A REGULAR WORK SESSION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOD, NEW JERSEY ON FEBRUARY 27, 2019 AT 7:30 P.M.

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

Mayor Hache called the meeting to order at 7:30 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; Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney; and Donna Jackson, Deputy Village Clerk.  

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 and all our first responders.

2. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

Nanette Rosenthal, Assistant Manager at Ridgewood Day Spa, stated that she currently works five days a week and averages 35 plus hours a week and she spends $100 a month on the employee parking pass and $25 yearly for the window sticker.  She added that equates to 73 cents an hour.  She has to buy the hang tag because there are days she works nine or more hours, and the Cottage Place and Walnut parking lots have an eight hour and thirteen minimum/maximum parking time on the app.  Many businesses in the Village are retail and many employees make minimum wage or a bit above it.  Minimum wage in NJ is $8.85, for someone who works 35 hours a week that comes to $1,239 a month before taxes, and after tax that comes to $1,060 a month.  Ms. Rosenthal stated that means that a monthly parking pass is roughly 10% of the take home monthly income.  She asked why it is that employees who work hard to make the Village what it is, have to sacrifice 10% of their salary to work here.  This means that after paying parking they are left with $960 a month for all expenses.  Numerous friends have considered working in Ridgewood but because the parking situation is so expensive they have been forced to decline.

Ms. Rosenthal stated that the employees support the Village commerce and spend their hard earned money by shopping and dining in town, and that targeting the most disadvantaged contributors of value to the Village is unfair and unacceptable.  She added that she would like to propose that for Non-Resident employees of Village businesses who can verify this by showing current pay stubs, should not have to pay for parking.  This serves those individuals, but also those businesses who need to hire employees because it makes employment more financially acceptable.

Ryan and Sue Marie, members from the World Missions Society Church of God on Godwin Avenue, stated that they do a lot of community services throughout town, and had an idea that they could do snow removal for 45 and older or elderly individuals who don’t have family to help them with snow removal.  Ryan added that they wanted to come and present their idea and asked if their flyer could be sent out throughout the community.  Sue Marie asked if there were ways that they could impact students in the community and want to work with the schools to show them the importance of helping others.  They have been invited to the United Nations, and one of their goals is to fulfill one of the 17 goals that the UN has to make the world a better place for everyone.

Mayor Hache asked if they would share the flyer, and asked if there was an email to send a message to.  Councilwoman Knudsen added this way they could start a correspondence.

Margaret Tracy, 130 Prospect Street, stated that she had an article that she wanted to share regarding a type of affordable housing that she felt was a great idea and provided the article for the Village Council.

Serena Iacoviello, 363 Downs Street, stated that as an environmentalist, she was excited to hear about the proposed ban on plastic bags, and she also wanted to encourage that they also consider placing a fee on the paper bags, similar to the Hoboken ordinance.  She added that plastic bags are needing to be banned and paper bags should also be reduced as they are not the solution.  Paper bags have a larger carbon footprint that plastic bags, as the production is very water intensive, and during the shipping phase it takes a lot of energy to ship them out.  She added that the purpose should be to reduce the pollution by all single use bags, and to encourage consumers to bring their own reusable bags. 

Ms. Iacoviello added that it is important to recognize that for businesses it is more expensive to produce paper bags than plastic bags, so by letting them take the fee for the bags they would be happy to comply with the ordinance.  She suggested removing from the Hoboken ordinance the bags that are 2.25 mils thick that are compliant for the fee because that seems to undermine the intent of the ordinance, which could cause increased plastic pollution.

Pamela Perron, 123 Kenilworth Road, stated that she commended the Village Council for considering an ordinance to limit the use of single use plastic bags, adding that she asked that they include the mandatory fee for people who forget their bags and need to use a paper bag.  In California, they tried that and it didn’t work.  She added that it really is past time to restrict the use of these plastics, and this is just the beginning of what we have to do as there is so much more plastic out there.  Our retailers are already so beleaguered, lets make this easy for them as the fee will offset their costs.  Finally, Ms. Perron added that while the Village Council is considering the environment, look at the resolution that the League of Women Voters suggested to stop the use of funds to purchase single use plastic water bottles.

Paul Vaggianos, 280 Rivara Court, stated that for a year and a half at his restaurant, they have been using paper straws, and got rid of plastic straws.  In this country we use 500 million plastic straws a day and he thinks that the Village should be aware that this is a viable option.  It is slightly more expensive, but the more people use them the more the price will go down and it is certainly not prohibitive.

There were no additional comments from the public.

Mayor Hache stated that there was a comment about the parking and an eight hour limit on the app for Cottage Place, but Cottage Place is open during the active meter hours, and he asked Ms. Mailander to look into it as it made no sense to have an eight hour limit on a lot that is all day parking.

3. MANAGERS REPORT

GovDeals to auction off surplus property – Ms. Mailander stated today the Village sold three surplus vehicles that were in very poor condition and received $3,500 for them.  At the end of last year, they sold two pieces of large heavy equipment and received $15,000.  As they declare property surplus, they will continue to use the website auctions to get the best possible price.

Senior Bus – Ms. Mailander stated that the current senior bus is ten years old and in need of replacement.  This morning, the Village opened bids for a new bus that they hope is as reliable as the current bus.  The bus driver, Billy, will remain the same.

Board of Education Election April 16^th – Ms. Mailander stated that polls will be open 6:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M.  March 26^th is the last day for voter registration.  The Village Clerks has someone in the lobby of the library taking voter registrations from 4:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M.  This is for any new voters, any young adults who have turned 18, and/or people who have moved within Ridgewood because you may end up in a different polling location at your new address.

“Meet the Mayor” – Ms. Mailander stated that Mayor Hache would meet with residents on an appointment-only basis on Saturday, March 9^th, from 9:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M.  She encouraged interested residents to contact the Village Clerk’s Office to make an appointment.  If there are no scheduled appointments, the session will be rescheduled to the next month.

Super Science Saturday March 2^nd – Ms. Mailander stated Super Science Saturday is from 9:00 A.M. to 1:30 P.M.  This is the 31^st year that it is being held.  Students are encouraged to share their own science experiments and enjoy free presentations made by the Liberty Science Center.  They will also have indoor and outdoor drone racing, the 30 foot egg drop challenge, and a live rocket launch.

Annual Weight Loss Challenge Postcards – Ms. Mailander stated that the postcards will be mailed soon, and the Challenge begins on March 24^th.

Dogs in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square – Ms. Mailander stated that there have been some dogs off leash on Memorial Park at Van Neste Square and she wanted to remind everyone that the only place that dogs are allowed on leash is at Habernickel Park.

Geese Problem – Ms. Mailander stated that geese are a problem, and if anyone finds geese nesting on their property, please call the Health Department to report them.  Geese Peace volunteers should call the Health Department as well.

4. COUNCIL REPORTS

Ridgewood Environmental Action Committee and The Green Team – Councilman Sedon stated that REAC and The Green Team met last week.  There was a presentation by NV5, the firm that is doing the Visioning Process for the Village’s Master Plan, and there is an opportunity to craft a lot of sustainability in the Master Plan moving forward.

On March 20^th from 6:45 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. REAC is sponsoring a workshop in composting, so residents can learn how to compost the correct way so there is no smell and it doesn’t attract pests.  This can help reduce food waste in the garbage stream and it’s better for the environment and soil health.

On May 18^th from 10:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. in the Graydon Pool parking lot, Ridgewood will be hosting a Styrofoam collection.  This was brought to them as being part of the Sustainable Jersey Bergen County Hub, which applied for a $20,000 grant to kick this program off.  Two other towns are participating in this, and one already held a drive.

Earth Day will be on April 14^th in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square from 11:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M.

April 22^nd at 4:00 P.M. in the Library there will be a presentation for children, School House Rocks: Earth, which is about the environment and what kids can do to participate in sustainability.

Shade Tree Commission – Councilman Sedon stated that the Shade Tree Commission met on Monday, but he was unable to attend as it was a rescheduled meeting and he was in a Budget Hearing.

Ridgewood Arts Council – Councilwoman Knudsen stated that the Ridgewood Arts Council would be hosting its next Artist Talk on March 12^th featuring Dana Glaser, a film director who will speak about the making of his upcoming film, ‘A Case of Blue.’  The talk will be held at the Upper Ridgewood Tennis Club at 915 Glenview Road, from 6:30 P.M. to 7:30 P.M.  Artists Talks are free and open to the public.  Email RAC@ridgewoodnj.net for more information.

Master Plan – Councilwoman Knudsen stated that NV5 completed all of the edits this past Monday, and every home and business in the Village will receive the ‘Our Village, Our Future’ visioning postcard which will invite everyone to go to their website and participate.  The Visioning Process is the very first step to the creation of a Master Plan.  Go to visionRidgewood.org to participate.  The Master Plan is a guidance document that sets goals, policies, and priorities for investing in the physical, environmental, economic, and social future of the community.  It is an important forward-looking document for generations to come.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that if residents receive the postcard and they are uncomfortable with computers, they can contact Village Hall and request a hard copy survey.  They can mail it back to be collected and manually input by NV5.

Library Board – Councilwoman Walsh stated that they had their meeting last night and the Author Luncheon was sold out.  The Reading Marathon is wrapping up, and it is a wonderful program encouraging kids to read as much as possible and they get a certificate when they finish.

The Library Trustees, and the Library Friends, are working on a Capital Campaign for the Reimagine Project, so they have formed a committee to explore different options and how to get donations to help with that process.  They will be coming to the Village next Friday for their budget presentation to the Village Council.

Citizen Safety Advisory Committee – Councilman Voigt stated that the Citizen Safety Advisory Committee Board met last Thursday.  There were a couple of suggestions for the Village.  To consider a No Left Turn sign at the Starbucks exit as there is currently only a Right Turn Only on the right hand side, and the suggestion is to remove that and place two No Left Turn signs.  There was a request to repaint the faded arrows on Union Street, as well.  There also continues to be the issue of people going the wrong way down Union Street.  Some of the issues they have are with the Physicians office, which goes down the wrong way so they should put signs there to make sure they are only turning right.  Councilman Voigt stated that there continues to be issues with the drainage on Union Street which should be looked at.

NV5 is meeting with CSAC on March 21^st to go over the Visioning Process.

They will be putting sidewalks in as you go west along Glen up to Hillcrest.  As students and children go to Willard walking up that street, they will probably cross at Hillcrest which is a dangerous intersection because of the hill.  So, they should look into options for that particular intersection when they fix the sidewalks. 

Bergen County – Mayor Hache stated that he had some notes from the County.  He had some discussion about the Duck Pond project as it is to restore the lining in the pond and an overall project of ecological restoration.  Saddle River no longer provides a stable source of water for the Duck Pond.  The construction project is looking to renovate the existing connection of the pond to its water source.  They want to improve the passive gravity fed system that is there with an improved mechanical system to be used as water conditions necessitate.  In addition to these modifications, other improvements are being considered to increase habitat value and function, including the placement of native aquatic and terrestrial plants along the ponds edge and to install a wetland feature.  Ultimately, by improving the sites hydrology, water quality will be improved for diversity of flora and fauna.  The facility plan is quite extensive, and the funding was secured a few months ago for a total of $2.35 million and they are also seeking some Green Acres funding to supplement.  It looks like the project will be ready for bidding in September of 2019 as the County has had some problems with the DEP with the hydraulic and river flow calculations.  The plan is to have the project completed for the 2020 season.  Doing most of the work in the late fall/winter months allows the park to be used without closing sections during the busy part of the season.

Ridgewood Water – Mayor Hache stated that Ridgewood Water filed a complaint in Superior Court of Bergen County on Monday, which is one of the many steps that Ridgewood Water is taking to protect the drinking water from PFAS and to protect the ratepayers from the cost of removing the chemical.  The defendants in this case are companies that manufactured, sold, and promoted the products containing PFAS even though they knew that these products would contaminate the water.  Under the leadership of Rich Calbi, Ridgewood Water is treating the water and removing these chemicals to provide its customers with the cleanest water possible, but the defendants in this case also have a responsibility and that is to reimburse Ridgewood for the cost of getting the job done.  This is what lies at the heart of the lawsuit, as companies created the problem knowingly, the responsibility will be on the ratepayers, or should it go on the companies that created the problem and should be accountable for it.  Mayor Hache added that the list of companies is available on the Ridgewood Water website.  

1. DISCUSSION

1. Ridgewood Water

1. Award Change Order – SCADA System Software

Ms. Mailander stated that in 2016, Village Council awarded an Extraordinary and Unspecified Services Agreement with Emerson Process Management Power and Water Solutions, Inc. for the provision of software and services to upgrade the existing SCADA System Software.  At this time, an additional $10,665 is required for work completed beyond the original scope.  This includes Emerson supplying two additional remote telemetry unit cabinets.  This change should have been incorporated into Change Order #1 which was processed in December of 2017, but was not included.  This is now Change Order #2 which brings the contract total to $391,847.96.  It is allocated in the Water Capital Budget.

2. Award Sole Source Contract – Corrosion Inhibitor

Ms. Mailander stated that the Lead and Copper rule from NJDEP mandates that a Corrosion Control Program be established, and that is the treatment process in which small amounts of phosphate inhibitors are added to the water to prevent corrosion.  The inhibitor is injected into the water stream prior to it entering the distribution system.  The phosphates create a thin coating on the inside of plumbing materials, effectively preventing the corrosion of lead and copper in the water.  In 2013, Ridgewood Water implemented a pilot program, utilizing poly-orthophosphate to control corrosion in the system.  Based on the pilot program’s success, Ridgewood Water installed the inhibitor ESC 532 at the active treatment facilities.  The installation was completed in April of 2016.

ESC Environmental uses a unique blend of polyphosphates and orthophosphates that is developed and distributed solely through their company.  Utilizing a consistent formula via the same blend is important for Ridgewood Water to maintain corrosion control.  This is the recommendation to award a sole source contract to ESC Environmental out of Glenville, NY in the amount of $210,000 for the year 2019.  This is in the Operating Budget.  

3. Award NJPA Co-Op Contract – Purchase of Backhoe Loader – Revised Resolution

Ms. Mailander stated that in February at the Public Meeting, the Village Council approved a Resolution for the purchase of a Caterpillar Backhoe Loader.  The Resolution was approved with funds coming from the Operating Budget, which is incorrect.  The funding is actually in the Capital Budget, so they will redo the Resolution to account for that error.

1. Parking

1. Review Parking in All Lots after 6:00 P.M.

Ms. Mailander stated that she and Mayor Hache had a discussion as they approved having anyone be able to park in the train station lot after 6:00 P.M. and they have to pay the meters until 8:00 P.M.  So, as commuters leave the lot, it frees up those spaces for people who want to shop or dine.  The suggestion was to allow that in all of the parking lots after 6:00 P.M.  That was so people can park in the commuter spots, which is especially important in the Hudson Street lot, and many times those commuter spots have been emptied and then diners are parking there not realizing that they can’t park there because that is only for commuters.

Mayor Hache stated that was a great suggestion that was brought up, as it started with the train station parking lot as a lot of diners use that lot at night.  Looking at Hudson Street and other lots it made no sense having the spots until 8:00 P.M. as the commuters don’t come back to claim their spots and they were depriving these spots to the shoppers and diners.  This would not require the use of a parking permit.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she thought that it might be prudent to just say that after 3:00 P.M. because by that time either commuters have vacated the spaces or are in the spaces.  After that time, she doesn’t think anyone is going to park there to commute to work, so why wouldn’t they make those spaces available at an earlier time, kind of like the flex spot that they did at Cottage Place.

Mayor Hache stated that the issue he has is that they come up with a lot of great ideas, but enforcement becomes a big issue and adding another layer of confusion.  The dead zone begins at 3:00 P.M., when a lot of the downtown goes to sleep until the restaurants open at 6:00 P.M.  Until then, there is plenty of parking around.  From 3:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. there is a drop in usage.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she doesn’t think changing it adds another layer changing the time to 3:00 P.M. or 6:00 P.M.  You are saying that those spots that are typically for commuters all day, are going to be set back to 6:00 P.M. as opposed to setting it back to 3:00 P.M.  Mayor Hache stated that he didn’t think it was anything considerable, but there were already so many changes and it was a lot for the public to keep in mind, as well as for enforcement.

Councilman Voigt stated that his wife parked in Hudson Street at 2:00 P.M. and got a ticket.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she must have parked in a commuter spot that was empty.  Councilman Voigt stated that he understood Councilwoman Knudsen’s point as maybe 3:00 P.M. might be reasonable.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that if the spaces are empty and there is no allowance for utilization of spaces, it is 100% lost revenue and if you make the allowance for people to come in and park, it might make additional revenue.

Councilman Sedon stated that he felt the same as Councilman Voigt and Councilwoman Knudsen except that he was going to say 4:00 P.M. instead of 3:00 P.M.  He added that it’s almost like taking away that layer of enforcement because now you don’t have to go through and look if someone has a tag and consider the time, but also what would be the difference between doing that at 6:00 P.M. or 4:00 P.M.

Ms. Mailander asked if everyone was in agreement at 3:00 P.M.  Mayor Hache asked if this would go for all of the lots.  Ms. Mailander stated that they would now have to change the train station also because right now it goes into effect on March 5^th, and then it would change to 3:00 P.M. some time in late April when this ordinance would be adopted.

Councilwoman Walsh stated that she would imagine that those that bought the permits might feel a little slighted that they are basically paying for the full day and then somebody is going in afterwards.  If they are requiring people that commute to buy the permits, but then as soon as they pull out someone would pull in there during their time.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that you have to exploit that opportunity any way you can, and to have people get tickets in the afternoon.  If they come back there will be other spaces, there are flex spaces.  Councilwoman Walsh stated that they charged them extra so they could park there all day, but now they are going to pull out of their spot and the town would be double dipping when someone else pulls in right after.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that they have to leave the parking space for it to be vacated, then they shouldn’t argue to change the time limit to 6:00 P.M. because they should be entitled to the parking space to 8:00 P.M.  Councilman Voigt asked if they could a week’s worth of evaluations to see which spots are open.  His guess is that a lot of spots may be open.  Mayor Hache stated that Hudson Street has a lot of open spots.  Councilman Voigt stated if that is the case, then they should take advantage of that.

