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 JULY 6, 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 7:30 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act.  At roll call the following were present:  Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen.  Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; Eileen Young, Deputy Village Clerk; and Matthew 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 victims of the unspeakable violence which occurred on July 4, 2022.

 

2.         COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

Charles Reilly, 448 North Maple Avenue, expressed concerned about the reduced hours of operation at Graydon Pool.  He stated that Graydon Pool is a wonderful “gem” in the Village and has been well managed for many years.  He understands about the lifeguard shortage, but he thinks the real issue concerns the wages paid to lifeguards.  Mr. Reilly mentioned that New York City just increased the salaries for lifeguards and is offering bonuses in order to attract qualified staff.  He said that more programs should be established to train lifeguards.  He stated that his three daughters were all swim team coaches and lifeguards at Graydon Pool when they were younger.  He said that, for college students especially, salary is an important factor.  Mr. Reilly expressed concerned that the lifeguard shortage will become more acute as the summer progresses.  He urged the Village Councilmembers to find the necessary funds to attract and hire competent lifeguards so that Graydon Pool can remain open.

 

Susan Schreiber, 52 Warren Place, said she wanted to speak this evening about the lifeguard situation at Graydon Pool.  She heard on the news today that Mayor Adams raised the salaries for New York City lifeguards to $19.00+ an hour.  Mayor Adams also mentioned reducing the time necessary to train lifeguards.  Ms. Schreiber understands, however, that the training for lifeguards in New York is different from the training a lifeguard would need at Graydon Pool.

 

Ms. Schreiber mentioned that she swims from 6:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. in the deep end at Graydon Pool.  She was saddened one day when a couple arrived at the pool with a small child around 6:00 P.M. and the parents could swim but the young child could not.  Ms. Schreiber also mentioned that there was some confusion as to whether or not people can sit on the beach after the pool has closed.  She was informed that the patio could be used to eat after closing, but she noticed that everyone leaves the beach at 6:00 P.M.  However, Ms. Schreiber feels that the reduced hours primarily affect the working people who live in Ridgewood and surrounding areas, since they are not able to get to Graydon Pool before 6:00 P.M.  She stated that, in this day and age, people really need a place to just relax and socialize, and this is hampered if people have to leave the pool at 6:00 P.M. 

 

Ms. Schreiber urged the Village Councilmembers to seriously consider pay increases for all lifeguards and staff.  She said that hourly rates should be clearly shown in ads for lifeguards so that more people will be motivated to apply.  She also suggested having a survey conducted at the present time for all current lifeguards to answer questions anonymously about their experiences, good or bad.  Ms. Schreiber also suggested speaking to high school coaches, especially the swim teach coaches from Ridgewood and other communities, to see if that could be an avenue towards hiring more lifeguards.

 

Lori Howard, 218 North Maple Avenue, said that she has been swimming at Graydon Pool for over 30 years.  She is the former director at South Orange Municipal Pool.  Ms. Howard said that she agreed with Ms. Schreiber’s comments regarding the limited hours.  She said that Graydon Pool is a testament to the natural beauty of the Village and to the recreational water access to swimming and the beach during the summer.  During times of inflation and recession, the residents of Ridgewood appreciate the efforts made by the Village to keep Graydon Pool open as much as possible.  She mentioned that Graydon Pool operated beautifully during the Covid-19 pandemic and was a godsend for many people.  She stated that she and others understand the present difficulties of securing lifeguards to assure safety at the pool. 

 

Ms. Howard said that the Village Councilmembers need to allocate monies to increase salaries for the lifeguards and develop incentives to motivate lifeguards to join the team at Graydon Pool, above the average wages paid to a babysitter ($20.00 hourly rate).  Ms. Howard stated that two years of the pandemic have caused massive disruptions to people’s lives, especially those of children, on many levels, including learning how to swim.  She said that there is an increased need for swim instruction.  Lifeguards must be recruited early by showing that there is a positive working environment at Graydon Pool.  She stated that now is the opportunity for the Village Council to improve attendance and participation at Graydon Pool, since people are very grateful for outdoor public engagement, which is vital to mental and physical health.  She urged that the management structure at the pool be evaluated so that the pool is run in the most efficient way as possible, since the public is the key to Graydon’s future.  The recreational support staff, although young, is very impressive and customer friendly.  However, she stated that the entire pool team must perform cohesively as well.

 

Ms. Howard said that planning for Graydon Pool should begin at the present time to ensure smooth operations next year and a wonderful experience for those of all ages who attend the pool, whether relaxing on the beach or swimming.  She stated that patrons are being lost because current pool restrictions are making it difficult for some people to come to Graydon in the evenings after work.  Others cannot see their kids swim at all after their work day, as they are told they cannot sit on the beach after 6:00 P.M.   New families with children hoping to pass the deep water test need more lessons in order to do so.  She said that masked youth during the pandemic lost a solid two years of activities.  Swimming is a safety skill that Ridgewood should aggressively promote.

 

Fred Holvan, 188 West Glen Avenue, indicated that he was speaking this evening in support of Graydon Pool and its staff.  He said that it was his understanding that on Saturday, June 25, 2022, there were only four lifeguards working.  In order to maintain safety, and due to the shortage of guards, only a very limited area of the pool was open for use.  These restrictions were undoubtedly the cause of provocation for a number of incidents which occurred, where patrons were openly hostile towards the guards.  Mr. Holvan said that this resulted in an extremely unpleasant day for the guards who were on duty that day.  He felt that it was deplorable of these patrons to undermine the guards’ authority, who are responsible for the safety of all pool patrons. It was his feeling that these “obnoxious” adults should have been confronted and possibly ejected from the pool grounds.

 

Mr. Holvan stated that this past Saturday, July 2, 2022, was very different.  There were twice as many guards and all patrons were cooperative.  He urged the Village Councilmembers to research the actual rates paid to Ridgewood lifeguards.  He wondered why there were only four guards on one Saturday and twice that number on the following Saturday.  He said that the lifeguards need to be paid more, since they are our frontline workers for safety at the pool, as the name “life-guards” implies.  The lifeguards are responsible for enforcing the rules at the pool in order to maintain safety.  He said that Graydon Pool must not be “starved to death” by underfunding salaries for its staff.

 

In addition, Mr. Holvan said that he has heard former Village residents say that the thing they miss most about Ridgewood is Graydon Pool.  He urged the Village Councilmembers to do whatever they have to do in order to preserve Graydon Pool.

 

Linda Motashami, 73 Pershing Avenue, stated that she agreed with the comments of the residents who spoke this evening.  She has lived in Ridgewood for over 30 years.  She stated that her own children and 23 foster children have enjoyed the facilities at Graydon Pool.  She mentioned a New York Times article about Graydon Pool, and she stated that the pool is one of the primary reasons why people move to the Village.  Ms. Motashami said that the pool needs to stay open later so that people who work during the day are able to enjoy the pool, along with their children. She feels that the lifeguards need to be paid more; otherwise, they will not work at Graydon and will work elsewhere. 

 

Ms. Motashami suggested that a program be established wherein lifeguard training would be given free of charge, with a promise by the participant that they will work as a lifeguard at Graydon during the summer.  She said that it was her understanding that the lifeguards are required to clean the toilets at Graydon, which is not the norm at most places of employment.  She said that lifeguards are paid to keep people safe, not clean toilets.  Ms. Motashami also said that lifeguards should not be berated or yelled at for things over which they have no control.  She feels that there should be some protocol in place for such situations.  She mentioned that there are many residents in Ridgewood who cannot afford to go away on vacation and Graydon Pool is their only way of enjoying the summer.  She is pleased with the adult swim available between 6:00 P.M. and 7:00 P.M., mostly enjoyed by those over the age of 65 years.  When swimming during that time period, Ms. Motashami said that it is sad to see families leaving with their young children at 6:00 A.M.

 

There were no further comments from the public. 

 

Mayor Knudsen remarked that they have been working since last summer to try to resolve some of the issues seen this year at Graydon Pool.  Addressing Ms. Howard’s comments about Graydon Pool being opened in 2020, Mayor Knudsen stated this was an emotional time for her as well.  She mentioned how hard the Village Councilmembers worked to ensure that Graydon Pool would be open during the pandemic.

 

Councilman Vagianos thanked all the residents who spoke during public comments this evening. He appreciated the fact that people were kind and compassionate, rather than yelling and screaming.  As a businessowner for 25 years, Councilman Vagianos said that he is puzzled by the current lack of workers.  He said that they have “disappeared into the woodwork” and he has never seen anything like it.  He said that all businesses have been affected, not only his business, and Graydon Pool is also feeling the effects of the worker shortage.  He mentioned that a pay raise is not the panacea that everyone hopes it will be.  While it is a factor, it is not the only solution.

 

3.         MANAGER’S REPORT

 

Ms. Mailander said that she was pleased to announce that Nancy Bigos, Director of Parks and Recreation, and Robert Rooney, Chief Financial Officer, have reviewed the budget for the lifeguards.  In addition to the $3.00 per hour increase, across the board, previously initiated for Graydon staff, there will be an additional $4.00 per hour increase.  Average hourly rates for a lifeguard will increase from $16.00 to $20.00, with incremental raises based on experience.  Lifeguards currently earning $19.00 per hour will soon be making $23.00 per hour.

 

Ms. Mailander stated that this year, in particular, the Village did a huge recruitment effort to hire lifeguards for the summer, including reaching out to local high schools, colleges, community colleges, swim teams and the YMCA, and an Open House was held in March. Some potential candidates could not be hired because they were not good swimmers and some thought it was boring to sit in a chair all day.  Some new lifeguards have been hired since the beginning of the summer. 

 

Ms. Mailander mentioned that both Steve Diamond and Ms. Bigos stated at the last meeting that what lifeguards wanted most was just one shift.  In order to avoid double shifts, the pool hours had to be reduced.  More so than the pay, the lifeguards do not want to be overworked.  Ms. Mailander was empathetic to working parents who perhaps cannot make it to the pool in time before it closes.  However, she expressed hope that these parents can enjoy the pool on the weekends.  The Village Councilmembers will continue to work on these issues and make improvements at Graydon Pool.  They will continue to do outreach to see if more lifeguards can be hired, particularly for next year.

 

Mayor Knudsen remarked that she had asked for lifeguard training to start last summer, that training should be funded by the Village, and that available Village staff members should be asked if they were interested in working as a lifeguard if training were offered.  She stated that free family memberships or friend memberships should be offered to lifeguards to encourage them to work at the pool.  She asked how the pay increases were going to affect the hours during which the pool remained open.

 

Ms. Mailander said that if more candidates are attracted by the pay rate, then more people can be hired as lifeguards and, as a result, the pool will be able to remain open more hours.  With the current number of lifeguards, there is not enough coverage to ensure safety.

 

Mayor Knudsen wondered if there were other ways to incentivize lifeguards to work more hours, rather than just working one shift.  She said that it concerns her that families are going to the pool with small children, who are then told that they must leave because the pool is closing.  She asked how many lifeguards are currently employed and how that affected the hours of operation.

 

Ms. Mailander replied that, for the time being, the hours at Graydon Pool will remain as is.  There are some lifeguards in training and, once they are fully certified, the hours of operation will be reassessed.  The paramount importance is safety for both the lifeguards and patrons.

 

Mayor Knudsen asked how long the training program is, and Ms. Mailander replied that the training program takes 51 hours to complete.  The training runs from June 26 to the last week in July.  Mayor Knudsen said that that meant it will not be until the end of July before the hours of operation can perhaps be increased.  It was mentioned that college students leave to go back to school at the middle or end of August, and high school students start sports practice or other activities.  Mayor Knudsen mentioned that advertisements for lifeguards should include a salary range, since there may be some candidates who already have training and/or experience.  She said that the Village is grappling with the same exact problems as last year with regard to having available lifeguards to work at the pool.  Ms. Mailander reminded Mayor Knudsen that there is a nationwide lifeguard shortage.  Mayor Knudson replied that there were other available options which were not looked at carefully enough last year.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds asked for clarification about the rate of pay, with the future raise.  Ms. Mailander replied that lifeguards who previously got a raise from $16.00 to $19.00 an hour will now be making $23.00 an hour with the additional $4.00 increase.  Councilwoman Reynolds recalled Mr. Diamond’s comments that even though the pool will close at 6:00 P.M., with adult swim being permitted between 6:00 P.M. and 7:00 P.M., they will not be asking patrons to leave the beach.  They will just not be allowed in the water after 6:00 P.M. in the closed areas.

 

Ms. Bigos explained that this is the first time she has heard that residents have been asked to leave the beach at 6:00 P.M.  She said that she and Mr. Diamond are doing everything within their power to offer residents the opportunity to enjoy Graydon Pool.  On July 4, 2022, they were able to obtain additional lifeguards and the entire facility was open (all sections).  She explained that they are basically assessing the situation at Graydon day by day, with the sections open depending upon the number of available lifeguards. 

 

When questioned by Mayor Knudsen, Ms. Bigos stated that lifeguards are not required to clean the bathrooms.  There are two maintenance men who work at the pool.  However, sometimes the maintenance man may be at lunch and there is an accident in the restroom.  In that scenario, staff may need to help out, but this is a rare instance.

 

Mayor Knudsen asked Ms. Bigos if it were possible to offer free friend or family membership to a lifeguard, in addition to the pay increase, to incentivize a lifeguard to work additional hours.  Ms. Bigos replied that there is already a program in place where volunteer firefighters are able to obtain free memberships to Graydon Pool.  She asked if the Village Council would like to expand this program and offer it to police officers or emergency medical service workers.  Mayor Knudsen clarified by saying that she would like to see it offered to lifeguards.  Ms. Bigos said that this could absolutely be done.  Councilman Vagianos said that it doesn’t cost the Village anything and is a great “perk” to motivate lifeguards to perhaps work additional hours.

 

Mayor Knudsen said that even though the current lifeguards will get the pay increase, it still doesn’t resolve the issue of reduced hours of operation at Graydon Pool.  She said that they need to get creative and think of ways to motivate lifeguards to work additional hours, to help the Village during this difficult time, and to allow all sections of Graydon Pool to remain open.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds asked Ms. Bigos what the range of pay is for all lifeguards.  Ms. Bigos replied that $23.00 an hour is the high end of the range.  Ms. Mailander clarified that the pay range is from $19.00 per hour to $23.00 per hour.  There were some lifeguards who originally had been working for $12.00 an hour.  Councilwoman Reynolds asked how the current pay range compared to lifeguard wages in other municipalities.  Ms. Bigos said that she was not sure, but the pay range is competitive.  She indicated that private clubs, such as the Ridgewood Country Club, is offering $20.00 a hour.  She said some municipalities may be offering less and that some private swim clubs may be offering a little bit more.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds said that the pay increase and free friend/family memberships are great, but they need to “spread the word” and do an extensive outreach.  She asked Ms. Bigos if any more posts have been placed on Facebook.  Ms. Bigos replied in the affirmative and said that she posted on Ridgewood Moms and Dads and the Ridgewood Parks and Recreation page.  She said that a multifaceted approach was used to attract lifeguard candidates.  Several email blasts were sent out to all individuals using the CommunityPass system.  Councilwoman Reynolds said that another email blast should be sent out announcing the new pay scale.  Ms. Bigos said that this will be done right away.  They were just waiting for approval by the Village.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds said that she was concerned about the abuse encountered by lifeguards from patrons.  She asked what the protocol is when such a situation arises.  Ms. Bigos replied that it depends upon the severity of the event.  There is a procedure in place where incident reports are written up, almost daily.  It depends upon whether the incident involves teenagers using vulgar language or having a sand fight versus someone passed out and intoxicated on the beach.  The management team takes care of most incidents.  There is no alcohol allowed at Graydon Pool.

 

Mayor Knudsen said that she was confident that the Village Council will support whatever measures need to be taken in order to make Graydon Pool a success.  The water is crystal clear, and she said it is a shame that the pool is facing a lifeguard shortage and reduced hours.  She suggested posting on the Bergen County Facebook pages, which reach a huge number of people.  Ms. Bigos indicated that if a lifeguard with a certification wished to work at Graydon, then the training program is reduced to 18 hours.  These extra hours of training are needed since Graydon Pool is a sandy bottom pool and not a concrete pool.  Lifeguards are paid while they are being trained.

 

Ms. Mailander continued with her Manager’s Report.  She thanked the Village Councilmembers for all of their support.  She also thanked everyone who volunteered during the Ridgewood Fourth of July festivities and to those who donated.  She thanked the Village employees for working tirelessly in the days leading up to the event and also on July 4^th.  She said that all the American flags along the parade route, the school floats, bands and fireworks created a very special July 4^th celebration.

 

Residents need to conserve water.  The recent warm weather, along with little rainfall, has created a strain on the Village’s water resources.  All Ridgewood Water customers received a robocall recently reminding them of the water restrictions and of the need to conserve water.

 

Ms. Mailander said that vehicles continue to be stolen in the Village.  Just today, there was an attempted theft of a vehicle and a successful automobile theft.  In both instances, the key fobs were in the cars.  She reminded everyone not to leave the fobs in their cars and to lock their cars at all times.

 

The largest Day Camp ever held in Ridgewood began on June 28, 2022.  There were 596 children registered to participate in the Day Camp (grades 1 through 6).  The camp ends on Friday, August 5, 2022.

 

“Movies on the Beach” will be shown at Graydon Pool.  Individuals do not have to be a member of Graydon Pool to attend.  Everyone should bring a chair or blanket to watch the movie.  On Friday, July 15, 2022, the movie “Space Jam II” will be shown and, on Friday, August 5, the movie “Sing II” will be shown.  Entrance fee is $5.00 per person, cash or check.  Movies start at dusk.  The Water’s Edge café will be open until the start of the movie.

 

The Village is still seeking additional lifeguards.  Tennis and pickleball memberships are available through Community Pass or at The Stable.  Pickleball hours are now the same as tennis hours, 8:00 A.M. to dusk. 

 

Music in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square will be presented on Saturday and Sunday nights during the summer months.  The Ridgewood Guild is sponsoring free movies in the park on Wednesday nights.  Movies include “Sing” on July 13 and “Hairspray” on July 27 (both at 9:00 A.M.), and, at 8:30 P.M., “Clueless” on August 10, and “All About Eve” on August 24.

 

The Ridgewood Guild is also sponsoring “Music in the Night” for its 13^th season.  Music will be provided in various locations on Friday nights through Labor Day.  The Ridgewood Guild will also sponsor “Art in the Park” on the first Friday in August.

 

The 64^th Annual Free Summer Concert Series at the Kasschau Memorial Shell has commenced.  Performances will be held every Tuesday and Thursday through August 4^th.  Programs begin at 8:30 P.M., unless otherwise noted.  The Senior Bus will be providing free transportation to several of the shows held on Tuesdays.  Interested persons may call 201-670-5500, extension 2203, to make a reservation.  In the event that a performance is held indoors due to inclement weather, interested persons may call 201-444-1776 after 6:30 P.M. on the day of the performance for an update.

 

On Thursday, July 21, 2022, a Health Resources Fair will be held in the parking lot next to the Kasschau Memorial Shell from 7:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.  There will be information given out regarding at-home Covid-19 tests.  There will also be giveaways and important information offered from Valley Hospital, Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, Ridgewood Parks and Recreation, Ridgewood Health Department, Age-Friendly Ridgewood and West Bergen Mental Healthcare.  The senior bus will not be available on July 21^st.

 

Nominating packets for Village Council candidates are available at the Village Clerk’s Office.  Two Village Council positions are up for election in the November General Election.

 

Household hazardous waste collection held by the Bergen County Utilities Authority will take place at the Bergen County Campgaw Mountain Reservation, 200 Campgaw Road, Mahwah, New Jersey, from 9:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M., rain or shine, on Saturday, July 12, 2022.  No commercial vehicles will be allowed, and no commercial or business waste will be accepted.  Proof of Bergen County residency will be required.

 

The Farmers Market at the Ridgewood Train Station parking lot (west side) is celebrating its 22^nd anniversary.  It will be open on Sundays from 8:30 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. until approximately late October/early November.

 

School crossing guards are needed to join the Ridgewood team.  Anyone interested in working a flexible schedule, for two hours per day on school days, should contact the Area Supervisor at 201-969-7182.

 

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 Session will be held on August 3, 2022 and September 10, 2022 at 7:30 P.M.  The next Public Meetings are scheduled for July 13 and August 10, 2022 at 8:00 P.M.

