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20170802 Village Council Work Session

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, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY ON AUGUST 2, 2017 AT 7:30 PM

 

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

Mayor Knudsen called the meeting to order at 7:35 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. At roll call, the following were present: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh and Mayor Knudsen. Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney; and Donna M. Jackson, Deputy Village Clerk.  

Mayor Knudsen led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and held a Moment of Silence for all the men and women serving our nation and all first responders.

  1. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

Mayor Knudsen asked if there were any comments or questions from the public.

Marcia Ringel, 250 Ferris Place, thanked the Village Council for allocating funds for the improvements to the bathrooms at Graydon Pool. Ms. Ringel also thanked the Village Council for recognizing and preserving Ridgewood’s historic heritage. She noted that the changes to the bathrooms at Graydon Pool need to be monitored by an architect with expertise in historic buildings, and she thanked the Village Council for placing this as a discussion item on tonight’s agenda. Ms. Ringel assured the Village residents that the bathrooms will be entirely modern inside; it is the structure of the building and the exterior that needs to be historically preserved.

Ms. Ringel stated that, recently, the Village Council passed a resolution approving an application to the State Historic Preservation Office to place Graydon Park on the State and National Registers of Historic Places. The Historic Preservation Commission has followed suit and written a letter of support that will be included in the application. Ms. Ringel e-mailed the Village Council and Village Manager a copy of this letter earlier today. Ms. Ringel noted that, while it is important that the bathroom upgrade not interfere with a positive outcome from the application, the process needs to be completed with sensitivity to the age of the structure, regardless of any additional historic designation, to preserve the stone exterior. The bathroom building was built in 1949 to replicate the nearby skaters’ shelter, built by the W.P.O. in 1936, which now houses the badge office and the snack bar. Ms. Ringel applauded and thanked the Village Council for recognizing the importance of hiring an architect with relevant expertise to oversee this project. Ms. Ringel noted the significance of Graydon Park for many generations. She applauded the reinstatement of the reduced Graydon Pool Passes, which started yesterday, August 1, 2017, at a cost of $55.00 per child and $60.00 per adult versus the $120.00 fee charged for a full season.   Ms. Ringel read a letter from Bishop John O’Hara, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of New York, Episcopal Vicar of Manhattan and Staten Island, and Vicar for Planning, whose family moved to Ridgewood in 1951 and who still receives the Graydon Pool Newsletter via e-mail. Bishop O’Hara wrote: “I commend you for your efforts on behalf of Graydon, which is a real treasure and something unique. I’m glad you have come together and are heading in the right direction. I very rarely get to Ridgewood anymore, but when I do, I always pass by the pool regardless of season. What wonderful times we had there. I am thrilled you are still in the business of making memories for the present generation. Graydon Pool was a big part of our lives growing up in Ridgewood. I am so pleased the Village residents have stepped up to the plate to preserve it for present and future generations. Every now and then some folks come along, as they did in the past, with proposals that would destroy the pool and redevelop the property into heaven-knows-what. I remember very clearly an episode in the 1970’s that suggested that the pool be replaced by a concrete structure and other support facilities, that would have destroyed the property and removed a community treasure unique to Ridgewood; a treasure you can’t find anywhere else. I applaud your efforts to preserve and enhance Graydon, and I am humble and grateful that you wish to share my comments. It has been a long time since my late parents moved from the Village in September, 1985, about a year after my ordination to the priesthood, but the wonderful memories I hold in my heart never fade.” Ms. Ringel stated that there are people out there who send her notes like this all the time, and there are people out there who don’t send notes, but think that Graydon Pool is very significant in Ridgewood history, and that it must be preserved. A lot of people care.

There being no further comments from the public, Mayor Knudsen closed the public portion of the meeting.

  1. DISCUSSION
  1. Ridgewood Water

  1. Purchase of Backhoe Loader

Ms. Mailander explained that this discussion item is for the purchase of one Caterpillar Model 420F2 Backhoe Loader for Ridgewood Water through the National Joint Powers Alliance Cooperative Purchasing Program. The backhoe loader will replace a 1988 John Deere Backhoe. The $135,478 cost is in the Water Capital Budget.

  1. Purchase of F250 Pickup Truck

Ms. Mailander explained that this item is for the purchase on a Ford F-250 Pickup Truck for the Water Department under State Contract. The $32,219.50 cost is in the Water Capital Budget.

  1.          Award of Professional Services - Engineering - Evaluation of SUEZ Treatment Changes and Associated Work

  1. Award of Professional Services - Legal - Evaluation of SUEZ                  Treatment Changes and Associated Work

Councilwoman Walsh recused herself from these discussions.

Ms. Mailander explained that in May, 2017, Village representatives met with representatives of SUEZ Water. The Village purchases bulk water through SUEZ Water, and SUEZ Water intends to modify the treatment of their water. The firm of Mott MacDonald has developed a scope of services for the evaluation of this treatment, so that when SUEZ water mixes with Ridgewood water, which is also being treated, the interaction can be determined. The scope entails setting up testing rigs in the Ridgewood Water system and the SUEZ Water system to simulate the effects of the separate treatments and the blending that would occur when the two waters meet in the Ridgewood Water System. The purpose of this testing is to ascertain any effects and make the necessary adjustments prior to introducing the newly treated SUEZ water into the Ridgewood Water system during the summer peak of 2018. The proposal also includes a modeling assessment to determine if the purchase of water from the Passaic Valley Water Commission is feasible to replace or supplement SUEZ Water. Since the testing rigs require time to be erected and conditioned to the water, time is of the essence. Approval of a professional services contract with Mott MacDonald, in the amount of $177,300, is recommended. Funding for these services is coming out of the Operating Budget.

After discussing this issue with SUEZ Water in May and June, SUEZ Water has decided to postpone their implementation of these treatments until October, 2017. Since the Mott MacDonald report will not be ready by October, 2017, the Village of Ridgewood will cease purchasing water from SUEZ Water in October. The consequences of this change, and the Village’s contractual obligations and contingencies should the test results be unfavorable, are being discussed with Village Attorney Matthew Rogers and Special Counsel, Lewis Goldshore.

Ms. Mailander further explained that, because of this testing and because of any legal ramifications and any legalities of the project, Richard Calbi, Director of Operations, recommended the services of Lewis Goldshore, Esq. Mr. Goldshore was the attorney of record for the Village in 2015, when Ridgewood Water dealt with NJDEP and USEPA violations and orders. Mr. Goldshore will charge the same rate as he did in 2015, which is $200 per hour. This cost is in the Water Utility Operating Budget.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Calbi explained that a memorandum he received from Earl Schneider of the firm Mott MacDonald, expressed specific concerns with the potential for an altering of hardness corrosion factors, and lead and copper concentration. Ridgewood Water has been successfully treating for a corrosion control issue in the system since an exceedance was found in 2012, and there is concern that the change in treatment proposed by SUEZ Water will have an adverse effect on the current treatment. Mr. Calbi explained that the rigs replicate a natural system. The rigs will be established with Ridgewood Water for several months and then SUEZ water will be brought in to see how the two interact. The results of this testing should be available by May, 2018, which is the peak time that SUEZ water is purchased, during the spring and summer months.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Calbi explained that if the two waters are found to be incompatible, no more water will be purchased from SUEZ Water in 2018, which could have ramifications in terms of water restrictions. Upwards of four million gallons of water per day are purchased from SUEZ Water during July and August.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Calbi explained that potential contingency plans include purchasing water from the Passaic Valley Water Commission; however, this would require several thousand feet of piping, as well as an evaluation of how their water will interact with Ridgewood’s water. This plan would not be completed until 2019 or 2020. Other interconnections were also considered, and in the majority of cases, these interconnections involve water going out to other systems in an emergency situation.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Calbi explained that two testing rigs are proposed. The rigs will be manufactured strictly for the Village’s use. One rig will be placed in the Ridgewood water system close to where the interconnection with SUEZ Water exists. The second rig will be placed in SUEZ Water’s system to help establish parameters on the basis of what their water is today, and how their water itself changes when they start treatment.

Mayor Knudsen asked how the public will be educated on this situation.   Mr. Calbi stated that it must first be determined that SUEZ Water will comply with the Village’s plans. He noted that the League of Women Voters will be hosting a forum in early October, which may be a good time to discuss this issue. Information will be posted on the Village website once it is available. Mr. Calbi pointed out that the key message in this situation is that Ridgewood Water looks out for their customers. Mayor Knudsen agreed that the actions taken by Ridgewood Water were for the benefit of the customers, and their safety, health, and wellbeing.

Councilwoman Walsh came back to the dais at this time.

  1. Parking          
  2. Chestnut Street Lot Kiosk

Mayor Knudsen asked for feedback on the Chestnut Street Lot Kiosk from her fellow Village Council members.

Councilman Voigt stated that he was in favor of the six-month pilot program.

Mayor Knudsen stated that her review of interested vendors indicated that Cale seemed to have the best system for the Village’s purposes.

Chief Financial Officer, Robert Rooney, stated that he agreed with Mayor Knudsen, noting that he has seen Cale’s product in action and has spoken to people who used the system, and it came highly recommended.

Councilwoman Walsh agreed that the Cale system was the best of the interested vendors, noting its ease of use.  

Mr. Rooney pointed out that Cale also supports the Village’s future plans for additions such as license place readers.

Mayor Knudsen suggested placing this kiosk in more than one location. Mr. Rooney explained that the Chestnut Street Lot was chosen because there were no meters, everything was ParkMobile, and it was an easy transition. However, if the Village Council wishes, another location could be considered. Village Manager/Clerk Heather Mailander, recommended sticking with the Chestnut Street Lot to see how it works, noting that the previous kiosk turned out to be less than desirable and revenues were reduced. If it is successful, another location could be considered.

Mayor Knudsen pointed out that putting this kiosk in a lot that is already electronically controlled may not give a clear picture of a possible shift in revenue. Mr. Rooney suggested starting with the Chestnut Street Lot. He will look into the cost associated in putting in a second kiosk.

Under questioning by Councilman Sedon, Mr. Rooney stated that the people he contacted were very happy with the maintenance provided by Cale. Cameras will be installed in the lot to help identify anyone trying to abuse the system.

A resolution will be prepared for the next meeting.

  1. Town Garage Property

Mayor Knudsen asked for input from her fellow Village Councilmembers on how they feel about purchasing the Town Garage Property.

Councilman Sedon was in favor of purchasing the Town Garage Property. This would allow a debate on whether another garage is needed on North Walnut Street, and in the interim, the Village could encapsulate it so that the contamination is relatively taken care of, providing addition parking in the Central Business District (CBD).

Councilman Hache also supported the Village’s purchase of the Town Garage Property. He estimated that it would take only five months to recoup the lost tax revenue from this property through surface parking fees.

Councilman Voigt stated that he was not in favor of purchasing the Town Garage Property. He felt the building of the Hudson Street Garage needed to be the first priority.   He expressed a concern that if the Village purchased the property, it would have to be bonded and then, potentially, the area underneath it and adjacent to it would have to be remediated, which would be very expensive. This proposal could be looked at in the future, after the Hudson Street Garage is built.

Mayor Knudsen pointed out that the combination of parking in the Hudson Street Garage and on the Town Garage Property would actually reduce the per-parking-stall cost of constructing the Hudson Street Garage alone.

Councilman Sedon stated that he agreed with moving forward with the construction of the Hudson Street Garage, as well as providing surface parking on the Town Garage Property. He pointed out that the Town Garage Property could be turned into a surface parking lot quicker than the parking garage can be built.

Mayor Knudsen noted that if the timing were right, the Town Garage Property would provide the option of a place to park displaced vehicles from Hudson Street during the garage’s construction.

Councilwoman Walsh stated that she was never in favor of purchasing the Town Garage Property. She felt the first thing to do is to compel the current parking owner to clean-up the site.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Village Engineer, Christopher Rutishauser, stated that the Village does have some data on the contamination on the Town Garage Property; however, he did not feel it was all-inclusive. The primary contamination is hydrocarbon-based, but there are some dry cleaner chemicals coming across the site and through the Town Garage, from an origination point up on Chestnut Street. The cost of remediation is difficult to determine. Encapsulation would leave some contamination in place, as long as there is no impact on the water table and the proposed future uses allow it. Mr. Rutishauser said he could research other places that have purchased encapsulated properties, also known as Brownfields. The NJDEP does offer grants for Brownfields. Mr. Rutishauser recalled that the Village previously applied for a USEPA Grant at the beginning of the year. The Village did get quite far in the grant process, but was ultimately turned down. The Village will be looking for funding for any type of clean-up done on the site.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Rutishauser stated that the clean-up would be better done as one project, including the Walnut Street Lot, because some of the contamination from the Town Garage has migrated into the Village’s property, and some of the contamination, that may have originated on the Village’s property, may also be found on the Town Garage Property.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Rutishauser explained that there is approximately $900,000 set aside in Capital Funds for the remediation work on the Village’s property, which includes nine underground storage tanks from the fallen Texaco Station. Tank removal would be a relatively rapid process. Then, depending on the nature of the residual contamination, there may be a need for long-term monitoring wells and a pump-and-treat effort, during which time, if the contaminants are at a low enough level, the property could be used for surface parking. Mr. Rutishauser felt that once the UST’s have been removed, the bulk of any contamination encountered is removed, and the area is backfilled, the property could be paved, as a remedial action work plan is developed with the Village’s licensed site remediation professional.

Under questioning by Councilman Sedon, Mr. Rutishauser stated that approximately two year ago, the current property owner removed a waste oil tank. Mr. Rutishauser stated that he has not received any notifications from the current property owner’s licensed site remediation professional as to the status of their clean-up efforts. Mr. Rutishauser pointed out that since the DEP has outsourced the oversite of remediation efforts to the private consulting industry, there is less information available.

Mr. Rogers recommended placing this discussion issue on the agenda for a Village Council Closed Session meeting. Mayor Knudsen asked for this discussion item to be placed on the agenda for a Village Council Closed Session Meeting to be held on August 9, 2017.

  1.          Commuter Shuttle Bus

Ms. Mailander explained that this discussion item is for a commuter shuttle bus, similar to busses that are operated in Long Beach Island, New Jersey, and Rutherford, New Jersey.

Mayor Knudsen referred to an e-mail from a resident regarding the operation of a free shuttle bus that would run loops around the Village bringing residents downtown and to the Ridgewood Train Station at a cost to the Village of approximately $250,000. Another e-mail from a resident referred to the Long Beach Island, New Jersey free shuttle. Mayor Knudsen explained that in her research, she found that Rutherford, New Jersey also offered a free commuter shuttle bus service for residents, so she discussed its operation with the Mayor of Rutherford, Joseph DeSalvo.

Mayor Knudsen suggested implementing a six-month pilot program. She suggested using two shuttle buses, the Senior Citizen Bus and a leased shuttle bus, for this six-month pilot program. She called the Village Councilmembers attention to Rutherford’s schedule and bus loop routes, which were fairly simple, clear and concise, and also included a train schedule. Mayor Knudsen also referred to a shuttle bus route map she prepared with Councilman Sedon that serviced only the east side of Ridgewood, west of Route 17 and east of Maple Avenue. The grid-like shape of these particular streets makes them ideal for a pilot program.

Councilman Sedon felt this proposal accomplishes the goal of allowing residents to keep their cars in their driveways instead of using parking spaces. He felt the six-month pilot program will supply the data needed to determine if the program is viable.

Councilwoman Walsh stated that a similar shuttle bus program services Long Island, New York. She has observed that this shuttle bus is either full or empty, which creates challenges; in particular people who cannot ride the shuttle bus because it is full. Councilwoman Walsh noted that determinations must be made as to the number of seats needed and how it will be regulated. Mayor Knudsen suggested registering residents on a lottery basis.

Councilman Hache agreed that a lottery system is probably the best and most fair way to regulate ridership. He stated that he was very interested in going to Rutherford and seeing the operation of their shuttle bus. Councilman Hache asked that a little more thought be given to the initial quadrant chosen for the pilot program. He suggested identifying the part of the Village where most of the train commuters are living.

Councilman Voigt suggested doing some market research to see which residents would be interested in using the shuttle bus service, and the times they would use it. Mayor Knudsen agreed, and added that after the market research is complete, information could then be gathered on the types and capacities of vehicles.

Councilman Sedon suggested getting input from the Ridgewood Engineering Department. He pointed out that the lottery should include residents’ addresses.

  1. Hudson Street - Redevelopment Plan

Mr. Rogers explained that the concept of identifying the Hudson Street Parking Lot as an area in need of redevelopment is something that can provide certain advantages to the Village, not only in its identification as actually being an area in need of redevelopment, but also in terms of the amount of time and expense that it will take to go through the process of dealing with design and build bidding, and the like. The Village has been through this process once before with regard to Walnut Street. The criteria, that is permitted under the statute, has certain defining aspects that need to be discussed. The issue, in terms of the process of identifying an area in need of redevelopment, can emanate from the Village Council in a request to the Planning Board to have a planning study done with regard to whether or not it would meet the criteria under the statute. If this action is deemed appropriate by the Planning Board and then adopted by the Village Council with a Public Hearing, it will provide opportunities for which the statute was designed, which will allow the Village to directly negotiate with particular contractors and designers for a garage, rather than going through the bidding process, saving time and money. Since the lot is a municipal lot in need of work, it can be approached in a faster, more efficient manner.

Mr. Rogers asked the Village Councilmembers to consider asking for this type of study to be done by the Planning Board, and adopting a resolution making a request to the Planning Board to consider whether or not the Hudson Street parking area is an area in need of redevelopment. If the Village Council is in agreement, Mr. Rogers will contact the Village Planner, Brigette Bogart.

Mayor Knudsen pointed out that time and money will be saved as a result of working directly with contractors and designers for the parking garage, rather than going through the bidding process.  

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Rogers explained that in order to satisfy the statute, the particular area and lots involved must be identified. In this case, Mr. Rogers recommended specifically looking at the Hudson Street Lot and nothing more than that. A determination/recommendation would come from the Village Planner, and then from the Planning Board back to the Village Council, who would decide by ordinance as to whether or not it is in an area in need of redevelopment. The ordinance would restrict the property to one redevelopment use, such as parking.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mayor Knudsen explained that she originally discussed this process with Ms. Bogart as a way to explore options, and a way to save time and money on the development of the Hudson Street Lot for parking.

Councilman Hache stated that a great deal of time and resources has been spent on this property, and it is now time to move forward by the fastest and most fiscally responsible way possible.

It was the consensus of the Village Council to authorize the drafting of a resolution making a request to the Planning Board to consider whether or not the Hudson Street parking area is an area in need of redevelopment.

  1. Budget
  2. Purchase of Ambulance

Ms. Mailander explained that this budget item is the purchase of a 2017 Ford Ambulance to replace a 2007 Road Rescue Ambulance. This vehicle will be purchased through the Houston-Galveston Area Council Cooperative Purchasing Program (HGAC) from VCI Emergency Vehicle Specialists, out of Berlin, New Jersey, at a cost not to exceed $249,348. The funds are in the Capital Account and it will take approximately 10 months from the date the order is placed until it is delivered.

  1. Purchase of F350 Extended Cab

Ms. Mailander explained that this budget item is for the purchase of a Ford F350 Extended Cab for the Parks Department, to be purchased through State Contract from Cherry Hill Winner Ford, out of Cherry Hill, New Jersey, at a cost of $44,000. Funding for this purchase is available through the 2017 Capital Budget.

  1. Surplus of Ford Crown Victoria

Ms. Mailander explained that this budget item is to declare a Police 2005 Crown Victoria as surplus. It is no longer safe to be on the road and there are no parts left that the mechanics feel are of any use or salvageable. The proposal is to donate this vehicle to the Fire Department to use for their drills, and to ultimately be sold for scrap metal.

  1. Results of Zabriskie-Schedler Site Cleanup Bid

Ms. Mailander explained that this budget item is for the Initial Clean-up (Phase I) of the Zabriskie-Schedler property. A Community Development Block Grant was received for this work. Phase I includes the removing and disposing of the well pump; applying to the New Jersey Division of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) to decommission the well and backfill it with clean soil; dispose of and clear trees that are dead or storm damaged beyond salvage as certified by a New Jersey certified tree expert or an arborist or master arborist; demolition of the garage and garden shed; and the installation of grass, seed and mulch for soil stabilization, where required.

Ms. Mailander explained that there were two plan holders eligible to bid. The Village received one bid in the amount of $99,875 from DTS Tucking, LLC, Hawthorne, NJ. This vendor has completed a number of projects within the Village.

Ms. Mailander pointed out that the Village must move forward with this budget item, as the grant expires shortly. A second grant has been filed for Phase II, but the decision on this grant will not be known until sometime next year.

It was the consensus of the Village Council to authorize a resolution to award the work of the bid.

  1. Award of Professional Services - Auditing and Accounting Services

Ms. Mailander explained that, in 2015, the Village issued an RFP for professional audit services. Five firms responded. After reviewing the proposals and interviewing finalists, the firm of Nisivoccia, LLP was selected for the years 2015 and 2016. The services provided by Nisivoccia, LLP have been outstanding. This firm was instrumental in assisting the Village, enhancing internal accounting controls, and managing financial transactions. Mr. Rooney strongly suggested the reappointment of Nisivoccia, LLP to conduct the 2017 audit.

  1. Award of Professional Services - Parking Garage User Allocation Study

Ms. Mailander explained that Walker Parking Consultants were used to perform a parking garage user group allocation study for a 325-car facility in March, 2016. With the proposed construction of a 240-car garage facility, the Village must now determine the appropriate mix of users to best service the current parking needs, and the financial and management capabilities. The recommendation is to award this professional services contract again to Walker Parking Consultants at a cost not to exceed $8,500.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Ms. Mailander stated that the turn-around time should be fairly quick.

  1. Third Floor Conference Room Furniture Replacement

Ms. Mailander stated that in June, 2017, the Village Council passed a resolution to purchase lunch room chairs and tables and 3rd Floor conference room chairs from KI Furniture. The Village purchased the lunch room furniture, but not the conference room chairs, as these were discontinued. A recommendation was made to purchase chairs from BFI Furniture, the same vendor used by Mr. Calbi for the purchase of conference chairs in the Water Department, at a cost not to exceed $5,000. Funding for this purchase is available through the 2017 Capital Budget.

  1. Graydon Pool Bathrooms - Historic Architect

Mayor Knudsen asked for input from her fellow Village Councilmembers regarding using the services of a Historic Architect to preserve the historic integrity of the exterior of the Graydon Pool bathroom building.

All the Councilmembers were in favor of authorizing a resolution to use the services of the Historic Architect for the Graydon Pool bathroom building.

  1. Declare 1989 Pierce Pumper Surplus

Ms. Mailander explained that this budget item is to declare a 1989 Pierce fire engine as surplus. The fire engine is 28 years old and has mechanical problems. A 2017 Pierce fire engine has been ordered and will be delivered at the end of the month. Once the new fire engine is in service, the 1989 fire engine will be sold. The estimated value is approximately $15,000.

Under questioning by Councilman Sedon, Ms. Mailander explained that towns with limited resources and towns that need a fire truck for a short time frame, purchase older fire engine.

  1. Policy
  2. Authorize Execution of Lease Extension for Cell Tower at Water             Pollution Control Facility

Ms. Mailander explained that this cell tower is operated in conjunction with the Borough of Glen Rock. The Village Councilmembers all agreed to authorize the execution of the lease extension for the cell tower.

  1.          Knights of Columbus Request for Extended Parking Hudson Street Lot

Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, and Voigt, and Village Attorney Rogers recused themselves from this discussion because they are all members of the Knights of Columbus.

Ms. Mailander explained that the Knights of Columbus has requested that the Village Council consider modifying the three-hour parking restrictions at the Hudson Street parking lot. Events are held at the Knights of Columbus Hall on Saturdays during the day, up until 6:00 p.m. Those who rent the hall and stay past the three-hour limit would continue to pay for the parking space over the three-hour limit.

Ms. Mailander explained that a suggestion was made to provide hang tags to people attending an event at the Knights of Columbus Hall. Ms. Mailander expressed a concern that this will set a precedent. Another solution would be to bag the meters at a cost of $10 per day, with the Village receiving payment at least a week and a half before the event. This solution would not create a precedent, as it occurs in other parking lots for other events.

Councilwoman Walsh noted that since the Hudson Street Lot is very busy on the weekends, she would only agree to the option of bagging the meters, since this is open to all businesses.

Mayor Knudsen asked for more information, including what the scheduling has been like in the past, the number parking spaces that would be required based on past event rental history; and the average length of an event.   This information would suggest a limit on the number of meters that would be allowed to be bagged. Ms. Mailander agreed to contact the Knights of Columbus for more information.

This discussion was carried until September, 2017.

  1. Dedication of Bench - Dunham Trail

Ms. Mailander explained that this item is for a memorial bench in honor of Andy Antista. Thirty of Mr. Antista’s relatives, friends, and neighbors collected funds to cover the full cost of the bench, plaque, and installation. The qualifying criteria has been met because Mr. Antista was a Ridgewood resident, a Village of Ridgewood teacher for over 20 years, and the President of Ridgewood Wildscape Association for over 20 years. The plaque will be 3” x 4”, which is standard, and the inscription will read: “Come sit awhile in memory of Andy Antista (August 7, 1939 to November 22, 2016) An Inspirational man who loved and was loved by family, friends and neighbors.” Ms. Mailander noted that the bench will be located in a flood way, so the Village Engineer has requested a permit by rule through the NJDEP. This area, located by a brook, was one of Mr. Antista’s favorite places.

Mayor Knudsen stated that Mr. Antista was a gentle, lovely man, who did many wonderful things for Ridgewood. She was very happy to honor him with this memorial bench. Mayor Knudsen noted that the donor list was very touching.

All of the Village Councilmembers were in favor of authorizing a resolution allowing the bench to be placed in the location requested, while waiting for NJDEP approval.

  1.          Leaf Summons Policy

Ms. Mailander explained that, in 2015, the traditional leaf pick-up, with residents receiving schedules of pick-up dates, was in effect. During 2015, 608 tickets were issued (no statistics on second offenders are available). In 2016, the leaf collection policy was changed. Instead of giving the time when the crews would be in the area, residents were given a time frame for when they could put leaves in the street. This policy will continue in 2017, as it is less confusing for the resident. Residents placing their leaves in the street after the designated time frame will receive a summons. Warnings were issued in 2016; however, it is being recommended that summonses be issued instead in 2017, in fairness to the residents who abide by the schedule.   Ms. Mailander noted that flyers were sent out late last year; this will not be the case in 2017, as the post card containing the schedule will be mailed out shortly. The Court has established a fine of $85.00, which is consistent with penalties for other first-time offenders of Village ordinances such as sign permits, water restrictions, and snow removal. A second summons will result in a fine of $183 ($150 for the fine and $32.00 in Court costs). During 2016, 523 summonses were issued and only 7 second violations were issued. Some of the residents who went to Court were found not guilty.

Ms. Mailander stated that information will also be posted on the Village website and updated in real-time by the Streets Department during leaf season. All areas within the Village will receive three pick-ups. Leaf pick-up for Area B will continue to be outsourced, which allows leaves to be picked-up in a timely manner.

Ms. Mailander added that, along with the information contained on the postcards and the website, notices will also be sent out in late September/early October, and again after the first leaf pick-up has started, reminding residents to refer to their leaf pick-up schedule. The Village will also notify as many landscapers as possible about the pick-up schedule. Ms. Mailander noted that every pick-up time frame has a weekend in it.