Councilman Sedon stated that if you commute, and buy the pass, and are in New York City for 12 hours, then you’re still going to be there.  So, it is a value to have the pass in the morning, but if you have a half day and leave, he doesn’t think anyone will feel slighted if they left the commuter spot, came back downtown for dinner at 5:30 P.M., and expected to get back in that spot and had to park somewhere else.  Councilwoman Walsh stated that she didn’t think they would be slighted about leaving the spot, she thought they would be slighted about charging them extra to park there.  Councilman Sedon stated that they could park there for as long as they want, and if he was commuting he would want his spot there in the morning.  Whether he is at work for four or ten hours, his car would be there, but if he only uses the spot for three hours then maybe he should rethink paying for the annual pass.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she thought it was the exact same scenario with the flex spaces at Cottage Place as they sold passes for employee parking and at a certain point if those spaces remain empty, anyone could go and park and pay the meter.  All too often during the day, many spaces remained empty.  In metered spaces, she watched six cars in a row get tickets because they were in employee spaces but were shopping right around the corner.  All of the spaces were empty, and they had created another problem.  The flex spaces create an opportunity for someone to park.  If another commuter comes along and parks in the parking space then, they still wouldn’t have their place.

Councilwoman Walsh stated that whether they go at 6:00 A.M. and leave at 4:00 P.M., they just charged them extra to have this parking at the train, so why did they charge them extra if anyone can park in the spot from 3:00 P.M. on.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that they charged them extra because the rates went up and the extra cost went into the increase in parking rates.  Her understand is that a piece of that was reflective of the actual parking rates, because when it is broken down they are getting a discount on the overall cost.  If they were to use that 100% of the time it would actually cost them more, so they increased the price of the pass because of the increase on the meter rates.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she felt it was important that they leave themselves some flexibility and options.

Councilman Voigt stated that he was okay with 3:00 P.M.  Ms. Mailander stated that they would use 3:00 P.M. but requested that they keep it at that for the rest of the year on behalf of the Police Department and the Parking Enforcement Officers as it makes people confused.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she heard what Ms. Mailander was saying, but she thinks they have come a long way from when she first came on the Village Council and every lot was full at 7:30 A.M. with commuters and they have worked hard to strike a good balance and unfortunately they are tweaking a little at times.  Ms. Mailander agreed but added that she would like it to stay as is for the benefit of everyone for the rest of this year.

1. Budget

1. Award Contract – Road Resurfacing of Various Village Streets

Ms. Mailander stated that the Village accepted bids on February 20^th.  There were 13 plan holders eligible to bid and the Village received 11 bids.  The low bid was from American Asphalt and Milling Services of Kearny at $2,662,604.76.  They submitted a complete bid package with all necessary information.  They have checked references which were favorable.  The work is to be funded for the 2019 Capital Budget.  The bid is greater than the funds available, but they are recommending a partial award to the contractor in the amount of $1,800,000 to start the paving work as soon as possible.  The Village has applied for an NJDOT grant which may offset some of the cost.

2. Award Change Order – Village Hall HVAC System

Ms. Mailander stated that the Village hired a firm to work on the HVAC system, which is much improved.  Change Order #2 is for $5,500 which is required to repair additional variable air volume units.  It utilizes the unit cost for repair in the original contract bid at $1,700 per unit repaired.  One unit only needed a new transducer, therefore a reduced price of $400 was agreed upon.  This increases the total contract to $283,400.  The heat is at a good place throughout the building, and when the air conditioning comes on hopefully that will be well balanced as well.

Councilman Voigt asked if they could get an update on what is going on in the Community Center as there had been complaints that at sometimes it was too cold.  Ms. Mailander stated that she didn’t think they were getting those complaints any more and had gotten a good balance, but she would double check.

Councilwoman Knudsen asked if all the original bids for the HVAC work had involved the work for the Change Orders, would this bid have been higher than the others.  Mr. Calbi stated that each of the bids had a requirement to quote a unit price for this work because they knew that there would be some units that needed repair, and he doesn’t know the specifics, but overall this company had the lowest bid price.  He added that overall, there may have been a company that had a lower bid price for that unit, but their base bid was higher.  Councilwoman Knudsen asked that on this $5,500 on this piece, is it possible that it was anticipated by another bidder.  Mr. Calbi stated that wouldn’t be the case, as it was anticipated that they needed repair and got a price upfront.

Mayor Hache asked what the next lowest bid was.  Mr. Calbi stated that he was unsure but he would get that information.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she was interested in grouping all of that paperwork and maybe sending that to her so she could take a look.

3. Award Payment – Emergency Construction – Demarest Pump Station

Ms. Mailander stated that the Demarest Pump Station experienced a failure of the pumps during a period of heavy inflow and infiltration.  The pumps could not be installed because of the inflow and infiltration in the inflow pipe, therefore they had to bypass to avoid flooding the residents on the street that drain into the pump station.  To avoid an NJDEP fine, they awarded the emergency repair to a local contractor that has worked with the Village in the past to construct a buried bypass pipeline from the Pump Station to a nearby receiving manhole. 

Now that the buried bypass pipe is in place, they are in the process of bidding out the repair by lining of the inflow pipe.  The resolution is to pay for the contractor’s efforts to install a buried bypass pipeline.

4. Award Payment – Emergency Construction – Andover Pump Station

Ms. Mailander stated that the Andover Pump Station’s force main recently sprung a leak in front of 953 Andover Terrace, resulting in effluent running over the resident’s lawn and then down the street.  This required an immediate response to stop the release of sewage into the storm water collection system.  J.F. Creamer and Son of Hackensack was hired to repair it.  The resolution is to pay for their efforts to fix the leak.

1. Policy

1. Proposed Amendment to Smoking Ordinance

Ms. Mailander stated that it will say that all parts of the cannabis plant will be prohibited except only those that contain the compound of the chemical THC.  Mr. Rogers stated that when this ordinance was enacted they were talking about the restrictions with regard to marijuana use.  There are certain compounds of the cannabis sativa plant that do not contain THC, one of which is hemp and in the way that the definition in the ordinance was written it included all parts.  So those are still included, and anything with THC is restricted and prohibited, but just those that don’t contain THC can be sold.  He added that it was important to make that distinction, as hemp doesn’t contain THC.

Mayor Hache asked if CBD oils are okay.  Mr. Rogers stated that CBD oils are okay and they want to be able to allow them to be sold in the Village.

2. Proposed Amendment to Ordinance for Landscaper Services and Fees

Ms. Mailander stated that the first proposed ordinance updates the Village’s regulations governing landscapers and landscaping services.  This new ordinance would require landscapers to register with the Village only if they would like to bring yard waste materials from residents to the Village’ Lakeview Compost Facility during the Village’s defined and announced leaf collection season.  Deposited materials are paid for with Facility Acceptance Tickets.  Currently, they register all landscapers which conflicts with the State of New Jersey Contractors’ Registration Act.

Ms. Mailander stated that the second ordinance increases the fee for registering with the Village.  It was $25 and they are recommending $50 per year.  The last time the fee was increased was in 2006.  The price of Facility Acceptance Tickets for Lakeview is not being changed, which is $30 per ticket.  In 2016, they received 1,318 cubic yards charging $4,350.  In 2017, they received 2,799 cubic yards for $5,850.  In 2018, Lakeview Compost Facility took in 4,091 cubic yards of material charging $7,200 from landscapers.

Ms. Mailander added that they are going to indicate that each vehicle that has a license plate from a motor vehicle agency will need to be registered.

Councilwoman Knudsen asked if they knew how many registered landscapers the Village has now.  Ms. Mailander stated that she wouldn’t know off the top of her head.  Councilwoman Knudsen asked how many of those registered landscapers brought material to the composting facility.  Ms. Mailander stated that she could get this information and bring it back next week. 

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that on the actual ordinance, item A speaks about landscaping firms desiring to bring yard waste to the facility.  Should it contain specific language referring to Village property owners.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that he could take another look at it and see if the additional language could make it clearer.  Their goal is that they will only accept material generated within the Village.  They look at their load sometimes and ask what addresses they came from.  He gave the example that if someone is coming from Hillcrest you should see a lot of Red Oak, and if it is full of Gum Trees it is a bit suspicious and they have that skill set amongst the staff.

Councilman Voigt asked how come it has increased more dramatically over the past three years.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that with the enforcement of curb side leaf depositing and the pickup schedule, a lot of people have been instructing their landscapers to take it away so as not to risk a ticket.

Mayor Hache asked if since they haven’t increased the fees as well, could that lead to the increase.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that they were very cost efficient and that’s why the proposal is to increase it slightly, and it may have been advantageous to landscapers to do it.  The leaves that a landscaper brings to Lakeview do not have to be collected by the Village staff as well.

3. Outdoor Café Ordinance Revisions

Ms. Mailander stated that at the Public Meeting in February, there were several items that the Village Council wished to discuss further.  The barriers must be weighted and cannot be bolted into the sidewalks.  The recommendation from the Building Department and Code Enforcement Officer is that the weight shall be proportional to the size and weight of the barrier, and in the event of high winds, all barriers must be removed from the sidewalk until the wind advisory is lifted.  She added that this would be in hurricane type conditions or very high anticipated winds.

Mr. Yotka stated that they had witness of that Monday morning with the high winds with various barriers on North Broad Street being knocked over and planting materials ending up in the street.  They are recommending that the barriers are weighted down, perhaps with a sand bag, as long as they are not secured to the sidewalks or curbs.  Councilman Voigt stated that this was a laundry list of issues that were brought up by some of the restaurant owners who came to the meeting, and the suggestion would be to have a subcommittee of some of the Councilmembers and restaurant owners to make sure that they have a comprehensive list and maybe hammer out some of these issues and then come back. 

Mayor Hache stated that he personally has walked the sidewalks, with a tape measure, and his conscience is clean.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that the importance of this is that they get it wrapped up to make certain that the obstructions that have occurred in the past are cleaned up so they can issue permits.  She added that she was good with the ordinance.

Ms. Mailander stated that they have already said that where there is no parking, or a loading zone, the outdoor café can be six inches from the lip of the curb.  Someone asked about angled parking, and the recommendation from the Building Department is that it be twelve inches from the lip of the curb because there are meters there.  No barriers can be placed in the required three foot openings between the barriers.  Mayor Hache asked if they were looking for a problem, because now they have no minimum requirements in terms of distance from the curb on angled streets but they haven’t had an issue.  In the not so distant future, they will be taking out the meters, and so far there have been no issues.  Councilwoman Knudsen added that she agreed and she never had a problem with the angled parking, and that should be a wash as long as they are adhering to the sidewalk spacing necessary for pedestrians.

Ms. Mailander stated that currently the only one that is six inches is the parallel parking, so did they want to change the 45 degrees to six inches as well.  Mayor Hache asked if they could leave it as is.  Ms. Mailander stated that it was at 30 inches, because everyone except parallel parking is 30 inches.  Mayor Hache asked what it was today.  Ms. Mailander stated that it was 30 inches.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that it should be whatever they need to do to make it six inches.  Ms. Mailander added that there can be nothing placed in the barriers in the required three foot openings because that allows people to get to the sidewalk.

Ms. Mailander stated that next was the height of the planters, which was originally three feet, and was increased to four feet.  One restaurant commented that they wanted it higher than that.  Mayor Hache has a visual.  There was agreement to leave the height at four feet.

Ms. Mailander stated that next was whether the dates for the outdoor cafes should remain at March 1^st through November 30^th as this allows there to be a time during the winter months to clear the snow and ice and look at the sidewalk to see if any improvements need to be made.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she liked the idea of having that time to clean up, but maybe they should do it to the end of December because winter starts December 21^st and that might be a plus to leave through the holidays. 

Councilman Voigt added that he was in favor of having it all year, and if there is an opportunity to do business, they should have the opportunity to do that.  Councilwoman Walsh stated that they didn’t know when the weather was going to be good or bad, but they may have a cold December and then warm January and February.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that December was the fourth quarter and a busy season, and she understands keeping everything clear for a couple months to make sure that the snow is cleared properly and the staff can make sure any sidewalk repairs are noted. 

Mr. Yotka stated that he thought January and February would probably give them ample time to survey East Ridgewood Avenue and the other areas that are effected by the outdoor dining.  Councilwoman Walsh stated that she thought that was fair.  Councilman Sedon stated that if they could get everything done in January and February, he was good with the two months.

Ms. Mailander stated that the last issue was whether private property outdoor cafes should be held to the same standards as those on public sidewalks.  She added that the fee has always been charged for outdoor cafes on private property.  She added that Tracy Jeffery indicated that for the other standards on private property, she wants the 52 inches for strollers and wheelchairs to be able to travel, but the barriers could be any height as long as it doesn’t create an obstruction for either pedestrians or for vehicles.  There are seven properties on private property that have outdoor cafes.  Of those, there are one or two who, because they are a corner, couldn’t have an eight foot high planter because it would be an obstruction.  They have never had a height restriction with planters in the past.  Ms. Mailander suggested that they should still have the 52 inches and then make sure that whatever barrier they use, have to be one of the approved barriers.  If it was a planter that they want to be larger, they could do so as long as it doesn’t create an obstruction.

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Mayor Hache stated that he wasn’t sure he liked the idea of charging for the private property cafes and the issue that he has is the 52 inch, and when they started doing the modifications it was to protect the public and not to get into dictating what happens inside a private property.  Ms. Mailander stated that outdoor cafes were started in 1993 and since that time they have always licensed the ones on private property, but if they don’t license them then they can’t enforce either.  Mayor Hache stated that he felt licensing was fine, but he had an issue with the 52 inch requirement.  Ms. Mailander stated that most of them have it.  Mayor Hache added that he felt it was overkill.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she agreed with Mayor Hache and suggested providing these locations with requirements; however, since there are a couple of private outdoor cafes on corners, there has to be some specificity on obstructions on a corner, no different then if it was a corner property that can’t have shrubbery at a certain height.  Mr. Yotka stated that they would require the same standards.  Ms. Mailander stated that it should say that as long as it does not create a sight obstruction for pedestrians or vehicles.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she felt it should be more specific and they should confirm the wording with Mr. Rogers.

Mr. Rogers stated that if it doesn’t protrude into the public right of way and is still on private property, then the next thing you worry about are the sight distances, and as long as it isn’t an obstruction, then it should be clean.  There isn’t much they can regulate from there as the rest is safety and health.  Mr. Yotka suggested extracting that section of the ordinance that already exists and inserting it there.  There was some additional discussion and a consensus that the wording would be inserted into that section.

Ms. Mailander stated that those were the items that were brought up last week.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that there was no more tweaking.  Ms. Mailander stated that they would put together an ordinance and Mr. Rogers would look at the wording for obstructions on private property.  They have agreed that anything that they do introduce before the Village Council, will go by these new guidelines.  It will be adopted but some people may want outdoor cafes prior to May, and we do not want to hold them back pending this ordinance.  Councilwoman Knudsen asked if they needed to adopt a resolution to permit that to be applied beforehand.  Ms. Mailander stated that she was unsure if they could do a resolution to wait until the ordinance is adopted for enforcement.  Mr. Rogers stated that it couldn’t be enforced until it is a law.

4. Award Contract – SCADA System Software – Water Pollution Control Facility

Ms. Mailander stated that this is an ongoing program to upgrade and maintain the computer controlled operating system that runs the plant operations.  The Village hired Keystone Engineering Group several years ago, and they assist in assessing the problems and fixing the SCADA system.  The SCADA system controls the operation of pumps, blowers, and other equipment at the water pollution control facility.  Keystone has successfully assisted WPCF for the past several years on a time and material basis and so they would like to award a contract on a time and materials basis in the amount not to exceed $25,000.  This is in the Capital Budget.

5. Proposed Ordinance to Ban Single Use Plastic Bags

Ms. Mailander stated that this was discussed, and the Hoboken ordinance was provided to the Village Council.  Councilman Sedon stated that this was supported by REAC and The Green Team, and he has gone through the ordinance as an example.  The definitions would need to be defined for Ridgewood, and some of the things that came up were the fee for paper bags and some people have tried that and it hasn’t worked out all that well.  It is something that is up for discussion and he wasn’t sure they needed to dictate what the fee is, but suggested allowing businesses to dictate that.  The remedies section talks about how the City of Hoboken shall assist operators and retail establishments by directing them to the websites for information.  Councilman Sedon suggested that for Ridgewood, REAC and The Green Team would be willing to direct businesses to helpful resources to be in compliance with the ordinance.  In terms of enforcement, it would be Code Enforcement or a Zoning Officer who would enforce this.  There is also a six month lag, so instead of 20 days if the ordinance should pass, the Village would like to use the six months to begin to engage the community.  He added that they should remove the 2.25 mils thickness, because people might get a slightly thicker plastic bag if they wanted a way around that.  Paper bags shouldn’t have the post-consumer recycled material amounts required for businesses to offer.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she appreciated the paper bag and the five cents cost, but she wholly disagreed with requiring the five cent fee.  Stores used to give five cents for every regular bag that was brought in and when they stopped doing that she felt bad as it was important to her.  She doesn’t think that while she always brings reusable bags, she doesn’t know that five cents was an incentive enough either way.  She stated that the businesses should decide whether or not they want to charge, but if the Village Council does that, then they are dictating a tax on residents for using a paper bag.

Councilman Sedon added that the exemption for individuals on Federal assistance or the SNAP program should be included if you are requiring the fee for a paper bag.  If it is left open ended, that business could charge a fee if they felt it was necessary, then it would need to be included.

Councilman Voigt asked if it was five cents per paper bag, so if it was a double paper bag it would be ten cents.  He agreed with Councilwoman Knudsen that people shouldn’t be charged for the paper bags.  He suggested that when there is a warning and first, second, third violation, he wondered if they should consider a time frame of two weeks to adjust if they violate again.

