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 7, 2022 AT 7:30 P.M.

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

Mayor Knudsen called the Special Public 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.  Deputy Mayor Sedon was absent.  Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; Eileen Young, Deputy Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney.

2.         ORDINANCES   

A.        INTRODUCTION ORDINANCE #3921 - AMEND CHAPTER 265 – VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC – LOADING ZONES AND PARKING METER ZONES IN THE CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT

Councilman Vagianos recused himself from the discussion on Ordinance #3921.  Mayor Knudsen moved that the Deputy Village Clerk read Ordinance #3921 by title on first reading, seconded by Councilwoman Reynolds.

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    Deputy Mayor Sedon

ABSTAIN:   None

RECUSE:     Councilman Vagianos

The Deputy Village Clerk read Ordinance #3921 by title only:

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-29, “PARKING METER ZONES DESIGNATED” AND AT SECTION 265-72, “SCHEDULE XXII ‘LOADING ZONES’”

Councilwoman Perron moved that Ordinance #3921 be adopted on first reading and that September 28, 2022 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    Deputy Mayor Sedon

ABSTAIN:   None

RECUSE:     Councilman Vagianos

B.        PUBLIC HEARING - #3916 – AMEND CHAPTER 265 – VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC – PARKING RESTRICTIONS – MORNINGSIDE ROAD

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Deputy Village Clerk read Ordinance #3916 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened, seconded by Councilwoman Reynolds.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    Deputy Mayor Sedon

ABSTAIN:   None

The Deputy Village Clerk read Ordinance #3916 by title only:

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-66, SCHEDULE XVI, “NO STOPPING OR STANDING”

Mayor Knudsen opened the public hearing on Ordinance #3916.  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:    Deputy Mayor Sedon

ABSTAIN:   None

Councilwoman Perron moved that Ordinance #3916 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:    Deputy Mayor Sedon

ABSTAIN:   None

C.        PUBLIC HEARING - #3917 – AMEND CHAPTER 265 – VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC – PARKING REGULATIONS IN MUNICIPAL COMPLEX PARKING LOT

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Deputy Village Clerk read Ordinance #3917 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened, seconded by Councilwoman Perron.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    Deputy Mayor Sedon

ABSTAIN:   None

The Deputy Village Clerk read Ordinance #3917 by title only:

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-36, “PARKING PROHIBITED CERTAIN HOURS”

Mayor Knudsen opened the public hearing on Ordinance #3917. 

Boyd A. Loving, 342 South Irving Street, said that in the past, when ordinances were introduced at Village Council meetings, whoever was reading the proposed ordinance used to give a brief overview of the purpose and intent of the ordinance.  He asked whether such an overview could be given for Ordinance #3917, for the benefit of those attending the meeting in person and for those who are viewing the meeting at home.

Mayor Knudsen explained that the intent of Ordinance #3917 is to stop drivers from parking their vehicles in the municipal parking complex early in the morning and then leaving their cars there all day.  Parking is allowed for persons conducting business or working at Village Hall, visiting or working at the Ridgewood Public Library, or utilizing the fields, playground or walking path.

Mr. Loving asked whether he would be correct in saying that the main purpose of this ordinance was to prevent high school students from parking in the municipal parking complex.  Mayor Knudsen replied that that was how the discussion started, but there have been other instances where people have parked their cars in the municipal lot all day, mostly people who work in other buildings near Village Hall.  This has caused an issue where there are sometimes not enough parking spaces for people who want to park there for legitimate reasons.

Councilwoman Reynolds remarked that the ordinance makes no mention of high school students. Mr. Loving replied that he was present at the Village Council meeting where there was a discussion about how to prevent high school students from parking in the municipal complex lot. He mentioned that, to his knowledge, there has not been a drastic increase in student enrollments at the high school.  He wondered why all of a sudden high school students have decided to park in the municipal lot.  At the Work Session where this was discussed, Mr. Loving had mentioned that perhaps they are parking there for safety reasons or perhaps there are not enough parking spaces available where the students are allowed to park.  He asked whether an investigation has been undertaken to discover the reasons why students are now parking in the municipal lot.

Ms. Mailander replied that this has been a problem for several years and Village employees are forced to spend valuable time to put notices on the cars which should not be parked there, whether they be students or commuters.  She questioned what type of safety issue could possibly arise either early in the morning, when students are going to the high school, or in the afternoon, when students return back to their cars.  The Ridgewood Police Department requested that an ordinance be adopted so that they would be able to issue summonses for repeat offenders. Summonses will not be issued immediately.  Ms. Mailander mentioned that parking offenses usually occur more frequently later in the school year, when both junior and senior students have their licenses.  She remarked either high school students or other people were occupying that on any given day, between 12 and 15 spaces.  This prevents people who want to conduct business at Village Hall or visit the Library from finding a parking spot. 

Matt Rogers, Village Attorney, added that there may be an added volume of cars in the municipal lot now that the new Ridgewood Water headquarters is completed.  He was not sure, but he indicated that this may become an issue.

Mr. Loving asked whether there is sufficient parking in the Graydon South parking lot during April and May to accommodate the high school students.  Ms. Mailander added that the students are also allowed to park at the regular Graydon lot (Graydon North) during that time.  Mr. Loving stated that students have to cross Linwood Avenue if they park at the Graydon North lot, which is a very busy and dangerous street.  Ms. Mailander acknowledged that Mr. Loving was correct, but she added that a flashing pedestrian sign is located at the lot which students can use to cross Linwood Avenue.

Mayor Knudsen suggested that she could raise these issues (safety concerns and adequate parking) at a joint meeting with the Board of Education which she and Councilman Vagianos will be attending on Friday morning.  She mentioned that perhaps they could come up with ways to facilitate additional parking for students and implement additional safety precautions.  A similar issue was raised several years ago by the Ridgewood Library, where the staff noted that employees of adjacent office buildings were parking in the municipal complex parking lot all day long, preventing Library patrons from finding a parking spot.

Mr. Loving reiterated that he was not against the proposed ordinance, but was just voicing his concerns that there may be a safety issue or there may not be adequate parking available for the high school students.  He suggested that perhaps the Graydon South lot could be restriped or reconfigured to create additional parking spaces. 

Mr. Loving said that he was also concerned about enforcement.  Ms. Mailander replied that warnings would first be given, then summonses would be issued for repeat offenders.  Mr. Loving asked how it would be determined whether or not someone was legitimately parking in the lot.  Ms. Mailander replied that when the same cars are parked in the lot early in the morning into the late afternoon, on multiple days, it is usually either commuters, high school students, or office workers.  These cars are not difficult to identify since staff in the Library and Village Hall usually witness the people who park there all day.

Councilman Vagianos confirmed that both he and Mayor Knudsen would bring up these issues at the Friday meeting.  He described the municipal complex parking lot as a “transient lot,” where cars are usually only parked for an hour or two in any one spot.  When cars are parked there for 6 to 10 hours, then the drivers are usually either commuters, office workers or high school students, which he called “weighted parking.”

There were no further comments from the public, and Mayor Knudsen moved that the public hearing be closed.  Councilwoman Perron seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    Deputy Mayor Sedon

ABSTAIN:   None

Councilwoman Reynolds moved that Ordinance #3917 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law.  Councilwoman Perron seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    Deputy Mayor Sedon

ABSTAIN:   None

D.        PUBLIC HEARING - #3918 – AMEND CHAPTER 265 – VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC – PARKING AT 111 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE – RIDGEWOOD WATER HEADQUARTERS

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Deputy Village Clerk read Ordinance #3918 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened, seconded by Councilwoman Reynolds.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    Deputy Mayor Sedon

ABSTAIN:   None

The Deputy Village Clerk read Ordinance #3918 by title only:

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-42, “RESERVED PARKING SPACES” AND SECTION 265-54, “SCHEDULE 265-54, “SCHEDULE IV:  ONE WAY STREETS” AND SECTION 265-69, “TIME LIMIT PARKING”

Mayor Knudsen opened the public hearing on Ordinance #3918. 

Boyd A. Loving, 342 South Irving Street, said that he has been against these parking spaces from the beginning.  He stated that the building at 111 North Maple Avenue (the location of the new Ridgewood Water headquarters) has existed for years and parking was never permitted in front of that building.  He said that, all of a sudden, parking is allowed there since Ridgewood Water moved into the building. 

Mr. Loving acknowledged the need for one handicapped parking space, but does not see the need for the other two spaces.  He stated that these spaces will create a safety issue since cars parked in those spaces will create a visual obstruction for drivers when pedestrians are using the adjacent crosswalk.  While there is a flashing pedestrian sign there, Mr. Loving stated that if there is a large SUV parked in one of those spots, oncoming traffic will not be able to see the flashing lights or pedestrians.  He stated that if a doctor or other business had moved into that building, parking would not have been allowed in front of the building.  Customers to Ridgewood Water could always have parked in the lot behind the building.  Parking was never permitted in front of the building when the Elks Club or other businesses owned the building.  He has noticed that parking on Maple Avenue, from the border of Glen Rock to the border of Ho-Ho-Kus, is only permitted in front of buildings owned and operated by the Village of Ridgewood.

Mr. Loving stated that, for the record, the parking spaces in front of the new Ridgewood Water headquarters were constructed and operational prior to the Village Council even introducing an ordinance permitting them to be there.  The public hearing is being held this evening to memorialize those spaces, even though they have existed for weeks, against the law.  He said that Ms. Mailander had previously indicated that the spaces were constructed by accident and would be blocked off until the appropriate ordinance was adopted.  However, the spaces were never blocked off and they became operational as soon as they were constructed.  Mr. Loving asserted that any private business or entity would have been denied a request to construct parking spaces in front of 111 North Maple Avenue.

Mayor Knudsen asked whether the Elks Club ever applied to the Village Council to have parking spaces designated in front of their building when they occupied it.  Ms. Mailander replied that, since she has been working for the Village, she was not aware of any such application.  Mayor Knudsen stated that she was also unaware of any private business requesting parking spaces in front of the building and being denied same.  She did acknowledge the mix-up of the ordinance not being adopted before the parking spaces were constructed.

Councilman Vagianos added that Mr. Loving always raises valid safety concerns.  He stated that it was his understanding that the legal distance requirement between parking spaces and crosswalks is 25 feet, and he believes that the required 25 feet exists in this case.  However, he will research this and furnish the information to Mr. Loving.

Mayor Knudsen stated that the required distance should be confirmed.  Christopher Rutishauser, Village Engineer, stated that the requirement is usually a 25-foot setback between crosswalks and parking spaces.  He stated that, at 111 North Maple Avenue, there are ample sight lines and the speed limit is 25 M.P.H.  In addition, there exists the pedestrian-activated flashing warning signal, which alerts motorists of the presence of a pedestrian in the crosswalk.

Mayor Knudsen said that she is satisfied that the requirements for the 25-foot setback have been met.  She suggested that Police Sergeant Chuck visit the site once again to confirm that all legal requirements have been met.

There were no further 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:    Deputy Mayor Sedon

ABSTAIN:   None

Councilwoman Perron moved that Ordinance #3918 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:    Deputy Mayor Sedon

ABSTAIN:   None

Mayor Knudsen added that the site plan for construction of the parking spaces was thoroughly reviewed by the Planning Board before granting approval.

3.         ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilwoman Reynolds, seconded by Councilman Vagianos, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Special Public Meeting was adjourned at 8:24 P.M. and the Public Work Session was reconvened.

                                                                                                Susan Knudsen

                                                                                                                     Mayor

Eileen Young

Deputy Village Clerk

A REGULAR PUBLIC WORK SESSION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY, ON OCTOBER 3, 2022 AT 7:30 P.M.

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

Mayor Knudsen called the meeting to order at 7:34 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; Eileen Young, Deputy Village Clerk; and Matt Rogers, Village Attorney.

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

2.         COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

Cynthia Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, said that she was speaking this evening regarding the Gold Star Families Monument, which is to be erected in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square.  She said that she holds veterans in the highest regard.  Her father fought in World War II and parachuted behind enemy lines.  Her youngest uncle served as a submariner, and her oldest uncle and godfather were declared Missing in Action (MIA) on D-Day +4 (US invasion of Normandy, France, plus four days following invasion).

Ms. Halaby emailed the Village Council last week reminding them of the renovations which the Conservancy for Ridgewood Public Lands has made to Memorial Park at Van Neste Square over the past three years.  The conservancy worked very closely with the Ridgewood Parks and Recreation Department and, as a result, they gained a few feet of grass which added to the usable acreage of the park.  When placing the lighting bollards, great care was taken to not block any area that would be used by the public.  Ms. Halaby stated that she is concerned that the proposed monument and platform base will be too large, with a footprint of approximately 12 feet by 14 feet. 

Ms. Halaby recommended that the veterans look into placing the monument elsewhere, perhaps on the east side of the existing memorial, and arrive at a much simpler design than what is proposed.  She feels that placing the project on the existing pillar would be a perfect and honorable location for the Gold Star Families to be recognized and memorialized.  The proposed memorial would then be close to the names of the fallen soldiers.  Ms. Halaby mentioned that there are large risers on which bronze plaques may be placed, with the top levels being perfect for placing symbolic items, such as the tri-folded flag.

Ms. Halaby also gave a brief history of Memorial Park at Van Neste Square.  The War Memorial was designed by Henry Bacon, who was the architect of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC.  The project was completed in 1924, and the area was then named Memorial Park at Van Neste Square, in honor of the War Memorial.  Ms. Halaby noted that when the monument was installed in the park, it was placed on the side of the park and not in the center.  She feels that this was done so that the park could be preserved for the use and enjoyment of the community.  Ms. Halaby urged the Village Council to give careful consideration as to where the Gold Star Families Memorial will be placed, as well as the design of the memorial, since their decision will affect the park forever in perpetuity.

Rurik Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, stated that he visited West Germany in 1989, a month before the fall of the Berlin Wall.  He visited a town in West Germany, near the border between East and West Germany, and climbed a tower where he could view East Germany.  The border was 300 yards wide and contained “every impediment to movement you can think of.”  He stated that the only thing, which the East Germans had, which the Schedler property berm does not have, is a line of barbed wire.  He said that he was being facetious, but wanted to point out the “idiocy” of the berm, which has been constructed.  He asked how many tax dollars the berm cost, and he also wondered how long the trees, which are planted on the berm, would last.  Mr. Halaby also questioned the efficacy of the mulch in stopping weeds from growing.  Although it looks nice now, Mr. Halaby predicted that it would look as “messy” as it has looked over the past couple of years.

Mr. Halaby wondered what the plans are for the Schedler property.  He said that the plans seem to change with the weather.  He stated that the fence is a safety hazard for children, despite the chicken wire, which has been placed on one side of the split-rail fence.  He accused the Village Councilmembers of using the Schedler property as a “gimmick” for re-election purposes.  He urged the Village Manager to stop spending money on the Schedler property until the election is over.

Boyd A. Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that he was pleased to see a discussion regarding Smart Controllers on the agenda this evening.  He indicated that he sent an email last week expressing his concern that residents who do not use Smart Controllers are governed by an ordinance, approved by the Village Council, while those who are using Smart Controllers are exempt from such ordinance and are free to use as much water as they want, whenever they want.  He views this as disparate treatment.  Those without Smart Controllers are limited to watering on certain days, between certain hours, and those with Smart Controllers are “governed” by Ridgewood Water.  He is hopeful that a solution can be arrived at which is fair to all concerned.  Mr. Loving does not believe that the use of Smart Controllers promotes water conservation.  He asked any Village Councilmember who has such a Smart Controller at their home to disclose that fact before the discussion on the Smart Controllers begins, to ensure transparency.

There were no further comments from the public.

Mayor Knudsen mentioned that the American Legion Post 53 is looking into reducing the footprint of the Gold Star Families Memorial.  She reminded everyone that the existing War Memorial is not the only significant memorial in the park.  There is a memorial for those residents of Ridgewood who perished on 9/11, as well as a Thomas McGuire plaque.

Regarding the Schedler property, Mayor Knudsen stated that a conceptual plan for that property was announced some time ago, and this plan is significantly different from the engineering plan, which was subsequently developed.  She explained that a split-rail fence was used rather than a wrought iron fence, because the Zabriskie-Schedler House and the Schedler property fall under the jurisdiction of the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO).  It was the recommendation of SHPO that a split-rail fence be installed, which Mayor Knudsen felt was incredibly safe. 

Mayor Knudsen recalled reading a Facebook post alleging that the Schedler property has suffered “gross mismanagement, with over $7 million spent and nothing to show for it in seven years.” Mayor Knudsen said that the person who created that post, and others, have no understanding of the budget process and should stop spreading misinformation or knowingly spreading disinformation.  She stated that “allocations” are not money spent, but rather are funds set aside in preparation for a particular project.  She explained some of the reasons why the Schedler property development has been delayed, such as the Covid pandemic and unauthorized plans originally submitted to SHPO.

Councilman Vagianos said that several Village Councilmembers have gone to Memorial Park at Van Neste Square to look at the proposed site for the installation of the Gold Star Families Memorial.  He said that they need some more time to reflect upon the proposed site and design of the memorial.  He noted that the site delineated on the schematic is exactly where the Christmas tree is, so there will probably be some small modification of the location for the memorial.  Councilman Vagianos indicated that the matter will be placed on the agenda for discussion at the October 26, 2022 meeting. 

Regarding the Schedler property, Councilman Vagianos remarked that the development of that property began before he was elected to the Village Council.  One of the factors he views as a problem is the historic designation, which has created tremendous delay.  However, he stated that the Covid pandemic definitely stalled the development further.  He said that the Village Councilmembers will stay on top of things and try to move the project forward as much as possible.

Deputy Mayor Perron indicated that she would like input from the Parks Department and from the Ridgewood Arts Council, if possible, regarding the Gold Star Families Memorial.  She would also like advice from a licensed landscape architect, since siting is extremely important.  Mayor Knudsen agreed.

Mayor Knudsen added that the historic listing resulted from an application by a member of the Historic Preservation Commission for a Certificate of Eligibility for both the house and the property, after they were purchased in either 2008 or 2009.  Mayor Knudsen was not sitting on the Village Council at that time and was not a member of the Historic Preservation Commission. The Zabriskie-Schedler house received a Certificate of Eligibility almost immediately.  The historic designation of the property was contingent upon a Phase I archaeological study, which was authorized by the Village Council in 2017. 

Councilman Vagianos reiterated that the historic designation of the house and property was a tremendous burden. Mayor Knudsen added that, prior to the property and house being designated as historic, she had contacted SHPO to ensure that an historic designation would not prevent the Village from constructing an athletic field on the property.

3.         MANAGER’S REPORT

Ms. Mailander indicated that “Vote by Mail” ballots are being mailed to all residents who automatically receive them or anyone who has requested them.  The final day to register to vote in the November General Election is October 18, 2022.  The Village Clerk’s Office will handle voter registration from 8:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M.  Individuals may also register to vote in the lobby of the Ridgewood Public Library from 4:30 P.M. to 9:00 P.M.  If anyone has moved within Ridgewood, they should re-register with their new address, since the new address may be within a different election district. 

Ms. Mailander announced that all Village offices will be closed on October 10, 2022 in observance of Columbus 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.

Ms. Mailander remarked that the berm on the Schedler property has been completed.  The fencing and mesh are in the process of being installed, and the trees are being planted.  Irrigation is being connected.  The next items to be completed will probably be construction of a driveway into the Schedler property and some parking areas.

The Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring Ridgewood “Sidewalk Sale Days” on October 6, 7 and 8, 2022, with special sales and bargains for all.  If it rains, the sales will move inside the stores.  The Moms’ Club event scheduled during the Sidewalk Sale Days has been canceled until the spring of 2023.

Oktoberfest in Ridgewood’s West Village will be held on October 8 and 9, 2022 starting at 12:00 P.M. in the west side train station parking lot.  Ms. Mailander urged everyone to attend and enjoy hayrides from noon to 5:00 P.M., along with food, pumpkin painting, a scarecrow making contest, a tent of vendors, toss games, sidewalk chalking, and ice cream, with a full weekend of music during the day and into the night.

The Ridgewood Police Benevolent Association (PBA) Food Truck Festival and Kids’ Corner will be held on October 9, 2022 between 11:00 A.M. and 6:00 P.M. to raise funds for pediatric cancer.  There will be a bouncy house and games for children, food trucks, live music and a beer garden.  There is an entry fee, with additional fees for the beer garden and Kids’ Corner.  Parking will be available in the Graydon Pool parking lot.

The Village of Ridgewood’s Annual Flu Clinic will be held on October 6, 2022 from 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. at the Community Center on the ground floor of Village Hall.  Interested individuals may call 201-291-6090 to schedule an appointment.  For further information, residents may also call the Ridgewood Health Department.

On October 16, 2022, the Bergen County Utilities Authority (BCUA) will hold a household hazardous waste collection event at Bergen County Community College located on Paramus Road, in Paramus, New Jersey, from 9:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.  This event will be held rain or shine, and no commercial vehicles will be permitted.  Proof of Bergen County residency will be required.  This event closes promptly at 3:00 P.M.

Upcoming Village Council meetings are broadcast live from the Village Hall Courtroom, on the Village website, and on FIOS Channel 34.  The next Village Council Work Sessions will be held on October 26 and November 2, 2022 at 7:30 P.M.  The next Public Meetings are scheduled for October 12 and November 9, 2022 at 8:00 P.M.

4.         COUNCIL REPORTS

Councilman Vagianos indicated that he had nothing to report, since he reported on everything a few days ago at the last Village Council meeting.  Deputy Mayor Perron and Councilwoman Reynolds also indicated that they had nothing new to report.