Mayor Knudsen asked if summonses could be issued the same day as the violation, so residents would be given the opportunity to offer proof if the leaves were not their leaves. Ms. Mailander noted that there is only one Code Enforcement Officer working on these summonses; however, the staff will do their best to expedite the process. She suggested trying to get the summonses out within one week.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Ms. Mailander understood that the issuance of summonses for violation of the leaf-pickup ordinance started in 2015, to discourage residents from putting their leaves on the street after the scheduled pick-up was complete. These leaves would remain until the next pick-up, creating hazardous conditions and upsetting residents who followed the leaf pick-up schedule. It was also frustrating to the Streets Department to have residents put leaves on the street after that street’s pick-up was completed.

Councilman Sedon appreciated the work being done to streamline the leaf pick-up process. He suggested issuing warnings instead of summonses for first time offenses. Ms. Mailander explained that the challenge with this is that there is only one Code Enforcement Officer, and she would have to have a list of the warnings that were issued when conducting inspections.

Mayor Knudsen suggested reducing the fine for first-time offenders and increasing it more significantly the second time. Ms. Mailander explained that the set fees are consistent with penalties for other first-time offenders of Village ordinances such as sign permits, water restrictions, and snow removal.

Ms. Mailander hoped that there would be a fewer number of summonses issued this year, as a result of better public education and the availability of information from various forums including mailings and the Village website.

  1. Operations
  2.          2018 Village Calendar

Ms. Mailander explained that every year a new theme is selected for the annual Village Calendar. The theme for 2017 was “Village Departments - Old and New”. Past year themes have included Ridgewood’s Historic Downtown; Ridgewood Board and Committee Members; Former Residents Who Established Lasting Ridgewood Institutions; and Local Artist Paintings of Ridgewood Scenes. The suggested theme for the 2018 Village Calendar is: “Ridgewood’s Welcoming Porches”. The Bolger Heritage Center at the Ridgewood Public Library has a large photographic collection of Ridgewood homes displaying a variety of interesting porches. Porches are often the first architectural feature you see when entering a house, and porches assist in providing a warm welcome to all. A variety of homes in a variety of areas within Ridgewood will be featured.

Councilman Sedon stated that the Shade Tree Commission would be interested in having a section on the calendar in the month of April to advertise the “Adopt-a-Tree” program. Ms. Mailander stated that this would certainly be provided, noting that boxes on the calendar are available for this time of advertising.

  1. 2018 Village Council Meeting Schedule

Ms. Mailander explained that the next year’s Village Council Meeting Schedule needs to be determined early so that the dates are set for the Village calendar and the preparation of bid packets for the preparation of the Village Council meeting minutes. Meetings are held, normally, on the first, second, and fourth Wednesdays of the month; however, this will vary if there is a holiday or other reason. This will be the case in 2018, and Ms. Mailander described the changes, as follows:

  • The first Wednesday in the month of January, 2018, is two days after the New Year’s Day holiday. The recommendation is to move the first Work Session forward one week, to January 17th, and the second Work Session forward one week, to January 31st.
  • The first Wednesday in the month of July, 2018, is Independence Day. The recommendation is to move both the Work Session and Public Meeting forward one week, to July 11th and July 18th.
  • The second Wednesday in the month of November, 2018 is during the League of Municipalities conference. The Monday of the second week in November is Veterans Day observed. The following week is the week of Thanksgiving. The recommendation is to move the Public Meeting to the fourth Wednesday of the month, November 28th.

Ms. Mailander also asked for the Village Councilmembers approval of setting September 8, 2018 as the date for “Coffee with the Council"

It was the consensus of the Village Councilmembers to accept the dates for the 2018 Village Council meetings and the date for the 2018 “Coffee with the Council”.

  1. Proposed Bus Stop at 401 Goffle Road

Ms. Mailander explained that NJ Transit received a request from passengers on the 148 Line to Midland Park asking for an additional northbound bus stop on Goffle Road in the vicinity of Liberty Street. The safest area for passengers to board/discharge from the bus is located in front of 401 Goffle Road, which is currently Lab Corp, because there is a parking lot and there are no sidewalks along the northbound side of Goffle Road. Without this bus stop, passengers have a lengthy walk to their homes in the evening.

It was the consensus of the Village Council to approved this request for a bus stop at 401 Goffle Road. Ms. Mailander will send the proposal to NJ Transit for their in-house review.

  1. Boards and Committees - Special Projects Task Force

Mayor Knudsen stated that she was asked by members of the Financial Advisory Committee (FAC) to meet and talk about where the FAC has been, where they are now, and where, perhaps, as a group that has a lot to offer the Village, they can best serve the Village. A suggestion was made to form a Special Projects Task Force, which would allow the FAC to have input on major projects, as the Village Council sees fit. The FAC members present at the meeting were very enthusiastic about this approach.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mayor Knudsen stated that the Village Council would determine which major projects would benefit from a review by the Special Projects Task Force. She pointed out, however, that there is nothing that could stop an individual or group from conducting independent research and reporting back to the Village Council.

Mayor Knudsen felt this is a great opportunity for the Village Council to channel the FAC’s energy and expertise into areas that would benefit both the Village Council and the Village at large.

  1. REVIEW OF AUGUST 9, 2017 REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING AGENDA

Ms. Mailander stated that there will be three proclamations including Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over 2017 Statewide Crackdown; Declare September Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month; and Declare September National Preparedness Month.

There is no introduction of ordinances for Ridgewood Water.

The scheduled public hearings for Ridgewood Water include: Water Capital Ordinance ($1,600,000) - Purchase of Elks Club Property.

Resolutions for Ridgewood Water include: Award Contract - Backhoe Loader; Award Contract - Ford F250 Pickup Truck; Award Professional Services Contract - Engineering Services for Evaluation of SUEZ Treatment Changes and Associated Work; and Award Professional Services Contract - Legal Services for Evaluation of SUEZ Treatment Changes and Associated Work.

There are no ordinances scheduled for introduction.

The scheduled public hearings include: Blue Collar Union Salary Ordinance; White Collar Union Salary Ordinance; Amend Chapter 145 Fees - Establish Fees for Tree Protection; Amend Chapter 265 - Vehicles and Traffic - No Stopping on Portion of West Ridgewood Avenue; Enact Title 39 on All Public School Properties; and Unlawful Enrollment of Students in Ridgewood Public Schools.

There will be a final vote on the following ordinance: Amend Chapter 260 - Trees and Shrubs.

Resolutions include: Award Contract Under Cooperative Purchasing Contract - Ambulance; Award Contract Under State Contract - Ford F350 Extended Cab; Award Professional Services Contract - Auditing and Accounting Services; Award Professional Services Contract - Parking Garage Allocation Study; Award Contract - Furniture for Conference Room at Village Hall; Award Professional Services Contract - Historic Architect; Declare 1989 Pierce Pumper Surplus Property; Declare Ford Crown Victoria Surplus Property; Authorize Execution of Lease Extension - Cell Tower at Water Pollution Control Facility; Dedication of Bench - Dunham Trail; Establish Special Projects Task Force; Award Contract - Parking Kiosk; Directing Planning Board to Conduct a Study for the Redevelopment of the Hudson Street Parking Lot; and Award Contract - Phase I Schedler Improvements.

  1. MANAGER’S REPORT

Senior Transportation - Ms. Mailander stated that Age Friendly Ridgewood has been sponsoring bus transportation for senior citizens twice-a-month during the months of June, July, and August to Kasschau Memorial Shell to attend the musical programs held there. “Andy Cooney and His Band” performed Irish music on Tuesday, August 1, 2017, and “Mack Brandon and the Connection” will perform Popular Gospel music on Thursday, August 3, 2017, which will be the last show of the season.

New Senior Bus Route - Ms. Mailander explained that on Wednesdays, beginning on September 6, 2017, the new senior bus route will provide a round trip to the Ramsey Interstate Mall, where there is a wide variety of different stores. The trip will start between 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. and end between 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. Many thanks to Age Friendly Ridgewood and Beth Abbott, who is running the group’s financial support and the initial phase of this service. The route will run through the end of 2017. Reservations will be accepted at the Village Manager’s Office at Extension 203. Ten is the maximum number of reservations per day.

Chamber of Commerce - Ms. Mailander reported that the Chamber of Commerce’s “Summer Sidewalk Sale Days” begin on August 3, 2017 and continue through August 5, 2017. Ms. Mailander invited everyone to come and enjoy the wonderful summer bargains.

“Summertime Restaurant Week 2017” begins on August 13, 2017 and runs through August 17, 2017 and again from August 20, 2017 to August 24, 2017. For these ten days, participating restaurants will offer patrons the chance of experiencing dining in Ridgewood like never before. Each business will prepare a three-course, prefixed meal at a cost of $30.12, not including tax, tip and beverage. Participating restaurants include: Blu Sushi; Steak Latour; Leon; Lisa’s; Park West Tavern and Loft; ROOTS Steakhouse; Smoked to Go; Steel Wheel Tavern; Chestnut Catering; and Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt - Party Box. Ms. Mailander urged everyone to check the Chamber of Commerce website and the Village website for additional information, including serving times.

Movies on the Beach at Graydon Pool - Ms. Mailander stated that the movie, “Happy Feet” will be shown on Friday, August 11, 2017 at sundown at Graydon Pool. Admission is $5.00 per person, cash only, please.

Ridgewood Guild - Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that the Ridgewood Guild is holding their “Music in the Night” and “Art in the Park” programs, which will be held every Friday night through September 1, 2017.   All proceeds benefit the Ridgewood Guild.

Ridgewood Guild - Movies in the Park - Ms. Mailander announced that the Ridgewood Guild will be showing movies on Wednesday evenings in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square. The next movie, “Moonstruck”, will be on Wednesday, August 9, 2017. The movie is free. Please bring a chair.

Ms. Mailander pointed out that Janet Fricke, Assistant to the Village Manager, will be meeting with residents of Ridgecrest to make them aware of Senior Bus Wednesdays. This service is open to any senior citizen of Ridgewood and reservations are required.

  1. COUNCIL REPORTS

Planning Board - Councilman Voigt reported that the Planning Board held on meeting on

July 18, 2017 and reviewed the Enclave Development, located at the corner of Maple Avenue and East Ridgewood Avenue. The applicant proposes to build 47 units; 8 of which will be for special needs housing. Several variances are being considered for this development including: a shortage of required parking spaces by approximately 9 spaces; a building height of 55 feet, when 50 feet is permitted; 8.6 foot high retaining walls around the perimeter of the building itself, when a maximum of 4 feet is permitted; and a 1.14 foot retaining wall setback to the adjoining property, when 8.6 feet is required. Issues concerning ingress and egress were discussed; in particular the ingress/egress on very busy Franklin Avenue. The next meetings for the Enclave are August 15, 2017 and September 19, 2017.

At the meeting on July 18, 2017, the Planning Board also discussed the Master Plan, which has not been updated since 1983. The Master Plan is deficient in a number of different areas. The Planning Board will be working with the Village Planner, Brigette Bogart, to review areas of focus, including historic preservation, circulation and transportation, open space needs, economic development, educational facilities, sustainability of resources, utilities, community facilities and recycling.    

Councilman Voigt reported on the Planning Board meeting held on August 1, 2017. Discussions focused on the minor subdivision of a rather large lot on Mountain Avenue into two, similarly sized sublots, and the building of two houses. Issues revolve around the need for several variances, as well as historic preservation issues. This application was carried until the September 5, 2017 Planning Board meeting.

Library Board of Trustees - Councilman Voigt reported that the Library Board of Trustees met on July 25, 2017. Discussions included preparing a survey addressing the future needs of the residents of the Village, and what the library should look like over the next ten to fifteen years. The Library Board of Trustees intends to get this survey out to the community within the next couple of months. Councilman Voigt noted that, over the last few years, the Ridgewood Library’s functions have become more “in tune” with advanced learning, interaction, and creative development. The Ridgewood Library is becoming more like a multi-cultural center.

Schedler Ad Hoc Committee - Councilman Sedon reported that the Schedler Ad Hoc Committee had its first meeting on July 25, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. at Lester Stable. Councilman Sedon co-chairs this committee with Councilman Hache. The Schedler Ad Hoc Committee is made up of a good mix of residents, stakeholders, and employees. This first meeting was basically a time to meet and to get to know each other. In order to avoid the duplication of information already available, the Schedler Ad Hoc Committee will be collecting and reviewing relative information to decide what needs updating and then planning the park. The next meeting will be held on August 3, 2017 at 5:30 p.m. at the site.

Shade Tree Commission - Councilman Sedon reported that the next Shade Tree Commission meeting will be held on Tuesday, August 8, 2017, at 7:30 p.m. in the Garden Room.

Ridgewood Arts Council - Councilwoman Walsh reported on the “Artist’s Series” held on

July 29, 2017, featuring graphic artist Ashley Zielinski, who conducted a 3D Printing Workshop. Ms. Zielinski showed participants how to use the 3D computer program and gave examples of its practical uses. Ridgewood is honored that Ms. Zielinski was featured in the New York Times the very next day. The next “Artist’s Series” will be held on August 17, 2017, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Lester Stable. This program is entitled, “Art of the Editorial Illustration”, and features resident Drew Martin and Michael Thompson.

Central Business District Advisory Committee (CBDAC) - Councilman Hache reported that the CBDAC met with the developer of the Central Business District website, downtownridgewood.com. The website is progressing well. Development costs are being kept down by doing most of the work in-house or with the assistance of the business owners. Councilman Hache continues to personally visit businesses to obtain e-mail addresses and input from the business owners. The next meeting of the CBDAC will be on Thursday, August 10, 2017. Discussions include working on the art work for the website and defining the layout of business categories. The CBDAC hopes to launch the website in early fall.

Community Access Network - Mayor Knudsen reported that the Community Access Network met on July 20, 2017. Mayor Knudsen noted that two days before the meeting, the Community Access Network had the opportunity to begin reviewing the Enclave development at the Planning Board level. The special needs housing provided at the Enclave development provides a very good solution and opportunities for special needs families in Ridgewood.

Stigma Free Campaign Committee - Mayor Knudsen reported that Health Supervisor, Dawn Cetrulo, suggested developing this campaign approximately one year ago. During the process of organizing this committee, it became apparent that there was a great deal of overlap on different committees, making it increasingly difficult to find volunteers. Mayor Knudsen asked the members of the Community Access Network if they would be willing to work on the Stigma Free Campaign Committee as a sub-committee, and they willingly embraced this request. The first meeting included Ines Bunza, Dawn Cetrulo, Village Manager, Heather Mailander, and Rosemarie Klie.

Master Plan - Mayor Knudsen explained that at the Planning Board Re-Organization Meeting, a group was appointed to the Master Plan Sub-Committee. Members included Mayor Knudsen, and Planning Board members Melanie McWilliams, Joel Torielli, and Richard Joel. The first meeting of the Master Plan Sub-Committee was held on August 1, 2017 at 6:30 p.m. Preliminary goals and objectives were discussed, and a mission statement was prepared stating that the Master Plan Sub-Committee intends to assist the Planning Board, the Village Council, and the public with the Master Plan process, including, but not limited to, the education component so that everyone understands the process including scheduling, milestones, budgeting, and public engagement and participation. The Master Plan Sub-Committee intends to prepare a Power Point Presentation for the Village Planner, Brigette Bogart, who will help them decide how to proceed. The Master Plan Sub-Committee will then present the tutorial to the Planning Board, and post it on the Village website. Mayor Knudsen thanked Chestnut Deli, who provided great wrap sandwiches for the meetings.

Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) - Mayor Knudsen stated that the next HPC meeting will be held on August 10, 2017 at 8:00 p.m. in the Garden Room. Discussions will include the minor subdivision on Mountain Avenue, since this application is subject to HPC review because the property has a historic designation and the applicant is requesting variance relief.  

Mayor Knudsen noted that Ridgewood Running Company is now called Jack Rabbit. Jack Rabbit will have their grand opening on August 2, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. Mayor Knudsen wished Jack Rabbit the best of luck.

Ms. Mailander explained that before this evening’s Village Council Work Session, a sub-committee met regarding the Ridgewood Water lawsuit decision that came down on July 20, 2017. The Village must hire a rate-setting expert within 120 days. Ms. Mailander, Village Chief Financial Officer, Robert Rooney, Village Attorney, Matthew Rogers, and two Councilmembers met with a rate-setting expert. There will be a resolution presented at the August 9, 2017 Village Council Public Hearing to hire an expert. Mr. Rogers stated that he will send a copy of the Court’s decision electronically to any Village Councilmember who requests it.

  1. PUBLIC COMMENTS

Joseph Carey, 913 Norgate Drive, identified himself as the President of the Columbian Club with the Knights of Columbus. There are about 90 events held at the Knights of Columbus Hall, and many are held on Saturdays. When the events are held in the afternoon, they run for four hours. Attendees park in the lot on Hudson Street, where parking is permitted for only three hours, with no repeat parking. Attendees using the ParkMobile app, purchase four hours of parking; however, many have received parking tickets. Mr. Carey asked the Village Council to consider expanding the permitted hours from three to four on Saturdays. He did not feel that bagged meters would be a solution to this problem, as the $10 cost is for the entire day.

Robert Butler, 323 Jeffer Street, identified himself as a member of the Knights of Columbus. He stated that he was very willing to work with the Village Manager’s Office to share any information that is needed for the Village Council to make a decision regarding their request for extended parking in the Hudson Street lot. He pointed out that the Knights of Columbus is not a business. The Knights of Columbus is a Catholic men’s charity. Church parking is not an option, as the church is very busy. Mr. Butler noted that the parking issues have only occurred recently, pointing out that the Knights of Columbus has been holding events at the hall for close to 75 years, without a parking issue. Social media postings, indicating that attending an event at the Knights of Columbus Hall will result in getting a traffic ticket, are hurting the charity. One hundred percent of the funds raised goes toward maintaining the building and then to countless charities.

Cynthia Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, read a portion of a letter from the NJDEP Natural and Historic Resources, Historic Preservation Office (HPO), dated July 20, 2017. This letter indicated that the HPO staff had determined that the application that the Village submitted on June 20, 2017, regarding the train station plaza, was not yet technically or professionally complete and sufficient. At this time, the HPO is unable to provide a definite evaluation of the proposed project to determine if it will constitute an encroachment on the historic railroad station. The HPO letter listed the documentation needed to make the application complete. Ms. Halaby questioned why the Village Council authorized a survey before waiting for an answer from the NJDEP.

Mayor Knudsen pointed out that the Village Council did not have a copy of this letter. Ms. Halaby explained that the original letter was sent to Village Engineer Christopher Rutishauser, with copies to the Ridgewood Historic Society, the Village of Ridgewood Historic Preservation Commission, New Jersey Transit, and Ms. Halaby. Ms. Halaby received a copy because, as a member of the public, she had sent a letter to the HPO, advising them of inconsistencies in the Village’s application to the NJDEP.

In response to Ms. Halaby’s questioned on why the Village Council authorized a survey before waiting for an answer from the NJDEP, Mayor Knudsen felt a survey is needed.

Jacqueline Hone, 30 Carriage Lane, felt that Phase I of the Schedler site clean-up bid was flawed and rushed to make room for a field. Phase I included removal of trees, and Ms. Hone felt that a plan must be in place detailing how the community will be secured once these trees, which currently provide a buffer and barrier for the residents, are removed. Ms. Hone agreed with a recommendation, made by Councilman Hache, to get a full list of all the trees that are going to be removed. Ms. Hone also objected to trees being removed before a use for the site is determined. If a nature walk is planned, downed trees would be a part of that nature walk. Downed trees also serve a purpose for threatened and endangered species that inhabit the parcel. Ms. Hone agreed to the removal of the shed and the garage, but not the premature removal of down or dead trees. She noted that prior to this, over 250 trees were removed at the north end of this same neighborhood, significantly impacting the buffer. Ms. Hone asked for an expert determination on the impact of removing trees before any trees are removed. Ms. Hone asked if surrounding residents would be notified on the number of trees being removed, when the work will begin, and how long the work will last. She also asked for confirmation that the trees being removed pose a hazard, not that they are just laying on their side.

Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated his support of Councilwoman Walsh’s comment to compel the current parking owner of the Town Garage to clean-up the site. Mr. Loving felt summonses should be issued. Mr. Loving referred to a photograph posted on social media showing a collapsed retaining wall, that may be on the Town Garage property.

Mr. Loving asked why the proposed parking kiosk trial was being placed in the Chestnut Street lot, since it does not have parking meters, and people are already using an alternative payment method. He suggested placing the kiosk in a lot that would serve its intended purpose, such as the Walnut Street lot.

  1. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION

Deputy Village Clerk, Donna Jackson read Resolution #17-225 to go into Closed Session as follows:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Sedon, seconded by Councilman Voigt, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Work Session was adjourned at 10:01 p.m.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    _____________________________

                                                                                                                 Susan Knudsen      

                                                                                                                        Mayor

___________________________

            Donna M. Jackson

          Deputy Village Clerk

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20170705 Village Council Work Session

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, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY ON JULY 5, 2017 AT 7:30 PM

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

Mayor Knudsen 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 Sedon, Voigt, and Mayor Knudsen. Councilman Hache and Councilwoman Walsh were absent. Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney; and Donna M. Jackson, Deputy Clerk.  

Mayor Knudsen led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and held a Moment of Silence for all the men and women serving our nation, all first responders, and NYPD Detective Miosotis Familia, who was recently killed in the line of duty.

  1. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

Mayor Knudsen asked if there were any comments or questions from the public.

Bill McCandless, 71 Ridge Road, stated that he was very pleased with the level of detail that was contained in the Garber Square Traffic Study presented by Patrolman Ray Tarino at the June 28, 2017 Village Council meeting. He was surprised by the volume and duration of traffic observed by Patrolman Tarino. He thanked the Village Council and Village Engineer for their handling of the Garber Square traffic congestion, and he urged the Village Council to take action to improve this quality-of-life issue.

Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, urged the Village Council to require a minimum font size for any PowerPoint presentations shown at Village Council meetings, so that everyone in the audience can see them clearly. Mr. Loving also suggested using technology to deliver these presentations to the smart phones or tablets of people in the audience.

Hope Fallin, 275 North Murray Avenue, expressed safety concerns with the North Murray/West Ridgewood Avenue intersection. Ms. Fallin presented the Village Council with photographs of her car after an accident in May, 2017 at this intersection. Ms. Fallin’s car was pushed into the crosswalk, because vehicles lined up for Ridge School were standing all the way up to the fire hydrant. This is against NJ State Law, which requires that standing or parked vehicles be at least 10 feet away from a fire hydrant and 25 feet away from a crosswalk. These vehicles were also standing very close to the intersection, effecting sight distance.

Ms. Fallin stated that she met with Village Manager, Heather Mailander and Police Sergeant John Chuck, and discussed “do not block the box” restrictions. Ms. Fallin also suggested the painting of a yellow line, three feet off of the curb, which is in place at other schools. Ms. Fallin urged the Village Council to look for a solution to this safety issue. Mayor Knudsen pointed out that this issue is on tonight’s agenda for discussion.

Jane Remis, 118 Madison Place, presented the Village Council with photographs of the North Murray/West Ridgewood Avenue intersection.

Ann Marie Agnello, 31 Clinton Avenue, stated that for over 50 years, Clinton Avenue has been closed during school hours without any incidents. Ms. Agnello asked for clarity from the Village Council, prior to the vote on July 12, 2017, as to what the ordinance actually states. Ms. Agnello stated that Clinton Avenue residents are requesting that the ordinance reflect the following:

  • Clinton Avenue will be closed to through traffic during the times students are walking to and from school
  • There will be no restrictions to the residents using Clinton Avenue at any time, even during closure for students
  • Those doing business on Clinton Avenue will continue to be allowed access and to park on the street without restrictions, which includes visitors (family, friends, workers, delivery services, Access Link for the disabled, public workers, etc.)
  • Clinton Avenue is not a narrow street and residents should not be restricted to one-side-of-the-street parking

Ms. Agnello noted that residents of Clinton Avenue have proactively met with the majority of the Village Council regarding Ridge School, and have proven to be a rational, thoughtful and knowledgeable group of residents. The residents of Clinton Avenue look forward to the Village Council clarifying the proposed ordinances and providing this information before the July 12th meeting.

There being no further comments, Mayor Knudsen closed the public portion of the meeting.

Mayor Knudsen stated that she will look into increasing the font size for PowerPoint presentations. Ms. Mailander stated that she will make sure the traffic study is put on the Village website.

Mayor Knudsen stated that the ordinance for Clinton Avenue only states the hours and days of closure. It makes no mention about who may or may not come and go.

  1. Discussion
  1. Ridgewood Water

  1. Award of Contract - Lafayette Reservoir Improvements

Ms. Mailander explained that H2M Associates, Inc., is the engineer of record for this project. H2M Associates, Inc. have prepared construction documents, reviewed all bids, and will assist Ridgewood Water with administering this construction project. Two bids were received. The lowest, qualified bidder was G. Meyer Group, located in Bradley Beach, NJ, with a total amount of $354,175.00. Funding is available in the Water Capital Budget.

  1. Award of Professional Services Contract - Cedar Hill Reservoir                                                 Improvements

Ms. Mailander explained that three proposals were received; one of which presented an updated proposal, which included a $5,000 allowance for potential survey work required at the site. The lowest proposal for the design and construction administration of the improvements at the Cedar Hill Reservoir and site located in Wyckoff, NJ was D.J. Egarian at a cost of $40,000. Funding for the project is in the Water Capital Budget.

  1.          Acquisition of Property

Ms. Mailander explained that there will be a Water Capital Ordinance in the amount of $1,600,000, to provide for the acquisition of the Elks Club property, as well as a resolution to amend the 2017 Water Capital Budget to include this project.

  1. Parking          
  2. Train Station Parking

Mayor Knudsen explained that the Village’s Traffic Consultant will present several different plans for review and discussion at the Village Council Work Session scheduled for August 2, 2017.

  1. Municipal Complex Parking Lot

Ms. Mailander explained that she met with employees of the Village Library, the Village’s Traffic Consultant, and the Village Engineer, to discuss possibilities for parking in the municipal complex, which fills almost to capacity many times during the day. It was suggested that six parking spaces, located adjacent to the playground, be designated for playground use only, since children frequent this area. All the spaces in the municipal complex parking lot will be reserved for patrons, staff and visitors to Village Hall, the Library, Kasschau Shell, and the playground, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Sports groups will be asked to park at Graydon South, on the other side of Veterans Field, or, during non-summer months, in the Graydon Pool parking lot. A suggestion was also made to make the parking spaces in front of Village Hall on Maple Avenue, two-hour parking spaces between the hours of 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. all days, except Sundays and holidays. Another suggestion was to reserve some of the parking spaces in front of the Library and in the middle section of the lot for short-term parking (one hour or less).

Mayor Knudsen suggested prohibiting sports groups from parking in the municipal complex parking lot at all times, not just between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Ms. Mailander explained that, currently, the GPS location for the Graydon South Parking Lot is given to all the coaches and visiting teams. There are times, however, when sports groups still park in the municipal complex parking lot. A sign will be posted on the top of the Village Hall driveway directing sports groups to Graydon South, and another sign will be posted at Graydon South.

Councilman Sedon stated that the municipal lot is busy in the evening, as well, with all the activities occurring at Village Hall and the Library.

