE TO REPEAL CHAPTER 154 FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION IN ITS ENTIRETY; AND TO ADOPT A NEW CHAPTER 154 FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT REGULATIONS; TO ADOPT FLOOD HAZARD MAPS; TO DESIGNATE A FLOODPLAIN ADMINISTRATOR; AND PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE

 

Mayor Knudsen stated that the Public Hearing was opened.  There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed.  Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

Councilwoman Perron moved that ordinance 3865 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law.  Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion. 

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

5. PUBLIC HEARING - #3867 – Amend Non-Union Salary Ordinances

 

Mayor Knudsen moved the reading of ordinance 3867 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened.  Deputy Mayor Sedon seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

The Village Clerk read ordinance 3867 by title:

 

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND SALARY ORDINANCE 3619, ORDINANCE 3680, ORDINANCE 3772, ORDINANCE 3827, AND ORDINANCE 3829 FIXING THE SALARIES, WAGES AND OTHER COMPENSATION OF NON-UNION EMPLOYEES OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, COUNTY OF BERGEN, AND STATE OF NEW JERSEY

 

Mayor Knudsen stated that the Public Hearing was opened.  There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed.  Deputy Mayor Sedon seconded the motion.

 

 

 

 

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

Councilwoman Reynolds moved that ordinance 3867 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law.  Deputy Mayor Sedon seconded the motion. 

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

13. RESOLUTIONS

 

THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 21-215 THROUGH 21-240, WITH THE EXCEPTION OF RESOLUTION 21-238, WHICH WAS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT AGENDA, WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 21-238, AND 21-241 THROUGH

21-242, WERE CONSIDERED SEPARATELY AND READ IN FULL:

 

Before voting on Resolution 21-238, Councilwoman Perron stated that they have now had 60 days of experiment with these hours for pickleball, and it is not working.  The current setup deprives players of time in the beginning and end of the day.  She added that these rules impact older residents in an unfair way and they have heard from many of them during Public Comment.  She added that she would like to see the Glen pickleball courts to be opened the same hours as the tennis courts.

 

Mayor Knudsen stated that when the Village Council was presented with a plan to put pickleball courts at the Glen location, she doesn’t believe there was enough research done.  There was general information widely available that pickleball courts should be no closer than 300 to 400 feet to a residential area.  The courts are affecting residents in that area, and it is a noise issue, that isn’t easily remedied.  She thinks that this Village Council is doing its best to strike a balance between the pickleball players and the residents who live nearby.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Before voting on Resolution 21-242, Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that the first time the HealthBarn lease was considered in 2015, there was a lot going on in the Village.  Stacey Antine, the owner of HealthBarn, she improved the Gate House, worked with the Feed the Frontlines initiative, and has incredible programming for all ages.  Ms. Antine proved that she wanted to become a big part of the community, and it benefited so many of us and made Ridgewood a better place. 

 

Councilwoman Walsh agreed with Deputy Mayor Sedon.

 

Mayor Knudsen stated that the HealthBarn Foundation is not the tenant at the Gate House; instead, HealthBarn USA is the tenant, which is a business that is being conducted in a residential zone, on a public property.  She agreed that the HealthBarn Foundation has done amazing things and is worthy of acknowledgement and thanks, but the Foundation is not leasing the property. On Monday evening at the Work Session, there seemed to be some concern about a Green Acres issue, which was a surprise to her, but she asked for any documents which establish that all encumbrances had been released or waived, and she has not yet seen those documents. This property is encumbered by a Bergen County Deed of Conservation Easement which does not allow for this use.  As such, she is going to abstain, as she did not have the information she requested.  Ms. Mailander stated that she reached out to the County to get those documents.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

14. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

Rurik Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, thanked the four Village Councilmembers for doing the right thing in voting to renew the lease for HealthBarn USA at the Gate House in Habernickel Park.  He said that to separate HealthBarn Foundation from HealthBarn USA, can’t be done.  If Stacey Antine were to move out of town, the HealthBarn Foundation would no longer serve Ridgewood.  Mr. Halaby emphasized that Stacey Antine defines grace under pressure. 

 

Stacey Antine, 1057 Hillcrest Road, thanked the Village Council as COVID has been tough for everyone and she really appreciated today and that vote of confidence.  She feels very connected to the Village and feels that is reciprocated.  She is really proud of the high quality, healthy lifestyle programs that HealthBarn has offered, developed, and grown, especially with Parks and Recreation, as it has never been more important than today.  She has been welcomed by an amazing community and they have worked together, side by side, to make a difference and ease the pain of food insecurity by so many.  She is so moved and proud of the restauranteurs and drivers, and everyone involved. 

 

Ms. Antine stated that she was one person with two entities, HealthBarn Foundation and HealthBarn USA.  She thanked the Village Council and administrative staff for their support.  By supporting HealthBarn USA, believing in their mission, and voting to renew the lease, will allow them to continue to build a healthier and kinder community for the Village of Ridgewood.   

 

There were no additional comments from the Public and Mayor Knudsen closed public comment. 

 

15.         ADJOURNMENT

 

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Deputy Mayor Sedon, seconded by Councilwoman Perron, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Regular Public Meeting was adjourned at 9:43 P.M.

 

 

 

 

 

______________________________

                                                                                                    Susan Knudsen                        

                                                                                                                        Mayor            

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

_________________________________

              Heather A. Mailander

      Village Manager/Village Clerk

A REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY ON JUNE 9, 2021 AT 8:00 P.M.

 

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

 

Mayor Knudsen called the meeting to order at 8:01 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act.  At roll call the following were present: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen.  Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney. 

 

Mayor Knudsen led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag, as well as in a Moment of Silence for our men and women serving our nation, our First Responders, and for Dolores Tome who worked for the Ridgewood Fire Department’s Fire Prevention Bureau for the past 31 years.  She passed away unexpectedly this morning, just three weeks away from retirement.  They will all miss Dolores terribly and remember her fondly.

 

2. ACCEPTANCE OF FINANCIAL REPORTS

 

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Bills, Claims, and Vouchers, and Statement of Funds on Hand as of May 31, 2021, be accepted as submitted.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      Councilwoman Perron

 

3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

 

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Council minutes of February 3, 2021 and February 24, 2021 having been reviewed by the Village Council and now available in the Village Clerk’s Office, be approved as submitted.  Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

 

 

4. PROCLAMATIONS

 

1. BEE CITY USA AND NATIONAL POLLINATOR WEEK

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon read the following proclamation:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.         COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

Bob Upton, 172 West Glen Avenue, stated that concerning the sidewalks on West Glen Avenue, he is not opposed to them, he wants to understand the process of developing and approving the plans.  He is also unclear what the process is going to be in approving and executing the project.  He asked what the purpose is of the resolution tonight, relating to the West Glen sidewalks.  He asked if the residents will have a chance to present their views, and if the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee would be involved in that process.  Mr. Upton asked if he would be able to discuss the specific circumstances of his property before a decision is made.

 

Linda Scarpa, 569 Northern Parkway, stated that she wanted to address the last comment made about her statements at the last Village Council meeting on June 2, 2021.  It was stated by the Mayor that the decision was based on safety which was stressed several times.  She added that the Mayor spoke to her in March, April, and May, several times and at no time did the Mayor address Ms. Scarpa’s clear statements regarding OPRA documents or prove that their plan was better, to defund the low paid EMT and hire two Firefighters.  The Mayor said at the last meeting it was due to safety. 

 

Ms. Scarpa stated that she asked all of the EMT personnel, and they told her there was one issue with one person, two years ago, in part because the signal was too weak.  The EMT requested funds to strengthen the signal, which was denied at the time, so the EMTs used their own funds to fix it.  The fact is the one person who missed or was late for the call was discharged and no other incident has occurred at all, according to them.  She asked why they would punish all of the EMTs for this event.

 

Ms. Scarpa wondered who would continue the community service that the EMT has done for the last 40 years.  She added that they are thanked by sitting in the hot sun without pay for the Fourth of July Parade.  She added this is a bad plan for Ridgewood, but it was already approved.

 

Mahmoud Hamza, 528 Amsterdam Avenue, presented a check for $2,000 donation to the Parks and Recreation Department to plant more trees in Ridgewood.  The proceeds came from his wonderful neighbors, friends, and members of the Muslim Society of Ridgewood.  After his mother passed away due to COVID complications, they were approached by many who asked what they could do.  They thought the best way to remember his mother was to plant more trees.  He asked for one tree to be planted next to his father’s tree, with a plaque commemorating her, by the Village Hall.  The remainder of the money is to be used to plant trees in our Village Business District.  He already submitted the paperwork to the Director of the Parks and Recreation Department.  He thanked all those who kindly contributed to these funds.

 

Mayor Knudsen stated this was a beautiful gift and a beautiful tribute to his mother.  There was a round of applause.

 

Louis Delicate, 959 Barnes Drive, stated that humans are social species, and we formed communities around commonalities.  Two years ago, he discovered a commonality in the Village.  Right now there is a condition here in Ridgewood that is a vacuum that is waiting to be filled and exists because it was forced into being, by the powers that be.  The Village Council can either correct this position or direct those who can correct it.  He urged them to make it right so that Village seniors can enjoy what little time they have left to do the things they can still do, while they can still do them.  They want to be able to play pickleball on the Glen School Courts on the same schedule that is now established for the tennis courts.

 

A letter written by Jean Solomon, 648 Spring Avenue, was read.  She wrote that she was very disappointed that at last week’s Village Council meeting, the multitude of letters written by concerned residents were summarized and not read in full.  This is especially disheartening because the time for public comments at the beginning and end of the meeting was not used to its fullest extent.  Each letter represented the individual voice of the author and it felt extremely disrespectful and dismissive to those Village residents who took the time to express their views, and these residents deserve better.  That night, Nancy Bigos made the recommendation for the full restoration of the hours for pickleball to align with those of tennis. 

 

Ms. Solomon wrote that her recommendation was ignored, and to restart a discussion at this time which had been dismissed in January, regarding alternative locations and the times of pickleball play at Glen School.  Looking at alternate sites is a topic for another time.  She is hoping at this meeting that the recommendation of Ms. Bigos is accepted as submitted, and they can finally put this issue to rest.

 

There were no additional comments from the public, and Mayor Knudsen closed public comment.

 

Mayor Knudsen asked Ms. Mailander if she and Councilwoman Reynolds could speak to Mr. Upton to get the information he needs.  Ms. Mailander indicated that they would do so.

 

6.         MANAGER’S REPORT

 

Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that the Village Council’s upcoming meetings are June 23^rd, July 7^th, and July 14^th.

 

7. VILLAGE COUNCIL REPORTS

 

Green Ridgewood – Councilwoman Perron stated that Green Ridgewood met jointly with the Green Team last week and most of their meeting was taken up with Sustainable Jersey Certification.  They have the Arts Amble coming up this Friday at 5:00 P.M. on the Dunham Trail, that is sponsored by Green Ridgewood and the Bergen Arts Council.  The event is free and ends at the James Rose House.