Mayor Knudsen announced that on Saturday, October 1, 2022, she attended the 100^th anniversary celebration of the Upper Ridgewood Community Church.  The church was formed in the early 1900s and formally incorporated on January 26, 1920, with nine trustees and 46 charter members.  The celebration was originally scheduled for May 2020, but it was delayed due to the Covid pandemic.  Mayor Knudsen stated that the theme of the celebration was “Songs of Heaven and Earth.”  The celebration was wonderful and the music was beautiful.  She left the celebration with two beautiful Christmas tree ornaments memorializing the 100^th anniversary of the church, which will be added to the Village Christmas tree.  She thanked everyone who organized this event and for everything the church does for the community.

ACCESS weekend will take place this weekend.  Mayor Knudsen stated that interested individuals may visit RidgewoodLibrary.org/AccessRidgewood for further details and programming.  She urged everyone to attend this fun and exciting event, which will focus on “Embracing Our Abilities, Disabilities, Special Gifts and Special Needs.”

Mayor Knudsen announced that she received an email from a resident today asking about the Public Hearing for the Master Plan, which is being carried to October 4, 2022, the date on which Yom Kippur begins.  Mayor Knudsen said that there is a site plan review application hearing on that date for the Bethlehem Lutheran Church. Since all Planning Board members will be available for the meeting on October 4, 2022, it was decided to hold the Public Hearing on the Master Plan on that date and then carry it to the Planning Board meeting on October 18, 2022. The Master Plan Committee had the opportunity to confirm that their work has been completed, incorporating some suggestions and cleaning up typographical errors.

5.         DISCUSSION

            A.        RIDGEWOOD WATER

1.         AWARD PROFESSIONAL SERVICES – PUBLIC POLICY CONSULTANT

Ms. Mailander said that this item pertains to the awarding of a professional services contract for a Public Policy Consultant for Ridgewood Water.  In July 2018, the Village Council approved the first annual contract with Morford Drulis to provide public policy consulting for Ridgewood Water, and the last four years have been successfully completed.  It is recommended that a new, one-year contract with Morford Drulis, of Trenton, New Jersey, be approved in an amount not to exceed $27,000.00, the same amount as last year. This will be funded through the Water Utility Operating Budget.

Rich Calbi, Director of Ridgewood Water, stated that, when it comes time for the renewal of the contract with Morford Drulis, a list of accomplishments during the year is presented by Michael Drulis, along with a list of goals for the upcoming year.  Mr. Calbi stated that this is the fifth year in which Ridgewood Water has hired a Public Policy Consultant.  He remarked that this prior year was one of the most successful years they have experienced, laying out groundwork for future projects, obtaining grant monies to complete projects, and incorporating successful changes in the Intended Use Plan (IUP) with the State of New Jersey (which allows the utility to borrow more money). An IUP is filed annually to account for how the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund will be used during a fiscal year. There are set amounts of funds that can be awarded to finance clean water (sewer/wastewater) projects every year. They have affected legislation in Trenton, with policymakers creating legislation more in line with advisements given to them by Ridgewood Water over the past four years, such as paying closer attention to how regulations take effect and how much time is needed to implement strategies to adhere to new regulations.

Michael Drulis, the principal partner of Morford Drulis Associates, stated that his firm is a public policy firm specializing in good government interest, particularly clean drinking water.  The firm has worked closely with the Mayor and Village Council, the Village Manager, and Mr. Calbi and his staff to advance good public policy in the state, working with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), the New Jersey Environmental Protection Agency (NJEPA), the New Jersey Governor’s Office, Capitol Hill and the White House.  Mr. Drulis mentioned the stimulus payments received by Ridgewood Water for various qualifying projects.  He mentioned that there are many water utilities “lining up” to be in the same position as Ridgewood Water currently is.

Mr. Drulis stated that the real success has been the constant communication between the Village government and State and Federal governmental agencies.  He stated that Ridgewood has a “credibility,” which is extremely valuable when discussing environmental and other issues.  He remarked that it is not a “hand out” mentality, but rather a view towards enacting effective legislation to benefit local utilities.  His firm and Ridgewood Water worked closely with Congressman Gottheimer this year on the Community Funding projects, which has never been done before. Mr. Drulis said that the I-Bank is once again “flushed with cash,” which was not the case in 2018.  Morford Drulis has been working with the I-Bank to ensure that the Village obtains the “cheapest” money possible.  Mr. Drulis said that the Village has a great rating and is able to take advantage of grants that will greatly reduce interest on borrowed funds.  This benefits all taxpayers in Ridgewood.

Regarding the IUP, which Mr. Calbi mentioned earlier, Mr. Drulis spoke about the PFAS mitigation “build out” and how a large portion of this project is being done in an abbreviated fashion.  They are working with the NJDEP to raise the caps, so that the full amount of that money could qualify for no-interest loans and the highest “blended” rate possible, which efforts Mr. Drulis expects to be successful.

Mr. Drulis stated that his firm works closely with the Legislature to help them craft bills that offer meaningful, cost-effective and realistic solutions, rather than just quick solutions, and solutions with reasonable timeframes, such as with three-year rollouts rather than one-year rollouts. They will continue to educate new legislators as they get elected and new policy leaders as they are appointed.  Mr. Drulis stated that clean water is a “hot topic” lately.  His firm will provide the Village with monthly updates, discuss upcoming trends, and seek new initiatives that will keep Ridgewood “ahead” of the regulatory hurdles set forth by the NJDEP.

Councilman Vagianos stated that Morford Drulis has demonstrated some very substantial and tangible results to the Village, which he appreciates.  Councilwoman Reynolds also thanked Mr. Drulis.  Mayor Knudsen remarked that the coalition meetings are very informative and feels that hiring Morford Drulis was one of the best decision the Village Council made in 2018.

2.         AWARD SOLE SOURCE CONTRACT – FURNISH CORROSION INHIBITOR

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the awarding of a Sole Source Contract to furnish corrosion inhibitor Carus 4500 to Ridgewood Water.  Ridgewood Water tested the blending of Passaic Valley Water Commission (PVWC) and Ridgewood Water via a controlled Pipe Loop Corrosion Study in 2019.  The PVWC utilized a corrosion control product called Carus 4500 and positive results regarding corrosion were found while blending Carus with the existing Poly/Ortho product utilized by Ridgewood Water. 

The NJDEP was provided with a copy of this Corrosion Control Study and subsequently issued a permit to Ridgewood Water that required the addition of Carus 4500 at the PVWC interconnection.  The PVWC interconnection was activated into the Ridgewood Water system on August 10, 2022.  Based on this information, the continuous use of Carus 4500 is strongly recommended as a sole source for corrosion control at the PVWC interconnection.  It is recommended that Carus 4500 be purchased from Carus, LLC, of Peru, Illinois, in an amount not to exceed $26,000.00.  Funding is in the Water Utility Operating Account.  Deputy Mayor Perron asked that the name of that specific account be delineated in the proposed resolution.

                        3.         DISCUSSION ON REGULATIONS FOR SMART CONTROLLERS

Mr. Calbi indicated that the issue of Smart Controllers was last discussed at a Village Council meeting on August 3, 2022.  At that time, he was asked to review his records and tally data regarding the use of Smart Controllers (i.e., whether the Smart Controllers are effective in promoting water conservation).  Mr. Calbi said that there were a total of 345 Smart Controller permit holders through August 31, 2022.  Of those permits, 326 were issued through 2021.  There were 19 new permits issued in 2022, but those were not included in the results since there was no prior water usage data with which to compare them.  Similarly, the permits issued in 2021 were not included since there was no data to ascertain whether or not the Smart Controllers saved water.  Therefore, he examined 246 accounts.

Mr. Calbi said that the 246 accounts were comprised of customers who got a Smart Controller permit between 2017 and 2020.  Comparisons were made between the time customers got their Smart Controllers through 2021 to determine their average usage on an annual basis (either saving water or using more water).  Of those 246 accounts, they were only able to examine 148 of them, since some homes had changed ownership during that time period and Smart Controller permits do not automatically transfer to new owners.  However, further analysis could be done.  On the basis of the 148 accounts from 2017 through 2020, Mr. Calbi found that 73 accounts (approximately 50% of them) reduced their usage by upwards of 36%.  The other 50%, or 75 accounts, increased their usage, some very significantly (upwards of 70%).  This is similar to the 50/50 split, which he estimated in August 2022.  Mr. Calbi indicated that the same percentages are seen with regular water restrictions.  There are usually 50% of people who comply with the regular two-day-per-week restrictions, and 50% of people in all four communities served by Ridgewood Water who probably do not.  Mr. Calbi said that there are customers who take advantage of having Smart Controllers.

Mr. Calbi said that there are definitely changes, which need to be made to this system, although he would not abolish the system completely, since there are some people who are abiding by the restrictions and are saving water.  The water restriction guidelines are not contained within the ordinance for Smart Controllers, but rather it is up to Ridgewood Water to set these guidelines regarding Smart Controller permits. Mr. Calbi stated that the guidelines developed by Ridgewood Water were based on a State model ordinance, including the times designated for the use of Smart Controllers.

Moving forward, Mr. Calbi would like to vary from the guidelines as they now stand, so that the Smart Controller guidelines are more consistent with the guidelines for those without Smart Controllers, with the same time restrictions.  He said that he would not restrict days for Smart Controller usage, since there would then be no difference between the restrictions for those with Smart Controllers and those without Smart Controllers.  Mr. Calbi said that another suggestion, together with restricting the times for Smart Controllers, would be to offer some incentives (i.e., a rebate or credit on a water bill if a customer installs a Smart Controller system).  In addition, when people recertify every year, his staff could review a customer’s usage data to see if they are actually saving water and watering “smart.”  If they are not, they will not be recertified.

Deputy Mayor Perron questioned whether making the time restrictions for watering “consistent” would allow watering between 3:00 A.M. and 7:00 A.M. every day of the week or just two days a week for everyone.  Mr. Calbi replied that those with Smart Controllers would be allowed to water every day of the week, although the Smart Controller is supposed to decide on which days it should water, between 3:00 A.M. and 7:00 A.M., instead of the current hours between midnight and 10:00 A.M.  When questioned by Deputy Mayor Perron, Mr. Calbi said that restricting the days for Smart Controller usage would make the restrictions the same for everyone and, therefore, there would be no incentive for homeowners to install a Smart Controller.

Councilman Vagianos asked how many customers Ridgewood Water has, and Mr. Calbi replied that there are 21,000 accounts with approximately 350 permit holders, and half of those 350 permit holders (175) are noncompliant.  Councilman Vagianos asked if 50% of the 21,000 accounts are customers who are noncompliant with water restrictions, and Mr. Calbi replied in the affirmative. 

Councilman Vagianos stated that he feels Mr. Calbi’s recommendations should be implemented.  Since the number of permit holders is small, Councilman Vagianos felt that more focus should be placed on the 10,000 customers without Smart Controllers who are noncompliant.  He likes the idea of denying recertification if it is found that a customer is not following the water restrictions.  Mr. Calbi mentioned that sometimes people have leaks of which they are unaware, and he would not want to penalize customers, if that were the case, for excess water usage.  However, he believes that this would be a good start to make people more aware of how they are watering.

Councilwoman Reynolds asked how many customers actually recertify, since it doesn’t seem as though people recertify every year, based upon the numbers presented by Mr. Calbi.  Mr. Calbi replied that he is not sure of how many customers recertify each year, but he said that the numbers do increase each year.  He said that he can find out the answer to Councilwoman Reynolds’ question and get back to her.  There was a discussion about how many permits are issued each year, how many were new permits, and how many were recertifications.  In 2022, there were 345 permits.  Councilwoman Reynolds asked how recertifications are accomplished (in person or online), and Mr. Calbi replied that customers are sent a letter and a form which needs to be filled out, attesting that they will continue to follow the regulations.  Once the form is received, it is put on file in the Ridgewood Water office.

Councilwoman Reynolds asked how Smart Controllers are set up and when they are set up.  Mr. Calbi replied that a Smart Controller waters based on climate and weather data.  Smart Controllers have to meet certain criteria and be U.S. Water Sense approved.  The Smart Controller contains a device that hooks up to Wi-Fi or to a rain sensor on one’s property and it uses that data to control when it should water.  Customers have to prove that they have a Water Sense-certified controller and that it is programmed in automatic mode, utilizing weather data and/or a rain sensor on their property. 

Councilwoman Reynolds asked Mr. Calbi how customers prove this, and he replied that customers send a photograph of the unit, showing the type of unit, that it is set to the automatic mode, and that the rain sensor is on.  Councilwoman Reynolds stated that a customer can change the device once the proof is sent to Ridgewood Water.  Mr. Calbi replied that apparently 50% of customers are doing so.  Some Smart Controllers can also be hooked up to a smart phone, thereby enabling a customer to override the automatic mode and set the controls to manual.

Councilwoman Reynolds stated that she agrees on changing the hours during which Smart Controllers may be used (3:00 A.M. to 7:00 A.M.).  She says that perhaps the 10,000 customers are noncompliant because they see their neighbors watering their lawns at all hours, either intentionally or unintentionally, so they feel they can do the same.  Mr. Calbi said that a postcard is sent to all customers each year containing the water restrictions.  The rules are published in the Village calendar as well, and residents receive more literature when the placard is mailed to them.  He said that a lot of outreach is done by Ridgewood Water to make sure customers are aware of the regulations.

Councilwoman Reynolds asked Mr. Calbi where people place the placards, which are given to them when they receive a permit.  Mr. Calbi replied that the placard is about the size of a license plate (blue background with white letters) and customers are advised to put the placard in a front window or on a stake in the ground, since it is waterproof, in a location that is visible on the property.  Councilwoman Reynolds asked whether his staff, who go out at night to check for violations, have a list of customers with Smart Controllers.  Mr. Calbi said they don’t necessarily have such a list.  However, they keep a list of people who have been found to be in violation of the water regulations and then compare that list to the Ridgewood Water database.  If one of the customers has a Smart Controller, they will not receive a warning or a ticket.

Mayor Knudsen asked what the breakdown is of Smart Controller owners by municipality (areas served by Ridgewood Water).  Mr. Calbi said that Ridgewood residents have the majority of Smart Controllers, and Glen Rock, Wyckoff and Midland Park probably have no more than 20 each.  Mayor Knudsen asked Mr. Calbi if he has a breakdown of which customers increased their water usage, and Mr. Calbi replied that he did not but could get that information.

Mayor Knudsen replied that the water restrictions were implemented in an effort to conserve water.  She feels that customers who significantly increase their water usage should receive a letter from Ridgewood Water stating that their watering system/account will be monitored and, if the overuse continues, they should be put on notice that their Smart Controller permit will be terminated immediately, after which time they would have to follow the rules just like everyone else. 

Mayor Knudsen stated that she agrees with public comments previously made by Mr. Loving that the regulations seem “skewed” in favor of those with Smart Controllers.  She feels that use of Smart Controllers should be limited from 3:00 A.M. to 7:00 A.M., and that a warning should be given to customers who are exceeding their water usage, with termination of the permit should the violations continue.

Councilman Vagianos agreed with Mayor Knudson, but stated that he is concerned about the amount of time spent on the relatively few Smart Controller customers, as opposed to the 10,000 or so customers who are noncompliant with the water restrictions.  He asked Mr. Calbi how much time it would take to monitor the 350 permit holders, relative to the amount of time that could be spent monitoring the other 20,000 customers.  He wondered whether the Village was being “penny wise and pound foolish” by only monitoring the accounts with Smart Controllers.  He felt that more water could be conserved by concentrating on the accounts without Smart Controllers. Mr. Calbi replied that there is a commitment required by the other three municipalities, but that it is a “time drain” one way or the other.  Councilman Vagianos said that just concentrating on the Ridgewood accounts, which “dwarf” the accounts in other municipalities, would result in more water conservation.  He acknowledged, however, that there is not an unlimited resource of manpower at Ridgewood Water.  Mr. Calbi recommended reviewing accounts annually when it comes time for recertification of the Smart Controller permits.  Quarterly water readings could be reviewed, but this would require more staff time.

Mayor Knudsen asked how the recertification process would work with the new time restrictions.  Mr. Calbi indicated that Ridgewood Water would set up new guidelines and outline new requirements for recertification for the Smart Controller permits and watering “smart.”  They would advise customers that their annual usage will be compared to the prior year and, if they have increased their consumption of water over a set threshold, the permit will not be renewed.  Councilman Vagianos and Mayor Knudsen both agreed, but stated that efforts should be focused on the bigger picture (10,000 noncompliant customers).  Mayor Knudsen felt that violators should be advised that their Smart Controller accounts will be subject to a quarterly review of water usage, in addition to the annual review, when it comes time for recertification.

Deputy Mayor Perron stated that she has a Smart Controller and would like to see Mr. Calbi’s recommendations implemented as soon as possible.  In this way, all Ridgewood residents with Smart Controllers, at least, will be aware that the hours within which they may water will be from 3:00 A.M. to 7:00 A.M.

Matt Rogers, Village Attorney, stated that the key to the whole issue is enforcement.  The wording will probably need to be changed in the Smart Controller permit application, putting the applicant on notice of the changes, which are being made by Ridgewood Water.  With such a small number of Smart Controller users, he wondered whether it would be worth the trouble to monitor those accounts to ensure compliance.  He said the problem was getting Glen Rock, Midland Park and Wyckoff officials to enforce the water restrictions.  Mr. Rogers noted that even though a Smart Controller account may not receive recertification, that does not mean that the Smart Controller will be turned off or that the customer will all of a sudden become compliant with the water restrictions.  Mr. Calbi said that those customers would be reverted back to watering only two days per week.

There was further discussion regarding the issuance of warnings and summonses for Smart Controller users.  Mayor Knudsen reiterated that she felt there should be a notice on the permit application stating that Smart Controller accounts may be subject to a random review of water usage to ensure that the Village is meeting its goals and objectives of water conservation.  Councilman Vagianos stated that he would be in favor of this as well, as long as it did not create manpower issues.  Councilwoman Reynolds agreed with Mayor Knudsen.

Mr. Calbi asked if the applicant would have the right to appeal such a decision by Ridgewood Water.  Mr. Rogers replied that the right to appeal a decision to revoke a Smart Controller permit does not necessarily need to be offered by Ridgewood Water.  He added that the wording on the application would have to be carefully composed to avoid any legal ramifications.

Mr. Calbi asked whether the Village Councilmembers were in favor of a credit on a customer’s bill if they bought and installed a Smart Controller on their property.  Mayor Knudsen said that she had a problem with this option, because there are many water conservationists who preserve water without Smart Controllers.  She feels that it would be fundamentally unfair to offer a credit on a customer’s bill if they purchase a Smart Controller, since there are many people who follow the rules and conserve water.  Mr. Calbi indicated that he will work closely with Mr. Rogers to draft an amendment to the water ordinance and will present the draft to the Village Council as soon as possible.

            B.        PARKING

                        1.         PARKING PERMITS

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the rates for 2023 parking permits for residents and non-residents.  She indicated that Resident Premium and Non-Resident Premium permits cost $1,325.00 in 2022, and Resident Non-Premium and Non-Resident Non-Premium permits cost $1,000.00 in 2022.  It is proposed that the fee of $1,325.00 for Resident Premium permits be increased by 4% to $1,375.00, and the fee of $1,325.00 for Non-Resident Premium permits be increased by 9% to $1,445.00.  In addition, it is proposed that the fee of $1,000.00 for a Resident Non-Premium parking permit be increased by 4% to $1,040.00, and that the fee of $1,000.00 for a Non-Resident Non-Premium parking permit by increased by 9% to $1,090.00.

Mayor Knudsen remarked that she felt that prices should be decreased rather than increased, considering today’s economic environment.  She mentioned that people are really struggling to put food on their table and buy diapers for their babies.  Councilwoman Reynolds agreed, stating that the Hudson Parking Garage is empty and people should be using it.  She feels that Ridgewood should be more competitive with other towns, such as Ho-Ho-Kus and Glen Rock.  She mentioned that many people are parking at the Ho-Ho-Kus and Glen Rock train stations because it is less expensive than Ridgewood, although she stated that she was not sure of what the parking fees are in those towns.  Ms. Mailander agreed that parking is less in Ho-Ho-Kus and Glen Rock, but indicated that Ho-Ho-Kus does not have very much parking and Glen Rock charges more for non-residents.  Councilwoman Reynolds asked how much these two towns charge for parking, and Ms. Mailander indicated that she would find out.

Councilwoman Reynolds indicated that there were 425 permits issued in 2016 and only 87 in 2022.  Councilman Vagianos stated that the pre-2021 numbers have absolutely no bearing on 2021 and 2022.  He stated that price was the “smallest factor.”  Councilwoman Reynolds disagreed, stating that a lot of people are now returning to work, on a limited basis, since the Covid pandemic, and they will not be willing to pay these fees for parking five days a week when they are only working two to three days per week. 

Councilman Vagianos asked if the Village could offer a permit to residents for parking only a portion of the week, which he stated is becoming the “new normal.”  Councilwoman Reynolds stated that that would be impossible to enforce.  Ms. Mailander remarked that the Village does offer a daily permit.  Deputy Mayor Perron stated that the parking permit fees are not very well explained on the Village website.  The ordinance indicates that individuals may sign up online, but Deputy Mayor Perron noted that she could not figure out how to do that.  Ms. Mailander stated that the option for same is under “Click and Park” (name given by the vendor), but perhaps it could be named something else or an explanation could be posted near the link so that it is more user friendly.