Mayor Hache stated that he loved the idea of the six month lag, as this is a cultural shift and takes time.  He added that the more that they educate the public, the better.  There was some discussion about distributing reusable bags.  He was conflicted about the fee, because he saw it from the point of view of the consumer and the grocer.  By forcing people to pay for the bags that they need to use, and then they are also having to pay for the bags.  Paper bags also have a lower adverse impact, but there is an impact on the grocer as well in needing to buy more expensive bags.  He added that a happy medium could be that if you bring your own bags you aren’t charged the fee.  Councilman Sedon suggested that there might be something in the exemptions that you could bring any type of bag to carry out the groceries without being charged for it.

Councilwoman Walsh stated that in Suffolk County, Long Island it is a law and people just pay the fee, but the grocery store only has paper bags and the reusable plastic bags.  The grocery stores could switch to that type of bag as their plastic, but there is a cost that will be passed on to the consumer.  She suggested changing the behavior and getting the bags available.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that if the grocery store was going to charge five cents a bag, because they were imposing the fee, then she would be sure to remember her bags the next time.  Councilman Sedon stated that instead of putting in a range they should put in that an establishment may charge for bags.  There was some discussion about the wording regarding allowing for the charge of bags.  Councilwoman Knudsen asked why even have the line saying that they may charge.  There was a decision to leave it open ended.

Ms. Mailander stated that she was hearing different things, so with the paper bags she understands saying “may” so at least then it’s in there.  In Hoboken they made it no more than 25 cents a bag, and asked if the Council wanted to give a price, or let someone charge $1.00 for a paper bag.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she felt they should ban the plastic bags and let the retailer charge whatever they want for the paper bags as the market would define what could be charged for the bag.  There was agreement to remove the line about charging for paper bags. 

Councilwoman Walsh asked if they heard back from the supermarkets, but there was no contact yet.  Councilman Sedon stated that the subcommittee tried to reach out to them, too.  Whole Foods is already there, and Kings is halfway there, but Stop and Shop is corporate, so it is hard to get in touch to discuss anything local.  There are Stop and Shops in Massachusetts where they have such a ban, so they would probably just apply what they already do there to here.

Ms. Mailander stated that the Hoboken ordinance states that the retail establishment may provide a reusable bag at their own fee, and asked if that was something to include.  There was an agreement that the price didn’t have to be dictated.  She added that there was a section about exemptions and that it would go before the Mayor and Council.  Councilman Sedon agreed that he had lines through it, the only thing he left was Federal assistance.

Ms. Mailander stated that the execution assistance would come from REAC and The Green Team, and she would talk to Mr. Rogers about who would enforce.  She asked if the Village Council was okay with the fines that are being charged based on the violations.  Mayor Hache stated that in talking about the exemptions, the fee for exemption requests he wanted to make sure that was removed.  There was agreement that the fines were okay.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she agreed you had to have some teeth in this.  Councilman Sedon asked if there was a standard fee schedule.  Mr. Rogers stated that it depends upon the nature of the violation and how serious you consider it.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that $500 was high.  Ms. Mailander asked if everyone was alright with $100, $200, $300 for the violations.  Councilman Sedon stated that there should be time to allow them to correct their behavior.  Ms. Mailander stated that the Hoboken violation allows them to be day after day.

Mr. Rogers stated that you won’t be able to go there each day to enforce this because there are too many to cover, so you have to understand that giving the Judge the opportunity to use his discretion depending on the nature of the circumstances with each of the summonses will dictate the fines that are given out.  Ms. Mailander asked if a court appearance would be required.  Mr. Rogers stated that if it was contested, a court appearance would be required.  Councilwoman Knudsen asked if they could require a court appearance on the third violation.  Mr. Rogers stated that they would look into it and see if that could be included as part of the ordinance and what the best way to do that would be.

Ms. Mailander stated that they would bring back a reworked ordinance for review and then go from there.  Councilman Sedon stated that would give REAC and The Green Team time to come back as well.  Ms. Mailander stated that her guess was that they would introduce this in April or May, giving time for REAC and The Green Team to review it.

1. Operations

1. Berm Designs for Schedler Property

Ms. Mailander stated that this was to discuss how the Village Council wanted to berm and fence, and that way they would know how to proceed to go out for bid.

Mr. Rutishauser stated that he was coming back with some of the instruction that the Village Council gave him for the berm design.  To finalize the design, one of the key issues would be how tall it should be.  Ms. Mailander suggested going through each design.  Mr. Rutishauser provided a handout to the Village Council showing berm designs that were earth sloped without stone facing or concrete block facing.  One was depicted at six feet and the other at three and a half feet, he added that they showed the fence that was suggested by Councilwoman Walsh, however he didn’t recall if there was a preferred height at four feet or six feet.  The fence they are considering is similar to the Graydon Pool fence, which would look relatively attractive in the background.

Mr. Rutishauser stated that the third page has an earth and berm cross section but they are facing it along Route 17 with boulders which they got from one of the multifamily housing projects and this would be a nice way to reutilize them.  It also provides a hardened face so if a vehicle were to collide with this, the boulders would help slow it down.  Councilman Sedon asked if they had enough boulders to line the whole area right now.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that he didn’t believe so, but they have been collecting them.

Mr. Rutishauser stated that the next design is a six point seven foot high berm that has a concrete block facing along Route 17 to create a wall.  These are precast concrete clocks that would be assembled, facing the berm.

Mr. Rutishauser added that he left in the timber barrier as a reference point as he believes the Village Council was not in favor of it last time.

Councilman Sedon asked if they could do a more solid fence on the berm.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that could be done, but if you put a six foot stockade fence you wont see the trees that are being planted at the top of the berm.  Councilwoman Knudsen asked if the trees were going in front of the fence.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that they show the fence in front, and they could put the fence behind the trees, but the fence was intended to stop a wayward child and once they get on top of the berm they are already out of parental sight.  Mayor Hache stated that he thought it was more difficult to climb a fence if you were going up at an angle than on flat surface.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she liked the idea of the boulders and reusing something.  She asked when they would know whether or not they had enough.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that they would have to count them, as they are spread out in a pile at the construction yard and they would have to be transported to the property to be counted.  They can also face as much of the berm as they can and if they run out of boulders they would then have the berm slope down to the highway edge.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that they could get creative with the boulders as well.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that the boulders would look more scenic in the landscape design sense.

Ms. Mailander asked what height the Village Council wanted for the berm. There was consensus regarding the six foot berm with a six foot fence.  They type of berm will be earth cross-section with the boulder facing on the Route 17 side.  Ms. Mailander added that there would be guardrail, as well.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that the fence would be Graydon style.  Ms. Mailander added that the trees and stumps along the highway would be removed and then replaced with new trees.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that he would prepare what was discussed into a resolution for the Village Council’s discussion.

2. Approve Grant Application – Sustainable Jersey Composting Pilot Program

Councilman Sedon stated that REAC has been looking at ways to compost food waste for two years and they realized that it would be very difficult to implement it Village-wide and there is really no infrastructure in Bergen County right now to accept food waste and compost it.  They found a company in Long Island that would be willing to come to New Jersey to collect some composted material but they needed at least 120 households to participate.  They were able to go out and speak with some surrounding communities.  Glen Rock and Fair Lawn were interested in joining in the pilot which would have two 48 gallon bins at the recycling center and Ridgewood would pull in 60 residents for a pilot program and then Glen Rock and Fair Lawn would have 30 residents in each town.  This would also give them some metrics as to how much food waster we are able to take out of the waste stream and there is a potential that the tipping fees would be reduced.  Councilman Sedon added that they could potentially save money if the pilot program works and there are ways to expand it.  If they get the grant from Sustainable Jersey it wouldn’t cost the Village any additional money.

3. Traffic Signal Improvements with Bergen County – Franklin Avenue

Ms. Mailander stated that the Village met with the County a couple weeks ago and they discussed this and she brought it to a Public Meeting so that the public will be aware of what will be happening.

Mayor Hache stated that this has been many years in the works, and the preliminary plan for Franklin Avenue in terms of improvements and bump outs for the curbs and narrowing the crosswalks.  Some of the improvements are at the corners and curbs to allow for a greater turning radius.  At Franklin and Maple, now there are problems with buses making turns as they have taken out part of the curb on a few occasions.  This is looking at Franklin Avenue from the improvements that were needed before, but also the impact of the development that is going to be happening on or around Franklin with the increases in traffic flow and changes in the traffic pattern.  Part of the discussion was about improving the crosswalks for that area as there have been some pedestrian strikes.  They also talked about design elements that would make the crosswalks more visible.  He questioned how pedestrian traffic would be impacted once KS Broad was completed.

Mayor Hache stated that they still have to determine the allocation, as part of the cost involves the Village, another part is the County, and what the developers would be responsible for.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that this discussion started in 2016 and some of the areas that they were discussing, as Councilman Voigt will recall, part of the site plan application for the development projects and particularly the Ken Smith site.  They endeavored to take a look at the Ridgewood Avenue, Franklin, Oak, Broad, intersections, under the trestle and West Ridgewood Avenue as one corridor, and how were they going to make this work with all of the new development and all of the past issues they had before the development.  She stated that they have worked out a lot of details, such as how wide the street would be and where pedestrian crosswalks would be.  She thanked Chris Rutishauser and Jovan Mehandzig because they came to this meeting with the Village Manager and she felt they have a really good product here.  At this point they are also going to work out the details with the County, and everyone would take their piece of the work as they move forward and see how to get this funded in the most efficient manner.  This is all on hold until the development projects are completed.

Ms. Mailander stated that the County would be responsible for traffic design, electrical, and preparing the specification for bidding.  The Village would be responsible for the survey, the acquisition of property, the construction plans and possibly bidding it out, although the County said they may do that.  In addition, the County did say it could take a couple of years before it is bid out because we are one of many projects throughout the County.  If the Village continues to move this along, then maybe we would move ahead of someone that isn’t moving as quickly, then the Village may get it done sooner.

Councilman Voigt asked if they considered Wilsey/Garber Square as part of this.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that it was a part of the discussions but they decided to leave it at this corridor and then will work their way to that piece of it, primarily because no matter what they do they have to wait for these projects.  They are waiting for certain things with the Enclave, Ken Smith property, and the Chestnut Village to come to completion.  The first part of this is the obligations of each party.  Whatever the Village’s cost is, they would take the money from the developers and then assign it to these.  It will all be incorporated ultimately.

Councilman Voigt stated that his other concern was about changes in administration and what if someone comes in who isn’t in favor of this project.  He asked if they could get this etched in stone so no matter what happens with the political climate, they are able to get it done.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that a couple of years ago, the County wanted to do Linwood Avenue and they asked to hold it and apply it to this job, so that funding will also be there.  They are working with the County to get this moved forward, and the County has a vested interest in seeing this go through.  She added that they seemed to be sincere and she didn’t know if a change in administration would change much.  Councilman Voigt stated that the Village had a situation where they were promised four lights and then got just one.

Councilwoman Walsh stated that the County had an obligation to make this a safe road as they own the road.  The developments are coming and are going to be completed and they can’t be completed with an unfinished road, as you can’t have that volume come in and have an unfinished road.  Councilwoman Knudsen added that the County had to approve the site plans as well, so they see this.  She added that in one of the site plans there was an encroachment into the easement and the County had them correct it.  She stated it was important for the Village Council to reinforce the concept that this wasn’t a political issue but it was public safety issue.

Mr. Rogers stated that he wasn’t part of the discussions before, so he doesn’t know how far the County committed on these things; however, they did sign off and the County had to approve the applications because Ken Smith is on a County road.  The other side of this is that these really are negotiation issues and he thinks they ought to take them from the standpoint of how they are going to approach the County and what they are going to do.  He suggested discussing it in Closed Session.

Ms. Mailander stated that the County would be sending a Shared Services Agreement for the Village to review.  Mr. Rogers stated that Shared Services is a statutory agreement that expresses the contractual relationship between two governmental entities and it is really what you look for.  Councilman Voigt stated that he assumed that would guarantee this project was going to happen.  Mr. Rogers and Mayor Hache were in agreement that a Shared Services Agreement was what you look for in this situation as it binds the County as much as you can, to this project.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that crosswalk locations were part of developing the plan and now they were at that point to move forward.

Councilman Sedon asked how the bike lanes would function with the parking spaces and traffic lanes.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that the corridor from Broad Street to Franklin Avenue will not have delineated bike lanes because they have on-street parking as marking them makes it confusing for all parties.  There are bike lanes on streets that have parking, and the County has a concern and it was one of the discussion items.  They agreed not to address it at this time.  The County agreed on the bump outs, which are a big pedestrian safety feature, but they also have to maintain some of the parking on Franklin because of the dire need for parking in the Village. 

4. Intersections and East Ridgewood Avenue/North Maple Avenue Intersection

See above.

5. Parking Lot and Patio Design for Schedler Property

Mr. Rutishauser stated that a portion of the project development is renovating the historic Schedler home which is expected to go to bid in the next couple of months and is anticipated to be completed this year.  Part of making the house a useful, viable asset for the community is providing parking for the potential users.  They developed a parking lot and also have a patio area to the south of the building from which the home’s primary entrance would face and open up to.  This was developed with Nancy Bigos, with a patio area and a trellis over it for anybody renting the home to have an event.

Mr. Rutishauser stated that the parking has 54 spaces, and they may have to add one or two more handicapped spaces, as there were just two at this time. 

Councilman Sedon stated that he liked the patio idea, and that it would be a good feature at the house, which he mentioned a few months ago at a meeting.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that adding the patio is a nice detail because it is consistent with those discussions that they had with Margaret Hickey about the way this house could be used as a rental for small parties, showers, and meetings, and brings in the outdoor piece that is a nice touch.

Councilwoman Knudsen asked how the 54 parking spaces were determined.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that they anticipated that number of spaces for the use of the facility, also for the small field which the younger kids will play on and there are usually more parents coming to their games.

Councilman Voigt asked if there was a size restriction on the cars going into the parking lot.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that there wasn’t a restriction.  They would probably use the 9 by 20 space, or 9 by 18 depth and a two foot overhang at the curb.

Councilwoman Knudsen asked if they could discuss the park area and the structure that was on the map.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that was a restroom area as a placeholder on the site map.  He stated that if someone comes in, they can pull along the sidewalk and discharge their children for playing on the field on the passenger side.  There is room there for five or six vehicles.  Councilwoman Knudsen asked how big the bathroom structure is.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that it was just a blob right now and nothing has been discussed, but he thinks the committee discussed two unisex seats.  Councilman Sedon stated that they decided to go with two unisex rooms with a roof that has an overhang so if there is a storm somebody could run under there to seek shelter.  Mayor Hache stated that they had spoken about a six foot overhang as a lightening shelter.

Councilwoman Knudsen suggested that as they are starting to work on that, she would suggest moving the structure back, closer to along the walkway by the highway, and moving the play area back into that spot as that the kid spot is too close to West Saddle River Road.  Mayor Hache added that there would be a fence around it.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she just felt that it was too close even with a fence.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that these locations are being used as placeholders at the moment and will still go through discussion before the final locations are determined.

Ms. Mailander asked if everyone approved of the parking lot and patio area.  There was consensus among the Village Council.

5. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

Before opening for public comment, Mr. Rogers stated that he thought the Village Council might like to make an announcement regarding the Settlement Agreement between the Village and Fair Share Housing Center.  On Monday, they were in Court for the Fairness Hearing with regard to the Settlement Agreement between the Village and the Fair Share Housing Center.  Every town has an obligation to provide low and moderate income housing within its boundaries.  The Settlement Agreement embodies the commitment that the Village makes toward providing affordable housing to low and moderate income families and persons in the Village.  That agreement was spelled out in a multipage agreement that the Village entered into in December.  The Court scheduled a Fairness Hearing this past Monday, and the Court issued its decision of approval which says that the agreement is a fair and reasonable method for the Village to provide a realistic opportunity for low and moderate income housing in the Village to promote housing for people with low and moderate income levels.  He added that this was a significant step towards satisfying our obligation and getting the certification for this round which has been overseen by the Courts.  Mr. Rogers stated that every town has to go through this to satisfy its mandate.  They will go forward to approve some ordinances to permit affordable housing.

Mayor Hache stated that the Village Council talked about the Village celebrating 125 years this year.  One of the challenges is that the actual date is November 20^th.  So, if they want to have people come out and use the outdoor space, they should do it during nicer weather, and he suggested summer or early fall.  They will put out a casting call for volunteers to help with the planning, adding that Glen Rock is doing something similar with a weekend of celebration.  He spoke to the Chamber of Commerce to get a group from the Chamber and Guild to come up with some ideas and how to raise the funds to have the celebrations.  He asked Ms. Mailander to put something on the website regarding interested volunteers.

Bill McCandless, 71 Ridge Road, stated that every six months he writes an email to the Village Council reminding them of the issues at Garber Square which continues to be a disaster and it need not be so.  In May 2014, the Village began its degradation of that intersection and has done nothing to improve it since.  For years the Village denied it was a problem, but thankfully the Village Council brought in some traffic experts that proved that it is the most crowded of the Village intersections, but nothing has happened to make it better.  He added that he was happy to hear that it was part of the corridor discussions but those resolutions sounded years away and won’t help tomorrow morning at 7:30 A.M. when traffic is backed up on Ridgewood Avenue. 

Mr. McCandless added that it would cost zero to change the timing of the light to allow cars on Ridgewood Avenue to make a left turn.  This was done on Van Dien at the high school several years ago.  Also, in the last several years, it has been discussed removing the single parking spot in the right hand lane on Ridgewood Avenue, but it hasn’t happened.  He added that it is beyond him why they choose not to do things that cost nothing and allow this to fester.  Emails are not responded to when there are requests for this problem to be solved.  It is unfathomable that the Village will not address this problem at the most congested intersection in town.

Serena Iacoviello, 363 Downs Street, thanked the Village Council for discussing the ban on plastic bags as well as the fee on paper bags.  It is estimated that the average American family uses 1,500 single use plastic bags every single year.  In order to provide those plastic bags, you are using 12 million barrels of oil.  She stated that in terms of convenience, people are unwilling to consider the repercussions of their actions.  Ms. Iacoviello stated that the fee on paper bags is an important aspect of this ordinance as in order to enact it in a strong way, they need to incorporate it to get consumers to change their behavior.  To assume that people wouldn’t change their behavior based on the fee is to assume that the Village couldn’t educate the public on these issues.  She said that they shouldn’t be seeing an overall decrease in profits of the businesses just to reduce the wastes of this town and she asked that the Village Council act responsibly to omit any loopholes from this proposed ordinance.  She asked that Ridgewood enact some strong environmental policies.  She seemed encouraged about the ban on plastic bags and asked that they reconsider the fee on paper bags.

Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that the Village Manager was explaining that there is a Board of Education election and she asked if they could get clarification if that was for the BOE budget proposal or for electing BOE trustees.  She added that regarding the train station parking lot that was approved months ago and they were told that it wasn’t going to start for a while and she didn’t understand why and asked for an update on that project.

Bob Upton, 172 West Glen Avenue, REAC Chair, thanked the Village Council for considering the plastic bag ban.  He stated that plastic bags are the main issue and the big concern that they wanted to address.  Like the Mayor, he was conflicted about how forceful they would need to be about the fee on the paper bags.  He shared the thoughts with the other members of the committee, and they have all forcefully persuaded him that it is important to push for a fee on the paper bags because after they consider plastic the paper bags themselves, although they are recyclable, they are still a single use product and contributing to the waste stream.  He added that they want to change people’s habits and while some feel that they don’t need to legislate in order to change people’s habits, it was pointed out to him that the method to change people’s habits about smoking, seat belts, and lawn sprinklers is to legislate.  Mr. Upton added that they felt it was an important part of the legislation, and most of the other ordinances have, in addition to the ban, included a fee for the single use paper bag.

Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that he noted that two times within the last 30 days the Village Manager has felt a need to make a comment regarding dogs at Memorial Park at Van Neste Square.  He stated that he does not advocate unleashed dogs anywhere in the Village, but there seems to be some confusion as to which parks dogs are allowed in and looking at the Village Code 212-29, there is some confusion about this.  It says that dogs are prohibited at Citizens, Graydon, Pleasant Park, Twinney Pond, Memorial Park at Van Neste, and Veterans Memorial Field.  That is not a complete listing of the parks in Ridgewood.  The code goes on to read that dogs are only permitted at Irene Habernickel and Schedler.  There are some parks that are not noted in here, but yet, it says that it is only permitted at those two locations, and he wasn’t sure about the Dunham Trail as people walk their dogs on leash there all the time.  Mr. Loving asked that the Code be clarified to include all of the parks.

Councilwoman Knudsen asked Ms. Mailander for clarification on the parks, for an update on the train station parking lot, and she felt that the points that Mr. McCandless raised were fair and something they could look at.  Mayor Hache stated that the Board of Education is a budget vote in April, and the next elections will not be until April 2020 for candidates and budget.

Ms. Mailander told Mr. McCandless that she would be meeting with the Village Engineer to discuss what they can do quickly to try to fix those easy things as he indicated.  They have not yet had a chance to meet this week, but she appreciated his comments and they would see what they could do.  She asked Mr. Rutishauser to speak about the train station parking lot as she know that the plans have been finalized but she didn’t know if the specs had been written for the bid.

Mr. Rutishauser stated that they have been in touch with the contractor, and he is ready to come to work but it has to be above freezing for the concrete.  The request has been sent to the Parks Department to get the trees removed.  They have to coordinate with the farmers market which generally occupies the northern corner of the parking lot and they will mostly be working in the southern and central parts.  Councilwoman Knudsen asked what the timeline was to get everything done when the weather breaks.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that he was guessing it would be about two months and they were coordinating to have this done before the garage.

Mayor Hache closed public comments, but added that the observation about the dogs is important to clarify.

6. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION

Deputy Village Clerk, Donna Jackson read Resolution #19-60 to go into Closed Session as follows:

7. 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 Work Session was adjourned at 10:11 P.M.

______________________________

                                                                                                      Ramon M. Hache, Sr.                              

                                                                                                                        Mayor                           

______________________________

              Donna M. Jackson

           Deputy Village Clerk

A REGULAR WORK SESSION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOD, NEW JERSEY ON FEBRUARY 6, 2019 AT 7:30 P.M.

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

Mayor Hache called the meeting to order at 7:30 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; Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney; and Donna Jackson, Deputy Village Clerk.  

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 and all our first responders.

2. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

Rurik Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, stated that he wrote an email to the Village Manager concerning the Village website and he wanted to make sure that it was included in the records of the meeting.  He stated that it was embarrassing that we have such a mediocre website, and asked that in the Closed Session, the Village Council ask Councilwoman Knudsen to cease and desist with her involvement in the process of developing the website.  He asked that the Village Manager work with Dylan Hansen to get the work done uses the resources of an outside professional service.  Mr. Halaby recommended the Village Council look at the website of Franklin Lakes and Westfield, which he feels are two websites that are far superior to that of the Village of Ridgewood.  Both of these websites are run by GovOffice, a company that specializes in municipal websites, and the charge is $5,000 on the front end plus $1,000 annually for their services.  He also suggested that Mr. Rogers has a session with the Village Council explaining what the Faulkner Act is all about.

Mr. Halaby added that he had an email sent by Mayor Hache regarding the activities of the Village Council this past year.  In principle, he appreciates communications of the sort, and it is important that the Mayor follows in the footsteps of Mayor Aronsohn by keeping the residents up to date on what’s going on.  He added that the letter came across as that of a College senior padding his or her resume, and how to lay the groundwork for a politician seeking higher office.  He stated that whatever achievements this Council can claim are more than offset by their dismal failures.

Mr. Halaby stated that the Hudson Street garage should have been finished three years ago, which would have been a garage that has 100 more spaces for the same amount of money.  To cover their tracks for the delay and the fewer spaces, they proceed to vandalize a historic pocket park, cutting down seventeen mostly healthy, mature trees for a measly 38 compact spaces.  He added that each of these trees produces enough oxygen in a year to supply six of us for a year.  He then went through the different types of parking throughout the Village.

Mr. Halaby stated that one achievement that the Village Council can claim is that apartments are finally going up, only when it became clear COAH and the courts had a gun to the Council’s head.

3. MANAGERS REPORT

2019 First Quarter Property Taxes – Ms. Mailander stated that she wanted to remind everyone that the 2019 first quarter property taxes were due February 1^st.  There is a ten day grace period, and they are due in the Tax Collectors office no later than Monday, February 11^th.  A postmark is not acceptable, and it has to be received by that date.  It can be mailed to the Tax Collector in Village Hall, or dropped in the yellow mailbox located at the main entrance by the lobby door.  She added that you may also pay taxes online at www.ridgewoodnj.net.  Ms. Mailander stated that office hours are 8:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M.

Meet the Mayor – Ms. Mailander stated that Mayor Hache would meet with residents on an appointment-only basis on Saturday, February 9^th, from 9:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M.  She encouraged interested residents to contact the Village Clerk’s Office to make an appointment.  If there are no scheduled appointments, the session will be rescheduled to the next month.

Jamboree – Ms. Mailander stated that Jamboree is an annual fundraiser supporting scholarships for graduates of Ridgewood High School. The program is an original show that includes volunteer parents singing and dancing.  February 6^th is the dress rehearsal which is free to the public, and the shows on the 7^th, 8^th and 9^th at Ben Franklin Middle School. 

Village Hall Closure – Ms. Mailander stated that Village Hall and all Village Offices would be closed Tuesday, February 12^th and Monday, February 18^th in observance of Lincoln’s Birthday and the Presidents Day holidays.  There will be no sanitation or recycling pickup on these days, and the Recycling Center will also be closed.

4. COUNCIL REPORTS

Jamboree – Councilwoman Knudsen stated that Jamboree is a great show with a lot of surprises.  They have two Broadway stars this year singing two pieces, and it is really amazing and exciting, held on Thursday, Friday and Saturday night.  This fundraiser is a need-based scholarship program and gives opportunities to students to attend college.  The Jamboree has given away over a million dollars to students who otherwise would not be able to afford college. 

Interfaith Religious Leaders of Ridgewood – Councilwoman Knudsen stated that yesterday morning, she and Mayor Hache attended the Interfaith Religious Leaders of Ridgewood meeting, and Michael Tozzolini from West Bergen Mental Healthcare was there as a special speaker, and spoke about all of their offerings which is really a great resource for the Village.  She added that Michael handed out cards listing some of the services provided at 120 Chestnut.  West Bergen Mental Healthcare was founded in 1963, and as the needs of the community grew, so did West Bergen.  Some of their services include anxiety disorders program, attention deficit, hyperactivity disorders, community resource program, depression, developing social skills, divorce counseling, individuals and couples counseling, psychiatric services, rainbow resources, school based education resources, and more.  

Do Politics Belong in the Congregation: Peace and Justice Forum, will be held Tuesday, February 26^th at 7:00 P.M. at Emmanuel in Ridgewood on Hope Street.  Everyone who would like to attend was invited to become part of the conversation, listen to the panel discussion, and join in.

Master Plan – Councilwoman Knudsen stated that the Master Plan Visioning Process continues.  Everyone can log on to visionridgewood.org, and they will be doing a Village wide mailer within the next two to three weeks which will invite everyone to log on and take the survey, which takes about 10 to 12 minutes to complete.  If anyone does not have access to a computer, they should contact the Village Clerk to get a hard copy survey mailed to their home address.

Chamber of Commerce – Councilwoman Walsh stated that a Chamber member made a call to her the other day in light of the Village Council looking at the ordinances for the outdoor café and the distances mentioned.  The topic came up regarding warm days and individuals that want to dine out in the winter.  With the possible ordinance change, the sidewalks have to be clear. Is there the possibility that during nice weather, tables could be set up and individuals can be seated outside.  She added that the Village Council members received an email from Paul Vaggianos talking about that.

Councilwoman Walsh added that there was a question about the distances regarding opening car doors, and if they were going to have the 30 and 52 inch distance.  What would be the happy medium with tree wells which may block some areas.

Mayor Hache stated that the narrowing of the space comes into play when you have 52 inches and then a planter close to the sidewalk.  A tree well wouldn’t affect the ordinance, you are only effected in areas where there isn’t a tree well and then you have tables and a planter close to the curb.  Councilwoman Walsh stated that if you have a 30 inch distance from the curb so that you can open the door, in some areas it would move the barrier. 

Councilman Voigt asked how many businesses are effected because some of the angle parking spaces on Broad Street don’t have the issue of 30 inches, but it’s the people who have parallel parking.  He asked whether they were unintentionally biasing those businesses and suggested it should be discussed.

Mayor Hache stated in the way the ordinance is written now, it is really for the businesses that have no parking spaces in front of the curb, and they shouldn’t need to have a 30 inch clearance from the door in those cases.  If they kept the 30 inch minimum where there isn’t a parking spot, there are at least two or three businesses that would be effected.

Councilwoman Walsh asked if they would leave it to the property owner or shop proprietor to come to the Village Council with specific instances.  Mayor Hache stated that for simplicity purposes it was going to be across the board because the inside edge of the break band is 30 inches, which would be easy for violation officers.  However, for businesses that don’t have parking in front they are suggesting eliminating that requirement.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that this issue was on the agenda, so they could discuss it later.

Library Scoop Night – Councilwoman Walsh stated that the Library would be hosting a Scoop Night at Ben and Jerry’s tonight or tomorrow night.  They will have Story Time on Thursday February 7^th Pajama Party; Thursday, March 7^th a Happy Birthday to Dr. Seuss; and Thursday, April 11^th Love Your Library.

Master Plan – Mayor Hache stated that the Visioning Process continues, on February 20^th at the Library Auditorium, when they will have two round table discussions.  The first discussion with business owners and commercial property owners, and the second with realtors.

Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration – Mayor Hache stated that the Committee of Ridgewood and Glen Rock will be hosting the gospel concert, this is an event that was supposed to have taken place during MLK Jr. weekend, but because of the weather it was moved to Sunday, February 17^th, featuring the voices of Mount Bethel, guest choirs, and more at 4:00 P.M. at Mount Bethel.

5. PRESENTATION

1. REAC – Ban on Single Use Plastic Bags

Councilman Sedon stated that Lisa Sommers and Bob Upton were there to give a wrap up regarding the proposed ban on single use plastic bags of this year-long study of what other towns are doing and reaching out to various groups in Ridgewood, the Chamber, and the Guild.  He added that they wanted to give the final presentation with their findings, and to wrap it all up to let everyone know what they have discovered.

Bob Upton, Chair of REAC, stated that Lisa Sommers and Ellie Gruber did a lot of the work on the project and made the original representation to the Council a little over a year ago.  He stated that they were proposing that the Village Council introduce an ordinance banning single use plastic bags in the Village.  There is a pending State law, but its future is uncertain.  Various environmental organizations are recommending that individual municipalities should move ahead with their own regulations to provide an indication to the State government that they are behind this.  He added that after the initial meeting it was suggested that they get some input from the community. They did a survey with the Chamber of Commerce and the Guild, and received four replies, three of them saying they supported an ordinance to restrict or reduce the use of plastic bags.  One of the asked for more information and subsequently agreed this was an acceptable proposal. They also made a presentation to the Central Business District.  Mr. Upton added that Ms. Sommers and Ms. Gruber also spoke to The Stablehands. In each case they got support from those groups.  He added that they handed a letter to the three main supermarkets in town, making them aware that they were proposing this and asking for comments and questions.  They got no response from them.

Mr. Upton stated that they have gathered a number of facts, and a fact sheet was included in the documents for the Village Council this evening.  It describes some statistics and the harm caused both environmental and economic by plastic bags.  As an example, plastic bags contribute to the Village’s waste stream that we have to pay to have hauled away.  Anything that can be removed from the waste stream helps us in that respect.  He added that plastic bags being improperly placed in recycling bins reduces the quality of our plastic recycling which reduces its value and makes it more difficult to recycle.  It also ties up any equipment used for processing the plastic.  Plastic bags cause litter in public parks, and eventually a lot of them end up in the rivers and work their way to the oceans.  He referenced a report produced for the State of New York, adding that Governor Cuomo, in his recent budget proposal for 2019, has recommended that NY State should adopt a state-wide ban on plastic bags.  Mr. Upton also referenced the Surfriders Foundation Activist Toolkit, which is an impressive compilation of facts and figures, and references regarding problems associated with plastic bags.

Mr. Upton stated that they were proposing that the Village should pass an ordinance along the line of the one that has been passed in Hoboken, which bans retailers and businesses from handing out single use plastic bags to their customers.  It places a fee on single use paper bags which are made available to any customers that require those bags, and the fee can by anywhere from ten to twenty five cents per bag at the discretion of the business, and the business gets to keep that fee.  The ordinance encourages the use of reusable bags, and requires a fee to be imposed if reusable bags are handed out because there is the danger that some people try to circumvent the bag ban by using thicker plastic.  Mr. Upton stated that he has seen some regulations that allow temporary exemptions in certain circumstances.  He added that they asked the Ridgewood Recycling Department for comment, and they said they were pleased to support the proposal of this important recycling endeavor.

Ms. Sommers stated that there are a number of ordinances they could have chosen as models, but they particularly like Hoboken’s because in addition to what Mr. Upton stated, people who really have financial issues are exempt.  She added that it takes into account a customer who is participating in any welfare program.

Councilman Sedon stated that when plastic bags get into the waste stream and go to the processing plant, if they get caught in the machines it could shut down the entire line for a couple of hours.  He added that the facts show how bad plastic bags eventually are.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she was glad Ms. Sommers raised the issue about the low income concern.  She stated that Stop and Shop added the turnstiles, which makes it more difficult to bag when she goes to the stores with the cloth bags.  She asked if there was a concern about what impact there would be using paper bags.  Mr. Upton stated that they hadn’t received any concerns expressed by the stores, but the entire state of California has banned plastic bags and they seem to be getting along okay.  He added that it is a matter of reeducation, and you get into the habit of bringing your own bags to the store.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that you used to get a nickel for using your own cloth bags, but they stopped doing it which removed the incentive for using them.

Councilwoman Knudsen asked what the difference in the weight of the single use versus multiple use paper bags.  Mr. Upton stated that it was in the proposed ordinance.  Councilman Sedon stated that the minimum was 2.25 mls thick.  Mr. Upton stated that might be equivalent to the type of bag that you would get from a department store, but its possible that grocery stores would determine that they could buy those bags more cheaply than paper bags. 

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that the green produce bags and then the bags for the meat department were not in the ordinance.  Mr. Upton stated that anything that you would use within the store are included in the ordinance and don’t count, rather it’s those that are given to you at the checkout.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that those are the same material.  Mr. Upton stated they were the same material and they wouldn’t reduce either.

Councilwoman Walsh stated that the heavier weight plastic bag is used by a grocery store that she goes to on Long Island, and if you don’t bring your own bags with you, you pay a nickel and it doesn’t seem to have effected anybody.  She added that the bag is a heavy weight and can be used over and over.  This is a behavior change, and the residents have to realize that you don’t just have one bag, but you may need to bring four or five bags with you.  Mr. Upton stated that his son and daughter got something from Amazon that is a small pouch stuffed with bags. 

Ms. Sommers added that there are so many communities where this has been done, and there is enough time to see how people are going to react.  Follow up data tends to be very positive for behavior, and that after awhile it’s not a big deal for people.  Mr. Upton stated that some of the statistics that are quoted in the studies have shown that if you are trying to discourage people from using plastic bags by charging a fee, but still allowing them, it hasn’t effected behavior.

Councilman Voigt stated that he supported what they were trying to do, adding that he was surprised that the supermarkets didn’t get back to them.  Understanding what their issues might be and getting this fixed for them would be important in getting this implemented much quicker.  He encouraged them to get some feedback from the grocery stores in town to see what their issues are.  Mr. Upton stated that Ms. Sommers and Ms. Gruber took letters to the stores and didn’t get a response.  He added that he visited the stores when they were trying to get people to participate in the Earth Day event and the response was to send an email that they would send the information to the head office.  One of the other concerns that people raise is that if they do this in Ridgewood aren’t people just going to go to Midland Park to do their shopping.  A lot of people have said that they have their habits for where they prefer to go to shop, and this won’t change. 

