SPECIAL PUBLIC BUDGET 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 MARCH 15, 2017 AT 5:30 P.M.

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

Mayor Knudsen called the meeting to order at 5:36 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; Donna Jackson, Deputy Village Clerk; and Robert Rooney, CFO.

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.

2. PUBLIC COMMENTS

Mayor Knudsen asked if there were any comments by the public and there were none.

3. DISCUSSION ITEMS
4. Review of Departmental Budgets
5. Municipal Court

Maria Doerr, Municipal Court Administrator, reported that the Municipal Court Budget was down over last year, due to programs such as E-tickets which reduced printing costs, and the replacement of a retirement with a managerial position, which now includes attendance at court sessions in the salary, reducing overtime costs.

Ms. Doerr listed the 2017 goals of the Municipal Court. The Municipal Court has purchased a screen for use during court sessions from Drinking While Intoxicated (DWI) money. Out of the four categories in New Jersey, which include parking tickets, code enforcement tickets, traffic tickets and DWI’s, the Ridgewood Municipal Court is below both the State and County averages for time spent clearing these cases. As an example, Ms. Doerr stated that the average time to clear a DWI case is 160 days statewide and 175 days countywide, compared to the average time in Ridgewood, which is 110 days. Ms. Doerr noted that this indicates that the overall health of this department is very good. Ms. Doerr continued to explain that case management is linked to justice at every step of the process. The Municipal Court has a very firm adjournment policy and the judge keeps cases on track. The Municipal Court is exempt from the Open Public Records Act (OPRA) and is under Supreme Court Rule, so the Municipal Court handles its own records requests. The department is getting inundated with requests from due diligence companies; however, they are still able to have a 24-hour turn-around, largely due to replacing the retired position with a Deputy Court Administrator, who is doing a great job.

Ms. Doerr noted that one of the Municipal Court’s goals for 2017 is to have a better flow on court night so people are more comfortable knowing where they need to be and what to expect.  

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Ms. Doerr explained that OPRA costs are not a budgeted item because, unlike the Village Clerk’s Office, most of the Municipal Court’s record requests can be filled in a matter of minutes. This is because the Municipal Court is automated through the State. It is not as labor intensive when compared to what is involved in the Village Clerk’s Office, where the staff must retrieve records from other departments, and wait for responses.  

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Ms. Doerr explained that summonses issued for ancillary items such as leaves, fall under the category entitled, “FC and Criminal”. “FC” stands for First of the Form of Complaint. Ms. Doerr explained that the higher amounts of summonses occur in months with leaves, snow, and excess water usage. If these types of summonses were not collected, revenue would decrease, but the Operating Budget would not be impacted.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Ms. Doerr recalled that the spike in summonses in July and August of 2016 was the result of an initiative with A-frame signs and outdoor dining, as well as water fines. Ms. Doerr stated that she will prepare a breakdown of code violations and present it to Robert Rooney C.F.O., who will forward it to Ms. Mailander and the Village Council.

Referring to the budget item entitled, “Monies Collected: State, County and Village”, Councilman Voigt asked if the Village receives any reimbursements for the work involved in collecting money for the State and County. Ms. Doerr explained that money collected for the State under this budget item includes approximately $6.00 or $7.00 of per-ticket revenue sent out to special interest groups such as autism, body armor, or brain injury research. Other violations, such as overdue inspection or weight violations are sent to the State. Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) funds, Drug Enforcement Funds, State Lab fees, the Pedestrian Safety Fund, and the Uninsured Motorists Funds are also part of the funds collected for the State. Ms. Doerr recalled that there was a $6.00 increase in overtime parking fines last year to compensate for the cost of the legislative assessments, such as DNA and Body Armor.

2. Building Department

The Director of the Building Department, Thomas Yotka, reported that the 2017 Building Department Budget is reduced from 2016. New personnel were added in 2016. New procedures were implement in 2016, including the adoption of several ordinances dealing with the Central Business District (CBD), which improved code enforcement in areas of outdoor dining and A-frame signs.

Mr. Yotka explained that one of the biggest challenges being faced is a proposal from the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) to modify what is considered minor work or ordinary repairs. There is a possibility this could impact the way building department business is conducted throughout the State of New Jersey.  

Mr. Yotka addressed professional development. The Building Department staff has attained more than 100 hours of required administrative and technical training in 2016. The cost for this training is included in the budget; however, it is a minimal cost, as the DCA seminars are free-of-charge.

Mr. Yotka stated that one of the initiatives last year, as a result of the State’s drought conditions, was how the Building Department interacted with the Water Department on enforcement.

Mr. Yotka stated that one of last year’s improvements included the hiring of a full-time Electrical Inspector, who also holds a Building License. The anticipated retirement of one Electrical Inspector and the unexpected resignation of the other Electrical Inspector required the use of a third-party agency. Extended hours were added through the transition period, which allowed the Building Department to maintain their level of service until the new full-time Electrical/Building Inspector was hired in July, 2016. Currently, the Building Department has 6 full-time and 3 part-time employees. The Zoning Board of Adjustment’s staffing level remains at one employee, who is the Board Secretary.

Mr. Yotka referred the Village Councilmembers to a document detailing the activity that transpired within the department in 2016, which he described as a very active year. He stated that the same results are anticipated for 2017.

Mr. Yotka stated that the Building Department’s objectives for 2017 include modifying and improving the way Board of Adjustment cases are handled. One example is to create a new Zoning Permit Application Form, modify the Zoning Board Application, and create checklists and instructions. These modifications are contingent upon modifying the Zoning Ordinance Fee Schedule. Another objective is purchasing two or three vehicles. The current fleet is old and in dire need of replacement. The Building Department will be receiving two recycled police cars later this year.

Under questioning by Councilman Sedon, Mr. Yotka understood that the new technology implemented last year reduced the budget, because it cut down on personnel hours. Mr. Yotka noted that the new technology included the Citizens Portal, and his department will continue their efforts to advertise this technology. Requests for inspections and permits have been received through the Citizens Portal.

Noting that the Building Department’s revenue is tied in with the economy, Councilman Sedon asked for Mr. Yotka to describe the impact to his department in the event of a downturn. Mr. Yotka stated that since the Federal Government raised interest rates, the department may experience a slow-down. Mr. Yotka pointed out that the months of June, October and December 2016 finished as the highest months for permit activity. There are currently approximately 24 cases to be heard before the Zoning Board of Adjustment. Mr. Yotka projected that the department should maintain, at a minimum, the 2016 permit activity and revenue.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Yotka stated that the hiring of a full-time Zoning Officer is in the Board of Adjustment’s Budget.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Yotka explained that the current Zone Fee Schedule charges a flat fee of $50 for a zoning review. He proposes to modify this fee to reflect a graduated fee schedule that fits in with surrounding municipalities. The fees will be based on the amount of work needed for review. For example, a shed should have a lower fee than an extensive backyard renovation, which should have a higher fee. Mr. Yotka will come before the Village Council sometime around May, 2017 to discuss a change in the fee ordinance.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Yotka explained that, ideally, the Building Department would like to purchase new vehicles, possibly SUV’s, for economic reasons. One of the current vehicles has been serviced many times and another vehicle had a carbon monoxide leak inside the cabin. The best serviceable vehicle is the pick-up truck.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Yotka confirmed that seven Board of Adjustment applications were flatly denied.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Yotka explained that once an inspection request is received, it is normally filled within 24 hours. The biggest challenges are in plumbing, as the inspector is a part-time employee, as well as challenges due to weather related delays.

Referring to the proposal from the DCA to modify the Uniform Construction Code (UCC), Mayor Knudsen pointed out that the Village Council submitted a resolution of opposition, and she asked if anything further needed to be done to reaffirm this position. Mr. Yotka noted that other municipalities also oppose these modifications. He explained that, from his perspective, the current proposal is far better than the original proposal; however, municipalities may still be faced with a significant impact on the way building departments conduct business.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Yotka explained that the Zoning Permit Application Form is proposed to be standardized and a fee schedule is proposed to be created, which will include instructions.

At Mayor Knudsen’s request, Mr. Yotka stated that he will submit a breakdown of who is using the Citizens Portal (residents versus contractors) and how it compares to the traditional request process.

3. Emergency Medical Services (EMS)

Tony Lillo, Chief of EMS, was present. Chief Lillo explained the 2016 highlights and accomplishments of EMS, including the fact that EMS answered 1,796 calls; 1,588 of which were EMS calls and 208 of which were Special Operations Calls. Ridgewood EMS is the largest staffed Public Safety Agency in the Village, and has the lowest Public Safety budget, as a result of a strong volunteer force. Last year, EMS billing exceeded their budget request by almost $79,000, which was applied to the Capital Budget for the purchase of a new, $161,500 vehicle. Chief Lillo explained that Ridgewood EMS works hand-in-hand with the Police, Fire, Signal, Water and DPW Departments, performing services such as manpower for road closures or traffic detail as well as providing lighting. There have been no major increases in the budget between 2014 and 2016. The amount of volunteer hours served in response to calls in 2016 were 20,518 hours. Volunteers also work additional hours attending planning meetings. Ten new volunteers joined the force in 2016 and are either riding as full members or completing their training.

Chief Lillo described the goals and challenges for 2017, which included recruitment. As of January 1^st, 3 new applications have already been received. Chief Lillo explained that the EMS income is based mostly on Medicare/Medicaid reimbursement. These charges are set by the government and are approximately $324 per call. For private insurance companies, Ridgewood EMS currently charges the lowest cost in the area; $550 per call and $10 per loaded mile, with no charge for oxygen. If this cost increased to $725 per call and $15 per loaded mile and a $50 oxygen charge, (which is more in line, but still less than other municipalities and private ambulance services) an estimated $52,000 of additional income could be realized. Chief Lillo will work with Ms. Mailander and Mr. Rooney to work on increasing charges.

Chief Lillo stated that the department fleet is aging. The Capital Budget is proposed to include additional monies for a new ambulance to replace a 10-year-old ambulance that has 130,000 engine idle miles on it. Diesel engines last longer, but the transmissions do not last as long as standard engines. Chief Lillo explained that purchasing last year’s specialty vehicle from a state contractor, HGHC, resulted in a savings of $40,000 and, if approved, the new ambulance will be purchased from a state contractor, as well.

Chief Lillo stated that his officers are interested in taking on more management responsibilities. Chief Lillo also stated that many of the challenges he faced in 2016 were the result of him being a first-year chief. Chief Lillo noted that calls in 2017 are lower than usual.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Chief Lillo explained that the reason billing didn’t increase over the years was a concern that residents would resist calling for an ambulance if they felt they would be billed for the service. Chief Lillo stated that, in the past, when a resident advised him that they could not afford the charge, it was removed. Chief Lillo felt that now was the time to look into this issue and move forward with it, citing inflation.

Councilwoman Walsh felt the addition of 10 more volunteers and the performance of over 20,000 volunteer hours is incredible in a municipality the size of Ridgewood. Chief Lillo stated that at times, there is even a volunteer waiting list. The Village also has a Junior Corps.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Chief Lillo explained that members interested in managerial positions within the department work on planning for special events and additional calls, and work on administrative items, such as budget planning.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Chief Lillo said he found out about the State Contract for vehicle purchases last year, from the Ridgewood Fire Chief. At first, Chief Lillo was concerned that they could not supply the desired equipment, but after inquiries were made, he was pleasantly surprised.

Councilman Sedon commended Chief Lillo on the work his department does to hold down the Village’s overall overtime costs.

Under questioning by Councilman Sedon, Chief Lillo explained that the $161, 000 in last year’s Capital Account covered incidental equipment and the $150,000 expense for the new vehicle. The $79,000 received from EMS billing was put toward this expense. In 2017, the Capital Budget is a little higher. Chief Lillo pointed out that the department maintains 30+ defibrillators throughout the Village, which takes a lot of time and maintenance. It is also costly, with a replacement battery costing $400. The department keeps the inventory updated by ordering 4 or 5 new defibrillators every year.

Councilman Voigt thanked Chief Lillo for the positive impact his department has on the Village.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Rooney explained that excess surplus revenue from EMS goes into the General Fund.

Councilman Voigt felt that the rates being charged for ambulance services are very low. Chief Lillo confirmed that approximately 90% of the patients the department transports are covered by Medicare/Medicaid, with some having secondary insurance. Most patients are age 65 and over.

Councilman Voigt questioned whether Ridgewood competes with the private ambulance services offered by Valley Hospital. Chief Lillo explained that an agreement with Valley Hospital stipulates that any call where the Valley Hospital Medics are dispatched and treat a patient, and Ridgewood EMS transports that patient, Ridgewood EMS gets a portion of the charge directly from Valley Hospital.   Councilman Voigt agreed that it was time to raise the rates and he offered to work with Chief Lillo, as he has experience in this field.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Chief Lillo stated that residents do not receive a bill for any remaining balance after insurance. Even if the rates were increased, residents would not be affected.

Mayor Knudsen thanked the Ridgewood Fire Department and Ridgewood EMS for attending Super Science Saturday and noted that these departments had the most active tables at the event.

4. Office of Emergency Management (OEM)

Jeremy Kleiman, Emergency Management Coordinator, was present to discuss the OEM budget. Mr. Kleiman described the highlights from 2016. OEM has almost completed outfitting a 16 foot shelter trailer. The trailer is currently parked on the side of the Emergency Services building on Douglas Place. It may need to be moved in the future. OEM supplies were moved from the EMS Department’s upper garage into the trailer.     The shelter trailer will be able to support approximately 50 residents and will include cots and bedding, ready-to-eat meals, water and sanitary supplies in groups of 10. The shelter trailer can be loaned out to other municipalities or the county.

Mr. Kleiman explained that the transition to a new lightning detection system is almost complete. The previous system was a radio frequency based system; the new technology is IP based and 8 out of the 9 locations are now on the new system. The remaining location is Maple Field and capital funding is being requested this year to complete the upgrade. Mr. Kleiman thanked the Board of Education and Superintendent of Schools Dr. Daniel Fishbein, for providing capital funds toward this upgrade. Mr. Kleiman noted that the Village will now be able to terminate the service contract on the old system, which will result in an annual savings of approximately $4,300.

Mr. Kleiman stated that a Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) is complete. This document is a blueprint on how to operate Village Government if the physical structures are not available; technology cannot be accessed; documents cannot be accessed; or all personnel are incapacitated. A COOP is not a public document. Mr. Kleiman questioned whether the Village had any data recovering procedures in place, and Ms. Mailander stated that Dylan Hansen, Director of IT, will address this issue.

Mr. Kleiman stated that every four years, a municipality must recertify the existing Emergency Operations Plan. This document is submitted to the County for approval and it is then forwarded to the State Police for certification. The current plan has been approved, and will allow the Village to seek FEMA reimbursement when an emergency is declared in the Village or in the State of New Jersey.

Mr. Kleiman spoke of the OEM goals for 2017, which include completing the upgrade to the lightning detection system; replacing the conference room tables and chairs in the OEM Operations Center; upgrading and bringing the OEM website back on-line and making it more interactive; and improving the Swift Reach Emergency Communications System to allow for the easier import of e-mail data bases. Mr. Kleiman also spoke of the importance of capturing the cell phone numbers of every resident, which will allow for effective communication through text messaging.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Kleiman explained that people are sometimes hesitant to give out their cell phone number, because they are concerned that it will be used for non-emergency communications, which is not the case. Other people expressed concern that this will incur additional data costs.

A discussion was held on the difficulties with entering data information into the Swift Reach System. Dylan Hansen, System Administrator, explained that a great deal of data needs be inputted in order to be registered with the system. If information is entered incorrectly, duplicates are created. He noted that the Water Database and the County Database have been linked to this system; however, in order to add e-mail addresses, residents must enter this information manually into the portal located on the Village website.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Kleiman stated that from a resource staffing standpoint, OEM is limited, and this is a great concern for him. The OEM Director and Deputy Director’s positions are part-time. There are also three volunteers; but their outside responsibilities as a 911 dispatcher, a nurse, and a paramedic would not allow them to be available in the event of a large incident. In terms of clerical work, EMS shares its part-time administrative assistant with OEM. Mr. Hansen assists with technology related issues. Mr. Kleiman felt that the responsibilities and expectations of OEM in a municipality the size of Ridgewood suggest that it should be a full-time position.

Mayor Knudsen spoke of a problem with residents not receiving Reverse 911 calls regarding the recent snowstorm.   Mr. Kleiman explained that the Swift Reach Database consists substantially of Verizon subscribers. It does not consist of residents who have a phone number through the internet or cable service. Mr. Kleiman furthered explained that the current database is a combination of information obtained from the county data base, the Water Utility data base and the Village website portal and is imperfect. Mr. Hansen added that another problem arises when people move out of Ridgewood and transfer their home phone numbers to their cell phones. However, continuous updating has resulted in a much more accurate list of 9,000 phone numbers, versus 14,000 phone numbers with only 50% being accurate.

Mayor Knudsen suggested connecting all public safety websites into one master website. Mr. Hansen agreed that this made sense.

5. Tax Assessor

Michael Barker, Ridgewood Tax Assessor, was present. Mr. Barker explained that his position within the Village is a statutory position, with a great deal of the activity being dictated by State Law. Staying within these guidelines, the Tax Assessor’s Office makes a positive impact on the community by providing data to those who need it, including residents, professionals such as realtors or contractors, and other Village departments. A great deal of information can be obtained from the Tax Assessor’s Office website and it is constantly being updated. Volume is predicated on the strength of the economy.

Mr. Barker explained that the trend over the last couple of years indicates an increase in property values. Certain aspects of the market are still struggling and some bounce back sooner than others. This is indicated in the volume of tax appeals that have been filed, which have been coming down. These tax appeals take at least one year to be put on the court schedule and can take up to six years to get through the courts. To limit the impact on the budget, Mr. Barker worked with Mr. Rooney to codify reporting procedures involved, from a best practice standpoint. The bigger concern comes from appeals from large commercial uses, which does not impact Ridgewood to the same extent as other municipalities that have high-value properties located on highways.

Mr. Barker stated that the Tax Assessor’s Office has a minimum operating budget. It covers costs such as a statutory mailing notifying every taxpayer of the total of their tax assessment for the current year and previous year, as well as their rights, as far as a tax appeal. Another cost is for appraisal fees, which is in conjunction with tax appeals. This does not occur frequently, but Mr. Barker stated that there are cases pending where an appraisal will be needed. One case in particular will take the majority of the budgeted funds in 2017. Mr. Barker explained that later in the year, the Tax Assessor’s Office will develop a Request for Proposal (RFP) for professional appraisal services, which will allow for better cost control.

Mr. Barker pointed out that he included a lot of data in the packet he distributed to the Village Councilmembers, which includes the volume and tax dollar amounts collected over the years, as well as information concerning tax appeals.

Councilman Hache expressed a concern with the viability of certain businesses, particularly retailers, independent of how well the overall economy is doing. This is of concern now, due to the many empty storefronts within the Village. He asked if there was a way to determine the correlation between the closed store fronts and the success of tax appeals. Mr. Barker explained that retail real estate values are determined by their rental values. For example, if a business fails and it is putting pressure on the landlord to reduce his rates, this can impact an evaluation. Under court-established guidelines, a storefront vacancy rate is allowed, so the valuation of that property for taxation purposes is not as impacted as is the well-being of the community. This is because the community’s well-being can be negatively impacted by having less people coming to the CBD.