 

Mayor Knudsen added that attendees to the Arts Amble can add $10 for tickets to have a tour of the James Rose House.  

 

Chamber of Commerce – Councilwoman Perron stated that the Chamber of Commerce met this morning, and they had their installation breakfast for the new officers of the Chamber of Commerce.  The Mayor swore in the new Board of Directors for the Chamber.  The Director of the Chamber of Commerce also gave out “Above and Beyond” awards to the whole team that worked on the Feed the Frontlines Initiative, which was a stupendous effort.  The team included Jen Williams, Jeanne Johnson, Stacey Antine, Paul Vagianos, Ramon Hache, Scott Lief, Karen Hughes, Gail Ghezzi, and Joan Groome.

 

Mayor Knudsen stated that this morning, she issued the Oath of Office to Gary Kolesaire, the owner of The Tobacco Shop of Ridgewood.  Outgoing President Scott Lief worked tirelessly during the pandemic and his leadership and enthusiasm gave many businesses owners and Village Councilmembers a lot of hope and encouragement.  She thanked him and wished the new Chamber President and members good luck in the coming year.

 

Juneteenth – Councilwoman Perron stated that Saturday, June 19^th is Juneteenth, which is a new State holiday that Governor Murphy instituted last year.  There is going to be an observance of that holiday at Overpeck Park between 12:00 P.M. and 6:00 P.M.  There is also another observance in Mahwah at the Commodore Perry Fields.

 

Pride Celebration – Councilwoman Reynolds stated that she attended the Pride Celebration on June 5^th, which was a great day.  She thanked everyone that was involved in putting it together.  Councilwoman Walsh added that the event was spectacular.

 

Mayor Knudsen added that the event was fantastic at Memorial Park at Ven Neste Square, as it was an opportunity for Village residents to share their personal experiences.  She thanked the speakers and the Village employees who helped with the event.

 

Ridgewood Water – Councilwoman Reynolds stated that yesterday at Graydon Pool, they celebrated Ridgewood Water’s 100 Year Anniversary.  She thanked Rich Calbi and Ridgewood Water, adding that Mr. Calbi has done so many positive things for Ridgewood Water and she believes he will continue to do so.

 

Senior Picnic – Councilwoman Walsh stated that she was at the Senior Picnic at Graydon on Saturday, it was a great time seeing people that they hadn’t seen in a while.

 

Sustainable Jersey – Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that the Sustainable Jersey application has been successfully submitted.  They have enough actions and compliant priority actions to be certified again at the Silver level.  He thanked the Green Team for all the help they gave to put this together.  They submitted 460 points, and the threshold is 350.  He thanked everyone who helped pull it all together, as it was a big effort.

 

Ridgewood Public Library – Mayor Knudsen stated that the Library hosted the annual ESL event virtually.  For many, the Ridgewood Public Library ESL program provides an opportunity to learn while forging new lifelong friendships.  She thanked Victoria Hilditch and Victoria Schnure, Nancy Greene, Gail Campbell, the Library Board of Trustees, the Friends of the Ridgewood Library and the Ridgewood Library Foundation for their support, as well as the tutors and the students.  There were 78 students from 18 countries, speaking 14 different native languages. 

 

On Monday evening, the Library Board of Trustees participated in a library Law program with Mr. Zucker.  He will be sharing his presentation.

 

Mayor’s Wellness Campaign – Mayor Knudsen stated that she and Dawn Cetrulo participated in the Mayor’s Wellness Campaign with Julie DiSimone. The meeting was organized as an opportunity to take a look back at the year and how the campaign was implemented, which was virtually.  The Village received $1,000 from the Wellness Campaign and have earmarked those funds to create a web app based wellness program.

 

8. ORDINANCES – RIDGEWOOD WATER

 

1. INTRODUCTION – NONE

 

2. PUBLIC HEARING - #3861 – Amend Ordinance Chapter 145 – Fees – Water Service Connection Fees

 

Mayor Knudsen moved the second reading of ordinance 3861.  Councilwoman Perron seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

The Village Clerk read ordinance 3861 by title:

 

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 145 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, FEES, AT SECTION 145-6, “ENUMERATION OF FEES RELATING TO CODE CHAPTERS”

 

Mayor Knudsen stated that due to the fact that this ordinance’s publication indicated that it would have a Public Hearing via Zoom, which is not the case, the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3861 will be continued to a Special Public Meeting to be held on June 23, 2021, beginning at 7:30 P.M.  The Public Hearing for Ordinance 3861 was advertised for this evening’s meeting, so anyone wishing to comment on this ordinance may do so at this time or wait until the June 23^rd Special Public Meeting to comment.  The Public Hearing was opened.

 

There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen closed the Public Hearing.

 

Mayor Kndusen moved the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3861 be continued to June 23, 2021.  Councilwoman Perron seconded the motion.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

9. RESOLUTIONS – RIDGEWOOD WATER

 

THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 21-145 THROUGH 21-151, WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10. ORDINANCES 

 

1. INTRODUCTION - #3863 – Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Daily Parking Permit Fee

 

Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of ordinance 3863.  Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

The Village Clerk read ordinance 3863 by title:

 

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 145 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, FEES, AT SECTION 145-6, “ENUMERATION OF FEES RELATING TO CODE CHAPTERS”

 

Councilwoman Reynolds moved that ordinance 3863 be adopted on first reading and that July 14, 2021 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon.  Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion. 

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

2. INTRODUCTION - #3864 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Establish Stop Signs – Highland Avenue and Grandview Circle at McKinley Place

 

Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of ordinance 3864.  Deputy Mayor Sedon seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

The Village Clerk read ordinance 3864 by title:

 

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-59, SCHEDULE IX: “STOP INTERSECTIONS”

 

Councilwoman Perron moved that ordinance 3864 be adopted on first reading and that July 14, 2021 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon.  Deputy Mayor Sedon seconded the motion. 

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

3. INTRODUCTION - #3865 – Repeal Chapter 154 Flood Damage Prevention and Adopt New Chapter 154 Flood Management Regulations

 

Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of ordinance 3865.  Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

The Village Clerk read ordinance 3865 by title:

 

AN ORDINANCE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD AMENDING THE VILLAGE CODE TO REPEAL CHAPTER 154 FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION IN ITS ENTIRETY; AND TO ADOPT A NEW CHAPTER 154 FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT REGULATIONS; TO ADOPT FLOOD HAZARD MAPS; TO DESIGNATE A FLOODPLAIN ADMINISTRATOR; AND PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE

 

Councilwoman Reynolds moved that ordinance 3865 be adopted on first reading and that July 14, 2021 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon.  Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion. 

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

4. INTRODUCTION - #3866 – Salary Ordinance Amendments

 

Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of ordinance 3866.  Deputy Mayor Sedon seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

The Village Clerk read ordinance 3866 by title:

 

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND SALARY ORDINANCE 3608 FIXING THE SALARIES, WAGES AND OTHER COMPENSATION FOR WHITE COLLAR EMPLOYEES; AND TO AMEND SALARY ORDINANCE 3830, FIXING SALARIES, WAGES AND OTHER COMPENSATION AND TO ESTABLISH THE “EMPLOYEE AGREEMENT” OF CERTAIN NON-UNION OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, COUNTY OF BERGEN, AND STATE OF NEW JERSEY

 

Councilwoman Walsh moved that ordinance 3866 be adopted on first reading and that June 23, 2021 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon.  Deputy Mayor Sedon seconded the motion. 

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

5. PUBLIC HEARING - #3862 – Amend Chapter 244-13, Article IV – Tobacco, Cannabis, and Electronic Vapor Substance Inhalation Shops

 

Mayor Knudsen moved the reading of ordinance 3862 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

The Village Clerk read ordinance 3862 by title:

 

AN ORDINANCE PROHIBITING THE OPERATION OF ANY CLASS OF CANNABIS BUSINESSES WITHIN ITS GEOGRAPHICAL BOUNDARIES AND AMENDING ARTICLE IV, SECTION 244-13, TOBACCO, CANNABIS, AND ELECTRONIC VAPOR SUBSTANCE INHALATION SHOPS, OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD

 

Mayor Knudsen stated that due to the fact that this ordinance’s publication indicated that it would have a Public Hearing via Zoom, which is not the case, the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3862 will be continued to a Special Public Meeting to be held on June 23, 2021, beginning at 7:30 P.M.  The Public Hearing for Ordinance 3862 was advertised for this evening’s meeting, so anyone wishing to comment on this ordinance may do so at this time or wait until the June 23^rd Special Public Meeting to comment.  The Public Hearing was opened.  There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3862 be continued to June 23, 2021.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

11. RESOLUTIONS

 

THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 21-152 THROUGH 21-192, WITH THE EXCEPTION OF RESOLUTIONS NUMBERED 21-177, WHICH WAS MOVED OFF THE CONSENT AGENDA, AND 21-186 AND 21-187, WHICH WERE REMOVED FROM THE AGENDA, WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 21-177 AND 21-193, WERE CONSIDERED SEPARATELY AND READ IN FULL:

 

Before voting on Resolution 21-177, Councilwoman Walsh stated that she thinks Mr. Rogers is a wonderful attorney and has done wonderful things for the Village, but she is objecting to the change that was made in the way that they are now going to be paying for his services and the information that is going to be coming to the Village Council on his bills.  In the past, she found something that fellow Councilmembers were doing by looking at Mr. Rogers’ bills and she finds that information to be very informative.  The fact that they are not going to have that now, unless they request it, will make it difficult for Councilmembers and the public to be able to search things that are public information.  She is voting yes for Mr. Rogers, but she is not in favor of the new process that is being put in place.

 

Mayor Knudsen acknowledged that Councilwoman Walsh’s due diligence in those documents revealed information that was concerning to her and this predates everyone here.  She thinks this is a move in the right direction, and Mr. Rogers has been an outstanding Village Attorney.  Mayor Knudsen appreciates Councilwoman Walsh’s position, but this is the best way forward for the Village.  It allows, in all likelihood, greater access to Mr. Rogers where in the past there may have been some hesitation to pursue legal advice, because it would cost the Village money.  This new process is a good way to make sure that people are comfortable reaching out to the Village Attorney and seeking appropriate legal counsel.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Before voting on Resolution 21-193, Councilwoman Perron asked for a clarification on how many tennis courts at Bellair will be converted to pickleball courts.  Mayor Knudsen stated that three pickleball courts will be created, but they are creating an overlay and not converting any courts.  Councilwoman Perron stated that when this controversy first arose in 2019, the neighbors came before the Village Council and they were saying that the sound of the pickleball play was constant.  The Village sold no badges to non-residents this year, thereby reducing the players by 173 badge holders.  Recently when she has gone to the pickleball courts at Glen, at various times of day, there are no players on the courts, so she thinks they have succeeded in giving the neighbors some respite.  She can see that starting play at 11:00 A.M. on a summer Sunday could be very hot, so she is not entirely convinced that this schedule will work out on a permanent basis.  She emphasized that she was glad to see that this was a 60 day trial period.  For that reason, she voted yes.