Councilman Vagianos asked Ms. Mailander to explain about the daily permits offered by the Village.  Ms. Mailander explained that an individual must be a Ridgewood resident and must obtain a free Ridgewood resident sticker, which is affixed to a car window.  The resident must then log onto the Village website, go to “Parking,” and then click on “Click and Park.”  The resident must choose the day or days on which they want the one-day permit ($20.00 a day) and then pay online.  The resident then needs to print out the permit, which is placed on a car’s dashboard.  Councilman Vagianos stated that people who are working a partial week do not want to log onto the Village website every day to obtain a daily parking permit.  They would rather just perform the online process once so that they have a permit to use. 

Ms. Mailander indicated that these individuals can also park at the train station and pay by the Park Mobile app or by the kiosk, as long as they have the free sticker identifying them as a Ridgewood resident. Councilman Vagianos suggested that the parking permit options should be adapted to the “current times” so that residents may purchase a permit for one, two or three days a week, according to their needs, which is effective all year long.  Ms. Mailander stated that enforcement would be difficult with such permits, but that she could certainly look into it.  Councilman Vagianos said that he was confident that the Village had enough professionals who could figure out how to adapt the five-day-a-week permit model to a two- or three-day-a-week model.

Mayor Knudsen noted the decrease in parking permits issued between 2017 and 2021, as prices increased over that time.  She wondered if parking permit fees could be “rolled back” for a year or for just a few months, stating that more permits would be sold and the Village would gain more revenue.  Councilman Vagianos stated that he was not opposed to decreasing the prices, but he felt that most people did not need a five-day-a-week parking permit.  Mayor Knudsen stated that issuing permits for a specified number of days per week would be an enforcement “nightmare.” 

Councilwoman Reynolds stated that when a resident obtains a parking permit, the permit is good for any day of the week, including weekends.  She suggested perhaps issuing a ticket booklet, with residents using a ticket each time they need to park.  Ms. Mailander wondered how the used ticket would be collected so that a resident could not reuse it.

Deputy Mayor Perron stated that she would like to explore both avenues.  She felt that Park Mobile may have encountered this same situation before.  Ms. Mailander explained that the permits are issued by the Village, and not through Park Mobile.  Councilman Vagianos suggested that this matter be carried to the next Village Council meeting.  Ms. Mailander agreed, but stated that the ordinance would need to be introduced and adopted by November 2022, so that the 2023 permits may be sold in December 2022.  Ms. Mailander stated that enforcement of two- or three-day permits would be difficult.  There was further discussion comparing the prices a resident could pay for parking, such as through Park Mobile, a kiosk, or via a permit.  There was also a discussion about the ability of non-residents to obtain a parking permit for a set period of time.

Mayor Knudsen summarized by stating that they would need to find out if it would be feasible to issue parking permits for two or three days a week, and should perform an analysis to see if more permits were sold if prices were rolled back to 2017 rates during a trial period.  Ms. Mailander asked if the Village Councilmembers wanted to offer non-residents the same price for premium and non-premium parking. Mayor Knudsen replied in the affirmative, anticipating that the number of permits sold would increase and, therefore, the Village would generate more revenue.  Ms. Mailander asked if non-resident passes should be sold in the third week of January, with residents given priority to purchase them in early January.  Mayor Knudsen felt that both residents and non-residents should be given an equal opportunity to purchase the parking permits at the same time in 2023.  Everyone was in agreement.

C.        BUDGET

1.         AWARD CONTRACT – SODIUM BISULFATE SOLUTION AND SODIUM HYPOCHLORITE SOLUTION - WPCF

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract for sodium bisulfate solution and sodium hypochlorite solution for the Water Pollution Control Facility (WPCF) for use in treating the Village’s wastewater.  There were five holders of the plans and specifications, and the Village received three responding bids.  One of the bids was incomplete.  The apparent low bidder, Miracle Chemical Company of Farmingdale, New Jersey, submitted a complete bid package.  Miracle Chemical successfully supplied chemicals to the Village in the past.  This year’s bid has the option to extend it for an additional year, with the consent of both parties.

Ms. Mailander indicated that the cost for chemicals has gone up considerably from last year.  Costs for the sodium bisulfate and sodium hypochlorite have almost doubled.  It is recommended that this contract be awarded to Miracle Chemical Company in an amount not to exceed $156,239.00.  Funding is contained in the Water Pollution Control Facility’s Operating Budget.

2.         AWARD CONTRACT – ADDITIONAL AWARD – TREE PLANTING THROUGHOUT THE VILLAGE

Councilman Vagianos recused himself from this discussion.  Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract for additional tree planting throughout the Village.  The Village Council previously awarded a contract to Downes Tree Service of Hawthorne, New Jersey, in the amount of $84,530.00 for tree planting throughout the Village.  The Parks Department has money in their budget to cover the cost of planting 32 additional trees.  It is recommended that Change Order No. 1 be awarded to the original low bidder, Downes Tree Service, in the additional amount of $16,845.00.  Funding is contained in the 2022 Capital Budget.  It is hoped that the additional trees can be planted this fall.

Deputy Mayor Perron indicated that she was in favor of this contract, provided that there is sufficient staff and an arborist to oversee the planting, to ensure that the contractor is correctly performing these services.  She feels that the contractor should be supervised.  Councilwoman Reynolds asked if the planting of trees is being supervised at the present time, and Deputy Mayor Perron replied that she believes that every tree planting is supervised.  Ms. Mailander remarked that she was not sure if someone is personally supervising the hundreds of trees that are being planted.  Mayor Knudsen asked if the trees are “guaranteed” to live.  Deputy Mayor Perron said that usually the trees are guaranteed for one year, but she wondered what would happen if a tree died after that one-year period.

Councilwoman Reynolds remarked that a certain procedure has to be followed when planting a new tree, especially in the Central Business District, but she wondered if that same procedure is followed elsewhere in the Village.  Deputy Mayor Perron stated that it was a big deal to plant a tree, since all of the utilities, such as water and gas, have to be checked and marked out before a tree can be planted.  Ms. Mailander remarked that Downes Tree Service has already planted many trees this year in the Village.  Deputy Mayor Perron asked when these additional trees would be planted or whether it would be continuous.  Ms. Mailander replied that it would be continuous.  However, she stated that the resolution would become effective at the October 12, 2022 Village Council meeting.

3.         AWARD CONTRACT – DISPOSAL OF RECYCLABLE MATERIALS

Ms. Mailander explained that this item deals with the disposal of recyclable materials.  On July 17, 2019, the Village awarded a three-year contract, with two one-year options, for the disposal of recyclable materials.  This resolution would award the first one-year renewal option to Atlantic Coast Fibers, LLC, of Passaic, New Jersey.  Since this is a recycling contract, it does not have to be bid, according to State statute. 

Deputy Mayor Perron asked if Atlantic Coast Fibers was subcontracting out since the fire.  Mr. Rogers replied that the Village has an agreement with them through two facilities in Newark, New Jersey, that are accepting both comingled and fibers.  Atlantic Coast Fibers expects that their plant in Passaic will be breaking ground sometime in 2023 or 2024.  Deputy Mayor Perron asked what the two facilities in Newark were, and Mr. Rogers replied that they are Waste Management, which is accepting comingled, and YES (Your Environmental Solutions) Recycling, which is accepting fibers.

4.         AMEND COOPERATIVE CONTRACT – ADDITIONAL FUNDING FOR FUEL

Ms. Mailander stated that this item deals with awarding a contract through the New Jersey State Cooperative Purchasing Program. Additional funding is needed to purchase fuel for the Village’s Fleet Services Division for the remainder of the year.  It is recommended that this contract be awarded to Racheles/Micheles of Clifton, New Jersey, in an additional amount not to exceed $235,000.00.  Funding is contained in the Operating Budget.  This funding is needed due to the rising cost of fuels for Village equipment and vehicles.  Fuel use has remained consistent, but prices have risen.

5.         AWARD COOPERATIVE CONTRACT – INSTALLATION OF VEHICLE TRACKING SOFTWARE

Ms. Mailander indicated that this items deals with the awarding of a contract for the installation of vehicle tracking software.  Since 2018, the Village has been tracking over 100 Village vehicles utilizing online software from Vehicle Tracking Solutions (VTS).   The software and vehicle hardware are integrated into a live web platform, and Village staff have integrated the software into daily operations.  Examples include fast tracking responses to customer emergent requests by locating the closest vehicle to the address of the customer; verifying accident and incident data by reviewing vehicle track, speed and stop times; monitoring snowplowing operations and answering customer complaints on the number of times a plow passed and vehicle speed; and verifying and trending sanitation and recycling trips to the transfer stations. 

It is recommended that this contract be renewed with Vehicle Tracking Solutions, under SHI International Corp. Purchasing Cooperative of Somerset, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $30,512.40, from July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2023, under the Bergen County Cooperative Purchasing Program.  Funding is contained in the various departmental Operating Budgets.  The per vehicle cost for the VTS hardware and software is $21.19 per month, and it is projected that a total of 120 vehicles will be covered by the system during the next contract year.  Ms. Mailander indicated that this vehicle tracking system has proven to be very beneficial to the Village; for instance, if a resident reports a plow speeding on their street, the speed of the plow can be checked via this system.

Mayor Knudsen asked for confirmation that the costs will be apportioned for each department, noting that Ridgewood Water currently has 31 vehicles. Mr. Calbi replied that each department’s Operating Budget gets charged according to the number of vehicles it has.

6.         DECLARE SURPLUS – VEHICLE AND EQUIPMENT

Ms. Mailander explained that this item deals with declaring surplus vehicles and equipment that the Village has used.  The vehicles and equipment are no longer mechanically viable, and many have extensive corrosion and expensive repair needs.  The vehicles and equipment are taking up valuable space and decaying further, thereby reducing their value.  It is recommended that these surplus vehicles and equipment be sold on govdeals.com, an online auction platform, so that the Village may receive some revenue. Ms. Mailander remarked that the Village gained approximately $36,000.00 in revenue from the last auction of surplus vehicles of a similar nature.

C.        POLICY

1.         SIDEWALK REPLACEMENT PROGRAM AND TREE REMOVALS

2.         UPDATE ON AMENDMENT TO TREE ORDINANCE

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to a sidewalk replacement program and tree removals.  According to a memo composed by Yendi Anderson of the Village Engineering Department, there were 241 sidewalk permits obtained between 2017 and 2022.  There were an average of 40 tree-related sidewalk permits issued between 2017 and 2022.  The memo also set forth the number of tree removals, round-outs and root grinding operations between 2017 and 2022, as well as repeat sidewalk permits obtained and costs of slabs based upon reports from three local contractors.  The number of ramp-overs constructed during those years was missing from this memo.  However, Ms. Mailander spoke with Declan Madden, Village Arborist, who reported that approximately four to five ramp-outs or ramp-overs were constructed each year.  He indicated that 50% to 75% of those residents needing ramp-overs do not want to pay the extra cost associated with such construction.  There have been only two ramp-overs constructed in 2022, with one on South Irving Street and one on a different street.  One resident on South Irving Street is researching the rubberized pavement (impervious).

Deputy Mayor Perron asked if a tree would have to be removed entirely if a resident did not wish to pay the extra cost of constructing a ramp-over or round-out.  Ms. Mailander indicated that when a tree’s roots are ground because they are uplifting sidewalk slabs, the tree can sometimes become unstable and topple over, or die.  Councilwoman Reynolds thought that tree grinding was not allowed anymore in the Village. 

Ms. Mailander replied that grinding of tree roots is still permitted on a case-by-case basis, based upon the opinion of the Village Arborist.  Ms. Mailander stated that the tree ordinance, as it is now written, does not indicate that a resident may automatically raze a healthy tree.  However, it does state that the Village Arborist must approve the removal of a tree.  There was further discussion regarding situations in which a homeowner may or may not remove a tree.

Councilman Vagianos remarked that the cost to the Village of removing a large tree might exceed the cost of constructing a ramp-over.  There was a discussion as to whether the Village, if at all, would assist a homeowner with the cost of constructing a ramp-over or round-out. 

Mayor Knudsen stated that the Village is spending a “fortune” to restore the tree canopy, and it did not make sense to pay for removing a tree when the tree could be saved with special sidewalk construction.  Regarding the 88 tree removals performed during the 2017 to 2022 time period, Mayor Knudsen wondered how many were removed because a homeowner did not want to pay extra for a ramp-over or round-out.  Ms. Mailander reiterated that the Village Arborist reported that four to five ramp-outs or ramp-overs were constructed each year between 2017 and 2022.  He indicated that 50% to 75% of those residents needing ramp-overs did not want to pay the extra cost associated with such construction.

There was further discussion about the number of trees removed versus tree-related sidewalk work performed.  Ms. Mailander clarified that some of the trees whose roots were uplifting sidewalks were either dead or diseased, and therefore had to be removed.  Mayor Knudsen again asked how many healthy trees were cut down because someone didn’t want to bear the cost of additional sidewalk construction.  Ms. Mailander reiterated that it is 50% of the four to five residents who needed ramp-overs but did not want to pay for the sidewalk construction.

Councilman Vagianos indicated that Ms. Anderson’s report reflected that there was an average of 15 tree removals per year (between 2017 and 2022), an average of 8 round-outs per year, and an average of 19 root grindings per year.  He thought that the numbers they needed to consider were the average total of tree-related work performed per year (42).  Councilman Vagianos suggested that a homeowner be responsible to pay for a certain amount of sidewalk construction, with the Village “picking up the tab” for the remaining cost.  This would preserve Village trees and save the Village money in terms of having to remove a tree.  Mayor Knudsen was in agreement.  Deputy Mayor Perron said that she would limit the Village reimbursement to the ramp-overs, rather than paying for extra sidewalk slabs. 

Councilwoman Reynolds said that if a homeowner has to pay for repairing a sidewalk due to tree roots uplifting slabs (grinding roots and then constructing a regular straight sidewalk or a round-out); the cost for same should be the homeowner’s responsibility.  However, if a ramp-over (four or more slabs) were required, then the Village could assist the homeowner with those costs.  Councilman Vagianos suggested establishing a “flat fee” for simplicity. Ms. Mailander pointed out that costs vary too much for that to be practical.  Mayor Knudsen stated that she was agreeable to a flat fee.  There was further discussion as to whether or not the Village would assist a homeowner in paying for a round-out, and whether or not a round-out actually costs more to construct than just a regular sidewalk.

Councilwoman Reynolds asked whether or not the fixed reimbursement would be per slab, since some people may need only three slabs, while some may require six slabs to be replaced. There was a discussion about placing an undue burden on homeowners to repair sidewalks in order to preserve a Village tree.

Deputy Mayor Perron stated that, during a conversation with Declan Madden at the last meeting of the Shade Tree Commission, Mr. Madden was not as concerned about the round-outs, since residents are not complaining about the round-outs.  They are complaining about the ramp-overs, the costs for which are burdensome.  Deputy Mayor Perron stated, psychologically, if a resident felt that the Village is “meeting them halfway” and paying for half of the sidewalk construction costs, they would view this as being reasonable.  She doesn’t feel that they would view a flat fee as being reasonable. 

Mayor Knudsen and Councilwoman Reynolds both agreed with Deputy Mayor Perron’s suggestion that the Village and homeowner split the cost, rather than setting a flat fee.  An additional benefit, pointed out by Deputy Mayor Perron, would be that the Village would not have to look at whether or not the Village miscalculated the astronomical rise of concrete prices. It was agreed that the Village would pay half the cost of a ramp-over only, due to the number of slabs which would need to be constructed in order to be ADA compliant.

Councilwoman Reynolds questioned whether the Village would pay for half of the entire sidewalk project or only for the slabs needed to construct the ramp-over.  There was further discussion about how many slabs would need to be removed in order to construct a ramp-over, which could vary depending upon the pitch of the sidewalk, and could cost several thousand dollars. 

Mayor Knudsen suggested that the Village Arborist develop a “formula” for an equitable solution, which would preserve healthy Village trees, while at the same time lessening the financial burden to a homeowner.  Everyone was in agreement, but Councilwoman Reynolds felt that the Village portion should represent a percentage of the total cost, rather than simply a set 50%, since costs of construction and goods could rise exponentially.  Councilman Vagianos pointed out that the Village portion could be updated and adjusted as costs escalate.  If a job costs $2,500.00 and the Village were to be responsible for half of the cost, it would amount to $1,250.00, which he stated was a lot of money.  He also pointed out that the Village pays $600.00 to plant a tree with a 4” diameter.  It was finally agreed that Mr. Madden would be asked to develop some sort of formula to figure out how much a homeowner would be reimbursed by the Village, in order to preserve a Village tree.

3.         AMEND CHAPTER 3 – ADMINISTRATION OF GOVERNMENT ARTICLE II – VILLAGE COUNCIL

Ms. Mailander indicated that since the Municipal Election, for Village Councilmembers, now takes place in November of even-numbered years, Chapter 3, Article II, Village Council, of the Code of the Village of Ridgewood must be amended to reflect the new date for the Reorganization Meeting and the election of Mayor, Deputy Mayor, and President Pro Tempore.  Ms. Mailander explained that the Reorganization Meeting will take place during the first week of January in odd-numbered years, following the election of Village Councilmembers.  The Village Council shall hold a Reorganization Meeting for the election of Mayor, Deputy Mayor, and President Pro Tempore. 

Subsection 3.6A reflects that the Village Council shall assemble at Village Hall for a Reorganization Meeting and elect one of the Village Councilmembers as Mayor.  The Mayor shall be nominated by a Village Councilmember by a motion and second, followed by a roll call vote of all Village Councilmembers.  More than one Village Councilmember may be nominated for Mayor, via the same process. Once all nominations for Mayor have been made, seconded and voted on, the nominations for Mayor shall be closed.  All members of the Village Council shall then vote on all of those nominated for Mayor.  The Mayor shall then be chosen from those nominated, by majority roll call vote of the Village Council.  If the Village Councilmembers are unable to elect a Mayor with a majority vote, then the Village Councilmember who received the greatest number of votes in the last Municipal Election for Village Councilmember shall be Mayor.  Should such person decline to accept the offer, then the person receiving the next greatest number of votes shall become the Mayor.

Subsection 3.6B states that at the same time as a Mayor is elected, the Village Council shall elect one of the Village Councilmembers as Deputy Mayor.  Ms. Mailander then explained the process by which a President Pro Tempore shall be elected, along with the procedure by which vacancies in the Village Council may be filled.  She also explained the changes in Subsection 3.6E (“Council” was changed to “Village Council”) and “resolutions which have been adopted by the Village Council” was added to Subsection 3.6E(5).  Subsection 3.6E(6) states that the Mayor shall “have such other functions, powers and duties as the Charter or the Village Council, subject to the Charter or State statute may from time to time prescribe.”

Councilman Vagianos questioned the wording in Subsection 3.6A which stated, “If the Village Councilmembers shall be unable to elect a Mayor with a majority vote, then the Village Councilmember, who in the last Municipal Election for Village Councilmember (held at the November General Election in even numbered years) received the greatest number of votes shall be the Mayor.”  He asked about the Councilmembers who were elected in the prior election.  Ms. Mailander said that that wording (Councilmembers receiving the most votes in a prior election) could be used for electing a Mayor or Deputy Mayor.  Councilman Vagianos remarked that this would be a highly unlikely scenario, but felt that the word “last” should be omitted.  Deputy Mayor Perron suggested using the term “in the last two elections.”  Councilman Vagianos said that it should read “in the last three elections” or “in the elections in which all Councilmembers were most recently elected.” 

Mayor Knudsen felt that no changes should be made in the wording, since the present wording has been used “forever” and it is perfectly fine the way it is.  She said that the main objective in amending the ordinance is to reflect the fact that Municipal Elections are now held in November and the Reorganization Meeting is to be held in January.  Councilwoman Reynolds agreed with Mayor Knudsen.  Councilman Vagianos remarked that the wording does not need to remain the same, just because it has been the same “for a thousand years.”  He said that there is clearly a flaw in the wording, because it limits the Councilmembers to only those who received the greatest number of votes in the last Municipal Election. 

Mayor Knudsen reiterated that she was not interested in changing the wording, but Deputy Mayor Perron stated that she had the same question as Councilman Vagianos, stating that it seemed like an unnecessary limitation to look only at the most recent election.  However, she said it was very unlikely to “come into play.” Councilman Vagianos stated that changing the wording would “open the floor” to all members of the Village Council, as opposed to only two members who were elected at the last election.  Since there was no majority opinion, it was decided that the amendment would be left “as is” for the present time and would be discussed after the election in November. 

Councilman Vagianos stated that he is opposed to the amendment as presented and would not vote in favor of it.  Mr. Rogers stated that he was not sure this amendment to the ordinance could be introduced without a majority vote by the Village Council.  There was further discussion as to whether or not the ordinance amendment would be placed on the next Public Work Session agenda or be voted upon by the Councilmembers, since there would not be a majority vote.  Ms. Mailander said that she would like to at least amend the ordinance to reflect the new wording in Section 3-5, which sets forth the date for the Reorganization Meeting.  Mayor Knudsen thought that the entire amendment needed to be introduced as a whole.  Ms. Mailander said that different sections were being amended and, by State statute, the amendment must be done within the first seven days.

                        4.         POLITICAL SIGNS

Ms. Mailander explained that this next item deals with Ordinance No. 3540 (amendment to Chapter 190, Section 122) adopted in 2016, dealing with political signs being displayed and the timetable for their removal (no later than 20 days after the date of the election).  In the case of primary elections, the signs of all candidates who fail to remain as candidates in the ensuing general election shall remove their signs no later than 10 days after the date of the primary election.

Mayor Knudsen recalled when political signs were “shoved into” planters in the Central Business District during the last general election, which destroyed the flowers.  The Village Councilmembers thereafter developed an amendment to the ordinance forbidding any political signs from being placed in tree wells or planters and on telephone poles.  Mayor Knudsen did not feel there should be a time limit for signs and asked Mr. Rogers for his opinion. 

