A REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY, ON NOVEMBER 9, 2022 AT 8:00 P.M.

 

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

 

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

 

Mayor Knudsen led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag and asked for a moment of silence in recognition of all men and women who are serving our nation and for all first responders. 

 

Mayor Knudsen stated that she wanted to acknowledge the passing of former Ridgewood Mayor Pat Mancuso.  She mentioned that she met Mr. Mancuso when he was first running for the Village Council.  She said that it was apparent after speaking with him how much he loved the Village.  Mr. Mancuso served Ridgewood for over 20 years, having first been sworn into office on July 1, 1990 and serving until July 1, 2010.  He served as Mayor for eight consecutive years from 1992 to 2000.  His accomplishments included the implementation of outdoor cafes and implementation of the first live televised Village Council meeting in 1993, which was unprecedented at that time. Mr. Mancuso was instrumental in establishing the Youth Community Center at Village Hall.  Without social media at that time, Mr. Mancuso became known as the “Walking Mayor,” since he often strolled in the downtown area and spoke to people about their concerns.  Former Mayor Mancuso was a man who loved his country, community and family.  He passed away on October 28, 2022, at the age of 84.  Mayor Knudsen said that everyone’s thoughts and prayers are with his family.

 

Mayor Knudsen also announced that at the General Election on November 8, 2022, there was a decisive victory by Siobhan Winograd and Evan Weitz as Village Councilmembers.  Both successful candidates have promised a “new direction” for the Village.  Mayor Knudsen congratulated Ms. Winograd and Mr. Weitz and wished them great success in the future.  She thanked Jim Van Goor for also running for election.

 

2.         ACCEPTANCE OF FINANCIAL REPORTS

 

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Bills, Claims, and Vouchers, and Statement of Funds on Hand as of October 31, 2022 be accepted as submitted.  Deputy Mayor Perron seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   Councilwoman Reynolds

 

3.         APPROVAL OF MINUTES

 

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Council minutes of October 3 and October 12, 2022, having been reviewed by the Village Council and now available in the Village Clerk’s Office, be approved as submitted.  Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   Councilwoman Reynolds

 

4.      COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

NONE

 

5.         VILLAGE MANAGER’S REPORT

 

Ms. Mailander stated that the annual leaf flyer, which is a bright yellow postcard, designates leaf placement dates for all areas.  Ms. Mailander asked all residents to abide by the leaf placement dates listed for their specific area. Crews will pick up leaves after the leaf placement dates.

 

Ms. Mailander announced a new service of the Recycling Center.  They will now accept used or expired cooking oil.  They will accept canola, corn, cottonseed, grapeseed, olive, palm, peanut, safflower, sesame, soybean, sunflower and vegetable oils. They will not accept avocado or coconut oil, shortening, lard or motor oil.  Residents should pour the used, cooled oil into a disposable, leakproof plastic container, preferably the original one and no larger than five gallons in size.  The container cap should be tightened.  Used vegetable and cooking oil should not be mixed with other liquids or products.  Residents should bring the full containers to the Recycling Center and hand it to an attendant.

 

On November 11, 2022 at 11:00 A.M., in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square, American Legion Post 53 will hold its annual Veteran’s Day ceremony.  All are invited to attend to honor those who served in the Armed Forces to protect our freedom.

 

On November 11, 2022, all Village departments and offices will be closed in observance of Veteran’s Day. There will be no recycling or garbage pickup on that day, and the Recycling Center will be closed.  She urged everyone to check the Village Calendar for garbage pickup and recycling schedule changes due to the holiday.

 

On November 14, 2022, from 3:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M., there will be a Covid booster clinic for ages 12 and older, and flu shots will be offered for ages 4 and older, at Village Hall on the first floor.  Those wishing to receive the Covid booster must register at www.ridgewoodnj.net/covid-registration by November 10, 2022 and must have had their last Covid booster shot before September 14, 2022.  Those wishing to receive the flu shot should call Valley Health at 201-291-6090.  Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.  All those attending the clinic must wear a mask, regardless of vaccination status.

 

On November 19, 2022, there will be a drive-through mobile shredding event held at the Graydon Pool parking lot from 9:00 A.M. to 12:30 P.M., or until the truck is full.  Ms. Mailander encouraged everyone to go earlier rather than later to this event, as the truck often fills up before 12:30 P.M.  Residents should remain in their vehicles, with documents placed in the trunk of their cars. Items should be placed in a paper bag or cardboard box only (no plastic bags are allowed).  There is a limit of four file-sized boxes per vehicle.  Staff will bring the documents to the truck for confidential shredding.  This event is free to all Ridgewood residents and businesses.

 

On November 24 and 25, 2022, all Village departments and offices will be closed in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday.  There will be no garbage or recycling pickup on November 24 and the Recycling Center will be closed.  On November 25, there will be garbage and recycling pickup, and the Recycling Center will be open.  Residents should check their Village calendar for garbage and recycling pickup dates, since they may change during the holiday.

 

On November 26, 2022, in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square, the Ridgewood Guild will hold its Winterfest from 12:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M.  There will be a tractor-pulled hay wagon ride, trackless train ride, story time, an ice sculptor, seasonal music, and a food truck with hot cocoa, cider and coffee, to allow everyone get into the holiday spirit.  November 26^th is also “Small Business Saturday” and Ms. Mailander encouraged everyone to visit the stores and eateries in the Central Business District (CBD) to support local businesses.

 

On December 2, 2022, from 6:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M., the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce will hold its annual “Downtown for the Holidays – Village Trucks on Holiday” in the Central Business District.  The pedestrian plaza will extend from East Ridgewood Avenue to Broad Street.  There will be music and S’mores in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square, as well as a snow globe for picture taking.  Ski movies will be shown on a big screen on Walnut Street, courtesy of Mount Everest.  “Village Trucks on Holiday” will take place all along East Ridgewood Avenue.  There will be a trackless train in front of Memorial Park at Van Neste Square.  On the west side of the CBD, next to the train station, there will be more “Village Trucks on Holiday,” as well as a band, kids’ corner with arts and crafts, sidewalk chalking, Elf on the Shelf, and Venture Studios taking pictures for free.  Dancers will appear in store windows, and there will be choral groups throughout the CBD.  The Ridgewood High School Band will roam throughout the CBD, and Santa will be seen in various locations on both the east and west sides of the CBD.

 

Upcoming Village Council meetings are broadcast live from the Village Hall Courtroom, on the Village website, on FIOS Channel 34 and YouTube.  The next Village Council Public Work Session will be held on December 7, 2022 at 7:30 P.M.  The next Public Meetings are scheduled for December 14, 2022 and January 11, 2023 at 8:00 P.M.  There will be a Reorganization Meeting on January 4, 2023, as well as a Village Council Public Work Session at 7:30 P.M.

 

6.         VILLAGE COUNCIL REPORTS

 

Councilman Vagianos met with the Community Center Advisory Board this week.  They are hosting an “Elder Dinner” at the Old Paramus Church on East Glen Avenue on November 12, 2022 at 3:00 P.M.  Stacey Antine of HealthBarn and volunteers will be preparing all of the food for this event.

 

At the Community Center Advisory Board meeting, they also discussed the Anchor Property Tax Relief Program.  This is a new State of New Jersey program which replaced the former Homestead Rebate program.  Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply.  The application will be mailed to homeowners, and renters must find the form online.  Homeowners earning $150,000.00 a year or less will get a rebate of $1,500.00.  Homeowners earning between $150,000.00 and $250,000.00 a year will get a rebate of $1,000.00.  Renters earning less than $150,000.00 a year will get a rebate of $450.00.  Further information may be found on the New Jersey Division of Taxation website.  The application must be made by December 31, 2022.

 

Councilman Vagianos stated that he also met with the Board of Education (BOE) this week.  They are still working on meshing their Master Schedule for field use with the Village’s field scheduling software.  The search process for a new Superintendent of Schools is ongoing.  The BOE is still researching the possibility of later start times for Ridgewood High School students and potentially for middle school students as well.  They expect to make a decision in this regard no later than February of 2023.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds reported that she did not have any committee meetings since last week. However, she mentioned that several members of the Project Pride Committee met in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square this weekend, joined by Deputy Mayor Perron, and they cleaned out all of the flower pots in the CBD.  Mulch was put on the top of each flower pot to deter people from using them as ashtrays or garbage cans during the winter.  Councilwoman Reynolds gave a special “shout out” to her husband, who lent his truck and strength to help in the cleanup.

 

Deputy Mayor Perron congratulated Erin Weitz and Siobhan Winograd for their election victory this week.  She said that she looks forward to working with them as Village Council colleagues.  She thanked Mayor Knudsen and former Fire Chief Jim Van Goor for their valiant efforts and outreach to voters, while running for the two vacant Village Council seats. She mentioned how critical it is to perform outreach to voters, which is important to good government.

 

Deputy Mayor Perron reported that the Chamber of Commerce met this morning.  The annual Chamber Guide is being mailed today to about 10,200 homes and businesses in the Village and neighboring areas.  She mentioned that the guide contains a wealth of information, not only regarding stores and businesses, but also regarding Village schools, houses of worship, hospital and transportation.  In the middle of the guide is a bonus card which residents can use at various shops and restaurants in the Village.  On the back of the guide, all of the participating businesses are listed.

 

The Chamber of Commerce is also running a “Coats Drive” and are seeking men’s coats, in large and extra-large sizes, which will be donated to the West Bergen Mental Health organization.  They are also seeking women’s coats, which will be donated to Never Alone Again in Teaneck, an organization devoted to women who have fled from an abusive situation.  Deliveries of the coats will be made on November 18, 2022.  She encouraged everyone to donate any of their unneeded coats, in good condition, to 27 Chestnut Street (Chamber of Commerce location).

 

Deputy Mayor Perron indicated that the Chamber of Commerce has several new members.  The Chamber of Commerce is working on a strategic planning guide to define roles within their organization and to provide for future succession.  The Executive Director of the YMCA in Ridgewood is leaving to take a job supervising several YMCAs in Rochester, New York.  Today, the Chamber of Commerce members met Chuck Benigno, the Interim Executive Director of the YMCA. 