 

Mayor Knudsen stated that she thinks the placement of the pickleball courts is unfortunate and not appropriate, since they are one foot off of the property line of one resident and very close to other neighbors.  She agrees that there has been some break from that, but it has very much impacted the way that people use their homes and backyards, since they are unable to open their windows in the summer, due to the pickleball noise.  She thinks it is difficult for the Village Councilmembers who approved these pickleball courts at Glen School, because they thought they were doing something very positive for the community and it turns out that they hurt some people and they really grapple with that.  They are trying to strike a balance, and hope that the Bellair courts will offer a shared burden.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

Lillian Blood, 250 North Maple Avenue, stated that she has lived in town for over 50 years, and she plays both pickleball and tennis.  The pickleball noise that the neighbors are complaining about cannot be heard, as she has been there and the noise is not too loud.  They held a public open house at the pickleball courts and they had the neighbors come and play.  She mentioned that the Ridgewood pickleball players also play at Montvale, Glen Rock, and Wyckoff pickleball courts.  It is frustrating and it seems arbitrary on the part of the Village Council that tennis players can play longer hours than those playing pickleball.  She asked for one month of the same hours for pickleball, as is allowed for tennis, and the opportunity to show the Village Council that the pickleball courts would be better used, because now they aren’t being used.  Ms. Blood added that opening the Bellair courts to pickleball is nice, but having better hours for pickleball at Glen is better.

 

Joanne Rodney, 125 Maple Avenue, stated that pickleball has been fabulous and they have met so many wonderful people. What bothers her is that the pickleball players have made all the concessions, and they have ridiculous hours, when pickleball can be played at the Glen courts.  She stated that they have badges that they have to wear and there was a monitor at the pickleball courts, like they were in Kindergarten.  She asked if they check the tennis badges as well.  Non-resident pickleball players have been eliminated.  She emphasized that the pickleball players deserve the same hours as tennis players.  She added that during the pickleball demonstration play, the noise level stayed within acceptable limits, as measured by the County’s noise detection machines, and the pickleball players are still not being respected. 

 

There were no additional comments from the Public and Mayor Knudsen closed public comment. 

 

Mayor Knudsen stated that the reason they changed the days and hours of pickleball play by resolution this evening, was it would allow them to easily modify days and hours for pickleball play, going forward.  They are looking at the Bellair tennis courts being used as pickleball courts, which will provide pickleball players with additional days and hours of play.

 

Mayor Knudsen thanked everyone for attending the first in-person Village Council meeting in 15 months, which was previously held on Zoom, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

13. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION

 

Ms. Mailander read Resolution #21-194 to go into Closed Session as follows:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

14.         ADJOURNMENT

 

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Deputy Mayor Sedon, seconded by Councilwoman Perron, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Regular Public Meeting was adjourned at 9:08 P.M.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

______________________________

                                                                                                    Susan Knudsen                        

                                                                                                                       Mayor                        

 

 

 

________________________________

              Heather A. Mailander

      Village Manager/Village Clerk

A REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY ON JUNE 8, 2016 AT 8:00 P.M.

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

Mayor Aronsohn called the meeting to order at 8:03 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 A. Mailander, Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney.   

Mayor Aronsohn led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag. Mayor Aronsohn then asked for a moment of silence to honor the men and women in the United States Armed Forces who protect and defend our freedom every day, as well as those serving as first responders. 

2.           ACCEPTANCE OF FINANCIAL REPORTS

Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Bills, Claims, and Vouchers, and Statement of Funds on hand as of May 31, 2016, be accepted 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

3.           APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Mayor Aronsohn moved that the minutes of October 28, November 9, and December 2, 2015 having been reviewed by the Village Council and now available in the Village Clerk’s Office be approved as submitted.  Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion. 

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

4.           PROCLAMATIONS

There were no proclamations this evening. 

 

5.           COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

Mayor Aronsohn announced that there would now be comments from the public.   Jim Griffith, 159 South Irving Street, said he is here tonight to say good-bye to three friends, Mayor Aronsohn, Councilwoman Hauck, and Councilman Pucciarelli.  He said that they worked hard for four years, and the marks they have left in the sand from those four years are:

1.  Establishment of a financial benchmark which was outstanding and goes beyond self-discipline.  He said that they did it well, and he is very proud of them.
2. Parking was brought to the forefront.  They worked with the businesses, who described why more parking was valuable to the Central Business District (CBD).  Mr. Griffith said that he hopes that the new Village Council is able to solve the parking problem.
3. The operations of the Village were brought to the current times.  This included restructuring the Building Department; hiring a Chief Financial Officer/Parking Utility Director who operates well; and hiring a Human Resources professional. 

Mr. Griffith thanked the out-going Councilmembers for all that they accomplished over the last four years.

Dana Glazer, 61 Clinton Avenue, said that he is not convinced that Ridgewood needs a large parking garage in the CBD.  The petition for the parking garage asked that it be reduced in height from four stories to three stories.  He said that if it is one level down, there will be shovel in the ground.  He said that the wording on the ballot was only on the cost of the parking deck, at $11.5 million and the location of it, at Hudson Street.  Mr. Glazer said, don’t be fooled.  Mr. Glazer said that everyone wants the CBD to thrive, and last month, three candidates were elected to the Village Council who support a parking garage that is reduced in height. 

Lynne Algrant, CEO of the Bergen County Volunteer Center, said that she is here this evening because the Village Council will be adopting a resolution honoring the Bergen County Volunteer Center on its 50^th Anniversary.  She said that she would like to thank Ridgewood, because there are statistics that show that Ridgewood has used the services of the Bergen County Volunteer Center and that there have been volunteers from Ridgewood who have served in programs of the Bergen County Volunteer Center.  Ridgewood was also the first High School to have a Teen LEADS leadership program, which is now in another town.  She thanked Ridgewood again for its involvement with the Bergen County Volunteer Center.  Mayor Aronsohn thanked Ms. Algrant for being at the meeting this evening and for all of the good work that the Bergen County Volunteer Center does. 

Councilwoman Knudsen said that every year, when the Village Councilmembers participate in the Fourth of July parade, there are magnets on the cars giving their names and titles on the Village Council.  She said that Leigh Gilsenan and Tara Masterson, the Co-Presidents of the Fourth of July Committee, are here this evening to give the magnets to the out-going Village Councilmembers.   Leigh Gilsenan stated that she is pleased to present the official magnets, with the out-going Village Councilmembers’ names and titles on the Village Council.  Ms. Gilsenan thanked the Village Council for their service.  She also stated that the Ridgewood Fourth of July Committee does not receive funding from the Village and they rely on donations and ticket sales from the fireworks for their funding. 

Meggan Lefkowitz, 22 Sherman Place, said that Sherman Place is located off of Godwin Avenue, and part of it has a blind turn, which is a major safety issue.  The street is used for parking for the nearby medical building, and it gets very narrow with snow and leaves.  She said that there are fourteen young children living in homes on the street.  Mayor Aronsohn said that the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee has also looked at Sherman Place.

Traci Tozzi, 17 Sherman Place, said that a dead end street was opened when the medical center was built.  There is no place to park for this medical building, so they park on Sherman Place.  It is a very dangerous situation, and at times, cars have to back up in order to get down the street.

6.           VILLAGE MANAGER’S REPORT

Ms. Sonenfeld reported that there are two ordinances on tonight’s agenda which will affect the Police Department which are the salary ordinance for Police and Police Superiors and the ordinance which will increase the fee for outside jobs (where contractors use Police Officers for traffic control)  for Police Officers to $95/hour.  She explained that there is a Memorandum of Agreement between the Village and the PBA and the Police Superiors unions for a two-year contract.  The highlights of the contract include a 0% salary increase for two years; longevity is capped at 3%; sick leave is capped at $15,000 upon retirement for new hires; the salary range now has 13 steps to the top pay; and they will make contributions towards their health benefits, in accordance with State law.   Ms. Sonenfeld stated that this has contract has required lengthy negotiations, as they began in May 2015, but it was productive.  She said that the contract has an optimal balance between the Village, the Police Department, and the finances of the Village.  Based on all of these facts, she is recommending that the Village Council adopt the two ordinances this evening, as they both are part of the new Police contract.

Ms. Sonenfeld said that Bergen County has a plan to combat the Zika virus, which is carried by mosquitos, and it is named, “Bergen Bites Back”.  The Ridgewood Health, Building, and Property Maintenance employees are working together to give information to residents on how to prevent mosquitos from breeding on their property.

Ms. Sonenfeld stated that there have been a large number of homes with very high grass since the warm weather began.  She said that for lawns that are not being maintained, they will receive a first warning, and they then have three days to comply by maintaining their lawn or they will receive a summons. 

Ms. Sonenfeld reported that a resident has reported seeing a coyote during the day.  She advised everyone to be careful around wild animals.

Ms. Sonenfeld indicated that there will be detours around West Glen Avenue, due to PSE&G work. 

Ms. Sonenfeld stated that Graydon Pool has opened for the season.  As a reminder, a Graydon Pool survey was done earlier this year, and Janice Willett, from the Financial Advisory Committee, has agreed to do a financial analysis for Graydon Pool and to review the surveys that were received.  She explained that the surveys covered such areas as water quality at Graydon Pool; and bath and shower facilities.  She said that over 200 residents answered the survey.  Ms. Sonenfeld said that once the analysis of the financials have been completed this will be discussed in July with the new Village Council.

Ms. Sonenfeld stated that the Ridgewood Library Foundation is doing a program which is called, “One Village, One Book” this summer.  The concept is that everyone in the Village would read the same book, and connect through a shared reading experience.  The 2016 book is The Boys in the Boat, Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics by James Brown.  There is a paperback version, which is full text and an abridged version, for grades 5 and up.  The library will sponsor book discussion groups, activities, contests, and events from July through September, centered on this book.  She said that this program is open to everyone who lives or works in Ridgewood, and Village employees are also going to participate. 

Upcoming Events – Ms. Sonenfeld reported on the following:  At the Kasschau Shell, on June 9^th the Richard Reiter Swing Band will perform; June 10^th is the Backwoods Ridgewood High School dance to be held at Memorial Park at Van Neste Square; every Friday night in the summer, there will be music in the night at several restaurants, which is sponsored by The Ridgewood Guild; and Meet the Manager will be held on June 11^th from 9:00 a.m. to Noon in the Village Hall Court Room.

7.           VILLAGE COUNCIL REPORTS

Planning Board – Councilwoman Knudsen reported that the Planning Board met for the Housing Plan element of the Master Plan.  She said that the Planning Board has worked with the Village professionals to get this done.  On June 21, 2016 at 7:30 p.m., the Planning Board will meet to adopt the Housing Plan element of the Master Plan and to get public input.

Ridgewood Fourth of July Committee – Councilwoman Knudsen said that this is the last Village Council meeting before the Independence Day festivities.  She said that the theme this year is “America the Beautiful – Celebrating 100 Years of our National Parks”.   Fireworks tickets are available for sale in area stores.