Mr. Rogers stated that there are differing positions constitutionally with regard to forcing the removal of political signs (right to free speech) on private property.  He stated that, in the interest of not confusing voters, signs of candidates who fail to remain as candidates in the ensuing general election should be removed as quickly as possible.  However, there are valid reasons for not desiring political signs to remain in place after an election (aesthetics as well as visual obstruction of drivers).  Mayor Knudsen asked Mr. Rogers what would happen if an individual asserted that his or her constitutional rights were being denied.  Mr. Rogers said that the Village may lose if someone challenged the constitutionality of this provision, depending upon where the signs are placed.

Councilman Vagianos said he was fine with the ordinance as it is presently written, although he stated that he is a huge advocate of free speech.  He stated that he was not in favor of keeping up political signs year round.  If the Village is challenged and loses in court, then the Village would abide by the court order.  Mr. Rogers pointed out that “political signs” only encompass signs for an election and not those in support of a cause or program, such as “No CVS” or “No Cannabis in Ridgewood.” 

Deputy Mayor Perron asked if this ordinance would be subject to “strict scrutiny.”  Mr. Rogers replied that he could not recall the specific constitutional standard that could be applied, but he is aware of a number of cases dealing with time periods within which election signs must be removed.  Deputy Mayor Perron felt that the Village has a valid government interest to not allow signs “ad infinitum,” although she was not sure if the Village had a “compelling” government interest.  She stated that she was fine with leaving the ordinance the way it is presently worded.  Ms. Mailander said that that seemed to be the feeling of the majority of the Village Councilmembers.

6.         REVIEW OF OCTOBER 12, 2022 PUBLIC MEETING AGENDA

Ms. Mailander indicated that the following Proclamations are on the October 12, 2022 Public Meeting Agenda:  National Diabetes Awareness Month and Declare October National Bullying Prevention Month.

There are no ordinances for either introduction or public hearing for Ridgewood Water.

Resolutions for Ridgewood Water include:  Award Contract Under State Contract – Annual Maintenance of Chlorine, pH and Phosphate Analyzers; Award Professional Services Contract – Public Policy Consultant; and Award Sole Source Contract – Furnish Corrosion Inhibitor.

Ordinances for introduction include:  #3922 and #3923 - 2022 Management and Non-Union Salary Ordinances, respectively; and #3924 and #3925 – 2022 Management and Non-Union Salary Ordinances, respectively.  Ordinance #3926 – Amend Chapter 3 – Administration of Government – Village Council will not be heard on October 12, 2022.  There are no public hearings on ordinances scheduled.

Resolutions include:  Award Contract – Disposal of Recyclable Materials; Award Additional Partial Award – 2022 Road Resurfacing and Repairs; Title 59 Approval and Award of Contract – Furnishing and Delivering Sodium Bisulfite and Sodium Hypochlorite Solution – Water Pollution Control Facility; Title 59 Approval and Award of Contract – Furnishing Laboratory Services – Water Pollution Control Facility and Graydon Pool Facility; Award Contract Under Bergen County Contract – Vehicle Tracking System; Award Contract Under State Contract – Gasoline and Diesel Fuel; Authorize Change Order – Tree Planting Throughout the Village of Ridgewood (Councilman Vagianos will recuse himself from this discussion); Award Contract – Sale of Compost from Lakeview Compost Facility; Chapter 159 – Accept United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service – Emergency Watershed Protection Program Grant; Authorize Refund of Property Tax Overpayment; Accept 2021 Audit; Approve 2021 Corrective Action Plan; and Declare Property Surplus – Various Departments.

Ms. Mailander asked the Village Councilmembers if they wanted any items off of the consent agenda.  The resolution regarding Downes Tree Service will be taken off the consent agenda.

7.         PUBLIC COMMENTS

Rurik Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, stated that he would like to see a resolution ceding the entire Schedler property to SHPO.  He said that, if this happened, it occurred under the “watch” of the current Village Council and he wanted to see the resolution memorializing that action.  Mr. Halaby said that he finally received a statement from Mr. Rooney regarding a reconciliation of the money spent at the Schedler property, after asking for same for two years.  He stated that this has turned into a $7 million project, over a course of seven years.  Mr. Halaby asked when he could receive a statement advising where things “stand right now” at the Schedler property, predicting that costs are probably close to $8 million at the current time.  He said that, as a 52-year resident of Ridgewood, he and other Ridgewood taxpayers are entitled to receive a reconciliation of the monies spent to date on the Schedler property.

Mr. Halaby stated that he wanted to speak about conceptual plans versus engineering plans.  He said that taxpayers are entitled to be kept up to date on what is transpiring at the Schedler property and Zabriskie-Schedler house, rather than having the Village Council keep the “peasants” in the dark. There was an exchange between Mayor Knudsen and Mr. Halaby regarding a statement made which blamed Mr. Halaby for the delays of the Schedler project and called him a liar.  It was suggested Mr. Halaby was not “knowing the numbers,” but Mr. Halaby stated that he does understand the numbers.  He feels insulted by Mayor Knudsen and asked for an end to the insults.

David Refkin, 401 Wastena Terrace, stated that he has been a Ridgewood resident since March of 2020.  He serves as Vice Chair of the Green Ridgewood Committee.  He is the former Director of Sustainable Development at Time, Inc., and is Board President of the National Recycling Coalition.  In addition, he has been a consultant for the City of Detroit, where they focused on building a recycling infrastructure for the city.  He has been involved in recycling for many years.

Mr. Refkin feels that Ridgewood does a very “solid” job on recycling, but he mentioned that there are opportunities to employ Best Management Practices to increase revenues.  He said that as the Village considers renewing the contract with Atlantic Coast Fibers, there are a few key questions which should be asked of them.  They should be asked what the revenue forecast is and the range for recyclables, given the changeable nature of commodities.  They should ask if there is a floor or ceiling in the pricing.  Mr. Refkin stated that the commodity markets can “bounce all over the place,” but the Village should inquire how the budget can be protected regarding the revenue forecast for the Village.  Atlantic Coast Fibers should be asked how market changes affect Ridgewood’s revenue and what opportunities exist to increase revenues and improve recycling.

Mr. Refkin said that, since many people are now working from home, online shopping has increased, leaving a lot of corrugated cardboard in the recycling stream.  He thinks that consideration should be given to increasing the number of pickups for recyclables.  Village staff should consider if the recycler works with the Village to expand the recycling of new materials, such as various types of plastics that are currently not recycled.  They should consider how the recycling vendor works with the Village to reduce contamination, such as incentives to improve the quality of recyclables, resulting in increased revenue to both the Village and the recycling vendor.  They should ask if there is consideration to collect glass separately.  Since glass breaks, it becomes a contaminant and can ruin valuable recyclables such as metal cans and plastics.  Mr. Refkin indicated that he would be happy to work with the staff of the Recycling Department to improve the recycling operation in Ridgewood.

Deputy Mayor Perron asked Mr. Refkin if he was suggesting more frequent recycling pickups.  Mr. Refkin replied that Best Practices in many cities would have recyclables picked up as often as trash, and sometimes even more often than trash.  He said that Ridgewood could consider some automated systems, so that manpower would not have to be increased, such as one-person trucks with automatic recycling pickup.  Mr. Refkin indicated that the Village could explore a pilot program employing Best Practices, such as 64-gallon carts used strictly for corrugated cardboard.  He stated that cardboard becomes less valuable once it gets wet, and the carts would protect the cardboard and keep it dry if it rains.  If mixed paper could be segregated from corrugated paper, that would also increase the value of the materials.

Boyd A. Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that he thought Mr. Calbi’s suggestion this evening was wonderful, to motivate residents with Smart Controllers to operate them only between the hours of 3:00 A.M. and 7:00 A.M.  He has observed watering of lawns at 10:00 A.M., on different days of the week, and it is hard to tell if someone is using a Smart Controller system or not.  He has not seen a single placard in his neighborhood, yet he sees lawns being watered at all hours of the day.  He has been told by people that they have a Smart Controller, yet he has not observed a single placard.  Mr. Loving stated that he does not live in a neighborhood where the front window of a house is 100 feet away from the curb.  They are about 30 feet away from the curb, and he has not noticed a single placard.  This makes him question whether or not his neighbors, who say they have Smart Controllers, are actually registered.

Mr. Loving said that the suggestion of allowing watering with Smart Controllers only between the hours of 3:00 A.M. and 7:00 A.M. is a good start, but he stated that these residents will still be allowed to water seven days a week.  Residents without Smart Controllers are not allowed to water on Mondays, Thursdays or Fridays.  He is confused as to why those residents with Smart Controllers should be allowed to water seven days a week.  Mr. Loving said that these residents should also be restricted from watering on those days, just like everyone else.  He stated that the new water restrictions need to be incorporated into the ordinance.  He said that, currently, the ordinance only covers people who are using hose-ended sprinklers and automatic systems, but does not cover people who are using Smart Controllers.

Mr. Loving stated that he was “absolutely shocked” that the Village is willing to face a constitutional challenge in court regarding political signs.  He said that the Village Council is living in a vacuum.  Driving through Glen Rock and Wyckoff, Mr. Loving has observed many “Trump 2020” signs still remaining on people’s lawns.  He couldn’t understand why the ordinance would not be changed to reflect the constitutional right of people to have such signs on their property.  He said a challenge by a resident would cause the Village to incur massive legal fees.  He urged the Village Council to reconsider their decision regarding political signs.

Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that she could not understand why she could have a sign on her lawn for a long time stating that she was, for example, in support of full-day kindergarten, yet she can’t have a political sign on her lawn for as long as she wanted.  She stated that it was her constitutional right to have such a political sign on her property for as long as she chose.  Ms. Loving said that she disagreed with some comments made by Village Councilmembers to let the ordinance stand as is and just wait and see if it is challenged.

There were no further comments from the public.

Councilman Vagianos commented that it does sound like a constitutional issue requiring residents to remove political signs from their property 20 days after an election, but the Village is unaware of what the ramifications would be if that ordinance were challenged.  He stated that the Village has an interest in keeping the landscape clear.  He said that if a court finds that this aspect of the ordinance is unconstitutional, then the Village must abide by the court order.  However, until there is a court ruling on same, Councilman Vagianos does not think the Village should be intimidated by the threat of court action or legal fees.  He stated that he understood the reasoning set forth by Boyd and Anne Loving, but respectfully disagreed with them.

Councilman Vagianos asked Ms. Mailander and Mr. Rogers whether the administration of government amendment was going to be placed on the agenda for a vote at the next Village Council meeting.  Ms. Mailander said that she had not planned on adding that amendment to the agenda. Councilman Vagianos stated that the way the amendment is currently written, of the four Village Councilmembers present this evening, the only Councilmember who would be eligible to become Mayor, Deputy Mayor or President Pro Tempore would be Mayor Knudsen.  He asked Mr. Rogers whether Mayor Knudsen would have a conflict in that regard, because she would be the only sitting Councilmember who would benefit by this provision in the amendment. 

Mr. Rogers replied that he did not believe there would be a conflict, and pointed out that there would not be a majority vote to pass the amendment anyway.  Councilman Vagianos stated, however, that the other three Councilmembers would be ineligible to be Mayor with the wording as it now stands.  Deputy Mayor Perron said that the Village Councilmembers can decide, by majority vote, as to who should become Mayor.  The clause in question (greatest number of votes in the last election) only comes into play if such majority vote cannot be reached.  Councilman Vagianos agreed, but stated that if there is no majority vote to decide who becomes Mayor, the only one who would be eligible to become Mayor would be Mayor Knudsen, since the only votes that would be counted would be those from the “last” election, rather than the last two or three elections, since the Councilmembers were not all elected to the Village Council at the same time.  Mr. Rogers stated that he does not feel there would be a conflict, since administration is one of the areas on which Councilmembers are permitted to vote.

Mayor Knudsen said that she agrees with Anne and Boyd Loving and doesn’t understand why the Village would engage in a constitutional challenge in court regarding political signs.  She could not understand why a sign in favor of a cause or issue would be fine, yet a political sign would not be. 

Mayor Knudsen also stated that it is her intention to clear up any misinformation or disinformation that may exist regarding the Schedler property.  She welcomed Mr. Halaby to file an Open Public Records Act (OPRA) request to obtain the authorization for a Phase I Archeological Study, authorized by the Village Council in 2017 to Connolly Hickey.  She also stated that she contacted Ridgewood Walks immediately after seeing an article published by them, informing them that their information is incorrect.  The representative from Ridgewood Walks chose to ignore Mayor Knudsen and left the article as is.  Mayor Knudsen stated that the Schedler project has not lasted for seven years and that $7 million has not been expended.

Deputy Mayor Perron asked Mr. Rogers to finish his explanation as to why he did not feel there would be a conflict regarding the administration of government amendment.  Mr. Rogers stated that administration is one of the areas on which Village Councilmembers are able to vote, i.e., one can vote for oneself for Mayor.

8.         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 Work Session was adjourned at 10:12 P.M.

                                                                                                Susan Knudsen

                                                                                                                     Mayor

Eileen Young

Deputy Village Clerk

A REGULAR PUBLIC WORK SESSION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY, ON OCTOBER 3, 2022 AT 7:30 P.M.

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

Mayor Knudsen called the meeting to order at 7:34 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; Eileen Young, Deputy Village Clerk; and Matt Rogers, Village Attorney.

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

2.         COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

Cynthia Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, said that she was speaking this evening regarding the Gold Star Families Monument, which is to be erected in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square.  She said that she holds veterans in the highest regard.  Her father fought in World War II and parachuted behind enemy lines.  Her youngest uncle served as a submariner, and her oldest uncle and godfather were declared Missing in Action (MIA) on D-Day +4 (US invasion of Normandy, France, plus four days following invasion).

Ms. Halaby emailed the Village Council last week reminding them of the renovations which the Conservancy for Ridgewood Public Lands has made to Memorial Park at Van Neste Square over the past three years.  The conservancy worked very closely with the Ridgewood Parks and Recreation Department and, as a result, they gained a few feet of grass which added to the usable acreage of the park.  When placing the lighting bollards, great care was taken to not block any area that would be used by the public.  Ms. Halaby stated that she is concerned that the proposed monument and platform base will be too large, with a footprint of approximately 12 feet by 14 feet. 

Ms. Halaby recommended that the veterans look into placing the monument elsewhere, perhaps on the east side of the existing memorial, and arrive at a much simpler design than what is proposed.  She feels that placing the project on the existing pillar would be a perfect and honorable location for the Gold Star Families to be recognized and memorialized.  The proposed memorial would then be close to the names of the fallen soldiers.  Ms. Halaby mentioned that there are large risers on which bronze plaques may be placed, with the top levels being perfect for placing symbolic items, such as the tri-folded flag.

Ms. Halaby also gave a brief history of Memorial Park at Van Neste Square.  The War Memorial was designed by Henry Bacon, who was the architect of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC.  The project was completed in 1924, and the area was then named Memorial Park at Van Neste Square, in honor of the War Memorial.  Ms. Halaby noted that when the monument was installed in the park, it was placed on the side of the park and not in the center.  She feels that this was done so that the park could be preserved for the use and enjoyment of the community.  Ms. Halaby urged the Village Council to give careful consideration as to where the Gold Star Families Memorial will be placed, as well as the design of the memorial, since their decision will affect the park forever in perpetuity.

Rurik Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, stated that he visited West Germany in 1989, a month before the fall of the Berlin Wall.  He visited a town in West Germany, near the border between East and West Germany, and climbed a tower where he could view East Germany.  The border was 300 yards wide and contained “every impediment to movement you can think of.”  He stated that the only thing, which the East Germans had, which the Schedler property berm does not have, is a line of barbed wire.  He said that he was being facetious, but wanted to point out the “idiocy” of the berm, which has been constructed.  He asked how many tax dollars the berm cost, and he also wondered how long the trees, which are planted on the berm, would last.  Mr. Halaby also questioned the efficacy of the mulch in stopping weeds from growing.  Although it looks nice now, Mr. Halaby predicted that it would look as “messy” as it has looked over the past couple of years.

Mr. Halaby wondered what the plans are for the Schedler property.  He said that the plans seem to change with the weather.  He stated that the fence is a safety hazard for children, despite the chicken wire, which has been placed on one side of the split-rail fence.  He accused the Village Councilmembers of using the Schedler property as a “gimmick” for re-election purposes.  He urged the Village Manager to stop spending money on the Schedler property until the election is over.

Boyd A. Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that he was pleased to see a discussion regarding Smart Controllers on the agenda this evening.  He indicated that he sent an email last week expressing his concern that residents who do not use Smart Controllers are governed by an ordinance, approved by the Village Council, while those who are using Smart Controllers are exempt from such ordinance and are free to use as much water as they want, whenever they want.  He views this as disparate treatment.  Those without Smart Controllers are limited to watering on certain days, between certain hours, and those with Smart Controllers are “governed” by Ridgewood Water.  He is hopeful that a solution can be arrived at which is fair to all concerned.  Mr. Loving does not believe that the use of Smart Controllers promotes water conservation.  He asked any Village Councilmember who has such a Smart Controller at their home to disclose that fact before the discussion on the Smart Controllers begins, to ensure transparency.

There were no further comments from the public.

Mayor Knudsen mentioned that the American Legion Post 53 is looking into reducing the footprint of the Gold Star Families Memorial.  She reminded everyone that the existing War Memorial is not the only significant memorial in the park.  There is a memorial for those residents of Ridgewood who perished on 9/11, as well as a Thomas McGuire plaque.

Regarding the Schedler property, Mayor Knudsen stated that a conceptual plan for that property was announced some time ago, and this plan is significantly different from the engineering plan, which was subsequently developed.  She explained that a split-rail fence was used rather than a wrought iron fence, because the Zabriskie-Schedler House and the Schedler property fall under the jurisdiction of the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO).  It was the recommendation of SHPO that a split-rail fence be installed, which Mayor Knudsen felt was incredibly safe. 

Mayor Knudsen recalled reading a Facebook post alleging that the Schedler property has suffered “gross mismanagement, with over $7 million spent and nothing to show for it in seven years.” Mayor Knudsen said that the person who created that post, and others, have no understanding of the budget process and should stop spreading misinformation or knowingly spreading disinformation.  She stated that “allocations” are not money spent, but rather are funds set aside in preparation for a particular project.  She explained some of the reasons why the Schedler property development has been delayed, such as the Covid pandemic and unauthorized plans originally submitted to SHPO.

Councilman Vagianos said that several Village Councilmembers have gone to Memorial Park at Van Neste Square to look at the proposed site for the installation of the Gold Star Families Memorial.  He said that they need some more time to reflect upon the proposed site and design of the memorial.  He noted that the site delineated on the schematic is exactly where the Christmas tree is, so there will probably be some small modification of the location for the memorial.  Councilman Vagianos indicated that the matter will be placed on the agenda for discussion at the October 26, 2022 meeting. 

Regarding the Schedler property, Councilman Vagianos remarked that the development of that property began before he was elected to the Village Council.  One of the factors he views as a problem is the historic designation, which has created tremendous delay.  However, he stated that the Covid pandemic definitely stalled the development further.  He said that the Village Councilmembers will stay on top of things and try to move the project forward as much as possible.

Deputy Mayor Perron indicated that she would like input from the Parks Department and from the Ridgewood Arts Council, if possible, regarding the Gold Star Families Memorial.  She would also like advice from a licensed landscape architect, since siting is extremely important.  Mayor Knudsen agreed.

Mayor Knudsen added that the historic listing resulted from an application by a member of the Historic Preservation Commission for a Certificate of Eligibility for both the house and the property, after they were purchased in either 2008 or 2009.  Mayor Knudsen was not sitting on the Village Council at that time and was not a member of the Historic Preservation Commission. The Zabriskie-Schedler house received a Certificate of Eligibility almost immediately.  The historic designation of the property was contingent upon a Phase I archaeological study, which was authorized by the Village Council in 2017. 

Councilman Vagianos reiterated that the historic designation of the house and property was a tremendous burden. Mayor Knudsen added that, prior to the property and house being designated as historic, she had contacted SHPO to ensure that an historic designation would not prevent the Village from constructing an athletic field on the property.

3.         MANAGER’S REPORT

Ms. Mailander indicated that “Vote by Mail” ballots are being mailed to all residents who automatically receive them or anyone who has requested them.  The final day to register to vote in the November General Election is October 18, 2022.  The Village Clerk’s Office will handle voter registration from 8:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M.  Individuals may also register to vote in the lobby of the Ridgewood Public Library from 4:30 P.M. to 9:00 P.M.  If anyone has moved within Ridgewood, they should re-register with their new address, since the new address may be within a different election district. 

Ms. Mailander announced that all Village offices will be closed on October 10, 2022 in observance of Columbus 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.

Ms. Mailander remarked that the berm on the Schedler property has been completed.  The fencing and mesh are in the process of being installed, and the trees are being planted.  Irrigation is being connected.  The next items to be completed will probably be construction of a driveway into the Schedler property and some parking areas.

The Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring Ridgewood “Sidewalk Sale Days” on October 6, 7 and 8, 2022, with special sales and bargains for all.  If it rains, the sales will move inside the stores.  The Moms’ Club event scheduled during the Sidewalk Sale Days has been canceled until the spring of 2023.

Oktoberfest in Ridgewood’s West Village will be held on October 8 and 9, 2022 starting at 12:00 P.M. in the west side train station parking lot.  Ms. Mailander urged everyone to attend and enjoy hayrides from noon to 5:00 P.M., along with food, pumpkin painting, a scarecrow making contest, a tent of vendors, toss games, sidewalk chalking, and ice cream, with a full weekend of music during the day and into the night.