 

By the end of this week, Feed the Frontlines will have delivered almost 56,000 meals to people with food insecurity.  Volunteer drivers are being sought through the end of the year.  Anyone interested in volunteering may sign up at Ridgewood Feed the Frontlines on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ridgewoodFtF/ or clicking on SignUpGenius on their website at https://www.healthbarnfoundation.org/donations/feed-the-frontlines.

 

The Shade Tree Commission met last night.  At 7:00 A.M., crews began to remove unhealthy and hazardous trees in the CBD, which will be replaced with more appropriate trees.  The Shade Tree Commission members also distributed door-to-door notices to businesses and offices in the Central Business District to let them know about the tree removals and replanting.

 

Deputy Mayor Perron stated that the current term for members serving on the Shade Tree Commission is five years.  She indicated that there was a “distinct consensus” that the term should be changed to three years. Everyone also felt that alternate members were not necessary.  She said that the Village Council needs to adopt a resolution to that effect, if all Councilmembers agree.

 

Deputy Mayor Perron announced that Stop & Shop is no longer accepting plastic bags for recycling, but Whole Foods is accepting them.  The Recycling Center is not in a position to accept plastic bags for recycling, since a baler would be required.  Deputy Mayor Perron spoke about the new cooking oil recycling service at the Recycling Center, but she cautioned everyone not to expect to get their containers back.

 

Mayor Knudsen thanked Deputy Mayor Perron for her opening remarks regarding the election, which she felt were thoughtful, kind and dignified.

 

7.         ORDINANCES – RIDGEWOOD WATER

 

Ms. Mailander stated that there are no introductions of, or public hearings on, ordinances for Ridgewood Water this evening.

 

8.         RESOLUTIONS – RIDGEWOOD WATER

 

Ms. Mailander stated that the following resolutions, numbered 22-360 through 22-362 were to be adopted by a consent agenda, and would be read by title only:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

9.         ORDINANCES

 

A.        INTRODUCTION #3928 – AMEND CHAPTER 190 – LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT – SIGNS IN HIGHWAY COMMERCIAL (HC) ZONE

 

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3928 by title on first reading.  Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3928 by title only:

 

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 190 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT, AT “SECTION 190-122, SIGNS”

 

Councilwoman Reynolds moved that Ordinance #3928 be adopted on first reading and that December 14, 2022 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon.  Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

B.        INTRODUCTION #3929 – AMEND PROVISIONS – ARTICLE XIII – AFFORDABLE HOUSING

 

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3929 by title on first reading.  Deputy Mayor Perron seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3929 by title only:

 

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING PROVISIONS ARTICLE XIII “AFFORDABLE HOUSING”

 

Councilwoman Reynolds moved that Ordinance #3929 be adopted on first reading and that December 14, 2022 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Deputy Mayor Perron seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

C.        INTRODUCTION #3930 – AMEND CHAPTER 265 – VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC – PERMIT PARKING – ALLOW NON-RESIDENTS TO PURCHASE RIDGEWOOD PARKING PERMITS

 

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3930 by title on first reading.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3930 by title only:

 

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-33, “PERMIT PARKING”

 

Deputy Mayor Perron moved that Ordinance #3930 be adopted on first reading and that December 14, 2022 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

 

 

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

D.        INTRODUCTION #3931 – AMEND CHAPTER 3 – ADMINISTRATION OF GOVERNMENT

 

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3931 by title on first reading.  Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3931 by title only:

 

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 3 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, ADMINISTRATION OF GOVERNMENT

 

Deputy Mayor Perron moved that Ordinance #3931 be adopted on first reading and that December 14, 2022 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

E.        PUBLIC HEARING - #3922 – 2022 MANAGEMENT SALARY ORDINANCE

 

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3922 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

 

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3922 by title only:

 

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND SALARY ORDINANCE 3882 FIXING THE SALARIES, WAGES AND OTHER COMPENSATION AND TO ESTABLISH THE “EMPLOYEE AGREEMENT” OF CERTAIN NON-UNION OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, COUNTY OF BERGEN AND STATE OF NEW JERSEY FOR THE YEAR 2022

 

Mayor Knudsen opened the Public Hearing on Ordinance #3922.  There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

Councilman Vagianos moved that Ordinance #3922 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

F.         PUBLIC HEARING - #3923 – 2022 NON-UNION SALARY ORDINANCE

 

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3923 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened.  Deputy Mayor Perron seconded the motion.

 

 

 

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3923 by title only:

 

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND SALARY ORDINANCE 3881 FIXING THE SALARIES, WAGES, AND OTHER COMPENSATION OF NON-UNION EMPLOYEES OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, COUNTY OF BERGEN AND STATE OF NEW JERSEY FOR THE YEAR 2022

 

Mayor Knudsen opened the Public Hearing on Ordinance #3923.  There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed.  Deputy Mayor Perron seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

Councilwoman Reynolds moved that Ordinance #3923 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law.  Deputy Mayor Perron seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

G.        PUBLIC HEARING - #3924 – 2023 MANAGEMENT SALARY ORDINANCE

 

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3924 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened.  Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.

 

 

 

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3924 by title only:

 

AN ORDINANCE TO FIX THE SALARIES, WAGES AND OTHER COMPENSATION AND TO ESTABLISH THE “EMPLOYEE AGREEMENT” OF CERTAIN NON-UNION OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, COUNTY OF BERGEN AND STATE OF NEW JERSEY FOR THE YEAR 2023

 

Mayor Knudsen opened the Public Hearing on Ordinance #3924.  There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed.  Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

Deputy Mayor Perron moved that Ordinance #3924 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law.  Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

H.        PUBLIC HEARING - #3925 – 2023 NON-UNION SALARY ORDINANCE

 

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3925 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

 

 

 

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3925 by title only:

 

AN ORDINANCE TO FIX SALARIES, WAGES, AND OTHER COMPENSATION OF NON-UNION EMPLOYEES OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, COUNTY OF BERGEN AND STATE OF NEW JERSEY FOR THE YEAR 2023

 

Mayor Knudsen opened the Public Hearing on Ordinance #3925.  There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

Councilman Vagianos moved that Ordinance #3925 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

I.          PUBLIC HEARING - #3926 – BOND ORDINANCE – REPAIRS TO WATER POLLUTION CONTROL FACILITY

 

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3926 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

 

 

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3926 by title only:

 

BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE ACQUISITION OF EQUIPMENT FOR THE WATER POLLUTION CONTROL FACILITY IN AND BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $1,390,000 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $1,177,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE PART OF THE COST THEREOF

 

Mayor Knudsen opened the Public Hearing on Ordinance #3926.  There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed.  Deputy Mayor Perron seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

Councilwoman Reynolds moved that Ordinance #3926 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law.  Deputy Mayor Perron seconded the motion.

 

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

J.         PUBLIC HEARING - #3927 – AMEND CHAPTER 145 – FEES – 2023 PARKING PERMIT FEES

 

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3927 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened.  Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3927 by title only:

 

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

 

Mayor Knudsen opened the Public Hearing on Ordinance #3927.  There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed.  Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

Deputy Mayor Perron moved that Ordinance #3927 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law.  Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.

 

Prior to the vote, Councilwoman Reynolds stated she is voting against this Ordinance, because she does not feel that the cost of parking permits should increase in 2023.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         Councilwoman Reynolds

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

10.       RESOLUTIONS

 

Ms. Mailander stated that the following resolutions, numbered 22-363 through 22-378 were to be adopted by a consent agenda and read by title only:

 

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that the following resolution, numbered 22-379, was to be considered separately and read in full:

 

Prior to the vote, Councilman Vagianos stated that he was voting no on this resolution, because he felt that initiating free parking in the Hudson Street Garage was counterproductive, since once employees find out about the free parking, they arrive early in the morning for work, park in the free spots, and leave their cars there all day, taking up spaces intended for shoppers and diners.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11.       COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

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

 

Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, thanked Mayor Knudsen for the beautiful statement she made this evening in recognition of former Mayor Pat Mancuso’s passing.  She also thanked Mayor Knudsen and Jim Van Goor for running for the two vacant Village Council seats.  She stated that Mayor Knudsen has done much for the Village, and that Mayor Knudsen will be missed by everyone.

 

Boyd A. Loving, 342 South Irving Street, spoke about the combination flu and Covid booster clinic on November 14, 2022.  He said that he was pleased that Ms. Mailander pointed out that there would be a mask mandate during the clinic.  Both he and his wife attended the flu clinic on October 6, 2022, and they were shocked to see that most people there were not wearing masks.  He is hopeful that all who attend the event on November 14^th will be wearing masks as mandated and that this is enforced.  He also hoped that there would be paper masks available for those who forget to wear masks when they attend the clinic.

 

There were no further public comments and Mayor Knudsen closed the public comments portion of the meeting. 

 

12.       CLOSED SESSION

 

Ms. Mailander read the following resolution #22-380, to go into Closed Session:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

13.       ADJOURNMENT

 

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Vagianos, seconded by Councilwoman Reynolds, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Regular Public Meeting was adjourned at 8:35 P.M.

 

 

 

 

 

                                                ____________________________________

                                                                                                Susan Knudsen

                                                                                                       Mayor

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

_________________________________________

                        Heather A. Mailander

                 Village Manager/Village Clerk

A REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY, ON DECEMBER 14, 2022 AT 8:00 P.M.

 

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

 

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

 

Mayor Knudsen led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag and asked for a moment of silence in recognition of all men and women serving our nation and for all first responders. 