Councilwoman Walsh noted that the last property revaluation was in 2008 and the last property value assessment was in 2013. She questioned whether Mr. Barker felt another may be needed. Mr. Barker explained that the tax ratio of assessed value to market value is holding steady. This year it is at 89%; last year it was at 90% and the previous year it was at 92%. Mr. Barker did not anticipate that another revaluation would be needed in the near future unless the economy drops considerably. He noted that only 10% of the tax base is commercial.

Councilman Sedon asked Mr. Barker to comment on the housing market in Ridgewood coming out of the recession of 2008-2009. Mr. Barker explained that today’s buyers seem to be spending a lot of money on move-in-ready, quality homes, and this is where the biggest rebound is being seen. The prices of these homes range from $700,000 to $1.2 million. Ridgewood is also seeing an increase as a result of the tear-down trend that is being experienced in the lower part of the market. Ridgewood is only minimally affected by the foreclosure market.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Rooney explained that the line item “Additional Taxes from Added Assessments” goes into Surplus Funds. This figure represents the monies collected from added assessments on homes in the prior year, which goes into surplus funds for the current year. This amount may affect the amount of property taxes collected.

Councilman Voigt asked Mr. Barker to comment on the footnote in the budget that mentioned the possibility of a tax appeal involving the Valley Hospital’s main campus. Mr. Barker explained that the risk involves legal fees incurred by the Village. It does not affect the budget at this time.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Barker explained that the 177 pending tax appeals are from prior years, with the majority being from 2014-2016. Mr. Rooney explained that if the Village loses an appeal, the money must be refunded with money from the current year’s tax collections. Unless there is a substantial payout, which potentially may have to be bonded, the impact on the budget is immaterial. Mr. Barker recalled one substantial payout years ago (the Duck Pond Building) that was refunded through a multi-year payout. Mr. Barker noted that the average property values in Ridgewood are between $1 million and $5 million. Mr. Barker listed the commercial properties under appeal as the prior Sealfons Building, Valley Ford, and Ken Smith sites. These properties are valued in the range of $5 million, with most of that value being in the land. The remaining properties are valued for less.

6. Management Information Systems (MIS)

Dylan Hansen, System Administrator, was present to discuss the MIS budget. Mr. Hansen stated that when he became employed by Ridgewood eleven years ago, the network consisted of one computer relying on another computer to perform a task. Now, integrated servers, desktops, networks, and fiber connections represent an 800%+ growth. Currently, IT manages a little over 300 desktop personal computers, servers, laptops, and tablets; 116 cell phone lines; 70 phone lines; 2 Primary Rate Interfaces (PRI); 10 Internet Service Provider (ISP) Connections; and 50+ switches connecting fiber networks, with two core switches being replaced. Last year, the firewall was upgraded, which included a load balancer that automatically switches internet connections if an ISP goes down. There are currently almost 20 Wi-Fi access points available for Village properties and departments. MIS is planning to experiment with the uploading of police car videos while patrolling in the CBD. Last year, Mr. Hansen earned his Certified Government Chief Information Officer (CGCIO) license from Rutgers University. Another 2016 accomplishment was the installation of televisions in the courtroom. Mr. Hansen thanked the Signal Division for mounting these screens. With the help of a part-time associate, the MIS department set-up over 28 new personal computers in the network and is working on utilizing the Village’s help desk system, entitled “Track It”. Spatial Data Logic has been installed in the Building Department and the Health Department. New features proposed for the website include a pothole app and tracking portals for the public to report items such as downed trees or signs, which will then be forwarded directly to the appropriate department. The installation of a fiber loop allowed the cancellation of three internet connections, resulting in a savings of $210 per month. Additional connections will be removed in the future. The movement of phone lines over to digital, and the utilization of IP phones throughout the network resulted in a savings of $60,000 in last year’s Telecom Budget.

Mr. Hansen addressed the goals for 2017, which include making the part-time position a full-time position and modifications to the audio in the courtroom. One of the Village’s facilities has been equipped with a room that the Village has been permitted to use for an off-site, server back-up farm. Currently, data is backed-up every night in Village Hall. Once a month, data is backed-up to two hard drives, which are then placed in a safety deposit box located in a bank three towns away. This procedure will continue even after the other site is up and running. The Wi-Fi network is proposed to be expanded throughout the Village to allow for better communications with employees on the road. This expansion will also reduce monthly fees for Verizon Wi-Fi cards and possibly solve some current connectivity issues. MIS will continue to operate the backbone of the fiber network and will be building more redundancy within the network, to minimize down time and allow for better security within the network. Mr. Hansen stated that he has had discussions with Mr. Rooney regarding the creation of a policy on how people will utilize the network, including prohibitions against connecting personal equipment to the network. Mr. Hansen will continue to maintain the current inventory of all IT equipment.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Hansen stated that he is looking into licensing classes that would allow the Village to introduce drones into daily usage, such as flyovers of completed projects for engineering information. This will allow the integration of before-and-after photos with topology maps and “AutoCAD” software. The Fire Department will also be able to utilize drones to view structures during and after a fire and the Police Department can use the drones for search and surveillance. Mr. Hansen has already attended a class and obtained information on integrating drones into daily usage. Mr. Hansen was advised to act as soon as possible, before the Federal Government passes any laws or regulations concerning drones. This will allow the Village to establish its own COOP and rules on how the drones are utilized. A request will be made in the Capital Budget to purchase three drones.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Hansen said that there are Ridgewood Police Officers who are familiar with the usage of drones and willing to obtain a commercial license. A drone with a basic camera set-up and extra batteries will cost approximately $1800 to $2200. The Joint Insurance Fund (JIF) will cover and insure the drones and their usage, contingent upon someone obtaining a commercial unmanned pilot license for the drones.

Councilman Voigt questioned why data isn’t backed-up to cloud storage. Mr. Hansen explained that sensitive information, such as juvenile information from the Police Department, cannot be backed-up to cloud storage.   Inquiries were made into backing-up other information to the cloud, however this was found to be too expensive.

Councilman Voigt asked Mr. Hansen to report on the security of the network. Mr. Hansen stated that the Village has top-of-the-line firewalls in place. All previously open ports have been closed and all currently open ports are highly monitored by the firewalls. Fail safes are in place if the firewalls notice any anomalies. A load balancer provides one layer of security, followed by the firewalls. There is also a layer of security within the e-mail server, as well as anti-virus software. It is highly unlikely that someone could get past all of these features. The biggest risk for most places is not from someone from the outside coming in, but from someone on the inside clicking on a link that opens a portal resulting in a data breach. Web filters are in place and employees have been advised never to click on anything suspicious and, if concerned, to shut down the system and call MIS.   The Village has never been successfully hacked.

Councilman Voigt asked Mr. Hansen to explain Budget Line 29, “Municipality in a Box - Spatial Data Logic”. Mr. Hansen explained that this covers the use of this software package by multiple departments including Building, Health, Engineering and the Village Clerk’s Office. The cost was previously divided between departments, but this did not work out correctly. The current billing procedure in place bases the cost out of one department. This is the same procedure used for the Finance Program.

Under questioning by Councilman Sedon, Mr. Hansen explained that the increase in the budget would be the addition of “Municipality in a Box” and the part-time employee becoming full-time.

Under questioning by Councilman Sedon, Mr. Hansen said improvements to the Village website include modifications to the layout and the addition of different apps from Spatial Data Logic such as interactive maps.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Hansen said that money has been put aside for the paperless system, which is proposed to be implemented in 2017, after all approvals are received.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Hansen said that he will receive a price quote in April for updating the courtroom sound system.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Hansen said that the system processes between 9,000 and 15,000 e-mails each day. A very small percentage of spam e-mails get through the filters.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Hansen indicated that the drone could be shared with other municipalities. Currently, only the County is licensed to fly drones. The course and test for the license is offered every three months. Mr. Hansen will provide the Village Council with more information.

7. Planning Board

Robert Rooney, C.F.O. was present to discuss the Planning Board’s budget. Mr. Rooney stated that the Salary and Wage budget for the Planning Board is slightly higher than last year, taking into account the resignation of the Village Planner, Blais Brancheau, and adding two additional staff members. Mr. Rooney noted that last year’s expense was significantly higher than the originally budgeted amount. However, Mr. Rooney kept the budgeted amount for 2017 consistent with last year’s budget, emphasizing that the actual cases that will be brought before the Planning Board this year cannot be determined. Mr. Rooney noted that the cost for the Video Technicians is in the Village Council’s Budget.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Rooney explained that after the Village Budget is adopted, the Village Council can then consider an ordinance for a Special Emergency for the Master Plan Revision. Once the hearing is complete and the ordinance is adopted, a professional can be hired to complete the Master Plan. One-fifth of the cost will be paid each year over a five-year period. The professional hired will be paid upon completion of the work. The Village Councilmembers will need to determine the technical components they desire in the Master Plan and then request a cost estimate.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Ms. Mailander explained that the $128,497 Planning Board Salary figure includes a Professional Planner on staff working 14 hours per work and another Professional Planner who is working on the multi-family applications.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Rooney stated that the Planning Board Attorney fees are under “Other Professional Services”. Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Rooney explained that the $135,000 budgeted for “Other Professional Services” was kept consistent with last year’s budgeted amount, even though the appropriated amount was $161,000. It is unknown if additional cases will come before the Planning Board in 2017, which is what occurred in 2016.

8. Zoning Board of Adjustment

Robert Rooney, C.F.O. was present to discuss the Zoning Board of Adjustment’s budget. Mr. Rooney explained that the increase in Salary and Wages for the Zoning Board of Adjustment is for a full-time Zoning Officer, and a part-time individual to assist in a backlog of minutes from prior meetings, going back approximately one year. Other Professional Services includes the Zoning Board Attorney cost per meeting (there are 28 meetings) and estimated costs for cases throughout the year.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Rooney explained that the Zoning Officer’s salary does not come out of escrow. Mr. Sanzari stated that additional billing is charged to an applicant’s escrow account, if appropriate.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, it was explained that a Zoning Officer enforces the Zoning Code and ensures that every application is accurate and compliant.

1. Wrap-up and Next Steps

Ms. Mailander explained that the next budget meeting is on Monday, March 27^th at 5:30 p.m. in the Village Courtroom. Discussions will include Surplus, Current Fund Revenues, and Final Capital budgets. All Department Directors will be present to answer any questions regarding the Final Capital Proposal, as well as additions to staff in the operating budget. The final component will be the presentation of three budget scenarios, including what the tax rate will be for each one of them. The Village Council will then choose a budget which will be prepared for introduction on April 12, 2017.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Rooney stated that revenue projections will be provided to the Village Councilmembers in their packets a week prior to the March 27^th meeting.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Rooney stated that he could provide a break-down of revenues from 2015, for comparison purposes.   He could also provide information from 2016 comparing budgeted and actual amounts, without a breakdown of the components, as this is not yet available for the 2016 budget. Ms. Mailander noted that revenue money collected is all that can be anticipated in the following year’s budget. An actual program must be in place with a guaranteed revenue stream in order to anticipate this revenue in the 2017 budget.

4. PUBLIC COMMENTS

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

Frances Loshin, 354 McKinley Place, complimented the way many Village Departments are doing so much with so little. However, she felt this was a vulnerability in terms of back-ups, and she felt this needed improving. Ms. Loshin also suggested allowing public comments after each department’s presentation. Ms. Loshin felt Department Directors should present more concrete information on how their goals will be executed and accomplished.

Mayor Knudsen stated that she appreciated Ms. Loshin’s comments and agreed that her suggestions should be considered in the future. Mayor Knudsen did note that additional time for comments would make the budget meetings longer. Ms. Mailander invited Ms. Loshin to e-mail her with any questions.

5. 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 Special Public Budget Meeting was adjourned at 8:06 p.m.

_____________________________

                                                                                                                  Susan Knudsen

                                                                                                                           Mayor

________________________________

            Heather A. Mailander

                 Village Clerk

RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY ON JUNE 28, 2017 AT 7:30 P.M.

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

Mayor Knudsen called the meeting to order at 8:53 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. At roll call, the following were present: Councilmembers Hache, Voigt, Walsh and Mayor Knudsen. Councilman Sedon was absent. Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney; and Donna M. Jackson, Deputy Village Clerk.  

2. ORDINANCES
3. Introduction - #3605 - Amend Chapter 260 - Trees and Shrubs

Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of Ordinance 3605. Councilwoman Walsh seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                        Councilmembers Hache, Voigt, Walsh and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       Councilman Sedon

ABSTAIN:     None

The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3605 by title:

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 260 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, TREES AND SHRUBS

Councilwoman Walsh moved that Ordinance 3605 be adopted on first reading and that

July 12, 2017 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                        Councilmembers Hache, Voigt, Walsh and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       Councilman Sedon

ABSTAIN:     None

3. RESOLUTIONS

THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 17-188 THROUGH 17-194 WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:

4. ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilwoman Walsh, seconded by Councilman Hache, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Special Public Meeting was adjourned at 8:57 p.m.

_____________________________

                                                                                                                     Susan Knudsen      

                                                                                                                           Mayor

_____________________________

            Donna M. Jackson

        Deputy Village Clerk

A REGULAR WORK SESSION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY ON JUNE 28, 2017 AT 7:30 P.M.

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, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen. Councilman Sedon was 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 and all first responders.

2. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

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

Cynthia Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, spoke about the train station parking that was removed from tonight’s agenda. Mrs. Halaby recalled that at a prior Village Council meeting, it was stated that only the Ridgewood Railroad Station building, and not the green oval in front of it known as the Train Station Plaza, was listed on the NJ Register of Historic Places. Ms. Halaby stated that she telephoned Andrea Tingey, Principal Historic Preservation Specialist at the New Jersey Historic Preservation Office, who told her that the Ridgewood Village Center Railroad Station Historic District includes the train station building and the entire area of Garber Square and Wilsey Square. The whole area is listed in the NJ Register of Historic Places. If the area is converted to parking, and is within the limits of the NJ Registered Listed Historic District, prior authorization must be received from the Commission of the Department of Environmental Protection. Ms. Tingey stated that an application prepared by Village Engineer Christopher Rutishauser was received on June 20, 2017. Ms. Halaby stated that she received a copy of this application, this evening. Ms. Halaby felt the application was erroneous in many counts. As an example, she noted that the application states that there will be “minimal decrease in the greenspace”, when, in fact, it will be reduced by 80%. As another example, Ms. Halaby noted a reference to the parking deck having been proposed and turned down numerous time, when, in fact, the parking deck is on tonight’s agenda for discussion. Ms. Halaby stated that she would like to continue to discuss the inconsistencies of this application with the Village Council members at a later time.

Hans Lehman, 234 Union Street, referred to a discussion held at the June 14, 2017 Village Council meeting which addressed the Zabriskie/Schedler Committee out of Parks and Recreation; the Community Relations Advisory Board (CRAB); and the Financial Advisory Board (FAC). Mr. Lehman felt that the suggested reorganization of these committees to an ad hoc system was an attempt to remove certain volunteers, as political payback and as a form of intimidation. Mr. Lehman noted that CRAB, of which his wife is Chairperson, has been in existence now for nearly 30 years. Hundreds of volunteers have served on CRAB, and the concerns of hundreds of victims, effected by violence, hatred and racism, have been heard by CRAB. Mr. Lehman stated that volunteers are an integral part of the operation of a municipality, and volunteerism should be encouraged. He did not feel an ad hoc system would work for CRAB. CRAB is a standing body that, over decades, has developed a referral system for those residents who have been victimized. He urged the Village Councilmembers to consider the volunteers and victims when considering this issue.

Siobhan Winograd, 274 Ivy Place, described CRAB as a group of well-meaning, wonderful people who have a lot of different viewpoints. Hate, bias and intimidation are complex structures that have seized society for a long time, and require diversity to deal with them effectively. Ms. Winograd spoke of her pride in how the residents and merchants of Ridgewood embraced diversity by flying the Gay Pride Flag at their homes and businesses on June 1^st.

Ann Marie Agnello, 31 Clinton Avenue, urged the Village Councilmembers to consider the safety implications of amending the Clinton Avenue parking ordinance. She expressed concerns with children and turning vehicles; the movement of parked vehicles during restricted times; and the impact of traffic flow on West Ridgewood Avenue and Godwin Avenue. Mayor Knudsen pointed out that a discussion on the amended ordinance will be held this evening, and a public hearing on the amended ordinance is scheduled for July 12, 2017. Mayor Knudsen will e-mail documents associated with this issue to Ms. Agnello.

Gregory Brown, 444 Linwood Avenue, thanked the Village Councilmembers for their service to the Village. Mr. Brown asked for a status update regard the water conservation methods being implemented by the other municipalities that are serviced by Ridgewood Water.

Mr. Brown expressed safety concerns with debris from the Fourth of July Celebration and children attending day camp. He noted that it took well over a week to clean-up after the Fourth of July Celebration last year.

Bill McCandless, 71 Ridge Road, described the Ridgecrest entrance to the train station as a disaster; full of weeds and overgrown. He urged the Village Council to bring this to the attention of New Jersey Transit.

Mr. McCandless spoke about the importance of establishing a reasonable speed limit on Village roads, as well as adding an increased level of enforcement, particularly with the traffic increase anticipated as a result of the new, multi-unit residential developments.  

Sean McCooe, 66 Walthery Avenue, urged the Village Council not to change the dual access of the street going down to Ho-Ho-Kus over the train tracks (Glenwood Road).

Mr. McCooe also asked the Village Council to look into removing the bamboo and overgrown vegetation on Crest Road, that impedes a clear view of fireworks.

Wayne Angelbeck, 630 Morningside Road, asked if traffic studies were conducted before a decision was made to change the traffic pattern of Glenwood Road to one-way going eastbound. He felt that more time and public input should be required before any decision is made on the Glenwood Road Crossing.

There being no further public comment, Mayor Knudsen closed the meeting to the public.

Mayor Knudsen stated that the Village Council will follow-up on the status of the water conservation ordinances with the other municipalities serviced by Ridgewood Water.

In reference to changing the Glenwood Avenue Crossing, Mayor Knudsen stated that this issue has been under discussion since the fall of 2016. Village Manager, Heather Mailander, urged everyone wishing to comment on this issue to visit the Village website to view the NJ DOT memorandum of record and contact information before the July 7, 2017 deadline. Ms. Mailander noted that NJ DOT owns Glenwood Avenue, so the decision to change the traffic pattern of Glenwood Avenue is made by NJ DOT, not the Village Council. Mayor Knudsen stated that she will e-mail related documents from the NJDOT to Mr. Angelbeck, and she requested that he forward it to any other interested person.

Ms. Mailander stated that the Village will look into the overgrowth at the north end of the train platform.

Mayor Knudsen re-opened the public comment portion of the meeting.

Joseph Ferrante, 610 Hillcrest Road, pointed out that even though the decision to change the traffic pattern of Glenwood Avenue is made by NJ DOT, not the Village Council, NJDOT is looking for substantive input from the Village Council. The Village should not be passive. Although this is a state decision, local government carries a great deal of weight. Mayor Knudsen assured everyone that the Village Council will discuss this issue and take a very strong position on it.