The Ridgewood Police Benevolent Association (PBA) Food Truck Festival and Kids’ Corner will be held on October 9, 2022 between 11:00 A.M. and 6:00 P.M. to raise funds for pediatric cancer.  There will be a bouncy house and games for children, food trucks, live music and a beer garden.  There is an entry fee, with additional fees for the beer garden and Kids’ Corner.  Parking will be available in the Graydon Pool parking lot.

The Village of Ridgewood’s Annual Flu Clinic will be held on October 6, 2022 from 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. at the Community Center on the ground floor of Village Hall.  Interested individuals may call 201-291-6090 to schedule an appointment.  For further information, residents may also call the Ridgewood Health Department.

On October 16, 2022, the Bergen County Utilities Authority (BCUA) will hold a household hazardous waste collection event at Bergen County Community College located on Paramus Road, in Paramus, New Jersey, from 9:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.  This event will be held rain or shine, and no commercial vehicles will be permitted.  Proof of Bergen County residency will be required.  This event closes promptly at 3:00 P.M.

Upcoming Village Council meetings are broadcast live from the Village Hall Courtroom, on the Village website, and on FIOS Channel 34.  The next Village Council Work Sessions will be held on October 26 and November 2, 2022 at 7:30 P.M.  The next Public Meetings are scheduled for October 12 and November 9, 2022 at 8:00 P.M.

4.         COUNCIL REPORTS

Councilman Vagianos indicated that he had nothing to report, since he reported on everything a few days ago at the last Village Council meeting.  Deputy Mayor Perron and Councilwoman Reynolds also indicated that they had nothing new to report.

Mayor Knudsen announced that on Saturday, October 1, 2022, she attended the 100^th anniversary celebration of the Upper Ridgewood Community Church.  The church was formed in the early 1900s and formally incorporated on January 26, 1920, with nine trustees and 46 charter members.  The celebration was originally scheduled for May 2020, but it was delayed due to the Covid pandemic.  Mayor Knudsen stated that the theme of the celebration was “Songs of Heaven and Earth.”  The celebration was wonderful and the music was beautiful.  She left the celebration with two beautiful Christmas tree ornaments memorializing the 100^th anniversary of the church, which will be added to the Village Christmas tree.  She thanked everyone who organized this event and for everything the church does for the community.

ACCESS weekend will take place this weekend.  Mayor Knudsen stated that interested individuals may visit RidgewoodLibrary.org/AccessRidgewood for further details and programming.  She urged everyone to attend this fun and exciting event, which will focus on “Embracing Our Abilities, Disabilities, Special Gifts and Special Needs.”

Mayor Knudsen announced that she received an email from a resident today asking about the Public Hearing for the Master Plan, which is being carried to October 4, 2022, the date on which Yom Kippur begins.  Mayor Knudsen said that there is a site plan review application hearing on that date for the Bethlehem Lutheran Church. Since all Planning Board members will be available for the meeting on October 4, 2022, it was decided to hold the Public Hearing on the Master Plan on that date and then carry it to the Planning Board meeting on October 18, 2022. The Master Plan Committee had the opportunity to confirm that their work has been completed, incorporating some suggestions and cleaning up typographical errors.

5.         DISCUSSION

            A.        RIDGEWOOD WATER

1.         AWARD PROFESSIONAL SERVICES – PUBLIC POLICY CONSULTANT

Ms. Mailander said that this item pertains to the awarding of a professional services contract for a Public Policy Consultant for Ridgewood Water.  In July 2018, the Village Council approved the first annual contract with Morford Drulis to provide public policy consulting for Ridgewood Water, and the last four years have been successfully completed.  It is recommended that a new, one-year contract with Morford Drulis, of Trenton, New Jersey, be approved in an amount not to exceed $27,000.00, the same amount as last year. This will be funded through the Water Utility Operating Budget.

Rich Calbi, Director of Ridgewood Water, stated that, when it comes time for the renewal of the contract with Morford Drulis, a list of accomplishments during the year is presented by Michael Drulis, along with a list of goals for the upcoming year.  Mr. Calbi stated that this is the fifth year in which Ridgewood Water has hired a Public Policy Consultant.  He remarked that this prior year was one of the most successful years they have experienced, laying out groundwork for future projects, obtaining grant monies to complete projects, and incorporating successful changes in the Intended Use Plan (IUP) with the State of New Jersey (which allows the utility to borrow more money). An IUP is filed annually to account for how the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund will be used during a fiscal year. There are set amounts of funds that can be awarded to finance clean water (sewer/wastewater) projects every year. They have affected legislation in Trenton, with policymakers creating legislation more in line with advisements given to them by Ridgewood Water over the past four years, such as paying closer attention to how regulations take effect and how much time is needed to implement strategies to adhere to new regulations.

Michael Drulis, the principal partner of Morford Drulis Associates, stated that his firm is a public policy firm specializing in good government interest, particularly clean drinking water.  The firm has worked closely with the Mayor and Village Council, the Village Manager, and Mr. Calbi and his staff to advance good public policy in the state, working with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), the New Jersey Environmental Protection Agency (NJEPA), the New Jersey Governor’s Office, Capitol Hill and the White House.  Mr. Drulis mentioned the stimulus payments received by Ridgewood Water for various qualifying projects.  He mentioned that there are many water utilities “lining up” to be in the same position as Ridgewood Water currently is.

Mr. Drulis stated that the real success has been the constant communication between the Village government and State and Federal governmental agencies.  He stated that Ridgewood has a “credibility,” which is extremely valuable when discussing environmental and other issues.  He remarked that it is not a “hand out” mentality, but rather a view towards enacting effective legislation to benefit local utilities.  His firm and Ridgewood Water worked closely with Congressman Gottheimer this year on the Community Funding projects, which has never been done before. Mr. Drulis said that the I-Bank is once again “flushed with cash,” which was not the case in 2018.  Morford Drulis has been working with the I-Bank to ensure that the Village obtains the “cheapest” money possible.  Mr. Drulis said that the Village has a great rating and is able to take advantage of grants that will greatly reduce interest on borrowed funds.  This benefits all taxpayers in Ridgewood.

Regarding the IUP, which Mr. Calbi mentioned earlier, Mr. Drulis spoke about the PFAS mitigation “build out” and how a large portion of this project is being done in an abbreviated fashion.  They are working with the NJDEP to raise the caps, so that the full amount of that money could qualify for no-interest loans and the highest “blended” rate possible, which efforts Mr. Drulis expects to be successful.

Mr. Drulis stated that his firm works closely with the Legislature to help them craft bills that offer meaningful, cost-effective and realistic solutions, rather than just quick solutions, and solutions with reasonable timeframes, such as with three-year rollouts rather than one-year rollouts. They will continue to educate new legislators as they get elected and new policy leaders as they are appointed.  Mr. Drulis stated that clean water is a “hot topic” lately.  His firm will provide the Village with monthly updates, discuss upcoming trends, and seek new initiatives that will keep Ridgewood “ahead” of the regulatory hurdles set forth by the NJDEP.

Councilman Vagianos stated that Morford Drulis has demonstrated some very substantial and tangible results to the Village, which he appreciates.  Councilwoman Reynolds also thanked Mr. Drulis.  Mayor Knudsen remarked that the coalition meetings are very informative and feels that hiring Morford Drulis was one of the best decision the Village Council made in 2018.

2.         AWARD SOLE SOURCE CONTRACT – FURNISH CORROSION INHIBITOR

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the awarding of a Sole Source Contract to furnish corrosion inhibitor Carus 4500 to Ridgewood Water.  Ridgewood Water tested the blending of Passaic Valley Water Commission (PVWC) and Ridgewood Water via a controlled Pipe Loop Corrosion Study in 2019.  The PVWC utilized a corrosion control product called Carus 4500 and positive results regarding corrosion were found while blending Carus with the existing Poly/Ortho product utilized by Ridgewood Water. 

The NJDEP was provided with a copy of this Corrosion Control Study and subsequently issued a permit to Ridgewood Water that required the addition of Carus 4500 at the PVWC interconnection.  The PVWC interconnection was activated into the Ridgewood Water system on August 10, 2022.  Based on this information, the continuous use of Carus 4500 is strongly recommended as a sole source for corrosion control at the PVWC interconnection.  It is recommended that Carus 4500 be purchased from Carus, LLC, of Peru, Illinois, in an amount not to exceed $26,000.00.  Funding is in the Water Utility Operating Account.  Deputy Mayor Perron asked that the name of that specific account be delineated in the proposed resolution.

                        3.         DISCUSSION ON REGULATIONS FOR SMART CONTROLLERS

Mr. Calbi indicated that the issue of Smart Controllers was last discussed at a Village Council meeting on August 3, 2022.  At that time, he was asked to review his records and tally data regarding the use of Smart Controllers (i.e., whether the Smart Controllers are effective in promoting water conservation).  Mr. Calbi said that there were a total of 345 Smart Controller permit holders through August 31, 2022.  Of those permits, 326 were issued through 2021.  There were 19 new permits issued in 2022, but those were not included in the results since there was no prior water usage data with which to compare them.  Similarly, the permits issued in 2021 were not included since there was no data to ascertain whether or not the Smart Controllers saved water.  Therefore, he examined 246 accounts.

Mr. Calbi said that the 246 accounts were comprised of customers who got a Smart Controller permit between 2017 and 2020.  Comparisons were made between the time customers got their Smart Controllers through 2021 to determine their average usage on an annual basis (either saving water or using more water).  Of those 246 accounts, they were only able to examine 148 of them, since some homes had changed ownership during that time period and Smart Controller permits do not automatically transfer to new owners.  However, further analysis could be done.  On the basis of the 148 accounts from 2017 through 2020, Mr. Calbi found that 73 accounts (approximately 50% of them) reduced their usage by upwards of 36%.  The other 50%, or 75 accounts, increased their usage, some very significantly (upwards of 70%).  This is similar to the 50/50 split, which he estimated in August 2022.  Mr. Calbi indicated that the same percentages are seen with regular water restrictions.  There are usually 50% of people who comply with the regular two-day-per-week restrictions, and 50% of people in all four communities served by Ridgewood Water who probably do not.  Mr. Calbi said that there are customers who take advantage of having Smart Controllers.

Mr. Calbi said that there are definitely changes, which need to be made to this system, although he would not abolish the system completely, since there are some people who are abiding by the restrictions and are saving water.  The water restriction guidelines are not contained within the ordinance for Smart Controllers, but rather it is up to Ridgewood Water to set these guidelines regarding Smart Controller permits. Mr. Calbi stated that the guidelines developed by Ridgewood Water were based on a State model ordinance, including the times designated for the use of Smart Controllers.

Moving forward, Mr. Calbi would like to vary from the guidelines as they now stand, so that the Smart Controller guidelines are more consistent with the guidelines for those without Smart Controllers, with the same time restrictions.  He said that he would not restrict days for Smart Controller usage, since there would then be no difference between the restrictions for those with Smart Controllers and those without Smart Controllers.  Mr. Calbi said that another suggestion, together with restricting the times for Smart Controllers, would be to offer some incentives (i.e., a rebate or credit on a water bill if a customer installs a Smart Controller system).  In addition, when people recertify every year, his staff could review a customer’s usage data to see if they are actually saving water and watering “smart.”  If they are not, they will not be recertified.

Deputy Mayor Perron questioned whether making the time restrictions for watering “consistent” would allow watering between 3:00 A.M. and 7:00 A.M. every day of the week or just two days a week for everyone.  Mr. Calbi replied that those with Smart Controllers would be allowed to water every day of the week, although the Smart Controller is supposed to decide on which days it should water, between 3:00 A.M. and 7:00 A.M., instead of the current hours between midnight and 10:00 A.M.  When questioned by Deputy Mayor Perron, Mr. Calbi said that restricting the days for Smart Controller usage would make the restrictions the same for everyone and, therefore, there would be no incentive for homeowners to install a Smart Controller.

Councilman Vagianos asked how many customers Ridgewood Water has, and Mr. Calbi replied that there are 21,000 accounts with approximately 350 permit holders, and half of those 350 permit holders (175) are noncompliant.  Councilman Vagianos asked if 50% of the 21,000 accounts are customers who are noncompliant with water restrictions, and Mr. Calbi replied in the affirmative. 

Councilman Vagianos stated that he feels Mr. Calbi’s recommendations should be implemented.  Since the number of permit holders is small, Councilman Vagianos felt that more focus should be placed on the 10,000 customers without Smart Controllers who are noncompliant.  He likes the idea of denying recertification if it is found that a customer is not following the water restrictions.  Mr. Calbi mentioned that sometimes people have leaks of which they are unaware, and he would not want to penalize customers, if that were the case, for excess water usage.  However, he believes that this would be a good start to make people more aware of how they are watering.

Councilwoman Reynolds asked how many customers actually recertify, since it doesn’t seem as though people recertify every year, based upon the numbers presented by Mr. Calbi.  Mr. Calbi replied that he is not sure of how many customers recertify each year, but he said that the numbers do increase each year.  He said that he can find out the answer to Councilwoman Reynolds’ question and get back to her.  There was a discussion about how many permits are issued each year, how many were new permits, and how many were recertifications.  In 2022, there were 345 permits.  Councilwoman Reynolds asked how recertifications are accomplished (in person or online), and Mr. Calbi replied that customers are sent a letter and a form which needs to be filled out, attesting that they will continue to follow the regulations.  Once the form is received, it is put on file in the Ridgewood Water office.

Councilwoman Reynolds asked how Smart Controllers are set up and when they are set up.  Mr. Calbi replied that a Smart Controller waters based on climate and weather data.  Smart Controllers have to meet certain criteria and be U.S. Water Sense approved.  The Smart Controller contains a device that hooks up to Wi-Fi or to a rain sensor on one’s property and it uses that data to control when it should water.  Customers have to prove that they have a Water Sense-certified controller and that it is programmed in automatic mode, utilizing weather data and/or a rain sensor on their property. 

Councilwoman Reynolds asked Mr. Calbi how customers prove this, and he replied that customers send a photograph of the unit, showing the type of unit, that it is set to the automatic mode, and that the rain sensor is on.  Councilwoman Reynolds stated that a customer can change the device once the proof is sent to Ridgewood Water.  Mr. Calbi replied that apparently 50% of customers are doing so.  Some Smart Controllers can also be hooked up to a smart phone, thereby enabling a customer to override the automatic mode and set the controls to manual.

Councilwoman Reynolds stated that she agrees on changing the hours during which Smart Controllers may be used (3:00 A.M. to 7:00 A.M.).  She says that perhaps the 10,000 customers are noncompliant because they see their neighbors watering their lawns at all hours, either intentionally or unintentionally, so they feel they can do the same.  Mr. Calbi said that a postcard is sent to all customers each year containing the water restrictions.  The rules are published in the Village calendar as well, and residents receive more literature when the placard is mailed to them.  He said that a lot of outreach is done by Ridgewood Water to make sure customers are aware of the regulations.

Councilwoman Reynolds asked Mr. Calbi where people place the placards, which are given to them when they receive a permit.  Mr. Calbi replied that the placard is about the size of a license plate (blue background with white letters) and customers are advised to put the placard in a front window or on a stake in the ground, since it is waterproof, in a location that is visible on the property.  Councilwoman Reynolds asked whether his staff, who go out at night to check for violations, have a list of customers with Smart Controllers.  Mr. Calbi said they don’t necessarily have such a list.  However, they keep a list of people who have been found to be in violation of the water regulations and then compare that list to the Ridgewood Water database.  If one of the customers has a Smart Controller, they will not receive a warning or a ticket.

Mayor Knudsen asked what the breakdown is of Smart Controller owners by municipality (areas served by Ridgewood Water).  Mr. Calbi said that Ridgewood residents have the majority of Smart Controllers, and Glen Rock, Wyckoff and Midland Park probably have no more than 20 each.  Mayor Knudsen asked Mr. Calbi if he has a breakdown of which customers increased their water usage, and Mr. Calbi replied that he did not but could get that information.

Mayor Knudsen replied that the water restrictions were implemented in an effort to conserve water.  She feels that customers who significantly increase their water usage should receive a letter from Ridgewood Water stating that their watering system/account will be monitored and, if the overuse continues, they should be put on notice that their Smart Controller permit will be terminated immediately, after which time they would have to follow the rules just like everyone else. 

Mayor Knudsen stated that she agrees with public comments previously made by Mr. Loving that the regulations seem “skewed” in favor of those with Smart Controllers.  She feels that use of Smart Controllers should be limited from 3:00 A.M. to 7:00 A.M., and that a warning should be given to customers who are exceeding their water usage, with termination of the permit should the violations continue.

Councilman Vagianos agreed with Mayor Knudson, but stated that he is concerned about the amount of time spent on the relatively few Smart Controller customers, as opposed to the 10,000 or so customers who are noncompliant with the water restrictions.  He asked Mr. Calbi how much time it would take to monitor the 350 permit holders, relative to the amount of time that could be spent monitoring the other 20,000 customers.  He wondered whether the Village was being “penny wise and pound foolish” by only monitoring the accounts with Smart Controllers.  He felt that more water could be conserved by concentrating on the accounts without Smart Controllers. Mr. Calbi replied that there is a commitment required by the other three municipalities, but that it is a “time drain” one way or the other.  Councilman Vagianos said that just concentrating on the Ridgewood accounts, which “dwarf” the accounts in other municipalities, would result in more water conservation.  He acknowledged, however, that there is not an unlimited resource of manpower at Ridgewood Water.  Mr. Calbi recommended reviewing accounts annually when it comes time for recertification of the Smart Controller permits.  Quarterly water readings could be reviewed, but this would require more staff time.

Mayor Knudsen asked how the recertification process would work with the new time restrictions.  Mr. Calbi indicated that Ridgewood Water would set up new guidelines and outline new requirements for recertification for the Smart Controller permits and watering “smart.”  They would advise customers that their annual usage will be compared to the prior year and, if they have increased their consumption of water over a set threshold, the permit will not be renewed.  Councilman Vagianos and Mayor Knudsen both agreed, but stated that efforts should be focused on the bigger picture (10,000 noncompliant customers).  Mayor Knudsen felt that violators should be advised that their Smart Controller accounts will be subject to a quarterly review of water usage, in addition to the annual review, when it comes time for recertification.

Deputy Mayor Perron stated that she has a Smart Controller and would like to see Mr. Calbi’s recommendations implemented as soon as possible.  In this way, all Ridgewood residents with Smart Controllers, at least, will be aware that the hours within which they may water will be from 3:00 A.M. to 7:00 A.M.

Matt Rogers, Village Attorney, stated that the key to the whole issue is enforcement.  The wording will probably need to be changed in the Smart Controller permit application, putting the applicant on notice of the changes, which are being made by Ridgewood Water.  With such a small number of Smart Controller users, he wondered whether it would be worth the trouble to monitor those accounts to ensure compliance.  He said the problem was getting Glen Rock, Midland Park and Wyckoff officials to enforce the water restrictions.  Mr. Rogers noted that even though a Smart Controller account may not receive recertification, that does not mean that the Smart Controller will be turned off or that the customer will all of a sudden become compliant with the water restrictions.  Mr. Calbi said that those customers would be reverted back to watering only two days per week.

There was further discussion regarding the issuance of warnings and summonses for Smart Controller users.  Mayor Knudsen reiterated that she felt there should be a notice on the permit application stating that Smart Controller accounts may be subject to a random review of water usage to ensure that the Village is meeting its goals and objectives of water conservation.  Councilman Vagianos stated that he would be in favor of this as well, as long as it did not create manpower issues.  Councilwoman Reynolds agreed with Mayor Knudsen.

Mr. Calbi asked if the applicant would have the right to appeal such a decision by Ridgewood Water.  Mr. Rogers replied that the right to appeal a decision to revoke a Smart Controller permit does not necessarily need to be offered by Ridgewood Water.  He added that the wording on the application would have to be carefully composed to avoid any legal ramifications.

Mr. Calbi asked whether the Village Councilmembers were in favor of a credit on a customer’s bill if they bought and installed a Smart Controller on their property.  Mayor Knudsen said that she had a problem with this option, because there are many water conservationists who preserve water without Smart Controllers.  She feels that it would be fundamentally unfair to offer a credit on a customer’s bill if they purchase a Smart Controller, since there are many people who follow the rules and conserve water.  Mr. Calbi indicated that he will work closely with Mr. Rogers to draft an amendment to the water ordinance and will present the draft to the Village Council as soon as possible.

            B.        PARKING

                        1.         PARKING PERMITS

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the rates for 2023 parking permits for residents and non-residents.  She indicated that Resident Premium and Non-Resident Premium permits cost $1,325.00 in 2022, and Resident Non-Premium and Non-Resident Non-Premium permits cost $1,000.00 in 2022.  It is proposed that the fee of $1,325.00 for Resident Premium permits be increased by 4% to $1,375.00, and the fee of $1,325.00 for Non-Resident Premium permits be increased by 9% to $1,445.00.  In addition, it is proposed that the fee of $1,000.00 for a Resident Non-Premium parking permit be increased by 4% to $1,040.00, and that the fee of $1,000.00 for a Non-Resident Non-Premium parking permit by increased by 9% to $1,090.00.