 

2.         ACCEPTANCE OF FINANCIAL REPORTS

 

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Bills, Claims, and Vouchers, and Statement of Funds on Hand as of November 30, 2022 be accepted as submitted.  Deputy Mayor Perron seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

3.         APPROVAL OF MINUTES

 

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Council minutes of September 7, September 26, September 28, October 26, November 2, and November 9, 2022, having been reviewed by the Village Council and now available in the Village Clerk’s Office, be approved as submitted.  Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

4.      PROCLAMATIONS

 

1. PROCLAIM JANUARY RADON ACTION MONTH

 

Councilman Vagianos read the following proclamation:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2. HONOR NANCY GREENE ON HER RETIREMENT

 

Mayor Knudsen read the following proclamation:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

After reading the proclamation, all of the Councilmembers went down on the floor and asked Nancy Greene to come up to be honored for her 27 years of service to the Ridgewood Public Library.  Ms. Greene expressed how grateful she was and what a joy it has been to work with the Ridgewood Public Library, The Library Board of Trustees and The Library Foundation, as well as Ridgewood residents, donors and volunteers.  She thanked David Bolger for his innumerable contributions to the library over the years, as well as Ed Houlihan, for his many volunteer hours.

 

5.      COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that she was mortified during last week’s meeting, and at other meetings, to see how American Legion Post 53 was being harassed regarding their proposed gift to the Village of the Gold Star Monument.  She recalled that there was some “contentious sniping” by two Village Councilmembers.  The Village Manager had read the proposed agenda at the end of the December 7, 2022 meeting, and all four members of the Village Council agreed that it would be put to a vote this evening as to whether or not this gift would be accepted.  However, when she looked at the agenda for the meeting this evening, the matter of the Gold Star Monument had been removed from the agenda.  She was perplexed as to why it had been removed, and asked who decided to remove it.  Ms. Loving stated that such removal could represent an Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA) violation.

 

Laurie Weber, 235 South Irving Street, stated that at the December 7, 2022 Village Council meeting, American Legion Post 53 appeared to present a revised design for the Gold Star Monument, which she described as a beautiful and meaningful gift to the Village to honor Gold Star Families.  She said that the way the American Legion members were treated was “cringeworthy.”  She described the antics of the Village Council as “disgraceful.” Ms. Weber stated that the condescension, pettiness and incessant grandstanding, which was displayed, was embarrassing.  She stated that the Legionnaires were ignored and disrespected by everyone.  She stated that healthy, respectful and productive debate amongst the Councilmembers was unfortunately a thing of the past, and that actual issues have taken a backseat to local partisanship. 

 

Ms. Weber stated that this divisiveness will only get worse.  She said that residents in Ridgewood are being forced to choose between automatic nontransparent agreement or chaos in municipal government.  She concluded by saying that the Village Councilmembers owe the Legionnaires a profound apology for their actions, and that they need to graciously accept the beautiful gift offered to the Village by American Legion Post 53.

 

Ed Houlihan, 212 North Walnut Street, stated that he has been a resident of Ridgewood since 1976. He is a member of a Gold Star Family, which he stated is a membership that one does not seek.  His mother’s brother died in World War II, leaving a hole in the heart of Mr. Houlihan’s grandparents that never healed.  The commanding officer of a destroyer in the South China Sea during the Vietnam War and his brother, who was a pilot aboard the aircraft carrier Enterprise, joined Mr. Houlihan’s family for Christmas dinner one year.  It was a joyful reunion for the two brothers. Two weeks later, one of the brothers was shot down and killed in a bombing raid over North Vietnam.  When Mr. Houlihan offered his condolences to the commanding officer, he quietly said, “I am now the father of two more children.  Gold Star Families, the ultimate sacrifice.”

 

Richard Brooks, 777 East Ridgewood Avenue, stated that there seemed to be some confusion at the December 7, 2022 Village Council meeting as to whether or not the the Parks and Recreation Department and the Parks, Recreation and Conservation Board had ever reviewed proposed gifts to the Village.  Mr. Brooks stated that he has been a member of the Parks, Recreation and Conservation (PRC) Board for more than 15 years and currently serves as its Chair.  During the time that he has served on the board, he stated that they have reviewed “literally hundreds” of projects, which would benefit the Village.  He said that the board partners with other citizen groups or sports groups, and it is the board’s goal to make sure these groups are successful and that the project meets the needs of the entire community. 

 

Mr. Brooks cited some examples, including partnering with the Conservancy for Ridgewood Public Lands regarding the memorial benches installed throughout the Village.  Other examples include the park on North Broad Street, the restoration of the War Memorial in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square, musical instruments at the Children’s Garden at the Lester Stable, Ridgewood Baseball and Softball Association, the scoreboard and batting cages at Veterans Field, as well as dugouts at Veterans Field (which was turned down).  The annual donation of clay for all baseball fields in Ridgewood, the returfing of the artificial surface and lights in Maple Park, and subsequent maintenance budget were all negotiated through the PRC Board and the sports organizations.  The PRC Board has reviewed scores of Girl Scout, Boy Scout and Eagle Scout projects over the years, many times where review by the PRC Board is required before a project can commence.

 

Joseph Suplicki, 1 Fifteenth Avenue, Elmwood Park, stated that he was very concerned about the requirement by the Village Council for an architectural rendering of the monument, which the American Legion Post 53 is offering as a gift to the Village. He said the Gold Star Monument was basically a “tombstone,” larger than many headstones in Valleau Cemetery but a lot smaller than others.  He said that he is confident that no cemetery has ever required an architectural rendering of a tombstone.  Mr. Suplicki said that it was incredible that this requirement would be added to an ever-growing list of requirements, by the Village Council.  He said that the PRC Board does not mention anything in its mission statement regarding the approval of something like the Gold Star Monument.  They are only supposed to review recreational facilities, communicate community recreation programs, and develop updates for the Master Plan concerning recreation.

 

Chris Stout, 251 Burnside Place, Ridgewood, stated that he was appearing at the meeting this evening on behalf of the Gold Star Monument Committee of American Legion Post 53.  He said that he has received several comments regarding how the Legionnaires have been treated over the past few months, during their presentations to the Village Council. Mr. Stout stated that Legionnaires are tough and are no strangers to adversity.  Some members have been shot at by enemies with either rifles, battleships or airplanes.  Some were spat upon in the late 1960s and 1970s during and after the Vietnam War.  Some members were not spat upon simply because they did not survive the war.  Mr. Stout stated that the American Legion wants to honor those families who lost loved ones in the war by donating the Gold Star Monument to the Village.  Mr. Stout said that they never expected those on the Village Council, none of whom ever served in the military would pose such barriers to this project.

 

Bob Paoli, 368 North Pleasant Avenue, stated that he is a veteran and member of American Legion Post 53, and that he and other veteran members were present at this evening’s meeting.  He stated that they are only veterans because they were “very, very lucky.”  Their lives were spared, but many of their comrades’ lives were not.  He said that Gold Star Families have made the greatest sacrifice by giving up their sons and daughters in order to preserve our traditions, way of life, and beliefs.  He mentioned how many times the members of the American Legion have appeared before the Village Council in the past, in order to be able to donate the Gold Star Monument to the Village.  He said it was a simple monument, not a building, proposed to be placed on the east side of the existing War Memorial.  It would face toward the inside of the park and would be in harmony with the existing War Memorial. 

 

Mr. Paoli stated that the American Legion has answered all of the questions posed by the Village Councilmembers and has addressed all of their concerns.  However, at the last meeting, Councilman Vagianos stated that the design was close and that they were “almost there.”  He asked why the American Legion could not move forward with the placement of the Gold Star Monument.

 

Kirsten Dickson, 79 Madison Place, said that she is a veteran and a member of American Legion Post 53.  Her daughter is a Vietnam veteran. She understands that there are many things to consider before the Gold Star Monument can be installed, due to the importance and sentiment that Memorial Park at Van Neste Square holds for the community.  Memorial Park is not only a beloved gathering place, but it also acts as a lasting symbol in appreciation of fallen soldiers. 

 

When Ms. Dickson visits the existing War Memorial and other memorials in Memorial Park, she not only thinks of the soldiers, sailors and airmen who are being commemorated, but also the surviving families. She can appreciate the loss that these families feel, as well as their longing for a lasting memorial to be built, to remind others in the future of the sacrifices made by these brave men and women.  The names on the existing War Memorial and the design of the memorial itself may seem archaic to some, but it serves as a constant reminder. 

 

Ms. Dickson said that the proposed Gold Star Monument “realigns” Memorial Park towards its intended purpose.  The erection of the monument will memorialize the sacrifices made in the past and will ensure that these fallen soldiers and their surviving families will not be forgotten by future generations.  Ms. Dickson remarked that the monument was intentionally designed to be simple and befitting of “one coming from a newer generation.” She said that if the style of the Gold Star Monument does not exactly match the existing monument, it may be because it is not a reflection of the sentiment of the anguished families of those originally commemorated, but instead those who came afterwards.  She felt that the design should be more modern, since it looks forward to what comes after loss.  The design is perfect to the American Legion members.

 

Maria Bombace, 168 Chestnut Street, stated that her relationship with Commander Paoli and the American Legion began 17 years ago, when her oldest son was deployed and thereafter when her younger son was deployed.  Her sons have been supported by the American Legion with care packages and mail, and her family has been supported in the Village as well.  In 2005, a small group of Ridgewood moms, who had sons deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan, met regularly to update each other with news and to alleviate the anxiety each mother was experiencing.  Their boys all returned home.  Realizing how easily a mother can become a Gold Star Mother, she approached Commander Paoli with the idea of starting a yearly event for Gold Star Mothers in Ridgewood to honor them.  Many of the Village Councilmembers have attended this event over the past 13 years. Ms. Bombace indicated that the Village Council and Village residents have always supported this event, a source of pride for the Village.

 

Ms. Bombace indicated that about two years ago, the Legionnaires began to develop a plan to create a permanent monument to honor Gold Star Families, especially the 114 Ridgewood families whose sons’ names are engraved on the existing War Memorial.  The Legionnaires have appeared before the Village Council numerous times and have been receptive to suggestions and changes.  Ms. Bombace said that now was the time to move forward.  She asked the Village Councilmembers to support the American Legion to “get to the finish line.”

 

Rurik Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, said that no one is as supportive of veterans as his wife, Cynthia, and gave a history of the members of her family who served in the military.  One of her projects has been to clean up the existing War Memorial and planting the urns at the War Memorial.  He stated that everyone in Ridgewood is in favor of erecting the Gold Star Monument.  Mr. Halaby said that what should be a wonderful event bringing people closer together, has become a divisive event tearing people apart.  Three or four designs of the monument have been presented to the Village Council and all have been rejected.  Mr. Halaby stated that the Village Councilmembers have led the Legionnaires “down the garden path” by being told they would work together to get the project finished.  He encouraged everyone to work together in a united manner.