It was the consensus of the Village Council to continue to discuss this issue at the August 2, 2017 Village Council Work Session. Ms. Mailander will get input from the Library staff, as well.

  1. Budget
  2. Authorize Release of Cash Bond

Ms. Mailander explained that the Village has received a request from Daniel Buck, Gregor Industries, of Huntington, NY, for the release of the $20,247.33 cash bond being held by the Village to ensure site improvements required by the Zoning Board of Adjustment for the new Capital One Bank facility at 10 Godwin Avenue. According to the Village Engineer, the required site improvements have been satisfactorily completed and the funds can be released.

A resolution will be prepared for the release of this cash bond.

  1. Acceptance of Donation - Board of Education - Stigma Free Initiative

Ms. Mailander explained that the Ridgewood Board of Education has donated a check in the amount of $322 towards the “Stigma Free Initiative” from proceeds obtained through a Wellness Concert at George Washington Middle School. Kevin Feeley, the Crisis Intervention Counselor for the Board of Education, has been working with the Ridgewood Health Department on various initiatives for the “Stigma Free Initiative” including hosting a Mental Health First Aid Class for students, and assisting with promoting this important initiative.

A resolution will be prepared accepting this donation.

Mayor Knudsen asked for a note of thanks to be sent to Mr. Feeley. Mayor Knudsen also thanked Dawn Cetrulo, Supervisor of the Health Department, for her work on this initiative.

  1. Blue and White Collar Salary Ordinances

  1. Amendments to Salary Ordinances

Ms. Mailander explained that the Village has settled with the Blue and White Collar Unions. The unions have been without a contract since January 1, 2016. A four-year agreement, from January, 2016 through December, 2019 has been reached. Ms. Mailander described some of the highlights, as follows:

  • Employees will receive straight time when working over 35 hours, but under 40 hours per week (previously, employees earned time-and-a-half when working over 35 hours per week). Any hours worked over 40 hours per week will be paid at time-and-a-half.
  • The compensatory time option for overtime has been discontinued to ensure proper staffing levels at all times.
  • Vacations have been capped at 25 days for all new hires (it is currently 30 days for existing hires). Any employees that have been with the Village over 30 years and are above 30 days, will stay where they are at and will not continue to accrue time.
  • A one-week notification for any vacation time is required.
  • Two new dental options were added. The Village will pay $25 per month and the employee will pay the differential. The employee will have the choice of four different plans.
  • New employees hired after July 1st will receive half of their accumulated sick leave with a cap at $15,000
  • A sick leave buy-back program has been implemented. As an option, employees may buy back half of their unused allowance for that year, up to seven days. Employees will receive this pay within the first 45 days of the following year.
  • The percentages agreed upon are:
    • 2016: Anyone hired before November 1, 2013 will receive a 1.5% lump sum payment, which will adjust all salary scales as of December 31st.
    • 2017: 1.5%
    • 2018: 1.75%
    • 2019: 2%
    • 2016: Anyone hired after November 1, 2013 will be subject to an eleven-step scale and will receive a 1% lump sum payment, which will adjust all salary scales as of December 31st.
    • 2017: 1%
    • 2018: 1.5%
    • 2019: 2%
  • Step increases will be given either on January 1st or July 1st instead of on the anniversary date of hire.
  • Longevity has been eliminated for all new hires, as of July 1, 2017.
  • A time keeping requirement will be implemented.
  • A Blue Collar Yard Waste worker’s day will be done when their route is done. Yard Waste pick-up runs from the third Monday in June to the second Friday in October.
  • The Blue Collar second shift differential is $1.50 per hour and the Blue Collar third shift differential is $1.55 per hour
  • Tool allowance has been increased to a flat right of $550 per year
  • All Blue Collar employees will be issued an ID badge

Ms. Mailander thanked the union representatives for agreeing to these affordable and realistic settlements.

Mayor Knudsen thanked Ms. Mailander for all the time and effort she put into reaching these settlements.

Ms. Mailander thanked the team who worked with her: Robert Rooney, C.F.O.; Christopher Rutishauser, Village Engineer; Stephen Sanzari, Treasurer; and Richard Calbi, Director of Operations.

Ms. Mailander stated that there were titles added to the Salary Ordinance. Also, calculation errors were found, which resulted in an adjustment being made to a title within the Health Department.

  1. Policy

                       

  1. Report on Ridge School Traffic Solutions

Ms. Mailander stated that she met with Village Engineer, Christopher Rutishauser, Ridgewood Police Sergeant, John Chuck, Daniel Fishbein, Superintendent of Schools, and Jean Schoenlank, Principal of Ridge School, to discuss the traffic conditions in the Ridge School area. The goal is to get more of the vehicles off of the street and onto school property at pick-up time in a timelier fashion.

Ms. Mailander and Mr. Rutishauser felt that “don’t block the box” signage between Murray Avenue and West Ridgewood Avenue, as suggested by resident Hope Fallin, was a great idea and an ordinance will be prepared to this effect. In addition, the Village will enact Title 39, of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Statutes, on all school properties. This will allow the Police Department to issue tickets to drivers who are parking improperly. This idea was welcomed by Dr. Fishbein.

Dr. Fishbein and Ms. Schoenlank were also in agreement with having single-queue traffic going into the parking lot, and bollards being set-up to create a split. Vehicles picking-up students in kindergarten through third grade will be directed to the right, lining up by the red zone along the sidewalk area. Vehicles picking-up students in fourth and fifth grade will line up in the staff parking lot. Vehicles picking-up students from both these groups will line up in the red zone, along the sidewalk area. There is a crosswalk in this area, and it is recommended that an additional crossing guard be hired. It was also recommended that vehicles be permitted to enter the red zone at 2:55 p.m., instead of 3:00 p.m. Ms. Mailander noted that this procedure is only recommended for pick-up time, because parents arrive at various times when dropping-off their children, and the queue is not as much of an issue.

Mr. Rutishauser explained that the recommendations will result in more vehicles being off the street and on school property. The presence of a crossing guard will help direct the children, as well as serve as an authority figure, to encourage compliance.

Councilman Voigt questioned whether the “do not block the box” will be delineated using yellow striping on the roads. Mr. Rutishauser stated that he will discuss this with the Police Department. The ordinance does define the limit of a “do not block the box”. Mr. Rutishauser felt the first step would be to identify it by signage only, as West Ridgewood Avenue is quite wide. Ms. Mailander added that Ms. Schoenlank will educate the parents on the procedure at the beginning of the school year.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Rutishauser stated that there will be approximately 10 feet of extra “safe area” on either curb, because the crosswalk and the sidewalks block vehicles from obstructing this area. This area will be first defined by signage, public education, and enforcement.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Rutishauser stated that the queue on West Ridgewood Avenue, going northeast from North Murray Avenue, should be reduced by the proposed recommendations. Mr. Rutishauser noted that solving the traffic issues at Ridge School will be an evolving process. If these recommendations do not solve the problems, other suggestions will be considered.

Councilman Sedon thanked everyone involved in the resolution of this long standing traffic issue.

Under questioning by Councilman Sedon, Mr. Rutishauser explained that bollards and directional signage will be placed on the Ridge School property to delineate the lanes proposed. Vehicles queued-up in the staff parking lot should not interfere with staff leaving for the day, as this does not occur until student dismissal is over. If a problem occurs, adjustments will be made.

Councilman Sedon liked the recommendations. He especially thanked Dr. Fishbein and Ms. Schoenlank for their efforts.

Mr. Rutishauser pointed out that there will be additional costs to the Village, including an additional crossing guard and signage.

At Mayor Knudsen’s request, Mr. Rutishauser described how the “don’t block the box” area will be delineated from the easterly right-of-way limit line to the westerly right-of-way limit line of North Murray Street and South Murray Street, using a displayed photograph. Mayor Knudsen expressed a concern that this will not solve the traffic issues. At Mayor Knudsen’s request, Mr. Rutishauser stated that he will prepare a sketch of this area for the Village Council’s additional review.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Ms. Mailander stated that the crossing guard will cost the Village approximately $4,500. However, since this cost is based on both drop-off and pick-up times, this cost may be reduced, since the crossing guard is only needed for pick-up times at this location. Ms. Mailander will get this information for the Village Council.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Rutishauser stated that if the provisions of Title 39 are not made applicable to Board of Education properties, there may be problems with enforcement. Village Attorney, Matthew Rogers explained that this action will clear the way for enforcement. Mr. Rogers noted that the school parking lot is a public parking lot, so it does not need the same enforcement requirements applicable to a private parking lot. Mr. Rutishauser added that the ordinance will make the public aware that there will be a change in the enforcement process related to this lot.

This issue will continue to be discussed at the August 2, 2017 Village Council Work Session.

  1.          Enrollment of Unlawful Students in Ridgewood Schools

Mr. Rogers explained that one little aspect of information is pending from the Administrator Office of the Courts, through the Central Municipal Court. There has been a number of municipalities that have adopted ordinances similar to Ridgewood, and there has been some feedback from the State with regard to aspects of preempting and just how far the ordinances can go.

  1. Fee for Use of Parks

Ms. Mailander explained that the Parks and Recreation Department has received many requests for the use of Village parks from for-profit agencies, and the Village is looking into establishing fees for these types of groups to use a park. In the future, fees may also be assessed for police protection, insurance, and garbage and recycling pick-up. The Village is currently in the process of surveying other municipalities that charge similar fees.

This issue will be discussed further at the August 2, 2017 Village Council Work Session.

  1.          Options for Glenwood Road Railroad Crossing

Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that the time for comments from the public on the Glenwood Road Railroad Crossing to the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT), expires on Friday, July 7, 2017. The contact person at the NJDOT is Barbara Foran. All the information related to this request for comments can be found on the Village website. Ms. Mailander noted that many residents have already submitted their comments.

Councilman Voigt expressed concerns that the NJDOT will make a decision without knowing potential issues such as, a negative impact on the traffic flow on surrounding streets, or the concerns of the Borough of Ho-Ho-Kus.   Ms. Mailander stated that a time frame has not yet been determined for a final decision; however, she will try to find out more information. Ms. Mailander noted that the input requested by the NJDOT may impact their decision.

Mayor Knudsen thanked all the residents who submitted comments to the NJDOT. The residents provided a wealth of information and important input.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Rutishauser explained that he spoke with Barbara Foran of the NJDOT and requested incident reports. In the meantime, Ms. Foran gave Mr. Rutishauser the following statistics from the Federal Railroad Administration Data Base:

  • the last fatal accident at the Glenwood Road Railroad Crossing was in 1985, involving an 18-year-old resident
  • the most recent incident where a vehicle was struck by a train was in 2014; prior to that, a vehicle was struck by a train in 2007

Mr. Rutishauser explained that the incident reports may be a bit confusing. A conductor may have observed a vehicle making an illegal, “k” turn on the railroad tracks, but failed to submit a formal report. Ms. Foran will check to see what documentation is available to substantiate these types of observations.

Mayor Knudsen spoke of the importance of receiving the reports from the statistics cited above from the Borough of Ho-Ho-Kus, where the accidents occurred.

Ms. Mailander pointed out that any comments from the Village Council also need to be submitted by July 7, 2017. She suggested that this response be in the form of an e-mail from Mayor Knudsen on behalf of the Village Council. The Village Councilmembers present made the following comments:

Councilman Voigt - Glenwood Road should remain open as a two-way traffic street.

Councilman Sedon - Glenwood Road should remain open as a two-way traffic street in the beginning, with the less invasive approach of the installation of signage.

Mayor Knudsen - Glenwood Road should remain open as a two-way traffic street. Mayor Knudsen also felt that any formal position should include recommendations for additional signage, and working with Ho-Ho-Kus on enforcement, including raising the fees for traffic tickets. Mr. Rogers explained that a municipality cannot regulate violations that may occur on the train tracks; however, if an infraction is observed, Ho-Ho-Kus can issue a summons.

Mr. Rutishauser noted that Ms. Foran suggested that the Village consider installing a single or double yellow center line stripe on Glenwood Hill. The roadway was resurfaced approximately one year ago. This will help keep motorists in their travel lane.

Mr. Rutishauser noted that conversations he had with State Assemblyman David Russo indicated that residents have been in contact with Assemblyman Russo’s office concerning this issue. Assemblyman Russo was pleased that the information on contacting NJDOT was on the Village’s website.

Ms. Mailander will prepare a draft letter and distribute it to all the Village Councilmembers for their review and approval, for submission before the July 7, 2017 deadline.

  1. Operations
  2. Major Soil Permit - Chestnut Village

Ms. Mailander explained that the applicant, 240 Associates, has applied for a major soil moving permit as part of their project at 154-174 Chestnut Street, also known as Chestnut Village. The proposed project has received Planning Board approval. The Village Council is being asked to consider a resolution approving the major soil permit for this location, with the conditions discussed at the Planning Board meeting, which include a performance bond; a truck route to be approved by the Village Engineer and the Police Chief; an escrow of $5,000 for engineering inspection and oversight; work being permitted only between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; the prohibition of trucks in any of the Village’s designated school zones during the start of school or school dismissal; the prohibition of trucks on either Robinson Lane or Douglas Place; all trucks must exit the site by heading south on Chestnut Street to Franklin Avenue; and if traffic control is needed, the contractor must pay the cost of an off-duty Ridgewood Police Traffic Officer.

Councilman Voigt asked if trucks will be turning left or right onto Franklin Avenue from Chestnut Street, as making a left turn would be very difficult for a large truck in the heavy traffic that occurs later in the day. Councilman Voigt felt that the work hours should be from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. to avoid this issue. Mr. Rutishauser noted that most construction sites work either a 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. shift, or an 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. shift. He noted that the Village does not yet know where any material removed from the site is going. The site will also be importing material; however, the applicant has not decided who the supplier is or from what direction they would approach the site. Mr. Rutishauser spoke of the importance of restricting traffic on Robinson Lane and Douglas Place, since these streets are tight, narrow streets. The headquarters of the Ridgewood Emergency Services Department is also located on Douglas Place.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Rutishauser stated that he will calculate the number of truck trips anticipated. These truck trips will happen over the duration of the project, not all at once. Mr. Rutishauser will work with the applicant’s engineer to provide an approximate number.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Rutishauser explained that if truck drivers turn right onto Franklin Avenue, they would encounter two issues: a trestle with an 11-foot height restriction; or being required to make a left turn onto North Broad Street, bringing them through the Central Business District (CBD). If the truck drivers turn left onto Franklin Avenue, possibly with the assistance of a Traffic Control Officer, they can head down Franklin Avenue, make a left turn onto Maple Avenue, and then travel to Route 208.

Ms. Mailander explained that the resolution will set the parameters for when the soil can be moved.

Mayor Knudsen asked that the soil calculations be included in the resolution.

  1. REVIEW OF JULY 12, 2017 REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING AGENDA

Ms. Mailander stated that there will be the swearing in of Police Sergeant Salvatore D’Amico.

The following ordinance for Ridgewood Water is scheduled for introduction: Water Capital Ordinance - Purchase of Elks Club Property.

Resolutions for Ridgewood Water include: Award Contract - Lafayette Reservoir Improvements; Award Professional Services Contract - Cedar Hill Reservoir Improvements; Amend 2017 Water Capital Budget for Purchase of Property; Authorize Lease of Property for Co-Location of Wireless Telecommunications Antennas; and Award Contract - Polyphosphate Pumps for Corrosion Control.

The following ordinances are scheduled for introduction: Unlawful Enrollment of Students in Ridgewood Public Schools; Blue Collar Union Salary Ordinance; White Collar Union Salary Ordinance; Amend Chapter 265 - Vehicles and Traffic - No Stopping on Portion of West Ridgewood Avenue*; Change to Garber Square Bike Lanes; and Enact Title 39 on All Public School Properties.

*Note: A discussion was held on a suggestion made at the previous Village Council meeting to allow parking on Clinton Avenue between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. A decision was made not to change the hours stated in the current ordinance, and only amend it to state when the road will be open.

The scheduled public hearings include: Amend Chapter 265 - Vehicles and Traffic - Establish Stop Signs at Upper Boulevard and Glenwood Road; Amend Chapter 222 - Power Tools, Landscaping, and Yard Maintenance Equipment; Authorize Special Emergency Appropriation - Master Plan Revision; Amend Chapter 265 - Vehicles and Traffic - Hours for Closure of Clinton Avenue to Through Traffic; and Amend Chapter 260 - Trees and Shrubs.

Resolutions include: Authorize Release of Escrow - Capital One Bank; Accept Donation from Ridgewood Board of Education for Stigma Free Initiative; Approve Major Soil Permit - 240 Associates - Chestnut Village; Award Contract - Central Valet Services; Declare Fire Department Property Surplus; Appoint Members to Schedler Park Ad Hoc Committee; Title 59 Approval - Paint Curbs Yellow; Award Contract Under State Contract - Tires; Award Contract Under State Contract for Police Handguns, Holsters and Magazine Pouches; Award Contract Under State Contract for Two Police Patrol SUV’s; Award Contract Under State Contract - Lifts and Support Stands - Fleet Services; Award Contract Under National Joint Powers Alliance - Front End Loaders with Snowplows; Award Contract Under National Joint Powers Alliance - Two Sanitation Chassis and Cabs; Endorse Bergen County Historic Preservation Trust Fund Grant Application - The James Rose Center; and Appoint Clean Communities Coordinator; and Appoint Interim Recycling Program Coordinator.

  1. MANAGER’S REPORT

July 4th Fireworks - Ms. Mailander stated that the July 4th celebration was held yesterday. The theme was, “Honoring Those Who Serve”. The all-volunteer, July 4th Committee was led by Leigh Gilsenan and Tara Masterson, who did an outstanding job coordinating everything, including the parade and the fireworks. The fireworks were amazing and the weather was wonderful, which encouraged a great attendance.

Glenwood Railroad Crossing - Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that the deadline to submit comments about the Glenwood Railroad Crossing is July 7, 2017. Information can be found on the Village website.

Kasschau Memorial Shell - Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that every Tuesday and Thursday evening at 8:30 p.m., there is a performance at the Kasschau Memorial Shell. Bus transportation will be provided, sponsored by Age Friendly Ridgewood, to the Kasschau Memorial Shell for Ridgecrest and SHARE residents on July 18th and July 25th. Chairs will also be provided. Ms. Mailander invited all senior citizens to make reservations by calling the Village Manager’s Office at 201-670-5500, Extension 203. On July 6th, Captain Jack will be performing Billy Joel songs. A complete performance schedule can be found on the Village website.

Graydon Pool - Ms. Mailander reported that Graydon Pool has been very busy this summer. Events included: the Ridgewood Public Schools Fifth Grade End-of-Year Celebration; a Meet-and-Greet Session for the Swim Team on June 3rd and June 17th; free monthly concerts, with the next concert being held on July 9th from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., with a performance of jazz standards by Matt Marano; “Movie on the Beach” with the next one being held on Friday July 14th, showing the movie “Mulan”, with a fee of $5.00 per person, or free to any child wearing their day camp tee shirt.  

Ridgewood Guild - Ms. Mailander announced that the Ridgewood Guild is holding their “Music in the Night” and “Art in the Park” programs, which will be held every Friday night through September 1, 2017.  

Ridgewood Guild - Movies in the Park - Ms. Mailander announced that the Ridgewood Guild will be showing movies on Wednesday evenings in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square. The next movie, “Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory”, will be on July 12th. The movie is free and candy will be provided for the children. Please bring a chair.

  1. COUNCIL REPORTS

Shade Tree Commission - Councilman Sedon reported that the next Shade Tree Commission meeting will be held on Tuesday, July 11, 2017, at 7:30 p.m. in the Garden Room.

Fourth of July - Councilman Sedon said that the day was great.

July 4th Committee - Mayor Knudsen stated that she has been Village Council Liaison for the July 4th Committee since 2014. This year’s theme, “Honoring Those Who Serve”, honored those serving our nation in the military, and as emergency responders, police officers, and fire fighters, including volunteers. The Dad’s Night Band gave a volunteer performance as a fundraiser for Somerville School. The Scout Master of Troop 7 picked the winning 50/50 raffle tickets. Mayor Knudsen spoke about how fortunate the Village is to have so many residents willing to volunteer in many capacities throughout Ridgewood. Yesterday, the July 4th Committee was shining brighter than ever before. The July 4th Event was outstanding. The parade was incredible, the crowds were outstanding, as were the fireworks and the entertainment. The organization of this event, which includes logistics, security, fund raising, and financial considerations. The 50/50 raffle resulted in a grand prize of $9,100. There were 10, second prize winners with a prize of $229 each. Mayor Knudsen thanked Tara Masterson and Leigh Gilsenan for all their hard work, as well as everyone on the July 4th Committee, all the emergency responders, and everyone who helped out at this amazing event.

  1. PUBLIC COMMENTS

Hope Fallin, 275 North Murray, stated that she brought a relative from Norway to the fireworks, and she said it was wonderful to see this event through someone else’s eyes.

Ms. Fallin reminded the Village Council that standing or parked vehicles must be at least be 10 feet away from a fire hydrant and 25 feet away from a crosswalk under NJ State Statute. She agreed with the idea of painting the curbs yellow, noting that it exists at another school.

Under questioning by Ms. Fallin, Mr. Rogers explained that Title 39 applies to every public road. Sometimes, there is an idea that once a vehicle is off the road, Title 39 does not apply. If there is no ordinance in effect dealing with a particular property, the police cannot enforce traffic violations.

Under questioning by Ms. Fallin, Ms. Mailander stated that Police Officers will be posted at Ridge School during pick-up times at the beginning of the school year, and then sporadically throughout the school year. The school will educate parents about the new procedure before school starts. The crossing guard will also create a safer situation for the older students crossing to get picked up.

Ms. Fallin suggested prohibiting left turns onto South Murray Avenue if the recommendations do not work.

Ms. Fallin stated that parking is currently prohibited on the right side of North Murray Avenue going up. However, the sign is completely covered and cannot be seen, and she asked for this to be rectified.

Jane Remis, 118 Madison Place, read from the current ordinance in place for Clinton Avenue, amended on June 12, 2013, as follows: “No person shall operate a vehicle on those streets or parts of streets described unless he is a resident of said street needing (inaudible) access to his home or can demonstrate or document a need to access a resident of the street or parts of streets, as described”. Ms. Remis felt this statement is being used to justify anyone driving on the street.

Ms. Remis presented the Village Council with two photographs. One photograph showed students running and walking in the area when vehicles were parked and moving. The other photograph showed a group of students walking down the middle of the street with no cars; however, shortly after this photograph was taken, a vehicle drove half-way down the closed street, stopped, and the driver’s daughter got out of the vehicle and ran up to the group of students to exchange backpacks. Ms. Remis strongly urged the Village Council to word the ordinance to clearly state that only residents have access to Clinton Avenue during the hours it is closed, and that all on-street parking, including residents, is prohibited when the road is closed. Residents will have from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., as well as after-school hours, to receive deliveries. Ms. Remis felt that the “block the box” and “red zone area” were good ideas.

Susanne Riggio, 64 Glenwood Road, stated her resounding support for better signage prohibiting turning around on the railroad tracks on Glenwood Road. Ms. Riggio also noted that a commuter in a beige SUV has been parking on a regular basis on Glenwood Road, Hillcrest Road, and Upper Boulevard.

Ms. Riggio spoke in support of expanding the Senior Tuesday Program at Graydon Pool for Ridgecrest Seniors.

Jeanne Harris, 625 Hillcrest Road, suggested better signage at the Glenwood Road Railroad Crossing, more enforcement, and higher fines for violations, before a decision is made to change the traffic flow or to close Glenwood Road. Ms. Harris expressed surprise that the need for a traffic study was not discussed, considering the impact this would have on Hillcrest Road, Upper Boulevard, Glenwood Road, and surrounding streets. Hillcrest Road and Upper Boulevard are currently very busy streets in the morning. There are over 1,000 households with children that attend Willard School. Ms. Harris expressed concern that additional traffic on these streets will reduce emergency response time, create safety concerns, and negatively impact air quality in the area.

Ms. Harris stated that, as the Vice President of Ridgecrest, she wished to thanked the Village Council for their support of Senior Tuesdays at Graydon Pool. Ms. Harris invited the Village Councilmembers to visit Ridgecrest.

Brad Matthews, 366 Glenwood Road, supported the need for larger signs and higher fines for violations at the Glenwood Road Railroad Crossing. He liked Mayor Knudsen’s idea of the height restriction sign. Mr. Matthews also felt the sidewalk could be moved over to allow the widening of the roadway.

Mr. Matthews objected to spending $3 million to move Ridgewood Water operations to the municipal campus.

Jane Remis, 118 Madison Place, asked for a stairway from the train platform down by the bear statute, so people do not have to cross Franklin Avenue to go shopping. She felt this would be especially helpful for senior citizens living at Ridgecrest.

Ms. Remis noted that, according to the NJ Safe Routes to School website, children under 10 years old should not be walking to school alone, as they are easily distracted and not mature enough to correctly follow pedestrian safety rules. Ridge School students are under 10 years old. Ms. Remis spoke in favor of sidewalks along Clinton Avenue, noting that a study conducted by the Federal Highway Administration stated that the likelihood of a sidewalk being the site of a pedestrian crash is 88.2% lower than a site without sidewalks, after factoring in traffic volume and speed limits. About 8% of all pedestrian fatalities occur while walking along roadways without sidewalks. Ms. Remis disagreed with the position of 14 out of 16 Clinton Avenue residents, that allowing free flowing traffic along Clinton Avenue would create a safety hazard for pedestrians with or without sidewalks. Ms. Remis pointed out that pedestrians safely walk on sidewalks along Godwin Avenue, which is a busier street. Opening up Clinton Avenue during the day will accommodate service vehicles so that the road will be traffic/parking-free during the closed hours. Ms. Remis agreed with a suggestion made by the Clinton Avenue residents to paint a pedestrian lane on the roadway.

Ann Marie Agnello, 31 Clinton Avenue, stated that she has observed that vehicles either slow down or stop when children are present. She also noted that school events are usually at the beginning or end of the day, not in the middle of the day when the road is open. Ms. Agnello thanked the Village Council for listening to the residents.

Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, asked that the ordinance proposed to prohibit sports parking in the Village Hall/Library parking lot, contain wording that also prohibits school buses for using this lot. He recalled that this issue, as well as the installation of signage indicating this, was discussed at previous Village Council meetings.

Under questioning by Mr. Loving, Ms. Mailander explained that the property acquisition for Ridgewood Water will be funded through the Capital Improvement Fund.

Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, described the July 4th Celebration as fantastic.

Ms. Loving felt the agenda item, “Enrollment of Unlawful Students in Ridgewood Schools” should be changed to read, “Unlawful Enrollment of Students”, as the students are innocent victims of their parents.

Mayor Knudsen understood that the prohibition of school buses in the Village Hall/Library parking lot, including the installation of signage directing everyone to the south lot, was discussed by the Village Council in 2015. GPS directional mapping was adjusted to direct people to the south lot. An ordinance addressing this issue will be put on the agenda for an August, 2017 Village Council meeting.

Mayor Knudsen understood that the Clinton Avenue Parking Ordinance was amended in 2013. As previously mentioned, Mayor Knudsen suggested changing the times and not the parking restrictions now, and then reviewing the 2013 meeting minutes to help gain a perspective as to how this amendment occurred.  