Mayor Knudsen remarked that she felt that prices should be decreased rather than increased, considering today’s economic environment.  She mentioned that people are really struggling to put food on their table and buy diapers for their babies.  Councilwoman Reynolds agreed, stating that the Hudson Parking Garage is empty and people should be using it.  She feels that Ridgewood should be more competitive with other towns, such as Ho-Ho-Kus and Glen Rock.  She mentioned that many people are parking at the Ho-Ho-Kus and Glen Rock train stations because it is less expensive than Ridgewood, although she stated that she was not sure of what the parking fees are in those towns.  Ms. Mailander agreed that parking is less in Ho-Ho-Kus and Glen Rock, but indicated that Ho-Ho-Kus does not have very much parking and Glen Rock charges more for non-residents.  Councilwoman Reynolds asked how much these two towns charge for parking, and Ms. Mailander indicated that she would find out.

Councilwoman Reynolds indicated that there were 425 permits issued in 2016 and only 87 in 2022.  Councilman Vagianos stated that the pre-2021 numbers have absolutely no bearing on 2021 and 2022.  He stated that price was the “smallest factor.”  Councilwoman Reynolds disagreed, stating that a lot of people are now returning to work, on a limited basis, since the Covid pandemic, and they will not be willing to pay these fees for parking five days a week when they are only working two to three days per week. 

Councilman Vagianos asked if the Village could offer a permit to residents for parking only a portion of the week, which he stated is becoming the “new normal.”  Councilwoman Reynolds stated that that would be impossible to enforce.  Ms. Mailander remarked that the Village does offer a daily permit.  Deputy Mayor Perron stated that the parking permit fees are not very well explained on the Village website.  The ordinance indicates that individuals may sign up online, but Deputy Mayor Perron noted that she could not figure out how to do that.  Ms. Mailander stated that the option for same is under “Click and Park” (name given by the vendor), but perhaps it could be named something else or an explanation could be posted near the link so that it is more user friendly.

Councilman Vagianos asked Ms. Mailander to explain about the daily permits offered by the Village.  Ms. Mailander explained that an individual must be a Ridgewood resident and must obtain a free Ridgewood resident sticker, which is affixed to a car window.  The resident must then log onto the Village website, go to “Parking,” and then click on “Click and Park.”  The resident must choose the day or days on which they want the one-day permit ($20.00 a day) and then pay online.  The resident then needs to print out the permit, which is placed on a car’s dashboard.  Councilman Vagianos stated that people who are working a partial week do not want to log onto the Village website every day to obtain a daily parking permit.  They would rather just perform the online process once so that they have a permit to use. 

Ms. Mailander indicated that these individuals can also park at the train station and pay by the Park Mobile app or by the kiosk, as long as they have the free sticker identifying them as a Ridgewood resident. Councilman Vagianos suggested that the parking permit options should be adapted to the “current times” so that residents may purchase a permit for one, two or three days a week, according to their needs, which is effective all year long.  Ms. Mailander stated that enforcement would be difficult with such permits, but that she could certainly look into it.  Councilman Vagianos said that he was confident that the Village had enough professionals who could figure out how to adapt the five-day-a-week permit model to a two- or three-day-a-week model.

Mayor Knudsen noted the decrease in parking permits issued between 2017 and 2021, as prices increased over that time.  She wondered if parking permit fees could be “rolled back” for a year or for just a few months, stating that more permits would be sold and the Village would gain more revenue.  Councilman Vagianos stated that he was not opposed to decreasing the prices, but he felt that most people did not need a five-day-a-week parking permit.  Mayor Knudsen stated that issuing permits for a specified number of days per week would be an enforcement “nightmare.” 

Councilwoman Reynolds stated that when a resident obtains a parking permit, the permit is good for any day of the week, including weekends.  She suggested perhaps issuing a ticket booklet, with residents using a ticket each time they need to park.  Ms. Mailander wondered how the used ticket would be collected so that a resident could not reuse it.

Deputy Mayor Perron stated that she would like to explore both avenues.  She felt that Park Mobile may have encountered this same situation before.  Ms. Mailander explained that the permits are issued by the Village, and not through Park Mobile.  Councilman Vagianos suggested that this matter be carried to the next Village Council meeting.  Ms. Mailander agreed, but stated that the ordinance would need to be introduced and adopted by November 2022, so that the 2023 permits may be sold in December 2022.  Ms. Mailander stated that enforcement of two- or three-day permits would be difficult.  There was further discussion comparing the prices a resident could pay for parking, such as through Park Mobile, a kiosk, or via a permit.  There was also a discussion about the ability of non-residents to obtain a parking permit for a set period of time.

Mayor Knudsen summarized by stating that they would need to find out if it would be feasible to issue parking permits for two or three days a week, and should perform an analysis to see if more permits were sold if prices were rolled back to 2017 rates during a trial period.  Ms. Mailander asked if the Village Councilmembers wanted to offer non-residents the same price for premium and non-premium parking. Mayor Knudsen replied in the affirmative, anticipating that the number of permits sold would increase and, therefore, the Village would generate more revenue.  Ms. Mailander asked if non-resident passes should be sold in the third week of January, with residents given priority to purchase them in early January.  Mayor Knudsen felt that both residents and non-residents should be given an equal opportunity to purchase the parking permits at the same time in 2023.  Everyone was in agreement.

C.        BUDGET

1.         AWARD CONTRACT – SODIUM BISULFATE SOLUTION AND SODIUM HYPOCHLORITE SOLUTION - WPCF

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract for sodium bisulfate solution and sodium hypochlorite solution for the Water Pollution Control Facility (WPCF) for use in treating the Village’s wastewater.  There were five holders of the plans and specifications, and the Village received three responding bids.  One of the bids was incomplete.  The apparent low bidder, Miracle Chemical Company of Farmingdale, New Jersey, submitted a complete bid package.  Miracle Chemical successfully supplied chemicals to the Village in the past.  This year’s bid has the option to extend it for an additional year, with the consent of both parties.

Ms. Mailander indicated that the cost for chemicals has gone up considerably from last year.  Costs for the sodium bisulfate and sodium hypochlorite have almost doubled.  It is recommended that this contract be awarded to Miracle Chemical Company in an amount not to exceed $156,239.00.  Funding is contained in the Water Pollution Control Facility’s Operating Budget.

2.         AWARD CONTRACT – ADDITIONAL AWARD – TREE PLANTING THROUGHOUT THE VILLAGE

Councilman Vagianos recused himself from this discussion.  Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract for additional tree planting throughout the Village.  The Village Council previously awarded a contract to Downes Tree Service of Hawthorne, New Jersey, in the amount of $84,530.00 for tree planting throughout the Village.  The Parks Department has money in their budget to cover the cost of planting 32 additional trees.  It is recommended that Change Order No. 1 be awarded to the original low bidder, Downes Tree Service, in the additional amount of $16,845.00.  Funding is contained in the 2022 Capital Budget.  It is hoped that the additional trees can be planted this fall.

Deputy Mayor Perron indicated that she was in favor of this contract, provided that there is sufficient staff and an arborist to oversee the planting, to ensure that the contractor is correctly performing these services.  She feels that the contractor should be supervised.  Councilwoman Reynolds asked if the planting of trees is being supervised at the present time, and Deputy Mayor Perron replied that she believes that every tree planting is supervised.  Ms. Mailander remarked that she was not sure if someone is personally supervising the hundreds of trees that are being planted.  Mayor Knudsen asked if the trees are “guaranteed” to live.  Deputy Mayor Perron said that usually the trees are guaranteed for one year, but she wondered what would happen if a tree died after that one-year period.

Councilwoman Reynolds remarked that a certain procedure has to be followed when planting a new tree, especially in the Central Business District, but she wondered if that same procedure is followed elsewhere in the Village.  Deputy Mayor Perron stated that it was a big deal to plant a tree, since all of the utilities, such as water and gas, have to be checked and marked out before a tree can be planted.  Ms. Mailander remarked that Downes Tree Service has already planted many trees this year in the Village.  Deputy Mayor Perron asked when these additional trees would be planted or whether it would be continuous.  Ms. Mailander replied that it would be continuous.  However, she stated that the resolution would become effective at the October 12, 2022 Village Council meeting.

3.         AWARD CONTRACT – DISPOSAL OF RECYCLABLE MATERIALS

Ms. Mailander explained that this item deals with the disposal of recyclable materials.  On July 17, 2019, the Village awarded a three-year contract, with two one-year options, for the disposal of recyclable materials.  This resolution would award the first one-year renewal option to Atlantic Coast Fibers, LLC, of Passaic, New Jersey.  Since this is a recycling contract, it does not have to be bid, according to State statute. 

Deputy Mayor Perron asked if Atlantic Coast Fibers was subcontracting out since the fire.  Mr. Rogers replied that the Village has an agreement with them through two facilities in Newark, New Jersey, that are accepting both comingled and fibers.  Atlantic Coast Fibers expects that their plant in Passaic will be breaking ground sometime in 2023 or 2024.  Deputy Mayor Perron asked what the two facilities in Newark were, and Mr. Rogers replied that they are Waste Management, which is accepting comingled, and YES (Your Environmental Solutions) Recycling, which is accepting fibers.

4.         AMEND COOPERATIVE CONTRACT – ADDITIONAL FUNDING FOR FUEL

Ms. Mailander stated that this item deals with awarding a contract through the New Jersey State Cooperative Purchasing Program. Additional funding is needed to purchase fuel for the Village’s Fleet Services Division for the remainder of the year.  It is recommended that this contract be awarded to Racheles/Micheles of Clifton, New Jersey, in an additional amount not to exceed $235,000.00.  Funding is contained in the Operating Budget.  This funding is needed due to the rising cost of fuels for Village equipment and vehicles.  Fuel use has remained consistent, but prices have risen.

5.         AWARD COOPERATIVE CONTRACT – INSTALLATION OF VEHICLE TRACKING SOFTWARE

Ms. Mailander indicated that this items deals with the awarding of a contract for the installation of vehicle tracking software.  Since 2018, the Village has been tracking over 100 Village vehicles utilizing online software from Vehicle Tracking Solutions (VTS).   The software and vehicle hardware are integrated into a live web platform, and Village staff have integrated the software into daily operations.  Examples include fast tracking responses to customer emergent requests by locating the closest vehicle to the address of the customer; verifying accident and incident data by reviewing vehicle track, speed and stop times; monitoring snowplowing operations and answering customer complaints on the number of times a plow passed and vehicle speed; and verifying and trending sanitation and recycling trips to the transfer stations. 

It is recommended that this contract be renewed with Vehicle Tracking Solutions, under SHI International Corp. Purchasing Cooperative of Somerset, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $30,512.40, from July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2023, under the Bergen County Cooperative Purchasing Program.  Funding is contained in the various departmental Operating Budgets.  The per vehicle cost for the VTS hardware and software is $21.19 per month, and it is projected that a total of 120 vehicles will be covered by the system during the next contract year.  Ms. Mailander indicated that this vehicle tracking system has proven to be very beneficial to the Village; for instance, if a resident reports a plow speeding on their street, the speed of the plow can be checked via this system.

Mayor Knudsen asked for confirmation that the costs will be apportioned for each department, noting that Ridgewood Water currently has 31 vehicles. Mr. Calbi replied that each department’s Operating Budget gets charged according to the number of vehicles it has.

6.         DECLARE SURPLUS – VEHICLE AND EQUIPMENT

Ms. Mailander explained that this item deals with declaring surplus vehicles and equipment that the Village has used.  The vehicles and equipment are no longer mechanically viable, and many have extensive corrosion and expensive repair needs.  The vehicles and equipment are taking up valuable space and decaying further, thereby reducing their value.  It is recommended that these surplus vehicles and equipment be sold on govdeals.com, an online auction platform, so that the Village may receive some revenue. Ms. Mailander remarked that the Village gained approximately $36,000.00 in revenue from the last auction of surplus vehicles of a similar nature.

C.        POLICY

1.         SIDEWALK REPLACEMENT PROGRAM AND TREE REMOVALS

2.         UPDATE ON AMENDMENT TO TREE ORDINANCE

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to a sidewalk replacement program and tree removals.  According to a memo composed by Yendi Anderson of the Village Engineering Department, there were 241 sidewalk permits obtained between 2017 and 2022.  There were an average of 40 tree-related sidewalk permits issued between 2017 and 2022.  The memo also set forth the number of tree removals, round-outs and root grinding operations between 2017 and 2022, as well as repeat sidewalk permits obtained and costs of slabs based upon reports from three local contractors.  The number of ramp-overs constructed during those years was missing from this memo.  However, Ms. Mailander spoke with Declan Madden, Village Arborist, who reported that approximately four to five ramp-outs or ramp-overs were constructed each year.  He indicated that 50% to 75% of those residents needing ramp-overs do not want to pay the extra cost associated with such construction.  There have been only two ramp-overs constructed in 2022, with one on South Irving Street and one on a different street.  One resident on South Irving Street is researching the rubberized pavement (impervious).

Deputy Mayor Perron asked if a tree would have to be removed entirely if a resident did not wish to pay the extra cost of constructing a ramp-over or round-out.  Ms. Mailander indicated that when a tree’s roots are ground because they are uplifting sidewalk slabs, the tree can sometimes become unstable and topple over, or die.  Councilwoman Reynolds thought that tree grinding was not allowed anymore in the Village. 

Ms. Mailander replied that grinding of tree roots is still permitted on a case-by-case basis, based upon the opinion of the Village Arborist.  Ms. Mailander stated that the tree ordinance, as it is now written, does not indicate that a resident may automatically raze a healthy tree.  However, it does state that the Village Arborist must approve the removal of a tree.  There was further discussion regarding situations in which a homeowner may or may not remove a tree.

Councilman Vagianos remarked that the cost to the Village of removing a large tree might exceed the cost of constructing a ramp-over.  There was a discussion as to whether the Village, if at all, would assist a homeowner with the cost of constructing a ramp-over or round-out. 

Mayor Knudsen stated that the Village is spending a “fortune” to restore the tree canopy, and it did not make sense to pay for removing a tree when the tree could be saved with special sidewalk construction.  Regarding the 88 tree removals performed during the 2017 to 2022 time period, Mayor Knudsen wondered how many were removed because a homeowner did not want to pay extra for a ramp-over or round-out.  Ms. Mailander reiterated that the Village Arborist reported that four to five ramp-outs or ramp-overs were constructed each year between 2017 and 2022.  He indicated that 50% to 75% of those residents needing ramp-overs did not want to pay the extra cost associated with such construction.

There was further discussion about the number of trees removed versus tree-related sidewalk work performed.  Ms. Mailander clarified that some of the trees whose roots were uplifting sidewalks were either dead or diseased, and therefore had to be removed.  Mayor Knudsen again asked how many healthy trees were cut down because someone didn’t want to bear the cost of additional sidewalk construction.  Ms. Mailander reiterated that it is 50% of the four to five residents who needed ramp-overs but did not want to pay for the sidewalk construction.

Councilman Vagianos indicated that Ms. Anderson’s report reflected that there was an average of 15 tree removals per year (between 2017 and 2022), an average of 8 round-outs per year, and an average of 19 root grindings per year.  He thought that the numbers they needed to consider were the average total of tree-related work performed per year (42).  Councilman Vagianos suggested that a homeowner be responsible to pay for a certain amount of sidewalk construction, with the Village “picking up the tab” for the remaining cost.  This would preserve Village trees and save the Village money in terms of having to remove a tree.  Mayor Knudsen was in agreement.  Deputy Mayor Perron said that she would limit the Village reimbursement to the ramp-overs, rather than paying for extra sidewalk slabs. 

Councilwoman Reynolds said that if a homeowner has to pay for repairing a sidewalk due to tree roots uplifting slabs (grinding roots and then constructing a regular straight sidewalk or a round-out); the cost for same should be the homeowner’s responsibility.  However, if a ramp-over (four or more slabs) were required, then the Village could assist the homeowner with those costs.  Councilman Vagianos suggested establishing a “flat fee” for simplicity. Ms. Mailander pointed out that costs vary too much for that to be practical.  Mayor Knudsen stated that she was agreeable to a flat fee.  There was further discussion as to whether or not the Village would assist a homeowner in paying for a round-out, and whether or not a round-out actually costs more to construct than just a regular sidewalk.

Councilwoman Reynolds asked whether or not the fixed reimbursement would be per slab, since some people may need only three slabs, while some may require six slabs to be replaced. There was a discussion about placing an undue burden on homeowners to repair sidewalks in order to preserve a Village tree.

Deputy Mayor Perron stated that, during a conversation with Declan Madden at the last meeting of the Shade Tree Commission, Mr. Madden was not as concerned about the round-outs, since residents are not complaining about the round-outs.  They are complaining about the ramp-overs, the costs for which are burdensome.  Deputy Mayor Perron stated, psychologically, if a resident felt that the Village is “meeting them halfway” and paying for half of the sidewalk construction costs, they would view this as being reasonable.  She doesn’t feel that they would view a flat fee as being reasonable. 

Mayor Knudsen and Councilwoman Reynolds both agreed with Deputy Mayor Perron’s suggestion that the Village and homeowner split the cost, rather than setting a flat fee.  An additional benefit, pointed out by Deputy Mayor Perron, would be that the Village would not have to look at whether or not the Village miscalculated the astronomical rise of concrete prices. It was agreed that the Village would pay half the cost of a ramp-over only, due to the number of slabs which would need to be constructed in order to be ADA compliant.

Councilwoman Reynolds questioned whether the Village would pay for half of the entire sidewalk project or only for the slabs needed to construct the ramp-over.  There was further discussion about how many slabs would need to be removed in order to construct a ramp-over, which could vary depending upon the pitch of the sidewalk, and could cost several thousand dollars. 

Mayor Knudsen suggested that the Village Arborist develop a “formula” for an equitable solution, which would preserve healthy Village trees, while at the same time lessening the financial burden to a homeowner.  Everyone was in agreement, but Councilwoman Reynolds felt that the Village portion should represent a percentage of the total cost, rather than simply a set 50%, since costs of construction and goods could rise exponentially.  Councilman Vagianos pointed out that the Village portion could be updated and adjusted as costs escalate.  If a job costs $2,500.00 and the Village were to be responsible for half of the cost, it would amount to $1,250.00, which he stated was a lot of money.  He also pointed out that the Village pays $600.00 to plant a tree with a 4” diameter.  It was finally agreed that Mr. Madden would be asked to develop some sort of formula to figure out how much a homeowner would be reimbursed by the Village, in order to preserve a Village tree.

3.         AMEND CHAPTER 3 – ADMINISTRATION OF GOVERNMENT ARTICLE II – VILLAGE COUNCIL

Ms. Mailander indicated that since the Municipal Election, for Village Councilmembers, now takes place in November of even-numbered years, Chapter 3, Article II, Village Council, of the Code of the Village of Ridgewood must be amended to reflect the new date for the Reorganization Meeting and the election of Mayor, Deputy Mayor, and President Pro Tempore.  Ms. Mailander explained that the Reorganization Meeting will take place during the first week of January in odd-numbered years, following the election of Village Councilmembers.  The Village Council shall hold a Reorganization Meeting for the election of Mayor, Deputy Mayor, and President Pro Tempore. 

Subsection 3.6A reflects that the Village Council shall assemble at Village Hall for a Reorganization Meeting and elect one of the Village Councilmembers as Mayor.  The Mayor shall be nominated by a Village Councilmember by a motion and second, followed by a roll call vote of all Village Councilmembers.  More than one Village Councilmember may be nominated for Mayor, via the same process. Once all nominations for Mayor have been made, seconded and voted on, the nominations for Mayor shall be closed.  All members of the Village Council shall then vote on all of those nominated for Mayor.  The Mayor shall then be chosen from those nominated, by majority roll call vote of the Village Council.  If the Village Councilmembers are unable to elect a Mayor with a majority vote, then the Village Councilmember who received the greatest number of votes in the last Municipal Election for Village Councilmember shall be Mayor.  Should such person decline to accept the offer, then the person receiving the next greatest number of votes shall become the Mayor.

Subsection 3.6B states that at the same time as a Mayor is elected, the Village Council shall elect one of the Village Councilmembers as Deputy Mayor.  Ms. Mailander then explained the process by which a President Pro Tempore shall be elected, along with the procedure by which vacancies in the Village Council may be filled.  She also explained the changes in Subsection 3.6E (“Council” was changed to “Village Council”) and “resolutions which have been adopted by the Village Council” was added to Subsection 3.6E(5).  Subsection 3.6E(6) states that the Mayor shall “have such other functions, powers and duties as the Charter or the Village Council, subject to the Charter or State statute may from time to time prescribe.”

Councilman Vagianos questioned the wording in Subsection 3.6A which stated, “If the Village Councilmembers shall be unable to elect a Mayor with a majority vote, then the Village Councilmember, who in the last Municipal Election for Village Councilmember (held at the November General Election in even numbered years) received the greatest number of votes shall be the Mayor.”  He asked about the Councilmembers who were elected in the prior election.  Ms. Mailander said that that wording (Councilmembers receiving the most votes in a prior election) could be used for electing a Mayor or Deputy Mayor.  Councilman Vagianos remarked that this would be a highly unlikely scenario, but felt that the word “last” should be omitted.  Deputy Mayor Perron suggested using the term “in the last two elections.”  Councilman Vagianos said that it should read “in the last three elections” or “in the elections in which all Councilmembers were most recently elected.” 

Mayor Knudsen felt that no changes should be made in the wording, since the present wording has been used “forever” and it is perfectly fine the way it is.  She said that the main objective in amending the ordinance is to reflect the fact that Municipal Elections are now held in November and the Reorganization Meeting is to be held in January.  Councilwoman Reynolds agreed with Mayor Knudsen.  Councilman Vagianos remarked that the wording does not need to remain the same, just because it has been the same “for a thousand years.”  He said that there is clearly a flaw in the wording, because it limits the Councilmembers to only those who received the greatest number of votes in the last Municipal Election. 