 

Ms. Mailander stated that the Recycle Coach app is available to all Ridgewood residents who wish to sign up, at no cost.  The app was initially for recycling, but it will now include notifications from Graydon Pool informing residents which sections are open/closed, hours of operation, and whether they are closed due to lightning.  Residents who are not members of Graydon Pool should uncheck that feature in the app so that they do not get notifications.  Mayor Knudsen asked that this be sent via e-notice to all residents.  Ms. Mailander said that she will do so.

 

4.         COUNCIL REPORTS

 

Councilwoman Perron said that she would like to thank the Fourth of July Committee for a wonderful day, from beginning to end.  The parade was a demonstration of creativity and Americana with the parasols, music and floats.  She thanked all Village staff who kept everyone safe.  The Village fireworks were like “jewelry in the sky.”  She especially loved the “Smiley Face” fireworks and stated that it was really nice to hear everyone laugh.  She also thanked Dawn Cetrulo from the Ridgewood Health Department who managed to supply earplugs for people who attended the fireworks on Vets Field.  This was a concern of Green Ridgewood due to the noise affecting public health and hearing.

 

The Environmental Committee of Green Ridgewood went to a densifier demonstration at the Recycling Center showing how styrofoam is densified into bricks, which are used to make frames and moldings.  People from other communities also attended the demonstration, and they were amazed at how advanced the recycling program is in Ridgewood.  She urged everyone to recycle EPS extruded styrofoam (white packing).  It can be placed in a huge trailer which is provided for that purpose at the Recycling Center. 

 

Green Ridgewood next meets on July 7, 2022 at 7:00 P.M. at The Stable.  A topic of discussion on the agenda concerns leaf blower noise and how the Village might address this issue.  Meetings are open to the public.

 

Regarding the Village’s Renewable Energy Aggregate Program (Encouraging Alternative Green Energy for Ridgewood - EAGER), Councilwoman Perron indicated that there were three bids received regarding the hiring of a consultant, who will help the Village find the best supplier and price possible for electricity with renewable content.  Those bids are currently being reviewed.  She announced that Chairman Bob Upton is, unfortunately, moving to be closer to his grandchildren, and Councilwoman Perron wanted to especially thank him for his indefatigable service on the Green Ridgewood Committee.  He was instrumental in implementing various programs, including styrofoam recycling, plastic bag ban, the energy aggregation initiative, green restaurants, and Sustainable Jersey.  He gave feedback to the committee on Planning Board meetings and worked tirelessly to keep the committee organized.

 

The Open Space Committee has not met recently, but Councilwoman Perron and Mayor Knudsen reviewed the draft of the Open Space Element for the Master Plan.  She said that it was very exciting to see this nearing completion.  She stated that it was a very thought-provoking document which will lead Ridgewood into the future.

 

The Chamber of Commerce has not yet met in the month of July.  The Central Business District Advisory Committee (CBDAC) meets on July 14, 2022 via Zoom, during which time they will be discussing various issues, some of which will be discussed at this evening’s Village Council meeting.  At the CBDAC meeting, a developer, John Saracino, will be the guest speaker.  Mr. Saracino lives in Ridgewood and was the developer for The Benjamin apartment complex on Franklin Avenue and for the NoMa apartment complex on North Maple Avenue.  Anyone interested in joining the CBDAC meeting on July 14^th should contact Councilwoman Perron, so that she may send the link.

 

Councilman Vagianos stated that he had nothing to report.  Councilwoman Reynolds stated that Project Pride just distributed the second round of the Project Pride Awards.  The winners of this round have a 4 to 4.5 foot sunflower staked in their front yard.  Anyone who wants to nominate a homeowner for their beautifully landscaped front yard should contact Councilwoman Reynolds and give her that information.  She thanked Mayor Knudsen for her help in distributing the sunflower stakes.

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon echoed some of the comments made about the Fourth of July celebration.  He thanked the Fourth of July Committee, all the volunteers, and all Village staff who made the celebration a success.

 

Mayor Knudsen remarked how much she loved the movie “Clueless” and the extruder. (?)  She thanked Councilwoman Reynolds and Councilwoman Perron for reviewing a document with her extensively this morning.  She stated how much she enjoyed joining Councilwoman Reynolds in distributing the Project Pride Awards, and also how beautifully landscaped some homes are.

 

Last week, Mayor Knudsen attended meetings for the Ridgewood Library Board of Trustees and ACCESS.  She said that there was not much to report from either meeting.

 

On Friday, July 1, 2022, seven Vietnam veterans received Vietnam lapel pins in recognition of their service. Congressman Josh Gottheimer and his staff worked tirelessly to make sure veterans were honored at that ceremony, including Retired Lance Corporal Raymond Litwitz, Retired Private First Class Joseph Burns, Retired Army Commander Jerald Maksymowicz, Retired Captain Gerald Bucci, Retired Army Captain Wayne Lemme, Retired Specialist Fourth Class Jack Marcasiano, and Retired Specialist Fifth Class Donald Gordon Myles, who was posthumously awarded eight medals for his service in Vietnam.  She thanked Bergen County Commissioners Mary Amoroso, Germaine Ortiz, Tom Sullivan and Ramon Hache for attending the ceremony. 

 

Mayor Knudsen also thanked Shaun Hutchinson, Director of Bergen County Department of Human Services, Veteran Affairs, for his assistance, as well as Ridgewood American Legion Post 53.  She also thanked the Ridgewood Public Library for allowing the use of their auditorium for the event.  She thanked Congressman Gottheimer, and gave a special thanks to Gianna Lombardi, who works for Congressman Gottheimer.  There was a slight “hiccup” regarding the lapel pins because some of the veterans had not filed their privacy paperwork; however, this was able to be taken care of soon thereafter. She also thanked all men and women who have served and made sacrifices for our nation.

 

Mayor Knudsen indicated that the Fourth of July festivities were wonderful.  She has been Liaison to the Fourth of July Committee since 2014.  She appreciated the thoughtful comments made by Deputy Mayor Sedon regarding the fact that the parade had not been held during the Covid pandemic.  The Annual Flag Raising Ceremony began the celebration, with a special performance by [Perkett Nagam] and Mya Grant, followed by a speech by Deputy Mayor Sedon.  The parade then commenced throughout the historic Central Business District (CBD).  The crowds along the route were amazing.  Mayor Knudsen congratulated all Ridgewood elementary schools for their floats, each reflecting the 2022 theme of “Let Freedom Ring.”  After the parade, the Fire Department hosted the Annual Fire Department Awards for parade entries.  Mayor Knudsen congratulated Saddle River and Waldwick for winning the Ladder Truck and Engine Awards and Ho-Ho-Kus for Best Antique Fire Apparatus.  She thanked Fire Chief John Judge and everyone for a fun event.  There was great music in the evening on July 4^th, including music by The Nines, Stilettos and the Dads Night Band. 

 

Mayor Knudsen mentioned the impromptu Color Guard which was formed, which stood by as Grace Sullivan sang the National Anthem, followed by the spectacular Grucci fireworks display.  She thanked all those who participated, volunteered and donated, and gave special thanks to Lee Gilsenens, Skylar Sattiel, Chris Ramundi, and Tara Masterson.  Lastly, Mayor Knudsen thanked all Village staff, including Ms. Mailander and the first responders, who were available throughout the day.

 

Mayor Knudsen reminded everyone to check their calendars for Planning Board meeting days.  In two weeks, on July 19, 2022, the Redevelopment Plan will be on the agenda for discussion.  The Master Plan review may also be heard on that date, but this is not confirmed as of this date. Councilwoman Reynolds remarked that the Open Space Element of the Master Plan cannot be heard on July 19. Mayor Knudsen indicated that the Master Plan Committee wants to move forward with discussions.

 

5.         DISCUSSION

 

            A.        RIDGEWOOD WATER

 

1.         AWARD CONTRACT – WATER BILLING AND DATA COLLECTION

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract for water billing and data collection processing services.  On June 1, 2022, bids were received for the remainder of 2022 and the years 2023 and 2024.  One bid was picked up and one bid was received.  Computil, Inc., of Shelton, CT, was the sole bidder for this service.  Based on their performance during their previous contract, it is recommended that the Village award the bid of a three-year contract to Computil, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $320,096.00 per year.  Funds are budgeted in the 2022 Operating Budget.  The prior contract with Computil for the years 2017 through 2022 carried an annual fee of $237,395.00, a difference of $82,700.00.  The increased cost is the result of increases in postage and operational costs.  Changes will be month to month, based upon the number of customers enrolled in paperless billing versus billing through the mail, and custom programming in any given month, which may not be needed every month.  That is the reason why the contract is in an amount “not to exceed” $320,096.00.

 

Councilwoman Perron asked if most customers paid their bill online.  She also asked if it would be beneficial to the Village if more people paid online automatically.  Jill Fasano of Ridgewood Water said that she was not sure of how many customers pay their water bills online, but she will research this and furnish the information to the Village Council.  She said that it would be a huge benefit to Ridgewood to have more people pay their bills online.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds remarked that it was her understanding that Ridgewood Water was going to handle its own billing in-house, once the new headquarters was completed on Maple Avenue.  Ms. Fasano replied that all of the billing is going to be outsourced.

 

2.         AWARD SOLE SOURCE CONTRACT – GIS SOFTWARE SUPPORT

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the award of a Sole Source contract for Ridgewood Water for GIS software support and upgrades for the Village of Ridgewood and Ridgewood Water.  There is a proposal from Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI), which is the sole supplier of this software support.  The agreement will be for a three-year period, awarded annually through December 31, 2025.  The total contract price of $82,500.00 is billed in increments of $27,500.00 per year and is split between the Village of Ridgewood and Ridgewood Water ($13,750.00 each).  Funding is in the Water Utility Operating Budget and General Operating Budget.

 

3.         AWARD PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CONTRACT – RAW WATER MAINS

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the awarding of a professional services contract for raw water mains for Ridgewood Water.  There is a proposal from Mott MacDonald to provide professional engineering services to the Village of Ridgewood for the design, permitting, bidding and construction phase engineering services for the Raw Water Mains Phase 1.  This project consists of installing approximately 55,000 feet of new ductile iron raw water transmission mains to convey water to four new centralized PFAS treatment facilities:  Ames, Wortendyke, Cedar Hill and Prospect.  The new mains will connect 14 wells to the new facilities.  These improvements will complete a major step in providing PFAS-free water into the Ridgewood Water distribution system.  It is recommended that this contract be awarded to Mott MacDonald of Iselin, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $1,068,350.  Funding is contained in the Ridgewood Water Capital Budget.  All required forms have been received by the Village Clerk’s Office.

 

Councilwoman Perron clarified that Mott MacDonald will provide the design, permitting, bidding and supervision of the construction, but there will still be another bid going out for the actual construction labor.  This contract does not include labor.  This was corroborated by Ms. Mailander.  Councilwoman Perron said that none of this work would be necessary were it not for the problems with PFAS in the water.  She mentioned that there is ongoing litigation against the manufacturers of the PFAS chemicals by the Village of Ridgewood to recover some of these costs.  This was corroborated by Ms. Fasano.

 

4.         AWARD STATE COOPERATIVE CONTRACT – TV MONITORS FOR NEW SCADA ROOM

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract for eight TV monitors for the new Ridgewood Water facility SCADA room under the State of New Jersey Cooperative Purchasing System.  The monitors will be purchased under the Omnia Partners Co-Op, which expires on March 31, 2024, from B & H Photo/Video of New York, New York, in an amount not to exceed $30,386.88.  Funding is contained in the Water Operating Budget.

 

Mayor Knudsen asked what happened to the old monitors which were being used.  Dylan Hansen, Director of the IT Department, stated that there are currently three monitors at the Wortendyke facility.  Those monitors will be used at the new Ridgewood Water facility in the training room and for the break room.  There is a video wall containing TVs without a border, so all eight TVs can be utilized at the same time from one computer, or they can be split up into separate units.  These will monitor Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) activities, as well as the security system for each of the pumphouses.

 

5.         AWARD STATE COOPERATIVE CONTRACT – WATER QUALITY TESTING AND SUPPLIES

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract under the State of New Jersey Cooperative Purchasing Program to purchase water quality testing equipment and supplies.  These items are necessary to monitor and report levels of pH, phosphate and chlorine required for system operation.  It is recommended that the contract be awarded to Hach Company, of Loveland, Colorado, in an amount not to exceed $35,928.03.  Funding is in the Water Utility Operating Budget.

 

 

6.         AUTHORIZE CHANGE ORDER – ELEVATOR CONSTRUCTION AT NEW RIDGEWOOD WATER FACILITY

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the authorization of a Change Order for the construction of an elevator at the new Ridgewood Water facility.  Adamo Brothers Construction was awarded the project on May 12, 2021 in the amount of $2,363,400.00.  The elevator constructed in the new headquarters requires approval from the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA).  After contacting the DCA in November 2021, RSC Architects finally received a response from the CDA in June 2022 requesting that the new elevator include a sump pump and shaft ventilation.  This is required in order to obtain approval from DCA.  Change Order #4 for this project is in the amount of $18,800.26 to Adamo Brothers Construction of Ridgefield, New Jersey.  Funding for this project is in the Water Utility Operating Budget.

 

Mayor Knudsen thought that the original plans did not make provision for an elevator.  Ms. Mailander replied that the original plans did include a provision to have an elevator constructed.  Deputy Mayor Sedon replied that the sump pump should have be included in the original plans, since that is a standard component when an elevator is constructed.

 

7.         AUTHORIZE AGREEMENT WITH PSE&G – INSTALLATION OF ENERGY EFFICIENCY MEASURES

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the authorization of an agreement with Public Service Electric & Gas (PSE&G), as part of its New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) approved Clean Energy Future – Energy Efficiency Program.  PSE&G is offering Ridgewood Water an Energy Saver Program (Direct Install Program) based on a recent energy audit that was performed of existing lighting at 31 Ridgewood Water facilities.  PSE&G has provided a proposal for replacement of certain energy efficiency measures at each facility.  PSE&G’s contracted representative, Facility Solutions Group (FSG), has been the point of contact for this project.  The total project/replacement cost is $25,587.45, with PSE&G contributing 44% or $11,281.31 towards this total.  The cost to Ridgewood Water would be $14,306.14, with an estimated yearly cost savings on utility bills of $6,273.96.

 

Councilwoman Perron indicated that, based on the calculations, many kilowatt hours will be saved, thereby reducing the amount of CO₂ which will be emitted into the air by 800 pounds per year.  Ms. Fasano corroborated that this was correct.  Councilwoman Perron called this an “environmental win.”

 

8.         POLICY FOR THE ORDER OF BILLING CATEGORIES

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the policy of Ridgewood Water for the order of billing categories.  Ridgewood Water received payments from customers for several categories of billed items, including consumption, facilities fees, PFAS surcharges, returned check fees, Service Sentry, and final read fees.  Ridgewood Water has been following a policy of how payments are applied (in which order).  The sequential order of categories to which payments are applied require Village Council approval.  For example, if a partial payment is made, the payment will first be applied to the oldest balance or delinquency, if any, then to interest, fees (such as final read fee or returned check fee), and principal (consumption, facilities fees, Service Sentry, tax, and PFAS surcharge).  This resolution will delineate in which order the payments will be applied.

 

            B.        PARKING

 

                        1.         EXTENSION OF GRAB AND GO PARKING SPACES

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the extension of Grab and Go parking spaces.  The Grab and Go parking spaces were previously extended to July 31, 2022.  The shared loading zones and additional 15-minute metered spaces will probably be introduced in August, with final adoption in September, becoming effective in early October.  At this time, the Village Council must decide whether or not to extend the Grab and Go parking spaces to the end of September.  If they are not extended, those spaces will revert to three-hour timed spaces on the kiosk until such time as the other ordinance is adopted and becomes effective, at which time some of those spaces will become 15-minute metered spaces and some will become part of shared loading zones.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds asked if the new ordinance could be adopted any faster than the end of September.  Ms. Mailander explained the procedure for adopting a new ordinance:  one month to introduce, public hearing the next month, then 20 days until it becomes effective.  Mayor Knudsen thought that there was little interest by business owners to sponsor the Grab and Go spaces.  Therefore, the Village Councilmembers would need to know whether or not these spaces would be paid for, before extending them. 

 

Councilwoman Perron said that it was her understanding that the sponsors will pay until the shared loading zone program becomes effective.  However, she said that it was difficult for sponsors to pay twice (first through July 31, 2022 and then again for a short period of time).  The sponsors are “good for the money” for both periods of time.  After discussion, it was decided to extend the Grab and Go parking spaces until September 30, 2022.  The spaces cost $250.00 per month.  Ms. Mailander indicated that she would reach out to the sponsors to advise them of the extension.

 

C.        BUDGET

 

1.         AUTHORIZE EXECUTION OF AGREEMENT – RIDGEWOOD BOARD OF EDUCATION – LIGHTNING DETECTION SYSTEM

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to authorizing the execution of an Agreement with the Ridgewood Board of Education for the Lightning Detection System.  Office of Emergency Management (OEM) Coordinator, Brian Pullman, has been in negotiations with the Ridgewood Broad of Education about an agreement to share costs of the hardware, maintenance and software subscription for the Lightning Detection System.  The Board of Education is willing to pay the bill and then invoice the Village for its 50% share.  A maintenance contract is also being added to the current subscription costs (five-year contract payable each year).  The cost per year is $13,639.00.  The Village and the Ridgewood Board of Education will have a written Agreement to state how any related costs incurred will be shared.  A resolution will be necessary to authorize the execution of the Agreement.  Matt Rogers, Village Attorney, will provide the Agreement and appropriate resolution.

 

2.         AWARD CONTRACT YEAR TWO – INFRARED ASPHALT SURFACE AND SIDEWALK REPAIR

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the awarding of the second year of a two-year contract for infrared asphalt surface and sidewalk repair.  This project was bid and awarded last year to J. Fletcher Creamer and Son, Inc., of Hackensack, New Jersey.  This includes repair and restoration of sidewalk slabs, driveway aprons, patching of trenches with stabilized asphalt mix, and concrete curbs.  The intent of this contract is to have a means available to restore Village streets to new condition after an excavation has been performed.  The bid language allowed the contract to be renewed for a second year, with no change in prices, upon mutual consent of both parties.  This has been agreed to by the Village and J. Fletcher Creamer.  It is recommended that year two of this two-year contract be awarded to J. Fletcher Creamer and Son, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $250,000.00.  Funding is in the Operating Budget.

 

3.         AWARD SOLE SOURCE CONTRACT – SCADA SYSTEM UPGRADES – WPCF

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the awarding of a Sole Source Contract for SCADA system upgrades for the Water Pollution Control Facility (WPCF).  The WPCF has been working with Emerson Process Management of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on the upgrade of their SCADA system, which is used to operate the wastewater treatment plant.  The current system is almost 20 years old, installed as part of the last plant upgrade in 2005, and is failing.  Ridgewood Water also uses Emerson equipment, so when the WPCF has a question, staff of Ridgewood Water may be able to assist.  The original amount was quoted in March 2021, and the updated amount is not to exceed $157,713.00 for Phase 2 work at the WPCF.  Funding is available in the Capital Budget.

 

Councilwoman Perron asked what was done during Phase 1.  Ms. Mailander replied that Phase 1 work included the beginning of the SCADA upgrades.  She will find out what work was done during Phase 1 and report back to Councilwoman Perron.

 

4.         AWARD STATE COOPERATIVE CONTRACT – SOFTWARE FOR SECURITY SYSTEM

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract under the National Cooperative Purchasing Alliance for security system software.  This is to renew the licensing and service contract for Genetec.  This is the software used for all of the Village Access Control and Camera Security systems controlled by the Ridgewood Police.  This represents a separate purchase than that of the Secure Watch Service Contract.  The contract is for yearly licensing, minor and major software upgrades, and telephone support from Genetec.  It is recommended that the contract be renewed through Secure Watch 24 of Moonachie, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $6,549.79.  Funding is available in the Police Operating Budget.