Historic Preservation Commission – The Historic Preservation Commission did not have any applications, so their meeting was cancelled.

Ridgewood Arts Council – Councilman Pucciarelli reported that the Ridgewood Arts Council will be meeting soon.  He said that the work is visible in Village Hall, and they are also working with The Ridgewood Guild and the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce for music in the CBD. 

Ridgewood Library – Councilman Pucciarelli commented on the One Village One Book program and said that the book is about the University of Washington crew team that won the gold medal in the 1936 Berlin Olympics. 

Financial Advisory Committee (FAC) – Councilwoman Hauck said that the Financial Advisory Committee will met tomorrow evening, which is their last meeting with this Village Council.  The FAC will present their annual report in July.  As mentioned earlier by Ms. Sonenfeld, the FAC is also tabulating the results of the Graydon Pool survey and also is reviewing the Graydon Pool budget. 

Conservancy for Public Lands – Councilwoman Hauck indicated that the Conservancy for Public Lands participated in the Daffodil Festival and the Twinney Pond Park cleanup.  The lighting of Memorial Park at Van Neste Square is scheduled for October 13-19, 2016.  There will also be a butterfly sensory garden at the Irene Habernickel Family Park, which will have sight, smell, and touch areas. 

Community Center Advisory Board – Councilwoman Hauck said that a senior citizen survey was conducted, and the findings were presented and explained by Montclair State University to over 70 people yesterday.  The survey results give a snapshot of how senior citizens feel about Ridgewood.  She said that the results showed that concerning change in Ridgewood, senior citizens either like or dislike change, and there seems to be no middle ground.  The survey showed that senior citizens believe that there is safe transportation for senior citizens.  Some concerns realized in the survey were that senior citizens are concerned about the affordability of Ridgewood as they grow older and the experience loneliness as their friends move out of Ridgewood. 

Councilman Sedon said that he has nothing new to report since last week’s meeting.  He noted that on June 14^th the Ridgewood Environmental Committee will meet and the Shade Tree Commission and Citizens Safety Advisory Committee will also meet on that day. 

Parking – Mayor Aronsohn reported that there will be a Special Referendum election on June 21, 2016.  This will be the second public vote on the Hudson Street parking deck.  This is required, because the Village Council unanimously adopted a bond ordinance to fund the construction of the Hudson Street parking deck, and it was contested through a petition.  Mayor Aronsohn urged everyone to go and vote in this election.  He noted that there is a lot of information on the Village website about this election including traffic studies, a video, and a wealth of other information.   Mayor Aronsohn explained that the referendum question is about cost ($11.5 million) and location (Hudson Street) for the parking deck.  He stated that all details about the parking deck will be decided by the Village Council taking office on July 1, 2016.  He urged everyone to come and vote.

Councilwoman Knudsen said that Mayor Aronsohn indicated that the design of the parking deck will be for the new Village Council to decide, yet there is a construction management firm that has been hired for a Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) and she wondered how this will affect the process.  Ms. Sonenfeld replied that there is a contract with Barr and Barr to come up with a GMP, and they will come back to the new Village Council with the GMP.  Councilwoman Knudsen pointed out that the GMP may fall by the wayside if the new Village Council decides on a new design for the parking deck.  Ms. Sonenfeld said that it will give some idea of what the cost will be.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that after Barr and Barr has given the new Village Council with the GMP, that they will then go out to bid.  Ms. Sonenfeld said that a contract has to be awarded for Barr and Barr to bid out the project.

Councilman Pucciarelli said that Plan D for the parking deck was a compromise and was the consensus of the Village Council as the design to use.  There was a 5-0 vote in favor of the bond ordinance for the Hudson Street parking deck project.  Councilman Pucciarelli agreed with the preparatory work which was done for Plan D, and he thanked Ms. Sonenfeld for the work that she has done on the Hudson Street parking deck project. 

Councilwoman Hauck said that the parking deck saga has been so confusing to so many people.  There were so many crossroads because people were being deferential.  She said that the decision of the parking deck will now be up to the next Village Council. She emphasized that the CBD needs a parking deck, not because of multi-family housing developments or special interests, but so that businesses will thrive in the CBD.  The referendum question on June 21, 2016 is not a vote for a particular design or size for the parking deck. 

Councilman Sedon stated that there was a $120,000 change order with Desman Associates to change the design of the parking deck, and he asked what was included.  Ms. Sonenfeld said that construction documents were prepared to get the GMP for Plan D of the parking garage.  Councilman Sedon said that was after the Village already spent $500,000 to get the original parking design.  Ms. Sonenfeld said that it was $100,000 plus $500,000.  Councilman Sedon emphasized that it is his opinion that the Village spent money to get information out to the public.  If the referendum question passes, then he will not change the design of the parking deck again.  If you like the parking garage as the design stands now, then vote in favor of the referendum.  Otherwise, wonder if it could have been made smaller.  Ms. Sonenfeld that with the money already spent, there were things done, which would have been done anyway, such as a financial analysis. 

Councilman Pucciarelli stated that he disagrees with Councilman Sedon.  He said that residents can vote yes for the referendum question but that will not lock in Design D for the parking deck.  The referendum question is a vote on the adoption of a bond ordinance which was adopted by the Village Council 5-0.  He said that if no one votes on the referendum question, then the new Village Council could think that the residents don’t want a parking garage at all. 

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that everyone knows how they feel about Hudson Street.  She said that voters should have the facts, and everyone needs to share those facts.  She said she would like to move forward.  The referendum question is for the money for the parking garage, and if the money is approved by the voters, then the new Village Council will decide on the design. 

Mayor Aronsohn said that the vote on June 21, 2016 is for the adoption of the bond ordinance, which all five of the Village Councilmembers supported.  He emphasized that the vote is on the cost ($11.5 million) and the location (Hudson Street) for the parking deck and nothing else.

8.           ORDINANCES

Mayor Aronsohn stated that there are no ordinances for introduction this evening, and the Public Hearings on ordinances would now take place.

a.           Public Hearing - #3534 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Brookside Avenue Parking Restrictions

Mayor Aronsohn moved the Clerk read Ordinance 3534 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened.  Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

The Clerk read Ordinance 3534 by title:

              AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF              RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-67, SCHEDULE XVII

              “PARKING PROHIBITED CERTAIN HOURS” AND SECTION 265-69, SCHEDULE

              XIX “TIME LIMIT PARKING”

 

Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was open.  There were no comments from the public and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3534 be closed.  Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion. 

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

Councilman Sedon moved that ordinance 3534 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law.  Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

b.           Public Hearing - #3535 – Bond Ordinance – General Capital Ordinance ($4,519,975)

Mayor Aronsohn moved the Clerk read Ordinance 3535 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened.  Councilwoman Hauck seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

The Clerk read Ordinance 3535 by title:

BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR VARIOUS CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS IN THE

VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY APPROPRIATING

$4,519,975 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $4,293,000 BONDS

OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE PART OF THE COST THEREOF

 

Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was open.  There were no comments from the public and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3535 be closed.  Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion. 

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

Councilwoman Knudsen moved that ordinance 3535 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law.  Councilwoman Hauck seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

c.           Public Hearing - #3536 – Bond Ordinance – Water Utility Capital ($4,655,000)

Mayor Aronsohn moved the Clerk read Ordinance 3536 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened.  Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

The Clerk read Ordinance 3536 by title:

               

BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR VARIOUS WATER UTILITY IMPROVEMENTS

IN AND BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW

JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $4,655,000 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE

OF $4,655,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE PART OF THE

COST THEREOF

 

Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was open.  There were no comments from the public and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3536 be closed.  Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion. 

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

Councilman Pucciarelli moved that ordinance 3536 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law.  Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

Prior to the votes on Ordinance 3537 and Ordinance 3538, Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she would be recusing herself from these votes because her sons are on the Civil Service certification list for the title of Police Officer.

d.           Public Hearing - #3537 – Police Department Salary Ordinance

Mayor Aronsohn moved the Clerk read Ordinance 3537 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened.  Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                   Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

RECUSE:              Councilwoman Knudsen

 

The Clerk read Ordinance 3537 by title:

 

AN ORDINANCE TO FIX SALARIES, WAGES AND OTHER COMPENSATION OF AND FOR

POLICE OFFICERS AND POLICE SUPERIOR OFFICERS OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD,

COUNTY OF BERGEN AND STATE OF NEW JERSEY

 

Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was open.  There were no comments from the public and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3537 be closed.  Councilman Sedon seconded the motion. 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                   Councilmembers Hauck, Sedon, Pucciarelli and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

RECUSE:              Councilwoman Knudsen

 

Councilwoman Hauck moved that ordinance 3537 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law.  Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

RECUSE:              Councilwoman Knudsen

e.           Public Hearing - #3538 – Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Police Officer Fees on Outside Jobs

Mayor Aronsohn moved the Clerk read Ordinance 3538 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened.  Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                   Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

RECUSE:              Councilwoman Knudsen

The Clerk read Ordinance 3538 by title:

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND SECTON 145-4 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF

RIDGEWOOD ENTITLED “DEPARTMENTAL FEES” AS IT PERTAIN TO THE

DEPARTMENTS OF FIRE AND POLICE

 

 

Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was open.  There were no comments from the public and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3538 be closed.  Councilman Sedon seconded the motion. 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                   Councilmembers Hauck, Sedon, Pucciarelli and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

RECUSE:              Councilwoman Knudsen

Councilman Pucciarelli moved that ordinance 3538 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law.  Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                   Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

RECUSE:              Councilwoman Knudsen

f.            Public Hearing - #3539 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Pomander Walk Parking Restrictions and U-Turn Prohibition

Mayor Aronsohn moved the Clerk read Ordinance 3539 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened.  Councilwoman Hauck seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

The Clerk read Ordinance 3539 by title:

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD,

VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-55, SCHEDULE V “U TURN PROHIBITIONS” AND

SECTION 265-67, SCHEDULE XVII “PARKING PROHIBITED CERTAIN HOURS” AND SECTION

265-69, SCHEDULE XIX “TIME LIMIT PARKING”

 

Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was open.  Bridget Kong, 69 Sherman Place, said that if the Village Council adopts this ordinance, to prohibit parking on Pomander Walk, the cars will park on Sherman Place, which will be horrible.  She stated that there could be tick marks placed on Pomander Walk so that cars don’t park too close to driveways.  She urged the Village Council to deny the ordinance change.  She said that she wants a safety study done on Sherman Place.  She indicated that a two-hour parking limitation should work on Pomander Walk.  She explained that the residents on Pomander Walk will require on-street parking for contractors or guests and these cars will park on Sherman Place.  Ms. Kong concluded by saying that she does not want the displaced cars from Pomander Walk parking on Sherman Place.