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

3. PRESENTATION

1. Open Space Survey Findings

Ralph Currey, Chairperson of the Open Space Committee, introduced Jim Bostler, a member of the Open Space Committee and the driving force behind the Open Space Survey. Mr. Currey explained that the Open Space Survey was conducted in response to a requirement of the Green Acres Planning and Senate Program for the Village to have an updated Open Space and Recreation Plan. The Open Space and Recreation Plan is part of the Master Plan. The NJ Green Acres Program specifies the elements that are required to be set forth in the Open Space and Recreation Plan. One of the requirements is a “needs analysis”. Taking the industry numerical standard, used by organizations such as the National Recreation and Parks Association, of 10 acres of open space per 1,000 residents, a needs analysis conducted in 2010 used a population of 25,000 to determine the need for 250 acres of open space. Since that time, the standards have changed, as it was determined that this method was more of a “one-size-fits all” approach, and may result in unrealistic numbers. Mr. Currey explained that the revised Open Space Recreation Plan will use both a numerical standard, as well as a community-based needs assessment.

Mr. Bostler explained that the Open Space Survey was written by members of the Open Space Committee, as well as outside experts in market research. The Open Space Committee took the Voters Registration List and created a random sample of Ridgewood households. Duplications were eliminated. In April, surveys were sent to the first 2,100 households that came out of the random sample. (Mr. Bostler noted that there are approximately 8,500 households in Ridgewood, so 2,100 households represented a 25% sampling.) The goal was to receive at least 360 responses, and 413 responses were received. The survey had a 95% confidence level.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Bostler explained that to combat fraud, access to the on-line survey response form was restricted to one-time only and from only one computer IP address. Mr. Currey added that the survey was only open for two weeks. Mayor Knudsen noted that she observed information in the lobby of Village Hall that identified the link to this survey. Mr. Bostler and Mr. Currey suggested that other groups may have provided this information. Mr. Bostler also noted that the survey permitted respondents without computers to bring the paper survey to Village Hall, where Mr. Bostler would enter the information into the computer for them. Mr. Bostler assured the Mayor that he was confident with the accuracy of the numbers.

Mr. Bostler listed the recommendations of the Open Space Committee, broken down into the categories of needs, balance, awareness, and use of website, as follows:

Needs

• Over 60% of the respondents would support the acquisition of more open space.
• People were generally satisfied with the conditions of the parks; but they often noted that some improvement is needed
• There was no consensus as to the funding of the acquisitions or improvements, although there is a willingness to invest

Balance (passive versus active open space)

• Over half of the respondents wanted a combination of passive and active open space
• Active-only or passive-only acquisitions should be carefully considered based upon specific interests

Awareness

• There must be better communication on the location and accessibility of all parks, including possible tie-ins with Ridgewood Wildscape, Ridgewood Shade Tree or links on the Village website. Access may also be an issue as to parking, mobility, and user-friendly access for seniors and other groups

Use of Website

• Over 90% of the respondents indicated that they were aware of the Village website, but only a little over half of the respondents used it. More attention is required such as, the ease of use, making sure information is current, providing shortcuts for special needs, and providing more tie-ins to local groups.

Mr. Bostler listed some of the results of the survey, as follows:

• Over 60% of the respondents would support the acquisition of more open space.
• Approximately 39% felt that passive-only open space should be added in the future
• Approximately 9% wanted dedicated, active-only open space
• Over 50% wanted a combination of active and passive open space to be added
• Approximately 44% wanted available funding to go toward land acquisition
• Approximately 56% wanted available funding to go toward existing open space

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Bostler explained that active open space is defined by activities that are scheduled in a more formalized basis. Passive open space is more informal and individualistic. Mr. Currey added that an active open space is more like a specifically constructed playing field. Mayor Knudsen noted that these definitions were not clearly stated in the survey. Mr. Currey agreed that the answers will need to be interpreted to a certain degree for this reason, as well as the fact that many people are also unaware of the presence of existing open space within the Village.  

Mr. Bostler continued with the survey findings, as follows:

Choices were presented on how to support funding of the acquisition of additional open space.

• The questioned was answered by 293 of the 413 respondents, suggesting that 29% of the respondents were against any additional funding
• 35% chose an increase property tax surcharge earmarked for open space
• 21% chose a Seller/Buyer Transfer Fee attached to future home sales
• Very little support for a one-time assessment of current properties
• 31% chose a one-time assessment for new construction
• Half of the respondents would support an increase in Ridgewood’s Open Space Tax being put onto the election ballot as a public question; half of the respondents would not support this.
• Almost 90% indicated that they have used open space, especially Van Neste Square and Veterans Park
• Almost 98% were familiar with Graydon Pool; with 55% indicating that they don’t use it and only 3% indicating that they were unaware of Graydon Pool
• Over 50% were aware of the Village Tennis Courts, but did not use them
• 62% were unaware of Gypsy Pond
• 64% were unaware of North (inaudible) Park and Pleasant Park (Mr. Bostler noted that this figure may have been reduced if Pleasant Park was identified as Hawes Field)
• There was a great deal of satisfaction with the hiking and exercise trails
• There was a lesser degree of satisfaction with the 60-foot and 90-foot baseball fields and the softball fields (Mr. Bostler pointed out that there was a low response rate in this area considering that not all respondents were associated with sports. He suggested conducting additional surveys with people involved in sports to get a more accurate result.)
• Overall, 85% of the respondents were very happy with the Ridgewood parks and outdoor recreation facilities, with only 15% expressing disappointment.
• Two-thirds of the respondents were satisfied or very satisfied with the way the parks and outdoor recreation facilities were maintained.
• 94% of the respondents were familiar with Ridgewood’s website; however, over half do not use it on a regular basis.

Mr. Bostler thanked the Village Council for giving the Open Space Committee the $1,200 funding to conduct this survey, and the opportunity to present the information this evening.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Bostler explained that the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) recommends that a minimum of 3% of the land area be set aside for recreational purposes. However, this 3% figure is ambiguous, as it is unclear on how the land area would be calculated. The National Recreation and Parks Association suggests setting aside 10 acres per 1,000 population for recreational purposes. Mr. Bostler recalled that, a few years ago, the Village engaged a consulting firm to prepare a recreation plan, which used the standard of 10.5 acres per 1,000 population.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Bostler stated that he received positive feedback when presenting this survey to the Parks and Recreation Department.

Mayor Knudsen thanked Mr. Currey, Mr. Bostler, and the Open Space Committee for their time, effort and service to the community.

4. DISCUSSION
5. Ridgewood Water
6. Award of Contract - Infrared Asphalt Restoration

Ms. Mailander explained that this contract is for infrared asphalt surface repair, asphalt trench patching, and miscellaneous curb and sidewalk repair at various locations. There were 11 registered plan holders and 3 bid packages were received. J. Fletcher Creamer Construction was the apparent low bidder at $1,267 for the aggregate amount of all the unit items. Their bid package was complete. The bid will be shared by the Village with Ridgewood Water Company, as well the possibility of other communities who have expressed an interest in using this low bidder for their pavement/concrete restoration work in the past. The total amount will not exceed $80,000.

1. Budget
2. Bergen County Open Space Trust Fund Grant Application

Timothy Cronin, Director, Parks and Recreation, was present.

Ms. Mailander explained that, annually, the Parks and Recreation Department applies for a grant through the Bergen County Open Space Trust Fund Municipal Program Park Improvement. This is a matching fund grant. It was determined that replacing the 12-year-old synthetic turf at Maple Park East was a priority; a use acceptable under the grant guidelines. The replacement will provide a safe, durable surface to exist in multi-purpose fields, which encompasses playing soccer, little league baseball, girls softball, lacrosse, football and additional active and passive recreational play purposes. The application grant process requires a public hearing, which is scheduled for August 2, 2017.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Cronin explained that the proposal is to replace the turf only. There will be some minor regrading of the sublayer. The work will comply with all regulations regarding concussion prevention.

Mayor Knudsen pointed out that page 3 of the application, under Historic Preservation Assessment, should state that there are historic sites that are contiguous with this property (Graydon Pool and Lester Stable). Village Attorney Matthew Rogers agreed with Mayor Knudsen. Mr. Cronin stated that he will contact the County to clarify this information.

1. Policy
2. Ordinance to Amend Chapter 260 - Trees and Shrubs

Ms. Mailander explained that, do to the fact that there was an attachment to the original ordinance which was adopted in June, which was not published nor was the Village Council aware of, the process is starting over with the ordinance being reintroduced with a different ordinance number and the scheduling of a public hearing on July 12, 2017.  

1. Parking
2. Rebid Central Valet Services

Ms. Mailander explained that there were 4 plan holders eligible to bid. The Village received one bid from LAZ Parking of New York City, with a quote of $1,323, for a 26-week total of $103,194. After further review of the bid received, it is recommended that the bid be rejected and the referenced work be rebid with reduced hours of service. Originally, the valet services were proposed for Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights; now the proposal is for Friday and Saturday nights only.

Councilwoman Walsh moved to suspend the Work Session and convene a Special Public Meeting. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       Councilman Sedon

ABSTAIN:     None

5. SPECIAL PUBLIC MEETING - SEE SEPARATE MINUTES

Councilwoman Walsh moved to adjourn the Special Public Meeting and reconvene the Work session. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                        Councilmembers Hache, Voigt, Walsh and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       Councilman Sedon

ABSTAIN:     None

6. DISCUSSION (CONTINUED)
7. Ridgewood Water
8. Lease of Property for Co-Location of Wireless Telecommunications Antennas - Glen Avenue Tank Location

Ms. Mailander explained that Ridgewood Water accepted bids for the above reference location. The project involves the lease of tank and ground space for the installation of new communication and related equipment on Ridgewood Water’s Glen Avenue Water Tank located in Midland Park, NJ. Three bid specifications were requested and received. The bid documents were reviewed and it is recommended that the bid be awarded to the highest bidder, Scientel Solutions, out of Lombard, Illinois. The award is contingent upon negotiating a final lease.

2. Award Contract - Polyphosphate Pumps for Corrosion Control

Ms. Mailander explained that in accordance with the USEPA Sanitary Survey, Federal and State lead and copper rules, and subsequent Administrative Order and NJDEP Corrosion Control Directive, Ridgewood Water must provide disinfection and corrosion control, respectively, to prevent bacteria, viruses, lead, and copper from leaching into the water supply. In order to accomplish this, sodium hypochlorite and ortho polyphosphate is fed into the system. In order to achieve the required level of treatment, chemical and polyphosphate pumps are utilized, as manufactured by Prominent and available only through Dave Heiner Associates in Parsippany, New Jersey. It is recommended that the contract be awarded to Dave Heiner Associates in the amount of $127,000. Funding for this purchase is contained in the Water Utility Capital Budget.

1. Parking
2. Update on Parking Garage

Robert Rooney, C.F.O. and Parking Utility Director, was present.

Ms. Mailander explained the following options to consider for the parking garage on Hudson Street:

• Sell the Hudson Street Parking Lot, as it has been determined that there is no longer a need for that parking lot for public use. Bids could be requested for the sale of the property. The sale would be open to anyone, and the Village cannot restrict what can be built on that lot.
• Lease the Hudson Street Parking Lot, and request that a parking garage be built on this lot under Village specifications. Under State Statute, leasing arrangements cannot be made for profit and fees.
• Award a contract for a design and project manager. Once the design is complete, the bid process for construction would begin. Bids must comply with all aspects of the State Purchasing Law.
• Declare Hudson Street as a redevelopment property. This would involve hearings at both the Village Council level and the Planning Board level. Once accomplished, there are no restrictions as to how the developer is selected or how the design and construction process is handled.

The Village Councilmembers discussed these options. Councilwoman Walsh felt the most feasible option was to own the property and build upon it. Councilman Voigt agreed.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Rooney stated that the third option, to award a contract for a design and project manager, was the most viable from a financial standpoint.

Mayor Knudsen also agree that the third option, awarding a contract for a design and project manager, was the best. However, she felt that the fourth option, declaring Hudson Street as a redevelopment property, should be kept as an alternative option. She expressed a concern that the fourth option would be a long process, but she noted that there is the benefit of there being no restrictions.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Rooney stated that he is recommending another Walker Study.

Councilwoman Walsh spoke of the importance of including the intensity of traffic, anticipated from the Dayton and KS Broad multi-family developments, in the Walker Study. Mr. Rooney explained that Village professionals will meet with the consultants and go through all the changes that have occurred since the last study was completed. This information will be incorporated into their projections.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Rooney explained that, previously, once the garage design was known, a traffic study took place based upon the garage design. Mr. Rooney felt that the traffic study could be done simultaneously with the bid process, and the Village can either ask the successful bidder to include that in their process, or it can be done separately, but at the same time.  

Councilwoman Walsh spoke of the importance of defining the uses of the parking garage, so that it does not get filled-up by Central Business District (CBD) resident parking. Mr. Rooney recalled that the previous Walker Study contained a draft report of how the garage should be used. This report included where people should park and the percentages of parking for commuters, shoppers/diners, etc. This report could be updated with current information.

It was the consensus of the Village Council to choose option three, the awarding of a contract for a design and project manager. The Walker Study will be discussed at the July 12, 2017 Village Council meeting. Since the Village Council has already appointed a traffic consultant, he will be asked to conduct a review before the Walker Study is revisited.

Councilman Hache asked how the parking uses were allocated by use in the original Walker Report. Mr. Rooney stated that he did not know this information offhand; however, he stated that he will forward copies of the original Walker Report to all the Councilmembers.

Councilman Hache spoke of the importance of prohibiting overnight parking.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Rooney explained that the Parking Utility will support the garage. An analysis will be conducted to determine parking rates.

2. Clinton Avenue Parking - Safety Concerns

Councilwoman Walsh explained that the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee had the following questions regarding the hours that Clinton Avenue is proposed to be closed:

• During the designated restricted access hours, will anyone other than residents be able to access Clinton Avenue?
• If someone parked on Clinton Avenue during the day and needed to leave during the hours Clinton Avenue is closed, how would this be regulated?

Councilman Voigt felt that since there are no sidewalks on Clinton Avenue, the ordinance should not be amended.

Mayor Knudsen suggested prohibiting parking beginning one half hour before and one half hour after the road closure times. This will ensure that there is no traffic on the street when school children are present. A discussion followed, and it was decided to use Councilwoman Walsh’s suggestion to allow parking from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. only, with appropriate signage.

Councilwoman Walsh suggested allowing parking on only one side of the street. A discussion followed, including input from Ridgewood Police Sergeant John Chuck, and it was decided that parking will be allowed only on the east side of Clinton Avenue.

This amended ordinance will be introduced at the July 12, 2017 Village Council meeting.

1. Budget
2. Declare Fire Department Equipment Surplus

Ms. Mailander explained that two pieces of property can be declared surplus. One is a 1999 GMC Yukon SUV, that has multiple mechanical problems and is no longer used to respond to emergencies. The other is firefighting hose, which is 20 years or older and is damaged, so it is not suitable for firefighting.

2. Award Contract Under State Contract - Tires

Ms. Mailander explained that there is a need to purchase tires through the State of New Jersey Cooperative Purchasing Program, for a cost not to exceed $55,000. Since the purchase exceeds the statutory limit of $40,000 under the State’s Cooperative Purchasing Program, it must be authorized by Village Council resolution. The vendor is Kirk’s Tire and Auto, located in Bergenfield, NJ.

3. Award Contract Under State Contract - Police Handguns, Holsters,                                          and Magazine Pouches

Ms. Mailander explained that this resolution will authorize the purchase of new, Glock 9mm handguns for the Police Department, as well as holsters, magazine pouches, and associated ammunition. The handgun contract is proposed to be awarded to the lowest bidder, Witmer Public Safety Group. The holsters and magazine pouches will be purchased from Atlantic Tactical under State Contract. The ammunition will be purchased from Eagle Point, also under State Contract.

4. Award Contract Under State Contract - Two Police Patrol SUVs

Ms. Mailander explained that this resolution will authorize the purchase of two, Chevy Tahoe Police Pursuit Vehicles, and associated emergency equipment. The purchase will be made out of 2017 Capital, and will not exceed $132,000 in total.        These vehicles will be assigned to patrol, and will replace two, 2012 Chevy Tahoe’s, which are in good working order, but are at the end of the life cycle of a police car. One vehicle will be given to the Office of Emergency Management and the other vehicle will be given to the Building Department. Some of the equipment in these cars, including camera systems, radios, and radar systems, will be reused in the new vehicles. The new vehicles will be purchased through State Contract. The radar systems will be purchased through a sole source provider, and the striping will be purchased through a local vendor.

5.          Award Contract Under State Contract - Lifts and Support Stands -                                         Fleet Services

Ms. Mailander explained that this resolution will authorize the acquisition of lifts and support stands for the Central Garage. The purchase will be made under State Contract, with a total expenditure of $83,397. The State Contract Vendor is Hoffman Services, located in Newark, NJ.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Richard Calbi, Director of Operations, explained that this purchase will replace some antiquated equipment and add some additional equipment. The lifts will be portable.

6. Award Contract Under National Joint Powers Alliance - Front End                                         Loaders with Snowplows

Ms. Mailander explained that this resolution will authorize the purchase of two, front end loaders, with snow plows and attachments, at a cost not to exceed $467,582. The vendor is Groff Tractor, located in Totowa, NJ.

7. Award Contract Under National Joint Powers Alliance - Two                                                    Sanitation Trucks with Snowplows

Ms. Mailander pointed out that none of the current sanitation trucks have snowplows, so this will be a new practice. The resolution will authorize the purchase of two chassis and cabs; two rear load packers; and two plows, at a cost not to exceed $428,604.16, from three different vendors.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Calbi explained that the cost to operate a garbage truck as a snowplow is the same as operating other snowplows. The new trucks will be more versatile and will be used primarily on straight, level roadways (main thoroughfares).

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Calbi explained that a plow cannot be added to existing trucks, as these trucks are not made for that type of equipment. He pointed out that the new trucks will have bases that are the same as the trucks used by the Streets Division, so this will make maintenance universal throughout the Recycling Division, the Sanitation Division, and the Streets Division, as well as increasing snow plowing capabilities.

1. Policy
2. Options for Glenwood Road Railroad Crossing

Police Sergeant John Chuck and Village Engineer Christopher Rutishauser were present.

Ms. Mailander stated that, even though the decision to change the traffic pattern of Glenwood Avenue is made by NJ DOT, not the Village Council, NJDOT is looking for input from the Village Council.

Mr. Rutishauser referred to a memorandum he wrote, dated June 23, 2017, detailing a discussion he had with a representative of NJDOT. The representative explained that one of the issues that would be reviewed, when considering rescinding their plans for Glenwood Road, would be if the road were reconfigured to have a better flow of movement and traffic. Currently, some of the problems involve westbound traffic getting stuck on the tracks when larger vehicles have difficulty navigating the s -shaped turn.

Mr. Rutishauser reviewed the following potential options that may address NJDOT’s safety concerns, while still maintaining two-direction traffic on Glenwood Road:

1. Widen Glenwood Road - Widen the existing road to better support two-way traffic and eliminate the present bottleneck condition of traffic backing up onto the railroad tracks due to eastbound vehicles waiting for westbound vehicles to travel through the s - shaped turn. The work would be extensive due to the need for considerable rock excavation. Mr. Rutishauser estimated the cost to be in the $1 million to $2 million range. Negotiations with property owners may be necessary to allow work in an existing rock bluff, and there are potential conflicts with several Village sanitary sewer lines.