 

There were no further public comments.

 

Mayor Knudsen said that she was “astonished” at some of the comments made this evening.  She stated that she has never been a Council Liaison to the PRC Board, and neither the former nor current liaison has ever mentioned having to appear before the PRC Board until last week. She has worked with the Gold Star Monument Committee for quite a while, and committee members have appeared before the Village Council on multiple occasions.  She stated that the comment that she led the Legionnaires “down a primrose path” was simply not true.  She only helped to develop a presentation for the Gold Star Monument as a member of the committee. 

 

Mayor Knudsen stated that the Gold Star Monument Committee actually worked with an architect and his son, who volunteered countless hours.  Mayor Knudsen stated that the American Legion designed this monument and it is their gift to the Village; however, the Village Council soundly rejected it on a few occasions. The American Legion considered the Village Council’s suggestions, yet it was still rejected as recently as last week.  Mayor Knudsen apologized for the actions of some of the Village Councilmembers.  She reiterated that the design of the Gold Star Monument is strictly that of American Legion Post 53.

 

Councilman Vagianos thanked all the Legionnaires and their families for attending the meeting this evening and for speaking respectfully and passionately about the Gold Star Monument.  He stated that he has had in-person meetings, and numerous phone calls, with members in order to have this matter finalized.  He did not view the first design, and stated that he recalled the second design, which depicted a family sitting on the risers of the memorial, which he voted to approve but others did not.  A third, very large monument was proposed, but once observing the proposed placement of the monument in the park, it was discovered that the location was where the Village in-ground Christmas tree is planted.  Councilman Vagianos stated that this was the very thing with which the PRC Board could have helped.

 

Councilman Vagianos remarked that the Gold Star Monument will be the most important monument that has ever graced Memorial Park at Van Neste Square.  It will last well beyond his lifetime, and commemorates families that have made a sacrifice greater than the vast majority of people can ever conceive.  The Gold Star Families deserves the respect and dignity of a monument that is prominent and thought provoking.  He said that the design should not be left in the hands of those who have no “design talents,” which is why he has enlisted the talents of two local professionals to help with the process:  Tess Giuliani, a noted designer, and Lynne Brady, an architect.  Both Ms. Giuliani and Ms. Brady have sat on the Historic Preservation Commission and are residents of Ridgewood.  They have collaborated on past projects and stated that they would be deeply moved and honored to be able to assist with the Gold Star Monument project.  He plans to have both professionals meet as soon as possible with members of the Gold Star Monument Committee to brainstorm about the design, after which time the design will be presented to the PRC Board for review, and then to the Village Council for approval. 

 

Councilman Vagianos said that the hard part will be raising the funds so that the monument can be erected. He stated that he was personally pledging $1,000.00 towards the erection of this monument.  He said that there is a saying, “You can get it done fast, or you can get it done right,” and stated that this monument needs to be “done right” because Gold Star Families deserve that.  He said that some people have tried to make this matter personal.  He said that it is personal, personal to him and personal to those who have lost a loved one.

 

Deputy Mayor Perron also thanked all of the Legionnaires who attended the meeting this evening.  She stated that she agreed with Ms. Bombace that this monument needs to be completed soon.  Deputy Mayor Perron remarked that if someone wanted to erect a monument in Central Park, the project would be vetted through innumerable agencies and other stakeholders, and would receive professional input. Deputy Mayor Perron recalled what Maya Lin had to go through before the Vietnam Memorial was finally installed in Washington, DC.  She urged the Legionnaires to work with professionals so that the desired “emotional response” to the monument is achieved, emotions such as awe, respect, wonder, and recognition of the sacrifices made by Gold Star Families.  She would like to see this project succeed with input from trained professionals.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds began by apologizing to the Legionnaires for what the Village Council has put them through over the past 15 months.  She could not understand why nothing was said at the first presentation about the need for a design architect and approval by the PRC Board.  She acknowledged that the American Legion members have incorporated all of the suggestions made by the Village Council and made numerous presentations.  She stated that whether one likes or dislikes a particular design is subjective.  Even working with a designer, the same scenario could occur.  She emphasized the fact that the monument is a gift from the Legionnaires, and should be solely designed by them, not by someone else.  The project was previously placed on this evening’s agenda for a vote, but it was subsequently removed.  She asked Ms. Mailander to place this matter back on the agenda for a vote this evening.

 

Mayor Knudsen expressed confidence that the Gold Star Monument would soon be installed in Memorial Park in Van Neste Square.  She has begun fundraising for the erection of the monument.  She stated that anyone wishing to donate funds for the erection of the monument may send a check to American Legion Post 53.  She said she was looking forward to voting on the project this evening.

 

Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney, stated that the Open Public Meetings Act (OPMA) requires that a meeting agenda containing items to be voted on, must be posted 48 hours before such meeting.  He said that he was not sure whether the agenda this evening was posted 48 hours in advance.  Mayor Knudsen mentioned that perhaps a “consensus roll call” could be taken this evening.  Mr. Rogers stated that no official vote can be taken if a matter is not placed on an agenda, and the Gold Star Monument matter was not listed on the agenda for this evening’s meeting.

 

 

 

 

 

6.         VILLAGE MANAGER’S REPORT

 

Ms. Mailander stated that on December 17 and December 24, 2022, Santa will hear everyone’s holiday wishes at Santa’s House in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square from 11:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M.

 

On December 17 and 24, 2022, free parking (four hours maximum) will be available to visitors to the Central Business District (CBD) on the second and third floors of the Hudson Street Garage.  She encouraged everyone to shop and dine in Ridgewood’s historic CBD.

 

The 10^th Annual Hanukkah Menorah Lighting will take place on December 18, 2022 from 5:30 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. in the public forum space in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square. This is being presented by the Jewish community of Ridgewood, Temple Israel and JCC, and the Jewish Federation of Northern New Jersey. There will be live musical entertainment and free giveaways.

 

Sale of parking permits for Ridgewood residents and non-residents will begin on December 20, 2022 at the Village Hall reception desk.  Individuals must present their driver’s license and vehicle registration when purchasing the permits.

 

All Village departments and offices will be closed on December 23, 2022, December 26, 2022, and January 2, 2023 in observance of the Christmas and New Year’s holidays.  There will be no recycling or garbage pickup on December 26^th or January 2^nd, and the Recycling Center will be closed.  There will be garbage and recycling pickup on December 23^rd. Christmas tree pickup begins on December 27, 2022 on the east side, with west side collection occurring the following week.  A similar alternating schedule will be observed until the end of January.

 

Upcoming Village Council meetings are broadcast live from the Village Hall Courtroom, on the Village website, on FIOS Channel 34 and YouTube.  There will be a Reorganization Meeting on January 4, 2023 at 6:30 P.M., followed by a Village Council Public Work Session at 7:30 P.M.  The next Public Meeting is scheduled for January 11, 2023 at 8:00 P.M.  Further Public Work Sessions will be held on January 25 and February 1, 2023 at 7:30 P.M.

 

7.         VILLAGE COUNCIL REPORTS

 

Councilman Vagianos stated that he had nothing to report.

 

Deputy Mayor Perron stated that the Shade Tree Commission met and was debriefed on the planting of 90 trees in the Central Business District, along with 192 trees which were planted in residential areas throughout the Village.  She has heard on numerous occasions that 500 trees per year, for the next 10 years, would need to be planted in the Village in order to refurbish its tree canopy.  Additional staffing in the Parks Department would be needed in order to achieve that goal.  Various grant funding was also discussed.

 

The Central Business District Advisory Committee (CBDAC) met to discuss implementation of the Master Plan.  Several guests were at the meeting, including some realtors who play a big part in bringing people to Ridgewood.  They did not finish prioritizing action items from the Master Plan, but this will continue at the next CBDAC meeting.

 

Deputy Mayor Perron indicated that the Green Ridgewood Committee also met.  They agreed to start their meetings at 7:30 instead of 7:00 going forward.  Some speakers are scheduled to attend to talk about the deer population and Lyme disease.  They are planning some educational field trips, possibly to the leaf composting facility, the new Ridgewood Water headquarters, and the sewage treatment plant in Glen Rock.

 

With the Christmas season approaching, Deputy Mayor Perron wanted to remind residents about the new Styrofoam densifier at the Recycling Center, which can condense extruded polystyrene (EPS) Styrofoam (usually used in packaging).  Throwing Styrofoam away in the garbage or bulk waste takes up a lot of space in garbage trucks, requiring more truck runs and more gas usage.  The EPS must be white and cannot be pellets (peanuts) or clamshell takeout food containers.  Tape must be taken off the Styrofoam before being brought to the Recycling Center.  The condensed EPS is then reused to make picture frames, moldings, rulers, and other items.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds reported that she has had no committee meetings since last week.  She wished Happy Holidays to everyone.  Mayor Knudsen stated that she also had nothing new to report.  She wished everyone a Happy Holiday season.

 

8.         ORDINANCES – RIDGEWOOD WATER

 

Ms. Mailander stated that there are no introductions of, or public hearings on, ordinances for Ridgewood Water this evening.

 

9.         RESOLUTIONS – RIDGEWOOD WATER

 

Ms. Mailander stated that the following resolutions, numbered 22-384 through 22-396 were to be adopted by a consent agenda, and would be read by title only:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that resolutions 22-397 through 22-398 would be considered separately and read in full.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10.       ORDINANCES

 

A.        PUBLIC HEARING - #3928 – AMEND CHAPTER 190 – LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT – SIGNS IN HIGHWAY COMMERCIAL (HC) ZONE

 

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3928 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3928 by title only:

 

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 190 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT, AT “SECTION 190-122, SIGNS”

 

Mayor Knudsen opened the Public Hearing on Ordinance #3928.  There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

Deputy Mayor Perron moved that Ordinance #3928 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

 

B.        PUBLIC HEARING - #3929 – AMEND CHAPTER 190 – LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT – ARTICLE XIII – AFFORDABLE HOUSING

 

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3929 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened.  Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3929 by title only:

 

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND PROVISIONS ARTICLE XIII “AFFORDABLE HOUSING”

 

Mayor Knudsen stated that the Planning Board reviewed this ordinance and requested that the formatting of the ordinance be changed, so that it is clearly laid out.  In addition, on page 5 of the ordinance, at section 190-141 B., the word “Township” should be changed to “Village” twice in that paragraph.  Since these are not substantive changes to the ordinance, Mayor Knudsen said that she would take a motion at this time to amend Ordinance #3929, as recommended by the Planning Board.