Peter Quinn, 66 Pomander Walk, said that this parking prohibition has been in process for two years.  The neighborhood went to the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee.  Mr. Quinn emphasized that this is a safety hazard for the residents on Pomander Walk.  He explained that Pomander Walk is a small, dead end street and there are sixteen houses on it.  Cars turn around in their dead end all the time. He pointed out that two weeks ago, a vehicle on the street had to back up all the way down the street.  He said that ticketing does not stop the cars that exceed the time limit parking on Pomander Walk.  Cars are parked up to the end of the street, which makes it difficult for residents to pull out of their driveways. He said that he does not want to confuse CBD parking with residential parking.  Mr. Quinn stated that part of the business plan for the stores in the strip mall on Godwin Avenue, next to Pomander Walk, is for their overflow customers and their delivery cars to park on Pomander Walk.  Mr. Quinn concluded by saying that he has three young children, and most neighbors park their cars all the way out to the sidewalks to prevent cars from parking on the street and blocking them in.  He said that if the Police have to keep coming to enforce the time limit parking, then it is not effective.

Chris Reid, 112 Stanley Place, said that Stanley Place is off of Sherman Place and they have met with the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee.  He does not want the parking problem pushed off onto Stanley Place.  He pointed out that the entire Village has a parking problem and stated that the Police Department should give out more tickets for parking violations. He explained that if the law is not followed, then it is a police situation, and that includes speeding cars.  Mr. Reid suggested that an overall solution be found for the parking problems.

Kathryn Quinn, 52 Pomander Walk, emphasized that this is a safety issue.  Pomander Walk is a narrow cul-de-sac with eleven children who live there and another fourteen children who visit.  Over 30% of the residents on Pomander Walk have lived there for over 25 years.  Those parking on the street turn around in their driveways and park too close to the driveways.  The two-hour parking limit on Pomander Walk is not enforced.  The businesses in the strip mall on Godwin Avenue said that the tickets they pay are the cost of doing business.  The pizza business uses Pomander Walk as a place to stage their delivery cars.  Ms. Quinn said that they support the businesses, and they want them to be successful.  She emphasized that the businesses are not respectful to Pomander Walk residents, and they are unique because they are a cul-de-sac.  She said that if the parking prohibition on Pomander Walk is approved, then there will be parking problems on surrounding streets from these businesses. 

Alyson McCormack, 51 Sherman Place, asked the Village Council to vote against this ordinance.  She said that in order to eliminate the parking on Pomander Walk, the whole area needs to be studied first.  She suggested that there be one side of the street parking for the whole area and paint tick marks for all of the driveways. 

Adam Fox, 112 Stanley Place, said that his street has the same safety issues as Pomander Walk.  All of the parking from Pomander Walk will end up on Sherman Place and Stanley Place.  The Citizens Safety Advisory Committee is doing a study of the entire area.

Chris Lewer, the owner of Santoni’s Pizza at 88 Godwin Avenue, said that as a future parent, he also has safety concerns for children.  He asked that there not be a parking ban on Pomander Walk.  There is a huge parking problem, but he promised to work with the neighbors on Pomander Walk in order to find a solution.  He will stop the delivery cars from turning around in their driveways.  He said that he does not support this ordinance.

Peter Quinn, 66 Pomander Walk, said that an empty horse trailer ended up on Pomander Walk and had to back out with the help of a Police Officer.  Mr. Quinn stated that he shares the concerns of Sherman Place, and he is not trying to put a burden on them.  There is a parking problem and right now the incremental solution is to fix the problem on Pomander Walk. 

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that the Village Council does not want to solve the problem on Pomander Walk with a sledgehammer and she asked Mr. Quinn where his guests and service providers will park when they come to his house.  Mr. Quinn replied that it will be a burden for those who live on Pomander Walk, because they will not be able to park on their own street.  Mr. Quinn said that they would probably use neighbor’s driveways for guests and service providers.  He said that although the neighborhood appreciates the extra Police Officer on Pomander Walk, who have been issuing overtime parking tickets, it does not deter those who do so from doing it again.  Mr. Quinn said that Pomander Walk residents just want some relief.

Councilman Pucciarelli asked if the Pomander Walk neighbors have spoken with the owner of the strip mall on Godwin Avenue.  Mr. Quinn said that the only conversation he had with the owner of the strip mall was about the dumpster.  The problem is not with the owner, but rather the tenants of the strip mall.  Councilman Pucciarelli said that the owner could enforce the lease provisions.  Mr. Quinn pointed out that Whole Foods employees also park on Pomander Walk all day.  Councilman Pucciarelli pointed out that it is not illegal to park a car on a public street.  Mr. Quinn said that it is not illegal, but it is a health and safety hazard for those living on Pomander Walk. 

Councilman Pucciarelli said that the lease for the stores in the strip mall may have included Pomander Walk as an area where they could park.  Mr. Quinn said that when the strip mall was built, the businesses at that time did not need as many parking spaces as do the businesses that are there now. Councilman Pucciarelli pointed out that during the day, there is no public parking on the west side of the CBD, and there is inadequate on-site parking at the strip mall.  Mr. Quinn said that he does not know of any other business that uses a residential street for parking for their business.    

Councilwoman Knudsen said that she looked for the deed restrictions on this property, and nothing is there.  She said that she has been on Pomander Walk and the delivery vehicles go down to the end of the cul-de-sac and loop around to turn around.  She said that it is like a raceway.  However, the manager of the pizza place did say that he would speak with the delivery people about being cautious and safe.

Councilwoman Knudsen again asked where the guests and service people will park for all of those homes on Pomander Walk.  She said that if people who park on Pomander Walk now are ignoring the two-hour time limit signs, then they could also ignore the No Parking signs.  Mr. Quinn said he realizes that Village residents want to be able to park on Village streets. 

Kathryn Quinn, 52 Pomander Walk, pointed out that Washington Place has a parking lot.  Ms. Sonenfeld said that there are also parking spaces near MacMurphy’s restaurant, across from Smoked, adjacent to the train station parking lot.  Ms. Quinn said that many of the workers at the strip mall park on Pomander Walk.  She stated that the neighbors tried to work with the pizza place, but they are worried about the safety of the children on the street and they are trying to prevent an accident. 

Traci Tozzi, 17 Sherman Place, said that they also get U-Turns on their street, and it is done three times as often.  She explained that they are inundated on Sherman Place, because it is coming from all directions. 

Chris Lewer, the manager of Santoni’s Pizza, said that all parents are concerned about the children’s safety.  He pointed out that the parents have to also take some responsibility and teach their children not to play near the street.  Mr. Lewer said that Whole Foods has overflow parking on Pomander Walk also, so it is not just his customers who are parking there.  He said that customers are allowed to overflow park onto public streets.  If parking is prohibited around that area, then all of the businesses in the area will be strangled.  Mr. Lewer again said that he would educate his employees and would talk to continue to talk to them about safety and being courteous to the neighborhood.  He also offered to speak with the residents.  He emphasized that everyone is concerned about the children’s safety.

Meggan Lefkowitz, 22 Sherman Place, said that this is not about parking, it is about safety.  The children are the most important issue.  When they call the Police to come, they say it is a disaster waiting to happen.  She emphasized that the most important thing is the safety of the children. 

There were no further comments from the public and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance 3539 be closed.  Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion. 

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:                  None

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

Councilman Sedon moved that ordinance 3539 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law.  Councilwoman Hauck seconded the motion.

Prior to the vote on ordinance 3539, there was discussion.  Councilman Sedon said that the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee, the Police Department and the Engineering Department are looking at Stanley Place and Sherman Place.  The results will be available in either June or July.  If nothing is done, then there will be no relief for the residents on Pomander Walk.  He said that he supports the parking ban on Pomander Walk and if this create parking issues on other streets, then the Village Council can revisit this decision.  The Citizens Safety Advisory Committee recommended adopting the parking ban on Pomander Walk in conjunction with looking at the whole area.  He said that perhaps there could be a change to allow parking on only one side of the streets in that area. 

Councilwoman Hauck said that she believes that safety is a concern and she does not want to restrict the businesses.  She would like to see this be a positive experience and have everyone come together.  There is an issue on Pomander Walk because it is a dead end.  Councilwoman Hauck noted that there are several precedents for have no parking on either side of the street, such as near many of the schools; on Clinton Avenue; in commuter areas, like Upper Boulevard; and on narrow, dangerous roads such as Cottage Place.  She said that the safety and welfare of the people is important and if this solution doesn’t work, then a new solution can be found.  Councilwoman Hauck pointed out that the parking ban on Pomander Walk has been studied for a long time, and the situation is getting worse.  She said that everyone should support each other.  She concluded by stating that she is proud to live in Ridgewood.

Councilman Pucciarelli said that it is great to have reasonable people.  In this case, there are competing interests, and one of them is a business interest.  He does not want to study this any longer.  He agrees that safety trumps all.  He said that he does not want to go to the extreme of having a parking ban on Pomander Walk; instead, he would like to start with parking on one side of the street only, and eliminate the parking on the west side of the street.  The neighbors and the business can then see how well that works, and then can evaluate whether something further needs to be done.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she agrees with Councilman Pucciarelli.  Removing all of the parking on Pomander Walk will create its own problems.  She said that she believes it can be resolved with one side of the street parking and enforcement by the Police Department for the two-hour time limit.  Councilwoman Knudsen indicated that if the speeding continues, perhaps speed bumps should be looked into, like the one on South Broad Street.  She also stated that the fines for violating the two-hour parking restriction should be increased, because then it will be too expensive to add it in as a cost of doing business.   Councilwoman Knudsen said that everyone says there is a problem, from Ms. Quinn to the neighbors on Stanley Place and Sherman Place, to the manager of the pizza place.  She thinks it can be worked out.

Mayor Aronsohn explained that he has been involved with this request for a few years.  It went to the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee quite some time ago.  He said that it was a problem then, and it continues to be a problem. Mayor Aronsohn said on the Friday of Memorial Day weekend, he spent an hour on Pomander Walk, from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. to observe what was going on.  He said that he saw that the cars of four employees of the strip mall were parked on Pomander Walk, right at the corners, which is a violation.  He also saw parking issues on Stanley Place and Sherman Place.  At this time, Mayor Aronsohn emphasized that there needs to be relief for Pomander Walk, which has been recommended by the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee.  He said that the next Village Council can discuss what can be done to solve the parking issues on Sherman Place and Stanley Place. 

There being no further discussion by the Village Council, Mayor Aronsohn called for the vote on ordinance 3539.

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                   Councilmembers Hauck, Sedon and Mayor Aronsohn

NAYS:                  Councilmembers Knudsen and Pucciarelli

ABSENT:             None

ABSTAIN:            None

9.           RESOLUTIONS

THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 16-147 THROUGH 16-177WERE CONSIDERED ON A CONSENT AGENDA, WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10.         COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

Mayor Aronsohn announced that there would now be comments from the public.  Leonard Eisen, 762 Upper Boulevard, thanked the current Village Council for working so hard and for all that they did for the Village.