  1. ADJOURNMENT

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

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    _____________________________

                                                                                                                     Susan Knudsen      

                                                                                                                           Mayor

___________________________

            Donna M. Jackson

          Deputy Village Clerk

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20170503 Village Council Work Session

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, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY ON MAY 3, 2017 AT 7:30 PM

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

Mayor Knudsen called the meeting to order at 7:31 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. At roll call, the following were present: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen.  Also present were; Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney; Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; and Donna Jackson, Deputy Village Clerk.  

Mayor Knudsen led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and held a Moment of Silence for all the men and women serving our nation and all first responders.

  1. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

Mayor Knudsen asked if there were any comments or questions from the public.

Art Wrubel, 79 Ridge Road, stated that the train station is on the National Register of Historic Places. The parking lot adjacent to the train station was built around 1914 and opened in 1916. The property where the parking is proposed was created as a park, with trees that focused on the railroad station. The train station and the park were originally designed to work together. Mr. Wrubel urged the Village Council to keep this in mind when designing the proposed parking area.

Tony Damiano, 274 South Broad Street, thanked the Village Council for proceeding with efforts to build a parking garage. Mr. Damiano noted that the limited availability of parking was hurting the Central Business District (CBD) and he felt the addition of a parking garage would help improve foot traffic in the CBD, as well as encourage businesses to remain there.

Mr. Damiano hoped that none of the landscaping is taken away from the train station to create parking. He felt this would hurt the overall look of the CBD. Mr. Damiano stated that he was not in favor of moving the bus terminal over to the train station, especially if the Hudson Street Parking Garage is approved.

Bonnie Chalek, 110 Sheridan Terrace, introduced herself as a member of Mom’s Demand Action, Bergen County Chapter, a gun violence prevention organization. June 2nd is National Gun Violence Awareness Day and last year’s Village Council unanimously voted to pass a resolution honoring this day. Approximately 91 Americans die and 150 people are treated at hospitals as the result of gun violence. Many neighboring municipalities, including Glen Rock, Fair Lawn, Mahwah, Oradell, and Clifton have passed similar resolutions this year. Ms. Chalek urged the Village Council to pass this resolution again this year. Ms. Chalek also urged everyone to wear orange that day. The color orange symbolizes the value of human life. It is the color hunters wear in the woods to protect themselves from others. She also asked for permission to tie orange ribbons outside of Village Hall.

Chris Colabella, 159 Cottage Place, spoke in favor of the passing of a resolution for gun violence awareness. Ms. Colabella noted that domestic violence happens everywhere, and the passing of this resolution will help to make victims aware of their risks from gun violence, it will show them support, and it will encourage public awareness.

Madeline Berris, 158 Hope Street, spoke in support of passing the resolution naming June 2, 2017 as Gun Violence Awareness Day, to encourage public awareness.

Kathryn Schmidt, 123 South Irving Street, urged the Village Council to adopt the resolution that raises awareness about gun violence and gun safety. The American Medical Association has called gun violence a health crisis, noting that approximately 30,000 men, women, and children die each year from guns. Gun fatalities and automobile accident fatalities have been almost equal in number over the past five years. The percentage of firearm deaths in the United States is approximately 10%, as compared to 2% in Canada; 1% in Australia; and less than 1% in the United Kingdom. Ms. Schmidt noted that policies around gun control and the right to bear arms is a divisive issue in the United States; however, she hoped that a focus on gun violence and how to prevent it would be something that could bring the country together.

Rurik Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, spoke in favor of hiring an historian as a consultant for the Schedler Property. He asked if the public will have a say in who is chosen as historian.

Mr. Halaby asked if members of the Financial Advisory Committee (FAC) were allowed to see the 2017 Budget before it was made public, describing them as a high-level group of individuals. Mr. Halaby stated that the did not trust all the Village Councilmembers, referring to them as amateurs. Mayor Knudsen called a point of order and Mr. Halaby left the podium.

Cynthia Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, noted that the greenery at the train station was originally known as the Grand Plaza. In the interest of preservation and conservation, Ms. Halaby felt that the destruction of an historic area is totally wrong. She urged the Village Council to think very carefully about moving forward on the proposed parking.

Jeanne Thiesen, 385 Colonial Road, urged the Village Council to approve the flying of the Gay Pride Flag during the month of June. This action will demonstrate how strongly the Village welcomes diversity in the community and how every member of the community is valued.

Lorraine Reynolds, 550 Wyndemere Avenue, felt the addition of 41 parking spaces at the train station would be invaluable to commuters. The property proposed for these parking spaces is used as a walk-through, not as a park. After the parking is constructed, there will still be a sidewalk and greenery, and additional trees are proposed. Ms. Reynolds urged the Village Council to approve this plan.

Mayor Knudsen stated that a resolution, encouraging the wearing of the color orange to symbolize gun violence awareness, will be on the Village Council agenda.

Mayor Knudsen thanked Mr. Wrubel for his comments and assured him that the Village Council will respect the historic integrity of the train station.

Mayor Knudsen noted that the historian for the Schedler Property is the same architectural historian that did the work on the train station, so every attention to detail will be followed.

Mayor Knudsen stated that, concerning the FAC’s role in the budget process, the Village Council was very mindful and absolutely respectful of the requests and needs of the Village Staff. Recommendations concerning the budget were left to the professionals on-staff. Members of the FAC were welcome to attend the budget hearings.

Mayor Knudsen stated that the Village Council is not going to tolerate any ongoing personal attacks from the public at the podium. It is a violation of the rules of order.

  1. PRESENTATION
  2. Addition of Name to War Memorial

Christopher Stout, 251 Morningside Place, explained that, as a result of his research of military casualties as listed on the War Memorial at Van Neste Square, he is requesting the addition of the name of Pfc. Anthonie J. Wendels to the World War I Memorial Plaque. Pfc. Wendels was born in Rotterdam in 1895. When he enlisted in the American Expeditionary Forces in 1917, he gave his address of record as 209 Ridgewood Avenue, Ridgewood, New Jersey. Pfc. Wendels entered the war in 1918, was wounded twice, gassed once, and killed in action on November 4, 1918, one week before the signing of the armistice. Pfc. Wendels earned the Distinguished Service Cross, as well as France’s Medaille Militaire (Military Medal). To Mr. Stout’s knowledge, Pfc. Wendels has not been memorialized anywhere.

Mr. Stout requested the Village Council’s approval to claim Pfc. Wendels as a citizen of Ridgewood and to place his name on the World War I Plaque at the War Memorial at Van Neste Square during this year’s Memorial Day Ceremony. The plaque, including installation, will cost $1,020.00. If the Village is unable to pay this cost, Mr. Stout felt he could find private funding.  

Mayor Knudsen stated that she distributed a copy of the story of Pfc. Wendels to all the Village Councilmembers. A resolution to add Pfc. Wendel’s name to the World War I War Memorial has been drafted. Mr. Stout also presented a newsletter from the Bergen County Historical Society that gave additional details of Pfc. Wendel’s life.

Mayor Knudsen stated that the Village was thrilled and honored to add Pfc. Wendel’s name to the World War I Memorial Plaque. She thanked Mr. Stout, Joe Suplicki, and Stan and Peggy Norris for all their hard work.

  1. Estate Card - Property Tax Reduction

Ralph Black, the Government Relations Director of Municipal Cards, LLC, explained that his company has developed a new and innovative tax savings program. The program uses a Debit MasterCard that offers a percentage back on purchases paid toward the cardholder’s property taxes. Bonus rewards are earned on local purchases and on-line purchases. These rewards can be as high as 25%. The reward is paid automatically to the Village. The Village benefits by a reduction in the tax burden and the promotion of local spending. The property owner will get much needed tax relief and local businesses will benefit from increased traffic and revenue.   Municipal Cards, LLC will ask the Village to promote the voluntary program by either a mailer or a newsletter to the homeowners. Municipal Cards, LLC will provide the municipality with a website. The homeowner will sign on for the debit card (since it is a debit card, everyone is approved). The homeowner will receive the card in five to seven days and can start using it immediately. Once the homeowner signs on, the relationship will be between the cardholder and the bank. Municipal Cards, LLC will identify the purchases made in Ridgewood, process the reward amount, and a payment will be made to the Village in the form of a mortgage company escrow payment at the time designated by the Village Council. Payments can be made earlier than the due date.

There are three levels of rewards, as follows: a base amount of .25% on every dollar; as much as 10% at participating local merchants; and then up to 25% on purchases made on-line. Currently, there are 3,200 on-line merchants already sign-on. Based on Municipal Cards, LLC scaling, property owners can save up to 25% of their property tax bill. Mr. Black explained that this rate is based upon the average property tax amount across the United States, a blended reward rate, and an average spending level of $9,200.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Black stated that since this is not a credit card, there are no interest charges on the unpaid balance.

Under questioning by Councilman Sedon, Mr. Black explained that the base reward of .25% is paid by Municipal Cards, LLC. Local merchants who choose to participate in the program will choose a reward level, where they will pay between 5% and 10%. On-line merchants will pay in the same manner.   Municipal Cards, LLC underwrites the cost of administering and implementing the program up until August 1, 2017. Municipal Cards, LLC will profit from the amount of the purchase that is taken from the interchange; it is only pennies on the dollar.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Black stated that there is no cap on how much reward money a property owner can earn.   The bank involved is Metabank. Metabank is the biggest, on-line bank in the United States and is headquartered in Iowa. Mr. Black understood that Metabank Financial Services operates out of North Dakota and he will confirm this via e-mail to the Village. There is no minimum balance required; however, it is suggested that the property owner deposit a minimum of $800.00 monthly into this account.  

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Black explained that local merchant participation is voluntary. The merchant will select what percentage of reward they are willing to offer and no contract is required. The merchant can stop and start the reward program at their discretion.

Councilman Hache questioned the program’s effectiveness at generating new business. Mr. Black explained that through the eight years of the research and development of this product and the last 4-5 months that the project has been live, Municipal Cards, LLC projects an increase of at least 15% to 20% in revenue for local businesses, as well as an increase in foot traffic. One-time promotions may also cost the business money, but only for that particular period of time. If the customer is given the incentive to come back to earn rewards, they may shop more often.

Councilman Hache noted that the average property tax bill in the United States is $2,100, as compared to the average property tax bill in Ridgewood of $16,000. Mr. Black pointed out that, based on figures released this week, the average tax bill in the United States is $2,600. Mr. Black explained that, since it is assumed that homeowners paying higher property taxes have higher spendable income, the potential to save 25% on property taxes still holds true.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Black stated that currently Municipal Cards, LLC is in contract negotiations with seven other municipalities. Mr. Black agreed to supply the Village Manager with the names of these towns, off the record. However, he did indicate that the town of Caldwell, New Jersey has shown a favorable view.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Black explained that Municipal Cards, LLC takes a piece of the transaction. Municipal Cards, LLC does not take any of the interest that may or may not be earned on the deposits made by the homeowner. The issue of interest is between the cardholder and the bank.

Mr. Black noted that Municipal Cards, LLC will offer a 9.1% match on rewards earned on-line by Ridgewood residents, as an additional revenue stream for the Village for use wherever they wish, including crediting that money back, on a proportional basis, to the taxpayers. Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Black said he will explain how the 9.1% rate was determined off the record in an e-mail to the Village Manager.

Village Manager, Heather Mailander stated that the great things about this program is that it is voluntary for both merchants and residents; merchants can offer rewards at their discretion since there is no contract; residents are given the opportunity of reducing their taxes by spending as they usually do; and foot traffic in the CBD will increase.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Black stated that he will provide additional information on branding the card and website with a map of Ridgewood or the Ridgewood logo.

Under questioning by Councilman Sedon, Councilman Hache stated that this rewards program was discussed with the Ridgewood Guild and the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce, who requested a presentation.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Black stated there is no minimum on the number of merchants participating in this program. It is anticipated that there will be more than one. Municipal Cards, LLC will work with the Village Council to promote the program and educate the public.

Under questioning by Ms. Mailander, Mr. Black explained that Municipal Cards, LLC has the capacity of altering the geographic boundaries of the program, if surrounding municipalities decide to adopt the same program.

Ms. Mailander explained that Municipal Cards, LLC is the sole source provider of this type of service, so a Request for Proposal (RFP) is not required.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Black explained that this card will be accepted wherever MasterCard is accepted. Municipal Cards, LLC defines a merchant as anyone who is open for business and sells commodities or services.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Black explained that the base reward amount of .25% is earned for every transaction. More rewards can be earned if the merchant participates in the program.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Black stated that commercial property owners will also receive rewards toward their taxes if they use the program’s debit card.

Mayor Knudsen stated that the Village Council will discuss this issue again.

  1. PIKE - Parking Garage

Peter Cornell, President, Pike Development Company and Mike Gestwick, Project Manager, Pike Development Company, were present for the discussion and video presentation.  

Mr. Cornell explained that Pike Development is part of the Pike Family of Companies. In existence since 1883, this company has been family owned for five generations. The company’s annual volume is close to $1billion. Pike Development is involved in many construction and development projects along the East Coast. Pike Development’s primary offices are in Rochester, New York; Albany, New York; and Orlando, Florida.

Mr. Cornell pointed out a list of parking garages that Pike Development has recently completed, as well as the current New Jersey projects on the video display.

Mr. Gestwick explained that the team is composed of four Pike Development staff members. Mr. Gestwick introduced two of those team members: Andrew Giordano, Project Executive and an expert in garage construction, in particular pre-manufactured garages; and Joe Volpe, who is primarily responsible for municipal approvals and drone operation.

Mr. Gestwick explained that the approach to the proposed project is to work directly with a pre-cast manufacturer. Starting with modular pieces that manufacturers already make, the plan calls for modifying those pieces to fit the site. The majority of the garage will be manufactured off-site in a factory setting and then assembled on location. This will result in a substantial cost savings versus ground-up construction. Approximately 75% of the garages constructed by Pike Development over the last 15 years have been pre-manufactured. If the shape of the property is unusual, the the cast-in-place construction method is used instead of precast.

Mr. Cornell addressed cost controls, which included a predefined profit on the construction side and a transparent transaction. Pike Development will take a 4% profit on the overall construction, and the entire bid process will be transparent to the municipality, so there are no hidden costs. Once it is determined what the ultimate structure will look like, Pike Development will take all the construction risks. Pike Development will give a guaranteed, maximum price and this number will never change. Mr. Cornell stated that this can be done in two ways: 1.) Pike Development can own the garage and lease it back to the Village; or 2.) Pike Development can build the garage for the municipality to own.

Mr. Gestwick presented aerial views of the site, which included the surrounding properties and the approximate dimensions of the proposed garage. Pike Development is proposing a pre-cast approach to the garage to keep the costs down. The Broad Street side of the garage will have a brick finish (real brick imbedded in the pre-cast). The Hudson Street side of the garage will have a stone finish that matches the church. Mr. Gestwick noted that the sketch presented is preliminary and subject to change.

Mr. Gestwick presented a real-time video of the site, taken by a drone, which included a simulation of the proposed parking garage on the property.

Mr. Gestwick explained that the project could be delivered as a construction project; a short-term lease (less than 10 years); or a long-term lease (full amortization at 25 years, when the building will be turned back over to the Village for $1.00).

Mr. Gestwick noted that, typically, garages are built with double-loaded lanes, which means that vehicles can park to the left or the right of the driveway. Because of width restrictions, the proposed garage will have one, double-loaded lane and one single-loaded lane. This creates some inefficiencies and drives up the cost per space.

Mr. Gestwick stated that the garage will take approximately 8 months to be 100% complete.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Cornell explained that the cost will be less than $8million, for 240 parking spaces.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Cornell explained that once a guaranteed, maximum price is established, as long as the Village doesn’t make any changes during the course of construction, that price will not change.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Gestwick stated that a mock-up of one panel of the facade will be presented, so the Village Council can get a better idea of how it will look. The choice of stone on the Hudson Street side was done to match the facade of the adjacent church; however, the company is open to any suggestions.

Councilman Voigt expressed concern with traffic control and parking during construction; in particular, the impact on the church and area businesses. Mr. Gestwick explained the proposal to place Jersey Barriers in the middle of one-half of Hudson Street to restrict traffic to one-lane during the construction period. The back-side will be kept open to allow delivery access for the businesses. The current parking spaces will be gone during the construction period. Representatives from Pike Developments Operations Department will meet with the Village Council to discuss the logistics.

Mr. Gestwick explained that the massive pieces of concrete will be moved through Village streets in the early evening and then set-up between 2:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m. The developer tries to keep large trucks off the road during high traffic times.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Gestwick explained that the developer used a 9.5’ width for the parking space. If the width was reduced to 8.5’, the opening of car doors could cause damage to adjacent vehicles. The only other way to add additional spaces to the 240 proposed would be to add another floor to the garage.

Under questioning by Councilman Sedon, Mr. Gestwick stated that the proposed garage height is under 40’.

Under questioning by Councilman Sedon, Mr. Cornell stated that he and Mr. Gestwick will be available for community meetings.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Gestwick explained that his company would ask for competitive bids from pre-cast manufacturers that operate within the State of New Jersey. In order to get budget numbers for tonight’s presentation, Pike Development worked with Unistress Corporation. The pre-cast material will have two warranties; the engineer who stamped the plans and the manufacturer of the pre-cast panels, as well as Pike Developments guarantee beyond that.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Gestwick stated that the age expectancy of a pre-manufactured garage depends on the quality of the maintenance. With pressure washing to remove salt on a regular basis and regular, preventative maintenance, concrete can last from 30 to 40 years. Without maintenance, problems will occur within 15 years.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Gestwick stated that once the contract is signed and the guaranteed maximum price is established, the price will not change. Any work the developer does to arrive at the guaranteed maximum price is included in the $8million estimated cost. Any changes requested by the Village after the contract is signed, will have to be financed by the Village.

Councilwoman Walsh asked if there would be an additional charge for providing different designs for the garage. Mr. Gestwick explained that the dimensions should not change because they work for pre-cast. The proposed facade can change, but the cost of the garage will increase, as a result of the change in the cost of materials for a different facade. Councilwoman Walsh felt that for the residents and the surrounding neighbors, aesthetics is critical. Aesthetics and cost will be the Village Council’s biggest concerns.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Cornell stated that he will e-mail a full list of the addresses of other garages the developer constructed in the area. He will also provide the Village Council with a copy of tonight’s Power Point presentation.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Cornell could recall only one issue, in the 150 years Pike Development Company has existed, that resulted in their walking away from a job. This involved rebuilding a courthouse in the City of Albany. The methodology was to rebuild the courthouse from the top down and the architect of record insisted that the plumbing be installed from the bottom up after the construction had already begun, which would have cost twice as much.

Mr. Cornell pointed out that Pike Development Company has no bank loans, no debt, and no litigation.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Gestwick stated that the garage is a tight fit on the lot, and does not encroach on the alley or the easements.

Councilman Hache noted that the least expensive quote the Village had received so far is approximately 31% higher than the $8million dollar cost estimate from Pike Development Company. Councilman Hache asked if the facade could be improved at a cost not to exceed this 31%. Mr. Gestwick estimated that changing the facade would cost an additional $40.00 per square foot of the facade. Using this estimate, Councilman Hache calculated that improving the facades on both sides of the structure would result in an approximately $560,000 or 8% increase in the estimated cost.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Cornell explained that Pike Development Company will provide 100% of the financing. On the short-term, the current rate for 7 years is 3.75% and the lender mandates a debt ratio coverage on top of the debt service. The debt ratio coverage is based on the Village’s credit rating and can run from a 1:10 debt ratio coverage to a 1:25 debt ratio coverage. The Village of Ridgewood has a AAA rating, so the debt ratio should be somewhere between a 1:10 and 1:15 debt ratio coverage. Pike Development Company does not charge more than the lender mandated debt ratio coverage. At the conclusion of the term, it is a guaranteed purchase, not an option for purchase. The by-out is the unamortized debt plus 10%. The other alternative is a 20 or 25-year financing arrangement, at 4.25% as of today’s standard, which is probably more than the Village would pay on a bond offering, but with a private placement with Pike Development Company, there is no subsequent cost. From that perspective it is fully amortized and at the end of the term, the Village takes the garage over for the cost of $1.00.

Councilman Hache questioned how cost estimates could be so different between construction companies. Mr. Cornell explained that approximately 80% of his company’s jobs come from repeat customers. Pike Development Company does have a large volume of clients and this gives them the ability to extend themselves a little more for major clients. Mr. Cornell noted that his company is the largest developer of Walmart facilities in the United States. Mr. Cornell stated that using transparent formulas with renter-mandated requirements eliminates a lot of negotiations and simplifies the process.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Cornell stated that for a client with a AAA credit rating, his company would go directly to an insurance company and would not use a bank. Pike Development Company does business with AIG Insurance.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Cornell explained that Pike Development Company is a construction and financing vehicle; they will not manage the garage unless requested by the Village. With the short-term financing option, the Village will not make any payments until the first lease payment is due, which is after the certificate of occupancy is issued.

Mayor Knudsen thanked Mr. Cornell and Mr. Gestwick for developing a detailed proposal in such a short time. She felt the design fit within the lot, and she was happy that the design included the statue by Paterson sculptor Gaetano Federici that was over the door of the original Village Hall building previously located on this site.   This statue is currently in storage.

Mayor Knudsen pointed out that the corner piece must go up another floor because there must be a way to get to the top. Mr. Gestwick estimated that this would bring it up another 5’ or 6’ because the top of that section is already at the top of the parapet wall. Mayor Knudsen felt that a brick design all the way around the building may be more aesthetically pleasing.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Cornell explained that the $33,000 cost per space falls in the middle as compared to the costs of other projects, which ranged from $15,000 a space to $70,000 a space. In the current market and with a double-loaded parking plan, the price per space would probably be around $26,000 to $28,000 per space.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Gestwick explained that another level would create an additional 60 parking spaces and increase the height of the building by 10 or 11 feet. He will provide the Village Council with an exact number. The cost would not go up, because adding another level will not substantially change the footings or the foundation. Mayor Knudsen pointed out that the size proposed was chosen to make sure that the structure fit on the lot both physically and aesthetically, and did not tower over the streetscape obscuring the view of the neighborhood’s two, beautiful church steeples.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Voigt, Mr. Gestwick stated that there are four levels of parking proposed, including roof-deck parking. The front structure will be extended another approximately 6’ to accommodate the elevator. The building will be within the Village Code height requirements. There will be a stair tower and an elevator in the front structure, and there will be a stair tower in the far corner in the back at the same height, to provide two means of egress.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Cornell explained that cars can enter and exit the garage wherever the Village Council desires; however, the developer must know this before the design is completed. Typically, the developer’s representative will meet with the Village’s traffic expert and discuss what is practical considering the design of the structure and the traffic pattern of the area. Mr. Cornell and Mr. Gestwick observed the traffic in the area today and found that it was very busy. Mr. Cornell suggested placing the entrance away from the intersection. Mayor Knudsen noted that this may also open up more on-street parking.

Mayor Knudsen asked Mr. Cornell to address lighting. Mr. Cornell explained that the parapet walls themselves will have lighting packs on the lower walls to shine enough light for the cars around the perimeter to have adequate light for safety. The developer will then calculate the angle and the location of the light poles from the sidewalks on the opposing sides of the street, and then gauge the height of the posts so that all that is seen is the glow of the light. All of the lighting posts will be shielded so that the light is shooting down and out, and not polluting the outside area. Lighting must be bright enough to provide security, but not too bright as to annoy neighbors. Mr. Cornell stated that the entire lighting plan will be presented to the Village Council before the plans are finalized. He noted that the difference in the cost for lighting fixtures is incidental.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Cornell stated that Joe Volpe is not present this evening because he is attending his son’s graduation from U.S. Army Basic/Specialty Training at Fort Bennington. There was a round of applause from everyone present.

  1. DISCUSSION
  2. Ridgewood Water
  3. Water Conservation Ordinance

Richard Calbi, Director of Operations, was present to answer questions and concerns from the Village Council members regarding Ordinance No. 3588.

Mayor Knudsen explained that Ridgewood Water customers have expressed concerns with some of the restrictions contained in the newly adopted Water Conservation Ordinance. A suggestion was made to allow one year to implement the requirement that customers install rain sensors on the sprinkler systems. Some systems are older than others, and it will take time to research which rain sensor will work with which system. Mr. Calbi stated that unless a sprinkler system is operating when it is raining, the Village will not be checking houses for compliance. The rain sensor is required if a customer is requesting an exemption. A customer must have both a rain sensor and a smart controller to qualify for an exemption. A rain sensor is actually needed for a smart controller to work properly.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Calbi explained that the restrictions of watering on certain days and at certain times will be enforced. Customers can bring violations before the municipal court, if they feel they were issued in error.

Mr. Calbi told the story of a member of the Village staff, and a customer of Ridgewood Water, who installed a smart controller. The smart controller was set to water this morning; however, because it was connected to the customer’s smart phone, it knew that it was going to rain on Friday so it did not water the lawn. The customer installed the smart controller himself, but still needs to get the smart sensor certified.

Mayor Knudsen stated that some residents requested to have the hours when hand watering is prohibited to be shortened to 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., instead of 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., because it is more likely that customers will be home during the unrestricted hours. Mr. Calbi explained that, from an operational standpoint, the restricted hours were chosen on the basis of the amount of water needed to refill the tanks based on the usage during the night from automatic systems. Another reason was relative to temperature. Watering should be done during the coolest times of the day, to minimize evaporation. Mr. Calbi pointed out that there are no prohibitions on the days when hand watering can occur.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Calbi explained that children running through a sprinkler is not prohibited. Mr. Calbi stated that this is addressed on the Ridgewood Water website under Frequently Asked Questions. Gutter cleaning, power washing a home, and filling a pool are not prohibited uses, as they occur infrequently, as compared to watering, which is a daily event.

Under questioning by Councilman Sedon, Mr. Calbi explained that car washing is not prohibited; however, the use of an automatic car wash that recycles water is recommended. The website also contains ideas on how to save water while washing your car, like using a bucket.

Mayor Knudsen recommended a bulk mailing to every Ridgewood resident detailing the restrictions contained within the Water Conservation Ordinance, why these restrictions are necessary, and the plans for the future. Mr. Calbi stated that he will provide all the information needed for a bulk mailing. Ms. Mailander stated that this will be worked on internally.

Councilman Hache spoke of the importance of conservation and he commended everyone on being proactive.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Calbi stated that Ho-Ho-Kus enacts two-day-a-week water restrictions annually from May to September. Instead of issuing violations for noncompliance, Ho-Ho-Kus adds a surcharge on the water bill. Mr. Calbi noted that water restrictions occur in the western and southern portions of New Jersey, as well. Limiting watering times, watering during the cooler parts of the day, watering less, watering smart, and planting drought-tolerant landscaping are all recommendations made by drought experts.

  1. Policy
  2. Flag Flying Policy for Village-Owned Lands and Buildings

Village Attorney Matthew Rogers reported to the Village Council on the legal and policy implications of the request for flying the Gay Pride Flag on the municipal flag pole in front of the Municipal Building.

After going through discussions and looking at the case law, Mr. Rogers determined that the Village Council is not required to allow the Gay Pride Flag to fly on the municipal flag pole. The case law is clear when dealing with private, political expressions, such as the Gay Pride Flag. The fact that the flag pole is on public property does not necessarily mean that the Village must allow the expression of that particular political position on the public property. That being said, the Village would be required to allow political expression if the location is one that has been historically and customarily used as the public forum. A public forum is a place within the municipality or within the governmental entities border that has regularly become the place for the staging of things such as petition drives, political speech, political functions, and religious functions. A public forum is the one place where people in the community can rely on finding what is going on in the community from a political standpoint, or where one would expect this political standpoint to come from. Mr. Rogers noted that this description sounds more like Van Neste Square than the Municipal Building.