Mr. Rutishauser pointed out that the railroad track bed, running from the toe of the slope eastward, belongs to the Borough of Ho-Ho-Kus, so any changes would require their approval/agreement. Mr. Rutishauser stated that he would like to have the Village Councilmembers’ opinions of these preliminary options before approaching the Borough of Ho-Ho-Kus for assistance with the cost. He did note that the Village Engineer from Ho-Ho-Kus was present at some of the meetings with NJDOT. NJDOT will also have to approve any changes.

2. Construct a Bridge over the Railroad Tracks - NJ Transit requires a minimum of 23 feet of vertical clearance under a bridge to their track bed. Considering the vertical thickness of a bridge deck to be in the 4-foot to 6-foot range, and the approximate 20-foot grade on the Ho-Ho-Kus side, preliminary calculations indicate that the slope will be significant and may exceed standard design recommendations.   A bridge will be expensive (in the multi-million-dollar range). The bulk of the bridge will be located in Ho-Ho-Kus. Maintenance of the bridge will be an ongoing issue, and it may be difficult to plow and to control ice and snow.
3. Enhance Signalization at Road Approaches - This option will provide a signalized control of the road. The traffic signals would need to be installed near the triangle of Glenwood Road near Upper Boulevard in Ridgewood, and at the base of Warren Avenue in Ho-Ho-Kus. The signals would have to be integrated with the railroad crossing barriers. The cycle would permit alternating, one-way traffic flow. The cost of this option is estimated to be in the range of $400,000 to $600,000. Mr. Rutishauser noted that during busy traffic periods, there will likely be a queue on either approach, which may create problems in the surrounding neighborhoods. Mr. Rutishauser estimated that this queue may involve at least 8-10 vehicles at a time, particularly during morning drop-off time at the train station. He also pointed out that the traffic signals will probably be at the eye level of anyone sitting on the front porch of their Upper Boulevard house. Ms. Mailander also noted that these traffic signals will be large and bright, and will operate 24 hours a day/7 days a week, shining into the windows of surrounding homes.
4. One-Way Eastbound Traffic Only on Glenwood Road - Ms. Mailander described a fourth option as follows: One-way traffic coming from Glenwood Road down, with a small walkway against the triangle area for drop-off, and the installation of crosswalks across to the stairs. The traffic would then flow one-way back up the triangle, with both a left hand turn and a right hand turn. Two bike racks would also be installed along the walkway and in the vicinity of the triangle area. Mr. Rutishauser noted that this may address one of the NJDOT’s safety concerns involving vehicles dropping off commuters and then making U-turns or K-turns on the railroad track bed. Councilman Voigt suggested prohibiting drop-offs on the tracks and keeping the two-way traffic flow. Mr. Rutishauser felt that this effort would have to be coordinated with Ho-Ho-Kus, as the Ho-Ho-Kus Police Department would be the enforcing authority, and it would be against mostly Ridgewood residents.

Sergeant Chuck explained that there is a timing issue associated with the option of the two-way traffic flow and the traffic light. There is a 90 second wait after a vehicle triggers a photo sensor, and this wait will increase significantly if the train barrier signal is activated.

Councilman Voigt suggested camera-enforcement of the no-drop-off law. Mr. Rutishauser believed this type of enforcement had been eliminated in the State of New Jersey. He also noted that the cameras would be located in Ho-Ho-Kus.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Rutishauser explained that when NJDOT first contacted the Village, they expressed major safety concerns with the at-grade crossing, based on observations, reports from train engineers, and field observations. The NJDOT initially suggested the possibility of closing Glenwood Road. Councilwoman Walsh suggested prohibiting large vehicles on this road. Mr. Rutishauser stated that the road has been posted as prohibiting vehicles weighing over 4 tons. Another problem involves GPS mapping systems directing vehicles, including large trucks, to this location.

Mayor Knudsen suggested constructing physical barriers indicating the height limit of vehicles. She described these structures as containing two pillars and a header. One would be placed close to the top of the hill at the drop-off area, and the other would be placed close to the bottom of the hill, well before the tracks.

Mayor Knudsen pointed out that closing Glenwood Road would require vehicles traveling this very busy roadway to find another route. Students traveling to Willard School will also need to be rerouted, which will add approximately 1½ miles to their trip. The NJDOT will need to be made aware of this.

In response to the suggestion of a physical barrier, Mr. Rutishauser noted that the Federal Highway Administration requires a 14-foot clearance for local roads. Mr. Rutishauser noted that there may be problem with vehicles with items on their roofs, such as bicycles, hitting the barrier. Mayor Knudsen felt that this would not be a common occurrence, and she suggested getting special permission to allow the physical barriers.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Sergeant Chuck stated that the majority of people who use the train station are familiar with it; it is the people who are not familiar with it that run into problems. Barriers have been posted in the past to discourage turning around on the tracks; however, people move these barriers. Sergeant Chuck stated that if the Village Council wants to keep two-way traffic on Glenwood Road, the roadway must be improved. He felt the one-way traffic option would be a strong compromise with NJDOT, Ho-Ho-Kus, and Ridgewood.

At the request of Councilman Voigt, Mr. Rutishauser stated that he will ask Ridgewood IT Director, Dylan Hansen, to see if he knows a way to restrict trucks from being directed through this route by GPS mapping programs.

Councilman Voigt felt that keeping the road two-way and making the drop-off area more inviting may encourage people to use it rather than dropping commuters off on the tracks. Sergeant Chuck felt that it was human nature for someone to want to be dropped off as close as possible to the train.  He also noted that improvements would still need to be made to the route. Ms. Mailander noted that the two-way traffic creates the potential for a conflict with vehicles coming up the hill and vehicles stopped at the drop-off.

At the request of Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Rutishauser stated that he will request the NJ Transit reports regarding the train engineers’ observations of vehicles turning around on the tracks. Councilman Voigt stated that he spoke to a NJ Transit representative, who explained to him that within a two-hour period, there were 40 incidences where cars actually followed the tracks. Mayor Knudsen reiterated the importance of receiving these reports before any decisions are made.

Councilman Voigt noted that some businesses located in Ho-Ho-Kus are concerned about the effect of making Glenwood Road a one-way street. Ms. Mailander pointed out that Ho-Ho-Kus businesses should not be adversely affected since the one-way direction leads into Ho-Ho-Kus. Mayor Knudsen stated that she was contacted by the Mayor of Ho-Ho-Kus, who questioned whether any Ridgewood residents had expressed concerns. The Mayor of Ho-Ho-Kus told Mayor Knudsen that there were business owners in Ho-Ho-Kus that expressed concerns. Ms. Mailander stated that she will contact the Ho-Ho-Kus Business Administrator on this issue.

Mayor Knudsen presented a photograph of the existing truck weight limit sign, which she described as small and unnoticeable. She asked if Ridgewood could work with Ho-Ho-Kus to post bigger signage. Councilman Voigt agreed, adding that an existing sign indicating, “no fouling on the tracks” should be made larger, and the word “fouling” should be replaced with the word “stopping”.

2. Garber Square Bike Lane

Patrolman Raymond Tarino, the conductor of the Garber Square Traffic Study, and Sergeant John Chuck were present.

Patrolman Tarino stated that over a two-week period, he observed traffic and conducted traffic counts in the area of Garber Square. Patrolman Tarino broke the site down into the following four areas: the intersection of West Ridgewood Avenue and Wilsey Square; Garber Square Eastbound; Garber Square Westbound; and the intersection of Franklin Avenue and North Broad Street.

Regarding the peak traffic volumes going westbound, Patrolman Tarino observed that there was an average peak volume of 615 vehicles from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.; an average peak volume of 750 vehicles from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.; an average peak volume of 850 vehicles from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.; an average peak volume of 815 vehicles from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.; and an average peak volume of 850 vehicles from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

At 3:45 p.m., the furthest backup for traffic westbound reached the driveway of Stop Shop. Shadowing the furthest vehicle, Patrolman Tarino observed that it took two traffic light cycles to get through Franklin Avenue and Oak Street; two traffic light cycles to get through Franklin Avenue and North Broad Street; and one traffic light cycle to get across West Ridgewood Avenue. The trip took a total of 5.5 minutes. By 4:00 p.m., the traffic had eased and it took only one traffic light cycle for a vehicle to get through each intersection.

At 5:15 p.m., the furthest backup for traffic westbound reached Cottage Place. Shadowing the furthest vehicle, Patrolman Tarino observed that it took six minutes to complete the trip from Cottage Place to West Ridgewood Avenue (two traffic light cycles for each intersection). By 5:30 p.m., traffic had eased and it took only one traffic light cycle for a vehicle to get through each intersection.

Between 3:05 p.m. and 3:25 p.m., North Broad Street, which has a very short traffic light cycle, backs up to East Ridgewood Avenue, allowing only an average of 10 vehicles to make the left turn toward westbound Garber Square at the green light.

Regarding the peak traffic volumes going eastbound, Patrolman Tarino observed that there was an average peak volume of 716 vehicles from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m.; an average peak volume of 785 vehicles from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.; an average peak volume of 731 vehicles from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.; an average peak volume of 714 vehicles from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.; and an average peak volume of 686 vehicles from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Patrolman Tarino stated that, on average, 18,000 vehicles traverse Garber Square on a daily basis. Patrolman Tarino compared this number to a traffic study conducted on West Glen Avenue in 2015, which found that an average of 11,000 to 12,000 vehicles traversed West Glen Avenue on a daily basis.

Garber Square Eastbound traffic averaged two traffic light cycles during peak volume hours. Congestion was not observed on Wilsey Square. From 7:25 a.m. to 8:00 a.m., West Ridgewood Avenue was observed backing up approximately 550 feet or just before Heights Road. It took a vehicle, on average, three to four traffic light cycles to complete their movement through the intersection of West Ridgewood Avenue and Garber Square going eastbound.

There are two, heavily occupied NJ Transit trains present during the 7:25 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. time frame. Pedestrian traffic is very heavy (middle schoolers and commuters), and some of this pedestrian traffic is in the tunnel. There is very heavy vehicular traffic going in and out of Station Plaza. Patrolman Tarino observed a large number of vehicles exiting Washington Place onto West Ridgewood Avenue. None of these delays were caused by a backup on Garber Square eastbound. Most vehicles on West Ridgewood Avenue during this time were attempting to turn left onto Garber Square eastbound. Due to heavy pedestrian traffic over Garber Square from West Ridgewood Avenue, as well as a heavy presence of vehicles exiting Station Plaza from commuter drop-off, much of the green traffic light cycle for left turning vehicles was spent yielding to the right-of-way of vehicles and stopping for pedestrians.

Patrolman Tarino stated that his observations of the traffic light cycles at all four intersections in the area were good and did not need much improvement.

Patrolman Tarino stated that he compiled crash reports from January, 2012 to October, 2014, prior to the bike lanes being installed. There was a total of 30 accidents during this period. The statistics were broken down into the following categories: Reportable Motor Vehicle Accidents ($500 in damage or more or an injury); and Slight Motor Vehicle Accidents (less than $500 in damage and no injuries).  

Patrolman Tarino stated that a significant finding from January, 2012 to October, 2014, was the occurrence of seven reported crashes involving vehicles turning left from West Ridgewood Avenue onto Garber Square eastbound and not yielding to the right-of-way of vehicles exiting Station Plaza. Two of these accidents were same direction sideswipes in marked travel lanes of Garber Square, and there was one reported injury, with no transportation to the hospital. All rear end crashes reported were caused by inattentive driving.

Patrolman Tarino stated that a crash analysis conducted from November, 2014 to May, 2017 found that there were 32 accidents during this period. Two of these reported crashes involved vehicles turning left from West Ridgewood Avenue onto Garber Square eastbound. These vehicles did not yield to the right-of-way of vehicles exiting Station Plaza. Three of the four same-direction sideswipes were reportedly caused by vehicles improperly using bike lanes to pass. All rear end crashes reported were caused by inattentive driving. One pedestrian was struck on Broad Street and Franklin Avenue; however, this person left the scene prior to the arrival of emergency personnel. There were seven reported injuries; however, no one was transported to the hospital.

Patrolman Tarino compared the total number of motor vehicle accidents that occurred during the period of January, 2012 and October, 2014, prior to the installation of the bike lane, with those that occurred during the period of November, 2014 to May, 2017, after the installation of the bike lane, as follows:

                        Streets                                     1/2012 to 10/2014       11/2014 to 5/2017

• West Ridgewood/Wilsey Square                    14                                11
• North Broad Street/Franklin Avenue             6                                  6
• Garber Square Westbound                              2                                  9
• Garber Square Eastbound                                       8                                              6

Patrolman Tarino made the following recommendations:

For Garber Square Westbound:

• Extend the combined, right-turn-only/bike lane from 180 feet to 360 feet (in front of Pease Library, after the left curve), which will allow a queuing of a total of 18 cars (currently 9)

For Garber Square Eastbound:

• Extend the combined, right-turn-only/bike lane from 148 feet to 205 feet, which will allow an additional 3 cars to queue. More vehicles in the right lanes, turning right on red, will allow more traffic to flow, easing delays.

For West Ridgewood Avenue:

• Install a lead green arrow on the West Ridgewood side of the traffic light, combined with a pedestrian countdown, which would give vehicles turning left the ability to make the turn unobstructed by pedestrians crossing Garber Square or vehicles exiting Station Plaza
• Remove the first two, of the 15-minute parking spaces along the south curb of West Ridgewood Avenue, to extend the right-turn-lane by 40 feet, allowing more cars to queue that are attempting to turn right onto Wilsey Square, and giving vehicles going straight into Station Plaza the ability to go around stopped vehicles waiting to turn left onto Garber Square from West Ridgewood Avenue.

Patrolman Tarino stated that he would not change the traffic light cycles at any locations, as they appear to be maximizing their efficiency for the traffic volume.

Patrolman Tarino stated that a representative from NJ Transit told him that there is a total of 210 bus movements through Garber Square on a daily basis.

Ms. Mailander thanked Patrolman Tarino, Sergeant Chuck, and Mr. Rutishauser for all the time and effort that went into the preparation of this traffic report. Ms. Mailander stated that she was very pleased with the recommendations, as they may allow the bike lanes to remain while improving the flow of traffic.

Councilwoman Walsh pointed out that the traffic flow will be significantly impacted when the KS Broad multi-unit development is built.

Councilman Voigt described the traffic study as great and the recommendations as helpful. He also expressed concern with the increase of traffic from the KS Broad, Dayton and Enclave multi-unit developments. Councilman Voigt noted that discussions at the Planning Board level suggested changing five traffic lights to actuated lights on Franklin Avenue, along the corridor from Garber Square all the way down to East Ridgewood Avenue/Maple Avenue, to help with the queue. Sergeant Chuck stated that actuated lights would reduce wait time by only seconds during the peak times; however, actuated lights would make a tremendous improvement during off-peak times.

Mayor Knudsen thanked Patrolman Tarino for “the best report ever”, filled with a wealth of information. Mayor Knudsen stated that she was surprised at the amount of traffic traveling through the area. Mayor Knudsen suggested taking away the bike lane, create two lanes and painting share-the-road-arrows (sharrows). Patrolman Tarino felt westbound traffic was properly utilizing the roadway without the two lanes. Patrolman Tarino had a significant concern with creating two lanes going eastbound, because larger vehicles, such as busses or trucks with trailers, may cross over to the right lane when making a left turn. Patrolman Tarino suggested keeping the existing configuration of the roadway and considering it as a one-lane roadway, with a bike lane.

It was the consensus of the Village Council members to implement the recommendations of Patrolman Tarino. At Mayor Knudsen’s request, Patrolman Tarino will e-mail a drawing detailing the proposed extensions of the right-turn-only/bike lanes.

3. Boards and Committees - Fields Committee

Timothy Cronin, Director of Parks and Recreation, was present.

Ms. Mailander pointed out that the composition and responsibilities of the Fields Committee are part of the overall Athletic Fields and Recreational Facilities Use Policy dated January 1, 2007 and approved under Resolution #07-12.

Councilman Hache questioned why the Fields Committee did not have by-laws. Referring to the composition and responsibilities of the Fields Committee, as stated in Resolution #07-12, Councilman Hache questioned why members of this committee are not appointed by the Village Council, since the Fields Committee advises the Village Council.

Councilman Hache pointed out that Resolution #07-12 states that a key purpose of the Fields Committee is to respond to public inquiries and complaints. Resolution #07-12 also authorizes the Fields Committee to institute disciplinary action, including restricting access to groups who abuse the Field/Facility Use privileges. Resolution #07-12 also identifies the primary responsibility of the Fields Committee as the allocation of fields and facilities. Councilman Hache suggested that the allocation of fields and facilities may be handled more efficiently through the Village and the Board of Education, using software that would not only manage scheduling of fields, but it could provide activity registrations, facilities reservations, league scheduling, custom reporting and dashboards, past memberships, and point-of-sale inventory control for an overall picture of facility usage.

Councilman Hache recalled that, previously, there was a Sports Council that handled grievances and complaints. Mr. Cronin explained that there currently is a grievance process. A group or individual with a grievance first goes before the board of the particular sport in which they are involved. If satisfaction is not received, the group or individual would then go before the Fields Committee. If the group or individual wishes to appeal the decision further, they could then go before the Parks, Recreation and Conservation Board (PRC) Board for a final determination.

Mayor Knudsen expressed a concern that, under the current process, there was no higher authority than the PRC Board.

Councilman Hache spoke of the importance of impartiality when handling grievance appeals. Mr. Cronin noted that there are no members affiliated with sports on the PRC Board. Councilman Hache suggested eliminating the Fields Committee in the grievance appeal process.

Village Attorney Matthew Rogers agreed that removing the Fields Committee from this process made sense. He pointed out that neither members of the Village Council or members of the Board of Education should get involved in the grievance appeal process. If sports groups cannot handle and resolve grievances on their own, Mr. Rogers suggested having someone who oversees the sports groups make a decision or determination.

Mayor Knudsen suggested having a Parks and Recreation Sub-Committee for the handling of grievances.

Councilwoman Walsh stated that she was on the Fields Committee for two years. Grievances usually came first to the Fields Committee and then to the specific sport associations such as Ridgewood Baseball and Softball Association (RBSA) or Ridgewood Lacrosse Association. Councilwoman Walsh cited two instances involving neighbor complaints, and these issue were addressed by the sport associations themselves. Other grievances included field monopolizing or field lighting. Mr. Rogers noted that these types of grievances are easily handled. In instances when a participant in the sports organization is aggrieved by something that happened within the sports organization, another level of unaffiliated, independent, objective review is needed.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Cronin explained that the volunteer who schedules the fields does it for all the groups. He receives approximately 10,000 e-mails each season. Mr. Cronin did not feel the Village had enough staff to offer the individual attention that scheduling requires. There is a calendar, indicating the blocks of time allocated to each sports group, posted on the Recreation Division website. Outside of the sports groups, residents e-mail Mr. Cronin for a request to use a field. Mr. Cronin then contacts the volunteer scheduler to see if an accommodation can be made.

Mayor Knudsen recalled receiving approximately 100 e-mails from parents concerned that soccer camp would not take place the Monday after school dismissed for the summer. A software scheduling system connecting the Village and the Board of Education could have resolved this issue long before it became a matter of urgency.