Mr. Upton stated that they are working with other communities in the area, and Glen Rock is very supportive but they don’t have a major grocery store.  He added that he was trying to contact people in Midland Park and Ho-Ho-Kus, but they don’t have environmental committees as far as he can determine.  Ms. Sommers stated that Whole Foods does not offer plastic, and Kings encouraged them to do the ban in the beginning of the process.  She added that there are times when you have to do what’s best even if people resist.  This is an issue that is pretty straightforward and the question is not why should we have a ban but what possible reason is there not to, given the overwhelming consequences.  Councilman Voigt stated that he was thinking along the lines of getting it implemented as soon as possible, so if they could find out the issues from the supermarkets, then they could address them more quickly.

Councilman Voigt stated that the provided ordinance was very helpful.  Mr. Upton stated that they were all along similar lines, but the one provided seemed to be a good starting point.

Mayor Hache stated that it is eye opening when you read all of the facts.  He stated that naturally, people resist change, but he didn’t think people were going to go to Midland Park to shop.  Whole Foods uses paper bags, and he is surprised, because in a lot of supermarkets they sell the reusable plastic bags.  The Mayor thinks this is going to be a positive thing and what they are trying to do now a lot of other municipalities will follow.  Mr. Upton stated that they spoke about the possibility of buying some bags handing them out through a promotion, but they felt that if they were going to do that, it would be better to do it when an ordinance is passed by way of publicizing and promoting it.  He added that several people said that there seem to be so many of the reusable bags around that people don’t need more of them.

Mayor Hache stated that one of the things Councilman Sedon mentioned was that they adopt an ordinance but delay the enforcement to allow a period for education purposes and then possibly distribute the reusable bags and start driving the behavior that way.  Mr. Upton stated that Hoboken’s took six months.  Ms. Sommers stated that she felt six months would be enough time.  Mayor Hache asked if they mapped out what this awareness campaign would look like.  Mr. Upton stated that they have attempted to get to the groups, and there are some groups that Councilman Sedon extended invitations to.  He added that Earth Day is a good opportunity to promote something like this, but they also felt it was a good idea to bring this to the Council to raise awareness and invite comment.

Councilman Sedon added that if they were going to take this up, they would have to discuss at a work session exactly what this would look like for Ridgewood, and then discuss it at two public meetings.  He stated that now if they were looking for this to move forward, it would take at least two or two and a half months if they did it as fast as they possibly could, and in that timespan they allow for meetings to come up with a plan knowing that this is going forward.

Ms. Mailander asked if the Council was planning to look at a proposed ordinance at the February 27^th meeting and then possibly introduce it in March and discuss it more fully at that time.  Mr. Rogers stated that he would like to meet with the members of REAC to make sure that they covered everything in the ordinance.

1. DISCUSSION

1. Ridgewood Water

1. Award Cooperative Purchasing Contract - Grainger

Ms. Mailander stated that Ridgewood Water anticipates that they will reach the statutory limit of $17,500 for these materials and therefore is in need of a Council resolution to purchase these items for 2019.  Funding will be in the Water Operating Budget, and it will be awarded to Grainger in South Plainfield, in an amount not to exceed $85,000 for various materials and supplies that they need during the year.

1. Parking

1. Name of Parking Garage

Ms. Mailander stated that she wanted a consensus from the Village Council because the name will be precast into the concrete.  Some suggested names are: Hudson Street Parking Garage; The Hudson Street Parking Garage; Hudson Street Garage; The Hudson Street Garage; The Parking Garage at Hudson Street; Hudson Street; or anything the Village Council may come up with.

There was consensus from the Village Council that the name should be Hudson Street Garage.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that maybe it should say Hudson Garage, because when they precast, depending on the size, they may get a bigger bolder Hudson Garage, where they would get a narrower Hudson Street Garage.  Mayor Hache stated that Hudson Street Garage was fine.  Councilwoman Walsh asked what the Fire House was called.  Ms. Mailander stated that it was probably Hudson Street Fire House. 

Mr. Rogers stated that they should ask Epic how large the area is, and how small Hudson Street Garage would look compared to Hudson Garage.  Ms. Mailander stated that if it is big enough the would do Hudson Street Garage, but if it wasn’t Hudson Garage.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that it sounded better as Hudson Street Garage, however, given the size the visual may be better.  There was some discussion among the Councilmembers, with a determination that Hudson Street Garage was best.

2. Parking Garage Bond Sale – Summary of Bids

Mr. Rooney stated that the Village got an outstanding rate on the sale of their bonds.  They had eleven bids, which is very unusual for a municipality.  Of the eleven bids, they had eight who submitted proposals for the bonds.  The successful bidder was Citigroup Global Markets with a net interest charge of 3.309, premium of about $300,000 and these numbers were adjusted after the award to get it to conform to even numbers for their maturity schedules.  In essence, they had a $11.6 million par; $540,000 premium; for a total of $12,140,000 of which the Village will get $12,00,907 proceeds for the sale.

3. Parking Garage Bond Sale – Source and Use of Funds

Mr. Rooney stated that he provided the Village Council with the source and use of funds.  It showed how the funds would be applied to construction costs, and some of the amounts that they put into the ordinance for funding.  He also showed the amortization of debt up to 2048, so the coupons range from 5 to 3.5, but after the premium that results in the 3.3 rate.  The financial advisors told the Village after the sale that was the lowest rate they had seen and was an outstanding result due to the Village’s AAA rating that it has been able to maintain.

Councilman Voigt asked about the annual debt service maximum average of $661,000 and average debt of $645,000 and how they would allocate yearly for an expense for the garage when they go through budgets.  Mr. Rooney stated that in the first two years they have capitalized interest that gets charged to the ordinance, after that the operating budget picks up the principle and interest.  Walker, in their study, indicated when they have to have rate increases based upon the debt service at the time, and he would provide this to them to put it into concrete what the debt service is and find out if there are any modifications that have to be made.

1. Budget

1. Award Additional Contract – Infrared Asphalt Restoration

Ms. Mailander stated that the Village awarded a contract through June 30, 2018.  With that they received three bid packages, and the low bidder was J. Fletcher Creamer Construction.  They would like to award additional work for the second year of the contract in an amount not to exceed $200,000 through June 30, 2019.  The intent is to have available means to restore Village streets and streets in the Water Company’s service areas to a “new condition” after there has been an excavation.

1. Policy

1. Proposed Amendment to Dumpster Ordinance

Ms. Mailander stated that there is currently an ordinance for refuse containers that are on public property.  They defined private property in the amendments, and require a permit for both placing on public and private.  For private property, a permit is supposed to be received after a week of it being there.  The first issuance is for 30 days, after that there are two possible renewals for up to 6 months each.  There is no limit in size, however, they do have areas where they can and cannot be placed.

Ms. Mailander stated that it was one refuse container per property at one time.  It has to be located within ten feet of the property line unless its located on a driveway.  It should have a decal from the Building Department saying that it has a permit.  It must remain in good repair and there must be no leakage from the container.  It must be removed prior to the expiration of the permit unless another permit is obtained, if not, then the Village can remove it from the property.

There are penalties for non-compliance.  The permit fee for private property is proposed at $25 per month.  If they get the second renewal after 30 days then that is when they pay the $25 per month up to six months.

Councilman Voigt asked if they were suggesting to the applicant where the dumpster should be.  Mr. Yotka stated that they took excerpts from the temporary storage container ordinance, so a survey is going to be required and they would place it in an area agreeable to the contractor and to comply with the ordinance.  They will maintain distances from the property line and principle structure, with no obstruction to pedestrian or vehicular traffic.  Councilman Voigt asked if there were fines for them not putting the dumpster in the correct location.  Mr. Yotka stated that they didn’t expressly address that in the ordinance but they could.

Ms. Mailander stated that any violation of and provision of the chapter is $150 to $2,000.  Councilman Voigt stated that if they put the dumpster somewhere else on the property there is no way to say that they have to move it or get fined.  He asked if they could put in language that expressly addresses that.  Councilwoman Knudsen clarified Councilman Voigt’s concerns.  Mayor Hache stated that with the range, what constitutes the amounts. 

Councilman Voigt stated that the dumpster is not being limited in size.  He didn’t know how big they get, but if someone could get a humongous one , could they set it in their front lawn.  Mr. Yotka said that typically what they see are thirty yard containers, but they can go up to forty yards.  Mayor Hache stated that the only thing that could limit it would be how big it would be before its within the ten feet of the property line.  Councilman Voigt stated that he was concerned about the length of time and was wondering if it could be shortened.  Mayor Hache stated that construction projects take quite a bit of time.  Mr. Yotka stated that the size and scope of the project would mandate the amount of time.  He suggested the first renewal for six months and the subsequent monthly renewals, so that it stays under a twelve month period.

Councilman Voigt stated that the violations subsequent to a fine of $250 to $2,000, and asked if it meant they could get eight violations and then not be charged afterwards.  Mr. Yotka stated that it said in the ordinance that each violation would be considered a separate offense, which would be at the discretion of the Judge.

Ms. Mailander asked how often a construction project goes past nine months, because after nine months, what would they do if they still need a refuse container.  Mr. Yotka stated that they would have to reapply, and start the process again.  He didn’t have a definitive timeline for the length of a construction project, and there have been residential projects that last for eighteen to twenty-four months.  Mr. Rogers stated that a contingency could be added that as long as the work is continuous they could reapply every six months.  There are times when the issue arises and you have a job that all of a sudden halts for a period of time.

1. Operations

1. Berm Designs for Schedler Property

Ms. Mailander stated that Mr. Rutishauser indicated that a berm would provide screenings, sound attenuation, and protection to the park area.  There are two types of trees, either Blue Spruce or Leland cypress, which would be planted on top of the berm.  There are a few different proposed designs, which Ms. Mailander reviewed.

Mr. Rutishauser stated that there were a couple of options for berm design.  He added that there was one other option, similar to the ready rock, with some glaciated stones that they have in the Construction yard.  He stated that the two tree species that they were considered need to be looked at in terms of how they would handle the wildlife.  Mayor Hache stated that the Leland Cypress you would see berm with a tree on top, while with the Spruce you may see more green than the actual berm.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that was an option for the Village Council’s consideration. Mayor Hache asked if either type of tree provided better sound protection.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that they are all about the same in terms of sound attenuation as they are conifers and won’t drop their needles.  He added that even the last option, a timber wall, has to be looked at carefully because it may reflect the sound.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that in the first berm, there is spruce that they could swap with cypress.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that none of the examples of the berm are particularly committed to a particular type of tree.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that the berm would then have some growth.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that if it gets too weedy the Parks Department may trim it.  They were also planning to put woodchips down to keep the weeds away.

Councilwoman Walsh stated that there was no fencing in any of the designs, and when her son was young he would have been able to climb this without a problem.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that the only design that provided a semblance of fencing would be the timber wall.  Councilwoman Walsh stated that her concern was the highway.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that kids can scale it but there is a slope downwards, then an open area and a guide rail before you get into traffic lanes.  They could put a chain-link fence up, then it becomes a question of how tall a fence would work best.  To secure the wayward child it may be six feet tall with the mini mesh, so it’s hard to get a grip on to scale over. 

Mayor Hache stated that on the Saddle River Road side, it calls for fencing that is similar to what is seen at Graydon, and he asked if that could be put on the other side as well.  Mr. Rutishauser agreed, however, to Councilwoman Walsh’s consent, at Vet’s field the fence is 42 inches high, designed to keep younger kids in the playground.  Councilwoman Walsh stated that her preference would be the fence because this is the highway and the Village doesn’t have any other parks on the highway, Ho-Ho-Kus has fencing which looks to be about six feet, and other towns definitely have the fencing as well.

Councilman Sedon asked if they would have a berm with trees on top, and then instead of trees inside there would be a fence.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that they would have the berm with a fence on top and then trees in front of the fence, and the fence would be closer to the highway.  Mr. Rogers asked if the Village had that property on the far side of the berm or if that was the State highway right of way.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that this would be on the Village’s property.

Councilwoman Knudsen asked about the soil accumulation for the berm.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that they did quite well.  Mayor Hache asked if they were going to use the soil for grading the property.  Mr. Rutishauser agreed.  Councilwoman Knudsen asked if there was enough soil for berm and grading.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that he didn’t believe so.  Councilwoman Knudsen asked if the most current project was going to test their soil.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that Ken Smith has a few environmental issues and he would not recommend their soil.

Councilwoman Knudsen asked if the black chain-link fence becomes invisible with the environment.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that black vinyl coated mini mesh can fade well into the background and provide the measure of security that is sought.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she thinks Councilwoman Walsh’s idea about the fence is good, and then closest to the highway and then trees.   There was agreement that the Village Council liked the Spruce trees.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that there would be staggered spruce, and black vinyl fencing on the highway side of the tree line.

Councilwoman Knudsen asked what the proposed walkway was.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that it would probably be an exposed aggregate concrete walkway, eight feet wide and seven inches thick which is helpful for plowing after snow and allows a patrol car to circumvent through the park.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that at the High School, the walkway is a rubberized material and asked if that was something they would want to use.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that he believed the cost to be more than concrete, and that it wouldn’t tolerate a plow blade.

Councilman Sedon asked if he could take the tree suggestions to the Shade Tree Commission as there are people that have some expertise as to trees that may last longer.  Councilwoman Knudsen asked if the deer eat the spruce.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that generally they don’t, however if they are very hungry there is very little that they won’t eat. 

Councilman Voigt asked about the row of trees closest to the walkway, and if their roots would cause an issue with raising up the concrete walk.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that it wasn’t likely for at least the first ten to twenty years as there would be a distance between where the trees are planted and the edge of the walkway.  He added that they would leave a bit of green space to give the trees room so they can spread and not impede the walkway.

2. Renewal of The Estate Card Agreement

Ms. Mailander stated that the Village has had the Estate Card since 2017.  She heard that over this past year they experienced that the bank no longer accepted them, and so this will be a Visa and they will relaunch it and have a dedicated person for the New York – New Jersey – Metropolitan area.  They would like the Village to maintain a two year renewal from July 2019 to July 2021.  This is an optional opportunity for residents to possibly save some tax dollars.  She added that they are looking at a credit card as opposed to just a debit card.  They will be coming to speak at Village Hall to explain more about the program and this was up to the Village Council whether they would like to renew it.  Ms. Mailander stated that she would anticipate maybe more stores participating.

Mayor Hache stated that he felt they should speak to them first.  Councilwoman Knudsen asked how many people signed up.  Ms. Mailander stated that there were not many who signed up, however there weren’t many stores participating and there wasn’t a lot of advertising.  Councilwoman Knudsen asked for a specific number, and if they were going to continue they might base that determination on how many folks are really interested.  Ms. Mailander stated that she would find out that information.

3. Sidewalk Closure – Franklin Avenue

Ms. Mailander stated that the sidewalk closure is along Franklin Avenue between Chestnut Street and the train trestle bridge, along the Ken Smith site frontage.  They are requesting that this be closed to protect pedestrians.  She added that Mr. Rutishauser has reviewed it and found it acceptable, and that it will be closed for the next three to four months.

Mr. Rutishauser stated that the crosswalk from the Northwest corner of Franklin and Chestnut will still be open, and the only path that will be closed is along the north side of Franklin Avenue and then across at the Broad Street light.

Councilwoman Knudsen asked if there was any reason that anyone would be walking there.  Mr. Rutishauser stated that it could just be force of habit and where they initiate that crossing movement.

4. Amendment to Outdoor Café Ordinance

Ms. Mailander stated that the outdoor café ordinance is up for Public Hearing next week, however, as they started to discuss it, there are some concerns as to where the moveable barrier is placed.  The proposal has been that if there is parallel parking but no public meter or no public parking there because it is a loading zone, they could have it from the edge of the curb to the inside part of the brick.  Mayor Hache stated that the outside edge of the brick band is six inches of curb.

Ms. Mailander stated that the other suggested change was for the height of planters for the barriers at three feet.  Mayor Hache suggested four feet for the height of the planter.  Ms. Mailander stated that was up to the Village Council.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that as a concern, as much as it’s a visual barrier, its also a barrier for vehicles seeing that there are people on the other side of it.  She was concerned that a vehicle may not see someone.  Ms. Mailander stated that the planters are somewhat elevated as it is.  Councilwoman Knudsen asked the average height of the barriers.  Mayor Hache stated that it was about four feet at Steel Wheel, and the ones that would be impacted would be Finca, Pearl, and Raymond’s.

Councilman Voigt asked about year-round outdoor dining.  Ms. Mailander stated that they had previously said March 1^st through November 30^th.  They wanted the sidewalk to be clear if it snows during that time and it was a nice ability to be able to walk on the sidewalks when there could be other impediments.  Ms. Mailander stated that there are sporadic warm days here and there, but this way they can be put out continuously from March 1^st through November 30^th.  Councilman Voigt stated that he was okay with year round as it is extra business for the restaurants.  Ms. Mailander stated the issue then is not removing the chairs and tables completely at all.  Councilman Sedon stated that he was worried about people taking advantage of that.  Councilwoman Knudsen stated that it prevents staff examining the sidewalk for cracks.

Mayor Hache stated that it has worked out so far.  Ms. Mailander stated that the concern with Code Enforcement is that there is never a time when the tables and barriers aren’t out.  She added that in December a lot of people are out shopping and dining.  Mayor Hache asked what they were trying to accomplish keeping the sidewalks clear for three months.  Ms. Mailander stated that it is to clear snow and ice.  Councilman Voigt asked if they had a problem with the sidewalks not being clear.  Ms. Mailander stated that the Code Enforcement Officer requested it because she felt like it was an issue that there is never a time when it is clear.  Mr. Rogers stated that there had been a couple of slip and falls as well.  Mayor Hache stated that in that case he was in agreement.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that with the height of the planters were they going to go with four feet.  There was some discussion regarding height.  Mayor Hache stated that five feet would be too high, so he agreed with four feet.  Ms. Mailander stated that she would talk to Mr. Rogers to see if it was substantive and if they would have to do an amendment.  There was additional discussion about the height of the plantings.  Mayor Hache stated that three feet for sure as he measured outside Raymond’s.  Ms. Mailander stated that they would go out and measure and would let the Village Council know.

6. REVIEW OF FEBRUARY 13, 2019 PUBLIC MEETING AGENDA

Ms. Mailander stated that this was a review of the February 13, 2019 Public Meeting Agenda.