Mr. Rogers stated that he knew of requests made over the years for doing certain politically expressive things in the front of the Municipal Building. These requests were denied, not necessarily because of content, but because of the fact that this location has never been used as the public forum before. From a historical perspective, neither the front of the Municipal Building or the flag in particular, has had that customary practice.

Mr. Rogers explained that the following issues need to be taken into account when considering the request to allow political expression on municipal property: 1.) Just because a site is on municipal property does not necessarily mean it must be used for private/political expression; and 2.) Public property, which has not by tradition or design become a forum, can be reserved by the municipality and saved from this expression by the municipality. Over the years, the front of the Municipal Building and the municipal grounds in the front, particularly on Ridgewood Avenue and the flag pole, have been preserved and have not been the site for political expression. This is not a location that people rely on to find out what is being expressed politically.

Mr. Rogers stated that the First Amendment does not necessarily guarantee access to governmental property simply because it is owned by the government. The U.S. Supreme Court has upheld a content-neutral ban on the use of public property for private expression. Once it can be shown that a municipality is taking a position based upon the content of the expression, then the municipality runs afoul of the constitutional safeguards for freedom of speech.  

Mr. Rogers stated that seeing that this area or this flag pole really isn’t a public forum and that there have been efforts to try and preserve the front of the Municipal Building and the flag pole to secure it and keep it from becoming a public forum, the Village Council, back in the fall of 2016, adopted an ordinance that dealt with the aftermath of the 2016 elections and campaign signs. The ordinance adopted included political signs in a category for temporary signs, which restricted all temporary signs from public property. Political signs were placed in the category of temporary signs because the Village Council did not want to discriminate based on content. The Village Council did not want to do anything that would predict or leave a perception that the Village was taking issue with certain things as a result of what the sign was saying. The Village Code indicates that flags can be considered signs, with the exception of the American Flag, State Flag, or any governmental entity flag. The fact that the Village has prohibited temporary signs from public properties would give an objector, someone who may object to the use of the flag pole for a private interest or a private speech expression, a strong, sustainable argument in a court of law. The definition of a politically expressive sign or flag is a sign or flag that is promoting a cause that creates political judgment on someone’s part. This falls under the category of several cases handled by the U.S. Supreme Court, and cited by Mr. Rogers in his memorandum to the Village Councilmembers. The fact that the flag pole has not been used as a political forum, leads to the question of setting a precedent. It can be shown historically that the flag pole has been reserved, and that an effort has been made to keep it from being a public forum that may be in another location within the municipality.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Rogers stated that the law does not prohibit the flying of a political interest flag. However, Mr. Rogers noted that the Village Ordinance makes a strong argument, if someone wanted to challenge it, that a political interest flag, such as the Gay Pride Flag, is not permitted on public property. Councilman Voigt stated that he did not see the Gay Pride Flag as political; he sees it as an expression of inclusiveness and as an example of something the Village should embrace. Mr. Rogers explained that this falls under the position that a municipality should not deal with the content of a sign or flag. Mr. Rogers did not feel that calling the Gay Pride Flag a political sign or a sign that expresses a political interest, taints the position of someone who either supports the position of gay pride or is against it. At the same time, when dealing with these types of expressive positions, it could be called inclusionary; however, this doesn’t matter because the ordinance does not take a position from a content perspective at all. The ordinance takes the position that it is a temporary sign and is to be included in that category of temporary signs that are restricted from public property.

Councilman Sedon stated that the municipality already flies the American Flag, a potent symbol of inclusion, freedom, and justice that is recognized all over the world. The American Flag represents every single American, no matter what race, creed, sexual orientation, religion or lack of religion. Many good people died to preserve this right. Ridgewood is a community of inclusion. Councilman Sedon expressed concerns with setting a precedent and the problems that may arise as more and more groups request the flying of their flag, including being put in the position of choosing which cause or issue is more important than another cause or issue. Mr. Rogers noted that this falls under policy implications, which the Village Council must discuss and determine. Under the Constitution, the protection of free speech does not allow regulation or assignment of groups who can fly or can’t fly their flags.

Councilwoman Walsh pointed out that the Holi Celebration was held on public property and this was an expression of a certain group’s spring festival. A blue line was painted down the street to celebrate the respect the Village has for their police officers. The baseball parade goes down the main street. There are many symbols of other groups around town that are inclusive and she felt the flying of the Gay Pride Flag as a sign of inclusiveness should not be kept from the Village. Councilwoman Walsh did not feel the Gay Pride Flag should be on the same halyard as the American Flag. She suggested placing the Gay Pride Flag on a stand either inside Village Hall or in front of Village Hall, as a great expression of the Village’s inclusiveness.

Councilman Hache noted that this is not any easy topic to discuss as there are legal, practical, and human aspects to it. Councilman Hache stated that as a Hispanic, he is particularly sensitive to the issues of inclusion and equality. When also considering the responsibilities of an elected official, it is incumbent upon all elected officials to be inclusive and never reject, ignore, or single-out any individual group of people. Elected officials are committed to providing an environment of openness and inclusion. In this same spirit, it is important for elected officials not to take a political stand or express a private interest in promoting specific individuals or groups. The Village’s policy of raising the National and State Flags, represents the broader inclusion of all constituents equally. The Gay Pride Flag is considered a private expression, not a public flag. As a community of individuals and businesses, we are more than welcome to fly any banner or flag we support.

Councilman Hache noted that the Holi Celebration was not sponsored by the Village of Ridgewood. This was a group that needed a field for a party and made a request before the Field Committee. There are many groups that are given access to a field if there is an availability. Councilman Hache did not feel that anyone sitting on the dais this evening was against what the Gay Pride Flag represents. However, he questioned what will happen when a group requests to fly their flag, but the elected officials are against what that flag represents.

Mayor Knudsen stated that there is no doubt that the Village Council and the Village of Ridgewood are always in favor of inclusion and find that bias-based incidents or concerns to be deplorable. Mayor Knudsen explained that she cannot consider the level of empathy she feels for all people, while thinking this issue through, legally. Setting aside precedent and setting aside emotions is very difficult. There is law on the books. The ordinance passed by the Village Council mitigated that personal speech must be considered as political speech on government-owned property. Mayor Knudsen expressed a concern that a group may request to fly a flag that represents views that she personally feels to be repugnant. This then becomes suggestive, which creates a problem with saying no. Mayor Knudsen stated that while she would be happy to fly the Gay Pride Flag, she did not feel the Village Council should change the ordinance or violate the ordinance at this point, as it protects everyone and gives everyone equal opportunity under the flying of the American Flag.

Mayor Knudsen thanked the members of the Community Relations Advisory Board of Ridgewood and Glen Rock (CRAB) for their patience.

Mayor Knudsen felt that no other flag should be flown and that the ordinance should be respected. The Village is inclusionary. The Village embraces the LGBT Community and wants everyone to feel at home. Reflecting the Village Councilmembers inclusionary sprit, the Village Council will adopt a proclamation in recognition of June being Gay Pride Month.  

A discussion followed on how to proceed since the Village Ordinance states that political signs are considered temporary signs, and temporary signs are prohibited on public property. Councilman Voigt repeated that he did not see the Gay Pride Flag as political, and that he was in favor of allowing it to fly at the Municipal Building. Mr. Rogers advised the Village Council to take a position on this issue at a later date, either based upon the ordinance or not based upon the ordinance, since there is a split among the Village Councilmembers.

Mayor Knudsen turned the meeting over to Deputy Mayor Sedon and left the meeting at 9:56 p.m.

  1. Parking

                        1.)        Village Hall & Library Parking Lot

Councilman Voigt stated that he asked for this discussion on the Village Hall and Library Parking Lot to be put on tonight’s agenda because there have been several complaints from the library that it is becoming exceedingly difficult for people to park in the lot when sports are taking place. Several suggestions were proposed, including signage clarity and placement, in particular directing parking for Veterans Field to the lot on the other side, which is already designated for it use, and moving some of the children’s afternoon activities to other fields.

Ms. Mailander noted that this parking problem has been an on-going challenge, especially during the spring and summer months. She suggested discussing this issue internally, which would include the Library Director.

Councilman Hache suggested that this issue be put on the Fields Committee agenda for their next meeting in June. He also suggested advising representatives from each of the sport’s organizations to inform parents of the parking restrictions. Ms. Mailander felt that education was key, especially for those who are from visiting teams. Councilman Hache felt this could be accomplished. Ms. Mailander understood that a recent GPS system address update will direct visitors to Veterans Field South instead of Village Hall.

Deputy Mayor Sedon noted that after this issue is discussed internally and after the existing policies are communicated to all the teams, the discussion will be placed back on the Village Council’s agenda.

  1. Budget
  2. Reward of Contract - Firehouse Roof

Ms. Mailander explained that the Village received six bids for the roof replacement at the main firehouse located at 201 East Glen Avenue. There were four nonresponding plan holders. The low bid was received from NDP Construction, LLC, out of Little Silver, New Jersey. The low bidder submitted the majority of the required bid package items, with all necessary information.

The low bidder is new to the Village; however, the Engineering Division is recommending them at a cost of $126,760.

Under questioning by Deputy Mayor Sedon, Village Engineer Christopher Rutishauser explained that there is a separate line item in the proposal for the removal and the reinstallation of the solar panels. NDP Construction, LLC bid $9,440 for the removal of the solar panels and the bid for the reinstallation of the solar panels was $10,560. Both prices are included in the total cost of $126,760.

  1. Award of Contract - Rebid of School Bus Transportation

Ms. Mailander recalled that the only submission received for School Bus Transportation Services during the original bidding process was rejected by the Village Council because it was higher than what was allocated. A rebid was held, and three submissions were received. The low bidder was Durham School Services out of Hawthorne, New Jersey. The Village has a very positive history with this vendor.

  1. Authorize Additional Funding for Special Attorney for RCRD

Ms. Mailander explained that additional money is needed for the services of the RCRD conflict attorney, Peter Scandariato, Esq. The original professional services contract needs to be amended from $25,000 to an amount not to exceed $50,000. Ms. Mailander will speak with Robert Rooney, Ridgewood C.F.O., as well as Mr. Scandariato, to try to determine a final total. The case should be ending shortly.

  1. Award of Contract - Rock Salt

Ms. Mailander explained that this contract is for the purchase of rock salt from the Bergen County Cooperative Purchasing Program, at a cost of $56.86 per ton.

Under questioning by Deputy Mayor Sedon, Ms. Mailander stated that she will find out if there is any rock salt left over from last year. Mr. Rutishauser felt there was some rock salt left over.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Ms. Mailander stated that Ridgewood has a rock salt cost limit of $40,000.

  1. Award Professional Services Contract - Historic Consultant -

                                    Schedler Property

Ms. Mailander explained that the Village needs the services of a historic architectural consultant in order to proceed with Phase I of the Zabriski-Schedler House Stabilization Project. The historic consultant will also be preparing for Phase II, which includes windows, security, fire alarm, heating, air conditioning, wiring, and plumbing, as well as the work needed for the nomination of the house in the National Register of Historic Places. The Village is still waiting to hear if the County Grant was received.   The historic consultant is the same firm the Village used for the train station, Connolly and Hickey Historical Architects. The total cost is not to exceed $50,000.

Ms. Mailander explained that as a result of the “Pay to Play” forms being delayed until after the May 10, 2017 Public Meeting, she is requesting the scheduling of a Special Public Hearing at the May 24, 2017 Work Session to allow this contract to be awarded then instead of waiting until June. The historic consultant is actually in the process of doing work now, because the application for Phase II of the County Grant is due on June 30, 2017.

Councilman Voigt questioned how the upkeep of the Zabriski-Schedler House will be funded over time. He also questioned the purposes for which the house will be used. Ms. Mailander stated that these issues can be placed on a future agenda for discussion.

  1. Policy
  2. Boards and Committees - Structures and By-laws

Ms. Mailander stated that most of the Boards and Committees have submitted their Structures and By-laws. The documents were presented to the Village Councilmembers for their review. The documents will be discussed at a future Village Council meeting and copies will be available at the Village Clerks Office and on the Village website.

  1. Amend Chapter 212 - Parks and Recreation Areas - Prohibition of Dogs in Parks

Ms. Mailander explained that Chapter 212-29 prohibits dogs in the following parks: Citizens Park, Graydon Park, Maple Park, Pleasant Park, Twinney Pond Park, Van Neste Park, and Veteran’s Memorial Field. This amendment will add Irene Habernickel Family Park and the Schedler Park property to the list of parks that prohibit dogs. This section of the Village Code has not been updated in many years, and both of these parks are new to the Village’s park inventory. Within the last year, there have been at least three or four documented instances of dogs being either on-leash or off-leash, where there are children playing in the park or on the playground, and the dog was interacting with the children inappropriately. Last summer, a child was bitten by a dog that was on-leash. Including these two parks in the prohibition of dogs is in the Village’s best interest, so that additional unwelcome encounters between dogs and children or adults do not occur. There are other nearby places for people to allow their dogs to be off-leash, with one location being the dog park at the Wild Duck Pond County Park on East Ridgewood Avenue. This amendment will allow the Village to post signs and enforce the prohibition of dogs in these two parks, as is done at the other parks.

Councilman Hache stated that this amendment was discussed at a recent Parks, Recreation and Conservation Board (PRC) meeting. PRC Board members felt that prohibiting on-leash dogs in parks was too restrictive.

Councilwoman Walsh noted that there is a walking path at Irene Habernickel Family Park. She stated that she was in favor of allowing leashed dog at Irene Habernickel Family Park, as long as the owners pick-up after the dogs.

Deputy Mayor Sedon suggested allowing dogs on passive park lands and not on active sports fields. Mr. Rogers cautioned that the interpretation of this may become problematic, noting that active parklands become passive during the off-season. If a use is going to be restrictive, it should be identified by park or by area.

Ms. Mailander took a consensus of the Village Councilmembers which revealed that all were in favor of allowing leashed dogs in both Irene Habernickel Park and the Schedler Park property.

  1. Operations
  2. County OEM Shared Services Agreement - Borrowing of Equipment

Ms. Mailander explained that in order for the Village to borrow equipment from Bergen County OEM or Bergen County DPW, for both emergency and non-emergency use, the Village must enter into a Shared Services Agreement with the County. The resolution will authorize the Shared Services Agreement and will allow the Village to borrow equipment they either may not have or they need as a result of an equipment breakdown.

  1. Encroachment Agreement Resolution

Ms. Mailander explained that the restaurant called The Office is being renovated and its canopy is proposed to protrude over the sidewalk into the right-of-way of Chestnut Street. The encroachments into the Village right-of-way is minimal. This type of encroachment agreement is a formality. Other right-of-way encroachments have been previously approved by the Village Council for items such as gooseneck lighting and signage.

  1. Amending Chapter 190 - Land Use and Development - Illuminated Signs in the Business District

Ms. Mailander explained that there are two businesses in the CBD that currently have videos running in their storefronts to encourage people to come inside. Currently, there is a restriction in place that mandates the placement of illuminated signs a certain number of feet away from the storefront glass. These two businesses received summonses for noncompliance with this restriction.

Ms. Mailander asked for the Village Councilmembers’ input on allow these type of signs, with guidelines such as requiring the videos to be shown on a television screen. She noted that this may encourage more people to shop locally.

Councilman Hache asked to see the restriction that is already in place. He felt the signs in question were done very tastefully, and he did not want to place an additional burden or restriction on the business community. Councilman Hache also felt it was important to restrict signs that could be considered obnoxious.

Deputy Mayor Sedon noted that the ordinance was written before technology was involved to the point it is involved today. He asked for a policy recommendation to be prepared for the Village Councilmember’s review and further discussion.

Under questioning by Deputy Mayor Sedon, Mr. Rogers stated that in order to suspend the issuance of summonses for this violation, the Village Council will need to adopt a resolution. All Councilmembers agreed with this action and Mr. Rogers stated that he will draft this resolution.

  1. REVIEW OF MAY 10, 2017 REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING

Ms. Mailander stated that next week there will be five proclamations including National Cancer Survivors Day; Emergency Medical Services Week; Proclaim May as Mental Health Month; Proclaim May as Older Americans Month; and Proclaim June as Gay Pride Month. There will be swearing-in of Firefighter Dane Knudsen and a swearing-in of Firefighter Shelby Taylor. There will be a Scoping Hearing on the Green Acres Diversion on South Broad Street.

The following ordinance will be adopted: Establish a CAP Bank.

The 2017 Budget Hearing will be held, which includes an overview of the 2017 Budget; Village Council’s Comments; the Public Hearing on the 2017 Budget; and the consideration of adoption of the 2017 Budget.

Resolutions for Ridgewood Water include: Award Professional Services Contract - Engineering Services for Suez Corrosion Control.

The following ordinances are scheduled for introduction: Amend Chapter 260 - Trees and Shrubs; and Amend Chapter 212 - Parks and Recreation Areas - Prohibition of Off-leash Dogs in Certain Parks.

The scheduled public hearings include: General Capital Ordinance; Water Utility Capital Ordinance; Parking Utility Capital Ordinance; Amend Chapter 265 - Vehicles and Traffic - Parking Restrictions - Bogert Avenue and Cambridge Road; Amend Chapter 265 - Vehicles and Traffic - Parking Restrictions - Pomander Walk; and Construction of Handicapped Ramp at Irene Habernickel Family Park.

Resolutions include: Title 59 Approval - RFP for Parking Kiosk Pilot Program; Designate Graydon Pool - Historic Designation; Authorize Shared Services Agreement - Borrowing of Equipment from the County; Suspension of Ordinance for Certain Illuminated Signs in Retail Establishments; Award of Contract - Firehouse Roof; Award of Contract - Rebid of School Bus Transportation - Day Camp; Authorize Additional Funding for Special Attorney for RCRD Lawsuit; Award of Contract Under County Contract - Rock Salt; Proclaim June 2nd as National Gun Violence Awareness Day; and Authorize Addition of World War I Ridgewood Resident Veteran Killed in Action to Memorial Plaque.

  1. MANAGER’S REPORT

Recycling - Ms. Mailander stated that the Village was able to modify the pricing offered in the contract for recycling disposal. Based on these changes, the maximum exposure and revenue reduction is now $111,398 versus the $115,177 originally calculated. Since current market conditions are more fruitful, the projected revenue for 2017 may drop possibly by $46,158 instead of $70,432. Ms. Mailander thanked the Recycling Division, especially Johanna Luttrell, Recycling Program Aide, for all their hard work.

Graydon Pool Seasonal Badges - Ms. Mailander explained that seasonal badges are available for purchase online from CommunityPass and can be accessed by clicking on the picture of Graydon Pool on the homepage of the Village website. The Graydon Pool Office will also be open Saturday, May 13, 2017 and Saturday, May 20, 2017 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon for walk-in badge sales. Graydon Pool season begins June 3, 2017 from 10:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Important Public Meetings - Ms. Mailander stated that on May 8, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. there will be a Bergen County Freeholders Review of the Recommended 2016 Historic Preservation Trust Fund Grants. Included in this is a recommendation for the Zebriskie-Schedler House Phase I. On May 10, 2017, there will be the Public Hearing for the 2017 Municipal Budget. Budget newsletters explaining the budget arrived in each home yesterday. Also on May 10, 2017, there will be a Scoping Hearing for the Green Acres Diversion Issue, which will legitimize the sale of the South Broad Street Program land. This hearing will be included in the Village Council’s public meeting and the public is invited to comment on this diversion.

Dog Rabies Clinic - Ms. Mailander stated that there will be a free Dog Rabies Clinic at the Recycling Center on East Glen Avenue on May 10, 2017 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Microchipping will be available for the first 75 dogs.

Hazardous Waste Disposal - Ms. Mailander stated that The Bergen County Utilities Authority will be collecting household hazardous waste materials on Saturday, May 13, 2017 at Bergen County Campgaw Reservation in Mahwah, NJ, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., rain or shine. This service is free and county identification is required. Items accepted are car batteries, aerosol cans, fire extinguishers, florescent lightbulbs, propane gas cylinders, kerosene, used motor oil, insecticides, and gasoline.

  1. COUNCIL REPORTS

Financial Advisory Committee (FAC) - Councilman Voigt reported that the FAC met on Monday, May 1st. The FAC is in the process of determining the committee’s goals for the year and these goals should be up on the website shortly. The FAC would like to make a presentation to the Village Council on May 24, 2017 regarding an analysis of fees and fines. This analysis compares how the Village’s fees and fines compare to other municipalities and whether or not the fees and fines are appropriate, related to the cost of administrating them.

Planning Board - Councilman Voigt reported that the Planning Board met on May 2, 2017. The Dayton Broad Street Development Site Plan presentation focused on reviewing the parking and traffic in and around the development. The developers have agreed to update and upgrade the sidewalks, as well as the street in front of the site, including the ramps required under the Americans with Disabilities Act. There will be 187 parking spaces on the site, 53 of which will be unassigned for the 93-unit development. Some of the issues and concerns expressed by the Planning Board members centered around the effect of the development on the East Ridgewood Avenue/Broad Street intersection and the effect of the development and the new garage proposed for the Hudson Street area in terms of pedestrian and traffic safety. The Dayton Broad Street Development is scheduled for a site plan vote on June 20, 2017.

Councilman Voigt stated that there will be another Planning Board meeting on May 16, 2017. The KS Broad Street Development, located at the corner of Broad Street and Franklin Avenue, and a presentation on the Enclave Site Review are on the agenda. There should be a vote on the KS Broad Street Development Site Plan that evening. There are continued concerns regarding the Franklin Avenue/Broad Street intersection all the way down to the intersection at Franklin Avenue and Maple Avenue. These concerns include traffic light upgrades, and the downstream effects of upgrading only one out of the four traffic lights in that particular traffic corridor. The desire is to upgrade all four of these traffic lights. To accomplish this, substantial help is needed from the developer and from Bergen County in order to alleviate pedestrian and traffic safety issues along the Franklin Avenue corridor. This includes developer contributions for traffic light upgrades themselves, both at Franklin Avenue and Broad Street and Franklin Avenue and Maple Avenue. The Planning Board will likely vote on the KS Broad Development Application on May 16, 2017.

Ridgewood Environmental Advisory Committee (REAC) - Deputy Mayor Sedon reported that REAC will be meeting on Tuesday, May 9, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. in the Garden Room.

Shade Tree Commission - Deputy Mayor Sedon reported that the Shade Tree Commission will not be meeting on Tuesday, May 9th. Instead, there will be a lecture on Urban Forestry and Street Trees, which will take place at the Ridgewood Public Library starting at 7:30 p.m. The presenter at this lecture will be Nick Polunin, an Associate Professor in the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources at Rutgers University and a Certified Tree Expert. The discussion will include sustainable tree management and the challenges facing urban trees, including care and maintenance.

Graydon Pool - Deputy Mayor Sedon reported that the April sales for discounted Graydon Pool badges have increased substantially from 2016’s April sales that did not include the discount; from 199 in 2016 to 888 in 2017.

Parks, Recreation and Conservation Board (PRC) - Councilman Hache reminded everyone that tickets are still available for the Party in the Park, the 125th celebration of Ridgewood High School, to be held on May 19, 2017 at Veterans Park. This event is being hosted by the Ridgewood High School Alumni Association and is open to the whole community. There will be dancing and Celebrity DJ Nick Cannon will be there. The next PRC Board meeting will be held on May 23, 2017.

Fields Committee - Councilman Hache stated that the next Fields Committee meeting will be held on June 5, 2017 at 7:30 p.m. at the Stable

Central Business District Advisory Committee - Councilman Hache reported that the next Central Business District Advisory Committee meeting will be held on Thursday, May 4, 2017 at 7:30 p.m. in the Garden Room.

  1. PUBLIC COMMENTS

Deputy Mayor Sedon asked if there were any comments or questions from the public.

Tommy Damiano, 274 South Broad Street, stated that the Broad Street Fair has been postponed and will be rescheduled for either June or July. He is currently working with Ms. Mailander.

Regarding the flying of the Gay Pride Flag, Mr. Damiano reported that, at their April meeting, the Ridgewood Guild voted unanimously to raise the Gay Pride Flag. The members of the Ridgewood Guild suggested buying flags and displaying them in merchants’ windows. A suggestion was also made to fly the Gay Pride Flag for two weeks at Village Hall and two weeks at the park.

Mr. Damiano stated that he was approached last summer about a local merchant reward program that was different from the Municipal Card program presented this evening. He felt that additional research is necessary since there are different programs available. Mr. Damiano did feel this was a good concept and, as the business owner of Mango Jam, he would participate. He pointed out that the Ridgewood Guild already has a card that offers a 10% discount to customers of 53 merchants, and he understood that the Chamber of Commerce also has a rewards card, so something would have to be worked out.

Mr. Damiano stated that he was not in favor of neon signs, backlit signs or televisions up against the windows of businesses in the CBD. Mr. Damiano stated that some of the members of the Ridgewood Guild felt that the Building Department was being too strict regarding what can be put outside of their stores. Eliminating all of the product outside the stores takes away from the charm. Mr. Damiano did not think a flat screen television placed in a storefront window is charming; however, when store owners embellish their facades with some product, it adds to the charm of the Village and entices customers to come into the store. He noted that there is a fine line, as no one wants racks of clothes outside. Mr. Damiano pointed out that the Building Department denied a request from Greenbaum Interiors to hold a tent sale. Mr. Damiano felt that a tent sale at this location, which is not downtown or near the historic district, should not be considered offensive.

Mr. Damiano stated that he was disappointed with the design of the parking garage presented this evening, as he felt it looked too much like a pre-fab parking garage. He preferred the design presented by Desmond.

Mayor Sedon pointed out that the proposal this evening was a starting point to start community discussion on the design of the garage. The garage proposed this evening is not the one that will be built; it will be improved.

Kathryn Schmidt, 123 South Irving Street, stated that she understood concerns regarding the precedent that would be set if the Gay Pride Flag was permitted to be displayed at Village Hall. However, she questioned if this was any different than the Village drawing a blue line down Maple Avenue to recognize police officers. The Rainbow Flag is the symbol of the Gay Pride Movement, and the fact that it is a flag is incidental. Ms. Schmidt pointed out that LGBT colleagues can be fired from their jobs for being gay in 30 states, so the flag is political, in some sense. It is a different kind of statement than reinforcing something that the nation overall already accepts. Ms. Schmidt suggested that the Village needs to be more obvious about supporting inclusion. If more municipalities step-up to say that they support inclusion, it may lead to more State and National support of inclusion and the passing of the Employment Nondiscrimination Act.

Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated his approval of the proposed garage design coming in at a cost of $8million dollars, as opposed to a previous design which came in at a cost of $12.3 million. Mr. Loving expressed a concern that parking revenues will not pay for this entire garage, leaving an additional burden on taxpayers.

Mr. Loving pointed out that the drone-flyover video presentation depicted a number of empty parking spaces, and he questioned the time and date this video was filmed. Mr. Loving stated that he was not convinced of the need for the parking garage and he urged the Village Council to study this issue further.