Paul Vagianos, 280 Rivera Court, asked if he is correct that if the parking referendum passes, this Village Council will not take any action on the Hudson Street parking deck, and it will be left up to the new Village Council.  He reiterated that under no circumstances will this Village Council make a decision on the Hudson Street parking deck.

Mayor Aronsohn replied that the current Village Council will not be able to take any action on the Hudson Street parking deck if the referendum passes.  Mr. Vagianos said that he wants to confirm again that there is absolutely no way that the current Village Council will take any action on the Hudson Street parking deck.  Mr. Vagianos emphasized that the word absolutely is critical.  Mayor Aronsohn replied that there are no plans for this Village Council to take action on the Hudson Street parking deck, and he encouraged people to vote on June 21, 2016.

Councilwoman Hauck said that the current Village Council has laid some great groundwork for the future.  She pointed out that all five of the current Councilmembers voted to adopt the bond ordinance to build the Hudson Street parking deck.  She said that her time on the Village Council is over, but she will be voting on June 21, 2016.

Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, said that people should vote no on the referendum, because they will not approve the $11.5 million.  The new Village Council may decide on a smaller version of the parking deck that will not cost $11.5 million. 

Ms. Loving said that she would like dogs to be allowed in Village parks.  If they don’t pick up after their dogs, then they can be issued tickets.   Councilman Pucciarelli said that this Village Council cannot change an ordinance now, so it will have to go to the new Village Council.  Ms. Sonenfeld said that she saw a document where the Parks, Recreation, and Conservation Board voted 6-1 against allowing dogs in Village parks.  She said that she has asked Dawn Cetrulo, Supervisor of the Health Department, to look at the pros and cons of allowing dogs in Village parks.  Ms. Sonenfeld said that once the facts and data are available, then it will be discussed.  Councilwoman Knudsen said that the next Village Council will discuss this matter.  Ms. Loving hoped that this would move as quickly as the relaxing of enforcement for the A-frame signs in the CBD.

Saurabh Dani, 390 Bedford Terrace, is concerned that if the referendum passes, the current Village Council will try to do something to start the construction on the Hudson Street parking deck during their last nine days in office.  Mayor Aronsohn said that the current Village Council would not behave that way.  Ms. Sonenfeld said that the Village cannot just go and issue a bond, it is a process.  Councilwoman Knudsen said that if the referendum passes on June 21, 2016, then a Special Public Meeting could be convened to issue a bond for the Hudson Street parking deck.  Mr. Rogers said that nine days is not enough time to do so.  Ms. Sonenfeld said that the referendum is up to $11.5 million, which does not mean that $11.5 million will be spent. 

Councilwoman asked about the GMP for the project and when it will be available.  Ms. Sonenfeld replied that Barr and Barr has indicated that it will take five to six weeks. 

Mr. Dani said that it has been said that the referendum is a binding election, and he asked if it passes, is the new Village Council bound to that dollar amount and the Hudson Street location.  If that is the case, then the new Village Council will not be able to relocate the parking deck to another location nor will they be able to build several smaller parking decks.

Councilman Pucciarelli said that if the referendum passes, it is another tool in place for the new Village Council.  The new Village Council can either decide to move forward with building the parking deck on Hudson Street or they can decide to build nothing. 

Claude Bienstock, 39-11 B Broadway, Fair Lawn, NJ, said that Ridgewood has a parking problem.  The new Village Council will have some hard decisions to make, and their number one concern should be public safety.  He said that he wishes everyone the best.  He pointed out that not every decision that the Village Council makes will have 100% approval.  He also pointed out that too much noise or traffic will affect property values.  He concluded by stating that the Village Council should do what is in the best interests of the people and he likes to see problems get solved.

Lorraine Reynolds, 550 Wyndemere Avenue, wondered why the referendum election is being held before July 1^st if the new Village Council will decide on the size of the parking garage and the design.  She said that this come down to a matter of trust.  The public has felt that they have had no input into the design of the parking garage, so she urged residents to vote down the referendum. 

Ms. Reynolds said that other options should also be explored such as making the side streets in Ridgewood one-way streets to create extra parking spots.  She said that the majority of residents trust that the new Village Council will come up with an overall plan with a parking garage and other improvements to solve the parking problem in the CBD.  She said don’t be fooled by a referendum question again, and vote the referendum down so that the new Village Council can listen to everybody and create an overall parking solution. 

Councilman Pucciarelli pointed out that the design D of the Hudson Street parking deck was decided after the referendum question at the November General Election passed.  He also said that it was discussed fully. 

Councilwoman Hauck said that she is offended by these comments, said that this Village Council has given the residents time to give their input into the design of the parking deck on Hudson Street, and the compromises have been frequent.  She said that the Village Council meetings on this matter have been exhausting and thorough.  She said that the discourse which has taken place at Village Council meetings is not encouraging for residents to enjoy the process the way they should. 

Councilwoman Hauck pointed out that a portion of the public was tenacious in getting control of the issue, from the Village Council, because a group of petitioners wanted to overturn two ordinances adopted by the Village Council. The Village conceded control to the residents by allowing for transparency and input multiple times on the design of the parking deck.  In doing so, the residents did not let the Village Council fully adopt the bond ordinance for the construction of the parking deck, which was adopted unanimously, because they successfully submitted a petition to stop the funding from that bond ordinance from being effective.  Councilwoman Hauck said that now it is up to the public whether or not the funding for the parking deck on Hudson Street will become effective.  She said that the public has not been gracious in their treatment of the Village Council when the Village Council has allowed for public input throughout the process.

Melanie Hooban, 431 Bogert Avenue, asked if it was the tenacious, small group of people who loudly spoke at the May 10^th Municipal Election when they elected the three people to the Village Council that Councilwoman Hauck did not endorse.  Councilwoman Hauck said that she is not speaking about the election at all, she is speaking about the parking deck and its funding.  Everyone needs to respect each other’s views.

Councilwoman Knudsen said that when she was elected to the Village Council two years ago, it was exciting, but she never could have anticipated the amount of work that was required.  She said that the Village Councilmembers spend a great deal of time between the various Boards and Committees they serve on as liaisons as well as Village Council meetings.  She noted that yesterday, she sat in on Councilwoman Hauck’s senior citizen assessment survey, which took a great amount of work.  Councilwoman Knudsen emphasized that the regardless of how people feel about the parking deck, what can never be ignored is the great amount of work that the Village Councilmembers have put in, can never be ignored.  She thanked Mayor Aronsohn, Councilwoman Hauck, and Councilman Pucciarelli for their service to the community.

11.         ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Sedon, seconded by Councilman Pucciarelli, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 10:40 P.M. 

 

                            

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 _________________________________                                                                                                                                      Paul S. Aronsohn                                                                                                                                                                      Mayor

 

 

 

_________________________________                                                                                                                                 Heather A. Mailander                                                                                                                                                           Village Clerk

 

 

 

A REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD VIA ZOOM, DUE TO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC, ON JUNE 10, 2020 AT 8:00 P.M.

 

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

 

Mayor Hache called the meeting to order at 8:00 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act.  At roll call the following were present: Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache.  Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney. 

 

Mayor Hache led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag as well as in a Moment of Silence to honor the brave men and women serving in our armed forces, all our First Responders, and all those who have been impacted and are fighting on the frontlines of COVID-19.

 

2. ACCEPTANCE OF FINANCIAL REPORTS

 

Mayor Hache moved the Bills, Claims, and Vouchers, and Statement of Funds on Hand as of May 31, 2020, be accepted as submitted.  Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

 

Mayor Hache moved the Village Council minutes of May 22, June 25, October 23, November 6, and December 4, 2019 and January 8, February 5, March 2, and April 1, 2020 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 Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

 

 

 

 

4. PROCLAMATIONS

 

1. BEE CITY USA AND NATIONAL POLLINATOR WEEK

 

Councilwoman Walsh read the following proclamation:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5. PRESENTATION OF AWARD WINNERS FOR COMPLETE COUNT COMMITTEE FOR CENSUS 2020 ESSAY CONTEST – 1ST PLACE – BRANDON LEE; 2^ND PLACE – THEODORE MOLL; 3^RD PLACE – AIKO SCHINASI

 

Mayor Hache stated that this was a very special presentation tonight.  The 2020 US Census launched on April 1^st, and there was a lot of coordination prior to that.  In the end of 2019, he was contacted by the Census Bureau and they spoke about how the Village was undercounted by 30% in the 2010 census.  This time around, the Census Bureau recommended the creation of a Complete Count Committee to ensure that Ridgewood has higher participation, by creating a broader reach and getting more participants in the census.

 

Mayor Hache stated that the Complete Count Committee was himself, Ms. Mailander, Ridgewood Public Schools, Federated HSA, members of Ridgewood Public Library, members of Age Friendly Ridgewood, the YMCA, US Census Bureau, and the League of Women Voters of Ridgewood.  Tonight, Anne Burton Walsh, Census Committee Chair for the League of Women Voters, is present at this meeting.  He added that one of the ideas was that the Complete Count Committee would sponsor an essay contest for high school students.  They had 6 essays that were finalists, and they ended up with first, second, and third place winners. 

 

Mayor Hache stated that Brandon Lee was the winner of the contest.  Ms. Walsh stated that they received 46 submissions and their process was that they redacted names and assigned a number.  The League of Women Voters then narrowed the pool down to 12 essays.  The Complete Count Committee then went through the 12 essays and selected the winner, and 6 for Honorable Mention.  Theodore Moll placed second and Aiko Schinasi placed third.  They increased the census response just by preparing the essays, and she thinks that more people will participate in the Census once these essays are published.  She congratulated the students on their essays, as they were well-researched and they are seeking to have them published through NorthJersey.com/ RidgewoodNews.

 

Mayor Hache stated that when they started the essay contest, Ridgewood was in the 60% response to the Census, and now Ridgewood is at a 78.5% response rate.  He likes the idea that they sent the essays out to the Complete Count Committee for judging without names and by number, and he was so impressed by the quality of the writing, the thoughtfulness, and how they grasped the importance of the Census.  He thanked the students and all participants who submitted their essays.  Brandon Lee thanked the Committee for the opportunity, adding that it was a great opportunity to dig into what Ridgewood really is. Aiko Schinasi stated that she agreed with everything that Brandon said, and it got her talking to her parents about what the Census is, and she thanked them for the opportunity.  Mayor Hache thanked Ms. Walsh for taking the lead on this, and for all that she has done with the Complete Count Committee.

 

Ms. Mailander asked if there was an update on the school participation.  Ms. Walsh stated that Superintendent Dan Fishbein launched a contest among all nine Ridgewood Schools to see who would have the highest participation in filling out the Census, which increased participation.  Councilwoman Knudsen congratulated the students and applauded their efforts.