 

Deputy Mayor Perron moved that the amendments to Ordinance #3929, as recommended by the Planning Board, and outlined by the Mayor, be adopted and incorporated into Ordinance #3929. Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

Mayor Knudsen then opened the Public Hearing on Ordinance #3929, as amended.  There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed.  Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.

 

 

 

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

Deputy Mayor Perron moved that Ordinance #3929, as amended, be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law.  Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

C.        PUBLIC HEARING - #3930 – AMEND CHAPTER 265 – VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC – PERMIT PARKING – ALLOW NON-RESIDENTS TO PURCHASE RIDGEWOOD PARKING PERMITS

 

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3930 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3930 by title only:

 

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-33, “PERMIT PARKING”

 

Mayor Knudsen opened the Public Hearing on Ordinance #3930.  There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

 

 

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

Deputy Mayor Perron moved that Ordinance #3930 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

D.        PUBLIC HEARING - #3931 – AMEND CHAPTER 3 – ADMINISTRATION OF GOVERNMENT

 

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3931 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened.  Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3931 by title only:

 

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 3 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, ADMINISTRATION OF GOVERNMENT

 

Mayor Knudsen opened the Public Hearing on Ordinance #3931. 

 

Boyd A. Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that he previously spoke about this matter at a prior public meeting.  Following that meeting, Mr. Rogers spoke to Mr. Loving about the genesis of this ordinance.  Even though he understands the reasoning, Mr. Loving stated that he was still concerned that the posting of signs designating a restricted area may “get out of control” unless closely monitored.  Specifically, he is concerned that areas, which are now accessible to the public, may all of a sudden be “off limits” and preclude a taxpayer, for example, from speaking to staff in the Tax Office. Mr. Loving is concerned that such signs may be posted at the Engineering Office and Tax Assessor’s Office. In such case, windows may need to be constructed along the hallway walls so that members of the public may approach the windows, rather than going inside the office itself, to ask questions of the staff.  This would become an extra expense that taxpayers will be asked to bear.

 

Mr. Loving stated that he feels there are some Village employees who do not wish to interact with the public, and he is concerned that these signs will provide them with a convenient excuse not to speak with members of the public.  If this ordinance is adopted, Mr. Loving asked that the situation be monitored so that it does not get out of control.  He added that now, with the new phone system, Village staff knows who is calling and may decide whether or not to answer the phone.  This is also the case with emails.  This will restrict residents from being able to contact a Village employee in case they need to speak to them.  He wished everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

 

Mayor Knudsen asked how this situation would be monitored.  Ms. Mailander stated that she does not foresee these signs “closing down” an office.  For instance, if a resident wanted to speak with someone in the Engineering Department, and there is a sign stating that the office is a restricted area, the resident would probably need to be escorted into the office so that they can conduct their business or ask their questions.  Regarding the Tax Assessor’s Office, the signs would restrict access only to the back end of the office where the desks and filing cabinets are located.  Ms. Mailander stated that she will ensure that the matter is monitored and that members of the public retain access to various Village employees.

 

There were no further comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed.  Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

Deputy Mayor Perron moved that Ordinance #3931 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law.  Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

E.        PUBLIC HEARING - #3932 – BOND ORDINANCE – ACQUISITION OF ENERGY SYSTEMS

 

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3932 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3932 by title only:

 

BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE ACQUISITION OF WASTE TO ENERGY AND PHOTOVOLTAIC ENERGY SYSTEMS IN AND BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $515,000 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $490,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE PART OF THE COST THEREOF

 

Mayor Knudsen opened the Public Hearing on Ordinance #3932.  There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

Councilman Vagianos moved that Ordinance #3932 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

F.         PUBLIC HEARING - #3933 – PBA AND PBA SUPERIORS SALARY ORDINANCE

 

Mayor Knudsen recused herself from this discussion.  Deputy Mayor Perron moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3933 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, and Vagianos

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

RECUSE:     Mayor Knudsen

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3933 by title only:

 

AN ORDINANCE TO FIX SALARIES, WAGES, AND OTHER COMPENSATION OF AND FOR POLICE OFFICERS AND POLICE SUPERIOR OFFICERS OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, COUNTY OF BERGEN, AND STATE OF NEW JERSEY

 

Mayor Knudsen opened the Public Hearing on Ordinance #3933.  There were no comments from the public and Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing be closed.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, and Vagianos

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

RECUSE:     Mayor Knudsen

 

Councilman Vagianos moved that Ordinance #3933 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, and Vagianos

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

RECUSE:     Mayor Knudsen

11.       RESOLUTIONS

 

Ms. Mailander stated that the following resolutions, numbered 22-399 through 22-432 were to be adopted by a consent agenda and read by title only:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12.       COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

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

 

Boyd A. Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that there does not seem to be any uniformity with respect to awards for professional services.  He has noted that some of the awards indicate that Pay to Play forms had been filled out, and in some cases they have not (such as for the pediatrician for the Child Health Clinics).   He asked why some individuals or organizations have to fill out and file a Pay to Play form, while others do not.

 

Mr. Loving indicated that he was very upset to see that the Village paid $500,000.00 more for the completion of the project at the Water Pollution Control Facility.  He said that he never heard any discussion regarding this matter during a Work Session.  He understood that this was a legal matter that was probably discussed in Closed Session, but was still concerned that such a large sum of money is being spent without the public being aware of the details.

 

Mr. Loving said that he was disappointed that the Village has only one option in terms of publishing legal notices (since one company owns both newspapers).  He said that he has become very disappointed lately with the coverage from the local newspaper, citing that there was no mention whatsoever of the “Downtown for the Holidays” event, despite it being one of the biggest events of the year.  However, these newspapers are paid thousands of dollars a year for the publication of legal notices.  Mr. Loving mentioned that there is pending legislation in New Jersey proposing that legal notices will no longer need to be published in the newspaper but could instead be posted on a municipality’s website.

 

Rurik Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, said that he agreed with Mr. Loving about the $500,000.00 being spent, since he has no information whatsoever regarding the nature of this expenditure.  He would like more information regarding same.

 

Mr. Halaby said that he finally managed to print the plans regarding the Schedler property, but the writing was so small that he couldn’t read anything.  He would like to obtain another set of plans (not a full size, but maybe half or quarter size), so that he can read the details on the plans.  However, he does not want to pay for it, because he feels that the Village should make enlarged plans available to the public upon request.

 

When directly questioned by Mr. Halaby, Ms. Mailander replied that she was not sure whether the plans could be printed in that manner, but she would find out if it could be done and what the charge would be for same.  Mr. Halaby reiterated that he does not want to pay for anything, stating that he is entitled to be able to read the information contained in the plans, which are posted on the Village website.  Ms. Mailander invited Mr. Halaby to come to Village Hall to view the full-sized plans.  Ms. Mailander indicated that under the Open Public Records Act (OPRA), she would be allowed to charge Mr. Halaby for the cost of the reproduction.  Mr. Halaby steadfastly refused to pay for anything, reiterating that he cannot read the plans on his computer or on his printouts, that he pays taxes, and that he is entitled, as an interested resident, to be provided with plans that he can read, at no charge. 

 

When questioned by Mayor Knudsen, Mr. Halaby replied that he can expand the plans on his computer, but that it is difficult to do so because zooming in on one area, obscures his ability to view the “big picture.”  Councilman Vagianos stated that he is waiting for an enlarged copy of the plans so that he can read them.  He said that Mr. Halaby would be welcome to borrow his set of plans to review.  Mr. Halaby thanked Councilman Vagianos for his offer, but stated that he felt the Village should provide him and other residents with plans that they can read. 

 

Deputy Mayor Perron stated that OPRA requires the Village to produce documents and charge the person requesting the documents for the cost of such reproduction.  She offered to pay the fee on Mr. Halaby’s behalf.  Mr. Halaby thanked her for her offer, but repeated that he felt the Village should provide him with readable plans at no cost.  Deputy Mayor Perron replied that it doesn’t make sense that the Village should have to reproduce these plans for 25,000 residents.  After further back-and-forth discussion, Mr. Rogers interjected that the Village must abide by OPRA, which does not entitle residents to a free full copy of the plans. There was further discussion about when fees could be charged or not charged regarding an OPRA request.  Mayor Knudsen finalized the conversation by asking Mr. Halaby to file an appropriate OPRA request and let it be handled by the Village Clerk’s Office.

 

Anne Loving, 352 South Irving Street, said that she understands Councilwoman Reynolds’ request to have a vote this evening regarding the Gold Star Monument, and that the request was denied because the matter was not on the printed agenda.  However, she does not understand why it was not placed on the agenda, since she was present at the December 7, 2022 meeting when Ms. Mailander read off the items that would be on this evening’s agenda.

 

Regarding Councilman Vagianos’s comment about, “Get it done fast or get it done right,” Ms. Loving remarked that sometimes getting something done fast is getting it done right.  She doesn’t feel that the Gold Star Monument has been done fast or rushed in any way, stating that this matter has been going on for over a year.  In addition, regarding Deputy Mayor Perron’s comments comparing Van Neste Square to Central Park in New York City or the mall in Washington, DC, Ms. Loving said that these locations did not compare equally to Ridgewood.

 

Regarding people who speak during public comments, Ms. Loving said that people often begin by stating how long they have lived in the Village.  She said that it doesn’t matter if a person has lived in the Village for only five minutes.  They have just as much right to state their opinion as someone who has lived in the Village for 50 years.