Mr. Loving urged the Village Council to look at the additional cost per space for the parking garage when the current parking spaces are included in the calculations. It brings the cost from $33,000 per space to $48,000 per space.

Mr. Loving understood that the Graydon Pool membership numbers did not include out-of-town residents and he asked the Village Council to report this number, as well as the total membership count for 2016 at the next meeting.

Tess Giuliani, 174 Union Street, felt that the parking garage presented this evening was unattractive. She described the design of a previously presented parking garage as magnificent.

Mike Velicu, 250 Hope Street, spoke of his observation of vehicles with CBD parking stickers parking on Cottage Place. He urged the Village Council to find ways to communicate, to educate and to enforce employee parking restrictions.

Ms. Mailander stated that she will provide a breakdown of the Graydon Pool membership numbers for 2016 and 2017 for the next meeting.

Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that the drone was flown over the location of the proposed garage on a Tuesday morning at 10:00 a.m./10:30 a.m., which is not the busiest time for the CBD.

Councilman Hache pointed out that the drone was flown during the school system’s spring recess, and that is also a slow time for the CBD.

Councilman Hache stated that looking at the incremental cost, the parking garage price per space is still below what was previously proposed. He noted that the original proposal back in June, 2016 had a proposed cost of $12.3 million for 325 spaces. This structure did not fit on the site and was rejected. The same builder came back with a smaller version that fit on the lot, at a proposed cost of $10.5 million for 240 spaces. The current presentation has a proposed cost of $8 million for 240 spaces, with a proposed cost after aesthetic improvements of $8.6 million. He felt the difference in cost savings makes this design a worthwhile venture to explore.

  1. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION

Deputy Village Clerk Donna Jackson read Resolution #17-125 to go into Closed Session as follows:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Hache, seconded by Councilman Sedon, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Work Session was adjourned at 11:02 p.m.

_____________________________

                                                                                                                     Susan Knudsen      

                                                                                                                           Mayor

_____________________________

            Donna M. Jackson

          Deputy Village Clerk

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20170503 Village Council Work Session

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, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY ON MAY 3, 2017 AT 7:30 PM

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

Mayor Knudsen called the meeting to order at 7:31 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. At roll call, the following were present: Councilmembers Hache, Sedon, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen.  Also present were; Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney; Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; and Donna Jackson, Deputy Village Clerk.  

Mayor Knudsen led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and held a Moment of Silence for all the men and women serving our nation and all first responders.

  1. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

Mayor Knudsen asked if there were any comments or questions from the public.

Art Wrubel, 79 Ridge Road, stated that the train station is on the National Register of Historic Places. The parking lot adjacent to the train station was built around 1914 and opened in 1916. The property where the parking is proposed was created as a park, with trees that focused on the railroad station. The train station and the park were originally designed to work together. Mr. Wrubel urged the Village Council to keep this in mind when designing the proposed parking area.

Tony Damiano, 274 South Broad Street, thanked the Village Council for proceeding with efforts to build a parking garage. Mr. Damiano noted that the limited availability of parking was hurting the Central Business District (CBD) and he felt the addition of a parking garage would help improve foot traffic in the CBD, as well as encourage businesses to remain there.

Mr. Damiano hoped that none of the landscaping is taken away from the train station to create parking. He felt this would hurt the overall look of the CBD. Mr. Damiano stated that he was not in favor of moving the bus terminal over to the train station, especially if the Hudson Street Parking Garage is approved.

Bonnie Chalek, 110 Sheridan Terrace, introduced herself as a member of Mom’s Demand Action, Bergen County Chapter, a gun violence prevention organization. June 2nd is National Gun Violence Awareness Day and last year’s Village Council unanimously voted to pass a resolution honoring this day. Approximately 91 Americans die and 150 people are treated at hospitals as the result of gun violence. Many neighboring municipalities, including Glen Rock, Fair Lawn, Mahwah, Oradell, and Clifton have passed similar resolutions this year. Ms. Chalek urged the Village Council to pass this resolution again this year. Ms. Chalek also urged everyone to wear orange that day. The color orange symbolizes the value of human life. It is the color hunters wear in the woods to protect themselves from others. She also asked for permission to tie orange ribbons outside of Village Hall.

Chris Colabella, 159 Cottage Place, spoke in favor of the passing of a resolution for gun violence awareness. Ms. Colabella noted that domestic violence happens everywhere, and the passing of this resolution will help to make victims aware of their risks from gun violence, it will show them support, and it will encourage public awareness.

Madeline Berris, 158 Hope Street, spoke in support of passing the resolution naming June 2, 2017 as Gun Violence Awareness Day, to encourage public awareness.

Kathryn Schmidt, 123 South Irving Street, urged the Village Council to adopt the resolution that raises awareness about gun violence and gun safety. The American Medical Association has called gun violence a health crisis, noting that approximately 30,000 men, women, and children die each year from guns. Gun fatalities and automobile accident fatalities have been almost equal in number over the past five years. The percentage of firearm deaths in the United States is approximately 10%, as compared to 2% in Canada; 1% in Australia; and less than 1% in the United Kingdom. Ms. Schmidt noted that policies around gun control and the right to bear arms is a divisive issue in the United States; however, she hoped that a focus on gun violence and how to prevent it would be something that could bring the country together.

Rurik Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, spoke in favor of hiring an historian as a consultant for the Schedler Property. He asked if the public will have a say in who is chosen as historian.

Mr. Halaby asked if members of the Financial Advisory Committee (FAC) were allowed to see the 2017 Budget before it was made public, describing them as a high-level group of individuals. Mr. Halaby stated that the did not trust all the Village Councilmembers, referring to them as amateurs. Mayor Knudsen called a point of order and Mr. Halaby left the podium.

Cynthia Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, noted that the greenery at the train station was originally known as the Grand Plaza. In the interest of preservation and conservation, Ms. Halaby felt that the destruction of an historic area is totally wrong. She urged the Village Council to think very carefully about moving forward on the proposed parking.

Jeanne Thiesen, 385 Colonial Road, urged the Village Council to approve the flying of the Gay Pride Flag during the month of June. This action will demonstrate how strongly the Village welcomes diversity in the community and how every member of the community is valued.

Lorraine Reynolds, 550 Wyndemere Avenue, felt the addition of 41 parking spaces at the train station would be invaluable to commuters. The property proposed for these parking spaces is used as a walk-through, not as a park. After the parking is constructed, there will still be a sidewalk and greenery, and additional trees are proposed. Ms. Reynolds urged the Village Council to approve this plan.

Mayor Knudsen stated that a resolution, encouraging the wearing of the color orange to symbolize gun violence awareness, will be on the Village Council agenda.

Mayor Knudsen thanked Mr. Wrubel for his comments and assured him that the Village Council will respect the historic integrity of the train station.

Mayor Knudsen noted that the historian for the Schedler Property is the same architectural historian that did the work on the train station, so every attention to detail will be followed.

Mayor Knudsen stated that, concerning the FAC’s role in the budget process, the Village Council was very mindful and absolutely respectful of the requests and needs of the Village Staff. Recommendations concerning the budget were left to the professionals on-staff. Members of the FAC were welcome to attend the budget hearings.

Mayor Knudsen stated that the Village Council is not going to tolerate any ongoing personal attacks from the public at the podium. It is a violation of the rules of order.

  1. PRESENTATION
  2. Addition of Name to War Memorial

Christopher Stout, 251 Morningside Place, explained that, as a result of his research of military casualties as listed on the War Memorial at Van Neste Square, he is requesting the addition of the name of Pfc. Anthonie J. Wendels to the World War I Memorial Plaque. Pfc. Wendels was born in Rotterdam in 1895. When he enlisted in the American Expeditionary Forces in 1917, he gave his address of record as 209 Ridgewood Avenue, Ridgewood, New Jersey. Pfc. Wendels entered the war in 1918, was wounded twice, gassed once, and killed in action on November 4, 1918, one week before the signing of the armistice. Pfc. Wendels earned the Distinguished Service Cross, as well as France’s Medaille Militaire (Military Medal). To Mr. Stout’s knowledge, Pfc. Wendels has not been memorialized anywhere.

Mr. Stout requested the Village Council’s approval to claim Pfc. Wendels as a citizen of Ridgewood and to place his name on the World War I Plaque at the War Memorial at Van Neste Square during this year’s Memorial Day Ceremony. The plaque, including installation, will cost $1,020.00. If the Village is unable to pay this cost, Mr. Stout felt he could find private funding.  

Mayor Knudsen stated that she distributed a copy of the story of Pfc. Wendels to all the Village Councilmembers. A resolution to add Pfc. Wendel’s name to the World War I War Memorial has been drafted. Mr. Stout also presented a newsletter from the Bergen County Historical Society that gave additional details of Pfc. Wendel’s life.

Mayor Knudsen stated that the Village was thrilled and honored to add Pfc. Wendel’s name to the World War I Memorial Plaque. She thanked Mr. Stout, Joe Suplicki, and Stan and Peggy Norris for all their hard work.

  1. Estate Card - Property Tax Reduction

Ralph Black, the Government Relations Director of Municipal Cards, LLC, explained that his company has developed a new and innovative tax savings program. The program uses a Debit MasterCard that offers a percentage back on purchases paid toward the cardholder’s property taxes. Bonus rewards are earned on local purchases and on-line purchases. These rewards can be as high as 25%. The reward is paid automatically to the Village. The Village benefits by a reduction in the tax burden and the promotion of local spending. The property owner will get much needed tax relief and local businesses will benefit from increased traffic and revenue.   Municipal Cards, LLC will ask the Village to promote the voluntary program by either a mailer or a newsletter to the homeowners. Municipal Cards, LLC will provide the municipality with a website. The homeowner will sign on for the debit card (since it is a debit card, everyone is approved). The homeowner will receive the card in five to seven days and can start using it immediately. Once the homeowner signs on, the relationship will be between the cardholder and the bank. Municipal Cards, LLC will identify the purchases made in Ridgewood, process the reward amount, and a payment will be made to the Village in the form of a mortgage company escrow payment at the time designated by the Village Council. Payments can be made earlier than the due date.

There are three levels of rewards, as follows: a base amount of .25% on every dollar; as much as 10% at participating local merchants; and then up to 25% on purchases made on-line. Currently, there are 3,200 on-line merchants already sign-on. Based on Municipal Cards, LLC scaling, property owners can save up to 25% of their property tax bill. Mr. Black explained that this rate is based upon the average property tax amount across the United States, a blended reward rate, and an average spending level of $9,200.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Black stated that since this is not a credit card, there are no interest charges on the unpaid balance.

Under questioning by Councilman Sedon, Mr. Black explained that the base reward of .25% is paid by Municipal Cards, LLC. Local merchants who choose to participate in the program will choose a reward level, where they will pay between 5% and 10%. On-line merchants will pay in the same manner.   Municipal Cards, LLC underwrites the cost of administering and implementing the program up until August 1, 2017. Municipal Cards, LLC will profit from the amount of the purchase that is taken from the interchange; it is only pennies on the dollar.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Black stated that there is no cap on how much reward money a property owner can earn.   The bank involved is Metabank. Metabank is the biggest, on-line bank in the United States and is headquartered in Iowa. Mr. Black understood that Metabank Financial Services operates out of North Dakota and he will confirm this via e-mail to the Village. There is no minimum balance required; however, it is suggested that the property owner deposit a minimum of $800.00 monthly into this account.  

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Black explained that local merchant participation is voluntary. The merchant will select what percentage of reward they are willing to offer and no contract is required. The merchant can stop and start the reward program at their discretion.

Councilman Hache questioned the program’s effectiveness at generating new business. Mr. Black explained that through the eight years of the research and development of this product and the last 4-5 months that the project has been live, Municipal Cards, LLC projects an increase of at least 15% to 20% in revenue for local businesses, as well as an increase in foot traffic. One-time promotions may also cost the business money, but only for that particular period of time. If the customer is given the incentive to come back to earn rewards, they may shop more often.

Councilman Hache noted that the average property tax bill in the United States is $2,100, as compared to the average property tax bill in Ridgewood of $16,000. Mr. Black pointed out that, based on figures released this week, the average tax bill in the United States is $2,600. Mr. Black explained that, since it is assumed that homeowners paying higher property taxes have higher spendable income, the potential to save 25% on property taxes still holds true.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Black stated that currently Municipal Cards, LLC is in contract negotiations with seven other municipalities. Mr. Black agreed to supply the Village Manager with the names of these towns, off the record. However, he did indicate that the town of Caldwell, New Jersey has shown a favorable view.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Black explained that Municipal Cards, LLC takes a piece of the transaction. Municipal Cards, LLC does not take any of the interest that may or may not be earned on the deposits made by the homeowner. The issue of interest is between the cardholder and the bank.

Mr. Black noted that Municipal Cards, LLC will offer a 9.1% match on rewards earned on-line by Ridgewood residents, as an additional revenue stream for the Village for use wherever they wish, including crediting that money back, on a proportional basis, to the taxpayers. Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Black said he will explain how the 9.1% rate was determined off the record in an e-mail to the Village Manager.

Village Manager, Heather Mailander stated that the great things about this program is that it is voluntary for both merchants and residents; merchants can offer rewards at their discretion since there is no contract; residents are given the opportunity of reducing their taxes by spending as they usually do; and foot traffic in the CBD will increase.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Black stated that he will provide additional information on branding the card and website with a map of Ridgewood or the Ridgewood logo.

Under questioning by Councilman Sedon, Councilman Hache stated that this rewards program was discussed with the Ridgewood Guild and the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce, who requested a presentation.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Black stated there is no minimum on the number of merchants participating in this program. It is anticipated that there will be more than one. Municipal Cards, LLC will work with the Village Council to promote the program and educate the public.

Under questioning by Ms. Mailander, Mr. Black explained that Municipal Cards, LLC has the capacity of altering the geographic boundaries of the program, if surrounding municipalities decide to adopt the same program.

Ms. Mailander explained that Municipal Cards, LLC is the sole source provider of this type of service, so a Request for Proposal (RFP) is not required.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Black explained that this card will be accepted wherever MasterCard is accepted. Municipal Cards, LLC defines a merchant as anyone who is open for business and sells commodities or services.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Black explained that the base reward amount of .25% is earned for every transaction. More rewards can be earned if the merchant participates in the program.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Black stated that commercial property owners will also receive rewards toward their taxes if they use the program’s debit card.

Mayor Knudsen stated that the Village Council will discuss this issue again.

  1. PIKE - Parking Garage

Peter Cornell, President, Pike Development Company and Mike Gestwick, Project Manager, Pike Development Company, were present for the discussion and video presentation.  

Mr. Cornell explained that Pike Development is part of the Pike Family of Companies. In existence since 1883, this company has been family owned for five generations. The company’s annual volume is close to $1billion. Pike Development is involved in many construction and development projects along the East Coast. Pike Development’s primary offices are in Rochester, New York; Albany, New York; and Orlando, Florida.

Mr. Cornell pointed out a list of parking garages that Pike Development has recently completed, as well as the current New Jersey projects on the video display.

Mr. Gestwick explained that the team is composed of four Pike Development staff members. Mr. Gestwick introduced two of those team members: Andrew Giordano, Project Executive and an expert in garage construction, in particular pre-manufactured garages; and Joe Volpe, who is primarily responsible for municipal approvals and drone operation.

Mr. Gestwick explained that the approach to the proposed project is to work directly with a pre-cast manufacturer. Starting with modular pieces that manufacturers already make, the plan calls for modifying those pieces to fit the site. The majority of the garage will be manufactured off-site in a factory setting and then assembled on location. This will result in a substantial cost savings versus ground-up construction. Approximately 75% of the garages constructed by Pike Development over the last 15 years have been pre-manufactured. If the shape of the property is unusual, the the cast-in-place construction method is used instead of precast.

Mr. Cornell addressed cost controls, which included a predefined profit on the construction side and a transparent transaction. Pike Development will take a 4% profit on the overall construction, and the entire bid process will be transparent to the municipality, so there are no hidden costs. Once it is determined what the ultimate structure will look like, Pike Development will take all the construction risks. Pike Development will give a guaranteed, maximum price and this number will never change. Mr. Cornell stated that this can be done in two ways: 1.) Pike Development can own the garage and lease it back to the Village; or 2.) Pike Development can build the garage for the municipality to own.

Mr. Gestwick presented aerial views of the site, which included the surrounding properties and the approximate dimensions of the proposed garage. Pike Development is proposing a pre-cast approach to the garage to keep the costs down. The Broad Street side of the garage will have a brick finish (real brick imbedded in the pre-cast). The Hudson Street side of the garage will have a stone finish that matches the church. Mr. Gestwick noted that the sketch presented is preliminary and subject to change.

Mr. Gestwick presented a real-time video of the site, taken by a drone, which included a simulation of the proposed parking garage on the property.

Mr. Gestwick explained that the project could be delivered as a construction project; a short-term lease (less than 10 years); or a long-term lease (full amortization at 25 years, when the building will be turned back over to the Village for $1.00).

Mr. Gestwick noted that, typically, garages are built with double-loaded lanes, which means that vehicles can park to the left or the right of the driveway. Because of width restrictions, the proposed garage will have one, double-loaded lane and one single-loaded lane. This creates some inefficiencies and drives up the cost per space.

Mr. Gestwick stated that the garage will take approximately 8 months to be 100% complete.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Cornell explained that the cost will be less than $8million, for 240 parking spaces.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Cornell explained that once a guaranteed, maximum price is established, as long as the Village doesn’t make any changes during the course of construction, that price will not change.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Gestwick stated that a mock-up of one panel of the facade will be presented, so the Village Council can get a better idea of how it will look. The choice of stone on the Hudson Street side was done to match the facade of the adjacent church; however, the company is open to any suggestions.

Councilman Voigt expressed concern with traffic control and parking during construction; in particular, the impact on the church and area businesses. Mr. Gestwick explained the proposal to place Jersey Barriers in the middle of one-half of Hudson Street to restrict traffic to one-lane during the construction period. The back-side will be kept open to allow delivery access for the businesses. The current parking spaces will be gone during the construction period. Representatives from Pike Developments Operations Department will meet with the Village Council to discuss the logistics.

Mr. Gestwick explained that the massive pieces of concrete will be moved through Village streets in the early evening and then set-up between 2:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m. The developer tries to keep large trucks off the road during high traffic times.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Gestwick explained that the developer used a 9.5’ width for the parking space. If the width was reduced to 8.5’, the opening of car doors could cause damage to adjacent vehicles. The only other way to add additional spaces to the 240 proposed would be to add another floor to the garage.

Under questioning by Councilman Sedon, Mr. Gestwick stated that the proposed garage height is under 40’.

Under questioning by Councilman Sedon, Mr. Cornell stated that he and Mr. Gestwick will be available for community meetings.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Gestwick explained that his company would ask for competitive bids from pre-cast manufacturers that operate within the State of New Jersey. In order to get budget numbers for tonight’s presentation, Pike Development worked with Unistress Corporation. The pre-cast material will have two warranties; the engineer who stamped the plans and the manufacturer of the pre-cast panels, as well as Pike Developments guarantee beyond that.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Gestwick stated that the age expectancy of a pre-manufactured garage depends on the quality of the maintenance. With pressure washing to remove salt on a regular basis and regular, preventative maintenance, concrete can last from 30 to 40 years. Without maintenance, problems will occur within 15 years.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Gestwick stated that once the contract is signed and the guaranteed maximum price is established, the price will not change. Any work the developer does to arrive at the guaranteed maximum price is included in the $8million estimated cost. Any changes requested by the Village after the contract is signed, will have to be financed by the Village.

Councilwoman Walsh asked if there would be an additional charge for providing different designs for the garage. Mr. Gestwick explained that the dimensions should not change because they work for pre-cast. The proposed facade can change, but the cost of the garage will increase, as a result of the change in the cost of materials for a different facade. Councilwoman Walsh felt that for the residents and the surrounding neighbors, aesthetics is critical. Aesthetics and cost will be the Village Council’s biggest concerns.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Cornell stated that he will e-mail a full list of the addresses of other garages the developer constructed in the area. He will also provide the Village Council with a copy of tonight’s Power Point presentation.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Cornell could recall only one issue, in the 150 years Pike Development Company has existed, that resulted in their walking away from a job. This involved rebuilding a courthouse in the City of Albany. The methodology was to rebuild the courthouse from the top down and the architect of record insisted that the plumbing be installed from the bottom up after the construction had already begun, which would have cost twice as much.

Mr. Cornell pointed out that Pike Development Company has no bank loans, no debt, and no litigation.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Gestwick stated that the garage is a tight fit on the lot, and does not encroach on the alley or the easements.

Councilman Hache noted that the least expensive quote the Village had received so far is approximately 31% higher than the $8million dollar cost estimate from Pike Development Company. Councilman Hache asked if the facade could be improved at a cost not to exceed this 31%. Mr. Gestwick estimated that changing the facade would cost an additional $40.00 per square foot of the facade. Using this estimate, Councilman Hache calculated that improving the facades on both sides of the structure would result in an approximately $560,000 or 8% increase in the estimated cost.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Cornell explained that Pike Development Company will provide 100% of the financing. On the short-term, the current rate for 7 years is 3.75% and the lender mandates a debt ratio coverage on top of the debt service. The debt ratio coverage is based on the Village’s credit rating and can run from a 1:10 debt ratio coverage to a 1:25 debt ratio coverage. The Village of Ridgewood has a AAA rating, so the debt ratio should be somewhere between a 1:10 and 1:15 debt ratio coverage. Pike Development Company does not charge more than the lender mandated debt ratio coverage. At the conclusion of the term, it is a guaranteed purchase, not an option for purchase. The by-out is the unamortized debt plus 10%. The other alternative is a 20 or 25-year financing arrangement, at 4.25% as of today’s standard, which is probably more than the Village would pay on a bond offering, but with a private placement with Pike Development Company, there is no subsequent cost. From that perspective it is fully amortized and at the end of the term, the Village takes the garage over for the cost of $1.00.

Councilman Hache questioned how cost estimates could be so different between construction companies. Mr. Cornell explained that approximately 80% of his company’s jobs come from repeat customers. Pike Development Company does have a large volume of clients and this gives them the ability to extend themselves a little more for major clients. Mr. Cornell noted that his company is the largest developer of Walmart facilities in the United States. Mr. Cornell stated that using transparent formulas with renter-mandated requirements eliminates a lot of negotiations and simplifies the process.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Cornell stated that for a client with a AAA credit rating, his company would go directly to an insurance company and would not use a bank. Pike Development Company does business with AIG Insurance.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Cornell explained that Pike Development Company is a construction and financing vehicle; they will not manage the garage unless requested by the Village. With the short-term financing option, the Village will not make any payments until the first lease payment is due, which is after the certificate of occupancy is issued.

Mayor Knudsen thanked Mr. Cornell and Mr. Gestwick for developing a detailed proposal in such a short time. She felt the design fit within the lot, and she was happy that the design included the statue by Paterson sculptor Gaetano Federici that was over the door of the original Village Hall building previously located on this site.   This statue is currently in storage.

Mayor Knudsen pointed out that the corner piece must go up another floor because there must be a way to get to the top. Mr. Gestwick estimated that this would bring it up another 5’ or 6’ because the top of that section is already at the top of the parapet wall. Mayor Knudsen felt that a brick design all the way around the building may be more aesthetically pleasing.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Cornell explained that the $33,000 cost per space falls in the middle as compared to the costs of other projects, which ranged from $15,000 a space to $70,000 a space. In the current market and with a double-loaded parking plan, the price per space would probably be around $26,000 to $28,000 per space.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Gestwick explained that another level would create an additional 60 parking spaces and increase the height of the building by 10 or 11 feet. He will provide the Village Council with an exact number. The cost would not go up, because adding another level will not substantially change the footings or the foundation. Mayor Knudsen pointed out that the size proposed was chosen to make sure that the structure fit on the lot both physically and aesthetically, and did not tower over the streetscape obscuring the view of the neighborhood’s two, beautiful church steeples.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Voigt, Mr. Gestwick stated that there are four levels of parking proposed, including roof-deck parking. The front structure will be extended another approximately 6’ to accommodate the elevator. The building will be within the Village Code height requirements. There will be a stair tower and an elevator in the front structure, and there will be a stair tower in the far corner in the back at the same height, to provide two means of egress.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Cornell explained that cars can enter and exit the garage wherever the Village Council desires; however, the developer must know this before the design is completed. Typically, the developer’s representative will meet with the Village’s traffic expert and discuss what is practical considering the design of the structure and the traffic pattern of the area. Mr. Cornell and Mr. Gestwick observed the traffic in the area today and found that it was very busy. Mr. Cornell suggested placing the entrance away from the intersection. Mayor Knudsen noted that this may also open up more on-street parking.

Mayor Knudsen asked Mr. Cornell to address lighting. Mr. Cornell explained that the parapet walls themselves will have lighting packs on the lower walls to shine enough light for the cars around the perimeter to have adequate light for safety. The developer will then calculate the angle and the location of the light poles from the sidewalks on the opposing sides of the street, and then gauge the height of the posts so that all that is seen is the glow of the light. All of the lighting posts will be shielded so that the light is shooting down and out, and not polluting the outside area. Lighting must be bright enough to provide security, but not too bright as to annoy neighbors. Mr. Cornell stated that the entire lighting plan will be presented to the Village Council before the plans are finalized. He noted that the difference in the cost for lighting fixtures is incidental.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Cornell stated that Joe Volpe is not present this evening because he is attending his son’s graduation from U.S. Army Basic/Specialty Training at Fort Bennington. There was a round of applause from everyone present.

  1. DISCUSSION
  2. Ridgewood Water
  3. Water Conservation Ordinance

Richard Calbi, Director of Operations, was present to answer questions and concerns from the Village Council members regarding Ordinance No. 3588.

Mayor Knudsen explained that Ridgewood Water customers have expressed concerns with some of the restrictions contained in the newly adopted Water Conservation Ordinance. A suggestion was made to allow one year to implement the requirement that customers install rain sensors on the sprinkler systems. Some systems are older than others, and it will take time to research which rain sensor will work with which system. Mr. Calbi stated that unless a sprinkler system is operating when it is raining, the Village will not be checking houses for compliance. The rain sensor is required if a customer is requesting an exemption. A customer must have both a rain sensor and a smart controller to qualify for an exemption. A rain sensor is actually needed for a smart controller to work properly.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Calbi explained that the restrictions of watering on certain days and at certain times will be enforced. Customers can bring violations before the municipal court, if they feel they were issued in error.

Mr. Calbi told the story of a member of the Village staff, and a customer of Ridgewood Water, who installed a smart controller. The smart controller was set to water this morning; however, because it was connected to the customer’s smart phone, it knew that it was going to rain on Friday so it did not water the lawn. The customer installed the smart controller himself, but still needs to get the smart sensor certified.

Mayor Knudsen stated that some residents requested to have the hours when hand watering is prohibited to be shortened to 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., instead of 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., because it is more likely that customers will be home during the unrestricted hours. Mr. Calbi explained that, from an operational standpoint, the restricted hours were chosen on the basis of the amount of water needed to refill the tanks based on the usage during the night from automatic systems. Another reason was relative to temperature. Watering should be done during the coolest times of the day, to minimize evaporation. Mr. Calbi pointed out that there are no prohibitions on the days when hand watering can occur.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Calbi explained that children running through a sprinkler is not prohibited. Mr. Calbi stated that this is addressed on the Ridgewood Water website under Frequently Asked Questions. Gutter cleaning, power washing a home, and filling a pool are not prohibited uses, as they occur infrequently, as compared to watering, which is a daily event.