 

 

6. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

Josh Oliveira, 626 Frederick Street, stated that regarding the Board of Education budget he was happy to hear that programming would not be affected at the schools, due to the latest BOE budget reduction.  It was disconcerting when the proposed budget cut totaled $1 million, due to the $600,000 local cut and $400,000 State Aid cut, and he was glad they were able to identify areas that wouldn’t impact programming.  He added that he doesn’t think this is the time to consider a $500,000 bathroom renovation project or a $600,000 turf field maintenance.  Mr. Oliveira stated that the Village’s budget deficit has been a focal point of recent conversation and the Village’s tax levy related to education expenses has been rising.  Mr. Oliveira asked the Village Council if there are any other opportunities to reduce unnecessary and non-essential expenses from the Board of Education’s budget. 

 

Mr. Oliveira stated that regarding Graydon Pool, a $50,000 loss for the Village was discussed, and his understanding with the information that was made public was that amount was calculated with seasonal passes not being offered.  He also added that he understood there was no understanding of capacity limits at the time that the estimate was created.  It seemed like the Village Council was in agreement that the amount of loss would be greater than $50,000.  Mr. Oliveira added that he wants the pool to open and it is a great sign of returning to normal; however, the new normal will really impact the taxpayers in the long term, and the Village needs to consider other revenue opportunities.  He asked the Village Council what other revenue opportunities they were seeking as well as an updated estimate of this year’s Graydon Pool losses.

 

Mr. Oliveira stated that last week, he provided some benefits related to privatizing garbage collection, and given the benefits he explained, he asked the Village Council if they should research private garbage collection.  He asked the Village Council if they happened to have an update on that topic.

 

Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that she wanted to thank the Village Council for pushing forward on Graydon Pool.  She was there this week and saw a lot of work going on.  They received Mayor Hache’s reverse 911 recorded call, where he mentioned progress on the pool.  She stated that the Governor released new, looser guidelines yesterday.  She tried to determine what the official capacity for Graydon is, and she learned that it had never been set.  She added that with the vast size of that complex, it seems to her that they are probably not going to need half day sessions anymore, now that they are allowed to have 50% of whatever the capacity is. 

 

Ms. Loving added that she thinks that the rate for the half day sessions was making the price seem very high.  She pointed out that people were talking on social media that for a family of four or five buying passes and then only going for half the day, it was really getting quite pricey.  She added that it would also be important to broadcast the capacity at Graydon Pool, as soon as it is figured out what it is.  She is estimating that the half capacity will likely be more than Graydon has ever seen, even on a good day.  Ms. Loving added that she was hoping that Ms. Bigos was also able to arrange the food, as she was happy last week that they were thinking about getting local restaurants to help supply food.  She thanked the Village Council for pushing ahead, as opening Graydon Pool is truly a gift to residents at this time.

 

Irene Bressler, 60 East Ridgewood Avenue, stated that she was wondering if landlords had expressed interest in procuring a certain number of spaces in the parking garage on their own.  She added that she has five apartments, and thinks it would be nice if she had five spots that she could offer to her tenants in the parking garage.

 

There were no additional public comments, and Mayor Hache closed public comment.

 

Councilman Voigt stated that regarding losing money on Graydon this summer, Mr. Rooney had done some analysis and based on those numbers, it looks like they will probably lose this year about $100,000.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that not everyone had the opportunity to review that information, and as things appear to be changing quite rapidly with the Governor’s changing Executive Orders, there is a greater likelihood with the continued sale of the regular seasonal passes that they won’t be losing anything.  She added that she is more optimistic and it has been a terrific effort at Graydon.  Regarding capacity, it is probably going to be quite greater than the largest number of attendees at Graydon, so she was excited about that.

 

Mayor Hache stated that regarding Graydon Pool, there is a lot of focus on revenue generation and profit and loss, but first and foremost Graydon is a Village park, and an amenity.  It happens to be one that also generates revenue, as opposed to the other parks.  The importance is that this is an amenity that the community can enjoy.  Thankfully, they were able to get the guidance on the reopening of municipal pools sooner rather than later, and they should be ready to open the week of June 22^nd.

 

Councilman Voigt stated that he was in favor of opening Graydon Pool, but he wanted to make sure that they were transparent with residents about the amount of money the Village is going to lose by doing so.

 

Mayor Hache asked Ms. Mailander if there was any update on the garbage collection research that was mentioned last week.  Ms. Mailander stated that there is no update at this time, and she would have to know if the Village Council wants to pursue private garbage collection, because the Village usually has rear yard garbage pickup, and that is an additional cost for a private handler.  Based on what she has heard from some of her colleagues in northwest Bergen County, some of those that do not have their own garbage pickup are actually changing over from having private carters and haulers, to having it picked up by the town.  They are going more to the one armed bandit vehicle, because it is one person per truck.  It is a big upfront cost, but once it is operating, there is less cost because there is less personnel who are less likely to have injuries.  She stated that she may put it onto a Council agenda after July 1^st, when the new Village Council settles.  She added that the carters have their own territory, and usually her colleagues only get one bid, so it is not really a competitive environment.  Mayor Hache stated that in his discussions with other municipalities that have made the change to the one armed bandit vehicle, there are saving money associated with the fewer workers compensation claims, which is a benefit.

 

Mayor Hache stated that regarding the parking allocation for the overnight parking, Councilwoman Walsh gave a wonderful explanation this morning to the Chamber of Commerce.  Councilwoman Walsh stated that she thinks the question was regarding overnight parking.  They are going to have a daily fee to reserve a parking meter or designated parking stall at $20 per day and then an overnight parking permit at a cost of $75 for three months or $150 for six months.

 

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she had a number of senior citizens asking about rear yard pickup, as it is one of those amenities that makes Ridgewood comfortable to age in place.  They were asking when that service would be restored.  Ms. Mailander stated that it would be restored on July 13^th.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that the question about overnight parking for tenants that Irene Bressler raised, in her email she indicated that she had expressed an interest in having spaces allocated completely for the use of her tenants.  

 

Mayor Hache stated that regarding the parking, last year they had talked about commercial property owners being able to purchase commuter passes and that is something that the Village Council approved, which can be used daily.  Ms. Mailander added that is a continuation of what they currently have in place.

 

7. MANAGER’S REPORT

 

Ms. Mailander stated that Governor issued Executive Orders on non-essential retail businesses, outdoor dining, and barbershops and hair salons.  On June 15^th non-essential retail businesses may be open inside on a limited basis, and outdoor dining at restaurants and food places may take place with proper social distancing guidelines.  In addition, on June 22^nd, barbershops, hair salons, and nail salons may open and they must abide by the Governor’s guidelines.

 

Ms. Mailander stated that parking meters will go into effect on June 15, 2020.

 

Ms. Mailander stated that tennis and pickleball reservations can be done through CommunityPass.  This will allow there to be social distancing.  An email has gone out to all past and present players to inform them of the process to use, to reserve a court time.

 

Ms. Mailander stated that Graydon Pool will be opening and the Parks and Recreation Department has been working diligently to get the pool ready for another wonderful summer.  She added that she is pleased to let everyone know that the concession stand will be open, with the usual vendor.  They went back to the current vendor and negotiated a different rate, but he is still paying the Village to be able to provide the concession.  Seasonal passes will be sold, and she will have an update next week about the hours and the day passes versus the seasonal passes.  She will also have more information from Ms. Bigos, Director of Parks and Recreation, and Mr. Diamond, Pool Manager, next week.

 

Ms. Mailander stated that the skateboard park is also open.  Due to the fact that the Governor’s Order allows larger groups to gather, the Kasschau Memorial Shell programs will begin on Tuesday, June 16^th.  The programs begin at 8:30 P.M. and are free.  Attendees are asked to social distance, and there may be guidelines on where people can sit.  While in the crowd, they ask that those attending wear a mask.  People sitting with their family may remove their masks as long as there is no one directly next to them.

 

Ms. Mailander stated that glass sneeze guards have been ordered to make the Village offices safer for both the public and the Village employees.  Once they are received, they will be installed and it will bring them one step closer to opening Village offices to the public.

 

Ms. Mailander stated that rear yard garbage pickup will resume on July 13^th.  Until that time, garbage will continue to be picked up curbside.

 

Ms. Mailander stated that regarding the renewal of dog licenses, everyone should get their rabies vaccines for their dogs.  However, because Village Hall is currently closed to the public, the Village will extend the time period to renew the dog licenses, without a late fee, until September 1^st.

 

Ms. Mailander stated that the U.S. Census continues and they asked that residents please participate.  The information is on the website as to how to do so, and all information submitted to the Census Bureau is confidential. 

 

Ms. Mailander stated that the Recycling Center is open and all recyclables should be put into the vehicle’s trunk, the resident should pull up, open the trunk, and then crews will take out the recycling, and the residents can be on their way. This will ensure that social distancing is maintained and it is a more fluid process.  Yard waste has to be in cans or biodegradable paper bags.  Brush and twigs must be bundled and tied.  No commercial landscapers will be accepted.  The Recycling Center is accepting cardboard from the Central Business District.

 

Ms. Mailander stated that the Primary Election will be a mail-in ballot and voting in a few polling locations in the Village, which are only for those with disabilities who cannot vote by mail.  If a voter is registered as a Republican or a Democrat a mail in ballot will be sent to the resident for that party.  If a voter is unaffiliated, that voter will receive a mail in ballot application, and at that point, the voter will have to declare a party to vote and then that particular party’s ballot will be sent to the voter.  The Primary Election is to elect the candidates to move forward to the General Election in November, which is why a voter must be affiliated with the Democrat or Republican Party in order to vote in the Primary Election.  Ms. Mailander stated that the final voter registration for the Primary Election is due to the County by June 16, 2020.

 

Ms. Mailander stated that the Farmers Market is returning with locally grown produce.  There will be social distancing measures in place, and everyone is asked to wear a mask.  It is on Sundays from 9:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.

 

Ms. Mailander stated that the Village Council’s upcoming meetings which are televised and held via Zoom are June 17^th which is a Village Council Work Session and Special Public Meeting, and July 1^st is the Reorganization Meeting at 12:00 P.M. 

 

8. COUNCIL REPORTS

 

Visioning Process – Councilwoman Knudsen advised that the comment period has been extended for the Visioning Process of the Master Plan to the end of June.  Comments are welcome from the Village community which includes residents, local organizations, boards and committees, and any other members of the public who are interested in Ridgewood’s future.  She encouraged everyone to go to VisionRidgewood.org.

 

Planning Board – Councilwoman Knudsen stated that the Planning Board will meet next week on Tuesday evening at 7:30 P.M.  They will have the public hearing on the third round housing element and Fair Share Plan amendments to the Master Plan.

 

Kasschau Shell – Councilwoman Knudsen encouraged everyone to go to the Kasschau Shell to hear the Stiletto’s performance, as she heard them rehearsing and they sounded terrific.

 

Chamber of Commerce – Councilwoman Walsh stated that she had the Chamber of Commerce meeting this morning and the Mayor swore in their new officers.  Scott Leif continues as President, Vice President is Lisa Samatero, Secretary is Elise Merhigy, and the Treasurer is Rob Dowling.  They intend to have a celebration in August.

 

They talked about the new curbside changes that are going to be happening, but they were very happy with the changes that are coming and the ability for them to have outdoor dining again.  They are going to start submitting for their permits, and they are engaged in that conversation. 