 

5.         ADDITIONAL AWARD – PAINTING VILLAGE HALL

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to an additional award for painting services at Village Hall.  A contract was previously awarded, through the Bergen County Cooperative Purchasing Program, to A.N.A. Painting Corp. of Hackensack, New Jersey, to perform work on the west façade and columns of Village Hall, as well as the flagpole.  They did an excellent job and completed the work in time for the July 4^th activities.  The façade of the old portion of Village Hall needs to be painted and restored, since it is faded, chipping and unattractive, and the crown molding that supports a portion of the roof that overhangs the exterior wall is also in need of repair.  It is recommended that a contract for additional painting services be awarded to A.N.A. Painting in an amount not to exceed $34,463.25.  Funding is in the General Capital Budget.  Councilman Perron asked for clarification of which portions of the building will be painted, and Ms. Mailander indicated that she will clarify this and let her know.

 

6.         ADDITIONAL AWARD – WHEEL LOADER – WPC

 

Ms. Mailander explained that, last year, the Village awarded a contract for a Wacker Rubber Tire Front End Loader for $58,611.80 through Sourcewell Cooperative Purchasing.  The vehicle has finally arrived, one year later, at the dealer.  However, the cost for this front end loader has increased by $6,322.68.  In addition, a 48-inch front end bucket for ice and snow removal is also needed at a cost of $2,840.00.  It is requested that a resolution be approved to award the ordered machine’s cost increase, as well as to purchase the 48-inch front end bucket.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds asked whether or not the vendor guarantees the price at the time of purchase.  Ms. Mailander explained that the Sourcewell contract expired while they were waiting for the truck to be delivered.  Under the new Sourcewell contract, the bid price from Gamka Sales Co., Inc., of Edison, New Jersey was higher.  She added that this is also as a result of the supply chain issues faced nationwide since the pandemic.

 

Councilwoman Perron asked if this machine would only be used to clear the sidewalks at the Water Pollution Control Facility or whether it would also be used elsewhere.  Ms. Mailander said that it will primarily be used at the WPCF, and the Village owns other vehicles to do the sidewalks around Village Hall and other buildings.  If possible, the new machine will be used in areas other than the WPCF.

 

7.         AUTHORIZE CHANGE ORDER – TAXI STAND GUTTER REPAIR

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the authorization of a Change Order to repair the taxi stand gutter.  A contract had been previously awarded to Tri-Plex Industries of South Amboy, New Jersey, to repair the damaged column at the taxi stand as the result of a motor vehicle accident, and they did an excellent job.  Since this accident, the copper gutter on the lower roof line has been damaged by several hits from wayward trucks.  The gutter is crinkled and now leaks, which may cause an icing issue in the winter.  It is recommended that Change Order #1 be approved for additional work to be performed by Tri-Plex Industries, in an amount not to exceed $4,816.04, to repair the copper gutter.  Funding is in the Capital Budget.

 

Mayor Knudsen asked how trucks could possibly damage the gutter.  Ms. Mailander replied that the trucks probably get too close to the building while backing up.  She said that the new bollards will prevent the trucks from getting too close to the building.  Councilwoman Reynolds asked if there were any cameras in that area which may have captured a truck hitting the gutter.  Ms. Mailander replied that she was unsure whether or not there were cameras in that area.  Councilman Vagianos added that not all truck drivers are as “gifted” as others when it comes to backing up a truck.  Mayor Knudsen asked why trucks would be backing up in this location, and Ms. Mailander replied that the trucks use this area as a loading zone and that is the reason why the bollards are going to be installed.

 

8.         AUTHORIZE CHANGE ORDER – TREE REMOVALS

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the authorization of Change Order #1 for tree removals in various locations in Ridgewood.  A contract was awarded to Dujets Tree Experts of Woodland Park, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $179,450.00.  Dujets is currently working on the tree removals indicated in the bid.  Since the bid was advertised, five additional locations have been identified with trees that need to be removed.  Most of these trees are very difficult and will require a crane.  It is recommended that Change Order #1 be authorized to Dujets Tree Experts in an amount not to exceed $32,000.00 so that these additional trees may be removed.  Funding is in the Capital Budget.

 

9.         AUTHORIZE REBID – CROSSING GUARD SERVICES

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that, every couple of years, a bid is sent out for crossing guard services. None were received the first time the bid was sent out.  The bid was sent out again, with slightly changed specifications, and the packets must be received by the end of July.  She hopes that some bids will be received and awarded at the August meeting, in time for the beginning of school.

 

10.       AUTHORIZE MUNICIPAL AID GRANT APPLICATION – PAVING NORTH MONROE

 

Ms. Mailander explained that the Engineering Division has submitted the 2023 New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) Municipal Aid Grant application for paving the north half of North Monroe Street, from West Glen Avenue to the Borough of Waldwick.  Part of the grant application process is that a resolution must be approved by the governing body of the municipality submitting the application.   This grant application is submitted every year.

 

11.       AUTHORIZE CHANGE ORDER – PSE&G ENERGY SAVER PROGRAM INSTALLATION

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the authorization of a Change Order and Amendment regarding the PSE&G Energy Saver Program (Direct Install Program) for the Village of Ridgewood.  An energy audit was performed and a replacement program and agreement were approved by Resolution No. 22-132.  A subsequent site inspection was performed prior to commencing work and there were additional energy efficient measures found.  PSE&G has since provided a revised proposal and Change Order and Amendment for replacement of certain energy efficiency measures.  The original total project/replacement cost was $146,586.56, with PSE&G contributing 77% or $113,270.16 towards this total.  The cost to the Village of Ridgewood was originally to be $33,316.40, with an estimated net monthly savings for the first five years of $1,961.84.  The revised total project/replacement cost is $165,907.49, with PSE&G contributing 75% or $123,931.48 towards this total.  The cost to the Village of Ridgewood would be $41,976.01.  The monthly energy savings is now estimated to be $2,738.59 and the monthly cost will be $699.60 (five years at 0% interest), with a net monthly savings for the first five years of $2,038.99.  The Village Hall will receive new LED lighting, and new HVAC equipment will be installed at other Village-owned buildings.

 

Mayor Knudsen asked why PSE&G is paying 75% of the cost for Village Hall and only 44% for Ridgewood Water.  Ms. Fasano replied that PSE&G pays a higher percentage on the HVAC equipment.  Since the proposal from PSE&G for Ridgewood Water only includes lighting, there is a decreased percentage paid by PSE&G.  Everyone thanked Ms. Fasano for her assistance.

 

12.       GARBAGE CONTAINERS FOR CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the replacement of garbage containers for the CBD.  There were originally heavy concrete receptacles into which garbage cans were placed.  Thereafter, these were changed to more lightweight, A-frame garbage containers which contained clear plastic bags.  The clear bags were then changed to black plastic bags. The old receptacles were extremely heavy, not easily moved, and had a small opening on top, making it difficult to place trash in it.  The current trashcans are clear and the trash inside was visible to everyone, including those dining outside, which is why they were changed to black bags.

 

The Police Department has recommended two suitable replacement options.  One is a blast resistant trash receptacle (BRTR), which is used to protect people by minimizing the impact of any explosion.  These are currently used in train stations, airports, government buildings, and other areas for the purpose of eliminating or significantly reducing any injuries.  These bins need to be placed where they will be easily accessible to sanitation workers.  They are designed to not only be functional, but aesthetically pleasing as well.  The downside to these BRTRs is the cost of $1,000.00 to $3,000.00 per receptacle.  The Village will probably need to purchase about 100 receptacles.

 

The other possible replacement option is a non-blast resistant receptacle.  They are aesthetically pleasing and the cost per receptacle is between $500.00 and $1,500.00.  The Homeland Security-approved receptacles would better protect residents and visitors.

 

Mayor Knudsen thanked Ms. Mailander for replacing the clear bags with the black bags.   She personally feels as though that solved the issue of viewing unsightly garbage when the clear bags were used.  She added that the cost of these new receptacles is a lot of money to spend.  Councilwoman Reynolds agreed with Mayor Knudsen, saying that it didn’t make sense to spend $100,000.00 to $300,000.00 just to change the garbage cans. 

 

Councilman Vagianos also agreed, and stated that the intent of the clear bags originally was so that any explosive devices put into a trash receptacle could be easily viewed.  Deputy Mayor Sedon agreed, and he said that another reason they were replaced was because, if an explosive device were put into one of the concrete blocks, it would blow up and shatter the concrete in all directions, thereby injuring people with shrapnel-like pieces.  Councilman Vagianos said that the money spent to purchase the clear containers was not wasted, because it is safer to have them rather than the former concrete receptacles. 

 

Councilwoman Perron stated, however, that the current receptacles are not blast resistant and would not send an explosive blast upward the way the BRTRs would.  She said that she is willing to stay with the current receptacles for the time being, but stated that most of them are nearing the end of their life expectancy.  She wondered whether only a few new receptacles could be purchased at a time to minimize the impact of spending so much money at one time.  She has noticed that the lids are off of some of the current receptacles and some are covered with graffiti. 

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that the Village does not have to buy 100 of these receptacles right away.  Deputy Mayor Sedon suggested phasing in the purchase as a capital project and implementing it over the course of several years.  He said the most worn ones could be replaced first and a certain amount allocated in the budget each year for the purchase of more over time.  Councilwoman Perron said the BRTR receptacles are very modern looking and may be out of keeping with the aesthetics in the CBD.  She said that the non-BRTR receptacles were more in keeping with the character of the downtown area; however, she said that this defeats the safety issue.

 

Mayor Knudsen asked what the cost was, in 2016 or 2017, of the clear receptacles currently being used.  She is fine with using the black bags.  She thought that if any of the receptacles need to be replaced, the Village should purchase the same kind of clear receptacle.   They seem less intrusive with the black bags inside, are light, and are easily moved.

 

13.       KINGSBRIDGE LANE BRIDGE

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that the next item on the agenda for discussion pertains to the Kingsbridge Lane Bridge.  This was previously discussed at a Village Council meeting in June.  The Engineering Division is recommending the replacement of the bridge with a pre-fabricated pedestrian bridge and hiring a consultant for a design/build contract.  The plans will need to be submitted to the Bergen County Engineering and Planning Division for review and approval as East Saddle River Road on the east abutment is a County road.  The plans also need to be submitted to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) for permitting because the bridge extends over the Ho-Ho-Kus Brook.

 

Ms. Mailander stated that the cost estimate was $350,000.00 to $400,000.00 to complete this project.  It has been determined that there is presently $100,000.00 budgeted towards this project.  Ms. Mailander stated that there is not enough money at this time to complete the project as a design/build, unless the Village Councilmembers want to do a Bond Ordinance.  As was pointed out in June, Ms. Mailander stated that even if the project were started immediately, it would take two to three years before the project would be completed.  She mentioned that she occasionally receives calls or emails from residents who live in that area asking about the progress being made.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds asked if part of the $100,000.00 set aside for this project was used for the estimate from the engineer.  Ms. Mailander replied that the recommendation for the structure was done in-house by Chris Piersa, Principal Engineer.  Deputy Mayor Sedon suggested starting the permitting process at this time, given that it takes a while to get approvals from both Bergen County and NJDEP, and then allocate additional money for the bridge in the 2023 budget.  Councilman Vagianos stated that he agreed with Deputy Mayor Sedon. 

 

Mayor Knudsen said that if the bridge does need to be replaced, a resident mentioned to her that Bergen County has some pre-fabricated bridges available, although perhaps installed on a temporary basis.  Ms. Mailander said that she would reach out to the County to inquire.  Councilwoman Perron stated that, in a recent magazine, the League of Municipalities reviewed pre-fabricated bridges and are encouraging their use.  The bipartisan infrastructure law that was just passed has several grants available for building bridges.  She thought that perhaps this should be looked into by the Village.  Ms. Mailander said that she will inquire about this as well.

 

D.        POLICY

 

                        1.         WINDOW DISPLAYS FOR VACANT STOREFRONTS

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to window displays for vacant storefronts.  Mayor Knudsen submitted the proposed Ordinance to Matt Rogers, Village Attorney, for review and approval of the changes recently made.  One change designated a period of time during which storefront windows could be covered if there was ongoing construction inside the premises.  Mr. Rogers suggested that the wording in B, “Vacant or closed stores with blocked windows and unmaintained storefront window displays detract from commercial streetscapes” should be removed since this was more of a policy statement.  Section B should be renamed “Requirements” or something to that effect.

 

Councilwoman Perron mentioned that Councilman Vagianos had stated that some people use brown paper on their windows after a lease has been signed.  She suggested adding the wording “unless a lease has been signed” to the end of the sentence in A3.  She mentioned that the material that resembles wallpaper, used by some storefronts, would also be appropriate since it looks nice.  However, the code section 190-122 E (7), Window Displays, cited in B1 requires that any window display must be set a foot back from the window.  She is concerned that this code section would preclude that kind of “wallpaper” on a storefront window.  Councilwoman Perron stated that Mayor Knudsen had suggested removing the entire clause “consistent with window display requirements of 190-122 E. (7) Window Displays” from B1.  Mayor Knudsen agreed.

Councilwoman Perron said it had been agreed that the questions contained in the registration form were going to be converted into statements, and the property owners would agree to the statements at the bottom of the form.  She did not see those changes on the registration form. Mr. Rogers mentioned that changes to the registration form can be made separately from the ordinance.  Councilwoman Perron stated that while she is in favor of this ordinance, she is concerned that what the Village Councilmembers feel would be an attractive window display may not be agreeable to the property owners.  She asked if the Ridgewood Arts Council could work with the landlords to develop window displays.

 

Mayor Knudsen remarked that when she was Council Liaison to the Arts Council, they had reached out to landlords asking them if the Village could put up some window displays without the need to adopt an ordinance.  This suggestion was not well received, since there was no requirement that they do so.  The proposed ordinance can be submitted to the Spec (Review) Committee of the Planning Board, so that everyone is on the same page.  Mayor Knudsen said that they can certainly reach out to the Ridgewood Arts Council to ask for their assistance in this regard.  Mr. Rogers said that this would be outside of the ordinance as well. 

 

Ms. Mailander mentioned that if the proposed ordinance is being reviewed by the Planning Board, it must be stated in the ordinance.  Mayor Knudsen mentioned that perhaps it could just go to the Arts Council.  Mr. Rogers said that, with the form, a protocol is established for review of the registration form and the application stating what property owners wish to do with their storefronts.  If a particular committee or particular review process is going to be used, this has to be spelled out in the ordinance so that people are aware of the process.  There was further discussion about how perceived “art” varies from person to person.  Mayor Knudsen indicated that she would work with Councilwoman Perron to clean up the ordinance and then present it to Mr. Rogers for review.

 

                        2.         A-FRAME SIGNS IN THE CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT

 

Councilman Vagianos indicating that he was recusing himself from this discussion.

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to A-Frame signs in the CBD.  The Village currently has an ordinance for temporary, portable signs.  There are two styles:  one is an A-Frame sign, internally weighted, and the other is a springer sign with a heavy rubber base.  Both has overall dimensions of 24 inches x 36 inches.  When the ordinance was adopted, the Village preferred the rubber-based sign, as it was a nicer style and more appropriate for Ridgewood.  That style and type of sign is no longer being made. 

 

Ms. Mailander stated that the new style of sign being proposed is also internally weighted and has an area to write on of 24 inches x 36 inches, but the base makes the bottom slightly wider.  The Code Enforcement Officer has searched various websites for signs and cannot find the previous type of sign available for sale.  This new type of sign allows for marker/chalk writing, which would be more conducive to outdoor use.  Despite the fact that the new type of sign has slightly larger dimensions, it is a reasonable replacement for the previous type of sign.  The recommendation is to amend the ordinance to allow for the new type of sign.

 

Councilwoman Perron asked what materials comprise the new type of sign.  Ms. Mailander stated that she was not sure if it was wood or plastic.  Mayor Knudsen remarked that when she envisioned using these A-Frame signs, she thought of signs that had a vintage look to them, consistent with the historic business district.  She said that some of the signs really do not fit into the historic nature of the downtown area, and that these new signs are not that attractive.  She suggested that perhaps the members of CBDAC could do some research about what kinds of different signs are available.  She really likes the signs on which chalk can be used.

 

Ms. Mailander mentioned that there are certain businesses in the CBD that would like to use these signs but do not like the A-Frame type of sign and want a weighted type of sign.  It will take about two months and 20 days to introduce and adopt an ordinance regarding same.

 

Mayor Knudsen said that she and Councilwoman Perron can research what different kinds of signs are available.  Councilwoman Perron asked what company manufactured the current signs, and Ms. Mailander indicated that she would provide Councilwoman Perron with the link.  Mayor Knudsen suggested that color photos of the new signs be obtained to get a better idea of what they look like, rather than just viewing the black-and-white pictures.  Ms. Mailander mentioned that the signs look better in color.

 

E.        OPERATIONS

 

1.         ACCEPT DONATION – WIND SCULPTURE FOR CHILDREN’S SENSORY AND BUTTERFLY GARDEN

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to accepting the donation of a wind sculpture titled “Nebula” for the Children’s Sensory and Butterfly Garden at Lester Stable.  This is a donation from the Halaby family.  They do not have any pending applications before any boards or committees.

 

6.         REVIEW OF JULY 13, 2022 PUBLIC MEETING AGENDA

 

Ms. Mailander stated that there are no Proclamations on the agenda for the July 13, 2022 Public Meeting.  There are no Ordinances for introduction or adoption for Ridgewood Water.  Resolutions for Ridgewood Water include:  Award Contract – GIS Software Support; Title 59 Approval and Award of Contract  – Water Billing and Data Collection Services; Award Contract Under State Contract – TV Monitors for SCADA Room in Ridgewood Water Headquarters; Award Contract Under State Contract – Water Quality Testing Equipment and Supplies; Award Professional Services Contract – Engineering Services for Raw Water Mains, Phase 1; Award Professional Services Contract – Evaluation of Carr Water Treatment Plant; Authorize Change Order – Elevator Construction – Ridgewood Water Headquarters; Authorize Agreement with PSE&G – Energy Saver – Direct Install Program; Request Governor and NJ State Legislature to Commit Additional Funding to Water Infrastructure; and Approve Order of Billing Categories for Application of Payments to Ridgewood Water.

 

One Ordinance will be introduced:  Amend Chapter 190, Land Use and Development – Window Displays for Vacant Storefronts.  The Ordinance for Shared Loading Zones and 15 Minute Parking Meters will need to be introduced in August.  The Ordinance for Amending Chapter 190 – Land Use and Development, Temporary, Portable Signs, may or may not be heard.

 

Ordinances scheduled for Public Hearing include:  Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Time Limit Parking, Overtime Parking and Repeat Parking; and Bond Ordinance – Purchase of Recycling Truck.

 

Resolutions include:  Award Contract – Respirator Fit Tester – Health Department for Emergency Services; Award Contract – SCADA System Upgrade – Water Pollution Control Facility; Title 59 Approval and Award Contract – Infrared Asphalt Surface and Sidewalk Repair; Award Contract – Restoration and Staining of The Lester Stable; Award Contract – Repair of Copper Roof Gutter at the Taxi Stand; Award Contract Under Bergen County Contract – Painting of Village Hall Façade; Award Additional Funding under Sourcewell Contract for Rubber Tire Front End Loader and 48-Inch Bucket for the Water Pollution Control Facility; Award Contract Under National Cooperative Purchasing Alliance – Licensing Fees and Service for Security System Software; Authorize Additional Funding – Planning Consulting Services – Green Acres Diversion – Amendment to Recreation and Open Space Inventory; Authorize Change Order to Contract for Tree Removals in Various Locations; Authorize Credit Toward Significant Sewer Discharge Billing; Authorize Change Order and Revised Agreement with PSE&G – Energy Saver – Direct Install Program; Authorize Execution of Memorandum of Agreement with Bergen County for Lead Poisoning Services; Authorize Execution of Agreement – Shared Payment for Lightning Detection System (Ridgewood Board of Education); Authorize Submission of NJDOT Grant Application – Paving North Monroe Street, Phase 2; and Accept Donation – Wind Sculpture for Children’s Sensory and Butterfly Garden.

 

Ms. Mailander asked the Village Councilmembers if there was any item anyone wanted off of the consent agenda, and there were none.

 

 

 

7.         COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

Siobhan Crann Winograd, 274 Ivy Place, stated that in 2021, during the budget meetings, it became apparent to the public that there was a problem with the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) plan for the Schedler property.  There were some comments from the public that there was a need for clarity.  Ms. Winograd stated that she was promised a statement of clarity in December of 2021.  She was also given assurances that the Village website would be updated.  To date, neither has occurred.  In addition, Ms. Winograd mentioned that Ms. Mailander provided an eight-minute historical narrative, which has not yet been posted to the Village website.  She said that there has to be a “better way” to go about developing the Schedler property.  She said that children are displaced and getting hurt on other fields, since many of the fields are not being maintained properly for their intended usage.