Under questioning by Councilman Sedon, Mr. Calbi explained that car washing is not prohibited; however, the use of an automatic car wash that recycles water is recommended. The website also contains ideas on how to save water while washing your car, like using a bucket.

Mayor Knudsen recommended a bulk mailing to every Ridgewood resident detailing the restrictions contained within the Water Conservation Ordinance, why these restrictions are necessary, and the plans for the future. Mr. Calbi stated that he will provide all the information needed for a bulk mailing. Ms. Mailander stated that this will be worked on internally.

Councilman Hache spoke of the importance of conservation and he commended everyone on being proactive.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Calbi stated that Ho-Ho-Kus enacts two-day-a-week water restrictions annually from May to September. Instead of issuing violations for noncompliance, Ho-Ho-Kus adds a surcharge on the water bill. Mr. Calbi noted that water restrictions occur in the western and southern portions of New Jersey, as well. Limiting watering times, watering during the cooler parts of the day, watering less, watering smart, and planting drought-tolerant landscaping are all recommendations made by drought experts.

  1. Policy
  2. Flag Flying Policy for Village-Owned Lands and Buildings

Village Attorney Matthew Rogers reported to the Village Council on the legal and policy implications of the request for flying the Gay Pride Flag on the municipal flag pole in front of the Municipal Building.

After going through discussions and looking at the case law, Mr. Rogers determined that the Village Council is not required to allow the Gay Pride Flag to fly on the municipal flag pole. The case law is clear when dealing with private, political expressions, such as the Gay Pride Flag. The fact that the flag pole is on public property does not necessarily mean that the Village must allow the expression of that particular political position on the public property. That being said, the Village would be required to allow political expression if the location is one that has been historically and customarily used as the public forum. A public forum is a place within the municipality or within the governmental entities border that has regularly become the place for the staging of things such as petition drives, political speech, political functions, and religious functions. A public forum is the one place where people in the community can rely on finding what is going on in the community from a political standpoint, or where one would expect this political standpoint to come from. Mr. Rogers noted that this description sounds more like Van Neste Square than the Municipal Building.

Mr. Rogers stated that he knew of requests made over the years for doing certain politically expressive things in the front of the Municipal Building. These requests were denied, not necessarily because of content, but because of the fact that this location has never been used as the public forum before. From a historical perspective, neither the front of the Municipal Building or the flag in particular, has had that customary practice.

Mr. Rogers explained that the following issues need to be taken into account when considering the request to allow political expression on municipal property: 1.) Just because a site is on municipal property does not necessarily mean it must be used for private/political expression; and 2.) Public property, which has not by tradition or design become a forum, can be reserved by the municipality and saved from this expression by the municipality. Over the years, the front of the Municipal Building and the municipal grounds in the front, particularly on Ridgewood Avenue and the flag pole, have been preserved and have not been the site for political expression. This is not a location that people rely on to find out what is being expressed politically.

Mr. Rogers stated that the First Amendment does not necessarily guarantee access to governmental property simply because it is owned by the government. The U.S. Supreme Court has upheld a content-neutral ban on the use of public property for private expression. Once it can be shown that a municipality is taking a position based upon the content of the expression, then the municipality runs afoul of the constitutional safeguards for freedom of speech.  

Mr. Rogers stated that seeing that this area or this flag pole really isn’t a public forum and that there have been efforts to try and preserve the front of the Municipal Building and the flag pole to secure it and keep it from becoming a public forum, the Village Council, back in the fall of 2016, adopted an ordinance that dealt with the aftermath of the 2016 elections and campaign signs. The ordinance adopted included political signs in a category for temporary signs, which restricted all temporary signs from public property. Political signs were placed in the category of temporary signs because the Village Council did not want to discriminate based on content. The Village Council did not want to do anything that would predict or leave a perception that the Village was taking issue with certain things as a result of what the sign was saying. The Village Code indicates that flags can be considered signs, with the exception of the American Flag, State Flag, or any governmental entity flag. The fact that the Village has prohibited temporary signs from public properties would give an objector, someone who may object to the use of the flag pole for a private interest or a private speech expression, a strong, sustainable argument in a court of law. The definition of a politically expressive sign or flag is a sign or flag that is promoting a cause that creates political judgment on someone’s part. This falls under the category of several cases handled by the U.S. Supreme Court, and cited by Mr. Rogers in his memorandum to the Village Councilmembers. The fact that the flag pole has not been used as a political forum, leads to the question of setting a precedent. It can be shown historically that the flag pole has been reserved, and that an effort has been made to keep it from being a public forum that may be in another location within the municipality.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Rogers stated that the law does not prohibit the flying of a political interest flag. However, Mr. Rogers noted that the Village Ordinance makes a strong argument, if someone wanted to challenge it, that a political interest flag, such as the Gay Pride Flag, is not permitted on public property. Councilman Voigt stated that he did not see the Gay Pride Flag as political; he sees it as an expression of inclusiveness and as an example of something the Village should embrace. Mr. Rogers explained that this falls under the position that a municipality should not deal with the content of a sign or flag. Mr. Rogers did not feel that calling the Gay Pride Flag a political sign or a sign that expresses a political interest, taints the position of someone who either supports the position of gay pride or is against it. At the same time, when dealing with these types of expressive positions, it could be called inclusionary; however, this doesn’t matter because the ordinance does not take a position from a content perspective at all. The ordinance takes the position that it is a temporary sign and is to be included in that category of temporary signs that are restricted from public property.

Councilman Sedon stated that the municipality already flies the American Flag, a potent symbol of inclusion, freedom, and justice that is recognized all over the world. The American Flag represents every single American, no matter what race, creed, sexual orientation, religion or lack of religion. Many good people died to preserve this right. Ridgewood is a community of inclusion. Councilman Sedon expressed concerns with setting a precedent and the problems that may arise as more and more groups request the flying of their flag, including being put in the position of choosing which cause or issue is more important than another cause or issue. Mr. Rogers noted that this falls under policy implications, which the Village Council must discuss and determine. Under the Constitution, the protection of free speech does not allow regulation or assignment of groups who can fly or can’t fly their flags.

Councilwoman Walsh pointed out that the Holi Celebration was held on public property and this was an expression of a certain group’s spring festival. A blue line was painted down the street to celebrate the respect the Village has for their police officers. The baseball parade goes down the main street. There are many symbols of other groups around town that are inclusive and she felt the flying of the Gay Pride Flag as a sign of inclusiveness should not be kept from the Village. Councilwoman Walsh did not feel the Gay Pride Flag should be on the same halyard as the American Flag. She suggested placing the Gay Pride Flag on a stand either inside Village Hall or in front of Village Hall, as a great expression of the Village’s inclusiveness.

Councilman Hache noted that this is not any easy topic to discuss as there are legal, practical, and human aspects to it. Councilman Hache stated that as a Hispanic, he is particularly sensitive to the issues of inclusion and equality. When also considering the responsibilities of an elected official, it is incumbent upon all elected officials to be inclusive and never reject, ignore, or single-out any individual group of people. Elected officials are committed to providing an environment of openness and inclusion. In this same spirit, it is important for elected officials not to take a political stand or express a private interest in promoting specific individuals or groups. The Village’s policy of raising the National and State Flags, represents the broader inclusion of all constituents equally. The Gay Pride Flag is considered a private expression, not a public flag. As a community of individuals and businesses, we are more than welcome to fly any banner or flag we support.

Councilman Hache noted that the Holi Celebration was not sponsored by the Village of Ridgewood. This was a group that needed a field for a party and made a request before the Field Committee. There are many groups that are given access to a field if there is an availability. Councilman Hache did not feel that anyone sitting on the dais this evening was against what the Gay Pride Flag represents. However, he questioned what will happen when a group requests to fly their flag, but the elected officials are against what that flag represents.

Mayor Knudsen stated that there is no doubt that the Village Council and the Village of Ridgewood are always in favor of inclusion and find that bias-based incidents or concerns to be deplorable. Mayor Knudsen explained that she cannot consider the level of empathy she feels for all people, while thinking this issue through, legally. Setting aside precedent and setting aside emotions is very difficult. There is law on the books. The ordinance passed by the Village Council mitigated that personal speech must be considered as political speech on government-owned property. Mayor Knudsen expressed a concern that a group may request to fly a flag that represents views that she personally feels to be repugnant. This then becomes suggestive, which creates a problem with saying no. Mayor Knudsen stated that while she would be happy to fly the Gay Pride Flag, she did not feel the Village Council should change the ordinance or violate the ordinance at this point, as it protects everyone and gives everyone equal opportunity under the flying of the American Flag.

Mayor Knudsen thanked the members of the Community Relations Advisory Board of Ridgewood and Glen Rock (CRAB) for their patience.

Mayor Knudsen felt that no other flag should be flown and that the ordinance should be respected. The Village is inclusionary. The Village embraces the LGBT Community and wants everyone to feel at home. Reflecting the Village Councilmembers inclusionary sprit, the Village Council will adopt a proclamation in recognition of June being Gay Pride Month.  

A discussion followed on how to proceed since the Village Ordinance states that political signs are considered temporary signs, and temporary signs are prohibited on public property. Councilman Voigt repeated that he did not see the Gay Pride Flag as political, and that he was in favor of allowing it to fly at the Municipal Building. Mr. Rogers advised the Village Council to take a position on this issue at a later date, either based upon the ordinance or not based upon the ordinance, since there is a split among the Village Councilmembers.

Mayor Knudsen turned the meeting over to Deputy Mayor Sedon and left the meeting at 9:56 p.m.

  1. Parking

                        1.)        Village Hall & Library Parking Lot

Councilman Voigt stated that he asked for this discussion on the Village Hall and Library Parking Lot to be put on tonight’s agenda because there have been several complaints from the library that it is becoming exceedingly difficult for people to park in the lot when sports are taking place. Several suggestions were proposed, including signage clarity and placement, in particular directing parking for Veterans Field to the lot on the other side, which is already designated for it use, and moving some of the children’s afternoon activities to other fields.

Ms. Mailander noted that this parking problem has been an on-going challenge, especially during the spring and summer months. She suggested discussing this issue internally, which would include the Library Director.

Councilman Hache suggested that this issue be put on the Fields Committee agenda for their next meeting in June. He also suggested advising representatives from each of the sport’s organizations to inform parents of the parking restrictions. Ms. Mailander felt that education was key, especially for those who are from visiting teams. Councilman Hache felt this could be accomplished. Ms. Mailander understood that a recent GPS system address update will direct visitors to Veterans Field South instead of Village Hall.

Deputy Mayor Sedon noted that after this issue is discussed internally and after the existing policies are communicated to all the teams, the discussion will be placed back on the Village Council’s agenda.

  1. Budget
  2. Reward of Contract - Firehouse Roof

Ms. Mailander explained that the Village received six bids for the roof replacement at the main firehouse located at 201 East Glen Avenue. There were four nonresponding plan holders. The low bid was received from NDP Construction, LLC, out of Little Silver, New Jersey. The low bidder submitted the majority of the required bid package items, with all necessary information.

The low bidder is new to the Village; however, the Engineering Division is recommending them at a cost of $126,760.

Under questioning by Deputy Mayor Sedon, Village Engineer Christopher Rutishauser explained that there is a separate line item in the proposal for the removal and the reinstallation of the solar panels. NDP Construction, LLC bid $9,440 for the removal of the solar panels and the bid for the reinstallation of the solar panels was $10,560. Both prices are included in the total cost of $126,760.

  1. Award of Contract - Rebid of School Bus Transportation

Ms. Mailander recalled that the only submission received for School Bus Transportation Services during the original bidding process was rejected by the Village Council because it was higher than what was allocated. A rebid was held, and three submissions were received. The low bidder was Durham School Services out of Hawthorne, New Jersey. The Village has a very positive history with this vendor.

  1. Authorize Additional Funding for Special Attorney for RCRD

Ms. Mailander explained that additional money is needed for the services of the RCRD conflict attorney, Peter Scandariato, Esq. The original professional services contract needs to be amended from $25,000 to an amount not to exceed $50,000. Ms. Mailander will speak with Robert Rooney, Ridgewood C.F.O., as well as Mr. Scandariato, to try to determine a final total. The case should be ending shortly.

  1. Award of Contract - Rock Salt

Ms. Mailander explained that this contract is for the purchase of rock salt from the Bergen County Cooperative Purchasing Program, at a cost of $56.86 per ton.

Under questioning by Deputy Mayor Sedon, Ms. Mailander stated that she will find out if there is any rock salt left over from last year. Mr. Rutishauser felt there was some rock salt left over.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Ms. Mailander stated that Ridgewood has a rock salt cost limit of $40,000.

  1. Award Professional Services Contract - Historic Consultant -

                                    Schedler Property

Ms. Mailander explained that the Village needs the services of a historic architectural consultant in order to proceed with Phase I of the Zabriski-Schedler House Stabilization Project. The historic consultant will also be preparing for Phase II, which includes windows, security, fire alarm, heating, air conditioning, wiring, and plumbing, as well as the work needed for the nomination of the house in the National Register of Historic Places. The Village is still waiting to hear if the County Grant was received.   The historic consultant is the same firm the Village used for the train station, Connolly and Hickey Historical Architects. The total cost is not to exceed $50,000.

Ms. Mailander explained that as a result of the “Pay to Play” forms being delayed until after the May 10, 2017 Public Meeting, she is requesting the scheduling of a Special Public Hearing at the May 24, 2017 Work Session to allow this contract to be awarded then instead of waiting until June. The historic consultant is actually in the process of doing work now, because the application for Phase II of the County Grant is due on June 30, 2017.

Councilman Voigt questioned how the upkeep of the Zabriski-Schedler House will be funded over time. He also questioned the purposes for which the house will be used. Ms. Mailander stated that these issues can be placed on a future agenda for discussion.

  1. Policy
  2. Boards and Committees - Structures and By-laws

Ms. Mailander stated that most of the Boards and Committees have submitted their Structures and By-laws. The documents were presented to the Village Councilmembers for their review. The documents will be discussed at a future Village Council meeting and copies will be available at the Village Clerks Office and on the Village website.

  1. Amend Chapter 212 - Parks and Recreation Areas - Prohibition of Dogs in Parks

Ms. Mailander explained that Chapter 212-29 prohibits dogs in the following parks: Citizens Park, Graydon Park, Maple Park, Pleasant Park, Twinney Pond Park, Van Neste Park, and Veteran’s Memorial Field. This amendment will add Irene Habernickel Family Park and the Schedler Park property to the list of parks that prohibit dogs. This section of the Village Code has not been updated in many years, and both of these parks are new to the Village’s park inventory. Within the last year, there have been at least three or four documented instances of dogs being either on-leash or off-leash, where there are children playing in the park or on the playground, and the dog was interacting with the children inappropriately. Last summer, a child was bitten by a dog that was on-leash. Including these two parks in the prohibition of dogs is in the Village’s best interest, so that additional unwelcome encounters between dogs and children or adults do not occur. There are other nearby places for people to allow their dogs to be off-leash, with one location being the dog park at the Wild Duck Pond County Park on East Ridgewood Avenue. This amendment will allow the Village to post signs and enforce the prohibition of dogs in these two parks, as is done at the other parks.

Councilman Hache stated that this amendment was discussed at a recent Parks, Recreation and Conservation Board (PRC) meeting. PRC Board members felt that prohibiting on-leash dogs in parks was too restrictive.

Councilwoman Walsh noted that there is a walking path at Irene Habernickel Family Park. She stated that she was in favor of allowing leashed dog at Irene Habernickel Family Park, as long as the owners pick-up after the dogs.

Deputy Mayor Sedon suggested allowing dogs on passive park lands and not on active sports fields. Mr. Rogers cautioned that the interpretation of this may become problematic, noting that active parklands become passive during the off-season. If a use is going to be restrictive, it should be identified by park or by area.

Ms. Mailander took a consensus of the Village Councilmembers which revealed that all were in favor of allowing leashed dogs in both Irene Habernickel Park and the Schedler Park property.

  1. Operations
  2. County OEM Shared Services Agreement - Borrowing of Equipment

Ms. Mailander explained that in order for the Village to borrow equipment from Bergen County OEM or Bergen County DPW, for both emergency and non-emergency use, the Village must enter into a Shared Services Agreement with the County. The resolution will authorize the Shared Services Agreement and will allow the Village to borrow equipment they either may not have or they need as a result of an equipment breakdown.

  1. Encroachment Agreement Resolution

Ms. Mailander explained that the restaurant called The Office is being renovated and its canopy is proposed to protrude over the sidewalk into the right-of-way of Chestnut Street. The encroachments into the Village right-of-way is minimal. This type of encroachment agreement is a formality. Other right-of-way encroachments have been previously approved by the Village Council for items such as gooseneck lighting and signage.

  1. Amending Chapter 190 - Land Use and Development - Illuminated Signs in the Business District

Ms. Mailander explained that there are two businesses in the CBD that currently have videos running in their storefronts to encourage people to come inside. Currently, there is a restriction in place that mandates the placement of illuminated signs a certain number of feet away from the storefront glass. These two businesses received summonses for noncompliance with this restriction.

Ms. Mailander asked for the Village Councilmembers’ input on allow these type of signs, with guidelines such as requiring the videos to be shown on a television screen. She noted that this may encourage more people to shop locally.

Councilman Hache asked to see the restriction that is already in place. He felt the signs in question were done very tastefully, and he did not want to place an additional burden or restriction on the business community. Councilman Hache also felt it was important to restrict signs that could be considered obnoxious.

Deputy Mayor Sedon noted that the ordinance was written before technology was involved to the point it is involved today. He asked for a policy recommendation to be prepared for the Village Councilmember’s review and further discussion.

Under questioning by Deputy Mayor Sedon, Mr. Rogers stated that in order to suspend the issuance of summonses for this violation, the Village Council will need to adopt a resolution. All Councilmembers agreed with this action and Mr. Rogers stated that he will draft this resolution.

  1. REVIEW OF MAY 10, 2017 REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING

Ms. Mailander stated that next week there will be five proclamations including National Cancer Survivors Day; Emergency Medical Services Week; Proclaim May as Mental Health Month; Proclaim May as Older Americans Month; and Proclaim June as Gay Pride Month. There will be swearing-in of Firefighter Dane Knudsen and a swearing-in of Firefighter Shelby Taylor. There will be a Scoping Hearing on the Green Acres Diversion on South Broad Street.

The following ordinance will be adopted: Establish a CAP Bank.

The 2017 Budget Hearing will be held, which includes an overview of the 2017 Budget; Village Council’s Comments; the Public Hearing on the 2017 Budget; and the consideration of adoption of the 2017 Budget.

Resolutions for Ridgewood Water include: Award Professional Services Contract - Engineering Services for Suez Corrosion Control.

The following ordinances are scheduled for introduction: Amend Chapter 260 - Trees and Shrubs; and Amend Chapter 212 - Parks and Recreation Areas - Prohibition of Off-leash Dogs in Certain Parks.

The scheduled public hearings include: General Capital Ordinance; Water Utility Capital Ordinance; Parking Utility Capital Ordinance; Amend Chapter 265 - Vehicles and Traffic - Parking Restrictions - Bogert Avenue and Cambridge Road; Amend Chapter 265 - Vehicles and Traffic - Parking Restrictions - Pomander Walk; and Construction of Handicapped Ramp at Irene Habernickel Family Park.

Resolutions include: Title 59 Approval - RFP for Parking Kiosk Pilot Program; Designate Graydon Pool - Historic Designation; Authorize Shared Services Agreement - Borrowing of Equipment from the County; Suspension of Ordinance for Certain Illuminated Signs in Retail Establishments; Award of Contract - Firehouse Roof; Award of Contract - Rebid of School Bus Transportation - Day Camp; Authorize Additional Funding for Special Attorney for RCRD Lawsuit; Award of Contract Under County Contract - Rock Salt; Proclaim June 2nd as National Gun Violence Awareness Day; and Authorize Addition of World War I Ridgewood Resident Veteran Killed in Action to Memorial Plaque.

  1. MANAGER’S REPORT

Recycling - Ms. Mailander stated that the Village was able to modify the pricing offered in the contract for recycling disposal. Based on these changes, the maximum exposure and revenue reduction is now $111,398 versus the $115,177 originally calculated. Since current market conditions are more fruitful, the projected revenue for 2017 may drop possibly by $46,158 instead of $70,432. Ms. Mailander thanked the Recycling Division, especially Johanna Luttrell, Recycling Program Aide, for all their hard work.

Graydon Pool Seasonal Badges - Ms. Mailander explained that seasonal badges are available for purchase online from CommunityPass and can be accessed by clicking on the picture of Graydon Pool on the homepage of the Village website. The Graydon Pool Office will also be open Saturday, May 13, 2017 and Saturday, May 20, 2017 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon for walk-in badge sales. Graydon Pool season begins June 3, 2017 from 10:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Important Public Meetings - Ms. Mailander stated that on May 8, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. there will be a Bergen County Freeholders Review of the Recommended 2016 Historic Preservation Trust Fund Grants. Included in this is a recommendation for the Zebriskie-Schedler House Phase I. On May 10, 2017, there will be the Public Hearing for the 2017 Municipal Budget. Budget newsletters explaining the budget arrived in each home yesterday. Also on May 10, 2017, there will be a Scoping Hearing for the Green Acres Diversion Issue, which will legitimize the sale of the South Broad Street Program land. This hearing will be included in the Village Council’s public meeting and the public is invited to comment on this diversion.

Dog Rabies Clinic - Ms. Mailander stated that there will be a free Dog Rabies Clinic at the Recycling Center on East Glen Avenue on May 10, 2017 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Microchipping will be available for the first 75 dogs.

Hazardous Waste Disposal - Ms. Mailander stated that The Bergen County Utilities Authority will be collecting household hazardous waste materials on Saturday, May 13, 2017 at Bergen County Campgaw Reservation in Mahwah, NJ, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., rain or shine. This service is free and county identification is required. Items accepted are car batteries, aerosol cans, fire extinguishers, florescent lightbulbs, propane gas cylinders, kerosene, used motor oil, insecticides, and gasoline.

  1. COUNCIL REPORTS

Financial Advisory Committee (FAC) - Councilman Voigt reported that the FAC met on Monday, May 1st. The FAC is in the process of determining the committee’s goals for the year and these goals should be up on the website shortly. The FAC would like to make a presentation to the Village Council on May 24, 2017 regarding an analysis of fees and fines. This analysis compares how the Village’s fees and fines compare to other municipalities and whether or not the fees and fines are appropriate, related to the cost of administrating them.

Planning Board - Councilman Voigt reported that the Planning Board met on May 2, 2017. The Dayton Broad Street Development Site Plan presentation focused on reviewing the parking and traffic in and around the development. The developers have agreed to update and upgrade the sidewalks, as well as the street in front of the site, including the ramps required under the Americans with Disabilities Act. There will be 187 parking spaces on the site, 53 of which will be unassigned for the 93-unit development. Some of the issues and concerns expressed by the Planning Board members centered around the effect of the development on the East Ridgewood Avenue/Broad Street intersection and the effect of the development and the new garage proposed for the Hudson Street area in terms of pedestrian and traffic safety. The Dayton Broad Street Development is scheduled for a site plan vote on June 20, 2017.

Councilman Voigt stated that there will be another Planning Board meeting on May 16, 2017. The KS Broad Street Development, located at the corner of Broad Street and Franklin Avenue, and a presentation on the Enclave Site Review are on the agenda. There should be a vote on the KS Broad Street Development Site Plan that evening. There are continued concerns regarding the Franklin Avenue/Broad Street intersection all the way down to the intersection at Franklin Avenue and Maple Avenue. These concerns include traffic light upgrades, and the downstream effects of upgrading only one out of the four traffic lights in that particular traffic corridor. The desire is to upgrade all four of these traffic lights. To accomplish this, substantial help is needed from the developer and from Bergen County in order to alleviate pedestrian and traffic safety issues along the Franklin Avenue corridor. This includes developer contributions for traffic light upgrades themselves, both at Franklin Avenue and Broad Street and Franklin Avenue and Maple Avenue. The Planning Board will likely vote on the KS Broad Development Application on May 16, 2017.

Ridgewood Environmental Advisory Committee (REAC) - Deputy Mayor Sedon reported that REAC will be meeting on Tuesday, May 9, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. in the Garden Room.

Shade Tree Commission - Deputy Mayor Sedon reported that the Shade Tree Commission will not be meeting on Tuesday, May 9th. Instead, there will be a lecture on Urban Forestry and Street Trees, which will take place at the Ridgewood Public Library starting at 7:30 p.m. The presenter at this lecture will be Nick Polunin, an Associate Professor in the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources at Rutgers University and a Certified Tree Expert. The discussion will include sustainable tree management and the challenges facing urban trees, including care and maintenance.

Graydon Pool - Deputy Mayor Sedon reported that the April sales for discounted Graydon Pool badges have increased substantially from 2016’s April sales that did not include the discount; from 199 in 2016 to 888 in 2017.

Parks, Recreation and Conservation Board (PRC) - Councilman Hache reminded everyone that tickets are still available for the Party in the Park, the 125th celebration of Ridgewood High School, to be held on May 19, 2017 at Veterans Park. This event is being hosted by the Ridgewood High School Alumni Association and is open to the whole community. There will be dancing and Celebrity DJ Nick Cannon will be there. The next PRC Board meeting will be held on May 23, 2017.

Fields Committee - Councilman Hache stated that the next Fields Committee meeting will be held on June 5, 2017 at 7:30 p.m. at the Stable

Central Business District Advisory Committee - Councilman Hache reported that the next Central Business District Advisory Committee meeting will be held on Thursday, May 4, 2017 at 7:30 p.m. in the Garden Room.

  1. PUBLIC COMMENTS

Deputy Mayor Sedon asked if there were any comments or questions from the public.

Tommy Damiano, 274 South Broad Street, stated that the Broad Street Fair has been postponed and will be rescheduled for either June or July. He is currently working with Ms. Mailander.

Regarding the flying of the Gay Pride Flag, Mr. Damiano reported that, at their April meeting, the Ridgewood Guild voted unanimously to raise the Gay Pride Flag. The members of the Ridgewood Guild suggested buying flags and displaying them in merchants’ windows. A suggestion was also made to fly the Gay Pride Flag for two weeks at Village Hall and two weeks at the park.

Mr. Damiano stated that he was approached last summer about a local merchant reward program that was different from the Municipal Card program presented this evening. He felt that additional research is necessary since there are different programs available. Mr. Damiano did feel this was a good concept and, as the business owner of Mango Jam, he would participate. He pointed out that the Ridgewood Guild already has a card that offers a 10% discount to customers of 53 merchants, and he understood that the Chamber of Commerce also has a rewards card, so something would have to be worked out.

Mr. Damiano stated that he was not in favor of neon signs, backlit signs or televisions up against the windows of businesses in the CBD. Mr. Damiano stated that some of the members of the Ridgewood Guild felt that the Building Department was being too strict regarding what can be put outside of their stores. Eliminating all of the product outside the stores takes away from the charm. Mr. Damiano did not think a flat screen television placed in a storefront window is charming; however, when store owners embellish their facades with some product, it adds to the charm of the Village and entices customers to come into the store. He noted that there is a fine line, as no one wants racks of clothes outside. Mr. Damiano pointed out that the Building Department denied a request from Greenbaum Interiors to hold a tent sale. Mr. Damiano felt that a tent sale at this location, which is not downtown or near the historic district, should not be considered offensive.