Mayor Knudsen reiterated that she was not interested in changing the wording, but Deputy Mayor Perron stated that she had the same question as Councilman Vagianos, stating that it seemed like an unnecessary limitation to look only at the most recent election.  However, she said it was very unlikely to “come into play.” Councilman Vagianos stated that changing the wording would “open the floor” to all members of the Village Council, as opposed to only two members who were elected at the last election.  Since there was no majority opinion, it was decided that the amendment would be left “as is” for the present time and would be discussed after the election in November. 

Councilman Vagianos stated that he is opposed to the amendment as presented and would not vote in favor of it.  Mr. Rogers stated that he was not sure this amendment to the ordinance could be introduced without a majority vote by the Village Council.  There was further discussion as to whether or not the ordinance amendment would be placed on the next Public Work Session agenda or be voted upon by the Councilmembers, since there would not be a majority vote.  Ms. Mailander said that she would like to at least amend the ordinance to reflect the new wording in Section 3-5, which sets forth the date for the Reorganization Meeting.  Mayor Knudsen thought that the entire amendment needed to be introduced as a whole.  Ms. Mailander said that different sections were being amended and, by State statute, the amendment must be done within the first seven days.

                        4.         POLITICAL SIGNS

Ms. Mailander explained that this next item deals with Ordinance No. 3540 (amendment to Chapter 190, Section 122) adopted in 2016, dealing with political signs being displayed and the timetable for their removal (no later than 20 days after the date of the election).  In the case of primary elections, the signs of all candidates who fail to remain as candidates in the ensuing general election shall remove their signs no later than 10 days after the date of the primary election.

Mayor Knudsen recalled when political signs were “shoved into” planters in the Central Business District during the last general election, which destroyed the flowers.  The Village Councilmembers thereafter developed an amendment to the ordinance forbidding any political signs from being placed in tree wells or planters and on telephone poles.  Mayor Knudsen did not feel there should be a time limit for signs and asked Mr. Rogers for his opinion. 

Mr. Rogers stated that there are differing positions constitutionally with regard to forcing the removal of political signs (right to free speech) on private property.  He stated that, in the interest of not confusing voters, signs of candidates who fail to remain as candidates in the ensuing general election should be removed as quickly as possible.  However, there are valid reasons for not desiring political signs to remain in place after an election (aesthetics as well as visual obstruction of drivers).  Mayor Knudsen asked Mr. Rogers what would happen if an individual asserted that his or her constitutional rights were being denied.  Mr. Rogers said that the Village may lose if someone challenged the constitutionality of this provision, depending upon where the signs are placed.

Councilman Vagianos said he was fine with the ordinance as it is presently written, although he stated that he is a huge advocate of free speech.  He stated that he was not in favor of keeping up political signs year round.  If the Village is challenged and loses in court, then the Village would abide by the court order.  Mr. Rogers pointed out that “political signs” only encompass signs for an election and not those in support of a cause or program, such as “No CVS” or “No Cannabis in Ridgewood.” 

Deputy Mayor Perron asked if this ordinance would be subject to “strict scrutiny.”  Mr. Rogers replied that he could not recall the specific constitutional standard that could be applied, but he is aware of a number of cases dealing with time periods within which election signs must be removed.  Deputy Mayor Perron felt that the Village has a valid government interest to not allow signs “ad infinitum,” although she was not sure if the Village had a “compelling” government interest.  She stated that she was fine with leaving the ordinance the way it is presently worded.  Ms. Mailander said that that seemed to be the feeling of the majority of the Village Councilmembers.

6.         REVIEW OF OCTOBER 12, 2022 PUBLIC MEETING AGENDA

Ms. Mailander indicated that the following Proclamations are on the October 12, 2022 Public Meeting Agenda:  National Diabetes Awareness Month and Declare October National Bullying Prevention Month.

There are no ordinances for either introduction or public hearing for Ridgewood Water.

Resolutions for Ridgewood Water include:  Award Contract Under State Contract – Annual Maintenance of Chlorine, pH and Phosphate Analyzers; Award Professional Services Contract – Public Policy Consultant; and Award Sole Source Contract – Furnish Corrosion Inhibitor.

Ordinances for introduction include:  #3922 and #3923 - 2022 Management and Non-Union Salary Ordinances, respectively; and #3924 and #3925 – 2022 Management and Non-Union Salary Ordinances, respectively.  Ordinance #3926 – Amend Chapter 3 – Administration of Government – Village Council will not be heard on October 12, 2022.  There are no public hearings on ordinances scheduled.

Resolutions include:  Award Contract – Disposal of Recyclable Materials; Award Additional Partial Award – 2022 Road Resurfacing and Repairs; Title 59 Approval and Award of Contract – Furnishing and Delivering Sodium Bisulfite and Sodium Hypochlorite Solution – Water Pollution Control Facility; Title 59 Approval and Award of Contract – Furnishing Laboratory Services – Water Pollution Control Facility and Graydon Pool Facility; Award Contract Under Bergen County Contract – Vehicle Tracking System; Award Contract Under State Contract – Gasoline and Diesel Fuel; Authorize Change Order – Tree Planting Throughout the Village of Ridgewood (Councilman Vagianos will recuse himself from this discussion); Award Contract – Sale of Compost from Lakeview Compost Facility; Chapter 159 – Accept United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service – Emergency Watershed Protection Program Grant; Authorize Refund of Property Tax Overpayment; Accept 2021 Audit; Approve 2021 Corrective Action Plan; and Declare Property Surplus – Various Departments.

Ms. Mailander asked the Village Councilmembers if they wanted any items off of the consent agenda.  The resolution regarding Downes Tree Service will be taken off the consent agenda.

7.         PUBLIC COMMENTS

Rurik Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, stated that he would like to see a resolution ceding the entire Schedler property to SHPO.  He said that, if this happened, it occurred under the “watch” of the current Village Council and he wanted to see the resolution memorializing that action.  Mr. Halaby said that he finally received a statement from Mr. Rooney regarding a reconciliation of the money spent at the Schedler property, after asking for same for two years.  He stated that this has turned into a $7 million project, over a course of seven years.  Mr. Halaby asked when he could receive a statement advising where things “stand right now” at the Schedler property, predicting that costs are probably close to $8 million at the current time.  He said that, as a 52-year resident of Ridgewood, he and other Ridgewood taxpayers are entitled to receive a reconciliation of the monies spent to date on the Schedler property.

Mr. Halaby stated that he wanted to speak about conceptual plans versus engineering plans.  He said that taxpayers are entitled to be kept up to date on what is transpiring at the Schedler property and Zabriskie-Schedler house, rather than having the Village Council keep the “peasants” in the dark. There was an exchange between Mayor Knudsen and Mr. Halaby regarding a statement made which blamed Mr. Halaby for the delays of the Schedler project and called him a liar.  It was suggested Mr. Halaby was not “knowing the numbers,” but Mr. Halaby stated that he does understand the numbers.  He feels insulted by Mayor Knudsen and asked for an end to the insults.

David Refkin, 401 Wastena Terrace, stated that he has been a Ridgewood resident since March of 2020.  He serves as Vice Chair of the Green Ridgewood Committee.  He is the former Director of Sustainable Development at Time, Inc., and is Board President of the National Recycling Coalition.  In addition, he has been a consultant for the City of Detroit, where they focused on building a recycling infrastructure for the city.  He has been involved in recycling for many years.

Mr. Refkin feels that Ridgewood does a very “solid” job on recycling, but he mentioned that there are opportunities to employ Best Management Practices to increase revenues.  He said that as the Village considers renewing the contract with Atlantic Coast Fibers, there are a few key questions which should be asked of them.  They should be asked what the revenue forecast is and the range for recyclables, given the changeable nature of commodities.  They should ask if there is a floor or ceiling in the pricing.  Mr. Refkin stated that the commodity markets can “bounce all over the place,” but the Village should inquire how the budget can be protected regarding the revenue forecast for the Village.  Atlantic Coast Fibers should be asked how market changes affect Ridgewood’s revenue and what opportunities exist to increase revenues and improve recycling.

Mr. Refkin said that, since many people are now working from home, online shopping has increased, leaving a lot of corrugated cardboard in the recycling stream.  He thinks that consideration should be given to increasing the number of pickups for recyclables.  Village staff should consider if the recycler works with the Village to expand the recycling of new materials, such as various types of plastics that are currently not recycled.  They should consider how the recycling vendor works with the Village to reduce contamination, such as incentives to improve the quality of recyclables, resulting in increased revenue to both the Village and the recycling vendor.  They should ask if there is consideration to collect glass separately.  Since glass breaks, it becomes a contaminant and can ruin valuable recyclables such as metal cans and plastics.  Mr. Refkin indicated that he would be happy to work with the staff of the Recycling Department to improve the recycling operation in Ridgewood.

Deputy Mayor Perron asked Mr. Refkin if he was suggesting more frequent recycling pickups.  Mr. Refkin replied that Best Practices in many cities would have recyclables picked up as often as trash, and sometimes even more often than trash.  He said that Ridgewood could consider some automated systems, so that manpower would not have to be increased, such as one-person trucks with automatic recycling pickup.  Mr. Refkin indicated that the Village could explore a pilot program employing Best Practices, such as 64-gallon carts used strictly for corrugated cardboard.  He stated that cardboard becomes less valuable once it gets wet, and the carts would protect the cardboard and keep it dry if it rains.  If mixed paper could be segregated from corrugated paper, that would also increase the value of the materials.

Boyd A. Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that he thought Mr. Calbi’s suggestion this evening was wonderful, to motivate residents with Smart Controllers to operate them only between the hours of 3:00 A.M. and 7:00 A.M.  He has observed watering of lawns at 10:00 A.M., on different days of the week, and it is hard to tell if someone is using a Smart Controller system or not.  He has not seen a single placard in his neighborhood, yet he sees lawns being watered at all hours of the day.  He has been told by people that they have a Smart Controller, yet he has not observed a single placard.  Mr. Loving stated that he does not live in a neighborhood where the front window of a house is 100 feet away from the curb.  They are about 30 feet away from the curb, and he has not noticed a single placard.  This makes him question whether or not his neighbors, who say they have Smart Controllers, are actually registered.

Mr. Loving said that the suggestion of allowing watering with Smart Controllers only between the hours of 3:00 A.M. and 7:00 A.M. is a good start, but he stated that these residents will still be allowed to water seven days a week.  Residents without Smart Controllers are not allowed to water on Mondays, Thursdays or Fridays.  He is confused as to why those residents with Smart Controllers should be allowed to water seven days a week.  Mr. Loving said that these residents should also be restricted from watering on those days, just like everyone else.  He stated that the new water restrictions need to be incorporated into the ordinance.  He said that, currently, the ordinance only covers people who are using hose-ended sprinklers and automatic systems, but does not cover people who are using Smart Controllers.

Mr. Loving stated that he was “absolutely shocked” that the Village is willing to face a constitutional challenge in court regarding political signs.  He said that the Village Council is living in a vacuum.  Driving through Glen Rock and Wyckoff, Mr. Loving has observed many “Trump 2020” signs still remaining on people’s lawns.  He couldn’t understand why the ordinance would not be changed to reflect the constitutional right of people to have such signs on their property.  He said a challenge by a resident would cause the Village to incur massive legal fees.  He urged the Village Council to reconsider their decision regarding political signs.

Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that she could not understand why she could have a sign on her lawn for a long time stating that she was, for example, in support of full-day kindergarten, yet she can’t have a political sign on her lawn for as long as she wanted.  She stated that it was her constitutional right to have such a political sign on her property for as long as she chose.  Ms. Loving said that she disagreed with some comments made by Village Councilmembers to let the ordinance stand as is and just wait and see if it is challenged.

There were no further comments from the public.

Councilman Vagianos commented that it does sound like a constitutional issue requiring residents to remove political signs from their property 20 days after an election, but the Village is unaware of what the ramifications would be if that ordinance were challenged.  He stated that the Village has an interest in keeping the landscape clear.  He said that if a court finds that this aspect of the ordinance is unconstitutional, then the Village must abide by the court order.  However, until there is a court ruling on same, Councilman Vagianos does not think the Village should be intimidated by the threat of court action or legal fees.  He stated that he understood the reasoning set forth by Boyd and Anne Loving, but respectfully disagreed with them.

Councilman Vagianos asked Ms. Mailander and Mr. Rogers whether the administration of government amendment was going to be placed on the agenda for a vote at the next Village Council meeting.  Ms. Mailander said that she had not planned on adding that amendment to the agenda. Councilman Vagianos stated that the way the amendment is currently written, of the four Village Councilmembers present this evening, the only Councilmember who would be eligible to become Mayor, Deputy Mayor or President Pro Tempore would be Mayor Knudsen.  He asked Mr. Rogers whether Mayor Knudsen would have a conflict in that regard, because she would be the only sitting Councilmember who would benefit by this provision in the amendment. 

Mr. Rogers replied that he did not believe there would be a conflict, and pointed out that there would not be a majority vote to pass the amendment anyway.  Councilman Vagianos stated, however, that the other three Councilmembers would be ineligible to be Mayor with the wording as it now stands.  Deputy Mayor Perron said that the Village Councilmembers can decide, by majority vote, as to who should become Mayor.  The clause in question (greatest number of votes in the last election) only comes into play if such majority vote cannot be reached.  Councilman Vagianos agreed, but stated that if there is no majority vote to decide who becomes Mayor, the only one who would be eligible to become Mayor would be Mayor Knudsen, since the only votes that would be counted would be those from the “last” election, rather than the last two or three elections, since the Councilmembers were not all elected to the Village Council at the same time.  Mr. Rogers stated that he does not feel there would be a conflict, since administration is one of the areas on which Councilmembers are permitted to vote.

Mayor Knudsen said that she agrees with Anne and Boyd Loving and doesn’t understand why the Village would engage in a constitutional challenge in court regarding political signs.  She could not understand why a sign in favor of a cause or issue would be fine, yet a political sign would not be. 

Mayor Knudsen also stated that it is her intention to clear up any misinformation or disinformation that may exist regarding the Schedler property.  She welcomed Mr. Halaby to file an Open Public Records Act (OPRA) request to obtain the authorization for a Phase I Archeological Study, authorized by the Village Council in 2017 to Connolly Hickey.  She also stated that she contacted Ridgewood Walks immediately after seeing an article published by them, informing them that their information is incorrect.  The representative from Ridgewood Walks chose to ignore Mayor Knudsen and left the article as is.  Mayor Knudsen stated that the Schedler project has not lasted for seven years and that $7 million has not been expended.

Deputy Mayor Perron asked Mr. Rogers to finish his explanation as to why he did not feel there would be a conflict regarding the administration of government amendment.  Mr. Rogers stated that administration is one of the areas on which Village Councilmembers are able to vote, i.e., one can vote for oneself for Mayor.

8.         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 Work Session was adjourned at 10:12 P.M.

                                                                                                Susan Knudsen

                                                                                                                     Mayor

Eileen Young

Deputy 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 SEPTEMBER 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 8:00 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 who are serving our great 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 August 31, 2022 be accepted as submitted.  Councilman Vagianos 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 July 6, August 3, and August 10, 2022, having been reviewed by the Village Council and now available in the Village Clerk’s Office, be approved as submitted.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

4.      PROCLAMATIONS

A.               FIRE PREVENTION WEEK

Mayor Knudsen read the following proclamation:

B.      GOLD STAR MOTHER’S DAY

Councilman Vagianos read the following proclamation:

C.     NATIONAL BREAST CANCER AWARENESS WEEK

Councilwoman Reynolds read the following proclamation:

D.     PROCLAIM SEPTEMBER NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION AWARENESS         MONTH

Councilwoman Perron read the following proclamation:

E.         RECOGNIZE 100^th ANNIVERSARY OF UPPER RIDGEWOOD COMMUNITY         CHURCH

Councilwoman Perron read the following proclamation:

5.      SWEARING-IN OF PAMELA PERRON AS DEPUTY MAYOR

Mayor Knudsen announced that Deputy Mayor Michael Sedon has resigned from the Village Council.  She mentioned that she met Mr. Sedon for the first time in 2014 when they were both elected to the Village Council.  Mayor Knudsen stated that Mr. Sedon has an opportunity to advance his career, requiring him to take weekly classes which will conflict with his attendance at Village Council meeting and performing his Village Council responsibilities.  Mayor Knudsen stated that Mr. Sedon truly loves Ridgewood and has always been dedicated to working on behalf of all residents. 

Former Deputy Mayor Sedon desired to leave the Village a better place than he found it, when he was first elected to the Village Council.  He implemented strategies to invest in the Village’s green infrastructure, by planting trees and participating in Sustainable Jersey, which resulted in qualifying Ridgewood for Silver Certification.  Former Deputy Mayor Sedon advocated for maintaining the charm and character of Ridgewood.  Through his actions and his voting record, he cared deeply

about keeping all Village residents safe; he invested his time and talents in the Village; and he served the Village taxpayers thoughtfully and responsibly. 

Mayor Knudsen said that former Deputy Mayor Sedon is one of the most decent, honest, hardworking residents to ever serve on the Ridgewood Village Council.  She thanked him for his service to the Village and wished him well in his future endeavors.  Councilwoman Perron, Councilman Vagianos and Councilwoman Reynolds all spoke highly of former Deputy Mayor Sedon and wished him well.  Everyone spoke of his loyalty to the Village and credited him for the beautiful tree canopy which Ridgewood enjoys today.  Matt Rogers, Village Attorney, also expressed his praise for former Deputy Mayor Sedon’s eight years of service to the Village, his dedication to Village residents, and his earlier days as a reporter.  Ms. Mailander also recalled his earlier days when he was a reporter, stating that what stood out the most were his honesty and diligence in verifying the accuracy of a story.  There was a resounding round of applause.

Mayor Knudsen made a motion to appoint Councilwoman Pamela Perron as Deputy Mayor, effective this evening.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

Mayor Knudsen asked Councilwoman Perron to come forward to be sworn in as Deputy Mayor.  She asked all Councilmembers to join her at the podium.  Mayor Knudsen then swore in Deputy Mayor Perron and there was a resounding round of applause.

6.      SWEARING-IN OF FIREFIGHTERS RYAN HARDT AND CHRISTOPHER SANTUCCI

Mayor Knudsen asked Ryan Hardt to come forward to be sworn in as Firefighter for the Ridgewood Fire Department. With all Councilmembers at the podium, Mayor Knudsen then swore in Firefighter Ryan Hardt, as his parents held the Bible.  There was a resounding round of applause.

Mayor Knudsen then asked Christopher Santucci to come forward to be sworn in as Firefighter for the Ridgewood Fire Department.  With all Councilmembers at the podium, Mayor Knudsen swore in Firefighter Christopher Santucci, as his father held the Bible.  There was a resounding round of applause.

7.         COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

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

Tony Damiano, 274 South Broad Street, stated that he thought the Village Council made a grave mistake in not continuing the Pedestrian Plaza in the Central Business District (CBD) this summer.  Many businesses suffered, and foot traffic in the CBD was extremely slow.  Mr. Damiano stated that he believed more businesses were in favor of continuing the pedestrian plazas than those which were not.  He stated that the CBD should be cleaned up a bit by removing tables and clothing racks set out on the sidewalks by retailers.  He said that it “diluted” the Sidewalk Sale Days organized by the Chamber of Commerce.  He said that it seemed like it is “Sidewalk Sale Days” every day in Ridgewood now.

Carolyn Jacoby, 160 Godwin Avenue, said that she was representing the Shade Tree Commission this evening.  She expressed her thanks and appreciation to former Deputy Mayor Sedon for his years of service and consistent support, allowing the commission to make a dramatic impact in the Village’s tree infrastructure.

Rurik Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, quoted part of an article from The Patch of September 8, 2022:  “While updates and information on the house and property have been light and almost nonexistent, I think we’re avoiding interference,’ Mayor Susan Knudsen said at the meeting. ‘I think, in fairness, that has worked out quite well.”  Mr. Halaby asked how this has “worked out quite well.”  He wondered whether Mayor Knudsen thought it was appropriate to “keep the peasants in the dark,” while the Village Council decides what is best for them.  Mr. Halaby stated that seven years have gone by and the sum of $7 million has been spent so far on the Schedler house and property.  He said that the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard should use the Schedler property as a textbook example of municipal incompetence.

Mr. Halaby spoke about the berm and split rail fence which have been constructed at the Schedler property.  He stated that the footprint of these two structures occupies almost one acre of the seven-acre property.  He said that a wall would provide a safer barrier and provide more soundproofing.  Mr. Halaby indicated that the berm and split rail fence are an “accident waiting to happen.”  He asked whether anyone would want their children or grandchildren playing in a park that is surrounded by an eight-foot berm (despite the trees which are going to be planted on top of the berm, which he asserted would be blown off during a storm) and a split rail fence.  Mr. Halaby said that the temptation for children to climb or go through the fence to play “king of the hill” is “too scary for words.”  Children may challenge each other to see who could kick a ball over the berm.  He reminded everyone that Route 17 lies directly behind the berm, with cars whizzing by at 60+ miles per hour.

Mr. Halaby stated that Ms. Mailander responded to an email he had sent to the Village Councilmembers.  She said that the split rail fence would be backed by mesh.  He wondered whether it was plastic mesh or chicken wire, both of which he said would look ugly.  He added that the chicken wire would also be hazardous to the touch.  Mr. Halaby stated that plastic is an environmental hazard, citing the fact that plastic bags have recently been banned this year in New Jersey.  He said that there would be 2,000 feet of plastic lining the back of the split rail fence.

Anne Burton Walsh, 112 South Irving Street, echoed Ms. Jacoby’s prior comments thanking former Deputy Mayor Sedon for his service to Ridgewood, especially his efforts pushing forth environmental initiatives in the Village.