 

Ms. Winograd also mentioned that the Village Council minutes are not updated as quickly as they should be, which is a source of confusion for the public.  The League of Women Voters wrote a letter stating that many minutes were past due on the Village website, making public information difficult to follow, sort of a “fishing expedition.”  When Ms. Winograd logged into the website for the historical statement, she was upset to see that the minutes hadn’t been published since mid-April 2022 and she cannot understand why they are not.  She also wondered why no minutes were approved at this evening’s meeting.  When she clicked on the tile reading “Agenda and Minutes,” it took her right to “Future Meetings” rather than to the agenda or minutes.  Ms. Winograd said that it does not feel good when her letters and letters from other residents go unanswered. She asked the Village Councilmembers to seriously consider all of her statements and to update the website. 

 

Boyd A. Loving, 342 South Irving Street, was speaking this evening about Graydon Pool.  He said that members of the public truly appreciate everything that the Village Council is doing to make Graydon better, just as they had appreciated the Village Council efforts in 2020 to keep Graydon Pool open during the pandemic.  He said that he and his grandson were at Graydon Pool today.  He remembered that Ms. Bigos and Mr. Diamond had stated that no one would be chased off of the beach after 6:00 A.M.  However, people commented this evening that they were chased off the beach at 6:00 A.M., despite comments from Ms. Bigos and Mr. Diamond that people would be allowed to remain on the beach until 7:00 A.M.  He would appreciate the Village Councilmembers looking into the matter so that there is no more confusion.  Mr. Loving is pleased that real-time Graydon Pool notifications will now be made through the Recycle Coach app.  He said that driving over to the pool to look at the flag or read the signs for updates is ridiculous.  He wondered why these updates couldn’t be posted to the Village website.

 

Mr. Loving next spoke about social media posts stating that the Village was searching for lifeguards.  He said that as he was sitting at this evening’s meeting, he scrolled back through Facebook on his phone and noticed only one ad dated March 17, 2022 on the Ridgewood Parks and Recreation page announcing the hiring of new lifeguards.  He said that perhaps there was some confusion by the staff as to what “social media” represents.  He said that maybe Ms. Mailander could work with Ms. Bigos to get a list of social media sites on which ads could be placed.  Mr. Loving said that the Ridgewood Blog would be one site, as well as the site administered by Ms. Winograd.  He said that there are two other Facebook pages on which postings could be listed.  He has not seen a lifeguard ad on any of these pages.

 

Mr. Loving mentioned that this is the third time he has requested that the ordinance regarding Graydon Park be straightened out and updated, so that residents can enjoy the beach during off-season and not be thrown off the beach by the police.

 

Mr. Loving remarked that the Village Councilmembers are being “raked over the coals” regarding the $18,000.00 Change Order for the sump pump that is required for the installation of the elevator at the new Ridgewood Water headquarters.  He couldn’t understand why a contractor doing business in the State of New Jersey, who builds municipal buildings, doesn’t know that a sump pump would be required.  He said that the contractor should have absorbed this cost himself, because he should have known that the sump pump would have been required, rather than the taxpayers of Ridgewood.  He cannot understand why the Village Council would approve this Change Order and not make the contractor responsible for that expense.

 

There were no further comments from the public.

 

Mayor Knudsen said that Graydon is indeed a park that is open off-season.  She was not sure whether any changes needed to be made to the ordinance.  Ms. Mailander indicated that she would review the ordinance to see if any changes need to be made. 

 

Mayor Knudsen also indicated that the Village Council should probably review the contract for the new Ridgewood Water headquarters regarding the Change Order for the sump pump.  She said that she would not know that a sump pump is normally installed at the bottom of an elevator shaft.  Deputy Mayor Sedon remarked that that was standard procedure. 

 

Mr. Rogers agreed, especially if it is a code requirement or an obligation that a contractor has with regard to the installation of an elevator and elevator shaft.  He said that perhaps a sump pump should have been included in the original quote.  If so, then there should not be a Change Order approved. He said that there may be a legal question as to whether or not the bid specified that such things, such as a sump pump, needed to be included on the contractor’s quote.  It was agreed that the original contract would be reviewed.

 

Councilwoman Perron asked why minutes are only approved at a Public Meeting.  Ms. Mailander indicated that minutes can only be approved at Public Meetings.  If they were approved at Work Sessions, every Work Session would have to break for a Special Public Meeting and a separate set of minutes would have to be prepared for that Special Public Meeting.

 

Mayor Knudsen remarked that the Village Council minutes are up to date, although they should be posted on the Village website but are not yet posted.  All approved minutes are available in the Village Clerk’s Office, as required, obtainable through an OPRA request.

 

7.         ADJOURNMENT

 

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Deputy Mayor Sedon, seconded by Councilwoman Reynolds, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Work Session was adjourned at 9:44 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 AUGUST 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 7:32 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act.  At roll call the following were present:  Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen.  Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; Eileen Young, Deputy Village Clerk; and Matthew 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 men and women serving our nation, our first responders, and in memory of Ridgewood resident, Avon Morgan, a Bergen County Assistant Prosecutor who passed away tragically this week.

 

2.         COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

Anne Burton Walsh, 112 South Irving Street, indicated that she wanted to speak about the issue of trees versus sidewalks.  She stated that everyone wants to maintain a network of safe sidewalks and preserve healthy mature shade trees. Homeowners already assume the cost of repairing sidewalks adjacent to their property.  In some cases, extra masonry work is needed to construct a sidewalk around a tree in order to preserve it or construct a ramp or bump-out which goes over tree roots in cases where the Village Arborist has determined that grinding the roots in order to level a sidewalk will kill or destabilize the tree.  However, many residents either cannot or will not pay for this extra work, since repairing a sidewalk is costly enough, in which case the tree must be removed at Village expense, even though the tree may be healthy.  This is causing the Village to spend taxpayer dollars to remove the tree, grind the stump, provide police oversight for safety, and plant a smaller tree.  By her calculations, Ms. Walsh indicated that the cost to the Village is much more than if a homeowner paid for extra masonry to go around a tree or over tree roots.  She said that one of her neighbors received a quote of $900.00 for constructing a cement ramp over the roots of their curbside tree on South Irving Street.

 

Ms. Walsh said that she wanted to request a moratorium on removing any healthy mature trees in the Village, where the fate of the tree depends upon the decision of the homeowner (whether or not to pay for extra masonry).  In addition, she requested that the Village Council pass a resolution that monies in the Capital Budget, which are allocated to cutting down and replanting trees, be used to preserve these trees instead.  A healthy mature tree provides shade and beauty, enhances property value, and reduces carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.  Ms. Walsh said that the onus of preserving such a tree should not be the responsibility of the homeowner but should instead be the responsibility of the Village.

 

Nancy Brennan Hill, 136 Doremus Avenue, echoed the comments made by Ms. Walsh.  She stated that the trees in Ridgewood are a Village asset and should be preserved by the Village, rather than leaving a tree’s fate to the decision of a homeowner.

 

Kathryn Schmidt, 123 South Irving Street, said that she loves trees and the sidewalks throughout the Village.  She mentioned how much she enjoys walking down a tree-lined street.  However, she indicated that mature shade trees are constantly uprooting sidewalks.  Homeowners have to decide whether they can afford to build the sidewalk around the tree or simply have the tree cut down.  She suggested that homeowners should look into different technologies which are available for sidewalk construction, such as rubberized sidewalks.  She mentioned that she has spoken with Mayor Knudsen in the past about this concept, which has been implemented in cities such as Charlotte and Kansas City in the United States and in Vancouver and Calgary, Canada. 

 

Ms. Schmidt indicated that she and her husband researched companies on the internet which perform such work, and unfortunately the only companies who do this type of work only accept “big jobs” and will not do small jobs.  However, as the shade trees continue to grow and uproot sidewalks, Ms. Schmidt said that she was hopeful that the Village could begin researching rubberized sidewalks to see how this can be implemented in the future on a larger scale.  She also mentioned that there could be an opportunity for Shared Services Agreements with other municipalities.  Ms. Schmidt also mentioned that the Village should mandate that homeowners consult with Village officials before commencing sidewalk repairs.

 

Boyd A. Loving, 342 South Irving Street, said that he was pleased to see a discussion about Smart Controllers on the agenda this evening.  As he stated at a previous meeting, it seems as though people who have Smart Controllers are entitled to water much more often than those who do not have these devices, which goes against the goal of water preservation.  While he is restricted to water on certain days and at certain hours, as most Ridgewood residents are, Mr. Loving stated that his neighbors with Smart Controllers seem to be watering their lawns at any time they want and for as long as they want. 

 

Mr. Loving stated that he appreciates the fact that Councilwoman Reynolds followed up on his comments and reached out to Ridgewood Water, whereby she found out that people with Smart Controllers installed are allowed to water up to 10 hours a day.  The features on these systems can be bypassed by homeowners, according to Mr. Loving.  He said that he doesn’t understand how this can possibly conserve water. In addition, he stated that enforcement of water conservation is difficult because staff is not aware of who has Smart Controllers installed and who does not.  Although homeowners who have Smart Controllers installed must register with Ridgewood Water and have a sign on their window indicating same, the current Water Conservation Ordinance does not address this issue at all.  Mr. Loving said that the only vague reference to Smart Controllers in the ordinance deals with whether or not Ridgewood Water can grant an exemption to people who have a Smart Controller installed.  The ordinance does not specify what the exemption is or specify the procedure for registering or displaying the permit.  Since these items are not contained in the ordinance, violators cannot be fined.

 

Regarding trees in Ridgewood which are being removed by Village staff due to sidewalk construction, Mr. Loving said he could not understand how this is happening.  He said that someone anonymously sent an email to the Engineering Department listing almost 200 addresses in Ridgewood where sidewalks were in need of repair or replacement.  Mr. Loving stated that Village officials “acted upon” an anonymous email, which started this whole cycle of sidewalk construction and tree removals.  It seems to Mr. Loving that this was all started by a contractor looking to make some money.  He wondered why the Village would “jump” on an anonymous email like that without doing a proper investigation of the origins of the email.  He said he doubted whether the email was sent by a resident who was walking around Ridgewood with their dog.

 

Steven (Stephan Gahadalini?) Giri Gridhar, 132 (Liberty?) South Irving Street, indicated that he was speaking this evening to support his neighbors on South Irving Street.  Several trees on that street are slated for removal.  He echoed the concerns of those who just spoke regarding the preservation of trees.  Some of these trees appear to be 50+ years old, and Mr. Gridhar said that the process to cut these trees down is “quite speedy and not transparent.”  He said that a 50+ year old tree cannot be easily replaced since it takes years to grow.  He stated that more time should be taken to investigate the removal of such trees and the costs associated with same.

 

Beth Gould Creller, 719 Belmont Road, indicated that she was speaking this evening as a representative of the EAGER (Encouraging Alternative Green Energy for Ridgewood) subcommittee of Green Ridgewood.  Ms. Creller indicated that the objective of the EAGER subcommittee is to purchase electricity that is generated by a higher percentage of renewably sourced energy than what Public Service Electric & Gas (PSE&G) currently offers most Ridgewood customers.  With the Municipal Energy Aggregation Program, the Village will be able to solicit bids from, and contract with, third party electricity suppliers in order to reduce the cost of electricity to Ridgewood residents.  Professional advice will be needed, since energy supply is such a complicated industry, to research “greener” sources of energy.  The Village and/or Ridgewood residents will not be required to pay such a consultant; however, Ms. Creller indicated that third party suppliers will “roll” that fee into the price which is ultimately decided.

 

Ms. Creller spoke about the proposals which have been received by the Village for the Energy Aggregation Program consultant, including Gabel Associates, Inc. She asked how quickly the Village Council could act (in accepting a bid) in order for this to be accomplished, since time is of the essence regarding energy pricing.  She wondered where Ridgewood would “sit” on the list of Gabel’s clients, whether Ridgewood would be given priority over other towns, or whether Ridgewood would have to join forces with other towns in order to obtain better pricing.  She spoke about another bidder, Good Energy LP, which states on page 25 of their proposal that they are in final negotiations for the development of an opt-in program for the generation of carbon offsets.  She said that this was supplemental to the aggregation and would be offered at no cost to participants in the program.  Ms. Creller indicated that many compelling points in the Good Energy LP bid are aligned with the strategic initiatives for sustainability set forth by the Green Team and included in the proposed Master Plan.

 

There were no further comments from the public. 

 

Mayor Knudsen stated that the anonymous email referred to by Mr. Loving should be investigated.  In addition, she wondered whether a “pause” could be placed on tree removals in the Village until this issue has been resolved, if trees are indeed being removed due to sidewalk construction. Ms. Mailander replied that the tree removals slated for South Irving Street are currently on pause.  She also indicated that she could issue an edict to the Shade Tree Department that any healthy trees scheduled for removal should not be removed (if grinding roots to accommodate sidewalk construction would destabilize the tree).  This edict would not apply to trees which definitely need to be removed (such as those that are dead or diseased).

 

Mayor Knudsen spoke about a possible pilot program for rubberized sidewalks in the Village.  Councilwoman Perron asked whether rubberized sidewalks were permeable and, if so, she would be in favor of such a pilot program since it would be beneficial for stormwater runoff.  Mayor Knudsen said that they had been researching this internally a while ago, perhaps in 2017, in certain areas where concrete sidewalks could not be constructed due to the landscape features.  She mentioned that this could be a good option in order to save some trees.  Councilwoman Perron asked Ms. Schmidt if she had any pictures of rubberized sidewalks.  Mayor Knudsen said that she was the one who had sent the pictures to Ms. Schmidt and that she (Mayor Knudsen) would send the pictures to all Village Councilmembers.

 

Councilman Vagianos stated that no one wants to see a healthy tree removed under any circumstances and, therefore, he is in favor of a temporary moratorium on the cutting down of trees until such time as the Engineering Department has a chance to look into the rubberized sidewalks and provide information to the Village Councilmembers regarding same.  In this way, they would be well informed and could discuss alternative ways to prevent trees from being removed in the event a homeowner does not want to or cannot pay for the extra masonry to erect a sidewalk around a tree or over a tree’s roots. 

 

Councilwoman Reynolds remarked that she drove down South Irving Street today and the sidewalks have already been removed and are roped off.  Therefore, some decisions must be made quickly before the start of school in September, since there are many children who traverse these sidewalks.  Mayor Knudsen stated that the Engineering Department is already looking into this (confirmed by Ms. Mailander).

 

3.         MANAGER’S REPORT

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that nominating packets for Ridgewood residents, who are registered voters and wish to run for and serve as a Councilmember on the Ridgewood Village Council, are available in the Village Clerk’s Office.  The deadline for filing completed nominating petitions is September 6, 2022.  This year, there are two positions up for election, with four-year terms, to serve on the nonpartisan Village Council.  These positions will be voted on at the November 8, 2022 Municipal Election during the General Election.  The newly elected Councilmembers will be sworn in and take office in January of 2023.

 

Current employment and volunteer opportunities are posted on the Village website at www.ridgewoodnj.net.  Green Ridgewood, Project Pride, and the Ridgewood Green Team Advisory Committee are currently looking for new members.  The deadline to apply for these positions is August 12, 2022.

 

Ms. Mailander asked everyone to please conserve water.  The warm weather and sparse rain have depleted water resources.  Firefighters need water in the event of an emergency.

 

Ms. Mailander gave updates on the Schedler property work and the Zabriskie-Schedler house.  The contractor for the fence berm, irrigation and trees should be resuming work by next week.  The Village has sent some revisions to the draft plan for the remainder of the property to the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) and is awaiting their comments and approval to move forward on another phase of the development of the property.  Contracts for the final phase of the restoration of the Zabriskie-Schedler house have been signed.  A pre-construction meeting was held last week with Ridgewood of Village staff, Connolly & Hickey (historical architects), and the contractor, and work should commence shortly.

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that she wanted to clear up some confusion which residents have about the hours of operation of Graydon Pool.  Graydon Pool will be open through Labor Day, following the current hours which are in place.  This information is also posted on the Village website.  Graydon Pool notifications are now generated through the Recycle Coach app.  Residents should “opt in” to receive these notifications from the app.  Ms. Mailander thanked Mayor Knudsen and the staff of the Parks and Recreation Department for their efforts in implementing this feature on the Recycle Coach app.

 

The movie “Sing 2” will be shown at Graydon Pool this Friday, August 5, 2022.  Admission is $5.00 per person (either cash or check).  The rain date is August 6, 2022.  The movie starts at dusk.  Everyone should bring a chair or blanket.  The Water’s Edge Café will be open until the movie starts. 

 

Additional lifeguards are still being sought for Graydon Pool. Tennis and pickleball memberships are available through CommunityPass.  Hours for both pickleball and tennis are from 8:00 A.M. to dusk.  A variety of Ridgewood mini-camps are taking place in August (sign up on CommunityPass or at The Stable).  These camps include Skateboard Summer Camp, Ultimate Frisbee, Digital Photography and Videography, and Garden Arts.

 

“Sidewalk Sale Days” in Ridgewood will be held on August 4, 5 and 6, 2022 from 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.  On August 6, 2022 from 10:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M., a mini “Touch a Truck” display will take place at Van Neste Square along the park side and also at the Train Station parking lot on the west side.  Residents of all ages can get a close-up look at Village trucks of all sizes.  Sidewalk chalk art activities will be held on Saturday, August 6^th, and there will be arts and crafts and musical entertainment as well.

 

Music in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square will be presented on Saturday and Sunday nights during the summer months.  The Ridgewood Guild will be showing two more free movies in the park.  On Wednesday, August 10, at 8:30 P.M., “Clueless” will be shown, and on Wednesday, August 24^th at 9:00 P.M., the movie “All About Eve” will be shown. 

 

The Ridgewood Guild sponsors “Music in the Night,” which will held at various locations throughout the Central Business District (CBD) on Friday nights through Labor Day.  The Ridgewood Guild also sponsors “Art in the Park.”  This will take place on Friday, August 5^th.  Pinot’s Palette provides the art, which is both for viewing and for sale.

 

The last performance at the Kasschau Memorial Shell will be held on August 4, 2022 at 8:30 P.M.  Shows are free to the public.  Individuals interested in attending this free performance should bring a chair or blanket with them.  The senior bus provided free transportation to five of the bandshell concerts held this summer on Tuesday nights.  On the first night, there were two riders on the bus, and on the last night there were seven riders.  It is hoped that the senior bus will be used next year for this purpose as well.

 

The Bergen County Utilities Authority (BCUA) will be holding a recycling event for mobile paper shredding until the truck is full, electronics and computers, and unwanted medication.  Commercial and business vehicles or waste are not permitted.  Proof of Bergen County residency is required.  The event will be held at Bergen Community College on Paramus Road in Paramus on August 6, 2022 from 9 A.M. to 2:00 P.M., rain or shine.

 

Ms. Mailander mentioned that there was a fire in one of the Village’s garbage trucks last week, due to a laptop computer being thrown into the general trash.  When the garbage truck tried to compact the trash in the truck, the computer caught on fire. Luckily, this was noticed immediately by the sanitation crew and the Fire Department was summoned to put out the fire.  The truck was fortunately not damaged and there were no injuries.  Ms. Mailander urged all residents to properly dispose of their electronics at the Recycling Center or at a BCUA event and not to put them in garbage containers for regular pickup.  This could have been a terrible disaster.

 

The Farmers Market is celebrating their 22^nd Anniversary.  They will be open from 8:30 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. on the west side of the Ridgewood Train Station parking lot.  The Farmers Market will be open on Sundays usually through October or early November.

 

Upcoming Village Council meetings are broadcast live from the Village Hall Courtroom, on the Village website, and on FIOS Channel 34.  Upcoming Village Council Work Sessions will be held on September 7 and September 28, 2022 at 7:30 P.M.  The next Public Meetings are scheduled for August 10 and September 14, 2022 at 8:00 P.M.

 

Mayor Knudsen thanked Johanna Lutrell for her quick action in reaching out to Recycle Coach technicians in order to add Graydon Pool notifications to the Recycle Coach app.