Proclamations include: Dad’s Night Days – Hawes School and Somerville School; Read Across America Day; and Super Science Saturday.

Police Department Awards.

Resolutions for Ridgewood Water: Title 59 Approval – Pipe, Appurtenances and Service Materials; Award Contract – Pipe, Appurtenances and Service Materials; Award Contract under National Joint Powers Alliance Program – Purchase of Backhoe Loader; Award Contract under National Joint Powers Alliance Program – Grainger; Award Sole Source Provider Contract – Software Support of SCADA System; Award Professional Services Contract – Hydrogeologic Consulting; Authorize Change Order – Distribution Improvements and Lakeview Extension Study; Declare Property Surplus – Backhoes; and Authorize Cancellation of Taxes for 451 Goffle Road.

The following ordinances are scheduled for introduction:  3704 – Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Significant Sewer Discharger Fees.  

Ordinances for Public Hearing include: 3698 – Bond Ordinance – Street Paving and Streetscape, Purchase of Senior Bus; 3699 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Parking at Train Station Lot after 6:00 p.m.; 3700 – Amend Chapter 156 – Food and Food Handling Establishments – Outdoor Café Regulations; 3701 – Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Outdoor Cafes; 3702 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Ridgewood Premium Parking Permit for Hudson Street Parking Lot and Use of Rideshare Program; and 3703 – Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Ridgewood Parking Permit for Hudson Street Lot.

Resolutions include: Approve 2018 Budget Reserve Transfers; Award Professional Services Contract – 2019 Land Surveying Services Retainer for Preparation of Tax Assessment Map; Authorize Change Order – Infrared Asphalt Restoration; Increase 2018 Deferred School Taxes; Declare Property Surplus – Police Department Vehicles and Miscellaneous Equipment; Endorse Stop, Look, and Wave Campaign for Pedestrian Safety; Oppose Meadowlands Power Plant; and Authorize Settlement – PSE&G.

7. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

Justin Manger, 590 Cliff Street, stated that he was happy to see the Council’s positive response to the single use plastic bag ban idea as he supports it.  He felt some people may be upset about it, but given no option people may change their behavior.   He added that regarding the Schedler property, he asked if they looked at a possible permeable substance so that you can still get a shovel or plow across it when it snows, however this way the water can seep down to the water table.  He added that he applied for the Estate Card a couple of years ago, however he never used it, but if more businesses are getting involved and the $400 is gone it might be a decent idea.

Rurik Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, stated that he supported REAC’s efforts to reduce the use of single use plastic bags.  He added they should go further to reduce the use of plastic water bottles.  He stated that it is critically important to tell people what they should do and why, which is the role of education.  He added that they have to be careful about banning the use of plastic bags period, and gave the example of grapes and a roasted chicken which may need a plastic bag.  Mr. Halaby added that if they could work with the supermarkets in a positive way, putting up signs telling people why they should not use plastic bags or give them some incentive.  He stated that if they had a user-friendly website that people look at and use, that would be a great way to educate the public as to issues they would be facing.  He added that he got a mailing by the Recycling Department about what can be recycled, and there was a lot to learn from it.

Mr. Halaby encouraged Mayor Hache to have a mailing in the next few weeks that talks about the cost of plastic as there are many people in the Village that are very knowledgeable about this subject.  He added that the important thing is to not tell people what not to do but to help them do the right thing by educating them.

Mr. Halaby stated that when Mr. Rutishauser was talking he had things that they did not see about various designs, and listening to Councilwoman Walsh, kids are very creative in terms of climbing but also kicking the ball.  He encouraged them not to be cheap and to have a wall and a net to catch things.  He added that the berm and the wall would be a great sound barrier even though they may block the light.

Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that he supported the proposed ordinance on the banning of single use plastic bags.  He added that the ordinance being enacted in Hoboken is very do-able and has reduced the amount of trash on the streets.  He stated that they frequent a deli there and they charge eleven cents for a paper bag.  He added that it would protect the environment in Ridgewood and protect the community.

Mr. Loving stated that even if you do a bank transfer for tax payments there is a $1.05 charge.  He added that he made a comment regarding the water bill as well, charging for a bank transfer.  He pointed out that a bank transfer is actually more convenient for the Village and he did not understand why there was a charge.  He added that the charge was done away with in the Water Department after he made a comment about it, and he thinks that it should be investigated and also done away with here.

Mr. Loving stated that a comment that was made by someone that an item should be added to the Closed Session.  He felt that shouldn’t be allowed and that an item can’t be added.  The topic doesn’t qualify for Closed Session discussion, and if they spoke about things in Closed Session that should be done in open public session it wouldn’t be right.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that the suggestion of something on the Closed Session earlier, she has been working on the website with the Village Manager and Mr. Hansen for quite some time, and if the Village Manager had something to say to her she would have done so.  She wanted to address the insults that were hurled at the Mayor for his hard work on the newsletter.  We would all agree that whether we appreciate the writing style or not, this is something he’s doing for the community that otherwise doesn’t exist.  We should say thank you for doing this and doing something to better communications in the Village.

8. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION

Deputy Village Clerk, Donna Jackson read Resolution #19-40 to go into Closed Session as follows:

9. ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilwoman Knudsen, seconded by Councilman Sedon, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Work Session was adjourned at 9:15 P.M.

______________________________

                                                                                                      Ramon M. Hache, Sr.                              

                                                                                                                 Mayor                                 

______________________________

              Donna M. Jackson

           Deputy Village Clerk

A REGULAR WORK SESSION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOD, NEW JERSEY ON JANUARY 30, 2019 AT 7:30 P.M.

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

Mayor Hache called the meeting to order at 7:30 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, and Mayor Hache.  Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; and Donna Jackson, Deputy Village Clerk.  Councilwoman Walsh was absent.  Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney arrived at 7:34 P.M.

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 and all our first responders.

2. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

Rurik Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, stated that the Village website has been spoken about for four years, and he realizes it has had a facelift but it needs to be redone from scratch. He looked at the Franklin Lakes website, which is far better than ours. He emailed Greg Hart, the Manager of Franklin Lakes, and apparently it took $5,000 for them to set it up and $1,000 per year for maintenance. He added that the developer is a company called GovOffice, that specializes in setting up websites for municipal governments. Mr. Halaby added that Ridgewood has many talented people that could be asked to serve on an advisory committee that would work with the talented people at Village Hall and GovOffice to come up with a website we would all be proud of. He added that he emailed the Franklin Lakes Manager, who responded in twenty-three minutes.

Mr. Halaby stated that he saw on the agenda there would be discussion about a stop sign at Gilbert and Hope, adding that we need one there. He added that they also need a four way stop sign at the intersection of Ridgewood Avenue and Broad Street, as people heading west on Ridgewood Avenue go right through the intersection, and it is an accident waiting to happen. He added that he had a big debate with the Village Engineer who says that people don’t obey four way stop signs; but he thinks that’s crazy as they are all over the country.

Joseph Alvaro, Gilbert Street, stated that he attended the meeting regarding his concern about traffic on Gilbert Street across Hope, because there is no way for cars to slow down. He stated that if they could get the stop sign placed there, he would appreciate it.

Shayan Farooqi, Gilbert Street, stated that he was a lifelong Ridgewood resident, and is a disability attorney and has seen what speed does. He stated that a stop sign at the intersection of Hope and Gilbert would be very effective.

A Gilbert Street resident, stated that the stop sign that is now on the Hope Street side has made a huge difference, and he thanked the Council for putting in that stop sign. He added that heading west towards Maple Avenue is a downward slope and people speed.

A Gilbert Street resident, stated that she was involved in an accident when she was crossing the street. She added that there are signs at Spring and Maple and the people by-pass that sign using Hope Street to Gilbert, so they speed down the street but there are kids playing.

Frank Mortimer, 426 Van Buren, stated that he was here for the beekeeping regulations, as during the 2014 to 2015 Legislative Session, legislation was passed to encourage and enable beekeeping throughout the state, and then the Department of Agriculture was charged with developing regulations that would support the law and then things got derailed. He added, that last year he spoke to the Council to ask that Ridgewood oppose the regulations. Then over 40 towns followed Ridgewood in opposing the regulations. The Department of Agriculture has overhauled the regulations which are a lot better, but there are a few points that would prevent beekeeping throughout most of the state.

Mr. Mortimer stated that there was a sentence in the document that said it would be unlawful for any beekeepers keep any hives in such a manner as it poses a direct threat to public health and safety. There are no definitions, explanations, or limits, which needs to be removed because there are no specifics as to what you can and cannot do. He added that a Council could easily decide that it poses a public threat and there would be no more bees in Ridgewood. Right now, there are more beekeepers in Ridgewood than any other municipality in Bergen County.

Mr. Mortimer added that there is another line in the document that is a direct impact on Ridgewood. It states that on a quarter of an acre of woods, you can keep bees, but it didn’t have the words “or less,” so that needs to be rewritten as well. He added that he hoped the Village Council would support this and set the standard for the rest of New Jersey.

Jane Remis, 118 Madison Place, stated that as drivers, we have all seen pedestrians do dangerous things such as students crossing the street without even looking up from their phones or nearly invisible people are crossing in front of you in the dark, and people rushing across the street midblock. That’s not mentioning the drivers who rush through intersections and make turns without awareness for pedestrians. An average of 24 pedestrians are struck in Ridgewood every year, and she added that everyone needs reminders to use their knowledge and common sense.

Ms. Remis stated that in 2012, the Home School Association got together and distributed Stop, Look and Wave pamphlets to all children in Ridgewood as part of the Pedestrian Safety Campaign. That was seven years ago, and it was time to introduce Stop, Look, and Wave to a new generation of students. She stated that left turning cars account for 75% of pedestrian accidents. Ms. Remis stated that she was working with a committee called the Safe Streets Action Task Force, which came out of Citizen Safety. So, they are trying to target every driver and pedestrian in town through information in local organization emails, web pages, and signage, and hopefully will have Stop, Look and Wave magnets printed through funding from the HSA this spring. She added that so far, they have endorsements from Citizen Safety, the Ridgewood Police Department, Board of Education, and they would love to get the support of the Village Council, as well, to let everyone know that Ridgewood is a pedestrian friendly town.

Claude Bienstock, 39-11B Broadway, Fair Lawn, stated that for the last twenty years he has been a trustee of Alliance Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse of Fair Lawn. The opioid crisis is a serious crisis, and he doesn’t have all the answers, but he urged the Village Council to continue the work they are doing and supporting all of the efforts that are being made to prevent our young people from using drugs and underage drinking and cigarette smoking. There have been too many people who have died through opiod addiction, which is a serious problem that isn’t going away. He added that every city has to face this problem, and he urged the Village Council to get the word out and continue to urge students not to experiment with drugs as it is a dangerous path. Mr. Bienstock added that he supports what law enforcement is doing, and it is a difficult problem. He stated that he is opposed to the legalization of marijuana, as it sends a wrong message to people that it is okay to smoke marijuana. He also encouraged the Village to be a Stigma Free Community.

Joanne Ricci, from Raymond’s, 101 East Ridgewood Avenue, stated that she saw on the agenda that there would be discussion about regulating deliveries in the business district. She added that she has heard what is being proposed, and the reality is that a lot of it is not in the businesses’ control. If they are going to be expected to have deliveries before they are open, and in their case they open at 8:00 A.M., it is not possible for deliveries to come before opening. She added that they have a driver who picks up deliveries for them from a location that doesn’t open until 7:00 A. M. Ms. Ricci added that a lot of deliveries are coming to them from New York. She appreciates how this is a consideration, and she has driven through town when trucks are a problem, adding that she would love to find a solution for it, but she didn’t think there was a way that it could be fair to business owners.

Gary Kolesaire, from The Tobacco Shop, stated that they have been in town for 40 years, and added that parking issues due to food deliveries is a problem. He added that outside his store, trucks can park there for three to four hours, and behind the truck is the fifteen minute parking spot, which is blocked when they unload. Sometimes a second truck will also pull up to make deliveries, creating more traffic and obstacles for drivers. Mr. Kolesaire stated that the other day there was a truck parked in the loading zone, using the fifteen minute parking spot. Another food delivery truck rode up Ridgewood Avenue, past Chestnut Street, stopped, backed up, and drove backwards to park in front of the truck in the delivery zone to deliver his food. He added that Chestnut Street, Oak and Walnut all have these problems. He spoke with Phil from Kilwins, who told him they had an issue where a big truck parked and delivered his goods. After they received a complaint from a retailer, they parked at the end of Walnut Street, in front of the Getty Station, and the trucker walked it up the street, which was his solution to the issue.

Mr. Kolesaire stated that while he thought delivery at night would be a great solution; however, Tim from Stella gets vegetables or food in, and apparently some of that comes in damaged and gets returned right away. He added that they all have to do business, but his feeling is that if they can put a meeting together with the CBD Board to get the restaurants in to find a way to resolve this problem and work together on this.

Michael Elias, Ice Cream by Mike, 305 East Ridgewood Avenue, reiterated the comments regarding controlling the purveyors and when they deliver. He added that having deliveries before his store opened would be difficult to accommodate, as his purveyors come from the Bronx and asking for an earlier schedule would be difficult. He stated that there may be a solution such as designated parking areas. He added that any penalties to the vendors would also be a burden, as they would be paying for the purveyor which they really can’t control.

Andrew Lowry, 441 Hawthorne Place, stated that he was there on behalf of the Shade Tree Commission and he forwarded the Village Council a letter from the Mayor of Princeton regarding bill S2505 that has passed the Assembly, and is now before the Senate. It has to do with utilities management of vegetation, including trees, bushes, and anything that is in the way of the utility. He stated that he also received a letter from Shade Tree Commissioners who are opposed to this law. The law, if passed as written, gives utility companies the right to do whatever they want with a tree, branch or vegetation. Mr. Lowry stated that this was a very bad idea, as they don’t always do it with the care that most people would like to see. This law would give them authority to declare dangerous vegetation and it can’t be challenged. He added that it doesn’t require them to have an expert arborist making determinations. There is no opportunity for the private property owner to get their point of view heard. Mr. Lowry stated that they have contacted Senator Corrado, but he wanted to make sure that the Village Council was aware of it.

There were no additional comments from the public.

Mayor Hache stated that regarding the truck’s deliveries, the ordinance would only speak to on-street deliveries because they are creating certain hazards to taking up valuable parking spaces. He added that it was just a discussion tonight, and they would continue to receive feedback. He notified the Guild and the Chamber that the Village Council would be discussing this tonight and he wanted to make sure that if something is done, it’s done the right way.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that Ridgewood is a Stigma Free Community, adding that they were one of the early communities in the County to adopt that resolution. She added that Dawn Cetrulo heads that initiative. She stated that regarding the website, a number of months ago and over the years, they have organized a group of folks that got together and looked at numerous municipalities’ websites and how they could optimize across multiple platforms so everyone had the best visual experience. She added that they are very proud of that, and added that the website is very visual and user-friendly. They have met weekly to work through some of the issues and update everything.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that the sunshine transparency binders the Village Council has worked to put together, include documents that are provided to the Village Councilmembers. These are in the binders so people can follow along and understand what they are talking about and what kind of actions they are taking. These were put together as an initiative to be transparent so people understand the meetings. It came to their attention recently that an observer may have removed some documents from the transparency binder. She stated that this is a courtesy and she hopes people will continue to use the transparency binders, but if there are people taking things out or removing them from the table where other residents can’t access, they will have to discontinue the program.

Mayor Hache stated that a gentlemen was having a difficult time contacting a Committee-member, and it came to the attention of the Village Council that there wasn’t contact information for the committees, which is now on the website. The liaison for each of the committees is now on the website, also.

3. MANAGERS REPORT

2019 First Quarter Property Taxes – Ms. Mailander stated that she wanted to remind everyone that the 2019 first quarter property taxes are due February 1^st. There is a ten day grace period, and they are due in the Tax Collectors office no later than Monday, February 11^th. A postmark is not acceptable, and it has to be received by that date. It can be mailed to the Tax Collector in Village Hall, or dropped in the yellow mailbox located at the main entrance by the lobby door. She added that you may also pay taxes online at www.ridgewoodnj.net. Ms. Mailander stated that office hours are 8:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M.

Meet the Mayor – Ms. Mailander stated that Mayor Hache would meet with residents on an appointment-only basis on Saturday, February 9^th, from 9:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. She encouraged interested individuals to contact the Village Clerk’s Office to make an appointment. If there are no scheduled appointments, the session will be rescheduled to the next month.

Jamboree – Ms. Mailander stated that Jamboree is an annual fundraiser supporting scholarships for graduates of Ridgewood High School. The program is an original show that includes parents singing and dancing. February 6^th is the dress rehearsal which is free to the public, and the 7^th, 8^th and 9^th at Ben Franklin Middle School. She added that the Senior Bus would be taking a group to the dress rehearsal on Wednesday evening, February 6^th and residents could call the Village Manger’s office if they would like a ride.

GovDeals – Ms. Mailander stated that the Village continues to use GovDeals to auction trucks and equipment that it no longer needs. Last week they sold one truck and a piece of asphalt equipment for a total of $15,000.

Ridgewood Events – Ms. Mailander stated that tomorrow night is the last night of Restaurant Week, sponsored by the Valley Hospital and the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce. It is a prix fixe menu at various restaurants for $30.19.

4. COUNCIL REPORTS

Ridgewood Environmental Advisory Committee / The Green Team – Councilman Sedon stated that REAC and The Green Team would meet February 19^th at 7:00 P.M. to discuss various sustainable elements to Master Planning with NV5 as part of the Visioning Process to the new Master Plan that will be written in the future.

Shade Tree Commission – Councilman Sedon stated on February 20^th there will be a Shade Tree Commission meeting at 7:30 P.M.

Ridgewood Arts Council – Councilwoman Knudsen stated that the Ridgewood Arts Council set March 12^th from 6:30 P.M. to 7:30 P.M. at the Ridgewood Upper Tennis Club for their next artist talk featuring Dana Glaser who is the Producer, Writer, and Director for ‘A Case of the Blue,’ which is mostly filmed in Ridgewood. She added that he is a member of the Ridgewood Arts Council, so they were excited that he agreed to do the artist talk.