 

Since this is the last meeting over which Mayor Knudsen will be presiding, Ms. Loving thanked Mayor Knudsen for all she has done for Ridgewood over the many years she has served on the Village Council.  She stated that the depth of municipal government knowledge possessed by Mayor Knudsen will be a tremendous loss to the Village.  Mayor Knudsen thanked Ms. Loving for her kind words.

 

Mayor Knudsen mentioned a prior comment that the Village may be in violation of OPMA regarding taking the matter of the Gold Star Monument off of this evening’s agenda.  She asked Ms. Mailander how the item was removed from the agenda.

 

Ms. Mailander replied that it was brought to her attention that when there were requests to have the hybrid meetings put to a vote, there was no clear majority that wanted to have a vote.  There was no clear majority regarding the Gold Star Monument, either, since it is apparent that the Village Councilmembers are divided on this issue, and there is no fifth Councilmember to break the deadlock.  In order to be fair and abide by the precedent that was set regarding the hybrid meetings, Ms. Mailander felt that the matter should be taken off the agenda.  When asked by Mayor Knudsen who requested the item to be taken off the agenda, Ms. Mailander replied that Councilman Vagianos had brought to her attention that the hybrid meetings were not put on an agenda for a vote, which set a precedent.

 

Anne Loving stated that there was definitely a clear vote, one way or the other, regarding the hybrid meetings, since there were five Village Councilmembers (including Mayor Knudsen) sitting on the dais.  In addition, she does not recall the matter of hybrid meetings ever being put on a meeting agenda.  By contrast, the matter of the Gold Star Monument was initially placed on the agenda for the December 14, 2022 meeting and then subsequently removed.  Ms. Loving stated that “being fair” is not necessarily the same as following the law and regulations. She stated that perhaps Councilman Vagianos’s recollection was not accurate, but if it was wrongly not put to a vote, she did not feel that it should set a precedent.

 

There were no further public comments and Mayor Knudsen closed the public comments portion of the meeting. 

 

Ms. Mailander explained that Pay to Play forms must be filled out and filed for any Professional Services contract exceeding $17,500.00.

 

13.       CLOSED SESSION

 

Ms. Mailander read the following resolution #22-433, to go into Closed Session:

 

 

 

14.       ADJOURNMENT

 

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Deputy Mayor Perron, seconded by Councilman Vagianos, and carried by unanimous voice vote, the Village Council’s Regular Public Meeting was adjourned at 9:40 P.M.

 

 

 

 

 

                                                ____________________________________

                                                                                                Susan Knudsen

                                                                                                       Mayor

 

 

 

 

_______________________________________

                     Heather A. Mailander

             Village Manager/Village Clerk

A SPECIAL PUBLIC MEETING OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY, ON SEPTEMBER 26, 2022 AT 7:00 P.M.

 

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

 

Mayor Knudsen called the Special Public Meeting to order at 7:02 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act.  At roll call the following were present:  Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen.  Also present was Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk.

 

Mayor Knudsen led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag and asked for a moment of silence in recognition of all Gold Star Mothers and families.  She mentioned that the Gold Star Mothers event was canceled last evening.

 

2.         COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

NONE.

 

3.         INTERVIEWS WITH CONSULTANTS FOR RESIDENTIAL ENERGY AGGREGATION AND QUESTIONS FROM THE VILLAGE COUNCIL

 

            A.        GOOD ENERGY

 

Charles de Casteja indicated that the Directors of Good Energy for the Mid-Atlantic Region, (John Burke and Gary Swatner), provided a response to the RFP sent out by Ridgewood for a consultant for government energy aggregation.  Mr. de Casteja explained that government energy aggregation enables a community to buy energy (electric power in this case) on behalf of all residents of that community.  Most residents in Ridgewood use Public Service Electric & Gas (PSE&G) as their electric energy supplier.  Residents excluded from this energy aggregation program would be those who use suppliers other than PSE&G.  Mr. de Casteja explained that his company is the leader in energy aggregation in the United States.  There are approximately 300 communities which use Good Energy for their energy aggregation needs.  There is Federal legislation, called the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which allows communities to purchase clean energy on behalf of their residents.

 

Mr. de Casteja indicated that these programs are used primarily to buy more renewable energy than what is currently offered by large suppliers, such as PSE&G, and offer more savings to customers.  He said that energy prices are “out of control” globally and have increased significantly.  His company works with approximately 50 different suppliers nationwide, and their rates have already tripled.  He explained that the four major utilities in New Jersey have to purchase energy in February of every year, and they have to purchase one-third of what they anticipate to be their expected load.  PSE&G purchased energy three weeks before Russia invaded Ukraine; therefore, what is occurring in the rest of the United States with rising energy prices has not yet occurred in New Jersey, but will occur when they have to purchase energy again in February 2024.

 

Mr. de Casteja stated that the winter rates for Massachusetts were announced yesterday and the rate is 33¢ per kilowatt hour versus 14¢ per kilowatt hour for New Jersey.  When a community signs up for an energy aggregation program, the community is usually able to purchase energy at a lower price than a utility can.  Since the RFP specified the desire to purchase more renewable energy, Mr. de Casteja indicated that this is achievable.

 

Mr. de Casteja explained the process by which a community would sign up for an energy aggregation program.  The governing body would need to first pass an ordinance to hire an energy aggregation consultant, then hire a consultant and sign a contract with them.  The Village would then sign a separate agreement with PSE&G to allow them to release aggregation data to the hired consultant.  This data would not include specific Ridgewood residents but would instead include monthly usage data and number of customers and would designate how Ridgewood uses power.  Once this data is obtained, the consultant would take that data and price it with one of their suppliers.  If there were a significant difference from the current rates of PSE&G, the consultant would submit the bid specs to the Board of Public Utilities (Division of Rate Counsel) for review and feedback.  If the review came back satisfactory, then Good Energy would move forward with a public bid (minus any residents who opted out of the program).  Mr. de Casteja said that there will most likely be residents who opt out of the renewable energy program.

 

Good Energy currently services many customers of PSE&G through communities which they represent, including major cities in Middlesex County (Woodbridge, Piscataway, and New Brunswick) and Gloucester County.  Mr. de Casteja explained that none of those programs are currently active because of the prices that now exist.  He recommended that a community such as Ridgewood take care of completing the “early steps” of hiring an energy aggregation consultant, so that when prices do become favorable in the market, the Village will be in the proper position to move forward with bidding with a supplier.  He explained that the communities represented by Good Energy at the present time are comprised of approximately 130,000 households, which represents a lot of “buying power” for renewable energy.  He mentioned that there will be some pilot programs in the State of New Jersey going forward.  Mr. de Casteja stated that Good Energy is seeking to become the retained consultant for Ridgewood, through the Educational Services Commission of New Jersey.  He stated that Good Energy is the only company seeking to become the energy aggregation consultant for Ridgewood as a private-public partnership.

 

Mr. de Casteja stated that public awareness and education of residents is essential to the success of a community entering into an energy aggregation program.  He mentioned that some communities require a referendum (public question) to be voted upon by the residents.

 

Mayor Knudsen recalled that a number of municipalities, which had joined a different energy aggregation program (Sustainable Essex), are not going to continue to participate in the program because energy prices have escalated much higher than the prices offered by PSE&G.  These municipalities included Livingston, Glen Rock, and Orange.  She asked what would happen if PSE&G is purchasing energy in January or February of 2024 on a projected energy need, yet perhaps half the residents of a community are using a supplier other than PSE&G.  Mr. de Casteja replied that PSE&G will be aware of which customers have either returned to PSE&G as their supplier (after previously signing up with a different energy supplier) well in advance of the time during which they have to purchase energy in February 2024.

 

Deputy Mayor Perron said that it was her understanding that Sustainable Essex Aggregation renewed their contract in April.  Mayor Knudsen stated that the contract was terminated in August with Energy Harbor and the contract was not renewed.  All customers have been notified that they are reverting back to PSE&G as of October 1, 2022. 

 

Councilman Vagianos wanted to confirm that the Village would not need to pay any money to Good Energy, and this was confirmed by Mr. de Casteja.  Good Energy only gets paid (by the ratepayers) if the Village signs up with a particular supplier whose prices are less than those offered by PSE&G.  He indicated that they were paid consulting fees in California; however, he feels that the Village would fare better if the consultant is paid when the Village signs up with a new supplier.

 

Councilman Vagianos also asked how long the Village would need to engage the services of Good Energy, and Mr. de Casteja replied that it was entirely up to the Village how long the services of Good Energy would be used.  Ms. Mailander replied that the specifications state that Good Energy would be engaged for three years, with an option to renew for two more years if both parties consented. 

 

Councilman Vagianos asked why a municipality would cancel the services of Good Energy, since it wouldn’t cost a community any money to do so.  Mr. de Casteja replied that he couldn’t understand why anyone would cancel their services, but a municipality could perhaps “drop” their services if they were not satisfied with Good Energy’s performance.  He said that since the Village currently has no energy aggregation program, it has the option of “riding along” while Good Energy is pricing the other PSE&G groups anyway.  Since 2013, there have only been three or four windows of opportunity where it was abundantly clear to go with PSE&G pricing.  The Village would have the option of seeking its own pricing or joining with other municipalities for a more favorable rate with “buying power.”  However, if a municipality does not seize the opportunity when the “time is right,” then they stand to lose the current pricing which is available.

 

Councilman Vagianos asked how many households represent purchase power through Good Energy in New Jersey.  Mr. de Casteja said that there are 1.2 million customers who utilize Good Energy to purchase energy nationwide.  In New Jersey, he said that the only available program that makes any economic sense is Jersey Central Power and Light (JCP&L) in Byram Township.  Renewable energy certificates are very expensive at the current time.

 

Mayor Knudsen asked if PSE&G needs to base their customer rates, by law, on the price they paid when they purchased the energy in February 2022.  Mr. de Casteja said that the PSE&G stated rate is not the rate which customers pay.  There are adjustments made either monthly or quarterly which fluctuate up and down (purchase energy adjustment).  Rates are relatively stable for consumers.  He said that one of the problems in New Jersey is that PSE&G is allowed to note in their bills to customers the savings that customers would have realized if they had remained with PSE&G and had not switched to another supplier.  Mayor Knudsen remarked that this is exactly what happened with the municipality residents who realized that PSE&G’s prices were better than those of the supplier obtained through the energy aggregation program.