 

4.         COUNCIL REPORTS

 

Councilman Vagianos indicated that he met with the Stigma-Free Committee on July 19, 2022 and thanked everyone for attending during the hot summer.  He said that the members of this committee are very enthusiastic about the events they sponsor.  A Covid-19 booster shot event for children was held in June, in conjunction with “Music Under the Stars.”  In July, there was a “Balance and Thrive” event promoting good health for Ridgewood residents at the Ridgewood Library.  This latter program will again be held on November 15, 2022. 

 

The Health Department has applied for a new grant beginning in 2023 to be utilized to address emerging viruses.  Councilman Vagianos said that it seems a new virus is popping up each week.  The diseases to be addressed will be Lyme Disease, West Nile Virus, Hepatitis-B, Covid-19, and Monkey Pox.  In addition, Councilman Vagianos announced that the Health Department will begin receiving grants, which will continue for many years, as a result of the opioid settlement.  They will receive a $9,000.00 grant at the beginning, and it is anticipated that that amount will increase over time.

 

The Ridgewood Police Department is sponsoring a Food Truck and Bouncy House event on October 9, 2022 as a fundraiser for cancer research.  This will be held in the Graydon North parking lot.

 

On November 3, 2022 at 9:00 A.M., there will be a Senior Health and Wellness Fair.  Councilman Vagianos indicated that further details regarding this event can be found on the Ridgewood Health Department website.

 

Councilwoman Perron indicated that the Open Space Committee conducted another park walk, led by Fran Barto.  She gave a tour of Graydon Pool, which was very educational in terms of the pool’s history and its operations.  The next Open Space Park Walk is going to be held on September 24, 2022 at Pleasant Park, led by Jim Bossler.

 

The Central Business District Advisory Committee (CBDAC) met for the first time in person, since the Covid-19 pandemic started, via a hybrid meeting.  Their speaker was John Saraceno, a local developer, who presented the results of a survey conducted at two properties which he recently developed in Ridgewood:  NoMa and The Benjamin.  Councilwoman Perron said that the results were interesting:  75% of the respondents said that they eat and shop in downtown Ridgewood.  The members of CBDAC also discussed the suggestion made by the Chamber of Commerce that it would be helpful in assessing the pros and cons of pedestrian plazas by analyzing parking data from 2022 and 2021.  The members of CBDAC thought it would be helpful to also analyze data from 2019 and 2020.  Councilwoman Perron feels that doing such an analysis on the parking data would be very helpful.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds indicated that the Planning Board met on July 19, 2022, which was an organizational meeting.  Steve Wellinghorst was appointed as their Board Attorney.  Board members were sworn in to continue their terms:  Mayor Knudsen, Class I; John Young, Class II, Councilwoman Reynolds, Class III; James Van Goor, Class IV; Richard Joel, Class IV (who is also the Chairman); Melanie Hooban, Class IV; and Igor Lyubarskiy, Alternate #1.  The Conflict Planner, Beth McManus, was in attendance at the meeting to discuss the potential plans for constructing affordable housing on the Valley Hospital property (once, and if, it is vacated).  This site has been designated as an Area in Need of Redevelopment by the Village of Ridgewood.  John Barry from Heyer Gruel (Village Planners) was in attendance at the meeting to review the draft of the Master Plan.  The previous Village Planner has retired.  The Public Meeting and vote for the Master Plan has been moved to September 20, 2022.  Councilwoman Reynolds encouraged everyone to attend.  The proposed Master Plan is being reviewed by the committee for typos and mistakes and should be posted shortly on the website.

 

The Project Pride Committee continues to give out the Sunflower Stake Awards to residents for beautiful landscaping and gardening in their front yards.  Every two weeks, six houses are chosen to receive the award.  Councilwoman Reynolds thanked everyone for their participation in this event.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds asked Ms. Mailander about the timeline during which the berm will be constructed on the Schedler property.  It was her understanding that the berm would be completed in June, although Ms. Mailander announced at this evening’s meeting that work will commence next week.  Ms. Mailander replied that the work was delayed.  The work needs to be completed by September 28, 2022 or there will be penalties assessed against the contractor.  Mayor Knudsen remarked that there was someone working on the property today.

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon indicated that he had nothing to report.

 

Mayor Knudsen indicated that the Library Board of Trustees met last week.  They continue to work on the details of the Pease Library lease.  They also discussed the option of the Ridgewood Library renovation project being done in stages, rather than all at once.  The members of the Library Board of Trustees are currently visiting different libraries in the area to observe renovations done at those sites, to learn how long the renovations took to be completed, and to learn how these libraries fared with doing the construction work in stages.  It is recognized that residents’ needs change over time, and the two most important renovations are the staircase on the main level (not user-friendly and not readily visible) and the Teen Room.

 

The Ridgewood Community Access Network (CAN) for the special needs community in Ridgewood also met last week.  The Access Weekend is being planned for October 7-9, 2022 (?).  A senior citizen event will be held to present special programming on current issues that many senior citizens grapple with, and there will be a children’s concert featuring Marlene [Pillow] on Saturday, October 10, 2022 (?).  There will also be a fashion show held in a hybrid format (Zoom and live).  The Community Fair will be held in the Ridgewood Library auditorium.  There will be a religious service held through the Friends to Friends Community Church on Prospect Street. Notices will be sent out shortly publicizing these events.  Mayor Knudsen encouraged everyone to attend.  She mentioned the new special needs housing, Ridgewood Commons, which has been recently constructed in partnership with United Way of Bergen County and Madeline Corporation.

 

Mayor Knudsen announced that she and Councilwoman Perron attended the ribbon-cutting of StretchLab at 204 East Ridgewood Avenue.  The trained flexologists there provide assisted stretching and flexibility training, which Mayor Knudsen indicated is very beneficial.  She mentioned that they have a MAPS (mobility assessment) machine which shows individuals where the “troubled areas” are on their body and how they can improve their overall mobility.  Councilwoman Perron remarked that stretching is great for relieving tension and improving productivity.  Mayor Knudsen encouraged everyone to visit StretchLab.  She remarked that there has been a record number of ribbon cuttings recently, which adds to the vibrancy of the Village’s historic Central Business District.

 

Mayor Knudsen indicated that she has received numerous complaints about the condition of the roadway on Linwood Avenue (a County road).  It is her understanding that Linwood Avenue is scheduled to be repaved by Bergen County.  She asked Ms. Mailander if she could reach out to the County to find out the timeframe for the repaving.  Ms. Mailander replied that she will notify everyone of the schedule once she has received it from the County.  Ms. Mailander mentioned that Franklin Avenue was supposed to be repaved this year, but the County has not yet responded to her follow-up calls.  Mayor Knudsen explained that there is a Shared Services Agreement with regard to the Franklin Avenue corridor repaving project

 

5.         DISCUSSION

 

            A.        RIDGEWOOD WATER

 

1.         WATER CONSERVATION ORDINANCE FOR SMART CONTROLLERS

 

Rich Calbi, Director of Ridgewood Water, indicated that he reviewed the comments made by the public at recent Village Council meetings regarding Water Conservation Ordinance No. 3588 (adopted in 2017) and the concerns regarding Smart Controllers.  Mr. Calbi said that there were originally four stages of water restrictions (Stages I through IV).  In past years, around April or May, Stage I restrictions would become effective, allowing for watering three days a week, and shortly thereafter, in June, the Village immediately advanced to Stage II restrictions, allowing for watering only twice a week.  It was ultimately decided in 2017 that Stage II restrictions would become permanently enforced year-round.  This would make it easier to make any changes to the ordinance in the future, although Mr. Calbi conceded that he was not sure if permanent conditions such as this were enforceable legally.

 

Mr. Calbi explained that, at that time, they studied a Sustainable New Jersey model ordinance that was prepared by the State of New Jersey and Rutgers University.  That model ordinance contained an outline of certain exemptions, one of which was the use of Smart Controllers for irrigation of lawns or plantings from midnight to 10:00 A.M.  Village Ordinance No. 3588 was modeled after this Sustainable New Jersey model ordinance.  Smart Controllers use less water than conventional in-ground sprinklers, which are allowed to be used from 3:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M.  The requirements surrounding Smart Controllers are not codified in the ordinance adopted in 2017.

 

Mr. Calbi indicated that some homeowners have been issued warnings and/or tickets because they were watering their lawns with Smart Controllers outside of the permitted hours.  Out of the 21,000+ accounts held by Ridgewood Water, 345 account holders have a Smart Controller permit (292 in the Village and the rest in the other three towns serviced by Ridgewood Water).  Homeowners must fill out paperwork and provide documentation to Ridgewood Water in order to get the permit. 

 

Once the permit has been issued, homeowners are given a blue placard with white printing to place in their front window or on a stick in their front yard, which alerts staff that these properties have Smart Controllers.  These permits must be recertified every year.  Mr. Calbi said that when a permit is issued, it is assumed that homeowners are “watering smart.”  The controllers are programmed to water on the basis of weather or soil conditions.  If homeowners are bypassing the Smart Controller system and decide to water every day, they are in violation of the ordinance.  Mr. Calbi indicated that they cannot totally control these actions by homeowners, but they do go around the Village to observe compliance.  He said that hundreds of summonses and tickets have been issued for violations.

 

Mr. Calbi agreed that some changes need to be made to the Water Conservation Ordinance.  He said that Ridgewood Water has tried to be as flexible as possible with homeowners since 2017.  The State of New Jersey required that Smart Controllers be programmed by a State-certified programmer, although it was discovered that there was only one such technician in the entire state in 2017.  Realizing that this would place an undue burden on homeowners and make it impossible for them to comply with this requirement, Ridgewood Water has allowed homeowners to purchase Smart Controllers and install and program the devices themselves.  Smart Controllers may be purchased for $200.00 or less.  Smart Controllers in production today have modules which can connect to Wi-Fi and access weather forecasts.  With the recent dry and hot weather, these Smart Controllers have been watering more.  Mr. Calbi conceded that this may not be entirely fair to people who do not own Smart Controllers, and therefore the ordinance could be amended to make watering by Smart Controllers more restrictive.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds asked Mr. Calbi what the Smart Controller permit recertification entailed.  Mr. Calbi said that every spring, an email is sent out to all Smart Controller permit holders with a recertification form, which contains a statement, “Thank you for watering smart. The 2021 conservation program was successful as a result of your water saving commitment.  The 2021 summer demand was sustainable for Ridgewood Water operations.  To ensure that your water saving commitment continues, please complete and return the form below to recertify your system for 2022.  By signing below, I attest that my Smart Controller system has not changed and agree to the Smart Controller permit conditions and requirements for smart irrigation control and certify that my system has been programmed based on proper sprinkler head data, soil conditions, plant and irrigation data.”  Mr. Calbi reiterated that it is difficult to enforce the water restrictions, despite homeowner attestations on this form.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds said that it was her understanding that it is recommended that lawns receive one to two inches of water a week.  Mr. Calbi replied that it is one inch of water per week.  Councilwoman Reynolds asked Mr. Calbi if he knew how much water a lawn would receive if it was watered once or twice a week with an underground sprinkler.  Mr. Calbi replied that the amount varies, depending upon the type of sprinkler head used.  Each type of sprinkler head releases a certain flow.  However, the flow from each sprinkler head is supposed to be regulated by the Smart Controller.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds said that, to be fair to all residents, homeowners with Smart Controllers need to abide by the same restrictions as homeowners who do not own such devices (3:00 A.M. to 7:00 A.M.), perhaps adding one or two extra days for those with Smart Controllers, with no watering on Mondays, Thursdays or Fridays.  Councilwoman Perron agreed with Councilwoman Reynolds.  She added that the amendment to the Water Conservation Ordinance should include a provision that the Smart Controller placard must be visible from the street.  Councilwoman Perron added that she felt more enforcement was necessary. 

 

Mr. Calbi indicated that enforcement is generally performed at night, so that his staff may perform their regular responsibilities during the day, unless a staff member notices some watering going on during the day while driving around.  He said that employees are paid extra to perform nightly enforcement; there is no person strictly dedicated to enforcement detail.  He said that most violations occur at night.

 

Councilman Vagianos asked Mr. Calbi what a Smart Controller is and how it saves water.  Mr. Calbi stated that there are many controllers in the market which can be controlled with a cell phone, which is not necessarily a “Smart” controller.  A true “Smart Controller” is one which is controlled by “other intelligence” with programmed weather data (whether gleaned from the internet or programmed on a daily basis) and a soil sensor (probe in ground which sends information to the controller of the wet or dry soil condition).  The controllers are programmed based on different zones, depending on the amount of shade or sun a portion of lawn receives per day.  An efficient Smart Controller contains all of these features, but does not necessarily have to have all of these features, since the extra modules cost more.  The most important feature is the weather control.

 

Councilman Vagianos asked how a Smart Controller saves water.  Mr. Calbi said that when a Smart Controller is programmed correctly, it activates only when the soil is dry.  He said he would have to do some research, but according to the State of New Jersey and Rutgers University, Smart Controllers are supposed to conserve water over time.  He will try to get further information to share with the Village Councilmembers.  When questioned by Councilman Vagianos whether or not a Smart Controller would activate every day if the temperature were 100 degrees for several days, Mr. Calbi replied that that was a possibility.  Councilman Vagianos couldn’t understand how this could be “water efficient” since the Smart Controllers would activate every day during a very dry spell, such as what has been experienced in Ridgewood over the past few weeks, unless the controllers compensate for when there has been rain.  Mr. Calbi replied that it was his understanding that the controllers save water over time, but indicated that he would research this further and get back to the Village Councilmembers.

 

Councilwoman Perron added that, in theory, Smart Controllers prevent overwatering.  However, Councilwoman Reynolds stated that homeowners can override the programming of Smart Controllers so that they can basically water every day.

 

Mayor Knudsen stated that the reasoning behind conserving water is to ensure that water pressure and capacity would be sufficient in case of an emergency, such as a fire.  She said that if every Ridgewood resident were to install Smart Controllers, water capacity and water pressure would be quickly depleted.  Mayor Knudsen agreed with Councilwomen Reynolds and Perron that water restrictions should be applied equally to everyone served by Ridgewood Water.

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon asked Mr. Calbi whether he could obtain a sample of properties outfitted with Smart Controllers (from permit applications) and examine the water usage on these accounts both before and after the installation of the Smart Controller devices.  Mr. Calbi replied that this could certainly be accomplished.  Such an analysis could perhaps also reveal whether or not any homeowners have overridden the programming of their Smart Controllers. 

 

Councilwoman Perron said that she was also interested in learning whether the ordinance has resulted in water conservation since 2017.  Mr. Calbi stated that since the ordinance was enacted in 2017, the Village has not had to go beyond Stage II water restrictions.  He noted that prior to 2017, the Village had been compelled to declare either Stage III or Stage IV water restrictions.  He estimated that approximately 50% of Ridgewood Water customers adhere to the water restrictions.  When staff find violations during the night, they can only issue warnings to customers who do not reside in Ridgewood, since they are not permitted to issue tickets to out-of-town homeowners serviced by Ridgewood Water.  However, the addresses where violations occur are brought to the attention of town administrators for appropriate action.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds asked Mr. Calbi if he knew what percentage of people appear in court to contest a ticket for a water violation.  Mr. Calbi said that he could find out that information for her.  The initial summons does not require a court appearance and the fine is $85.00.  The next violation requires a court appearance.  He mentioned that some homeowners have received a multitude of summonses every year for violations.

 

Mayor Knudsen stated that she thought Deputy Mayor Sedon’s idea was a good one and agreed with Councilwoman Reynolds’ comments.  Councilwoman Reynolds added that the time restrictions should also be contained in the ordinance.  Mr. Calbi said that the days and times when homeowners can water could be codified in the ordinance.  Councilman Vagianos indicated that he would like to receive more information before any changes are made in the ordinance.  It was decided that this matter would be discussed at a future Village Council meeting once the relevant information has been obtained and furnished to the Village Councilmembers by Mr. Calbi.

 

On a different topic, Mr. Calbi indicated that, in the past, the Village totally lost a garbage truck due to electronics being tossed in the regular garbage pickup, the same thing which caused the recent fire in a Village garbage truck.  Electronics such as laptops, computers, cell phones, tablets, and lawnmowers should not be placed in regular garbage containers.  Mr. Calbi added that some people leave fuel in devices such as lawnmowers, which should be emptied before being put out for bulk pickup.

 

Mayor Knudsen asked what a person would be fined if they deliberately placed an electronic device in the regular garbage rather than taking it for proper disposal at the Recycling Center.  Mr. Calbi said that it was very difficult to pinpoint who the offender actually was; however, in the prior garbage truck fire, they were able to identify the offender and successfully file a claim through their insurance carrier.  The resident was also issued summonses, but Mr. Calbi said that he was unaware of what fines were levied on the homeowner.

 

 B.       PARKING

 

1.         ORDINANCE TO RESTRICT PARKING – MORNINGSIDE ROAD AND CALIFORNIA STREET

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item deals with an ordinance to restrict parking at the intersection of California Street and Morningside Road, which is in the area of Willard School.  When vehicles are parked along the east curb area of the northbound direction of Morningside Road as it approaches California Street, those vehicles obstruct the sight lines of the crossing guard.  They also obstruct the vision of drivers trying to make a left turn from California Street onto Morningside Road.  Mr. Rutishauser has recommended restricting parking along the north bound section of Morningside Road for the portion 120 feet south of the southerly curb line of California Street between the school inflow (8:00 A.M. to 9:00 A.M.) and outflow (2:30 P.M. to 3:30 P.M.) times during the school year only (September 1 to June 30).  The ordinance will assist in creating better visibility for students entering and exiting Willard School.

 

Mayor Knudsen indicated that there had previously been discussions in February of this year regarding a survey being performed with neighbors living near the intersection of Hamilton Avenue and Morningside Road, with the goal of improving safety in that area.  Mayor Knudsen asked Ms. Mailander if she could follow up with Mr. Rutishauser on this issue.  Ms. Mailander replied that she would do so.

 

Councilwoman Perron indicated that this new restriction is not burdensome.  The 120 feet represents approximately one house property length from the corner.  She added that there are plenty of areas near the school where parents can drop off their children.  She thinks that this ordinance will provide a good safety measure.

 

Mayor Knudsen asked whether or not the impacted neighbors in the vicinity of the intersection of California Street and Morningside Road would be forewarned of this parking restriction.  She recalled that this notification procedure was enacted previously by the Mayor and Council.  Ms. Mailander replied that this was not usually done, but it would be done if requested specifically.  Mayor Knudsen said that she would like to see neighbors notified who reside within 200 feet of the impacted area, citing a previous change which was enacted without notification, which resulted in many complaints by neighbors who were unaware of the change.

 

Ms. Mailander said that the usual procedure is to introduce the ordinance and announce the public hearing on the ordinance, during which time neighbors will be given the opportunity to speak.  Mayor Knudsen indicated that, in the past, Mr. Rutishauser allowed residents to merely send in emails with their comments.  Ms. Mailander indicated that this could be done as well.

 

2.         HUDSON STREET PARKING GARAGE WAYFINDING SIGNS

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the Hudson Street Parking Garage Wayfinding Signs.  She said that the two signs on display were smaller than the prototype originally shown at a recent Village Council meeting.  She thanked Mayor Knudsen for her suggestions that the “P” be made large without the “arking” and the word “garage” in large letters under the “P” and arrow.  This will be clear to drivers who want to park in the parking garage rather than in a parking lot.  The Village Councilmembers viewed various color pictures contained in a packet supplied to them showing the various locations throughout the CBD where the signs would be placed (both the larger and smaller signs). 

 

Ms. Mailander thanked Dylan Hansen and Dave Hefferan from the Signal Department for taking the photographs on such a hot, sweltering day.  She pointed out that the arrows on the signs will differ.  Some will point straight forward, and some will point either to the right or left.  Ms. Mailander said that she would recommend the smaller of the two signs, as the larger ones may create too much “sign pollution.”