Ms. Mailander stated that she will look into the scheduling software; but she noted that the Village does not have the staff to devote the amount of time needed to schedule field usage.

Mr. Rogers suggested that the Board of Education may already be using scheduling software for their indoor facilities. Ms. Mailander stated that this will be investigated.

4. Endorse Bergen County Open Space Trust Fund Program - The                                               James Rose Center

Ms. Mailander explained that the James Rose Center is applying to the Bergen County Open Space Trust for a grant to repair and improve the Zendo Pavilion, located on the property known as the James Rose Center. Ms. Mailander explained that this is similar to the Community Development Block Grant, where the Village Council acknowledges the non-profit organization, and feels their cause is worthy. No funds from the Village are obligated. The requirement for endorsing resolutions from a municipality’s governing body for open space is a new procedure.

5. Title 59 Approval - Painting Curbs Yellow

Councilwoman Walsh explained that the yellow lines indicating “no parking” at the end of roads need to be repainted if they have faded. Vehicles are currently parking right up to the stop signs. Vehicles parked at the end of roads obstruct site vision at intersections. Both Councilwoman Walsh and Mayor Knudsen are observing this dangerous situation on the streets where they live.

It was the consensus of the Village Councilmembers to approve the painting of curbs yellow to indicate, “no parking”.

6. Amend Chapter 145 - Fees - Tree Protection

Ms. Mailander explained that when this ordinance was adopted, a fee ordinance was not introduced. The ordinance amending Chapter 145 will require a Tree Removal and Protection Permit, however, the fee will be $0.00. If a tree is taken down and the owner does not wish to replace it with another tree on his/her own property, the owner will be required to pay a Replacement Tree Value Fee of $225.00 per tree.   These funds will be put into a pool to purchase trees in areas throughout the Village. Ms. Mailander noted that a property owner may remove invasive species of trees located on their property without replacing them.

1. Operations
2. Appoint Clean Communities Coordinator and Recycling Program                                            Coordinator

Ms. Mailander explained that John Spano, a long-time employee of the Village, is retiring shortly. Richard Calbi, Director of Operations, is recommending the appointment of Daniel Kiely, Superintendent of Public Works, as the Clean Communities Coordinator and Recycling Coordinator effective July 1, 2017. Mr. Kiely is a Certified Public Works Manager and has completed the necessary course work and training for his Clean Communities Coordinator Certification. He is in the process of attending Rutgers University for his Recycling Coordinator Certification. These positions are required by statute.

It was the consensus of the Village Council to prepare a resolution appoint Mr. Kiely to these two positions.

2. Purchase of Property

Mayor Knudsen explained the proposal to purchase the Elks Club building to house all of the Water Department Operations under one roof, making it a more effective operation. This is an opportunity to expand the Village’s municipal campus. Negotiations have taken place.

Ms. Mailander explained that, at the Village Council Public Meeting on July 12, 2017, a Capital Improvement Fund Ordinance will be introduced to fund this purchase. The ordinance will then be considered for adoption in August. This purchase will bring all the employees, controls, administration, and lab from the current building located in Midland Park, NJ, to one building at the Village Hall Municipal Complex. The Glen Avenue Water Facility will remain.

Mayor Knudsen noted that this purchase will bring the Water Department to the municipal complex at a much lower cost and at a more efficient operating capacity than what was indicated in a footprint study conducted in 2016.

Councilman Walsh stated that she was opposed to purchasing the Elks Club building. Councilwoman Walsh stated her reasons for opposing this purchase as follows: only 20 employees will be using the building; the building is in need of repair, bringing the total cost to approximately $3 million; there is available space throughout Bergen County to house the facility, particularly since Ridgewood Water services other towns; this purchase has not been discussed with the other towns serviced by Ridgewood Water; and the money could be used for other purposes.

Councilman Voigt also stated that he was opposed to purchasing the Elks Club building. Councilman Voigt expressed a concern with the potential cost to the Village from a pending lawsuit with the other municipalities serviced by Ridgewood Water, asserting that Ridgewood taxpayers benefited by the increase rate by offset of taxes.

Mayor Knudsen noted that regardless of the lawsuit, the operations of Ridgewood Water need to be improved and need to continue servicing customers in all the municipalities. Mayor Knudsen pointed out that the building in Midland Park is prone to flooding. She also noted that the movement of the building to the municipal complex will make it easier for residents to pay their water bills.

Mr. Rogers explained that the complainant in the pending lawsuit is asserting that the Village of Ridgewood allocated expenses that should have been adjusted through the Water Utility Budget. The litigation called for the Village to pay for damages that occurred as a result of the improper allocation. Mayor Knudsen pointed out that this is not money that comes from the Water Department.

Councilman Hache stated that he was initially concerned with the purchase of the Elks Building, particularly because it is in need of repair. He noted, however, that Village Hall has become very crowded. Councilman Hache felt this is an opportunity to consolidate the Water Department operations more efficiently and geographically in one place. It will probably be the last opportunity to expand the municipal complex.

7. MANAGER’S REPORT

Dog License Renewals - Ms. Mailander stated that the Health Department would like to remind everyone that the 2017 Dog License Renewals are due during the month of June. A $20 late fee will be charged for all renewals received after June 30, 2017.

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.

July 4^th Fireworks - Ms. Mailander stated that details are posted on the Village website, as well as the July 4^th Committee website, www.ridgewoodjuly4.com. Tickets can be purchased on-line. There will be a Super 50/50 Raffle Fundraiser to support this all-volunteer event. The tickets cost $100 and a total of 600 tickets will be sold. The grand prize is $25,000 and there are ten, $500 prizes. Prize money is subject to taxation.

Senior Tuesdays at Graydon Pool - Ms. Mailander reported that Senior Tuesdays began a few weeks ago. The first day, only one senior citizen attended, as the day was very hot. On the second day, June 27^th, it was a beautiful day and twenty-six senior citizens attended. Senior Tuesdays came about as a Bar Mitzvah Project by Siobhan Winograd, who visited with the senior citizens and cosponsored paying for their lunch. Each Friend of Ridgewood assisted with the initial funding and a good time was had by all. Transportation was offered; however, it was not utilized.

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 to the Kasschau Memorial Shell for Ridgecrest residents on July 18^th and July 25^th. Chairs will also be provided.  

Graydon Pool - Ms. Mailander reported that Graydon Pool has been very popular this summer. Graydon Pool Seasonal Membership Badges are available for purchase on-line by clicking on the photograph of Graydon Pool on the Village website, which will take you to Community Pass.

Ridgewood Guild - Ms. Mailander announced that the Ridgewood Guild has begun their “Music in the Night” and “Art in the Park” programs, which will be held every Friday night through September 1, 2017.   These programs provide various types of music throughout the Central Business District (CBD) and artwork for sale at Memorial Park at Van Neste Square, benefiting 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. There is a schedule posted in the lobby of Village Hall and on the Ridgewood Guild’s website.

July 4^th Closures - Ms. Mailander reported that Village Hall will be closed on July 4^th. There will be no recycling or garbage pick-up and the Recycling Center will be closed.

10. COUNCIL REPORTS

Councilman Voigt thanked Siobhan Winograd for putting together Senior Tuesdays at Graydon Pool. It was a very enjoyable event for everyone who attended.

Planning Board - Councilman Voigt reported that the Planning Board met in a special session on Monday, June 26, 2017. KS Broad, a multi-unit development located on the corner of Franklin Avenue and Broad Street, was approved, with a number of stipulations. Councilman Voigt spoke highly of the developer, who has been working to make sure the development is one that the Village will like.

Library Board - Councilman Voigt stated that the Library Board met on June 27, 2017. There will be a three-day fundraising event scheduled for October 18^th to October 21^st called, “Caddystacks”.

Ridgewood Arts Council (RAC) - Councilwoman Walsh reminded everyone that Ashley Zielinski will be holding a 3D Printing Workshop on July 29, 2017.

Central Business District Advisory Committee (CBDAC) - Councilman Hache stated that the website is almost complete. Each Ridgewood business will get a registration link and the owners will be responsible for the content and the appearance. The CBDAC is continuing to look at the process of beautifying the downtown area. CBDAC recommended that a portion of the tax revenue that commercial properties pay to the Village be invested back into the Central Business District (CBD). Councilman Hache thanked the volunteers that have been working on beautifying the downtown area. Cynthia Halaby and the Women Gardeners of Ridgewood have done a tremendous job at Van Neste Square. The Shade Tree Commission and CDBAC will combine their efforts and look at the existing inventory of tree and tree wells to see where improvements can be made. Decorations are being purchased, which include banners and lighting. Ridgewood is committed to supporting businesses as much as possible.

Councilman Hache spoke of his pride in all the work and effort that went into providing Senior Tuesdays at Graydon Pool.

July 4^th Committee - Mayor Knudsen invited everyone to visit the Ridgewood July 4^th website to check out the planned festivities. The Ridgewood July 4^th Celebration is an all-volunteer program. It is a community-funded event that receives no direct funding from the Village of Ridgewood. Mayor Knudsen encouraged everyone to visit the businesses that support this event.   Requests for information on how to purchase raffle tickets can be e-mailed to, info@ridgewoodjuly4.com, and this information can be found on the website. The theme for this year’s celebration is, “Honoring Those Who Serve”, recognizing and honoring the many men and women who dedicate their work and life to others through the military, police, fire, EMS, or Civil Service. Festivities will begin at 9:00 a.m. with the flag raising at Wilsey Square, with the parade following. Firework gates open at 6:00 p.m. Mayor Knudsen invited everyone to attend this outstanding event.

125^th Graduating Class of Ridgewood High School - Mayor Knudsen congratulated the Ridgewood High School Class of 2017 and wished them luck in their future endeavors. The graduation was beautiful and it was a treat for the Village Councilmembers to be up front and close to the new graduates.

Community Relations Advisory Board (CRAB) - Mayor Knudsen stated that CRAB met last week. There was a spirited discussion about how to move forward. Mayor Knudsen met with the Chairperson and one member this morning and shared a very productive and positive dialogue.

Planning Board - Mayor Knudsen explained that the Planning Board approves site plan applications. Site plan applications are compliant applications that are legally, permissible applications that comply with zoning laws. The Zoning Ordinances, for the multi-unit developments, were adopted by Village Council majority on March 23, 2016. The Planning Board opportunities exist only to create stipulations and protections for the Village, as best they can.

Mayor Knudsen asked Mr. Rogers to explain the reason that a public hearing, pertaining to the settlement with KS Broad and Enclave on a Declaratory Judgement Action, is scheduled for September 13, 2017.

Mr. Rogers explained that in 2015, the Village of Ridgewood filed a Declaratory Judgement Action to deal with the fair-share obligation, that every town in New Jersey has, to provide affordable housing within its boundaries. Part and parcel to that, was an aspect of the development plan for the Village that dealt with the Village’s own affordable housing needs, which has been ongoing since the obligation was first established by the initial Mount Laurel Decision. The Superior Court Law Division is now in charge of every town’s affordable housing obligation and must make sure that this obligation is adhered to and properly dispensed to provide a realistic opportunity for affordable housing to be built and constructed in each town. In the Declaratory Judgement Process, it is typical for a Judge to appoint a Court-Appointed Master to oversee each town’s progress with regard to coming up with its newest, fair-share obligation or affordable housing plan. An affordable housing plan details how a town will meet their obligation, including a determination of location and establishing the allocated need of units over the course of the next 15 to 20 years. Last year, ordinances were established for four particular sites in the CBD that allow for multi-unit developments, along with a component of affordable housing in each one of those projects. As directed by the Court, the Village has been meeting for over one year with the developers to discuss and establish parameters for reasonable development of these projects. These discussions included some deviations from what the applications were before the Planning Board. (Mr. Rogers noted that when an application is a conforming application, such as the application submitted by KS Broad, it means that what they proposed on the site in the development application conformed to the requirements and the criteria of the ordinances that were adopted last year. When an applicant does that, and has a site plan application that fully conforms to the ordinance, there is very little that a Planning Board can do to change the criteria of the development proposed.) Through some of the development discussions, the Village received some deviations that are believed to be beneficial to proper development. With the KS Broad and the Enclave projects, agreements and understandings were reached with the developers that will be brought before the public. The law requires the holding of a Public Meeting to settle any of these matters that deal with this particular litigation. In order to be as transparent as possible, the public hearing was scheduled for September 13, 2017, so that people are back from vacations and it can be fully discussed and explored by the public in front of the Village Council. The terms of whatever conceptual agreement the Village has will be discussed at that hearing. The Village Council will then make a determination whether or not there should be adjustments to those terms, how they feel about the terms, and possibly agree upon a settlement. This settlement can still be turned down by the Court; however, Mr. Rogers understood that the Court Appointed Master has given his support for the concepts that have been discussed.

Mayor Knudsen thanked everyone involved in Senior Tuesday. Mayor Knudsen said that talks have begun on expanding a few extra days for Ridgecrest Seniors.

Mayor Knudsen thanked the Women Gardeners, Cynthia Halaby, and Barbara Ferrante for the beautiful work they did at Van Neste Square.

9. PUBLIC COMMENTS

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 members to visit Ridgecrest.

Bradford Matthews, 366 Glenwood Road, supported the need for larger signs and larger fines for violations at the Glenwood Road Railroad Crossing. He like 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 ago. 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.

Mary Meakem, 630 Morningside Road, stated that as she was gathering signatures for the petition against the closing of Glenwood Road, neighbors passionately expressed how this would negatively impact them. Ms. Meakem thanked the Village Council for considering other options.

Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, referred to photographs posted on social media depicting accidents on Glenwood Road. Mr. Loving observed that larger signage was needed. Mr. Loving noted that, if Glenwood Road is made one-way, larger signage and/or barriers would still be needed. Mr. Loving asked for statistics on whether or not NJ Transit ever posted one of their own Police Officers at this location to enforce the law that vehicles are prohibited from turning around on the tracks. Mr. Loving also expressed a concern with problems that will be created resulting from GPS mapping systems directing vehicles to Glenwood Road without drivers knowing that it is a one-way roadway.

Mr. Loving expressed concern with spending $3 million dollars on moving the Ridgewood Water Operations to the municipal campus. He noted that technology equipment by today’s standards is getting smaller and the number of employees needed to operate it is reduced. Mr. Loving asked if the facility in Midland Park, NJ would be sold to help offset the relocation costs.

Joseph Ferrante, 610 Hillcrest Road, thanked the Village Council for the thoughtful debate concerning solutions to the State’s safety concerns on Glenwood Road. Mr. Ferrante felt that the Village’s representatives in the State Legislator, namely Senator Kevin O’Toole, Assemblyman Kevin Rooney, and Assemblyman David Russo, should be contacted. Mr. Ferrante noted that since these legislators are not on the Senate Transportation Committee, Senator Robert Gordon, a representative of an adjacent jurisdiction, should be contacted. Mr. Ferrante suggested making smaller changes around the critical turn on Glenwood Road, such as the relocation of a telephone pole, the removal of a 10-foot asphalt embankment, and improving, moving, reducing, realigning or relocating the sidewalk. The traffic impact that would result in the closing of Glenwood Road is significant and cannot be minimized. Maple Avenue, in particular, will be greatly impacted. Mr. Ferrante expressed concern with a reduction in emergency response time. Mr. Ferrante felt it was important for the Village to show, through better signage and enforcement, that affirmative steps are being taken, which will allow additional time to make a good judgement on Glenwood Road. Mr. Ferrante also noted that if the efficiencies of the Ho-Ho-Kus Train Station are jeopardized, there will be more traffic at the Ridgewood Train Station. He urged the Village Council to consider the impact on the Ridgewood Train Station, as well.

10. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION

Deputy Village Clerk Donna Jackson read Resolution #17-196 to go into Closed Session as follows:

11. ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Hache, seconded by Councilwoman Walsh, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Work Session was adjourned at 11:56 p.m.

                                                                                                _____________________________

                                                                                                                     Susan Knudsen      

                                                                                                                           Mayor

_____________________________

            Donna M. Jackson

          Deputy Village Clerk

A REGULAR WORK SESSION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY ON JUNE 28, 2017 AT 7:30 P.M.

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, Voigt, Walsh, and Mayor Knudsen. Councilman Sedon was 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 and all first responders.

2. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

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

Cynthia Halaby, 374 Evergreen Place, spoke about the train station parking that was removed from tonight’s agenda. Mrs. Halaby recalled that at a prior Village Council meeting, it was stated that only the Ridgewood Railroad Station building, and not the green oval in front of it known as the Train Station Plaza, was listed on the NJ Register of Historic Places. Ms. Halaby stated that she telephoned Andrea Tingey, Principal Historic Preservation Specialist at the New Jersey Historic Preservation Office, who told her that the Ridgewood Village Center Railroad Station Historic District includes the train station building and the entire area of Garber Square and Wilsey Square. The whole area is listed in the NJ Register of Historic Places. If the area is converted to parking, and is within the limits of the NJ Registered Listed Historic District, prior authorization must be received from the Commission of the Department of Environmental Protection. Ms. Tingey stated that an application prepared by Village Engineer Christopher Rutishauser was received on June 20, 2017. Ms. Halaby stated that she received a copy of this application, this evening. Ms. Halaby felt the application was erroneous in many counts. As an example, she noted that the application states that there will be “minimal decrease in the greenspace”, when, in fact, it will be reduced by 80%. As another example, Ms. Halaby noted a reference to the parking deck having been proposed and turned down numerous time, when, in fact, the parking deck is on tonight’s agenda for discussion. Ms. Halaby stated that she would like to continue to discuss the inconsistencies of this application with the Village Council members at a later time.

Hans Lehman, 234 Union Street, referred to a discussion held at the June 14, 2017 Village Council meeting which addressed the Zabriskie/Schedler Committee out of Parks and Recreation; the Community Relations Advisory Board (CRAB); and the Financial Advisory Board (FAC). Mr. Lehman felt that the suggested reorganization of these committees to an ad hoc system was an attempt to remove certain volunteers, as political payback and as a form of intimidation. Mr. Lehman noted that CRAB, of which his wife is Chairperson, has been in existence now for nearly 30 years. Hundreds of volunteers have served on CRAB, and the concerns of hundreds of victims, effected by violence, hatred and racism, have been heard by CRAB. Mr. Lehman stated that volunteers are an integral part of the operation of a municipality, and volunteerism should be encouraged. He did not feel an ad hoc system would work for CRAB. CRAB is a standing body that, over decades, has developed a referral system for those residents who have been victimized. He urged the Village Councilmembers to consider the volunteers and victims when considering this issue.

Siobhan Winograd, 274 Ivy Place, described CRAB as a group of well-meaning, wonderful people who have a lot of different viewpoints. Hate, bias and intimidation are complex structures that have seized society for a long time, and require diversity to deal with them effectively. Ms. Winograd spoke of her pride in how the residents and merchants of Ridgewood embraced diversity by flying the Gay Pride Flag at their homes and businesses on June 1^st.

Ann Marie Agnello, 31 Clinton Avenue, urged the Village Councilmembers to consider the safety implications of amending the Clinton Avenue parking ordinance. She expressed concerns with children and turning vehicles; the movement of parked vehicles during restricted times; and the impact of traffic flow on West Ridgewood Avenue and Godwin Avenue. Mayor Knudsen pointed out that a discussion on the amended ordinance will be held this evening, and a public hearing on the amended ordinance is scheduled for July 12, 2017. Mayor Knudsen will e-mail documents associated with this issue to Ms. Agnello.