 

Councilman Vagianos asked how many households are presently under contract with Good Energy that are “waiting in the wings” in New Jersey to “pull the trigger.”  Mr. de Casteja said that there were approximately 180,000 households in New Jersey, including those in Gloucester Township, Piscataway, Woodbridge, South Brunswick, and East Brunswick. 

 

Councilman Vagianos asked what would prevent a consultant from choosing a supplier for a municipality merely for the purpose of getting paid.  Mr. de Casteja replied that the decision to contract with a certain supplier rests solely with the Village.  Councilman Vagianos stated that it would be prudent for the consultant to find the best energy prices available for a municipality so that a contract is signed and, therefore, the consultant gets paid.  Mr. de Casteja stated that his company has a “reputational” risk.  They currently have communities they have serviced for 12 years, so they are motivated to protect their reputation by seeking out the most cost-efficient prices in the market and recommending the right time to sign a contract.  He recommends that the Village complete all the necessary preliminary steps (ordinances, obtaining data from PSE&G, and having bid specs approved by the Board of Public Utilities) so that the Village will be in a position to sign a contract at the appropriate time.  He estimated that the preliminary steps would take approximately three months.

 

When questioned by Deputy Mayor Perron, Mr. de Casteja again reviewed the process.  If Good Energy is hired as the consultant for Ridgewood, then Village officials would need to sign an agreement allowing Good Energy to receive the aggregation data from PSE&G.  If too much time passes before a contract is signed with another supplier other than PSE&G, then the data must be updated by PSE&G and then sent to the Board of Public Utilities again for review.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds asked if the Village will be “locked in” with Good Energy for three years if they are hired as the consultant for the Village.  This was confirmed by Mr. de Casteja.  She asked whether individual residents would also be locked in for three years with Good Energy.  Mr. de Casteja said that residents are able to opt out of the program at any time during the three-year period, in the event that a signed agreement is completed with a supplier.  Councilwoman Reynolds asked what would happen if most Ridgewood residents opted out of the program.  Mr. de Casteja said that residents will not have any recourse against Ridgewood in that event.

 

Mayor Knudsen asked what the opt-out rate is typically.  Mr. de Casteja said that the opt-out rate is typically 10% to 15%.  Mayor Knudsen recalled switching to another supplier in the past, and enjoying the incentives she received for switching to that supplier, but stated that she realized PSE&G always had the most consistent pricing and eventually switched back to PSE&G as her supplier.  Mayor Knudsen said that she assumed if too many people opted out of the program, the supplier would not be too pleased.  Mr. de Casteja stated that it is a business decision for a supplier and they take into account the number of “opt outs” which they may receive.  He added that the vast majority of residents in a municipality will not opt out of a program chosen by a municipality.  Residents can opt out, but a municipality cannot recommend to residents to opt out because then the municipality would be in breach of contract. 

 

A discussion ensued regarding how the duration and terms of contracts may vary from state to state, sometimes lasting only 17 months and sometimes lasting as long as 60 months (Rhode Island).  Mr. de Casteja described a “blend and extend” method by which the duration of a contract is negotiated and extended in order to lower the aggregation rate.  There was a discussion about traunches (series of payments to be paid out over a specified period, subject to certain performance metrics being achieved) and stable rates versus fixed rates.

 

Deputy Mayor Perron asked if it would be worthwhile exploring/partnering with other municipalities, even towns which are not local but which are serviced by PSE&G.  She asked whether the arrival of offshore energy (electricity) will open up a window of opportunity for the Village.  Mr. de Casteja said that he did not know.  He explained the progression of the energy crisis, which began with the global financial crisis in 2008, when a lot of industrial load was lost in the United States.  He stated that the country was oversupplied with fossil fuel overgeneration, with natural gas getting so inexpensive that drilling for natural gas ceased.  He said that many renewable energy producers were “on schedule” and then thrown off schedule during the Covid-19 pandemic, when there were supply chain issues and labor shortages.  Mr. de Casteja said that natural gas prices “went through the roof” after the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds asked Mr. de Casteja why the Village should hire Good Energy as its consultant.  He said his company is the national leader in negotiating energy prices and has the largest buying group in New Jersey.  They are aware of National Best Practices, have leverage with suppliers, and have done more outreach and awareness campaigns than any other company.

 

Councilman Vagianos asked if 100% of the energy acquired by Good Energy would be renewable.  Mr. de Casteja stated that it would not be 100% renewable energy.  His company does “indicative pricing” whereby green energy is acquired gradually over time.  For example, the contract with Woodbridge was 50% renewable energy.  He said that the renewable energy “mix” changes every year, and suppliers in New Jersey must, by law, generate at least 24% renewable energy (baseline) at the present time to consumers.  He said that, in order to arrive at a higher renewable energy rate, his company would present the Village with a “sensitivity analysis” with price comparisons, i.e., 25% more renewable energy above the mandated percentage would cost a consumer a certain higher amount per year.  The Village would have the option of choosing a particular plan which has a desired amount of renewable energy for its residents. 

 

A discussion ensued regarding the cost of fossil fuels versus renewable energy (energy produced from sources like the sun and wind that are naturally replenished and do not run out).  Mr. de Casteja explained that renewable energy is not always more expensive than energy created by fossil fuels, such as coal.  If the Village were to partner with one or more municipalities, all of the municipalities would have to choose the same term length.  If the Village wanted to “opt up,” other municipalities would not have to agree to opt up.  Mr. de Casteja added that by hiring an energy consultant, the Village would earn Sustainable Jersey points.  He stated that Good Energy wrote the energy specifications for Sustainable Jersey.  He mentioned that Marin County, California, has one of the greenest programs in the nation (111,000 customers, with less than 1,000 in the “dark green” opt up category).   Residents can opt up into a higher renewable energy program.

 

Councilman Vagianos asked Mr. de Casteja where his company purchases its energy from, and he replied that he arranges a contract with the suppliers who buy energy in the wholesale market (the same market in which PSE&G buys energy).  Some suppliers own their own energy generation facilities (gen-tailers) and can enter the market at any time to buy energy, as opposed to PSE&G which has to buy only in February for a two-year term.  Mr. de Casteja described what he has recently seen in the energy market.

 

Deputy Mayor Perron asked whether Mr. de Casteja considered nuclear energy as part of renewable energy.  He replied that the world is starting to see nuclear energy as renewable energy, but stated that he has some personal views about nuclear energy.

 

Councilman Vagianos asked whether Mr. de Casteja could provide the Village with a list of references.  Mr. de Casteja said that he could provide such a list, along with contact information, of clients in New Jersey, along with some supplemental references from around the country.  He said that Rhode Island, through his company, recently purchased 5% more local renewables for 60 months (including Providence, Newport, and Middletown).  Deputy Mayor Perron said that, according to statute, the municipal purchasing law for Ridgewood allows terms for a maximum of 24 months.  Mr. de Casteja indicated that the Educational Services Commission of New Jersey advises his company on purchasing regulations for municipalities.

 

Deputy Mayor Perron indicated that PSE&G must provide at least 24.5% renewable energy to its customers, to be expanded to 30% by the year 2030.  When questioned by Deputy Mayor Perron, Mr. de Casteja said that the Village would be purchasing Class I RECs (Renewable Energy Certificates).  Class I RECs are market-based instruments that certifies the bearer owns one megawatt-hour of electricity generated from a renewable energy resource.  Once the power provider has fed the energy into the grid, the REC received can then be sold on the open market as an energy commodity.  Renewable energy resources consist of solar thermal, wind, low impact hydro, aerobic digester gas, and geothermal, among others.  Mr. de Casteja indicated that Gary from his office is more knowledgeable about RECs.  Deputy Mayor Perron asked if Class I RECs are PJM (Pennsylvania-New Jersey-Maryland interconnection).  Mr. de Casteja replied in the affirmative, and he stated that the vast majority are in New Jersey.

 

Mayor Knudsen thanked Mr. de Casteja for his presentation and for answering all of the questions posed to him.  She indicated that the Village will be interviewing other firms for the energy aggregation consultant position and will be in touch with him in the future.

 

            B.        TAURUS ADVISORY GROUP

 

Tara Pasca indicated that she is the Vice President of Operations for the Taurus Advisory Group, which has been in business for five years.  She indicated that the staff brings a combined 70 years of experience to the table.  She said that her boss was also going to join in the presentation this evening, but that he is presently sick with Covid.  Ms. Pasca stated that her company is not an engineering firm, but rather a “one stop energy shop” that covers the gamut of all energy services, one of which is procurement and municipal energy aggregation.  She stated that she has about eight years of experience in energy aggregation, and 16 years of energy procurement experience.  She started her career in Pennsauken Township (T&M Associates) and later joined Concord Energy Services, where she worked on large co-ops in the Sussex, Warren, Morris and Ocean County areas.  Concord Energy Services is presently working with Hoboken on an energy aggregation program.  Ms. Pasca stated that it behooves a municipality to work with Taurus Advisory Group since they work behind the scenes and try to make the best decisions for all residents.

 

Deputy Mayor Perron asked how many of the energy aggregation programs Ms. Pasca has worked on, for municipal or county governments or co-ops, have been for a greater percentage of renewable energy in New Jersey.  Ms. Pasca replied that she is currently working with Edison Township, which is in the beginning stages of establishing an energy aggregation program, and she believes that Hoboken currently has an active program, which Ms. Pasca worked on when she worked for Concord Energy Services.  Deputy Mayor Perron again asked how much of an increased percentage of renewable energy was achieved in each town.  Ms. Pasca stated that, in Hoboken, the standard rate for residents who opted into the program was 100% renewable.  She added that while sustainability is an admirable goal, not all residents want to pay extra for renewable energy, so there were options available to those residents.  The options included 100% renewable and 50% renewable (opt down), as well as options for renewable energy greater than that offered by PSE&G (23.5%, straight savings program). A municipal energy aggregation program can be structured however a municipality may choose, with a program tailored specifically for that municipality within the parameters of Title XIV (statute for municipal energy aggregation programs).