 

Councilwoman Reynolds stated that she felt the larger signs would be appropriate in certain areas.  She said that the larger signs were more visible.  Ms. Mailander indicated that a combination of both sizes could be used.  Councilman Vagianos said that most people don’t see signs and, while the smaller signs blend in nicely, they are not as visible as the larger signs.  He indicated that he likes the signs, both small and large.  He pointed out the two signs by Felina on Ridgewood Avenue and stated that he almost couldn’t see the smaller sign but that the larger one was very visible without being “garish” or overly large.  He said that the larger signs could be used on the major arteries and the smaller (secondary) signs on the side streets.  He said that everyone should keep in mind that the Hudson Street Parking Garage is nearly empty and “bleeding money.”  Therefore, people need to be aware of the existence of the parking garage.  Everyone was in agreement with using the signs in this manner, as suggested by Councilman Vagianos.

 

Councilman Vagianos asked if the marketing and advertising of the parking garage would also be taking place.  Ms. Mailander indicated that this matter would be brought back to the Village Council in September so that staff would have more time to research Google Ads and other marketing/advertising tools.  Councilwoman Perron mentioned that the IT Department also worked up the link for parking information, which was shared with the Chamber of Commerce, and their “hits” went up enormously.

 

3.         PARKING SPACES ON MAPLE AVENUE FOR NEW RIDGEWOOD WATER HEADQUARTERS

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that Christopher Rutishauser, Village Engineer, wrote two memos regarding the three parking spaces on North Maple Avenue in front of the new Ridgewood Water headquarters.  He has determined that there is ample room to accommodate these three parking spaces, as well as ample room for cars to pass when cars are parked on North Maple Avenue in front of Village Hall.  The entrance driveway for the new offices from North Maple Avenue to the rear of the Library parking lot will be made one way.  The building should hopefully be completed by mid-September 2022. 

 

It is recommended that these parking spaces (one of which will be a handicapped spot) and the one-way entrance be memorialized by an ordinance in order to allow enforcement, if necessary.  The parking spaces in front will be 30-minute spaces, Monday through Friday, 8:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M., except holidays.  This ordinance will be introduced next week if everyone is in agreement.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds asked if a person could park in one of those spaces after 4:30 P.M.  Ms. Mailander said that a person could park longer than 30 minutes after 4:30 P.M.

 

Councilwoman Perron said that when she looks at the diagram, there doesn’t seem to be enough space.  Councilwoman Reynolds agreed with Councilwoman Perron and stated that it seemed as though these parking spaces may present a visual “blockage” to drivers.  However, both Councilmembers said that they would defer to Mr. Rutishauser’s judgment.  Councilwoman Perron added that the opposite may be true, that it may present as a traffic calming measure.  Mr. Calbi agreed.  Councilwoman Reynolds mentioned that she was afraid drivers would not see pedestrians crossing in the adjacent crosswalk.  Mr. Calbi indicated that the parking spots are spaced legally far enough away from the crosswalk.  Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that that particular crosswalk has a blinking pedestrian crossing sign as well.

 

Councilman Vagianos asked how close these parking spaces were to the crosswalk.  Mr. Calbi said that he did not know, but that it was over 20 feet because there is the whole width of the adjacent driveway apron.  Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney, indicated that there is a certain legal distance that has to be maintained between on-street parking and a crosswalk.  Councilman Vagianos thought that the required distance was 50 feet.  Mr. Rogers remarked that he is sure Mr. Rutishauser would have taken the required distance into consideration when he did his field measurements.  Mayor Knudsen said that this plan has also been reviewed by the Planning Board, and it was acknowledged that there was sufficient space to create these parking spaces.

 

Ms. Mailander said that everyone’s concerns will be noted.

 

4.         PARKING REGULATIONS FOR MAIN PARKING LOT AT MUNICIPAL COMPLEX

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to changes to the parking regulations for the main parking lot at the Municipal Complex.  She stated that during the school year, the main parking lot is being used by students at Ridgewood High School to park their cars for the day.  They park there early in the morning and are there until late afternoon, around 4:00 P.M. or later, depending upon after school activities.  During the school year, activities at the Community Center and Ridgewood Library increase during the day, with exercise classes, knitting and painting classes, meditation, and other courses.  As a result, it becomes difficult for drivers to find parking spots that are available in the lot after 9:30 A.M., especially if the 12 or more parking spaces are being taken up by the students all day long.  The lot is also used by residents conducting business at Village Hall and by people utilizing the walking path (track) or playground.

 

It is recommended that an ordinance be adopted restricting the parking at the lot from 7:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M., limiting parking to those conducting business or working at Village Hall, patronizing or working at the Ridgewood Library, or physically utilizing the walking path or playground at Veterans Field. 

 

In the past, Ms. Mailander indicated that Ridgewood High School students parked their vehicles at either of the two parking lots near Graydon Pool, since the pool is closed by that time of year.  Flyers have been put onto the windshields of the students’ cars which are parked in the municipal lot, making them aware of the proper lots in which they should be parking.  However, some students continue to park in the municipal lot because it is closer to the high school.  Chief of Police Luthcke has indicated that if there were such an ordinance, it would be easier to convince the students to park where they are supposed to park, since the ordinance would allow summonses to be issued to offenders.  Warnings would initially be issued.  Additional signage could be erected setting forth the parking restriction hours.

 

Councilwoman Perron has also noticed students parking in the municipal lot, and she thanked Chief Luthcke for addressing this issue.  Councilman Vagianos asked how one would know whether or not a particular car belonged to a student.  Ms. Mailander replied that there are cameras in the municipal lot and, in addition, Village employees have noticed students parking there and all walking to the high school together.  The students have also been observed walking back to their cars at 3:15 P.M. after school.  If the police note a car constantly parked at the lot, they can run a license plate number to see to whom the car belongs.  Ms. Mailander added that the police are familiar with the cars owned by Village employees.  In addition, anyone visiting the library, exercising in the park, or conducting business at Village Hall are normally not parked in the lot all day long.

 

Everyone was in agreement that the ordinance can be introduced next week.

 

            C.        BUDGET

 

                        1.         REVIEW OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AS OF JUNE 30, 2022

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this is a review of the financial statements as of June 30, 2022.  Robert G. Rooney, Chief Financial Officer, presented to the Village Councilmembers an overview of the Current Fund Revenues and Appropriations, Water Utility Fund Revenues and Appropriations, and Parking Fund Utility Revenues and Appropriations as of June 30, 2022.  He stated that Current Fund revenues are slightly ahead of what was projected for the first six months of this year, primarily due to the influx of recreation fees and permits.  No aid has yet been received from the State, which normally starts being received in August (approximately $1.8 million).  One-time revenues received are about 84% of what was anticipated in the 2022 Budget, primarily due to “cash in house” that is allowed to be moved over to the Current Fund Budget.  The overall revenue stream for this fund is about 52% of what was budgeted for six months.

 

Mr. Rooney indicated that the appropriations for the Current (General) Fund are approximately what was targeted.  A few departments are “slightly over,” particularly the insurance category since premiums are usually paid for the full year.  He said that the expenditures for Public Safety, Public Works, and Health and Welfare are flat.  Any line items which are over the 2022 projections are usually due to the timing of payments or encumbrances which need to be made by a certain deadline.  Mr. Rooney said that, on an encumbrance basis, the Village is approximately 60% of budget but still well within the guidelines.

 

Regarding the Water Utility, Mr. Rooney said that rents represent approximately 45% of what was anticipated, due to the timing of billings and continued water restrictions which limit revenues.  PFAS treatment charges and water rate increases will be billed in July 2022.  Overall, the actual revenues as of June 30, 2022 are about 44% of what was anticipated in the 2022 Budget.  The actual appropriations are about 37% of what was anticipated in the 2022 Budget.

 

Mr. Rooney indicated that with regard to the Parking Utility Fund, the actual revenues as of June 30, 2022 are at 50% compared to what was anticipated in the 2022 Budget, which he said was very encouraging.  Regarding appropriations, expenses are at approximately 44% of what had been anticipated for the first six months of 2022.

 

Councilwoman Perron asked Mr. Rooney to confirm that the Village is no longer receiving revenues from the Park and Ride, and Mr. Rooney said that she was correct.  Ms. Mailander added that the Village no longer has the expenses associated with the Park and Ride, either, such as paving, striping, plowing and landscaping.

 

Mayor Knudsen asked Mr. Rooney to further discuss the status of the Hudson Street Parking Garage.  Mr. Rooney explained that parking revenue is received from multiple sources:  all parking lots, on-street parking, and the parking garage.  Revenue is not broken down into subcategories.  The debt service that is required to be paid on the bonds which were issued to build the garage is covered by revenues from all parking sources.

 

2.         2022 BUDGET AMENDMENT – MUNICIPAL ALLIANCE GRANT

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to a 2022 Budget Amendment for the Municipal Alliance Grant.  This revenue was not anticipated when the 2022 Budget was adopted, so the first Budget Amendment Resolution permits the Village to add grant revenue and appropriation to the 2022 Budget.  The second resolution permits the Village to transfer funds from the Recreation Department-Other Expense, to meet its financial obligations for matching funds for the Municipal Alliance Grant.  The grant funds will provide funding for drug and alcohol awareness programs for the community.

 

3.         AWARD CONTRACT – LASERFICHE UPGRADES – IT

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract for Laserfiche upgrades for the IT Department.  Laserfiche scans Village documents, with a feature that allows for easy searching by word or phrase.  Ms. Mailander indicated that the Village Clerk’s Office has electronically scanned documents back to the year 2000, including ordinances, resolutions, agendas, minutes and contracts.  Awarding the contract will be beneficial to the Village by increasing productivity, especially concerning Open Public Records Act (OPRA) requests, and will also be beneficial to the public, since there will be a public portal on the Village website which the public can use to search for documents.

 

Dylan Hansen, Director of the IT Department, said that this contract is for the purchase of additional IT upgrades and ten additional licenses.  The Village currently has 15 licenses, which means that 15 people can search simultaneously for public resolutions and ordinances on the public portal of the Village website.  An error message occurs if more than 15 people search at the same time.  Obtaining additional licenses will alleviate this problem.  Additional licenses may be purchased in the future if there is increased usage by the public.  Ms. Mailander added that the additional licenses will also allow additional departments to be able to go on and do Laserfiche as well.  The Finance Department uses it for their purchase orders and requisitions.  She is looking to add the Building Department and Health Department, so that the staff may manage and upload documents to the Village repository.

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this is an award of contract under State Contract to SHI of Somerset, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $24,256.50.  Funding is in the IT Capital Budget.

 

4.         AWARD SOLE SOURCE CONTRACT – SCADA SYSTEM UPGRADES – WATER POLLUTION CONTROL FACILITY

 

 Ms. Mailander explained that this is a recommendation to award a Sole Source Contract for Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system upgrades, which system is used to operate the wastewater treatment plant and pump stations for the Water Pollution Control Facility (WPCF).  The current SCADA system is almost 20 years old and is failing.  It is recommended that the software support contract be awarded to Emerson Process Management Power and Water Solutions, Inc., of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in an amount not to exceed $35,619.57, for a three-year period.  Funding is in the WPCF Capital Account.

 

5.         AWARD COOPERATIVE PURCHASING CONTRACT – FENCING AT GRAYDON POOL PARKING LOT - RECREATION

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the awarding of a County contract under the Cooperative Purchasing Program for fencing at the Graydon Pool parking lot.  This is for the purchase and installation of a two rail, black locust/split rail fence and one pedestrian open gate along Linwood Avenue and Northern Parkway.  It is recommended that this contract be awarded to Fox Fence of Clifton, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $22,649.00.  Funding for this purchase is in the 2019 Recreation Capital Budget.  This fencing would replace the current fence and the new fence will extend slightly around the corner to Northern Parkway to the “EXIT” sign at the Graydon lot.  The current fence is old, worn and rotting.

 

Councilwoman Perron said that there was not a gate there now.  Ms. Mailander clarified that this gate opening (not really a gate) would be installed near the sidewalk.

 

6.         AWARD COOPERATIVE PURCHASING CONTRACT – CAR CAMERAS – POLICE

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract under the Cooperative Purchasing Program for car cameras for the Police Department.  The current WatchGuard Mobile Video Recording (MVR) system has long passed its useful life and warranty.  For the past few years, the Police Department has had difficulty maintaining the system.  Following the successful deployment of the Axon Body Worn Cameras (BWC) last year, research was done by the Police Department and it was determined that the Fleet 3 system by Axon would be the best system for the department to use in police vehicles.  The system will integrate seamlessly with their current BWCs and the current redaction package will work with this system as well.

 

The cost of this system includes the installation of the system in 17 vehicles, warranty, and complete equipment refresh after five years.  It is recommended that this contract be awarded under State contract to Axon Enterprise, Inc., of Scottsdale, Arizona, in the amount of $212,168.00.  Funding is in the Police Department Capital Budget.  Once the purchase order is issued, delivery is anticipated in 12 months.

 

Councilwoman Perron asked how old the current system is.  Police Chief Jacqueline Luthcke replied that the system is close to ten years old.

 

7.         AWARD COOPERATIVE PURCHASING CONTRACT – FIREFIGHTER BAILOUT SYSTEM GEAR

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract under the Cooperative Purchasing Program for the purchase of firefighter bailout systems for the Fire Department.  This purchase will replace their current bailout devices that have reached the end of their useful life, per the manufacturer.  The lowest responsible quote was received by Strategic Safety Dynamics of Smithtown, New York, in an amount not to exceed $35,959.75.  Funding is in the Fire Department Capital Budget.  This purchase will include bailout systems for all members, three training devices, and training classes for five members.  Ms. Mailander explained what a bailout system is:  the device gets clipped onto a window sill and then to the firefighter, and the carabiner slowly lowers the firefighter to the ground.

 

Chief John Judge of the Fire Department explained that it will take approximately four months for the equipment to be received, after which some firefighters will undergo training.  Those firefighters will then train the remaining members of the Fire Department on its usage.

 

8.         AWARD COOPERATIVE PURCHASING CONTRACT – FIREFIGHTER TURNOUT GEAR

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract under the Cooperative Purchasing Program for the purchase of 11 sets of turnout gear for the Fire Department.  This Ricochet Turnout Gear will be purchased through Strategic Safety Dynamics of Smithtown, New York, in an amount not to exceed $34,837.00.  Funding is in the Fire Department Capital Account.  This new equipment will replace old, outdated gear.  When questioned by Councilman Vagianos, Chief Judge explained that this gear consists of bunker pants and the coats worn by firefighters when they must respond to a fire emergency.  He said that the term “turnout gear” could also include helmets, gloves, hood, and boots, but this purchase is only for pants and coats.

 

9.         AWARD COOPERATIVE PURCHASING CONTRACT – AMBULANCE - FIRE

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the purchase of an ambulance under the Houston-Galveston Area Council Cooperative.  The ambulance would be a 2022 Wheeled Coach Type 1, 170” Module, Ford F-450, 4 x 4 and would be purchased from Firefighter One of Sparta, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $235,402.00.  This would replace Ambulance #11, which is a 2002 ambulance with over 57,000 miles.  The low-end replacement for ambulances is five to eight years and the high end is 14 years, so at 20 years with a 20-month build time, Ambulance 11 needs to be replaced.  The new ambulance will meet updated safety standards and fix many other issues encountered with the current ambulance.  Funding is in the Fire Department Capital Account.

 

Councilman Vagianos asked what will be done with the old ambulance.  Chief Judge said that some parts of the ambulance may be removed for use in a utility transport vehicle.  Some private businesses also purchase old ambulances and use them as work trucks.  Councilman Vagianos asked whether Ambulance 11 could be sold, and Chief Judge replied that it could be sold rather than be junked.  However, it will be almost two years before the new ambulance is built, so he will make an appropriate determination at that time.

 

Councilwoman Perron asked how many ambulances the Village will own once the new ambulance is purchased.  Chief Judge said that after Ambulance 11 is sold, the Village will own three ambulances.  Chief Judge added that they recently had four emergency calls at the same time.

 

10.       AWARD COOPERATIVE PURCHASING CONTRACT –POWERLOAD FOR AMBULANCE – FIRE

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract under the Cooperative Purchasing Program for a Stryker Power Load Lift System for the Fire Department. This is being purchased separately from the ambulance in order to save money.  This is a powered system that contains a stretcher fastener, which improves safety for both the operator and patient by supporting the stretcher for the entire loading and unloading process.  By purchasing directly from the manufacturer utilizing the Bergen County Cooperative, a total of $3,750.00 was saved from the final price. The Power Load is currently in all three Village ambulance and studies have shown a significant reduction in stretcher-related injuries for staff and improved patient care.  It is recommended that the contract be awarded under County contract to Stryker Medical of Chicago, Illinois, in an amount not to exceed $24,164.20.  Funding is in the Fire Department Capital Account.

 

Councilwoman Perron asked if the Power Load in Ambulance 11 could be used in the new ambulance being purchased.  Chief Judge replied that it potentially could be used in the new ambulance; however, the Power Load in Ambulance 11 is already eight to ten years old.  If it were used in the new ambulance, it would have to be removed from Ambulance 11 and sent to the dealer for installation in the new ambulance.  This would mean that there would be one less ambulance in use in the Village for emergencies.  In addition, if the Power Load were left in Ambulance 11, it could be sold with the ambulance to generate extra revenue.

 

Mayor Knudsen said that she recalled new Power Loads were purchased only a couple of years ago.  Chief Judge said that he would check his records and let her know the age of the current Power Loads.

 

11.       AWARD COOPERATIVE PURCHASING CONTRACT –MANHOLE FRAMES AND WATERTIGHT COVERS – STREETS

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item deals with the awarding of a contract for the purchase, through the Bergen County Cooperative Purchasing Program, of manhole frames and covers to replace the old ones on roads being resurfaced by Bergen County this year in the Village.  The Streets Department also needs to replenish their inventory of the covers and frames.  The frames and covers will be watertight ones to help reduce sanitary sewer collection system inflow/infiltration problems.  It is recommended that this contract be awarded to Campbell Foundry of Harrison, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $39,400.00.  Funding is in the Street Department Capital Account.

 

12.       AWARD CONTRACT – CROSSING GUARD SERVICES – POLICE

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that the Village went out for bid for crossing guard services, but no bids were received, although there were two plan holders.  The Village went out for rebid and received one bid package from All City Management Services, a registered plan holder in Santa Fe Springs, California, in an amount not to exceed $494,511.00 for 31 morning and 31 afternoon school crossing guard posts for one school year.  This is a 31.4% increase ($118,307.00) from their previous bid of $376,204.00 per year, due to higher salaries at $22.00 an hour in order to incentivize people to work.  Ms. Mailander indicated that this contract is primarily funded through the Police Department Budget. 

 

Ms. Mailander stated that this company would run the entire school crossing guard program, including hiring the guards, doing the scheduling, and providing coverage in the case of absences.  If the company cannot find coverage at any time, they notify the Police Department so that a Police Officer or Parking Enforcement Officer can fulfill those duties at a certain post.  The Village does not have to provide the guards with uniforms, materials, or transportation logistics.  It is recommended that this contract be awarded for one year.  There is an option for a second year contract, which will be reviewed at the appropriate time.

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that the first time All City Management Services was used, they took care of mostly everything.  The cost to obtain crossing guards for a school year has been increasing steadily over the past few years, with the expense now being close to $500,000.  Deputy Mayor Sedon asked at what point would it be more expensive to obtain the crossing guards through the outside company as opposed to what the Village had been doing in the beginning (supplying crossing guards in-house). 

 

Mr. Rooney replied that the Village is currently at a “break even” point.  If the Village were to supply guards on its own at the current time, the cost of salaries, equipment, training, fringe benefits, unemployment benefits and uniforms would amount to what All City Management Services is charging.  By awarding this contract, more police officers would be able to be “on the street” to perform their usual responsibilities rather than performing school crossing guard duties.  There would also be a savings to the Village in terms of police overtime.  If police officers were used as crossing guards, charges would be incurred for salaries and vehicle usage.  He said that going with this contract for a year would give the Village time to evaluate other processes in order to hire school crossing guards.  Given that school will be starting shortly, Mr. Rooney said that the Village should move ahead with this contract.  Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that he agreed with Mr. Rooney but wanted to make sure that this matter is revisited before the next school year.

 

Councilwoman Perron asked how well All City Management Services has performed in the past. Chief Luthcke said that, besides during the Covid pandemic, they have had no issues with their performance.  This company is constantly recruiting employees and has a good local manager who coordinates all the guards’ schedules.  She stated that she has experienced a very positive working relationship with them.  Mayor Knudsen remarked that the Village actually received an award for their crossing guard program, which reflected well upon the Village.  She said that she agreed with Deputy Mayor Sedon that this issue needs to be revisited and re-evaluated.  Chief Luthcke remarked that the Village was the first municipality in the State to use this company, and many other towns have gotten on board with this company since that time. 