Gregory Brown, 444 Linwood Avenue, thanked the Village Councilmembers for their service to the Village. Mr. Brown asked for a status update regard the water conservation methods being implemented by the other municipalities that are serviced by Ridgewood Water.

Mr. Brown expressed safety concerns with debris from the Fourth of July Celebration and children attending day camp. He noted that it took well over a week to clean-up after the Fourth of July Celebration last year.

Bill McCandless, 71 Ridge Road, described the Ridgecrest entrance to the train station as a disaster; full of weeds and overgrown. He urged the Village Council to bring this to the attention of New Jersey Transit.

Mr. McCandless spoke about the importance of establishing a reasonable speed limit on Village roads, as well as adding an increased level of enforcement, particularly with the traffic increase anticipated as a result of the new, multi-unit residential developments.  

Sean McCooe, 66 Walthery Avenue, urged the Village Council not to change the dual access of the street going down to Ho-Ho-Kus over the train tracks (Glenwood Road).

Mr. McCooe also asked the Village Council to look into removing the bamboo and overgrown vegetation on Crest Road, that impedes a clear view of fireworks.

Wayne Angelbeck, 630 Morningside Road, asked if traffic studies were conducted before a decision was made to change the traffic pattern of Glenwood Road to one-way going eastbound. He felt that more time and public input should be required before any decision is made on the Glenwood Road Crossing.

There being no further public comment, Mayor Knudsen closed the meeting to the public.

Mayor Knudsen stated that the Village Council will follow-up on the status of the water conservation ordinances with the other municipalities serviced by Ridgewood Water.

In reference to changing the Glenwood Avenue Crossing, Mayor Knudsen stated that this issue has been under discussion since the fall of 2016. Village Manager, Heather Mailander, urged everyone wishing to comment on this issue to visit the Village website to view the NJ DOT memorandum of record and contact information before the July 7, 2017 deadline. Ms. Mailander noted that NJ DOT owns Glenwood Avenue, so the decision to change the traffic pattern of Glenwood Avenue is made by NJ DOT, not the Village Council. Mayor Knudsen stated that she will e-mail related documents from the NJDOT to Mr. Angelbeck, and she requested that he forward it to any other interested person.

Ms. Mailander stated that the Village will look into the overgrowth at the north end of the train platform.

Mayor Knudsen re-opened the public comment portion of the meeting.

Joseph Ferrante, 610 Hillcrest Road, pointed out that even though the decision to change the traffic pattern of Glenwood Avenue is made by NJ DOT, not the Village Council, NJDOT is looking for substantive input from the Village Council. The Village should not be passive. Although this is a state decision, local government carries a great deal of weight. Mayor Knudsen assured everyone that the Village Council will discuss this issue and take a very strong position on it.

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

3. PRESENTATION

1. Open Space Survey Findings

Ralph Currey, Chairperson of the Open Space Committee, introduced Jim Bostler, a member of the Open Space Committee and the driving force behind the Open Space Survey. Mr. Currey explained that the Open Space Survey was conducted in response to a requirement of the Green Acres Planning and Senate Program for the Village to have an updated Open Space and Recreation Plan. The Open Space and Recreation Plan is part of the Master Plan. The NJ Green Acres Program specifies the elements that are required to be set forth in the Open Space and Recreation Plan. One of the requirements is a “needs analysis”. Taking the industry numerical standard, used by organizations such as the National Recreation and Parks Association, of 10 acres of open space per 1,000 residents, a needs analysis conducted in 2010 used a population of 25,000 to determine the need for 250 acres of open space. Since that time, the standards have changed, as it was determined that this method was more of a “one-size-fits all” approach, and may result in unrealistic numbers. Mr. Currey explained that the revised Open Space Recreation Plan will use both a numerical standard, as well as a community-based needs assessment.

Mr. Bostler explained that the Open Space Survey was written by members of the Open Space Committee, as well as outside experts in market research. The Open Space Committee took the Voters Registration List and created a random sample of Ridgewood households. Duplications were eliminated. In April, surveys were sent to the first 2,100 households that came out of the random sample. (Mr. Bostler noted that there are approximately 8,500 households in Ridgewood, so 2,100 households represented a 25% sampling.) The goal was to receive at least 360 responses, and 413 responses were received. The survey had a 95% confidence level.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Bostler explained that to combat fraud, access to the on-line survey response form was restricted to one-time only and from only one computer IP address. Mr. Currey added that the survey was only open for two weeks. Mayor Knudsen noted that she observed information in the lobby of Village Hall that identified the link to this survey. Mr. Bostler and Mr. Currey suggested that other groups may have provided this information. Mr. Bostler also noted that the survey permitted respondents without computers to bring the paper survey to Village Hall, where Mr. Bostler would enter the information into the computer for them. Mr. Bostler assured the Mayor that he was confident with the accuracy of the numbers.

Mr. Bostler listed the recommendations of the Open Space Committee, broken down into the categories of needs, balance, awareness, and use of website, as follows:

Needs

• Over 60% of the respondents would support the acquisition of more open space.
• People were generally satisfied with the conditions of the parks; but they often noted that some improvement is needed
• There was no consensus as to the funding of the acquisitions or improvements, although there is a willingness to invest

Balance (passive versus active open space)

• Over half of the respondents wanted a combination of passive and active open space
• Active-only or passive-only acquisitions should be carefully considered based upon specific interests

Awareness

• There must be better communication on the location and accessibility of all parks, including possible tie-ins with Ridgewood Wildscape, Ridgewood Shade Tree or links on the Village website. Access may also be an issue as to parking, mobility, and user-friendly access for seniors and other groups

Use of Website

• Over 90% of the respondents indicated that they were aware of the Village website, but only a little over half of the respondents used it. More attention is required such as, the ease of use, making sure information is current, providing shortcuts for special needs, and providing more tie-ins to local groups.

Mr. Bostler listed some of the results of the survey, as follows:

• Over 60% of the respondents would support the acquisition of more open space.
• Approximately 39% felt that passive-only open space should be added in the future
• Approximately 9% wanted dedicated, active-only open space
• Over 50% wanted a combination of active and passive open space to be added
• Approximately 44% wanted available funding to go toward land acquisition
• Approximately 56% wanted available funding to go toward existing open space

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Bostler explained that active open space is defined by activities that are scheduled in a more formalized basis. Passive open space is more informal and individualistic. Mr. Currey added that an active open space is more like a specifically constructed playing field. Mayor Knudsen noted that these definitions were not clearly stated in the survey. Mr. Currey agreed that the answers will need to be interpreted to a certain degree for this reason, as well as the fact that many people are also unaware of the presence of existing open space within the Village.  

Mr. Bostler continued with the survey findings, as follows:

Choices were presented on how to support funding of the acquisition of additional open space.

• The questioned was answered by 293 of the 413 respondents, suggesting that 29% of the respondents were against any additional funding
• 35% chose an increase property tax surcharge earmarked for open space
• 21% chose a Seller/Buyer Transfer Fee attached to future home sales
• Very little support for a one-time assessment of current properties
• 31% chose a one-time assessment for new construction
• Half of the respondents would support an increase in Ridgewood’s Open Space Tax being put onto the election ballot as a public question; half of the respondents would not support this.
• Almost 90% indicated that they have used open space, especially Van Neste Square and Veterans Park
• Almost 98% were familiar with Graydon Pool; with 55% indicating that they don’t use it and only 3% indicating that they were unaware of Graydon Pool
• Over 50% were aware of the Village Tennis Courts, but did not use them
• 62% were unaware of Gypsy Pond
• 64% were unaware of North (inaudible) Park and Pleasant Park (Mr. Bostler noted that this figure may have been reduced if Pleasant Park was identified as Hawes Field)
• There was a great deal of satisfaction with the hiking and exercise trails
• There was a lesser degree of satisfaction with the 60-foot and 90-foot baseball fields and the softball fields (Mr. Bostler pointed out that there was a low response rate in this area considering that not all respondents were associated with sports. He suggested conducting additional surveys with people involved in sports to get a more accurate result.)
• Overall, 85% of the respondents were very happy with the Ridgewood parks and outdoor recreation facilities, with only 15% expressing disappointment.
• Two-thirds of the respondents were satisfied or very satisfied with the way the parks and outdoor recreation facilities were maintained.
• 94% of the respondents were familiar with Ridgewood’s website; however, over half do not use it on a regular basis.

Mr. Bostler thanked the Village Council for giving the Open Space Committee the $1,200 funding to conduct this survey, and the opportunity to present the information this evening.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Bostler explained that the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) recommends that a minimum of 3% of the land area be set aside for recreational purposes. However, this 3% figure is ambiguous, as it is unclear on how the land area would be calculated. The National Recreation and Parks Association suggests setting aside 10 acres per 1,000 population for recreational purposes. Mr. Bostler recalled that, a few years ago, the Village engaged a consulting firm to prepare a recreation plan, which used the standard of 10.5 acres per 1,000 population.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Bostler stated that he received positive feedback when presenting this survey to the Parks and Recreation Department.

Mayor Knudsen thanked Mr. Currey, Mr. Bostler, and the Open Space Committee for their time, effort and service to the community.

4. DISCUSSION
5. Ridgewood Water
6. Award of Contract - Infrared Asphalt Restoration

Ms. Mailander explained that this contract is for infrared asphalt surface repair, asphalt trench patching, and miscellaneous curb and sidewalk repair at various locations. There were 11 registered plan holders and 3 bid packages were received. J. Fletcher Creamer Construction was the apparent low bidder at $1,267 for the aggregate amount of all the unit items. Their bid package was complete. The bid will be shared by the Village with Ridgewood Water Company, as well the possibility of other communities who have expressed an interest in using this low bidder for their pavement/concrete restoration work in the past. The total amount will not exceed $80,000.

1. Budget
2. Bergen County Open Space Trust Fund Grant Application

Timothy Cronin, Director, Parks and Recreation, was present.

Ms. Mailander explained that, annually, the Parks and Recreation Department applies for a grant through the Bergen County Open Space Trust Fund Municipal Program Park Improvement. This is a matching fund grant. It was determined that replacing the 12-year-old synthetic turf at Maple Park East was a priority; a use acceptable under the grant guidelines. The replacement will provide a safe, durable surface to exist in multi-purpose fields, which encompasses playing soccer, little league baseball, girls softball, lacrosse, football and additional active and passive recreational play purposes. The application grant process requires a public hearing, which is scheduled for August 2, 2017.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Cronin explained that the proposal is to replace the turf only. There will be some minor regrading of the sublayer. The work will comply with all regulations regarding concussion prevention.

Mayor Knudsen pointed out that page 3 of the application, under Historic Preservation Assessment, should state that there are historic sites that are contiguous with this property (Graydon Pool and Lester Stable). Village Attorney Matthew Rogers agreed with Mayor Knudsen. Mr. Cronin stated that he will contact the County to clarify this information.

1. Policy
2. Ordinance to Amend Chapter 260 - Trees and Shrubs

Ms. Mailander explained that, do to the fact that there was an attachment to the original ordinance which was adopted in June, which was not published nor was the Village Council aware of, the process is starting over with the ordinance being reintroduced with a different ordinance number and the scheduling of a public hearing on July 12, 2017.  

1. Parking
2. Rebid Central Valet Services

Ms. Mailander explained that there were 4 plan holders eligible to bid. The Village received one bid from LAZ Parking of New York City, with a quote of $1,323, for a 26-week total of $103,194. After further review of the bid received, it is recommended that the bid be rejected and the referenced work be rebid with reduced hours of service. Originally, the valet services were proposed for Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights; now the proposal is for Friday and Saturday nights only.

Councilwoman Walsh moved to suspend the Work Session and convene a Special Public Meeting. Councilman Voigt seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       Councilman Sedon

ABSTAIN:     None

5. SPECIAL PUBLIC MEETING - SEE SEPARATE MINUTES

Councilwoman Walsh moved to adjourn the Special Public Meeting and reconvene the Work session. Councilman Hache seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES:                        Councilmembers Hache, Voigt, Walsh and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:            None

ABSENT:       Councilman Sedon

ABSTAIN:     None

6. DISCUSSION (CONTINUED)
7. Ridgewood Water
8. Lease of Property for Co-Location of Wireless Telecommunications Antennas - Glen Avenue Tank Location

Ms. Mailander explained that Ridgewood Water accepted bids for the above reference location. The project involves the lease of tank and ground space for the installation of new communication and related equipment on Ridgewood Water’s Glen Avenue Water Tank located in Midland Park, NJ. Three bid specifications were requested and received. The bid documents were reviewed and it is recommended that the bid be awarded to the highest bidder, Scientel Solutions, out of Lombard, Illinois. The award is contingent upon negotiating a final lease.

2. Award Contract - Polyphosphate Pumps for Corrosion Control

Ms. Mailander explained that in accordance with the USEPA Sanitary Survey, Federal and State lead and copper rules, and subsequent Administrative Order and NJDEP Corrosion Control Directive, Ridgewood Water must provide disinfection and corrosion control, respectively, to prevent bacteria, viruses, lead, and copper from leaching into the water supply. In order to accomplish this, sodium hypochlorite and ortho polyphosphate is fed into the system. In order to achieve the required level of treatment, chemical and polyphosphate pumps are utilized, as manufactured by Prominent and available only through Dave Heiner Associates in Parsippany, New Jersey. It is recommended that the contract be awarded to Dave Heiner Associates in the amount of $127,000. Funding for this purchase is contained in the Water Utility Capital Budget.

1. Parking
2. Update on Parking Garage

Robert Rooney, C.F.O. and Parking Utility Director, was present.

Ms. Mailander explained the following options to consider for the parking garage on Hudson Street:

• Sell the Hudson Street Parking Lot, as it has been determined that there is no longer a need for that parking lot for public use. Bids could be requested for the sale of the property. The sale would be open to anyone, and the Village cannot restrict what can be built on that lot.
• Lease the Hudson Street Parking Lot, and request that a parking garage be built on this lot under Village specifications. Under State Statute, leasing arrangements cannot be made for profit and fees.
• Award a contract for a design and project manager. Once the design is complete, the bid process for construction would begin. Bids must comply with all aspects of the State Purchasing Law.
• Declare Hudson Street as a redevelopment property. This would involve hearings at both the Village Council level and the Planning Board level. Once accomplished, there are no restrictions as to how the developer is selected or how the design and construction process is handled.

The Village Councilmembers discussed these options. Councilwoman Walsh felt the most feasible option was to own the property and build upon it. Councilman Voigt agreed.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Rooney stated that the third option, to award a contract for a design and project manager, was the most viable from a financial standpoint.

Mayor Knudsen also agree that the third option, awarding a contract for a design and project manager, was the best. However, she felt that the fourth option, declaring Hudson Street as a redevelopment property, should be kept as an alternative option. She expressed a concern that the fourth option would be a long process, but she noted that there is the benefit of there being no restrictions.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Rooney stated that he is recommending another Walker Study.

Councilwoman Walsh spoke of the importance of including the intensity of traffic, anticipated from the Dayton and KS Broad multi-family developments, in the Walker Study. Mr. Rooney explained that Village professionals will meet with the consultants and go through all the changes that have occurred since the last study was completed. This information will be incorporated into their projections.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Rooney explained that, previously, once the garage design was known, a traffic study took place based upon the garage design. Mr. Rooney felt that the traffic study could be done simultaneously with the bid process, and the Village can either ask the successful bidder to include that in their process, or it can be done separately, but at the same time.  

Councilwoman Walsh spoke of the importance of defining the uses of the parking garage, so that it does not get filled-up by Central Business District (CBD) resident parking. Mr. Rooney recalled that the previous Walker Study contained a draft report of how the garage should be used. This report included where people should park and the percentages of parking for commuters, shoppers/diners, etc. This report could be updated with current information.

It was the consensus of the Village Council to choose option three, the awarding of a contract for a design and project manager. The Walker Study will be discussed at the July 12, 2017 Village Council meeting. Since the Village Council has already appointed a traffic consultant, he will be asked to conduct a review before the Walker Study is revisited.

Councilman Hache asked how the parking uses were allocated by use in the original Walker Report. Mr. Rooney stated that he did not know this information offhand; however, he stated that he will forward copies of the original Walker Report to all the Councilmembers.

Councilman Hache spoke of the importance of prohibiting overnight parking.

Under questioning by Councilman Voigt, Mr. Rooney explained that the Parking Utility will support the garage. An analysis will be conducted to determine parking rates.

2. Clinton Avenue Parking - Safety Concerns

Councilwoman Walsh explained that the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee had the following questions regarding the hours that Clinton Avenue is proposed to be closed:

• During the designated restricted access hours, will anyone other than residents be able to access Clinton Avenue?
• If someone parked on Clinton Avenue during the day and needed to leave during the hours Clinton Avenue is closed, how would this be regulated?

Councilman Voigt felt that since there are no sidewalks on Clinton Avenue, the ordinance should not be amended.

Mayor Knudsen suggested prohibiting parking beginning one half hour before and one half hour after the road closure times. This will ensure that there is no traffic on the street when school children are present. A discussion followed, and it was decided to use Councilwoman Walsh’s suggestion to allow parking from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. only, with appropriate signage.

Councilwoman Walsh suggested allowing parking on only one side of the street. A discussion followed, including input from Ridgewood Police Sergeant John Chuck, and it was decided that parking will be allowed only on the east side of Clinton Avenue.

This amended ordinance will be introduced at the July 12, 2017 Village Council meeting.

1. Budget
2. Declare Fire Department Equipment Surplus

Ms. Mailander explained that two pieces of property can be declared surplus. One is a 1999 GMC Yukon SUV, that has multiple mechanical problems and is no longer used to respond to emergencies. The other is firefighting hose, which is 20 years or older and is damaged, so it is not suitable for firefighting.

2. Award Contract Under State Contract - Tires

Ms. Mailander explained that there is a need to purchase tires through the State of New Jersey Cooperative Purchasing Program, for a cost not to exceed $55,000. Since the purchase exceeds the statutory limit of $40,000 under the State’s Cooperative Purchasing Program, it must be authorized by Village Council resolution. The vendor is Kirk’s Tire and Auto, located in Bergenfield, NJ.

3. Award Contract Under State Contract - Police Handguns, Holsters,                                          and Magazine Pouches

Ms. Mailander explained that this resolution will authorize the purchase of new, Glock 9mm handguns for the Police Department, as well as holsters, magazine pouches, and associated ammunition. The handgun contract is proposed to be awarded to the lowest bidder, Witmer Public Safety Group. The holsters and magazine pouches will be purchased from Atlantic Tactical under State Contract. The ammunition will be purchased from Eagle Point, also under State Contract.

4. Award Contract Under State Contract - Two Police Patrol SUVs

Ms. Mailander explained that this resolution will authorize the purchase of two, Chevy Tahoe Police Pursuit Vehicles, and associated emergency equipment. The purchase will be made out of 2017 Capital, and will not exceed $132,000 in total.        These vehicles will be assigned to patrol, and will replace two, 2012 Chevy Tahoe’s, which are in good working order, but are at the end of the life cycle of a police car. One vehicle will be given to the Office of Emergency Management and the other vehicle will be given to the Building Department. Some of the equipment in these cars, including camera systems, radios, and radar systems, will be reused in the new vehicles. The new vehicles will be purchased through State Contract. The radar systems will be purchased through a sole source provider, and the striping will be purchased through a local vendor.