Community Access Network – Councilwoman Knudsen stated that they met last week and discussed a number of issues and concerns facing the special needs community, especially and including housing. She added that they took an interest in the Settlement Agreement and how that is proceeding, so hopefully that will be wrapped up and there will be some comfort level with the Access Committee.

Jamboree – Councilwoman Knudsen stated that Jamboree is one of the best programs in Ridgewood, as she has been volunteering for almost a decade and every year they raise money that goes to students of Ridgewood High School who would otherwise not be able to attend college or afford the college of their choice. It fundraises through the sale of journal ads, and the students and parents are grateful for the opportunities that otherwise would not be afforded to them.

Mayor Hache added that Jamboree has donated over a million dollars in scholarships since it was formed. Councilwoman Knudsen stated that these are need-based scholarships, and students apply for them.

Community Center Advisory Board – Councilman Voigt stated that they met on January 24^th at The Stable, and some of the participants in Age Friendly stated that there are several presentations on aging in place coming up. One is on April 30^th by Ashton Applewhite, who wrote a book on ‘This Age Rocks’ at 7:30 P.M. at the library. He stated that Age Friendly had asked the Village to look into putting some sidewalks at Ridgecrest near the train station.

Councilman Voigt stated that Tom Lewis, the RHS representative to the Community Center Advisory Board spoke on behalf of the Civic Youth Corps, and in March there is going to be a Civics Quiz Bowl that the Village Council is invited to. There will also be a Cook-Off for Cancer at the Healthbarn, and there is an RHS Film Festival that is upcoming as well.

Councilman Voigt added that the Community Center Advisory Board did ask for some updates on the Departments and Committees that are on the website. Parks and Recreation, Athletic Facilities, Shade Tree and Conversation Boards needed to be update. He added that they also talked about the phone system at The Stable, and getting that connected to Village Hall, as well as an inability to leave messages.

Ridgewood Arts Foundation – Councilman Voigt stated that he had the opportunity to attend the Ridgewood Arts Foundation annual event this Sunday, at Park West. The Foundation does a tremendous amount of promoting and providing resources throughout Ridgewood. This year’s honorees included Kristen Plumley for her work in promoting music in Ridgewood schools, Gene Thomas, and Reverend Mac Brandon and the Connection.

North Jersey Masters Award Ceremony – Mayor Hache stated that it was a great event and he was amazed at the distance some of these runners are covering.

Master Plan – Mayor Hache stated that on February 13^th there will be two round table discussions with NV5, one of the commercial property owners in town, and the other from realtors, as part of continued effort to build this collective vision of what we want Ridgewood to be in the future.

Mayor Hache stated that this is the 125^th anniversary of the Village of Ridgewood on November 20^th, and he suggested they come up with a way to celebrate this momentous occasion.

Ms. Mailander stated that the Village tried for grants twice, for sidewalks at Ridgecrest, and currently they have submitted for Safe Routes to Transit, and she doesn’t believe they have heard back about that grant, yet. She added that at Parks and Recreation, you can leave messages, and regarding a connection between The Stable and Village Hall, she would look into it further.

5. PRESENTATION

1. PSE&G – Tree Trimming Project

Guy Voigt, stated that he was a state licensed certified tree expert with PSE&G, and he has a staff of twenty individuals with five or six of them being state licensed as tree experts. He added that they supervise the line clerks throughout the state. He supervises Hudson and Bergen County, called the Palisades Division, of 65 municipalities. Mr. Voigt stated that he has been with the company for 33 years, and 27 of them as a certified tree expert. He added that he was there to talk about routine maintenance, which he does with every municipality. They have two substations that feed Ridgewood, one by the old inspection station, and the other at the Hopper Switch off of Hopper Avenue in Waldwick. They will be working on both of those stations this year, starting the work at the Ridgewood substation.

Mr. Voigt stated that prior to them coming into town, they meet with the Police Department to put them on board with traffic control. He added that they work a lot with the Shade Tree and Parks Department on hazardous trees they need some help removing, and they go out and preplan the whole job, speak to the customers, and give residents information with the private trees. He added that with the town trees, they don’t have to notify residents because they have already spoken to the Shade Tree and Parks Department.

Mr. Voigt stated that regarding the legislation, he read about it and he believes it is only on removal of trees and has nothing to do with pruning and he believes they want the right to go on private property and to take trees down. He added that they don’t take trees down unless they are assisting a municipality or a customer’s private contractor when they have a tree that they want to remove. If he identifies a hazardous tree, he will notify the resident or the municipality, but PSE&G doesn’t blanketly take trees down. He reiterated that this is routine maintenance which is done every four years, where they start in Woodcliff Lake and work to Bayonne in that period.

Mayor Hache asked if the door hanger would be left if PSE&G spotted a problem as a courtesy. Mr. Voigt stated that if they trimmed a tree as part of normal routine maintenance, they would leave a door hanger.

Councilman Sedon asked how long Lewis had been the contractor used by PSE&G. Mr. Voigt stated that it had been about five years. Councilman Sedon stated that they came through last time, four years ago. He asked if they would be doing the streets again. Mr. Voigt stated that the substations cover most of Ridgewood, and that there is one area near Paramus that comes out of New Milford which would be done next year. Councilman Sedon asked if Mr. Voigt knew on average how many hazardous trees they might take down. Mr. Voigt stated that PSE&G is responsible for the ten to fifteen feet away from the conductors to make it safe, unless they are asked to by the Shade Tree and Parks Department, or if a customer needs assistance with a tree that they are taking down. Mr. Voigt added that he would like to attend the Shade Tree Commission meeting if Councilman Sedon could provide him with the date.

Councilwoman Knudsen asked where the door hangers would be used. Mr. Voigt stated that their pre-planner from Lewis Tree follows his map and goes to private customers to leave the tag on the door which is his card. So, if someone calls him, he will go out and take a look.

Ms. Mailander asked when Mr. Voigt anticipated starting in Ridgewood. Mr. Voigt stated that they are working their way back from Glen Rock, and he anticipated, hopefully, starting next week. He added that there might be pieces in other municipalities, but he would do all that at one time and then move back into this area.

Andrew Lowry, 441 Hawthorne, stated that they have had presentations before from PSE&G, but his point was directed at the legislation which applies to more than PSE&G, but all utilities. It gives them more authority than they have now in that they wouldn’t have to consult with the Village arborist or the Parks and Shade Tree Department if they wanted to do some of the work. He added that the bill was passed in the Assembly, so it must have been supported by some group. He stated that his one request is that when the crews go out and cut branches that are effecting wires, that they also cut branches that are effecting the trees. He added that there are trees with dead branches that are below the wires that are left there, which then lead to dead trees over the years unless they are dealt with. Mr. Lowry added that they have been working hard to plant and replace trees that have been taken down, so all help they could give as they are up in the tree already would be appreciated. He added that he would appreciate the opportunity to talk to Mr. Voigt in a meeting as well.

Mr. Voigt stated that the tree trimming isn’t just for PSE&G, but also for the safety and reliability of the customers. What they are trimming is really involved with the wire, but he doesn’t know if they are really responsible for what is required beyond the scope of the work. He added that tree trimming is a costly operation to everyone, so they need to focus mostly on what is in the conductors. If there are dead limbs that would come down from above the wire and cause an outage they would take care of that.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that it was a great point, and she appreciated that they were witnessing the dead branch but were choosing to ignore it for the purposes of cost issues, and so that has to be left below the wires to rest. She asked if there was some kind of a form or document that could be generated that identifies the tree and location and where they are witnessing an issue. Then, at least the Village could address it, or perhaps there could be some kind of shared service that could be arranged to address that.

Mr. Voigt stated that they work along with the Parks Department and if they do see something that is going to be a problem outside of the scope of what they need to do, they are reporting that to the Parks Department. He added that with 65 municipalities, that is a lot of tree work, and they are trying to keep it affordable to the customer also.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she heard what Mr. Voigt was saying but wondered if there was a safer, more expedient way to address that. Mr. Voigt stated that they have been in positions where they do something like that and then people ask why they did that to the tree, so they walk a fine line. If a resident calls, or if the Parks Department calls, they will take a look at it and do the best they can to work with the resident.

Councilwoman Knudsen asked procedurally, how PSE&G would report a dead limb to the Parks Department that they observe. Mr. Voigt stated that they work through Declan, and would call him. He added that they speak frequently.

Mayor Hache stated that it is a lot of municipalities and he assumes that they have been able to negotiate a very competitive rate in terms of what PSE&G is charged for removing the trees. He asked if there was any chance of passing that on to the homeowners in case they have a line that is compromised and the homeowner asks to remove it at their rate. Mr. Voigt stated that the problem with that is that the contractor is only geared for trimming, and they don’t have log trucks and stump machines. He added that they can’t charge a customer for removal, but are there for safety reasons bound by state regulations, the High Voltage Proximity Act, to keep that corridor clear so no one gets hurt. He added that they never venture into wholesale to remove the tree. Mayor Hache stated that since they were already in contact with the contractor could they pass on the rate. Mr. Voigt stated that the contractor doesn’t do private work, as they are a utility line clearance contractor. He added that they do work with other large vendors, but they don’t do full-scale removals on their own.

Mr. Voigt stated that regarding taking down a private tree, the insurance involved would be costly, which is why he doesn’t think they would be interested in going onto someone’s property to take a tree down as the legislation before the senate is suggesting.

1. DISCUSSION

1. Ridgewood Water

1. Award Contract – Pipe, Appurtenances and Service Materials

Ms. Mailander stated that on February 14^th of last year, the Village awarded a two year contract for the provision of Pipes, Appurtenances and Service Materials. The bid is awarded by low bid per category and the lowest unit price for fire hydrants; this resulted in five different vendors being awarded the contract. This is budgeted for in the Water Utility operating budget, in a total amount not to exceed $225,000.

2. Award Change Order – Distribution Improvements and Lakeview Extension Study

Ms. Mailander stated that this project was for evaluation of water mains replacements or cleaning and lining in two locations, one at Beechwood Road in Ridgewood, and one on Linwood and Myrtle Avenues in Midland Park. The existing old water mains were causing dirty water in the distribution system. Suburban Engineers is the consulting design engineer of record who is performing the construction administration and part time inspection of the installation of the new water mains. This is a request for Change Order No. 3 in the amount of $7,486. Change Orders Numbers 1 and 2 have already been approved. This is required for engineering charges for construction administration and inspection and has resulted from contractor delays. Ms. Mailander added that the two fees for increasing under Change Order No. 2 and Change Order No. 3 which totals $12,286 will be deducted from the payment to the contractor because they caused the delays.

3. Declare Property Surplus – Two John Deere Backhoes

Ms. Mailander stated that these two John Deere backhoes have surpassed their useful life and are being used as a trade-in for a 2018 loader backhoe.

4. Award NJPA Co-Op Contract – Purchase of Backhoe Loader

Ms. Mailander stated that this is for the purchase of a Caterpillar Model Backhoe Loader under the National Joint Powers Alliance Program. The repairs on the 2005 John Deere backhoe exceed the vehicle’s present value. Necessary repairs on the 2005 John Deere are estimated to be $59,504,79 which could increase during disassembly and inspection. The second backhoe loader is a 1998 John Deere valued at $12,500 and the 2005 is valued at $20,000. There was a trial period of three months at $12,600 which will be applied as a credit towards the purchase of the new John Deere, so the overall purchase price is $95,552. The purchase is from Foley Incorporated of Piscataway. Funds are in the Water Capital Budget.

5. Award Contract – SCADA Software Support

Ms. Mailander stated that Emerson Process Management Power & Water Solutions is the supplier of the software for the SCADA system which allows utility operators to communicate, control, and record the equipment and resulting data points within the water system. The contract is for a three year period, subject to annual renewals. This is a total contract price of $56,768.91, billed in increments of $18,922.97 per year and allocated in the Water Operating Budget.

6. Authorize Cancellation of Property Taxes – 451 Goffle Road

Ms. Mailander stated that the Village purchased 451 Goffle Road in December 2018, so this resolution was to remove the property from the tax rolls. The 2018 taxes were $5,691.74, with a portion of that being cancelled and then the property will be listed as exempt for the 2020 tax year and forward.

7. Award Professional Services Contract – Hydrogeologic Consulting Services

Ms. Mailander stated that this is a proposal from WSP USA to provide professional services to Ridgewood Water in connection with the Capital Improvement Program Well Maintenance and Testing Programs. WSP’s services are necessary to support the task order consultants that are providing services for Ridgewood Water’s wells and treatment systems. WSP, the selected task order consultant, and Ridgewood Water will work as a team to plan, design and oversee rehabilitation and new well construction projects. This includes such tasks as replacement well drilling, well repairs, treatment plans, production plans and general services to assist with regulatory compliance and emerging contaminants. Mr. Calbi is recommending the award to WSP, U.S.A. of Upper Saddle River in the amount not to exceed $167,500 per year. The funds are available in the Water Utility Operating Budget.

1. Budget

1. Award Professional Services – 2019 Tax Assessment Map

Ms. Mailander stated that Daniel Dunn of Dunn Surveying and Mapping is hired annually to provide Professional Land Surveying services on retainer. He has provided this service successfully for the Village for the past twenty years. This amount is $1,700 and the retainer provides the Village with a New Jersey Professional Land Surveyor to endorse our tax maps and provides the license coverage for the survey work the staff of the Engineering Division prepares for various construction projects and regulatory submittals. The retainer is a fixed fee and does not have hours billed against it. Pay to Play requirements do not pertain to this as it is below the threshold.

Mayor Hache asked how the Village ends up with the same surveyor for the past twenty years. Ms. Mailander stated that it is a professional service so they have gone to him and have been happy with his pricing and work.

Mr. Rogers stated that over the twenty years he has a familiarity with the Village in getting things done and a good working relationship with the Engineering Department.

2. Deferred School Tax Resolution

Ms. Mailander stated that this is an annual resolution, consistent with the annual process which began in the 1980s. The resolution will allow for the maximum deferral which is the most favorable position to take since it increases the Village fund balance account and will help offset any restrictions from reserve accounts which may arise from 2018 financial operations.

3. 2018 Appropriation Reserve Transfers

Ms. Mailander stated that this transfers money from the 2018 budget from Departments which have extra funds to Departments which need additional funding for expenses which were incurred in 2018.

4. Declare Property Surplus – Police Department Vehicle and Miscellaneous Equipment

Ms. Mailander stated that the Police Department has several items including a 2007 Ford Crown Victoria, where the necessary repairs exceed the value of the vehicle. A document shredder was malfunctioning and has been replaced by a hand-me-down shredder from the Finance Department. They have a lot of Pelco monitors, DVRs, and Vicon cameras which were replaced by the new security system and have imbedded memory and will be destroyed, PR-24 batons that are no longer used or issued by the Police Department, and an old metal first aid cabinet which was replaced. There are 53 individual LED lights and light bars that were removed from old vehicles and are no longer used on the new police vehicles. There are some computer docks for computers no longer used in vehicles by the Police Department. There are siren controllers and speakers that were previously used for parts, a uniden scanner that was removed from a police vehicle and is no longer used, as well as a digital camera that uses floppy discs and is obsolete and unusable.

5. Establish 2019 Sewer Fees for Significant Dischargers

Ms. Mailander stated that the Village has an ordinance that establishes a fee structure based upon equivalent dwelling units for commercial/industrial minor and significant dischargers to the Village’s sanitary sewage collection system. Non-profits and tax-exempt properties are billed for the sewage treatment services they receive. The rate was set at $4.27 per 1,000 gallons of flow in excess of 109,500 gallons per year discharged from commercial/non-profit properties as measured by water meter consumption during the two winter quarters for 2018. After examining our operating costs, the Village Engineer has recommended that the current rate be maintained at $4.27 per 1,000 gallons for 2019.

1. Policy

1. Beekeeping Regulations

Ms. Mailander stated that any objections or comments are due by February 1^st so if the Village Council is inclined to think they could send a letter from the Mayor on behalf of the Village and the Village Council. Mayor Hache stated that the burden of proof issue as it relates to a public safety threat is something that is worth pushing back on, and the language was very confusing and ambiguous about the quarter acre. He added that it needed to be tweaked and he was happy to write a letter. Mr. Mortimer stated that when they released the new regulations they had to address all the comments from last year, and in there it talks about legislators and based on prior feedback that was a motivator for them and the letter from Mayor Hache would do a lot.

Councilwoman Knudsen asked Mr. Mortimer how many beekeepers they had in town now. Mr. Mortimer stated that at last count there were fifteen.

Mayor Hache stated that he learned from Mr. Mortimer that the bees huddle into a ball and rotate, and have an internal temperature in the nineties.

2. Revive Stop, Look and Wave Campaign

Ms. Mailander stated that at this point, the Village Council could do a resolution supporting the Stop, Look and Wave campaign if that was something they were interested in. The Village Council was in agreement. Mayor Hache stated that it was seven years ago and it was definitely time to bring the campaign back as we can’t talk enough about safety.

3. Resolution Opposing Meadowlands Power Plant

Ms. Mailander stated that she received an email from the Meadowlands Coalition about a subsidiary of Mitsubishi who is proposing to build a $1.5 billion natural gas-fired power plant in North Bergen, about thirteen miles from Ridgewood. According to the email, all of the power would be used in New York, and New Jersey would receive the pollution. NJDEP has already issued wetlands and flood hazard permits for this project and is now reviewing the applicant’s Air Quality permit. This plant would be one of the largest sources of air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions in New Jersey, will emit tons of pollutants annually, and exposure to these pollutants is linked to various diseases. The American Lung Association stated that the air in 2018 shows that Bergen and Hudson Counties already have ratings of F for ozone pollution and have significant populations for pediatric and adult asthmas, as well as other diseases, which would only be exacerbated by this plant. The DEP does not control ozone in the form of air pollution, and they are allowed to buy ozone credits from defunct power plants and are already in the process of purchasing credits from plants in New York.

The Coalition understands they expect the permits will be approved, and are asking the Village to pass a resolution in opposition of this as the Governor and DEP have several tools they can use to regulate emissions. Ms. Mailander stated that over 34 municipalities in Bergen County have adopted the opposing resolution and there are more every day. Air pollution is an invisible silent killer, and in order to protect each other, they are requesting that all of the surrounding municipalities pass this resolution.