 

Councilman Vagianos reminded everyone how difficult it has been to find people who want to work in various capacities throughout the Village, such as struggling to find lifeguards to work at Graydon Pool.  He said that $22.00 an hour is the “new normal” and, given the current climate as far as trying to find people who want to work, he feels that the Village should award this contract.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds asked if the Village would receive a “credit” on the contract amount if All City Management Services could not provide coverage and the Village had to employ a police officer to act as a crossing guard.  Chief Luthcke replied that the company would not bill the Village for the time period during which a police officer had to fulfill that role.

 

Ms. Mailander said that she will move ahead with the awarding of this contract, with further re-evaluation in the future.

 

13.       AWARD CONTRACT – AMMUNITION - POLICE

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract under State contract for the purchase of ammunition for the Police Department, required for their mandatory training and duty use.  It is recommended that the contract be awarded to Eagle Point Gun/T. J. Morris & Son – New Jersey, of Thorofare, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $35,790.69.  The funding for this purchase is in the Police Department Operating Budget.

 

Councilwoman Perron asked if ammunition which is unused in any given year can be saved for use in the following year, or whether the ammunition expires.  Chief Luthcke replied that any unused ammunition can be used the following year.

 

            D.        POLICY

 

1.         REVIEW OF PROPOSALS – MUNICIPAL ENERGY AGGREGATION PROGRAM

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the review of proposals submitted for the Municipal Energy Aggregation Program.  Councilwoman Perron stated that three bids were received from different companies (Good Energy LP, Gabel Associates and Taurus Advisory Group) to be the consultant/broker for the Energy Aggregation Program or, as referred to in the Village, Encouraging Alternative Green Energy for Ridgewood (EAGER).  The consultant will be paid by the third party supplier.  Councilwoman Perron explained that the consultant’s job is very important in terms of guiding the Village towards the best time to enter the energy market, when Requests for Proposal should be sent out, and evaluating bids when they are received.  She indicated that the Village Councilmembers may want to interview representatives from all three companies before making a decision.

 

Members of the Green Ridgewood Subcommittee felt that two of these companies (Good Energy LP and Gabel Associates) submitted very good offers.  They were less impressed with the bid from Taurus Advisory Group.  It is the suggestion of the subcommittee that the Village Councilmembers interview representatives from these two consultancy companies.  Gabel Associates has worked with the Village in the past, giving a presentation in 2021 via Zoom and answering questions.  Councilwoman Perron stated that Gabel Associates has been in the forefront of energy aggregating and renewable energy aggregating in New Jersey.  The principals of that company worked for the Board of Public Utilities, have been influential in Trenton, and have rendered expert testimony in court.

 

Councilwoman Perron stated that Good Energy LP has offices all over the United States and also has an impressive background.  However, the subcommittee felt that their approach was a bit more customized for Ridgewood.  Councilwoman Perron stated that when she engaged in a training webinar regarding energy aggregation, the consensus of the participants was that Gabel Associates was the company that Ridgewood should hire as consultants.  She stated that it was up to the Village Councilmembers whether or not they wanted to interview the representatives of these companies.

 

Councilman Vagianos thanked Councilwoman Perron for the countless hours she has spent on obtaining all of this information.  He feels that an energy aggregation program will be beneficial to Ridgewood residents.  He agrees with her recommendation of interviewing these companies to learn more information before a final decision is made.  Mayor Knudsen indicated that if the Village Councilmembers were going to conduct interviews, she would like to interview all three companies.  It was decided that interviews would be conducted with all three companies.

 

Councilwoman Perron stated that the subcommittee is developing a list of questions which could be used by the Village Councilmembers during the interview process.  She will pass along these questions to the Village Councilmembers. 

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that the interviews could be conducted either during a Work Session or Special Public Meeting.  She estimated that an hour would be required for each of the three interviews, including a presentation and question-and-answer session.  She thought that, unless there was an extremely brief Work Session, a Special Public Meeting would be better, perhaps held on a Monday evening.  She will submit some dates in September to the Village Councilmembers so that they can decide on a mutually agreeable date and time to conduct the interviews.

 

Mayor Knudsen recalled that one of the members of the subcommittee, Beth Creller, had indicated that time was of the essence regarding a decision related to the energy aggregation program.  Councilwoman Perron clarified that the Village Council needs to make a decision by “bid day.”  The consultant sends information the week prior to the energy auction.  Time is of the essence because there is more competition if bids are reviewed and a decision is made on the same day as the auction.  As time marches on, the market changes rapidly and bidders need to know the timeframe within which they are bidding.

 

Councilman Vagianos said it was his understanding that when the consultant indicates that “now is the time to get in,” the Village needs to be prepared and “ready to pull the trigger immediately.”  “Time of the essence” does not mean that the Village Council needs to rush to choose a consultant.

 

            E.        OPERATIONS

 

1.         PROPOSED STOP SIGN – ALANON ROAD

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to a proposed stop sign being installed on the northbound Eastside Avenue approach to Alanon Road.  This would improve safety for motorists using Alanon Road, due to the fact that vehicles using Eastside Avenue as a cut through to avoid the traffic light at Grove Street and South Pleasant Avenue are not exercising sufficient caution at that intersection.  The Village Engineer conducted a field examination of the intersection area and noted that a motorist heading north on Eastside Avenue approaching Alanon Road has a poor line of sight to the left at traffic heading eastbound on Alanon Road.  A new stop sign is being recommended at the subject location.

 

2.         PROPOSED STOP SIGN – HIGHLAND AVENUE AND GREENWAY ROAD

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to a proposed stop sign being installed on the Highland Avenue approaches to Greenway Road and the Greenway Road approach to Knollwood Road.  Mr. Rutishauser conducted a field examination of the Greenway Road area and the westbound Greenway Road approach to Knollwood Road.  As westbound Greenway reaches Knollwood, the grade of Greenway reduces the sight lines of traffic on Knollwood.  Westbound Greenway would benefit from a stop sign at Knollwood.  Yield signs are used on Highland Avenue’s approaches to Greenway Road to regulate traffic.  These yield signs have not been memorialized by any Village ordinance.  Accordingly, the Village Engineer is recommending the installation of new stop signs on both sides of Highland Avenue at Greenway Road as well as at Greenway Road westbound at Knollwood Road.

 

3.         AUTHORIZE EXECUTION OF CONTRACT WITH BERGEN COUNTY – SNOW PLOWING OF COUNTY ROADS – STREETS

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the execution of a contract with Bergen County for snow plowing of County roads, which is done every two years.  This ensures that the County roads get plowed concurrently with the local roads in Ridgewood.  This is a Shared Services Agreement.  The County reimbursement rate is $115.00 per hour as detailed in the agreement.  This resolution would authorize the Mayor, Village Manager and Village Clerk to execute the agreement (2022 to 2024 snow seasons).

 

Councilman Vagianos asked if the $115.00 per hour is the same rate of reimbursement from the County for the past two years.  Ms. Mailander replied that there has been an increase of approximately $5.00 per hour.  Councilman Vagianos asked if the Village makes any money on this or whether it was a “break even” scenario.  Ms. Mailander replied that this allows the County roads to be plowed at the same time with Village roads.  Otherwise, it is uncertain when the County would send a crew to Ridgewood to plow its County roads.  The price is non-negotiable.

 

4.         AUTHORIZE EXECUTION OF MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING – CANCER CONTROL PLAN, EARLY DETECTION EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND TUBERCULOSIS CONTROL – HEALTH DEPARTMENT

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to an authorization to execute a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) which contains agreements for services regarding a Comprehensive Cancer Control Plan, New Jersey Cancer Education and Early Detection Program, Tuberculosis Control and Public Health Emergency Preparedness Program.  The Bergen County Department of Health receives grant money to be the lead agency for offering services to local health departments.  There is no fee for these services, but it is a required service under the Public Health Practice Standards.

 

5.         AUTHORIZE EXECUTION OF AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN FIREFIGHTER GRANT – FIRE

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this is a resolution to authorize submission of an application for the American Rescue Plan Firefighter Grant for the Ridgewood Fire Department for Fiscal Year 2022 in an amount not to exceed $75,000.00.  These funds will be used to purchase firefighter turnout gear and Scott Air-Paks. This grant is available through the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs.  The Village will provide at least a 5% matching grant.

 

6.         DECLARE SURPLUS – VEHICLES AND EQUIPMENT – STREETS

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to a resolution to declare surplus property of the Department of Public Works.  The surplus property consists of vehicles and equipment used by various departments throughout the Village which are no longer mechanically viable.  There are many vehicles and pieces of equipment with extensive corrosion and expensive repair needs.  These items are taking up valuable space while only decaying further, reducing their value.  This resolution will authorize the surplus property to be auctioned on Govdeals.com.

 

7.         2023 VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETING DATES

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to confirming the 2023 Village Council meeting dates.  These dates are set at this time so that they can be ready to publish on the Village calendar for 2023, and Ms. Mailander can use these dates when she prepares the bid packets for the preparation of the 2023 Village Council meeting minutes.  All Public Work Sessions are held on the first and fourth Wednesdays of each month at 7:30 P.M., Public Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month at 8:00 P.M., and Special Public Meetings (Pre-Meeting Conference) are held at 7:30 P.M.  Ms. Mailander indicated that the only conflicting date is April 5, which is the first night of Passover.  It is recommended that that Work Session meeting be moved to Monday night, April 3, 2023.  Other than that exception, all meetings will follow the regular schedule.  During July, August, November and December, only two meetings will be held on the first and second Wednesdays of each respective month.

 

In addition, Ms. Mailander indicated that she would like to schedule “Coffee with the Council” on September 9, 2023 (the usual time, which is the first Saturday after Labor Day).

 

6.         REVIEW OF AUGUST 10, 2022 PUBLIC MEETING AGENDA

 

There are two Proclamations:  Declare September Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month and Declare September National Preparedness Month.  There will be the swearing-in of Police Officers Christopher Schumann and William Malone.  There are no ordinances for introduction or public hearing for Ridgewood Water, and no resolutions for Ridgewood Water on the August 10, 2022 Public Meeting Agenda.

 

Introduction of Ordinances include:  Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Restrict Parking for Improvement of Sight Obstructions on Morningside Road and California Street; Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Establish Stop Signs on Eastside Avenue at Alanon Road; Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Establish Stop Signs on Highland Avenue at Greenway Road and Greenway Road at Knollwood Road; Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Parking Regulations in the Municipal Complex Parking Lot; and Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Parking Spaces for New Ridgewood Water Headquarters.

 

Regarding the Ordinance to Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Parking Regulations in the Central Business District, Ms. Mailander said that she would like to introduce this Ordinance on September 7, 2022 and then schedule a Special Public Meeting on September 28, 2022 for adoption of this Ordinance.  In this way, the Ordinance can become effective on October 18, 2022.  If it is not heard until the Public Meeting scheduled for September 14, 2022, the Ordinance will not be adopted until October 12, 2022 and will not become effective until November 1, 2022.  Ms. Mailander indicated that the goal is to have these shared loading zones and 15-minute metered parking spaces in effect well before the holidays, during which time there is additional traffic in the CBD.  The earlier that the Ordinance becomes effective, the sooner that visitors to the CBD will become used to the new parking regulations.

 

A Public Hearing for Ordinance #3914 regarding Amending Chapter 190 – Land Use and Development – Window Displays for Vacant Storefronts will be continued until September.  The Planning Board still needs to review the Ordinance and provide feedback and approval to the Village Council.

 

Resolutions include:  Award Contract – Firefighter Bailout Systems; Award Sole Source Contract – SCADA System Software Support for Water Pollution Control Facility; Award Contract Under County Contract for Purchase and Installation of Fencing at the Graydon Pool Parking Lot; Award Contract Under County Contract – Manhole Frames and Watertight Covers; Award Contract Under State Contract – LaserFiche Upgrades; Award Contract Under State Contract – Police Car Cameras; Award Contract Under State Contract – Police Ammunition; Award Contract Under State Contract – Firefighter Turnout Gear; Award Contract Under Houston-Galveston Area Council Cooperative Purchasing – Ambulance; Authorize Shared Services Agreement – Snowplowing (Bergen County); Authorize Execution of Memorandum of Understanding – Comprehensive Cancer Control Plan, New Jersey Cancer Education and Early Detection Program, Tuberculosis Control, and Public Health Emergency Preparedness Program (Bergen County Department of Health); Authorize Submission of Application – American Rescue Plan Firefighter Grant; Chapter 159 – Accept Bergen County Department of Health Services – Municipal Alliance Grant Program; Authorize Correction to 2022 Budget – Transfer of Funds to Provide for Municipal Alliance Grant Matching Funds; Declare Property Surplus – Various Vehicles and Equipment; and Appoint Members to Central Business District Advisory Committee (CBDAC) (to extend terms to December so that they will have the opportunity to appoint members once the new Village Councilmembers take office).

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that the Resolution regarding the Awarding of a Contract Under County Contract for the Stryker Power Load for the new Ambulance will be taken off the agenda until such time as Chief Judge finds out if the Power Load from Ambulance 11 can be used in the new ambulance instead.  The new ambulance will not be received until 20 months from now, so there is enough time to hear this matter at a later date.  Mayor Knudsen asked if the pricing of the new Power Load will be compromised if it is ultimately decided to purchase a new one at a later date rather than using the old Power Load.  Ms. Mailander replied that she will ask Chief Judge about this and indicated that the new Power Load is being purchased through the Bergen County Cooperative Purchasing Program.  Mayor Knudsen indicated that the Resolution could always be passed on August 10, 2022 and then stricken in the future if necessary, and Ms. Mailander agreed.  She will ask Chief Judge when the contract expires.  This item will be kept on the agenda.

 

Ms. Mailander asked if there were any items which the Councilmembers wanted off of the consent agenda, and there were none.

 

7.         PUBLIC COMMENTS

 

Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that the Graydon Pool notifications on the Recycle Coach app are “really cool.”  She is happy that the hours of operation at the pool will not be cut during the month of August.  However, she is still unhappy with the fact that the pool closes at 6:00 P.M. every evening, as many other people are.  She wondered if the pool will be closed during the week before Labor Day, as it has been in the past.  Ms. Loving asked if there could be a “Dog Day” at Graydon Pool after the pool has closed for the summer.  She added that Ridgewood dog owners are very responsible people and no staff would be required.

 

Regarding the crossing guard comments heard this evening, Ms. Loving said that a comparison had been made between crossing guard wages and lifeguard wages.  Both are very important jobs in terms of safety, but Ms. Loving stated that the job of a crossing guard is an incredibly dangerous job.  A friend of hers who was a crossing guard was almost killed on a number of occasions by “idiotic drivers” speeding past her, cursing, or beeping their horn at her while she was performing her duties to protect children.  In addition, this job requires a “split shift” where crossing guards must be at their posts at various times during the day.  Crossing guards must also work during any kind of weather.  Ms. Loving said that crossing guards deserve a tremendous amount of respect and she is happy to see that they are being well paid.

 

Boyd A. Loving, 342 South Irving Street, indicated that he wanted to comment on some remarks made by Mr. Calbi regarding water conservation.  Mr. Calbi mentioned the placards that homeowners with Smart Controllers needed to display either in their front window or on a stick in their front yard, and also mentioned that his staff performs inspections at night to see if any resident is in violation of the water conservation guidelines.  Mr. Loving asked how employees can possibly see the placard, especially in a window, if enforcement is done at night, unless a spotlight is aimed directly at the front of a house. 

 

Mr. Loving indicated that, by Mr. Calbi’s own admission, hot weather will cause the Smart Controllers to activate more often. He still does not understand how this could possibly promote water conservation.  Those homeowners without Smart Controllers are restricted to watering only twice a week during certain hours.  If the weather is hot, the 292 households in Ridgewood with Smart Controllers will be watering seven days a week.  He asked why Mr. Calbi cannot pull the “consumption rates” for those households with Smart Controllers to see if they are in violation of the Water Conservation Ordinance, by comparing past and prior usage and taking into account weather conditions during those time periods.  Mr. Loving stated that rain sensors are not unique to Smart Controllers.  By ordinance, rain sensors are required for everyone who has an underground sprinkler system.

 

Regarding Councilwoman Reynolds’ comments about the parking spaces in front of the new Ridgewood Water headquarters, Mr. Loving stated that it was his opinion that parking should not be allowed at that location after 4:30 P.M., because vehicles parked there after that time will make it more dangerous for pedestrians who are using the nearby crosswalk.  Ridgewood Water closes at 4:30 P.M. and, therefore, Mr. Loving stated that there will be no need for anyone to park there after that time to conduct business.  The ordinance should state that parking is only permitted in these spots from 8:30 A.M. to 4:30 P.M., Monday through Friday only.

 

Regarding students parking in the Municipal Complex parking lot, Mr. Loving asked why the students park in that location.  He asked if it might be a safety issue.  When he and his wife are utilizing the track at Veterans Field, they have noticed that it is primarily young female students who are parking in the lot.  Mr. Loving wondered whether these young women do not feel safe walking down the path (behind the tree line) from the Graydon South parking lot to the high school.  He thinks that the students need to be questioned why they are parking there.

 

For the record, Mr. Loving indicated that the question asked by Mayor Knudsen about the anonymous email sent regarding approximately 200 sidewalk violations in the Village was not answered by the Village Manager.  He wondered who would benefit from sending such an email. In addition, Mr. Loving had asked about some parking issues on North Maple Avenue at a prior meeting, and Ms. Mailander promised him that the signs would be installed the following day.  Mr. Loving said that the “No Parking” signs were not installed outside of the NoMa apartments. He also mentioned that the parking spaces in front of the new Ridgewood Water headquarters have not yet been authorized by resolution.

 

There were no further comments from the public.

 

Mayor Knudsen indicated that they will investigate the anonymous email to see who may have sent it.  Ms. Mailander indicated that the “No Parking” signs in front of NoMa were supposed to be reinstalled on the day following Mr. Loving’s initial comments, but she will need to follow up with the County to see why the signs were not reinstalled.  Mayor Knudsen said that there is a “No Parking Anytime” sign just beyond the cutout, but she did not see any within the cutout. 

 

Regarding the anonymous email, Councilwoman Reynolds stated that if a tree is going to be cut down due to sidewalk construction or repair, apparently the Village Arborist has already inspected the tree.  Mayor Knudsen stated that Mr. Loving’s question actually dealt with whether or not the person who sent the anonymous email sought to benefit monetarily from the email. With all due respect to Mr. Loving, Councilman Vagianos indicated that he didn’t think so much time needed to be spent trying to find out who sent the anonymous email.  He wondered what possible action could be taken after the Village found out who sent the email, since it was not illegal to send an email.  Mayor Knudsen said that she felt it was probably not a Ridgewood resident who went around town recording sidewalks which were in need of repair, but that it probably was a contractor who was hoping for financial gains.  She indicated that she was interested in finding out who actually sent the email.

 

8.         RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION

 

Deputy Clerk Eileen Young read Resolution #22-274, to go into Closed Session as follows:

 

 

 

9.       ADJOURNMENT

 

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Sedon seconded by Councilwoman Reynolds, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Work Session was adjourned at 10:04 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 JUNE 22, 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 7:32 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 not in attendance.  Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; Eileen Young, Deputy Village Clerk; and Matthew 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 men and women serving our nation, all first responders, and for all those suffering as a result of senseless violence.

 

2.         COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

Brian DellaTorre, 353 Evergreen Place, indicated that he sent an email regarding Graydon Pool to the Village Councilmembers, and thanked Mayor Knudsen and Councilman Vagianos for their replies.  He said that kids babysit at the age of 13 and can obtain a moped license at the age of 15, yet children under the age of 16 could not swim at Graydon Pool without adult supervision.  He acknowledged the acute lifeguard shortage this year at Graydon Pool.  Having grown up in Glen Rock, Mr. DellaTorre said that he and his friends spent a lot of time at the pool between the ages of 10 and 14.  Working papers could be obtained at the age of 14, and young adults could work in various capacities, such as attending the snack bar, after which time they could eventually become lifeguards at the age of 16.  He emphasized that this is the way things should be done at Graydon Pool to perhaps alleviate the lifeguard shortage.  He stated that it will not happen if teenagers are not allowed to be at Graydon Pool on their own until they are 16 or older.   He spoke of the various improvements made at Graydon Pool over the years, and he suggested that a committee be formed to address the lifeguard shortage issue, which is resulting in holiday closures and only certain sections of the pool being open at various times.