There were no further comments from the public.

8.         VILLAGE MANAGER’S REPORT

Ms. Mailander stated that the 9/11 portraits of those residents who were lost on 9/11 are displayed in the Belcher Auditorium of the Ridgewood Public Library.  It is open every day in September to honor the memory of neighbors and friends who were lost on that day.

The new Ridgewood Water headquarters is now open at 111 North Maple Avenue, next to the Ridgewood Public Library.  Office hours are from 8:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M., Monday through Friday.  Visitors may park on North Maple Avenue in front of the building and walk in the front door.  The former Ridgewood Water office at Village Hall is now closed.  The move to the new building has allowed Ridgewood Water personnel to be consolidated into one building, allowing for efficiency and collaboration.  There will be an Open House later this fall so that all residents and customers of Ridgewood Water will have the opportunity to tour the new building.

On September 15, 2022, there will be a New Jersey Age-Friendly Virtual Fair.  The purpose of this fair is to showcase age-friendly community work across the state.  All residents, government officials, community groups and other groups are invited to attend.  There will be a session on “Building Community Age-Friendly Initiatives” during the virtual fair.

The fall program brochure from the Recreation Department has been mailed to all Ridgewood residents. Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that they can register for programs on Community Pass.  There are program offerings for all ages, kindergarten through adult.

There will be a Covid-19 Booster Clinic held in Village Hall, for individuals 12 years of age and older, on Wednesday, September 21, 2022, from 3:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M.  Appointments are required.  Individuals requesting a booster must have received a final dose or a booster on or before July 21, 2022.  Minors must have permission of a parent.  Individuals who want to make an appointment may do so at www.ridgewoodnj.net/covid-registration.  Individuals with questions may call 201-670-5500, extension 2312.

The Village of Ridgewood has been selected to join the City Health Dashboard.  Ridgewood is one of 29 cities which have been selected to participate in this initiative.  The Dashboard is a freely accessible, online resource to help the Village leverage the power of data to improve the health and well-being of everyone in the Village.  The Village will now have access to city- and neighborhood-level data for Ridgewood on 26 measures of health and the factors that shape health, such as preventable diseases and housing costs. 

The Village of Ridgewood’s Annual Flu Clinic will be held on October 6, 2022 from 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. at the Community Center in Village Hall.  Registration opened on Tuesday, September 6^th.  Interested individuals may call 201-291-6090 to schedule an appointment.

The Ridgewood Fall Craft and Art Street Festival will be held on Sunday, September 18, 2022 from 11:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.  It will held on East Ridgewood Avenue, rain or shine, with free admission.  There will be craft and food vendors.  Ms. Mailander urged everyone to remain in the CBD after the festival has closed to dine at any of Ridgewood’s wonderful eateries.

The Gold Star Family event will be held on September 25, 2022 in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square beginning at 7:00 P.M. 

Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that lithium batteries and rechargeable batteries should not be thrown away in the garbage, due to the fire explosion potential in doing so.  Lithium batteries are rechargeable and are used in vaping devices and many personal electronics such as cell phones, tablets and laptops, e-bikes, electric toothbrushes, tools, hoverboards, scooters, and solar power backup storage. Instead of throwing these batteries in the garbage, they should be brought to the Recycling Center for proper disposal.

The Chamber of Commerce Farmer’s Market is celebrating its 22^nd anniversary this year.  They will be open on Sundays from 8:30 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. on the west side of the New Jersey Transit train station parking lot, through early November.

Village Council meetings are broadcast live from the Village Hall Courtroom, on the Village website, and Channel 34 on Fios.  Meetings are also available on YouTube.  Upcoming Work Sessions will be held on September 28, October 3 and October 26, 2022 at 7:30 P.M.  The next Public Meeting will be held on October 12, 2022 at 8:00 P.M.  October 3^rd is a Monday and Ms. Mailander indicated that the meeting will be held on Monday rather than the first Wednesday of the month due to Yom Kippur beginning at that time.

8.         VILLAGE COUNCIL REPORTS

Councilman Vagianos stated that he had nothing to report.

Councilwoman Reynolds stated that the first Citizens Safety Advisory Committee (CSAC) meeting this school year will be held on September 15, 2022 at 7:30 P.M. in the Garden Room.  Everyone is welcome to attend.  She reminded everyone that next Tuesday, September 20, 2022 at 7:30 P.M., the Planning Board will be holding a public hearing on the draft Master Plan.  She hopes that everyone has had a chance to review this important, thorough and comprehensive 400+ page document, which is posted on the Village website.  Anyone with suggestions or opinions should make it a point to attend and speak at that meeting.

Councilwoman Reynolds stated that she had an opportunity to visit the Schedler property today.  She stated that the split rail fence looks fantastic.  It is approximately five feet tall with three rails rather than only one or two rails.  She stated that the fence fits in beautifully with the character of the property.

Deputy Mayor Perron indicated that the Central Business District Advisory Committee (CBDAC) met.  There was a lively discussion about the draft Master Plan.

Green Ridgewood met last week, together with some members of the Green Team.  They also had a lively discussion about the draft Master Plan.

Deputy Mayor Perron indicated that she attended a meeting of the Shade Tree Commission last night.  Again, a lively discussion ensued about the proposed Master Plan.

The Chamber of Commerce met this morning and also discussed the proposed Master Plan.  Their Annual Car Show was held on Friday, September 9, 2022.  Deputy Mayor Perron indicated that the show was a resounding success, with 356 cars entered and a full moon gracing the event overhead.  At the Chamber of Commerce meeting, Deputy Mayor Perron indicated that it was announced that some employees are not using the Hudson Street Garage because they got tickets.  Accordingly, the Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce and Deputy Mayor Perron decided that they would go door to door in the CBD with a flyer explaining where employees are permitted to park.  It was suggested at the meeting that the application for the employee hang-tag be delivered to each business in the CBD.  She asked if this could be done, and it was affirmed that this was allowable.  There are seven new storefront businesses opening in the Central Business District.  The Director of the Chamber of Commerce views this as a sign of rejuvenation in the Village. 

The Open Space Committee meets on September 15, 2022 at night, and at that time the proposed Master Plan will also be discussed.  A Park Walk will be conducted on Saturday, September 24, 2022 at Pleasant Park, starting at 10:00 A.M.  Parking will be available at the Hawes Elementary School parking lot.  Everyone will meet in the field.

Mayor Knudsen stated that the Historic Preservation Commission met last Thursday, September 1, 2022.  One sign application was reviewed for the Montana Barbershop.

On September 9, 2022, Mayor Knudsen attended the joint meeting of the Village Council and the Board of Education (BOE).  The first order of business was to welcome the BOE’s new Interim Superintendent, Dr. Fitts.  The issue of student safety arose regarding the use of the Graydon parking lots. BOE representatives indicated that they were not aware of any safety concerns.  Ridgewood High School principal, Jeff Nyhuis, will advise if any concerns are brought to his attention. A discussion was held regarding parking in the municipal complex parking lot, including notifications via RPS eNews, which will include maps of areas available for student parking. 

Mayor Knudsen thanked the BOE for using the Ridgewood Public School eNews to share Master Plan information and Ridgewood Library strategic planning survey.  Resulting from this and the Village E-Notice, an immediate increase in participation was noted in the responses to the Library’s strategic planning survey.  Mayor Knudsen asked all Ridgewood residents to complete the survey and give feedback on a variety of issues relative to the Library, which will greatly aid in their strategic planning efforts. Mayor Knudsen stated that the survey may be accessed at RidgewoodLibrary.org/spsurvey.  This survey is for Ridgewood residents only and needs to be completed by Friday, September 23, 2022. Survey respondents who supply their contact information (phone number and/or email address) will be eligible to win a $100.00 gift card.

Mayor Knudsen congratulated the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce, Tom Hillman, Joan Groom, Chamber President Gary Kolesaire, and others for their outstanding work organizing the 27^th Annual Car Show, which was held recently in Ridgewood’s historic Central Business District.  It was very well attended, with a breathtaking harvest moon overhead.  Mayor Knudsen also thanked the Waldwick School of Rock for donating their time and talents throughout Ridgewood that evening.  The 2022 Mayor’s Trophy was won by John Sanders for his beautiful 1968 Corvair.  Mr. Sanders displayed memorabilia from that era, including books of S&H Green Stamps, an old Esso map, and a display of vintage Coke and Seven-Up bottles in their original six-pack cartons.  Mayor Knudsen gave a “shout out” to Dave [Main] acknowledging his participation in the car show, in which he displayed his 1968 Corvair as well.

On September 10, 2022, Mayor Knudsen attended the monthly Northwest Bergen Mayors meeting.  There was a discussion about energy aggregation.  One municipality is no longer participating in this program due to price fluctuations, which resulted in residents who joined the plan paying higher rates.  There was also a discussion about current challenges with mental health and services.  Ridgewood has been Stigma-Free since 2017, making the dissemination of information more centralized.

Mayor Knudsen stated that the “Coffee with the Council” event held at The Lester Stable was very successful.  She thanked the Village Clerk’s Office for their assistance in organizing this event.  On Saturday, September 10, 2022, the Grand Opening of Nature Sparkle took place at 67 East Ridgewood Avenue.  Mayor Knudsen and Deputy Mayor Perron attended.  Mayor Knudsen urged everyone to visit this beautiful store.

Mayor Knudsen reminded everyone to mark their calendars for Sunday, September 25, 2022 for the Gold Star Families Day event, at 7:30 P.M. in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square.

Mayor Knudsen also reminded everyone to mark October 7^th, 8^th and 9^th on their calendars, which is when ACCESS Ridgewood Disability Awareness Weekend will be held. The ACCESS Committee is working tirelessly on the programs, including programs for seniors and a children’s concert.  Interested individuals should visit RidgewoodLibrary.org for more information.  Mayor Knudsen thanked all the restaurants and patrons in advance for their efforts and donations, respectively, for making this event a success.

Commenting on the Schedler property, Mayor Knudsen recalled a Bergen County hearing which she attended in either 2015 or 2016 regarding a grant application for the historic preservation of the Zabriskie-Schedler house.  She said that, at that meeting, the same person who recently expressed concern for the safety of children on that property was advocating for a 90-foot baseball diamond, where the path from third base to home plate would run parallel with Route 17 (about 15 to 20 feet away).  A 60-foot high errant ball net was suggested to prevent balls from being hurled onto the highway.  Mayor Knudsen said that the berm constructed at the Schedler property, with trees planted on top of the berm, was a “great call” made by the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO).  She said that the berm and split rail fence look beautiful and are consistent with the time and era of the house.  The proposed soccer field is being moved closer to West Saddle River Road, far away from the highway.  There will be a walking path and a playground for children to enjoy.

Mayor Knudsen stated that Village staff have worked extremely hard to secure grants for this project.  She stated that even though grant money is derived from taxpayer dollars, the direct cost to Ridgewood taxpayers has been offset significantly.  She received several phone calls from individuals who recently attended a Fields Committee meeting, during which meeting it was suggested that someone did “some sneaky thing” regarding the Schedler property and got it designated as an historic property and no one is aware of how this “mystery thing” happened.  Mayor Knudsen pointed out that in 2017, the Ridgewood Village Council at that time authorized a Phase 1 archeological study that would allow for a Certificate of Eligibility to be issued by the State of New Jersey, designating the Schedler property as historic.  There was nothing done behind closed doors.  Mayor Knudsen praised the efforts of various residents who strove to have this property and house preserved.

9.         ORDINANCES – RIDGEWOOD WATER

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

10.       RESOLUTIONS – RIDGEWOOD WATER

Ms. Mailander stated that the following resolutions, numbered 22-297 through 22-303 were to be adopted by a consent agenda:

 11.       ORDINANCES

A.        PUBLIC HEARING - #3919 – AMEND CHAPTER 265 – VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC – ESTABLISH STOP SIGNS – EASTSIDE AVENUE AT ALANON ROAD

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3919 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 #3919 by title only:

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

Mayor Knudsen opened the Public Hearing on Ordinance #3919.  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 #3919 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 - #3920 – AMEND CHAPTER 265 – VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC – ESTABLISH STOP SIGNS – HIGHLAND AVENUE AT GREENWAY ROAD AND GREENWAY ROAD AT KNOLLWOOD ROAD

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3920 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 #3920 by title only:

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

Mayor Knudsen opened the Public Hearing on Ordinance #3920.  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 #3920 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

C.        CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING - #3914 – AMEND CHAPTER 190 – LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT – WINDOW DISPLAYS FOR VACANT STOREFRONTS

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3914 by title on third reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.  Councilman Vagianos recused himself from this discussion and vote.

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

RECUSE:     Councilman Vagianos

The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3914 by title only:

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 190 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT, AT ARTICLE X “ZONING”

Mayor Knudsen stated that the Public Hearing on Ordinance #3914 was continued from last month’s meeting due to the fact that the Planning Board had not yet reviewed the ordinance.  The Planning Board has now reviewed the ordinance and given their recommendation, which was to change Chapter 265 to Chapter 190 in Section 2 of the ordinance. 

Deputy Mayor Perron moved to amend Section 2 of Ordinance #3914 to read Chapter 190 rather than Chapter 265.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

RECUSE:     Councilman Vagianos

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance #3914, as amended, be continued.   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 Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

RECUSE:     Councilman Vagianos

Deputy Mayor Perron moved that Ordinance #3914, as amended, be adopted on third reading and final publication as required by law.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

RECUSE:     Councilman Vagianos

12.       RESOLUTIONS

Ms. Mailander stated that the following resolutions, numbered 22-304 through 22-320 were to be adopted by a consent agenda:

Mayor Knudsen thanked the Ridgewood Guild and the Girl Scouts for their contribution towards tree replanting and refurbishment of the tree wells in the Central Business District.

Tony Damiano, Executive Director of the Ridgewood Guild, indicated that he was present at the meeting this evening with Trish Manzo, Ridgewood Guild Secretary.  He indicated that they were extremely pleased to have raised money for the Village, citing the efforts of Ridgewood Guild members, Ridgewood residents, the Ridgewood High School graduating class of 1991, and the local Girl Scout Troop.  Their donation is in the amount of $2,250.00, and they were very proud to present this check to the Village Council so that the CBD can be beautified.   There was a round of thanks and a resounding round of applause.

About 10 Girl Scouts had been in attendance at the meeting, but they had to leave early because they had school the next day.  Mayor Knudsen stated that she was unaware that they had been in attendance.

Ms. Mailander stated that the following resolutions, numbered 22-321 through 22-324 were to be considered separately and read in full.  Councilman Vagianos recused himself from all four resolutions to be considered.

13.       COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

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

Rurik Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, said that if the public is limited to three minutes while making public comments, the members of the Village Council should not be allowed to ramble on and on when responding to those comments, without giving the person who made the public comments an opportunity to respond.  Mr. Halaby stated that everyone is not living in Putin’s Moscow, but are living in the United States. 

Mr. Halaby urged Deputy Mayor Perron, since he felt she was the most environmentally sensitive Village Councilmember, to insist that a study be done if the plan was to use plastic mesh to back the split rail fence on the Schedler property.  Mr. Halaby stated that he had asked the Village Council to suspend all work on the berm and fence until approval was received from the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) indicating that the barrier is safe.  He reiterated that he was concerned about children being able to play on the berm and climb the split rail fence.  Mr. Halaby also asked that a report from an environmental consulting firm be obtained regarding the use of a mesh plastic backing for the split rail fence.  He asked that the Village Council cease declaring communications with SHPO as being deliberative, as a way of keeping “the peasants” away from the flow of information.  He said that such information should not be kept from the public.

Mr. Halaby said that the Village should not be proud of the Schedler property, but rather should be ashamed of the seven years which has passed and the $7 million which has been spent so far to improve this property.  He asked if anyone knew how much of the Schedler house really dates back to 1820.  He stated that the majority of the house was built much later than 1820.  He asked how much of the house, after restoration, the public will be able to see and enjoy as being an example of 1820 architecture.  He spoke about the “phony” windows and copper gutters that were added, stating that a farmer living in the 1800s would certainly not be able to afford copper gutters. He said that the split rail fence should be made of cedar rather than pine, which deteriorates much quicker than cedar.  He said that poor decisions are being made for this property by one autocratic person in a vacuum with little interference.

Carolyn Jacoby, 160 Godwin Avenue, stated that she wanted to mention the untimely passing of Michael Gurriero, who was a volunteer on the Shade Tree Commission.  He added much vitality to the committee and was a valuable asset to the community.  He was a professional landscape architect, but never mentioned it, and was always eager to work and help out on Earth Day and at other events.  She mentioned that he will be sorely missed and expressed her condolences to his family.

Anne Burton Walsh, 112 South Irving Street, congratulated Deputy Mayor Perron on her new appointment.  She asked which six locations would be designated in the Village to receive the new Porous Pave sidewalk material (during the trial period).  She wondered whether it would be the first six homeowners who applied to be in the program.  Ms. Walsh spoke about the tree ordinance, specifically Chapter 260, Section 260-6, regarding sidewalk construction and driveway enlargement.  The ordinance states that a homeowner may not remove a tree or roots unless a permit is obtained from Declan Madden, Village Arborist.  However, it was her understanding that Mr. Madden was authorized to hand out such permits to people who objected to the additional cost of sidewalk construction in order to preserve a Village tree. 

Ms. Walsh stated that she was very much in favor of the requirement that homeowners cannot simply remove a tree to make way for a sidewalk.  However, Ms. Walsh stated that it was the “right” of several of her neighbors to do so this summer.  She stated that it costs thousands, not hundreds, of dollars to replace sidewalk slabs in such a way that a tree is preserved while at the same time adhering to the 5% slope required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) if roots are not ground.  She wondered if the proposed action of the Village Council to reimburse homeowners for extra sidewalk construction costs, in order to preserve a Village tree, could be applied retroactively.

Ann Loving, 342 South Irving Street, indicated that former Deputy Mayor Sedon is one of the strongest people she knows.  In his initial campaign, an attempt was made by an elected official to sideswipe his campaign, before he was elected into office.  These actions resulted in Mr. Sedon losing his job, but he still persevered and was twice elected to the Village Council.  In addition, he was attacked “ridiculously” by a Council colleague after he was elected, resulting in an unsuccessful court action by the colleague who attacked him.  Ms. Loving thanked Mr. Sedon for “ignoring the noise and the nonsense.”  She described him as a “straight shooter” who stuck to the facts, was never swayed by pressure, and “voted his conscience.”  Ms. Loving congratulated Deputy Mayor Perron on her new appointment and thanked her for “stepping up.”

Boyd A. Loving, 342 South Irving Street, thanked former Deputy Mayor Sedon for his service and was disappointed that he was not present at the meeting this evening.  He congratulated Deputy Mayor Perron in her new role and stated that he was confident she would do a fine job in her new role.

Mr. Loving stated that he sent a note to the Village Council regarding an incident which recently occurred on the Dunham Trail.  Someone literally drove their car 300 feet down the trail from Spring Avenue and parked it there.  He feels that the Village should take some action to prevent this from occurring in the future, such as installing a bollard or safety gate at the entrance to the trail to prevent cars from accessing the trail, or even the construction of a curb.  He mentioned that there is a curb cut by the entrance to the trail and it appeared as though cars were permitted to enter at that location.  He asked the Village Manager to direct the Parks Department to survey the location to determine what can be done to improve safety at the Dunham Trail.

Mr. Loving stated that there is a driveway near the new Ridgewood Water headquarters from which cars can access the municipal complex parking lot.  He said that Mr. Calbi had told him that he was planning on installing a speed bump or gate in that location to prevent people from entering the municipal complex parking lot.

Mr. Loving indicated that he was driving to Hawes Elementary School this evening to drop off some clothing in the donation bin and noted a few sidewalks that have been removed on Stevens Avenue and are “open,” awaiting sidewalk construction.  Mr. Loving said that this was a primary route for children to walk to school.  He asked if the Police Department could inspect this area and install signage directing the children where it would be safe for them to walk.

Mr. Loving also spoke about the section in the Village Code which states the procedure for appointing a Deputy Mayor.  When reading that section, Mr. Loving noted that it states that all elections are held in May and appointments are made in July.  He wondered when the Village Council would make the necessary changes to the Code so it reflects the fact that the elections currently take place in November.  He stated that the Code does not indicate when the swearing in takes place of newly elected officials.

Mayor Knudsen stated that signage has been installed on South Irving Street to ensure that children have a safe walking route to school.  She asked Ms. Mailander to direct the Police Department to do the same thing on Stevens Avenue.  Ms. Mailander said that she would do so.  Mayor Knudsen also indicated that the Village Code section dealing with the election date would be put on the agenda for the next Village Council meeting so that it can accurately reflect that the elections currently take place in November.  Ms. Mailander replied that she would do so.

Mayor Knudsen said that she will not allow the Schedler “nonsense” to continue without comment.  The State of New Jersey Historic Preservation Office determined that the Schedler house was historic, whether it was because of the trim work or the Dutch frame colonial structures.  The State of New Jersey and the Federal government added the house to the National Registry of Historic Places.  The Historic Preservation Commission requested the Certificate of Eligibility and the Zabriskie-Schedler house and Schedler property have been included in the historic element of the Master Plan for decades.

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

14.       RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION

Ms. Mailander read Resolution #22-325 to go into Closed Session as follows:

15.       ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Vagianos, seconded by Councilwoman Reynolds, and carried by voice vote, the Village Council’s Regular Public Meeting was adjourned at 9:25 P.M.

                                                ____________________________________

                                                                                                Susan Knudsen

                                                                                                       Mayor

______________________________________

                     Heather A. Mailander

             Village Manager/Village Clerk