5.          Award Contract Under State Contract - Lifts and Support Stands -                                         Fleet Services

Ms. Mailander explained that this resolution will authorize the acquisition of lifts and support stands for the Central Garage. The purchase will be made under State Contract, with a total expenditure of $83,397. The State Contract Vendor is Hoffman Services, located in Newark, NJ.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Richard Calbi, Director of Operations, explained that this purchase will replace some antiquated equipment and add some additional equipment. The lifts will be portable.

6. Award Contract Under National Joint Powers Alliance - Front End                                         Loaders with Snowplows

Ms. Mailander explained that this resolution will authorize the purchase of two, front end loaders, with snow plows and attachments, at a cost not to exceed $467,582. The vendor is Groff Tractor, located in Totowa, NJ.

7. Award Contract Under National Joint Powers Alliance - Two                                                    Sanitation Trucks with Snowplows

Ms. Mailander pointed out that none of the current sanitation trucks have snowplows, so this will be a new practice. The resolution will authorize the purchase of two chassis and cabs; two rear load packers; and two plows, at a cost not to exceed $428,604.16, from three different vendors.

Under questioning by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Calbi explained that the cost to operate a garbage truck as a snowplow is the same as operating other snowplows. The new trucks will be more versatile and will be used primarily on straight, level roadways (main thoroughfares).

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Calbi explained that a plow cannot be added to existing trucks, as these trucks are not made for that type of equipment. He pointed out that the new trucks will have bases that are the same as the trucks used by the Streets Division, so this will make maintenance universal throughout the Recycling Division, the Sanitation Division, and the Streets Division, as well as increasing snow plowing capabilities.

1. Policy
2. Options for Glenwood Road Railroad Crossing

Police Sergeant John Chuck and Village Engineer Christopher Rutishauser were present.

Ms. Mailander stated that, even though the decision to change the traffic pattern of Glenwood Avenue is made by NJ DOT, not the Village Council, NJDOT is looking for input from the Village Council.

Mr. Rutishauser referred to a memorandum he wrote, dated June 23, 2017, detailing a discussion he had with a representative of NJDOT. The representative explained that one of the issues that would be reviewed, when considering rescinding their plans for Glenwood Road, would be if the road were reconfigured to have a better flow of movement and traffic. Currently, some of the problems involve westbound traffic getting stuck on the tracks when larger vehicles have difficulty navigating the s -shaped turn.

Mr. Rutishauser reviewed the following potential options that may address NJDOT’s safety concerns, while still maintaining two-direction traffic on Glenwood Road:

1. Widen Glenwood Road - Widen the existing road to better support two-way traffic and eliminate the present bottleneck condition of traffic backing up onto the railroad tracks due to eastbound vehicles waiting for westbound vehicles to travel through the s - shaped turn. The work would be extensive due to the need for considerable rock excavation. Mr. Rutishauser estimated the cost to be in the $1 million to $2 million range. Negotiations with property owners may be necessary to allow work in an existing rock bluff, and there are potential conflicts with several Village sanitary sewer lines.

Mr. Rutishauser pointed out that the railroad track bed, running from the toe of the slope eastward, belongs to the Borough of Ho-Ho-Kus, so any changes would require their approval/agreement. Mr. Rutishauser stated that he would like to have the Village Councilmembers’ opinions of these preliminary options before approaching the Borough of Ho-Ho-Kus for assistance with the cost. He did note that the Village Engineer from Ho-Ho-Kus was present at some of the meetings with NJDOT. NJDOT will also have to approve any changes.

2. Construct a Bridge over the Railroad Tracks - NJ Transit requires a minimum of 23 feet of vertical clearance under a bridge to their track bed. Considering the vertical thickness of a bridge deck to be in the 4-foot to 6-foot range, and the approximate 20-foot grade on the Ho-Ho-Kus side, preliminary calculations indicate that the slope will be significant and may exceed standard design recommendations.   A bridge will be expensive (in the multi-million-dollar range). The bulk of the bridge will be located in Ho-Ho-Kus. Maintenance of the bridge will be an ongoing issue, and it may be difficult to plow and to control ice and snow.
3. Enhance Signalization at Road Approaches - This option will provide a signalized control of the road. The traffic signals would need to be installed near the triangle of Glenwood Road near Upper Boulevard in Ridgewood, and at the base of Warren Avenue in Ho-Ho-Kus. The signals would have to be integrated with the railroad crossing barriers. The cycle would permit alternating, one-way traffic flow. The cost of this option is estimated to be in the range of $400,000 to $600,000. Mr. Rutishauser noted that during busy traffic periods, there will likely be a queue on either approach, which may create problems in the surrounding neighborhoods. Mr. Rutishauser estimated that this queue may involve at least 8-10 vehicles at a time, particularly during morning drop-off time at the train station. He also pointed out that the traffic signals will probably be at the eye level of anyone sitting on the front porch of their Upper Boulevard house. Ms. Mailander also noted that these traffic signals will be large and bright, and will operate 24 hours a day/7 days a week, shining into the windows of surrounding homes.
4. One-Way Eastbound Traffic Only on Glenwood Road - Ms. Mailander described a fourth option as follows: One-way traffic coming from Glenwood Road down, with a small walkway against the triangle area for drop-off, and the installation of crosswalks across to the stairs. The traffic would then flow one-way back up the triangle, with both a left hand turn and a right hand turn. Two bike racks would also be installed along the walkway and in the vicinity of the triangle area. Mr. Rutishauser noted that this may address one of the NJDOT’s safety concerns involving vehicles dropping off commuters and then making U-turns or K-turns on the railroad track bed. Councilman Voigt suggested prohibiting drop-offs on the tracks and keeping the two-way traffic flow. Mr. Rutishauser felt that this effort would have to be coordinated with Ho-Ho-Kus, as the Ho-Ho-Kus Police Department would be the enforcing authority, and it would be against mostly Ridgewood residents.

Sergeant Chuck explained that there is a timing issue associated with the option of the two-way traffic flow and the traffic light. There is a 90 second wait after a vehicle triggers a photo sensor, and this wait will increase significantly if the train barrier signal is activated.

Councilman Voigt suggested camera-enforcement of the no-drop-off law. Mr. Rutishauser believed this type of enforcement had been eliminated in the State of New Jersey. He also noted that the cameras would be located in Ho-Ho-Kus.

Under questioning by Councilwoman Walsh, Mr. Rutishauser explained that when NJDOT first contacted the Village, they expressed major safety concerns with the at-grade crossing, based on observations, reports from train engineers, and field observations. The NJDOT initially suggested the possibility of closing Glenwood Road. Councilwoman Walsh suggested prohibiting large vehicles on this road. Mr. Rutishauser stated that the road has been posted as prohibiting vehicles weighing over 4 tons. Another problem involves GPS mapping systems directing vehicles, including large trucks, to this location.

Mayor Knudsen suggested constructing physical barriers indicating the height limit of vehicles. She described these structures as containing two pillars and a header. One would be placed close to the top of the hill at the drop-off area, and the other would be placed close to the bottom of the hill, well before the tracks.

Mayor Knudsen pointed out that closing Glenwood Road would require vehicles traveling this very busy roadway to find another route. Students traveling to Willard School will also need to be rerouted, which will add approximately 1½ miles to their trip. The NJDOT will need to be made aware of this.

In response to the suggestion of a physical barrier, Mr. Rutishauser noted that the Federal Highway Administration requires a 14-foot clearance for local roads. Mr. Rutishauser noted that there may be problem with vehicles with items on their roofs, such as bicycles, hitting the barrier. Mayor Knudsen felt that this would not be a common occurrence, and she suggested getting special permission to allow the physical barriers.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Sergeant Chuck stated that the majority of people who use the train station are familiar with it; it is the people who are not familiar with it that run into problems. Barriers have been posted in the past to discourage turning around on the tracks; however, people move these barriers. Sergeant Chuck stated that if the Village Council wants to keep two-way traffic on Glenwood Road, the roadway must be improved. He felt the one-way traffic option would be a strong compromise with NJDOT, Ho-Ho-Kus, and Ridgewood.

At the request of Councilman Voigt, Mr. Rutishauser stated that he will ask Ridgewood IT Director, Dylan Hansen, to see if he knows a way to restrict trucks from being directed through this route by GPS mapping programs.

Councilman Voigt felt that keeping the road two-way and making the drop-off area more inviting may encourage people to use it rather than dropping commuters off on the tracks. Sergeant Chuck felt that it was human nature for someone to want to be dropped off as close as possible to the train.  He also noted that improvements would still need to be made to the route. Ms. Mailander noted that the two-way traffic creates the potential for a conflict with vehicles coming up the hill and vehicles stopped at the drop-off.

At the request of Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Rutishauser stated that he will request the NJ Transit reports regarding the train engineers’ observations of vehicles turning around on the tracks. Councilman Voigt stated that he spoke to a NJ Transit representative, who explained to him that within a two-hour period, there were 40 incidences where cars actually followed the tracks. Mayor Knudsen reiterated the importance of receiving these reports before any decisions are made.

Councilman Voigt noted that some businesses located in Ho-Ho-Kus are concerned about the effect of making Glenwood Road a one-way street. Ms. Mailander pointed out that Ho-Ho-Kus businesses should not be adversely affected since the one-way direction leads into Ho-Ho-Kus. Mayor Knudsen stated that she was contacted by the Mayor of Ho-Ho-Kus, who questioned whether any Ridgewood residents had expressed concerns. The Mayor of Ho-Ho-Kus told Mayor Knudsen that there were business owners in Ho-Ho-Kus that expressed concerns. Ms. Mailander stated that she will contact the Ho-Ho-Kus Business Administrator on this issue.

Mayor Knudsen presented a photograph of the existing truck weight limit sign, which she described as small and unnoticeable. She asked if Ridgewood could work with Ho-Ho-Kus to post bigger signage. Councilman Voigt agreed, adding that an existing sign indicating, “no fouling on the tracks” should be made larger, and the word “fouling” should be replaced with the word “stopping”.

2. Garber Square Bike Lane

Patrolman Raymond Tarino, the conductor of the Garber Square Traffic Study, and Sergeant John Chuck were present.

Patrolman Tarino stated that over a two-week period, he observed traffic and conducted traffic counts in the area of Garber Square. Patrolman Tarino broke the site down into the following four areas: the intersection of West Ridgewood Avenue and Wilsey Square; Garber Square Eastbound; Garber Square Westbound; and the intersection of Franklin Avenue and North Broad Street.

Regarding the peak traffic volumes going westbound, Patrolman Tarino observed that there was an average peak volume of 615 vehicles from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.; an average peak volume of 750 vehicles from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.; an average peak volume of 850 vehicles from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.; an average peak volume of 815 vehicles from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.; and an average peak volume of 850 vehicles from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

At 3:45 p.m., the furthest backup for traffic westbound reached the driveway of Stop Shop. Shadowing the furthest vehicle, Patrolman Tarino observed that it took two traffic light cycles to get through Franklin Avenue and Oak Street; two traffic light cycles to get through Franklin Avenue and North Broad Street; and one traffic light cycle to get across West Ridgewood Avenue. The trip took a total of 5.5 minutes. By 4:00 p.m., the traffic had eased and it took only one traffic light cycle for a vehicle to get through each intersection.

At 5:15 p.m., the furthest backup for traffic westbound reached Cottage Place. Shadowing the furthest vehicle, Patrolman Tarino observed that it took six minutes to complete the trip from Cottage Place to West Ridgewood Avenue (two traffic light cycles for each intersection). By 5:30 p.m., traffic had eased and it took only one traffic light cycle for a vehicle to get through each intersection.

Between 3:05 p.m. and 3:25 p.m., North Broad Street, which has a very short traffic light cycle, backs up to East Ridgewood Avenue, allowing only an average of 10 vehicles to make the left turn toward westbound Garber Square at the green light.

Regarding the peak traffic volumes going eastbound, Patrolman Tarino observed that there was an average peak volume of 716 vehicles from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m.; an average peak volume of 785 vehicles from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.; an average peak volume of 731 vehicles from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.; an average peak volume of 714 vehicles from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.; and an average peak volume of 686 vehicles from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Patrolman Tarino stated that, on average, 18,000 vehicles traverse Garber Square on a daily basis. Patrolman Tarino compared this number to a traffic study conducted on West Glen Avenue in 2015, which found that an average of 11,000 to 12,000 vehicles traversed West Glen Avenue on a daily basis.

Garber Square Eastbound traffic averaged two traffic light cycles during peak volume hours. Congestion was not observed on Wilsey Square. From 7:25 a.m. to 8:00 a.m., West Ridgewood Avenue was observed backing up approximately 550 feet or just before Heights Road. It took a vehicle, on average, three to four traffic light cycles to complete their movement through the intersection of West Ridgewood Avenue and Garber Square going eastbound.

There are two, heavily occupied NJ Transit trains present during the 7:25 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. time frame. Pedestrian traffic is very heavy (middle schoolers and commuters), and some of this pedestrian traffic is in the tunnel. There is very heavy vehicular traffic going in and out of Station Plaza. Patrolman Tarino observed a large number of vehicles exiting Washington Place onto West Ridgewood Avenue. None of these delays were caused by a backup on Garber Square eastbound. Most vehicles on West Ridgewood Avenue during this time were attempting to turn left onto Garber Square eastbound. Due to heavy pedestrian traffic over Garber Square from West Ridgewood Avenue, as well as a heavy presence of vehicles exiting Station Plaza from commuter drop-off, much of the green traffic light cycle for left turning vehicles was spent yielding to the right-of-way of vehicles and stopping for pedestrians.

Patrolman Tarino stated that his observations of the traffic light cycles at all four intersections in the area were good and did not need much improvement.

Patrolman Tarino stated that he compiled crash reports from January, 2012 to October, 2014, prior to the bike lanes being installed. There was a total of 30 accidents during this period. The statistics were broken down into the following categories: Reportable Motor Vehicle Accidents ($500 in damage or more or an injury); and Slight Motor Vehicle Accidents (less than $500 in damage and no injuries).  

Patrolman Tarino stated that a significant finding from January, 2012 to October, 2014, was the occurrence of seven reported crashes involving vehicles turning left from West Ridgewood Avenue onto Garber Square eastbound and not yielding to the right-of-way of vehicles exiting Station Plaza. Two of these accidents were same direction sideswipes in marked travel lanes of Garber Square, and there was one reported injury, with no transportation to the hospital. All rear end crashes reported were caused by inattentive driving.

Patrolman Tarino stated that a crash analysis conducted from November, 2014 to May, 2017 found that there were 32 accidents during this period. Two of these reported crashes involved vehicles turning left from West Ridgewood Avenue onto Garber Square eastbound. These vehicles did not yield to the right-of-way of vehicles exiting Station Plaza. Three of the four same-direction sideswipes were reportedly caused by vehicles improperly using bike lanes to pass. All rear end crashes reported were caused by inattentive driving. One pedestrian was struck on Broad Street and Franklin Avenue; however, this person left the scene prior to the arrival of emergency personnel. There were seven reported injuries; however, no one was transported to the hospital.

Patrolman Tarino compared the total number of motor vehicle accidents that occurred during the period of January, 2012 and October, 2014, prior to the installation of the bike lane, with those that occurred during the period of November, 2014 to May, 2017, after the installation of the bike lane, as follows:

                        Streets                                     1/2012 to 10/2014       11/2014 to 5/2017

• West Ridgewood/Wilsey Square                    14                                11
• North Broad Street/Franklin Avenue             6                                  6
• Garber Square Westbound                              2                                  9
• Garber Square Eastbound                                       8                                              6

Patrolman Tarino made the following recommendations:

For Garber Square Westbound:

• Extend the combined, right-turn-only/bike lane from 180 feet to 360 feet (in front of Pease Library, after the left curve), which will allow a queuing of a total of 18 cars (currently 9)

For Garber Square Eastbound:

• Extend the combined, right-turn-only/bike lane from 148 feet to 205 feet, which will allow an additional 3 cars to queue. More vehicles in the right lanes, turning right on red, will allow more traffic to flow, easing delays.

For West Ridgewood Avenue:

• Install a lead green arrow on the West Ridgewood side of the traffic light, combined with a pedestrian countdown, which would give vehicles turning left the ability to make the turn unobstructed by pedestrians crossing Garber Square or vehicles exiting Station Plaza
• Remove the first two, of the 15-minute parking spaces along the south curb of West Ridgewood Avenue, to extend the right-turn-lane by 40 feet, allowing more cars to queue that are attempting to turn right onto Wilsey Square, and giving vehicles going straight into Station Plaza the ability to go around stopped vehicles waiting to turn left onto Garber Square from West Ridgewood Avenue.

Patrolman Tarino stated that he would not change the traffic light cycles at any locations, as they appear to be maximizing their efficiency for the traffic volume.

Patrolman Tarino stated that a representative from NJ Transit told him that there is a total of 210 bus movements through Garber Square on a daily basis.

Ms. Mailander thanked Patrolman Tarino, Sergeant Chuck, and Mr. Rutishauser for all the time and effort that went into the preparation of this traffic report. Ms. Mailander stated that she was very pleased with the recommendations, as they may allow the bike lanes to remain while improving the flow of traffic.

Councilwoman Walsh pointed out that the traffic flow will be significantly impacted when the KS Broad multi-unit development is built.

Councilman Voigt described the traffic study as great and the recommendations as helpful. He also expressed concern with the increase of traffic from the KS Broad, Dayton and Enclave multi-unit developments. Councilman Voigt noted that discussions at the Planning Board level suggested changing five traffic lights to actuated lights on Franklin Avenue, along the corridor from Garber Square all the way down to East Ridgewood Avenue/Maple Avenue, to help with the queue. Sergeant Chuck stated that actuated lights would reduce wait time by only seconds during the peak times; however, actuated lights would make a tremendous improvement during off-peak times.

Mayor Knudsen thanked Patrolman Tarino for “the best report ever”, filled with a wealth of information. Mayor Knudsen stated that she was surprised at the amount of traffic traveling through the area. Mayor Knudsen suggested taking away the bike lane, create two lanes and painting share-the-road-arrows (sharrows). Patrolman Tarino felt westbound traffic was properly utilizing the roadway without the two lanes. Patrolman Tarino had a significant concern with creating two lanes going eastbound, because larger vehicles, such as busses or trucks with trailers, may cross over to the right lane when making a left turn. Patrolman Tarino suggested keeping the existing configuration of the roadway and considering it as a one-lane roadway, with a bike lane.

It was the consensus of the Village Council members to implement the recommendations of Patrolman Tarino. At Mayor Knudsen’s request, Patrolman Tarino will e-mail a drawing detailing the proposed extensions of the right-turn-only/bike lanes.

3. Boards and Committees - Fields Committee

Timothy Cronin, Director of Parks and Recreation, was present.

Ms. Mailander pointed out that the composition and responsibilities of the Fields Committee are part of the overall Athletic Fields and Recreational Facilities Use Policy dated January 1, 2007 and approved under Resolution #07-12.