Councilman Voigt asked why they were building the plant. Ms. Mailander stated that it was to provide electricity for New York City.

Councilman Sedon read a statement from the Ridgewood Environmental Advisory Committee and the Green Team stating there was an event tonight so the members could not attend this meeting in person. Bob Upton, and Justin Manger, asked him to make a statement regarding the proposed resolution opposing the construction of the North Bergen Liberty Power Plant as submitted to the Village Council for adoption. He read that the only benefits would be the supply of electricity to customers in New York and some financial benefits to the local and New Jersey communities. Thirty-seven towns, so far, have passed resolutions similar to the one that REAC is proposing saying no to this power plant. They respectfully request that the Village Council pass their resolution.

Councilman Voigt asked if they were replacing anything or just building a new plant. Mr. Rogers stated they were building a new plant. Councilman Sedon added they shut down one of the reactors at the Indian Point Nuclear Power Plant.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that another municipality sent this to the Village a couple of months ago, and after reading the whole document, she felt they should vigorously oppose this power plant. She added it was a fragile area.

Ms. Mailander stated they would have a resolution at the next public meeting.

1. Operations

1. Regulating Deliveries in the Commercial Business District

Ms. Mailander stated that she met with Sergeant Chuck and Chief Lutchke and they indicated that they would prefer there are no deliveries allowed, during the time frame of 10:00 A.M. to 10:00 P.M. She added that they would also like a weight limit of 18,000 pounds for the trucks that are parked on the street. Councilwoman Knudsen asked what size truck that would be, and Ms. Mailander stated that it would be bigger than a small box truck. Ramsey limits it from 8:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M., and she added that the smaller trucks are able to park in a space and pay the meter, so they are not blocking spaces and the Village isn’t losing revenue.

Mayor Hache stated that Ramsey passed this and 8:00 A.M. seems a bit drastic, while 10:00 A.M. to 10:00 P.M. is what the Police Department is suggesting. He added that he wanted to talk to the businesses to get a better sense of what would be realistic in terms of scheduling and maybe think about what streets can be off limits, even if it takes walking with a hand truck an extra block. He added that they would talk to the businesses to see what the best way to go about it would be.

Councilman Sedon stated that maybe you wouldn’t want trucks parked on East Ridgewood Avenue, but then there is trouble on the side streets too. So, maybe there would be a designated spot that is the safest, because a blanket ban on deliveries from 10:00 A.M. to 10:00 P.M. could be exceedingly onerous.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that when the Board of Adjustments was discussing times for deliveries to businesses, they learned that the convenience store had multiple deliveries throughout the day and she has to presume that these restaurants also have multiple deliveries. She added it was important for the Village Council to better understand the number of deliveries businesses have and how they may be tying the hands of businesses if they limit the deliveries. She stated that maybe there is a better solution as far as a delivery space and a mechanism to transport goods as this can be a business killer.

Mr. Rogers stated that he felt they should talk to Ramsey as they have a very narrow street with a railroad crossing. Councilwoman Knudsen added that East Ridgewood Avenue has a lot of activity, and she agrees they need to address it without sacrificing the abilities of businesses to function.

Councilman Voigt stated that he was in agreement. Mayor Hache added that CBDAC was going to come up with a survey for the retailers and restaurants to get a sense of the logistics behind the deliveries and their frequency. They will try to come up with a solution that makes sense with those parameters.

2. Stop Signs at Gilbert Street and Hope Street

Ms. Mailander stated that in 2017 the Village Council adopted an ordinance to change yield intersection signs to stop signs on Hope Street in both directions of travel at the intersection of Gilbert Street. They had a request to have a four way stop, and the Village Engineer has said they should look at the accident data. Sergeant Chuck has looked at that and decided it didn’t warrant a stop sign on Gilbert but they could do a speed study for approximately a week and then do a search of relevant accident history for the intersection.

Mayor Hache stated that it is a steep slope and people pick up velocity on the way down. The stop sign at Hope has helped with the traffic on Hope but hasn’t don’t anything for the traffic on Gilbert. He added this was discussed at Citizens Safety Advisory Committee (CSAC).

Councilman Voigt stated that the opinion of CSAC was that they should put a stop sign there. He added that there are five concerned residents coming here tonight as well, and they should strongly consider putting a stop sign there. Ms. Mailander added that they don’t have many four way stops in Ridgewood as they get confusing. She added that they could do the speed study to get more data and then come back before the Village Council.

Mayor Hache stated that he didn’t know what the speed study would do, as residents are saying there is a problem and his observation is that it is a problem and he’s not sure what they would get out of the study. He added that visibility traveling south on Hope Street isn’t very good.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that they had this conversation at the corner of Kenilworth and Spring and there was a request for a four way stop, but there was something in the statute that stated you couldn’t do a four way stop. Mr. Rogers stated there is a guideline that talks about what types of intersections can have four way stops. Councilwoman Knudsen stated that her opinion is that the residents know best, and she also agrees that the four way stop signs can be confusing. So, she would be supportive of putting the stop sign there immediately if they are permitted to do so.

Councilman Sedon stated that an intersection with a stop sign and a yield may be more confusing than an intersection with a four way stop. Councilwoman Knudsen added that having double sided stop signs significantly improves the outcome.

Ms. Mailander stated that she would have Mr. Rutishauser provide her with the criteria as to what is necessary and then they would go from there.

3. Technology Update

Ms. Mailander stated that Dylan Hansen, Director of IT, was there to discuss the improvements to the website and answer any questions the Village Council may have.

Mr. Hansen stated that he has been meeting regularly with Councilwoman Knudsen regarding the website structure, layout, and graphics. There are a couple of issues regarding old menus showing up during a google search, which is updated automatically, so he recommended going to the website and searching directly from there. He added that they have been getting mixed feedback, but for the most part it is positive. He stated that they came up with templates of the Boards and Committees and the Departments that they want to apply to. All that should be completed Friday or Saturday.

Mr. Hansen stated that they would then go to the Departments to make sure that their information is up to date. He added that he spoke to Ms. Mailander about the Boards and Committees and finding a way to communicate to them only through the Council liaison and the Chairman. Recently there was a problem when a member sent an ordinance and asked them to post it but the ordinance wasn’t adopted yet. As far as minutes and agendas are concerned, they have been getting them from the Boards and post them as quickly as possible.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that they downloaded every page for Boards and Committees and printed them into a PDF so the liaisons could add their input and send it back which would make it easy to update. She added that it was important to have that level of continuity for everyone to follow and understand. She stated that the website shows on different devices and is easy to switch over.

Councilwoman Knudsen added that Mayor Hache made a point that you can see that most people are using their thumb to use the buttons, so it’s easy for users. Mayor Hache added that Mr. Hansen can track how people are using the website and what they are using. Mr. Hansen stated that it will tell him what types of devices are being used and also which parts of the site are being visited. Councilwoman Knudsen added it helps knowing what buttons are being clicked on the most frequently, so those most commonly clicked can be adjusted to the top. Mr. Hansen stated that most people want to get to any place on the website in two clicks, so trying to navigate that can be tough, but they are doing their best to make that possible.

Councilman Sedon asked Mr. Hansen if he knew when he would be finished with all of the minor updates. Mr. Hansen stated that when they get done with the templates, then they can make sure that information is up to date with the Boards and Committees.

Mr. Hansen stated that regarding the sound system, he called in the company that installed it six or seven years ago, and they brought in the original specs. The one thing that wasn’t installed when they did the speakers was the lights. They found that a lot of the speakers are actually focused into the lights. He stated that at that time, the company gave him a price to resolve the issue because it wasn’t really their fault due to the changes in design. The price was around $65,000 and a loss of the room for two and a half months. At the time, he was told to look at another possible fix, so he had them come back in and recalibrate the system. He added that they were on a two-channel amp at the time, so you couldn’t turn up the amplifiers without getting feedback.

Mr. Hansen stated that he went over to the Guitar Center and the sound engineer recommended a four-channel amp which allows for more sound out of the back, but it only has two speakers there. He added that he wants to add a third speaker to fill the center of the room, as well as add a feedback filter to the microphone, but it just worked in that one, so he would need about twenty four of them. He went back to the sound engineer who then recommended putting in a sound board that has a built-in function. Mr. Hansen priced out a sound board, and used GovSpend and laid that out with a video system for cameras, which is when Ms. Mailander mentioned Swagit.

Mr. Hansen stated that the automated cameras with a three camera system would allow the videos on YouTube, Facebook and TV, and it would be in high definition on the internet. The new system sent over the specs, and he talked to one of the vendors, who told him everything he would need and the contract was just finalized. Once the contracts are signed, he will order the audio equipment and he will utilize Signal Services to run the cabling. He added that he hopes this makes a big impact, and after this, they may have to look at some kind of sound absorbing materials for the echo.

Mayor Hache asked if Mr. Hansen could speak more about Swagit. Mr. Hansen stated that you can go right to the website and pull up the video with the agenda, and after the meeting you can click on part of the agenda and it will fast forward you to that part of the video. Ms. Mailander added that you could also search for a single word and it would take you to three seconds before that word is mentioned in the video. He added that the equipment can be programmed to auto play the meetings on public access channels throughout the week until the next meeting.

Mr. Hansen added that sometimes they cannot use the room, but the new system allows them to buy additional equipment and televise from any location on the system, such as downstairs or at the Fire Department.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that they have discussed dropping the speakers down below a certain point, which may have resolved the speakers getting lost in the arch and the lights, so they were ordering new equipment but were going to utilize the same speakers. Mr. Hansen stated that they were still going to utilize the speakers, but since they were going to cut down the possibility of feedback they could turn up the volume more on them, so they will disperse more sound. If they take the speakers out of the ceiling, they use the ceiling to project the sound, and taking them down will make them more high pitched.

Councilman Voigt asked how much all of Mr. Hansen’s suggestions would cost for the sound system. Mr. Hansen stated that he priced out the sound system at $2,000, the amplifier was $800, and then the speakers were another $3,000, and then wiring and the time of the employees to run the wires. Councilman Voigt asked if a sound expert came into the room and said what was needed. Mr. Hansen stated that he had the company that came in that initially did the install and they were recommending moving everything and doing a calibration, and the calibration didn’t help at all. Councilman Voigt asked if they could call in someone else as he didn’t want to spend all this money if they didn’t really know what the issue is. Mr. Hansen stated that he had one company come in who looked at it and said they weren’t interested, adding that he would find another to come in.

Mayor Hache added that having someone come in and showing them what has been done and what is being done, and making sure that they can look at the whole thing. Mr. Hansen added that they were going to need the sound board for the Swagit system to link the audio,                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 no matter what.

Councilman Voigt stated that he was concerned that this has been going on for years and they need to fix it in the next month or so as its inexcusable to the people that are trying to listen to what they were saying.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that the company that did the install were sound engineers and audio experts, but the issue was that the lights weren’t in the drawings which created this problem. They have attempted to work around the issue, but they have the information already it’s just a matter of trying to do different things without addressing the issue that has already been diagnosed. Mr. Hansen stated that he would look for sound engineers in the area to come in and see what they say.

Mayor Hache stated that if the simple solution is to use different lights, maybe that would be it. Councilwoman Knudsen stated that if they were to remove two lights in the back, they might have an answer without spending anything more than having someone remove them and that might be what works. Mr. Hansen stated that he could have the company come back and say where they should put the speakers with those lights and move them before talking about changing any aesthetics of the lighting.

Mayor Hache stated that the suggestion is to talk to someone who knows what they are doing and they could say anything. Councilwoman Knudsen said that sometimes it’s a matter of changing one thing, and by having someone move the speaker you would have an answer. Mr. Hansen stated that he would call in the company that did it and would reach out to sound engineers that were used by surrounding municipalities.

Mr. Hansen stated that the new camera system in the caucus room is no longer working. Verizon is doing away with all copper lines which has a lot to do with the connection with The Stable. Village Hall has now been moved to digital, so if they need to set up a seminar they have an IP camera system that should be in place by the end of next week. Councilwoman Knudsen asked if copper was also being discontinued for residential use as well. Mr. Hansen stated that they are putting a lot of pressure to move over the lines from copper. He has been migrating each facility to some type of digital line, adding that Toshiba announced that they will no longer be making phone systems. He added that looking down the road they may have to replace the entire system.

Mayor Hache asked what the ETA was on the Swagit system. Ms. Mailander stated that it was probably March. Mr. Hansen stated that once they get the signed contracts in their hands then they would give the install date.

Councilman Sedon asked if the Swagit system has the feature that allowed it to go to any agenda item going backwards. Mr. Hansen said he wasn’t sure if they could do it manually going backwards, but he knows that the contract is for going forward. Councilman Sedon stated that it would be worth asking if it was possible. Ms. Mailander stated she would ask.

Mayor Hache stated that they have the E-notice system with an email address and a name, asking if it was possible to map that to a specific address so that if there is an E-notice going out to relevant areas only. Mr. Hansen stated that with E-notice, they only know the name and email address. Mayor Hache asked if they could add an address to it. Mr. Hansen said that would be more related to the Swift 911 system, which is how water sends out their messages to specific locations. Mayor Hache asked if we could target specifically, as people that receive too many general messages become desensitized. Mr. Hansen stated that they would probably have to create a new form online for people to include their address to allow them to geolocate.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that there are some individuals who ask to have the podium moved to different sides of the room so that members of the audience can see facial expression. She wondered if Swagit gave them the ability to see on the screens someone who is speaking at the microphone. Ms. Mailander stated that she didn’t believe so, but there would be a camera on the podium that would then be televised. Mr. Hansen stated that the company would be coming in and telling him where the cameras should go to get the podium, Council, and the audience. Ms. Mailander stated that they could ask the company.   Councilwoman Knudsen stated that occasionally they are asked to move the podium, but they use that for Planning Board, and Board of Adjustment and moving it in any direction compromises the ability of Board members to participate during hearings.

1. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

Rurik Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, stated that after listening to the discussion about deliveries downtown, he urged the Village Council to stay out of it as there are a lot of restaurants and deliveries that have to be made. He added that the Council is not smart enough to be able to contribute to this debate, and there is too much pressure for the Council to just want to do things. He urged them to leave it to the merchants to figure it out among themselves.

Mr. Halaby stated that he listened to Mr. Hansen about the website, and as Ms. Mailander would tell the Village Council he is very supportive of the Village employees. He added that the work started in earnest only two months ago.

Mike Elias, Ice Cream by Mike, 305 East Ridgewood Avenue, stated that he felt Councilwoman Knudsen was spot on by saying the Village Council has to do the due diligence in understanding what the vendors need and can do. He added that the Police have a public service concern, while the vendors have revenue concern and a business to run and if they can’t get the deliveries they can’t make money.

Joanne Ricci, from Raymond’s, stated that she agreed and thanked the Village Council for agreeing to look into this further. She added that there are at least ten different deliveries that they get, and she understands it is a lot, and she understands that the retailers need to have the parking access. She stated that the Police have told her drivers that they need to go across the street to the loading zone by Lucky Jeans, and that really is where they should be. Perhaps, rather than limiting hours, which may be disastrous, they could look for places to be made into loading zones on each block on the side streets where it would be convenient for the businesses to get their deliveries. Larger supply companies place as many deliveries as possible as they can put on one truck, which is how they stay in business. She is on their route at their convenience, rather than it being at her convenience.

Michael Velicu, 250 Hope Street, stated that the deliveries together with the sidewalk and the traffic are all signs of a struggling infrastructure that is almost incapable of withstanding the number of restaurants. He added that in TripAdvisor there are 100 restaurants in the Village which means hundreds and hundreds of trucks. We have to look at different ways of doing this, and it is unfair in his opinion to be so tough on the restaurants’ needs. Obviously, the restaurants are going to take over the sidewalks, there will be hundreds of trucks, tremendous traffic, and if nobody has any problem with a restaurant of 300 seats in a place where there was nothing before, it is unfair to be tough on what the restaurants need. With the number of restaurants, this is going to be a challenge from now on, and limiting the hours of delivery so dramatically, feels like an anti-business movement. Mr. Velicu stated that he would help as much as he could on his advisory board and try to provide the right information, but this is going to be tough.

Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that this is his third time discussing this issue, adding that he fully supports the Village Council’s decision to change the date of the Board of Education election. He added that based on the events of this past Monday, he felt he needed to speak about it again. He is disappointed that the BOE has decided to file a frivolous law suit at the taxpayers’ expense regarding this matter. It is doing nothing but dividing the Village and is a waste of taxpayers’ money. He added that he fully supports the Village Council, as this seems senseless to him. Mr. Loving stated that the BOE made a statement that had they not filed the suit, they were concerned that parents would be suing the BOE. However, it is the State Department of Education and the County of Bergen that has mandated that this election take place in April. He reiterated his support for the Village Council and thanked them for doing the right thing.

Mr. Loving stated that he believed the lights could be lowered. So, if they could be lowered and then conduct a test with the lights out of the way of the speakers, then maybe see what the story is without spending any money.

There were no additional comments from the public.

Mayor Hache stated that the issue with the deliveries isn’t something that the Village Council is trying to focus on but came out of frustration from some retailers and restaurant owners in particular locations. They are not trying to tell business owners how to run their businesses, as they are not voting on anything but are opening a dialogue that will continue. He stated that they were humble enough to admit that this was not their expertise, which is why they are doing outreach and due diligence. There is a lot of stuff that needs to get done, and he reviewed the current projects that the Village Council has undertaken.

Councilwoman Knudsen stated that for close to a year there was an invisible home button on the website that allowed them to click on it to see what updates were happening, but it didn’t go live until recently. She thanked Mr. Hansen and Mishi because there was a lot of input. She appreciated that this has come together so nicely.

1. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION

Deputy Village Clerk, Donna Jackson read Resolution #19-38 to go into Closed Session as follows:

1. ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Mayor Hache, seconded by Councilwoman Knudsen, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Work Session was adjourned at 9:48 P.M.

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                                                                                                   Ramon M. Hache, Sr.                             

                                                                                                                        Mayor                           

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              Donna M. Jackson

           Deputy Village Clerk