 

She added that Paul Vagianos called her in the afternoon, stating that right now there are spots designated for curbside pickup for restaurants and retail businesses and the hope is that there might be one spot per block that the businesses can pay for and use to continue curbside pickup.

 

Councilman Voigt stated that he thinks Mr. Vagianos is looking for a couple of spots in front of restaurants which the restaurants would pay for and use for curbside pickup.  He was very high on this, and hopefully they can speak about this tonight.

 

Mayor Hache stated that a lot of businesses reached out with their concern about the loss of the curbside pickup areas, and as the downtown reopens, there are professionals who work above some of those restaurants, and parking becomes precious.  Hopefully, the demand for parking will be a sign of a resurgence for the Central Business District.  He stated that the plan of the restaurants paying for the spots was a good plan and he thinks that would make a lot of sense.  Part of the discussion was that it wouldn’t be all day, and the signage would be very clear.  They have been talking about curbside pickup spots mainly for restaurants in the evening.  Once they get more guidance from Ms. Mailander and Sergeant Chuck, they will be able to look at what the curbside pickup spots would look like.

 

Central Business District Reopening – Mayor Hache stated that there is a reopening of the downtown for business.  Stores are reopening and parking meters will be in effect.  The reopening will allow restaurants to do outdoor dining and retail can have indoor activities once again.  The general guidelines for indoor gatherings are 25% of capacity or 50 people, whichever is less.  They are asking as a general guideline for retail, to allow as many people as can safely social distance inside the establishment.  The sidewalks have been marked with directional arrows for pedestrians and with tick marks that are six feet apart.  They are encouraging shoppers and diners to use the one direction on the sidewalks Monday through Friday and on the weekends they are going to have volunteers directing people to do that.

Mayor Hache stated that the last part of the reopening plan is a list of guidelines that they worked on with the Health Officer for restaurants and retail and they asked businesses to pledge to follow those guidelines.  They have posted on the website the map of what the weekend street closures will look like.  Part of the requirement from the Fire Department, so that they can move in emergency vehicles if necessary, is a ten foot line on the middle of the road.  Apparently on the streets that amount varied, from ten feet to thirteen feet, so they were asking that the Chamber of Commerce tell the businesses to measure five feet from the centerline and that becomes the barrier.

 

Mayor Hache stated that they discussed decreasing the required six feet between tables, by allowing them to hang clear shower curtains between tables.  The physical barrier would allow the distance between tables to be shortened significantly.  That would allow maximum utilization of the outdoor spaces for businesses.

 

Ms. Mailander added that during the week, the retail businesses would be able to have tables out on the sidewalks, as they do during sidewalk sale days.

 

9. ORDINANCES – RIDGEWOOD WATER - NONE

 

10. RESOLUTIONS – RIDGEWOOD WATER

 

THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 20-151 THROUGH 20-152, WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11. ORDINANCES

 

1. INTRODUCTION – NONE

 

2. PUBLIC HEARING - #3798 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Various Parking Regulations, Time Limit Parking, Reservation of Parking Spaces and Overnight Parking

 

Mayor Hache moved the reading of ordinance 3798 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened.  Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

The Village Clerk read ordinance 3798 by title:

 

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-29, “PARKING METER ZONES DESIGNATED” AND SECTION 265-32, “PAYMENT OF PARKING FEE REQUIRED” AND SECTION 265-33, “PERMIT PARKING” AND SECTION 265-36, “PARKING PROHIBITED CERTAIN HOURS” AND SECTION 265-42 “RESERVED PARKING SPACES”

 

Mayor Hache stated that the Public Hearing was opened.  There were no comments from the public and Mayor Hache moved that the Public Hearing be closed.  Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

Councilwoman Knudsen moved that ordinance 3798 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law.  Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

3. PUBLIC HEARING – #3799 – Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Fees for Overnight Parking Permit and Reserving a Parking Space in the Central Business District

 

Mayor Hache moved the reading of ordinance 3799 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened.  Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

The Village Clerk read ordinance 3799 by title:

 

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 145 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, FEES, AT SECTION 145-6, “ENUMERATION OF FEES RELATING TO CODE CHAPTERS”

 

Mayor Hache stated that the Public Hearing was opened.  There were no comments from the public and Mayor Hache moved that the Public Hearing be closed.  Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

Councilman Sedon moved that ordinance 3799 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law.  Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

4. PUBLIC HEARING – #3800 – Renovations to the Elks Club

 

Mayor Hache moved the reading of ordinance 3800 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened.  Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

The Village Clerk read ordinance 3800 by title:

 

ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $1,900,000, $1,500,000 OF WHICH IS FROM THE WATER CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND AND $400,000 OF WHICH IS FROM THE WATER CAPITAL SURPLUS, FOR RENOVATIONS TO THE ELK’S CLUB IN AND BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY

 

Mayor Hache stated that the Public Hearing was opened.  There were no comments from the public and Mayor Hache moved that the Public Hearing be closed.  Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

Councilwoman Knudsen moved that ordinance 3800 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law.  Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, and Mayor Hache

NAYS:            Councilmembers Voigt and Walsh

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

12. RESOLUTIONS

 

THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 20-153 THROUGH 20-170, WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:

 

Before voting took place, Councilwoman Walsh stated that she just realized that Resolution

20-168 accepts a donation, and she was one of the people that donated to that project, and asked if she should recuse herself.  Mr. Rogers stated that it is easiest to just recuse from all of the resolutions.  However, if Councilwoman Walsh wants to vote on the other resolutions, she can make an application for the Village Council to remove Resolution 20-168 from the consent agenda and vote on it separately.

 

Councilwoman Walsh asked for a motion to remove Resolution 20-168 from the consent agenda.  Mayor Hache moved the motion, and Councilman Voigt seconded the motion which was approved unanimously by voice vote.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION, NUMBERED 20-168 WAS CONSIDERED SEPARATELY, WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WAS READ BY TITLE ONLY:

 

Councilwoman Walsh recused herself from the vote.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION, NUMBERED 20-171 WAS CONSIDERED SEPARATELY WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WAS READ BY TITLE ONLY:

 

Councilwoman Walsh stated that the Village Council received an email this week of protest.  One of the bidders apparently bid $30,000 less than the one who is being awarded the contract.  Last week, they had noticed the different costs of the bids, and she asked Mr. Rogers what happens when somebody protests like this.  Mr. Rogers stated that he was made aware of the protest at the end of last week. This isn’t a bid process, because they went through State Contract or a Cooperative Pricing Contract.  The Village is looking for specific types of phones and the lowest cost estimate that was provided did not include the types of phones that the Village wanted to use.  That is why when there is a protest, there is potential for litigation, but because this is a different type of phone, it seems like the other proposal didn’t provide the materials that the Village was looking for their phone system.

 

Councilman Voigt asked if the low bidder provided those materials.  Mr. Rogers stated that from what he understands, vendors awarded a State Contract/Cooperative Pricing Contract hold a particular agreement to provide certain materials and the State Contract/Cooperative Pricing Contract vendor is the representative for that provider in the area.  In this case, the company filing the protest did not provide the features that the Village was looking for, in their phone system.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that they have a Special Public Meeting next week, so she asked to table this resolution until then in order to have all of the information and details with some level of specificity to understand what those differences are between the two phone systems.  Councilwoman Knudsen made a motion to consider this resolution at the Village Council’s June 17, 2020 Special Public Meeting, which was seconded by Councilman Voigt. 

 

Roll Call Vote

 

AYES:             Councilmembers Knudsen, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Hache

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION, NUMBERED 20-172, WAS CONSIDERED SEPARATELY AND READ IN FULL:

 

Before the resolution was read, Councilwoman Walsh stated that there is an individual who is going to be donating the first few weeks’ cost to the Village for the closing down of the streets on the weekends, to create a pedestrian mall.  Mayor Hache stated that he wasn’t sure that needed to be included in the resolution.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

13. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that he was somewhat concerned that Councilwoman Walsh just asked that the name of a large donor be revealed and that name has not been made public.  He added that he was pleased to hear that the Village Manager ordered sneeze guards to be placed at Village Hall and they can look forward to Village Hall reopening sometime in the near future.  Along those same lines, he is wondering if the Village Council has set in place a plan to begin meeting in person.  In particular, there are two brand new Village Councilmembers being sworn in on July 1^st, and they have already made plans to conduct that Reorganization Meeting via Zoom, but he is wondering if some consideration can be given if there is good weather to conduct the session at the Kasschau Memorial Shell on the stage, so the public can attend that meeting by sitting on the grass and be spaced out.

 

Pamela Perron, 123 Kenilworth Road, stated that there was a remarkable event in the Village this afternoon.  Hundreds of people gathered at Garber Square and walked over to the parking lot at the YMCA to protest police violence and several incidents, such as the murders of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor, and others.  It was respectful, thoughtful, peaceful, and very well run by the Martin Luther King Committee of Ridgewood and Glen Rock, the Community Peace and Justice Forum and the Interfaith Community.  She added that Police Chief Luthcke was the first speaker and she really set the tone of calm and trust.  Ms. Perron commended Chief Luthcke and all of her wonderful neighbors.

 

Melanie Hooban, 431 Bogert Avenue, stated that about a year ago, she brought up the subject of family membership options at Graydon Pool.  She bought her Graydon Pool season memberships for her family, as soon as she heard that Graydon Pool may be opening for the summer.  Her total cost was over $600 for her family, and she put the question out to the community on social media, and the consensus was, that price was exorbitant for any pool.  She stated that she made that purchase with the knowledge that there may be half day options, no concession stand, and she considered canceling her membership.  Ms. Hooban stated that she thinks the Village Council needs to consider families in town with maybe more than 2.2 children that want to participate in our local activities.

 

Ms. Hooban stated that she has spent about eight years of the twelve years she has lived on Bogert Avenue finding a way for there to be safe parking on the street and safe resident usage.  There had been some parking changes that were made on the street, and one resident managed to have those overturned.  She stated that it is now a bigger issue, as residents are staying home due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and there is much more parking on the street, because the on-street parking regulations have been suspended.  She asked that the Village Council take a very significant look at this street, as she believes they fall into the Safe Routes to School category and with the paving and measurements of the street, she believes they should have sidewalks.  At this point, she would like the Village Council to take this very seriously.

 

There were no additional comments from the public.  Mayor Hache closed public comment.

 

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that regarding Bogert Avenue, it wasn’t one resident who overturned the parking regulations, it was a petition of no less than 30 residents in the neighborhood.  This is something that the Village Council can revisit and have a community-wide conversation with all of the neighbors.  She believes they did revisit the ordinance and made some modifications to it.

 

14.         ADJOURNMENT

 

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 Village Council’s Regular Public Meeting was adjourned at 9:22 P.M.

 

 

 

 

 

______________________________

                                                                                                      Ramon M. Hache, Sr.                         

Mayor                        

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

__________________________________

              Heather A. Mailander

      Village Manager/Village Clerk