 

Mayor Knudsen remarked that she occasionally receives correspondence in the mail stating that she is very energy efficient.  She asked how much it would cost a consumer receiving 100% renewable energy versus the percentage of renewable energy offered by PSE&G.  Ms. Pasca said that she did not know the answer off the top of her head but would get that information to the Village Councilmembers tomorrow.  She could arrange for a Zoom call with her boss so that the Village Councilmembers could ask him additional questions, but Mayor Knudsen said that Ms. Pasca could supply them with the information.

 

Mayor Knudsen stated that many municipalities are terminating their energy aggregation programs because the bills which residents were receiving were higher than what they were previously paying with PSE&G.  She asked what Ms. Pasca’s observations have been in that type of situation.  Ms. Pasca replied that the market has been “out of this world” lately.  The energy year runs from June to May, and energy prices are slated to go up considerably beginning in June of 2023.  She feels that if the energy aggregation program can be started in the Village before that time, residents in Ridgewood will realize a savings on their electricity bills.  Ideally, she would like to get a fixed price for the energy before the auction in June of 2023. She reminded everyone that renewable energy costs more to generate, but when searching for energy suppliers, she always seeks to achieve the best possible savings for a municipality. She reiterated the many options offered by Taurus Advisory Group (opting down to a lesser renewable energy percentage but not less than the mandated 23.5% required by statute).

 

Upon questioning by Councilwoman Reynolds as to whether or not Taurus Advisory Group could obtain better pricing that what is currently offered by PSE&G, Ms. Pasca replied that she believes they can offer better pricing, considering “what is coming down the track in the future.”  She said that she is a PSE&G customer and is currently paying 12.5¢ per kilowatt hour.  She indicated that PSE&G is the highest priced utility in the State of New Jersey, and JCP&L charges less per kilowatt hour than PSE&G.

 

Mayor Knudsen asked Ms. Pasca what has been the highest rate she has seen in the past year.  Ms. Pasca replied that PSE&G rates have been as high as 13¢ to 14¢ per kilowatt hour during certain periods.  PSE&G, JCP&L, and Atlantic City Electric employ a “reconciliation rate” at the end of each quarter, which will lower prices for consumers.  If the Village entered into a contract with a particular supplier, and PSE&G rates became significantly lower during the term of that contract, then the consultant (Taurus Advisory Group) would self-terminate the contract and return all customers back to PSE&G so that they were not paying more for energy.  Ms. Pasca emphasized that her company always does what is best for residents.

 

Upon questioning by Councilman Vagianos, Ms. Pasca reiterated that it would be wise for Ridgewood to start the energy aggregation program process now (which can take approximately four to six months) so that it is in a position to enter into more favorable rates with an energy supplier when the opportunity presents itself, and certainly before June of 2023. This time period allows the consultant to obtain data from the energy supplier (PSE&G) and then forward the information to the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) and Division of Rate Counsel for review.  Much editing would be done by both the Village and Taurus Advisory Group before searching for an appropriate supplier.

 

Deputy Mayor Perron pointed out that this was the very reason why it is more beneficial for a resident to procure energy from a supplier through the Village, rather than a resident contacting an energy supply company which sent them a flyer in the mail.  Ms. Pasca agreed, stating that a resident would not have knowledge as to whether or not the company was offering a variable rate or fixed rate contract.  She recalled a story where she reviewed a friend’s boyfriend’s energy bill and discovered that they had engaged in a variable rate contract, starting at an attractive low price and eventually paying 19¢ per kilowatt hour.  A consultant would be a “watchdog” for Ridgewood residents, working behind the scenes to keep a close eye on rates, doing what is best for the consumer, and watching trends in government legislation concerning energy.

 

Councilman Vagianos stated that there did not appear to be a “down side” working with Taurus Advisory Group since, if rates became unfavorable, the consultant would self-terminate the contract with the energy supplier.  Ms. Pasca agreed, stating that any resident could opt out at any time.  Councilman Vagianos brought up a situation in which prices from an energy supplier were higher than what PSE&G was charging, and Ms. Pasca said that her company, in that situation, would look into how long that lower price was good for (one month versus six months) and would decide what the best course of action would be going forward (terminate contract or wait to see what happens if that lower rate is only guaranteed for one month).

 

Deputy Mayor Perron asked Ms. Pasca if she had ever renegotiated a contract (lowering a price in exchange for a longer term contract).  Ms. Pasca explained the process when a contract is due to expire. If there is a 12-month contract, her company will begin work on extending the contract well before the expiration date to see “what is coming” down the pike.  If the energy supplier offers a favorable price and contract extension, then Taurus would probably advise staying with that supplier to avoid further paperwork.  However, if that company is not offering a good rate and Taurus believes a better rate could be obtained with another supplier, then they will explore that option.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds asked Ms. Pasca how many customers Taurus Advisory Group has in the State of New Jersey.  Ms. Pasca replied that she does not know how many customers off the top of her head, but they are currently working with county governments in Ocean and Union Counties, as well as towns such as Linden-Roselle, Edison Township and North Bergen Township.

 

Mayor Knudsen asked what would happen if energy rates increased and a contract with an energy supplier is terminated.  Ms. Pasca replied that Taurus will purchase or hedge the energy at the beginning.  This is written directly into the contract.  Any kind of risk will also be included in the price, so there would be no consequence to Village residents if Taurus were to terminate a contract with an energy supplier.  Title IV requires the energy supplier to service a contract whether there is only one resident participating or 8,000 residents participating.

 

Deputy Mayor Perron asked Ms. Pasca how long a term the Village could sign a contract for regarding renewable energy, and Ms. Pasca replied that when Taurus went to auction, they would ask for 12-month, 18-month, and perhaps 24-month contract terms, but nothing past 24 months.  When asked the reason why, Ms. Pasca replied that this falls in line with the Local Public Contracts Law, whereby contracts for electricity cannot be longer than 24 months (natural gas would be for 36 months maximum).

 

Councilman Vagianos asked if Taurus Advisory Group operates outside of New Jersey.  Ms. Pasca replied that they have sales representatives (1099 employees) all over the United States.  When asked how many people are currently under contract with Taurus Advisory Group, Ms. Pasca replied that they have hundreds, if not thousands, of clients (municipalities and counties, large commercial and industrial companies, and smaller businesses such as pizza shops, car dealerships and restaurants).  Local businesses in Ridgewood can be included in the energy aggregation program, albeit a smaller program, and businesses can only opt in and cannot opt out.  The businesses must choose to participate, whereas residents can either opt out or opt up.

 

Deputy Mayor Perron indicated that the Green Ridgewood Subcommittee felt that it was too confusing to have both residents and businesses in the energy aggregation program, so it was decided to start with just residents.  Ms. Pesca agreed, stating that more outreach is needed for commercial establishments.  She stated that most businesses are already under contract with third-party suppliers, so if businesses were to be included, there would need to be a meeting among Village officials and business representatives in order to determine their level of interest in participating in such a program.

 

Mayor Knudsen thanked Ms. Pasca for her informative and helpful presentation.  She mentioned that other companies are being interviewed and the Village will get in touch with her once those interviews have been completed.

 

4.         PUBLIC COMMENTS

 

NONE.

 

5.         ADJOURNMENT

 

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Deputy Mayor Perron, seconded by Councilwoman Reynolds, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Special Public Meeting was adjourned at 8:27 P.M.

 

 

 

                                                                                                                                                           

                                                                                                Susan Knudsen

                                                                                                                     Mayor

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                                       

                  Heather A. Mailander

         Village Manager/Village Clerk

A SPECIAL PUBLIC MEETING OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY, ON NOVEMBER 30, 2022 AT 6:00 P.M.

 

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

 

Deputy Mayor Perron called the meeting to order at 6:02 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act.  At roll call, the following were present:  Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, and Vagianos. Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk, and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney.  Mayor Knudsen was absent.

 

Deputy Mayor Perron led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag and asked for a moment of silence in recognition of all men and women serving our nation and for all first responders. 

 

2.         COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

There were no comments from the public at this time. 

 

3.         ORDINANCES – INTRODUCTION

 

1. #3932 – BOND ORDINANCE – ACQUISTION OF ENERGY SYSTEMS ($515,000)

 

Deputy Mayor Perron moved the first reading of Ordinance #3932 by title only.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, and Vagianos

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    Mayor Knudsen

ABSTAIN:   None

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3932 by title:

 

BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE ACQUISTION OF WASTE TO

ENERGY AND PHOTOVOLTAIC ENERGY SYSTEMS IN AND BY THE

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

APPROPRIATING $515,000 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $490,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE PART OF THE COST THEREOF

 

Councilman Vagianos moved that Ordinance #3932 be adopted on first reading and that December 14, 2022 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, and Vagianos

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    Mayor Knudsen

ABSTAIN:   None

 

2. #3933 – PBA AND PBA SUPERIORS SALARY ORDINANCE

 

Deputy Mayor Perron moved the first reading of Ordinance #3933 by title only.  Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, and Vagianos

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    Mayor Knudsen

ABSTAIN:   None

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3933 by title:

 

AN ORDINANCE TO FIX SALARIES, WAGES AND OTHER COMPENSATION OF AND FOR POLICE OFFICERS AND POLICE SUPERIOR OFFICERS OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD,

COUNTY OF BERGEN AND STATE OF NEW JERSEY

 

Councilwoman Reynolds moved that Ordinance #3933 be adopted on first reading and that December 14, 2022 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon.  Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, and Vagianos

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    Mayor Knudsen

ABSTAIN:   None

 

4.         RESOLUTION

 

Ms. Mailander stated that the following resolution, numbered 22-381, would be adopted by a consent agenda, and would be read by title only:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.         ADJOURNMENT

 

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Vagianos, seconded by Deputy Mayor Perron, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Special Public Meeting was adjourned at 6:10 P.M.

 

 

 

 

 

                                                                                                                                                           

                                                                                                 Pamela R. Perron

                                                                                                               Deputy Mayor

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                                       

                 Heather A. Mailander

          Village Manager/Village Clerk