Mr. Damiano stated that he was disappointed with the design of the parking garage presented this evening, as he felt it looked too much like a pre-fab parking garage. He preferred the design presented by Desmond.

Mayor Sedon pointed out that the proposal this evening was a starting point to start community discussion on the design of the garage. The garage proposed this evening is not the one that will be built; it will be improved.

Kathryn Schmidt, 123 South Irving Street, stated that she understood concerns regarding the precedent that would be set if the Gay Pride Flag was permitted to be displayed at Village Hall. However, she questioned if this was any different than the Village drawing a blue line down Maple Avenue to recognize police officers. The Rainbow Flag is the symbol of the Gay Pride Movement, and the fact that it is a flag is incidental. Ms. Schmidt pointed out that LGBT colleagues can be fired from their jobs for being gay in 30 states, so the flag is political, in some sense. It is a different kind of statement than reinforcing something that the nation overall already accepts. Ms. Schmidt suggested that the Village needs to be more obvious about supporting inclusion. If more municipalities step-up to say that they support inclusion, it may lead to more State and National support of inclusion and the passing of the Employment Nondiscrimination Act.

Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated his approval of the proposed garage design coming in at a cost of $8million dollars, as opposed to a previous design which came in at a cost of $12.3 million. Mr. Loving expressed a concern that parking revenues will not pay for this entire garage, leaving an additional burden on taxpayers.

Mr. Loving pointed out that the drone-flyover video presentation depicted a number of empty parking spaces, and he questioned the time and date this video was filmed. Mr. Loving stated that he was not convinced of the need for the parking garage and he urged the Village Council to study this issue further.

Mr. Loving urged the Village Council to look at the additional cost per space for the parking garage when the current parking spaces are included in the calculations. It brings the cost from $33,000 per space to $48,000 per space.

Mr. Loving understood that the Graydon Pool membership numbers did not include out-of-town residents and he asked the Village Council to report this number, as well as the total membership count for 2016 at the next meeting.

Tess Giuliani, 174 Union Street, felt that the parking garage presented this evening was unattractive. She described the design of a previously presented parking garage as magnificent.

Mike Velicu, 250 Hope Street, spoke of his observation of vehicles with CBD parking stickers parking on Cottage Place. He urged the Village Council to find ways to communicate, to educate and to enforce employee parking restrictions.

Ms. Mailander stated that she will provide a breakdown of the Graydon Pool membership numbers for 2016 and 2017 for the next meeting.

Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that the drone was flown over the location of the proposed garage on a Tuesday morning at 10:00 a.m./10:30 a.m., which is not the busiest time for the CBD.

Councilman Hache pointed out that the drone was flown during the school system’s spring recess, and that is also a slow time for the CBD.

Councilman Hache stated that looking at the incremental cost, the parking garage price per space is still below what was previously proposed. He noted that the original proposal back in June, 2016 had a proposed cost of $12.3 million for 325 spaces. This structure did not fit on the site and was rejected. The same builder came back with a smaller version that fit on the lot, at a proposed cost of $10.5 million for 240 spaces. The current presentation has a proposed cost of $8 million for 240 spaces, with a proposed cost after aesthetic improvements of $8.6 million. He felt the difference in cost savings makes this design a worthwhile venture to explore.

  1. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION

Deputy Village Clerk Donna Jackson read Resolution #17-125 to go into Closed Session as follows:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Hache, seconded by Councilman Sedon, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Work Session was adjourned at 11:02 p.m.

_____________________________

                                                                                                                     Susan Knudsen      

                                                                                                                           Mayor

_____________________________

            Donna M. Jackson

          Deputy Village Clerk

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A REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY ON WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2017 AT 8:00 P.M.

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

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

Mayor Knudsen led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and held a Moment of Silence for all the men and women serving our nation and all first responders.

  1. ACCEPTANCE OF FINANCIAL REPORTS

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Bills, Claims, and Vouchers, and Statement of Funds on Hand, as of October 31, 2017, be accepted as submitted. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:        None

ABSTAIN:      None

 

  1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Council minutes of May 24, and October 11, 2017, having been reviewed by the Village Council and now available in the Village Clerk’s Office, be approved as submitted. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:        None

ABSTAIN:      None

  1. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

Mayor Knudsen asked if there were any comments from the public.

Rurik Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, thanked the League of Woman Voters for inviting the New Jersey Foundation for Open Government to speak on the Open Public Records Act (OPRA) and Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA). Mr. Halaby stated that transparency reflects honesty. He felt that all records, with some exceptions, should be available to the public. He felt that even draft documents should be made available to the public.

At this point, Mr. Halaby said that it pains him to see what is happening with the Village Council over the last couple of years. Mr. Halaby urged Mr. Rogers to take a lead, since he is beholding to Mr. Halaby, as a Village resident, and not to Mayor Knudsen, as a Mayor. He said that the realizes the pressure individuals come under when a Mayor is as strong and as domineering as this present Mayor, who if people don’t behave themselves and do what she says, they have a “big X” on their backs. Mayor Knudsen called a point of order, stating that this is totally unacceptable, inappropriate, and simply not true. Mayor Knudsen said that there will be no personal attacks at Village Council meetings, and that a professional on the Village’s staff will not be attacked. Mr. Halaby stated that Mayor Knudsen is interfering in his rights to express himself, as he left the podium.

Ketan Patel, 416 Colwell Court, expressed concerns about inadequate sidewalks located primarily on artery roads like West Glen Avenue. He has observed pedestrians, including children, struggling to walk on the heavily trafficked, uneven, hilly roadway. The sidewalks on West Glen Avenue are not wide enough to accommodate a child’s stroller, and are in disrepair. Artery roads provide pedestrian access to the downtown area, and Mr. Patel urged the Village Council to review the possibility of improving and/or connecting the sidewalks on West Glen Avenue. Mr. Patel will e-mail photographs of West Glen Avenue to Mayor Knudsen and Councilwoman Walsh.

There were no further comments from the public at this time, and Mayor Knudsen closed the time for public comment.

  1. PRESENTATION

            Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) to Ridgewood Police Officers

Police Chief Jacqueline Luthcke stated that this presentation is in appreciation of Officer Michael Karcher and Officer Kyle Monton. These Police Officers made the highest number of Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) stops this year. Officer Karcher and Officer Monton were recognized by Mothers Against Drunk Drive (MADD), which was started to help individuals affected by drunk driving accidents. MADD has helped numerous families and has reduced drunk driving deaths, through education and training, by approximately 50% since the organization began in 1980.

There were congratulations and a round of applause from everyone in attendance.

  1. MANAGER’S REPORT

New Parking Allocations - Village Manager Heather Mailander alerted the public to the new parking allocations in the municipal parking lot, located adjacent to Village Hall. Signage has been added to define the allocations, and Ms. Mailander asked everyone to adhere to the rules, as this will benefit everyone’s experience when visiting Village Hall or the Ridgewood Public Library. There are delineated spaces for the playground; for the Parking Enforcement Officers; for short-term visitors to Village Hall; and for visitors to the Library.

Veterans Day - Ms. Mailander noted that Veterans Day is on Saturday, November 11, 2017. In honor of the service of Veterans, American Legion Post #53 will hold a service in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square at 11:00 a.m.

Bergen County Executive James Tedesco and the Board of Chosen Freeholders invite all Bergen County Veterans and Active Duty Military to play a round of golf on any Bergen County golf course, free of charge, on Friday, November 10th or Saturday, November 11th, in recognition of Veterans Day.

In observance of Veterans Day, all Village Hall offices will be closed on Friday, November 10th. Sanitation and recycling will not be picked up on that day, and the Recycling Center will be closed. The Recycling Center will be open on Saturday, November 11th, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

To honor all Ridgewood Veterans, Ms. Mailander read a list of the Village employees serving and protecting our country’s freedom, or who have done so in the past by serving in the Armed Forces:

               James “Jackson” Loney                  SPF 4, US Army                                               Water Pollution Control

               Paul Albanese                                   PFC US Marine Corp                                      Plumbing Inspector

               Michael Cafarelli                                            SP4, US Army                                                  Planning Board Secretary

               Ed Bethune                                        Corporal, US Marine Corp                                            Supervisor of Sanitation

               Thomas Yotka                                  Chief Petty Officer, US Coast Guard           Construction Official

               Justin O’Connor                               Sergeant, US Army                                          Firefighter

               Matt Bombace                                  Sergeant, US Marine Corp                                            Firefighter

               Jason Kane                                        Senior Airman US Air Force                         Firefighter

               Tim Bombace                                    Sergeant, Army National Guard                    Firefighter

               Oscar Martinez                                 CWO2, Army National Guard                       Firefighter

               Chris Meade                                      First Lieutenant, Army National Guard       Firefighter

               Christopher Eidschun                      Petty Officer 2nd Class, US Coast Guard     Firefighter

               Tom Landers                                     2nd Lieutenant, US Air Force                         Recycling

               Glen Ender                                        Petty Officer 3rd Class, US Coast Guard      Police Lieutenant

               Miguel Torres Lopez                       Staff Sergeant, US Marine Corp                    Police Officer

               Hector Perez, Jr.                               Senior Airman, US Air Force                        Police Officer

               Brian Pullman                                   Staff Sargent, US Army                                  Police Officer    

Surplus Vehicle Sales - Ms. Mailander announced that some Village vehicles have been disposed of using the on-line auction site, “Gov Deals”. The Village has a wide range of vehicles for sale and most of them are in medium to poor condition. So far, three vehicles considered in poor condition have been sold, for a total of $6,500.

Leaf Placement Schedule - Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that the yellow postcards with the 2017 leaf placement schedule have been mailed to every household. If you did not receive the yellow postcard, please contact the Village Manager’s Office or go onto the Village website and click on the falling leaf icon. Please put leaves out on the street only on the leaf placement dates for your area.

Central Valet Service - Ms. Mailander stated that the Central Valet Service at Van Neste Square began on Friday, October 27, 2017, and will continue every Friday and Saturday night from 6:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. through December 30, 2017, with the exception of December 1st, which is “Downtown for the Holidays”. It will cost $5.00 per vehicle, and is open to the public. Merchants will be given the choice to validate the cost to their patrons. Ms. Mailander stated that more and more people are using the service, and saying great things about it, especially senior citizens and families with young children, who find it difficult to walk a long distance.

Elder Thanksgiving Dinner - Ms. Mailander announced that a free Elder Thanksgiving Dinner is being offered, including transportation, to senior citizens in Ridgewood. It will take place at the Old Paramus Reformed Church on Sunday, November 12, 2017. Reservations are required. All food, entertainment, and volunteer time are donated for this event.

Community Thanksgiving Service - Ms. Mailander announced that a Community Thanksgiving Service, sponsored by the Ridgewood Interfaith Group, is scheduled for Tuesday, November 21, 2017 at Old Paramus Reformed Church at 7:30 p.m. All are welcome.

Estate Card - Ms. Mailander noted that the Estate Card is now available. The debit-like Estate Card offers property tax savings by purchasing locally, as well as on-line. The Estate Card will generate rewards, which will then reduce the cardholder’s Ridgewood property taxes. An even greater level of reward is offered at certain times by certain merchants. Tax rewards are applied annually to the third quarter tax bill. Cardholders do not have to preload the $800 each month onto the debit card; they simply have to make a transaction at least once every-other-month. Additional information can be found on the Village website and at ridgewoodestatecard.com.

Farmer’s Market - Ms. Mailander announced that the Farmer’s Market will extend their operations through Sunday, November 19, 2017. The Farmer’s Market is held on Sundays from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Ridgewood Train Station Parking Lot.

Hazardous Waste Disposal - Ms. Mailander stated that The Bergen County Utilities Authority will be collecting household hazardous waste materials on Saturday, November 18, 2017 at their facility on Empire Boulevard in Moonachie, New Jersey from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., rain or shine. This service is free and county identification is required. Items accepted are car batteries, paint thinners, aerosol cans, fire extinguishers, fluorescent lightbulbs, propane gas cylinders, kerosene, used motor oil, insecticides, and gasoline.

Village Offices Closed - Ms. Mailander announced that Village Offices will be closed on Thursday, November 23, and Friday, November 24, 2017, in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday.

  1. VILLAGE COUNCIL REPORTS

Planning Board - Councilman Voigt reported that the Planning Board met on Tuesday, November 7, 2017. There were two agenda items discussed. The first agenda item was a minor reconfiguration of lot lines located at 144 North Murray Avenue, which resulted in a diminution of the nonconforming variances, and was approved unanimously. The other agenda item was a major site plan, located at 200/210 South Broad, where there continues to be an issue as it relates to the number of parking spaces. The applicant is planning to provide 10 parking spaces; however, the Planning Board members felt that 30 parking spaces were needed, and asked the applicant to figure out where these additional 20 parking spaces could be located. Two physicians’ offices are proposed for the site. The applicant will be back before the Planning Board on either December 5, 2017 or January 16, 2018. The next Planning Board meeting is scheduled for November 21, 2017.

Elder Thanksgiving Dinner - Councilman Voigt thanked the following sponsors of the Elder Thanksgiving Dinner for their generosity: Ridgewood Parks and Recreation; the Old Paramus Reformed Church; HealthBarn; No Fuss Lunch; Ridgewood Senior Housing; Age Friendly Ridgewood; SHARE; and Whole Food Market.

Shade Tree Commission - Councilman Sedon reported that the Shade Tree Commission put together a great discussion on November 8, 2017 that focused on urban forestry. The discussion was led by Andrew Hillman, an urban forestry expert. Mr. Hillman came to the discussion an hour early to take some Shade Tree Commission members downtown to look at some of the tree wells and offer suggestions to increase the viability of trees planted in the CBD. Councilman Sedon thanked Mr. Hillman and the members of the Shade Tree Commission.

Chamber of Commerce - Councilman Hache reported that he went to the Chamber of Commerce’s monthly meeting on November 8, 2017 and spoke about the discussions held at the November 1, 2017 Village Council meeting regarding modifications that may be necessary to the Zoning Ordinance to encourage redevelopment in the CBD. He stated that the Chamber of Commerce members were in favor of anything that will simplify the Village Code in the B-1 and B-2 zones. The Chamber of Commerce members are pleased with the Site Plan Exemption Committee, and would like it used more often, keeping in mind the balance of uses for any approvals going forward. There was also a discussion on sidewalk decorations, and the Chamber of Commerce members unanimously supported businesses finding unique ways to decorate their storefronts. The Chamber of Commerce members also noted the importance of maintaining enough clearance on the sidewalk for pedestrian safety.

Site Plan Exemption Committee -Mayor Knudsen stated that the Site Plan Exemption Committee (SPEC) met recently. SPEC is a system put in place to simplify the application process at the Planning Board. Mayor Knudsen explained that during the public comment portion of the meeting, someone suggested that the Village Council was “tying the hands” of businesses. Mayor Knudsen pointed out that the Village Council’s efforts have been pointed toward simplifying the Village Code and to allow businesses to have more opportunities.

Special Projects Task Force - Mayor Knudsen stated that the Special Projects Task Force met on November 6, 2017. Deputy Mayor Sedon was also at the meeting. The Special Projects Task Force has been broken into two groups. The first group is continuing their detailed study of the energy costs throughout the Village. It is a daunting task; however, the Special Projects Task Force is moving along at an amazing pace. A full report should be available shortly. The second group is conducting a detailed analysis of traffic studies done over the last four or five years within the Village to see if there are any discrepancies or similarities. The group’s findings will then be forwarded to the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee.

Interfaith Community - Mayor Knudsen reported that the Interfaith Community met on November 7, 2017. Mayor Knudsen attended this meeting, and advised the members about what is before the Planning Board regarding housing, development project initiatives, and happenings around the Village. As always, the Interfaith Community was sensitive and thoughtful with all of their comments, and will continue to work on behalf of the Village, as a whole. There was also a discussion about future candlelight vigils and how best to handle those with so many things going on in the country and the world. One suggestion was made to hold a Village-wide Moment of Silence.

Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) - Mayor Knudsen reported that the HPC’s next meeting will be on November 9, 2017 in the Garden Room at Village Hall at 7:30 p.m.

Master Plan Subcommittee - Mayor Knudsen announced that a Request for Proposal (RFP) has been executed for a visioning process. Once the RFP responses are returned, the Master Plan Subcommittee members will be better able to understand how to approach the visioning process, which is a community-wide effort to better understand the future of the Village and what people expect the Village to look like in the future. The next Master Plan Subcommittee meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 21, 2017 at 6:30 p.m.

  1. ORDINANCES - RIDGEWOOD WATER

There were no ordinances for introduction and there were no public hearings on ordinances for Ridgewood Water.

  1. RESOLUTIONS - RIDGEWOOD WATER

THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 17-331 THROUGH 17-335 WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. ORDINANCES
  2. INTRODUCTION - #3623 - Amend Chapter 265 - Vehicles and Traffic - Establish Stop Signs at Cliff Street and First Street

Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of Ordinance 3623. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:        None

ABSTAIN:      None

The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3623 by title:

            AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE             OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-59, SCHEDULE             IX “STOP INTERSECTIONS” AND AT SECTION 265-60, SCHEDULE X “YIELD             INTERSECTIONS”

Councilwoman Walsh moved that Ordinance 3623 be adopted on first reading and that December 13, 2017 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:        None

ABSTAIN:      None

  1. INTRODUCTION - #3624 - Amend Chapter 265 -Vehicles and Traffic - Establish Stop Signs at Various Locations at Intersections with West End Avenue

Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of Ordinance 3624. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:        None

ABSTAIN:      None

The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3624 by title:

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

Councilman Hache moved that Ordinance 3624 be adopted on first reading and that December 13, 2017 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:        None

ABSTAIN:      None

  1. INTRODUCTION - #3625 - Amend Chapter 190 - Land Use and Development - Allow Certain Illuminated Interior Signs in the Central Business District

Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of Ordinance 3625. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:        None

ABSTAIN:      None

The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3625 by title:

            AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 190 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE             OF RIDGEWOOD AT SECTION 122 (E) ENTITLED “SIGNS IN THE B-1, B-2 AND    C DISTRICTS”, TO CREATE A NEW SUBSECTION 190-122 E (7) ENTITLED             “INTERIOR DISPLAYS”, AND AMEND SECTION 190-3 ENTITLED             “DEFINITIONS” AS IT PERTAINS TO “SIGN” AND ADD A NEW DEFINITION OF       “INTERIOR DISPLAY”

Councilwoman Walsh moved that Ordinance 3625 be adopted on first reading and that December 13, 2017 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:        None

ABSTAIN:      None

  1. PUBLIC HEARING - #3618 - Supervisors Salary Ordinance

Mayor Knudsen moved the second reading of Ordinance 3618 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:        None

ABSTAIN:      None

The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3618 by title:

            AN ORDINANCE TO FIX A SALARY, WAGE, OR COMPENSATION OF AND FOR    THE SUPERVISORY EMPLOYEES OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD,             COUNTY OF BERGEN, AND STATE OF NEW JERSEY

Mayor Knudsen announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:        None

ABSTAIN:      None

Councilman Sedon moved that Ordinance 3618 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:        None

ABSTAIN:      None

  1. PUBLIC HEARING - #3619 - Non-Union Salary Ordinance

Mayor Knudsen moved the second reading of Ordinance 3619 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:        None

ABSTAIN:      None

The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3619 by title:

            AN ORDINANCE TO FIX SALARIES, WAGES, AND OTHER COMPENSATION OF       NON-UNION EMPLOYEES OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, COUNTY OF             BERGEN AND STATE OF NEW JERSEY FOR THE YEAR 2017

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

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:        None

ABSTAIN:      None

Councilman Sedon moved that Ordinance 3619 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:        None

ABSTAIN:      None

  1. PUBLIC HEARING - #3620 - Management Salary Ordinance

Mayor Knudsen moved the second reading of Ordinance 3620 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:        None

ABSTAIN:      None

The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3620 by title:

            AN ORDINANCE TO FIX SALARIES, WAGES, AND OTHER COMPENSATION             AND TO ESTABLISH THE “EMPLOYEE AGREEMENT” OF CERTAIN NON-            UNION OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD,             COUNTY OF BERGEN AND STATE OF NEW JERSEY FOR THE YEAR 2017

Mayor Knudsen announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:        None

ABSTAIN:      None

Councilman Voigt moved that Ordinance 3620 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:        None

ABSTAIN:      None

  1. PUBLIC HEARING - #3621 - Amend Chapter 265 - Vehicles and Traffic - South Hillside Place

Mayor Knudsen moved the second reading of Ordinance 3621 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:        None

ABSTAIN:      None

The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3621 by title:

            AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE             OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-52, SCHEDULE             II: “MIDBLOCK CROSSWALKS” AND SECTION 265-65, SCHEDULE XV:             “PARKING PROHIBITED AT ALL TIMES” AND SECTION 265-67, SCHEDULE             XVII: “PARKING PROHIBITED CERTAIN HOURS” AND SECTION 265-69,             SCHEDULE    XIX: “TIME LIMIT PARKING”

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

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:        None

ABSTAIN:      None

Councilman Hache moved that Ordinance 3621 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:        None

ABSTAIN:      None

  1. PUBLIC HEARING - #3622 - Amend Chapter 265 - Vehicles and Traffic - Establish Stop Signs at Hope Street and Gilbert Street

Mayor Knudsen moved the second reading of Ordinance 3622 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:        None

ABSTAIN:      None

The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3622 by title:

            AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE             OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-59, SCHEDULE             IX “STOP INTERSECTIONS” AND AT SECTION 265-60, SCHEDULE X “YIELD             INTERSECTIONS”

Mayor Knudsen announced that the Public Hearing was open.

Kimberly Kent, 365 Gilbert Street, thanked the Village Council for reading the many emails sent by residents and hearing their concerns about the safety of their street corner. Over the last two years, there have been two serious accidents at that corner. Ms. Kent explained that she requested a stop sign be put on Gilbert Street in 2000; however, a yield sign was put there instead, and she never followed through. Ms. Kent pointed out the residents of Gilbert Street, who were in the audience, who are in support of a stop sign on the street. People use Gilbert Street to cut off Maple Avenue, and the vehicles travel very fast, creating a dangerous situation. Children play on Gilbert Street. She again thanked the Village Council for their consideration in replacing the yield sign with a stop sign.

Kelly Brandt, 366 Gilbert Street, felt replacing the yield sign with a stop sign was a responsible action. This intersection is located within the route her son walks to school. Ms. Brandt expressed her appreciation on behalf of the safety of her family and the residents of Gilbert Street.

Rance Johansson, 371 Gilbert Street, explained that people use Gilbert Street as a cutoff from Maple Avenue. Vehicles stop at the stop sign at Spring Avenue, but not on Gilbert Street. Mr. Johansson’s family was in one of the car accidents. He thanked the Village Council for considering this ordinance.

Lisette Ramos, 351 Gilbert Street, stated that her sons, as well as many other young children, walk to school and play on Gilbert Street. For the safety of these children, Ms. Ramos urged the Village Council to approve this ordinance replacing the yield sign with a stop sign.

Eric Jones, 365 Gilbert Street, stated that he has seen many vehicles go through the intersection as if the yield sign wasn’t there. There are many families living on Gilbert Street. Mr. Jones spoke of an accident at this intersection which resulted in an overturned vehicle. Mr. Jones urged that stop signs be placed on both of the intersecting streets.

Mayor Knudsen thanked the residents of Gilbert Street for being proactive and bringing this issue to the attention of the Village Council.

There being no other comments from the public, Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:        None

ABSTAIN:      None

Councilwoman Walsh moved that Ordinance 3622 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:        None

ABSTAIN:      None

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Ms. Mailander explained that it takes 20 days for the ordinance to be effective. The stop sign will be installed sometime after November 28, 2017.

  1. RESOLUTIONS

 

THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 17-336 THROUGH 17-364, WITH THE EXCEPTION OF RESOLUTION #17-360, WHICH HAS BEEN REMOVED FROM THE AGENDA, WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 17-365 THROUGH 17-367, WERE CONSIDERED SEPARATELY AND WERE READ IN FULL BY THE VILLAGE MANAGER/VILLAGE CLERK:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

Mayor Knudsen asked if there were any comments from the public.

Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, expressed a concern with Resolution #17-337, which approved the sum of $26,000 to be turned over to the Treasurer of the Village of Ridgewood to become part of the general municipal revenue for 2017, as a result of a tax lien that had not been redeemed within five years of the date the property was sold. Mr. Loving questioned why it took five years to turn this money over to the Village. He also noted that the on-line tax records indicate that the property was last sold in 1990, when the resolution indicates that the property was sold in 2012. Mr. Loving asked the Village Manager to find out this information for him.

Saurabh Dani, 390 Bedford Road, noted that the plans for the parking garage were approved first, before the RFP went out to bidders. He cited two other instances when the RFP was sent out to bidders before the plans were approved by the Village Council; the firehouse roof replacement and the planting of trees within the Village. Mr. Dani wanted to bring this to the Village Council’s attention, as it suggests that specifications could be designed to get a particular company to bid.

In response to Mr. Loving’s question regarding the tax lien redemption, Mr. Rogers said that he will look into this issue. He explained that the process works with adjusting and perfecting liens, as a result of nonpayment of taxes. It does not necessarily deal with the amount; it deals with the number of quarters the property owner is behind in terms of taxes, which is why it seems to have taken some time. Ms. Mailander added that Resolution #17-337 is allowing the Village to deposit the money into the General Fund Budget, because the property was purchased in 2012 as a lien and it hasn’t been redeemed. When a lien hasn’t be redeemed, there is a five-year waiting period before the money can be deposited into the General Fund Budget. The fact that the house was last sold in 1990 has nothing to do with the lien against the unpaid taxes. The lien against the unpaid taxes was purchased by a third party.

In response to Mr. Dani’s comments, Ms. Mailander explained that Title 59 approval is not for the RFP. Title 59 approval deals with the protection that the Village has based on the RFP; it does not authorize the RFP to go out. Title 59 approval protects the Village against errors in the specifications.

Councilman Sedon added that the tree planting program is new this year. This year, when streets are paved, trees are being planted in a spot where a tree can fit or in a spot where a tree was taken down several years ago. This is due to the fact that this year, the planting of the trees was included in the bid for the paving contract. Unfortunately, the contractor awarded the paving bid did not want to plant the trees, so the Village went out and received three separate quotes from other bidders, with the lowest one being in line with the normal cost for this type of work. The money for planting the trees was already in the paving budget, which allows the Village to plant the trees at this time.

Mayor Knudsen further explained that the RFP for the garage was very different, because it was such a big issue that the Village Council brainstormed over and then put all their ideas together. Mayor Knudsen appreciated Mr. Dani’s comments, and she will look into having all bids and bidders listed on the Village website for the public’s information. This information will also be included in all resolutions. Mr. Rogers pointed out that the Village Council does have this information before approving an RFP, which addresses Mr. Dani’s concern that specifications could be designed to get a particular company to bid.

  1. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION

Ms. Mailander read Resolution #17-368 to go into Closed Session as follows:

  1. ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Sedon, seconded by Councilwoman Walsh, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Regular Public Meeting was adjourned at 9:02 p.m.

                                                                                                _____________________________

                                                                                                               Susan Knudsen      

                                                                                                                    Mayor

_____________________________

            Heather A. Mailander

   Village Manager/Village Clerk

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