Councilman Hache questioned why the Fields Committee did not have by-laws. Referring to the composition and responsibilities of the Fields Committee, as stated in Resolution #07-12, Councilman Hache questioned why members of this committee are not appointed by the Village Council, since the Fields Committee advises the Village Council.

Councilman Hache pointed out that Resolution #07-12 states that a key purpose of the Fields Committee is to respond to public inquiries and complaints. Resolution #07-12 also authorizes the Fields Committee to institute disciplinary action, including restricting access to groups who abuse the Field/Facility Use privileges. Resolution #07-12 also identifies the primary responsibility of the Fields Committee as the allocation of fields and facilities. Councilman Hache suggested that the allocation of fields and facilities may be handled more efficiently through the Village and the Board of Education, using software that would not only manage scheduling of fields, but it could provide activity registrations, facilities reservations, league scheduling, custom reporting and dashboards, past memberships, and point-of-sale inventory control for an overall picture of facility usage.

Councilman Hache recalled that, previously, there was a Sports Council that handled grievances and complaints. Mr. Cronin explained that there currently is a grievance process. A group or individual with a grievance first goes before the board of the particular sport in which they are involved. If satisfaction is not received, the group or individual would then go before the Fields Committee. If the group or individual wishes to appeal the decision further, they could then go before the Parks, Recreation and Conservation Board (PRC) Board for a final determination.

Mayor Knudsen expressed a concern that, under the current process, there was no higher authority than the PRC Board.

Councilman Hache spoke of the importance of impartiality when handling grievance appeals. Mr. Cronin noted that there are no members affiliated with sports on the PRC Board. Councilman Hache suggested eliminating the Fields Committee in the grievance appeal process.

Village Attorney Matthew Rogers agreed that removing the Fields Committee from this process made sense. He pointed out that neither members of the Village Council or members of the Board of Education should get involved in the grievance appeal process. If sports groups cannot handle and resolve grievances on their own, Mr. Rogers suggested having someone who oversees the sports groups make a decision or determination.

Mayor Knudsen suggested having a Parks and Recreation Sub-Committee for the handling of grievances.

Councilwoman Walsh stated that she was on the Fields Committee for two years. Grievances usually came first to the Fields Committee and then to the specific sport associations such as Ridgewood Baseball and Softball Association (RBSA) or Ridgewood Lacrosse Association. Councilwoman Walsh cited two instances involving neighbor complaints, and these issue were addressed by the sport associations themselves. Other grievances included field monopolizing or field lighting. Mr. Rogers noted that these types of grievances are easily handled. In instances when a participant in the sports organization is aggrieved by something that happened within the sports organization, another level of unaffiliated, independent, objective review is needed.

Under questioning by Councilman Hache, Mr. Cronin explained that the volunteer who schedules the fields does it for all the groups. He receives approximately 10,000 e-mails each season. Mr. Cronin did not feel the Village had enough staff to offer the individual attention that scheduling requires. There is a calendar, indicating the blocks of time allocated to each sports group, posted on the Recreation Division website. Outside of the sports groups, residents e-mail Mr. Cronin for a request to use a field. Mr. Cronin then contacts the volunteer scheduler to see if an accommodation can be made.

Mayor Knudsen recalled receiving approximately 100 e-mails from parents concerned that soccer camp would not take place the Monday after school dismissed for the summer. A software scheduling system connecting the Village and the Board of Education could have resolved this issue long before it became a matter of urgency.

Ms. Mailander stated that she will look into the scheduling software; but she noted that the Village does not have the staff to devote the amount of time needed to schedule field usage.

Mr. Rogers suggested that the Board of Education may already be using scheduling software for their indoor facilities. Ms. Mailander stated that this will be investigated.

4. Endorse Bergen County Open Space Trust Fund Program - The                                               James Rose Center

Ms. Mailander explained that the James Rose Center is applying to the Bergen County Open Space Trust for a grant to repair and improve the Zendo Pavilion, located on the property known as the James Rose Center. Ms. Mailander explained that this is similar to the Community Development Block Grant, where the Village Council acknowledges the non-profit organization, and feels their cause is worthy. No funds from the Village are obligated. The requirement for endorsing resolutions from a municipality’s governing body for open space is a new procedure.

5. Title 59 Approval - Painting Curbs Yellow

Councilwoman Walsh explained that the yellow lines indicating “no parking” at the end of roads need to be repainted if they have faded. Vehicles are currently parking right up to the stop signs. Vehicles parked at the end of roads obstruct site vision at intersections. Both Councilwoman Walsh and Mayor Knudsen are observing this dangerous situation on the streets where they live.

It was the consensus of the Village Councilmembers to approve the painting of curbs yellow to indicate, “no parking”.

6. Amend Chapter 145 - Fees - Tree Protection

Ms. Mailander explained that when this ordinance was adopted, a fee ordinance was not introduced. The ordinance amending Chapter 145 will require a Tree Removal and Protection Permit, however, the fee will be $0.00. If a tree is taken down and the owner does not wish to replace it with another tree on his/her own property, the owner will be required to pay a Replacement Tree Value Fee of $225.00 per tree.   These funds will be put into a pool to purchase trees in areas throughout the Village. Ms. Mailander noted that a property owner may remove invasive species of trees located on their property without replacing them.

1. Operations
2. Appoint Clean Communities Coordinator and Recycling Program                                            Coordinator

Ms. Mailander explained that John Spano, a long-time employee of the Village, is retiring shortly. Richard Calbi, Director of Operations, is recommending the appointment of Daniel Kiely, Superintendent of Public Works, as the Clean Communities Coordinator and Recycling Coordinator effective July 1, 2017. Mr. Kiely is a Certified Public Works Manager and has completed the necessary course work and training for his Clean Communities Coordinator Certification. He is in the process of attending Rutgers University for his Recycling Coordinator Certification. These positions are required by statute.

It was the consensus of the Village Council to prepare a resolution appoint Mr. Kiely to these two positions.

2. Purchase of Property

Mayor Knudsen explained the proposal to purchase the Elks Club building to house all of the Water Department Operations under one roof, making it a more effective operation. This is an opportunity to expand the Village’s municipal campus. Negotiations have taken place.

Ms. Mailander explained that, at the Village Council Public Meeting on July 12, 2017, a Capital Improvement Fund Ordinance will be introduced to fund this purchase. The ordinance will then be considered for adoption in August. This purchase will bring all the employees, controls, administration, and lab from the current building located in Midland Park, NJ, to one building at the Village Hall Municipal Complex. The Glen Avenue Water Facility will remain.

Mayor Knudsen noted that this purchase will bring the Water Department to the municipal complex at a much lower cost and at a more efficient operating capacity than what was indicated in a footprint study conducted in 2016.

Councilman Walsh stated that she was opposed to purchasing the Elks Club building. Councilwoman Walsh stated her reasons for opposing this purchase as follows: only 20 employees will be using the building; the building is in need of repair, bringing the total cost to approximately $3 million; there is available space throughout Bergen County to house the facility, particularly since Ridgewood Water services other towns; this purchase has not been discussed with the other towns serviced by Ridgewood Water; and the money could be used for other purposes.

Councilman Voigt also stated that he was opposed to purchasing the Elks Club building. Councilman Voigt expressed a concern with the potential cost to the Village from a pending lawsuit with the other municipalities serviced by Ridgewood Water, asserting that Ridgewood taxpayers benefited by the increase rate by offset of taxes.

Mayor Knudsen noted that regardless of the lawsuit, the operations of Ridgewood Water need to be improved and need to continue servicing customers in all the municipalities. Mayor Knudsen pointed out that the building in Midland Park is prone to flooding. She also noted that the movement of the building to the municipal complex will make it easier for residents to pay their water bills.

Mr. Rogers explained that the complainant in the pending lawsuit is asserting that the Village of Ridgewood allocated expenses that should have been adjusted through the Water Utility Budget. The litigation called for the Village to pay for damages that occurred as a result of the improper allocation. Mayor Knudsen pointed out that this is not money that comes from the Water Department.

Councilman Hache stated that he was initially concerned with the purchase of the Elks Building, particularly because it is in need of repair. He noted, however, that Village Hall has become very crowded. Councilman Hache felt this is an opportunity to consolidate the Water Department operations more efficiently and geographically in one place. It will probably be the last opportunity to expand the municipal complex.

7. MANAGER’S REPORT

Dog License Renewals - Ms. Mailander stated that the Health Department would like to remind everyone that the 2017 Dog License Renewals are due during the month of June. A $20 late fee will be charged for all renewals received after June 30, 2017.

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.

July 4^th Fireworks - Ms. Mailander stated that details are posted on the Village website, as well as the July 4^th Committee website, www.ridgewoodjuly4.com. Tickets can be purchased on-line. There will be a Super 50/50 Raffle Fundraiser to support this all-volunteer event. The tickets cost $100 and a total of 600 tickets will be sold. The grand prize is $25,000 and there are ten, $500 prizes. Prize money is subject to taxation.

Senior Tuesdays at Graydon Pool - Ms. Mailander reported that Senior Tuesdays began a few weeks ago. The first day, only one senior citizen attended, as the day was very hot. On the second day, June 27^th, it was a beautiful day and twenty-six senior citizens attended. Senior Tuesdays came about as a Bar Mitzvah Project by Siobhan Winograd, who visited with the senior citizens and cosponsored paying for their lunch. Each Friend of Ridgewood assisted with the initial funding and a good time was had by all. Transportation was offered; however, it was not utilized.

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 to the Kasschau Memorial Shell for Ridgecrest residents on July 18^th and July 25^th. Chairs will also be provided.  

Graydon Pool - Ms. Mailander reported that Graydon Pool has been very popular this summer. Graydon Pool Seasonal Membership Badges are available for purchase on-line by clicking on the photograph of Graydon Pool on the Village website, which will take you to Community Pass.

Ridgewood Guild - Ms. Mailander announced that the Ridgewood Guild has begun their “Music in the Night” and “Art in the Park” programs, which will be held every Friday night through September 1, 2017.   These programs provide various types of music throughout the Central Business District (CBD) and artwork for sale at Memorial Park at Van Neste Square, benefiting 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. There is a schedule posted in the lobby of Village Hall and on the Ridgewood Guild’s website.

July 4^th Closures - Ms. Mailander reported that Village Hall will be closed on July 4^th. There will be no recycling or garbage pick-up and the Recycling Center will be closed.

10. COUNCIL REPORTS

Councilman Voigt thanked Siobhan Winograd for putting together Senior Tuesdays at Graydon Pool. It was a very enjoyable event for everyone who attended.

Planning Board - Councilman Voigt reported that the Planning Board met in a special session on Monday, June 26, 2017. KS Broad, a multi-unit development located on the corner of Franklin Avenue and Broad Street, was approved, with a number of stipulations. Councilman Voigt spoke highly of the developer, who has been working to make sure the development is one that the Village will like.

Library Board - Councilman Voigt stated that the Library Board met on June 27, 2017. There will be a three-day fundraising event scheduled for October 18^th to October 21^st called, “Caddystacks”.

Ridgewood Arts Council (RAC) - Councilwoman Walsh reminded everyone that Ashley Zielinski will be holding a 3D Printing Workshop on July 29, 2017.

Central Business District Advisory Committee (CBDAC) - Councilman Hache stated that the website is almost complete. Each Ridgewood business will get a registration link and the owners will be responsible for the content and the appearance. The CBDAC is continuing to look at the process of beautifying the downtown area. CBDAC recommended that a portion of the tax revenue that commercial properties pay to the Village be invested back into the Central Business District (CBD). Councilman Hache thanked the volunteers that have been working on beautifying the downtown area. Cynthia Halaby and the Women Gardeners of Ridgewood have done a tremendous job at Van Neste Square. The Shade Tree Commission and CDBAC will combine their efforts and look at the existing inventory of tree and tree wells to see where improvements can be made. Decorations are being purchased, which include banners and lighting. Ridgewood is committed to supporting businesses as much as possible.

Councilman Hache spoke of his pride in all the work and effort that went into providing Senior Tuesdays at Graydon Pool.

July 4^th Committee - Mayor Knudsen invited everyone to visit the Ridgewood July 4^th website to check out the planned festivities. The Ridgewood July 4^th Celebration is an all-volunteer program. It is a community-funded event that receives no direct funding from the Village of Ridgewood. Mayor Knudsen encouraged everyone to visit the businesses that support this event.   Requests for information on how to purchase raffle tickets can be e-mailed to, info@ridgewoodjuly4.com, and this information can be found on the website. The theme for this year’s celebration is, “Honoring Those Who Serve”, recognizing and honoring the many men and women who dedicate their work and life to others through the military, police, fire, EMS, or Civil Service. Festivities will begin at 9:00 a.m. with the flag raising at Wilsey Square, with the parade following. Firework gates open at 6:00 p.m. Mayor Knudsen invited everyone to attend this outstanding event.

125^th Graduating Class of Ridgewood High School - Mayor Knudsen congratulated the Ridgewood High School Class of 2017 and wished them luck in their future endeavors. The graduation was beautiful and it was a treat for the Village Councilmembers to be up front and close to the new graduates.

Community Relations Advisory Board (CRAB) - Mayor Knudsen stated that CRAB met last week. There was a spirited discussion about how to move forward. Mayor Knudsen met with the Chairperson and one member this morning and shared a very productive and positive dialogue.

Planning Board - Mayor Knudsen explained that the Planning Board approves site plan applications. Site plan applications are compliant applications that are legally, permissible applications that comply with zoning laws. The Zoning Ordinances, for the multi-unit developments, were adopted by Village Council majority on March 23, 2016. The Planning Board opportunities exist only to create stipulations and protections for the Village, as best they can.

Mayor Knudsen asked Mr. Rogers to explain the reason that a public hearing, pertaining to the settlement with KS Broad and Enclave on a Declaratory Judgement Action, is scheduled for September 13, 2017.

Mr. Rogers explained that in 2015, the Village of Ridgewood filed a Declaratory Judgement Action to deal with the fair-share obligation, that every town in New Jersey has, to provide affordable housing within its boundaries. Part and parcel to that, was an aspect of the development plan for the Village that dealt with the Village’s own affordable housing needs, which has been ongoing since the obligation was first established by the initial Mount Laurel Decision. The Superior Court Law Division is now in charge of every town’s affordable housing obligation and must make sure that this obligation is adhered to and properly dispensed to provide a realistic opportunity for affordable housing to be built and constructed in each town. In the Declaratory Judgement Process, it is typical for a Judge to appoint a Court-Appointed Master to oversee each town’s progress with regard to coming up with its newest, fair-share obligation or affordable housing plan. An affordable housing plan details how a town will meet their obligation, including a determination of location and establishing the allocated need of units over the course of the next 15 to 20 years. Last year, ordinances were established for four particular sites in the CBD that allow for multi-unit developments, along with a component of affordable housing in each one of those projects. As directed by the Court, the Village has been meeting for over one year with the developers to discuss and establish parameters for reasonable development of these projects. These discussions included some deviations from what the applications were before the Planning Board. (Mr. Rogers noted that when an application is a conforming application, such as the application submitted by KS Broad, it means that what they proposed on the site in the development application conformed to the requirements and the criteria of the ordinances that were adopted last year. When an applicant does that, and has a site plan application that fully conforms to the ordinance, there is very little that a Planning Board can do to change the criteria of the development proposed.) Through some of the development discussions, the Village received some deviations that are believed to be beneficial to proper development. With the KS Broad and the Enclave projects, agreements and understandings were reached with the developers that will be brought before the public. The law requires the holding of a Public Meeting to settle any of these matters that deal with this particular litigation. In order to be as transparent as possible, the public hearing was scheduled for September 13, 2017, so that people are back from vacations and it can be fully discussed and explored by the public in front of the Village Council. The terms of whatever conceptual agreement the Village has will be discussed at that hearing. The Village Council will then make a determination whether or not there should be adjustments to those terms, how they feel about the terms, and possibly agree upon a settlement. This settlement can still be turned down by the Court; however, Mr. Rogers understood that the Court Appointed Master has given his support for the concepts that have been discussed.

Mayor Knudsen thanked everyone involved in Senior Tuesday. Mayor Knudsen said that talks have begun on expanding a few extra days for Ridgecrest Seniors.

Mayor Knudsen thanked the Women Gardeners, Cynthia Halaby, and Barbara Ferrante for the beautiful work they did at Van Neste Square.

9. PUBLIC COMMENTS

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 members to visit Ridgecrest.

Bradford Matthews, 366 Glenwood Road, supported the need for larger signs and larger fines for violations at the Glenwood Road Railroad Crossing. He like 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 ago. 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.

Mary Meakem, 630 Morningside Road, stated that as she was gathering signatures for the petition against the closing of Glenwood Road, neighbors passionately expressed how this would negatively impact them. Ms. Meakem thanked the Village Council for considering other options.

Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, referred to photographs posted on social media depicting accidents on Glenwood Road. Mr. Loving observed that larger signage was needed. Mr. Loving noted that, if Glenwood Road is made one-way, larger signage and/or barriers would still be needed. Mr. Loving asked for statistics on whether or not NJ Transit ever posted one of their own Police Officers at this location to enforce the law that vehicles are prohibited from turning around on the tracks. Mr. Loving also expressed a concern with problems that will be created resulting from GPS mapping systems directing vehicles to Glenwood Road without drivers knowing that it is a one-way roadway.

Mr. Loving expressed concern with spending $3 million dollars on moving the Ridgewood Water Operations to the municipal campus. He noted that technology equipment by today’s standards is getting smaller and the number of employees needed to operate it is reduced. Mr. Loving asked if the facility in Midland Park, NJ would be sold to help offset the relocation costs.

Joseph Ferrante, 610 Hillcrest Road, thanked the Village Council for the thoughtful debate concerning solutions to the State’s safety concerns on Glenwood Road. Mr. Ferrante felt that the Village’s representatives in the State Legislator, namely Senator Kevin O’Toole, Assemblyman Kevin Rooney, and Assemblyman David Russo, should be contacted. Mr. Ferrante noted that since these legislators are not on the Senate Transportation Committee, Senator Robert Gordon, a representative of an adjacent jurisdiction, should be contacted. Mr. Ferrante suggested making smaller changes around the critical turn on Glenwood Road, such as the relocation of a telephone pole, the removal of a 10-foot asphalt embankment, and improving, moving, reducing, realigning or relocating the sidewalk. The traffic impact that would result in the closing of Glenwood Road is significant and cannot be minimized. Maple Avenue, in particular, will be greatly impacted. Mr. Ferrante expressed concern with a reduction in emergency response time. Mr. Ferrante felt it was important for the Village to show, through better signage and enforcement, that affirmative steps are being taken, which will allow additional time to make a good judgement on Glenwood Road. Mr. Ferrante also noted that if the efficiencies of the Ho-Ho-Kus Train Station are jeopardized, there will be more traffic at the Ridgewood Train Station. He urged the Village Council to consider the impact on the Ridgewood Train Station, as well.

10. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION

Deputy Village Clerk Donna Jackson read Resolution #17-196 to go into Closed Session as follows:

11. ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Hache, seconded by Councilwoman Walsh, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Work Session was adjourned at 11:56 p.m.

                                                                                                _____________________________

                                                                                                                     Susan Knudsen      

                                                                                                                           Mayor

_____________________________

            Donna M. Jackson

          Deputy Village Clerk