 

Susan Schreiber, 52 Warren Place, indicated that she wanted to speak about the lifeguard situation at Graydon Pool.  She has been a member of Graydon Pool for many years.  She indicated that she spoke to one of her neighbors, whose three children work at Graydon Pool, two as lifeguards.  Her neighbor mentioned that her children, 19-year-old twins, told her that the lifeguards have long shifts in the hot sun, causing fatigue and burnout.  She mentioned how difficult it was for a young adult to spend 10 hours a day during the summer working as a lifeguard.  Ms. Schreiber said that she always swims at the YMCA and that they also had trouble finding lifeguards to work there.  She acknowledged the difference between the pool at the YMCA and the waterfront facility at Graydon Pool.  Ms. Schreiber mentioned that she works in a high school, and that salaries are extremely important to young adults.  She suggested that the lifeguard salaries be examined and also that the hours a lifeguard has to work be shortened.

 

Deborah Butensky, 280 Elden Court, said that she has resided in Ridgewood for approximately 29 years.  She said that all three of her children attended Graydon Camp under the direction of Ms. Nancy Bigos, Director of Parks and Recreation.  They learned to swim there with instructor Daniel Buzinsky, and later became waterfront guards after being trained by Steve Diamond.  She feels that these experiences molded her now-adult children.  She mentioned that lifeguards are among the lowest paid first responders, and she acknowledged the severe lifeguard shortage across the United States.  She said that learning how to swim is a basic, life safety skill, and summer is an ideal time to learn.  She felt that if Ridgewood could make modifications to lifeguard schedules, responsibilities and pay scale, the Village may be able to keep the current lifeguards and motivate new lifeguards to join the Graydon Pool staff.

 

Fred Holden, 188 West Glen Avenue, said that he has lived in Ridgewood for 43 years, since 1979.  He is speaking this evening in support of Graydon Pool staff.  He said that Graydon Pool is a gem, an attractive community asset.  He has heard out-of-towners refer to Graydon as “that wonderful park and lake near the downtown area.”  Mr. Holden said that residents of Ridgewood are extremely fortunate to be the recipients of Mr. Graydon’s generous bequeathal to the Village. He said that a facility such as Graydon Pool needs continued maintenance and trained personnel in order to operate as a summer swimming facility.  Pre-season care and preparations are necessary, and Mr. Holden expressed his appreciation to Village staff who have maintained Graydon Pool, especially during the last three years. 

 

Mr. Holden stated that no staff is more critical to the safety of patrons than the lifeguard staff and supervisory personnel.  Mr. Holden mentioned that the skills necessary to run a waterfront facility such as Graydon may not be readily apparent to those who have never worked at a swimming facility.  Specialized training and certification are required for lifeguards to work at Graydon.  He himself has experience working at swimming pools, including as a head lifeguard and assistant pool manager.  He mentioned the unrelenting concern for the safety and well-being of patrons at such facilities.  Guards and their supervisors are the first responders to any on-site emergencies. 

 

Mr. Holden stated that lifeguards are also expected to do some degree of pool maintenance, but only those tasks directly related to the pool.  Mr. Holden mentioned that, in his experience over the years as a lifeguard, he never saw a lifeguard routinely assigned with the task of cleaning bathrooms.  He heard that a wage increase for lifeguards may be imminent, and he stated that this is long overdue.  He said that the salary increases have to be significant in order to attract qualified lifeguards.  Ridgewood has to be competitive when compared to the pay scales from other towns for lifeguards.  Otherwise, potential lifeguard candidates will work elsewhere.

 

Ellie Gruber, 229 South Irving Street, said that she was happy to see the awarding of the grant for rehabilitation of the Schedler house on the Special Public Meeting agenda this evening.  She thanked the Village Manager and Village Councilmembers for supporting the rehabilitation of the Zabriskie-Schedler house.  She said that after the house is completed, she believes that there will be a lot of equality in the Village and equal community services for the residents on the east side of Ridgewood.  She visited the property the other day and commented on how beautiful it looks already.

 

Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, said that she also wanted to speak about Graydon Pool this evening.  She realizes that the hours during which Graydon Pool is open may need to be reduced due to the lifeguard shortage.  She hopes that the Village Council will take into consideration the fact that many families have young children who normally nap after lunchtime. If the pool does not open until noontime, then the young children will not have the opportunity to enjoy Graydon Pool in the morning hours. 

 

To Ms. Loving’s knowledge, Graydon Park is the only park in the Village which makes money.  Every other park in the Village costs money to maintain.  She said that the Parks and Recreation Department needs to stop looking at Graydon Pool as a profit-making venture and the Village needs to start paying the lifeguards better wages.  She said that there is no more important job than saving someone’s life.  Ms. Loving mentioned how beautiful Graydon Pool and its facilities look this year, from the bathrooms to the clarity of the water.

 

Boyd A. Loving, 342 South Irving Street, indicated that a few weeks ago, the Village Manager read a document into the minutes regarding the Zabriskie-Schedler house and property.  He wondered why that document is not yet posted on the Village website.

 

Mr. Loving said that despite numerous emails and letters to the Village Manager and Engineering Department, the “no parking” signs which were removed in front of the NoMa apartments during construction have still not been replaced.  As a result, Mr. Loving stated that people are parking there illegally and it is creating a traffic hazard during certain times of the day.  He cannot understand why it is taking months for these “no parking” signs to be replaced.

 

Deborah Liguori, 319 Meadowbrook Avenue, stated that both her son and daughter are lifeguards at Graydon Pool.   She has lived with her family in Ridgewood for many years.  When her son and daughter were younger, they went to the pools in Paramus and Franklin Lakes, rather than to Graydon Pool, which created transportation difficulties for her.  She said that her 10-year-old son and his friends all go to Graydon Pool, every day, all summer long.  However, there is a lifeguard shortage.  Ms. Liguori said that this is because lifeguards are paid better in other towns.  Shifts are long because there is not enough staff, and she fears that patrons will be driven away from Graydon because of reduced hours and not enough lifeguards.  She mentioned one day when there were only two guards at Graydon Pool, with her son being one of them.  Her son is worried that he may not be able to rescue someone because of the lack of adequate backup staff.

 

There were no further comments from the public. 

 

Mayor Knudsen remarked that there will be a discussion regarding the situation at Graydon Pool later this evening.  She appreciated all of the valid points raised during public discussion.

 

Regarding the signs which need to be replaced outside of the NoMa apartments, Ms. Mailander indicated that North Maple Avenue is a County road and it is Bergen County who needs to make that decision.  She said that she was not sure what the holdup is, but she will find out and report back to the Village Council.

 

3.         MANAGER’S REPORT

 

Ms. Mailander reminded all customers of Ridgewood Water that irrigation is allowed only two days per week, year round.  These are permanent water restrictions.  Odd-numbered addresses can irrigate on Tuesdays and Saturdays.  Even-numbered addresses can irrigate on Wednesdays and Sundays.  No irrigation is allowed on Mondays, Thursdays or Fridays.  Smart Controller use is permitted only between 3:00 A.M. and 7:00 A.M., and a permit must be obtained from Ridgewood Water to do so.   Anyone with questions or who wishes further information may call 201-670-5520.  Postcards with water conservation regulations were mailed to each household in Ridgewood.

 

Seasonal membership programs are available through the Ridgewood Recreation Department.  Graydon Pool has opened.  American Red Cross Certification for Waterfront Lifeguard Training for a sand-bottom facility is available starting on June 26, 2022 at Graydon Pool.  Upon successful completion of the training, a lifeguard job at Graydon Pool will be offered.  Anyone with questions or who desires further information may call the Ridgewood Recreation Department at 201-670-5560, extension 3111.

 

Skatepark membership is available through Community Pass or at The Stable.  Membership is free and allows use of the skatepark.

 

Tennis and pickleball memberships are available through Community Pass or at The Stable.  There are four locations for tennis, with a total of 12 tennis courts, and one location for pickleball.

 

A variety of Ridgewood mini-camps will take place in August and are available for sign-up at Community Pass.

 

Music in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square will be presented on Saturday and Sunday nights during the summer months.  Ms. Mailander said that she did not think this included the weekend of July 2 and 3 because of the Fourth of July holiday.  The scheduled bands may be viewed on the Village website during the coming weeks.

 

The Ridgewood Guild is sponsoring free movies in the park on Wednesday nights in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square.  The movies being shown at 9:00 P.M. include “Justice League” on June 29, “Sing” on July 13, and “Hairspray” on July 27, and, at 8:30 P.M., “Clueless” on August 10, and “All About Eve” on August 24.

 

The Ridgewood Guild is also sponsoring “Music in the Night” for its 13^th season.  Music will be provided in various locations on Friday nights from Memorial Day through Labor Day.  The Ridgewood Guild will also sponsor “Art in the Park” on the first Friday in both July and August.  Pinot’s Palette will provide the art for viewing and for sale.

 

The Kasschau Memorial Shell programs have commenced.  They are held every Tuesday and Thursday in the months of June and July, and through August 4^th.  Programs begin at 8:30 P.M., unless otherwise noted.  The Senior Bus will be providing free transportation to several of the shows held on Tuesdays.  Interested persons may call 201-670-5500, extension 2203, for reservations or further information.  In the event that a performance is held indoors due to inclement weather, interested persons may call 201-444-1776 after 6:30 P.M. on the day of the performance for an update.  If a performance is cancelled or moved to another location, this information will be recorded on the telephone message.

 

On Tuesday, June 28^th, a Health Resources Fair will be held in the parking lot next to the Kasschau Memorial Shell from 7:30 P.M. to 8:30 P.M.  Information about at-home Covid-19 tests, as well as giveaways and important information from Valley Hospital, Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, Ridgewood Parks and Recreation, Ridgewood Health Department, Age-Friendly Ridgewood, and West Bergen Mental Healthcare will be available at that time.

 

Household hazardous waste collection held by the Bergen County Utilities Authority will take place at the Bergen County Campgaw Mountain Reservation, 200 Campgaw Road, Mahwah, New Jersey, from 9:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M., rain or shine, on Saturday, July 12, 2022.  No commercial vehicles will be allowed, and no commercial or business waste will be accepted.  Proof of Bergen County residency will be required.

 

All Village offices and departments will be closed on July 4, 2022 in observance of Independence Day.  There will be no garbage or recycling collection on July 4^th, and the Recycling Center will also be closed.  The schedule for garbage and recycling pickup may change that week, so residents should check their Village calendars for further information.

 

Dogs must be licensed during the month of June.  There will be a $20.00 late fee beginning on July 1.

 

The Farmers Market at the Ridgewood Train Station parking lot will be open from 8:30 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. from June 26, 2022 until approximately early November.

 

School crossing guards are needed to join the Ridgewood team.  Anyone interested in working a flexible schedule, for two hours per day on school days, should contact the Area Supervisor at 201-969-7182.

 

Upcoming Village Council meetings are broadcast live from the Village Hall Courtroom, on the Village website, and on FIOS Channel 34.  Upcoming Village Council Work Sessions will be held on July 6 and August 3, 2022 at 7:30 P.M.  The next Public Meetings are scheduled for July 13 and August 10, 2022 at 8:00 P.M.

 

4.         COUNCIL REPORTS

 

Councilman Vagianos indicated that he met with the Stigma-Free Committee this week and there are many interesting events scheduled.  Covid vaccines have now been approved for children aged six months to five years.  Interested parents may contact the Ridgewood Health Department to find out where such clinics will be held.  Anyone interested in further information regarding vaccines and testing may call 855-568-0545.  Anyone with questions about the vaccine may call 800-962-1253. 

 

Councilman Vagianos stated that the Fourth of July Parade will be held on July 4^th.  The Ridgewood Health Department is looking for volunteers to hand out water to parade participants, since hot weather is anticipated.  Anyone interested in volunteering should contact the Fourth of July Committee at ridgewood4thofjuly@gmail.com.

 

The annual Citizens for Swimming Program will be held for three weeks in August.  Children from inner cities will be brought to Graydon Pool so that they may learn how to swim and enjoy the facilities at Graydon Pool.

 

An Adult Summer Reading Program, with prizes from local businesses, will be held to encourage adults to read.

 

A Medicare Education Program will be held on Tuesday, June 28, 2022 at 6:30 P.M. via Zoom.  Sheila Brogan will be hosting the event.  This program is designed to help people better understand complex Medicare procedures.  Anyone interested should visit the Ridgewood Library website and click on “Events” in order to sign up for this event.

 

Councilwoman Perron thanked the Ridgewood Fire Department and Emergency Medical Services for their rapid response to the fire at Ridgecrest, which houses many senior residents. She mentioned that it was fortunate that the fire did not spread beyond one unit.

 

The Central Business District Advisory Committee (CBDAC) will have a speaker, John Saracino, on July 14, 2022.  Mr. Saracino is a local developer, who will discuss his experiences regarding development in other municipalities.  The Executive Director of the Montclair Business Improvement District spoke at the last CBDAC meeting.  A follow-up meeting was held to discuss how such a business improvement district could benefit Ridgewood.  This will be discussed again in the future.

 

The Open Space Committee meeting last month was canceled.  However, a few members went on a field trip to Wayne, New Jersey, to see how the flood acquisition plan is working there.  The municipality bought homes which were subjected to repeated severe flooding and transformed the land into a park.  Councilwoman Perron described it as enlightening to see how this has been accomplished.

 

Pride Day on June 11, 2022 was a thoughtfully organized event.  Councilwoman Perron thanked all of the speakers and performers who made the event a success.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds described how beautiful the graduation ceremonies were at Ridgewood High School this year.  The sea of white tuxedos, white dresses and roses was spectacular to behold.  She echoed Councilwoman Perron’s remarks regarding the wonderful job done by the Ridgewood Fire Department and Emergency Medical Services when responding to the recent fire at Ridgecrest.  She mentioned how unfortunate it was that a resident passed away, but remarked how much worse it could have been.

 

The Pride Celebration was held on June 11, 2022 and it was a spectacular event.  Councilwoman Reynolds spoke about the amazingly heartwarming speeches which were made, which brought her to tears at times.  She thanked all the musicians who attended and all of the Village staff who helped to organize the event.  She thanked the members of the Stigma-Free Committee, the SAGA (Sexuality and Gender Association) students from Ridgewood High School, the Ridgewood Police Department, and the Signal Division who all attended and helped to make the event successful.  She mentioned that it was truly a community effort and a wonderful celebration.

 

The Citizens Safety Advisory Committee (CSAC) met on Thursday, June 16, 2022.  The Street Smart banners are currently at the printer.  They will hopefully be completed in July so that the Signal Division can install them in the CBD once the locations are finalized.  CSAC will not be meeting in either July or August, unless something of an urgent nature arises concerning safety. The next meeting will be in September.

 

The Planning Board meeting which was scheduled for June 21, 2022 was canceled.

 

Regarding the Project Pride Committee, Councilwoman Reynolds indicated that they have brought back the Project Pride Award, a four- to five-foot tall wooden stake in the form of a sunflower which reads “Project Pride Award.”  Every two weeks, six houses will be picked throughout Ridgewood which have done a spectacular job with their landscaping and gardens.  The wooden sunflower stake will be placed in the gardens of these homes in their front yards for two weeks.  The six households chosen this week were surprised and elated to have received the award.

 

Mayor Knudsen asked Councilwoman Reynolds whether photos are taken of the homes which receive the Project Pride Awards and whether or not the winners can be publicly announced.  Councilwoman Reynolds replied that she has composed a letter to each household asking them for their email address and, at the end of the season, she is hoping to invite everyone who has received an award to a Village Council meeting so that they can be honored and recognized.

 

Mayor Knudsen also expressed her gratitude to Ridgewood first responders (Fire Department, Police Department, and Emergency Medical Services) who quickly responded to the fire at Ridgecrest.  They quickly extinguished the blaze and she is sure the entire community is grateful for their efforts.

 

Mayor Knudsen spoke about the Fourth of July celebration which is quickly approaching.  She encouraged everyone to join in the festivities, from watching the parade to attending the fireworks display.  Anyone interested in volunteering can visit the website at ridgewoodjuly4th.net or simply Google “Ridgewood Fourth of July” to find out further details.  There will be a fundraising raffle to support the long tradition of the Fourth of July celebration.  The celebration is not sponsored by the Village, but is fully funded through private donations.

 

Regarding Pride Day, Mayor Knudsen thanked the Ridgewood Police Department, Traffic and Signal Department, and other Village staff who helped to make the event a huge success.  She also thanked all members of the community who spoke at the event.  She felt that it was a true representation of what Ridgewood is all about, including members of the LGBTQ+ community.  The speakers were passionate, and some of their life stories were heartbreaking yet beautiful at the same time.  One speaker stated that she could never have imagined in her wildest dreams that she would have been invited by her community to speak to her fellow residents about her experiences.  Mayor Knudsen thanked Councilwoman Reynolds for supporting the event, and especially thanked Councilwoman Perron for standing in for Mayor Knudsen at the Upper Ridgewood Tennis Club event in which Eagle Scout certificates were being presented.

 

Mayor Knudsen congratulated the Ridgewood High School Class of 2022 and stated that the graduation ceremonies were beautiful, despite the rain and cold.

 

5.         DISCUSSION

 

            A.        BUDGET

 

1.         AWARD CONTRACT – RESTORATION OF ZABRISKIE-SCHEDLER HOUSE

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract for the restoration and rehabilitation of the Zabriskie-Schedler House.  Bids were received on June 9, 2022 for the rebid of this project.  There were four prequalified plan holders eligible to bid.  The Village received two bids, ranging from a low of $759,275.00 to a high of $1,104,000.00.  The spread amongst the bids was $344,725.00 (a larger spread from the previous bid spread of $287,610.00).  The low bid of $759,275.00 was received from Dell-Tech, Inc., of Trenton, New Jersey.  Their previous bid was $776,975.00, so this rebid resulted in a lower bid cost than the initial bid.  The low bidder submitted a complete bid package with all necessary information.  This bidder is the same one who completed Phase I of the project in the interior of the house.  The recommendation is to award this contract to Dell-Tech, Inc., in the amount of $759,275.00.

 

            B.        POLICY

 

1.         SUSPEND PROCESSING OF APPLICATIONS FOR RECREATIONAL STRUCTURES

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the suspension of processing of applications for recreational structures.  This resolution will temporarily suspend processing and permitting of applications for batting cages and other sports-oriented structures, as recent approvals have compromised the outdoor quiet enjoyment of the residents of adjoining properties.  This resolution, if approved, will be sent to the Planning Board so that they may consider changes to the Village Code for these types of structures.

 

Councilman Vagianos stated that this is the first time, to his knowledge, this matter has been discussed at a Village Council meeting.  He stated that he was aware of a large batting cage structure being erected in a resident’s backyard.  He mentioned that the proposed resolution also mentions basketball hoops, which have been erected for years on residential properties.  He said that he was not aware of any complaints regarding noise emanating from anyone playing basketball. 

 

Mr. Rogers said that regarding the complaints that were received regarding the batting cages, he reviewed ordinances which dealt with the development of rear yards and what types of sports-related structures can be erected in rear yards (fixtures and macadam).  He said that the relevant ordinance is outdated across the board as it relates to the applications which are being currently received by residents.  Mr. Rogers stated that he is going to work with Tony Merlino to amend the ordinances that deal with rear yard usage regarding these types of structures.  Children’s play areas are not included in this resolution.  He said that batting cages have gotten significantly larger over the years, as have full-length basketball courts, and the ordinance did not take these into account when adopted years ago.

 

Mayor Knudsen said that this resolution does not deal with a resident simply erecting a basketball hoop in their driveway, but rather deals with rear yard recreational facilities (such as basketball courts) and the impact these structures have on adjoining neighbors.

 

                        2.         ENERGY TAX RESTORATION

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item deals with energy tax restoration to municipalities.  Supported by the New Jersey League of Municipalities, this resolution would send the message to the Legislature that the Village is in favor of restoring the energy tax receipts to municipalities.  The legislation provides for a two-year, phased-in restitution of the $331 million, which has been annually diverted from dedicated municipal funding programs – the Energy Tax Receipts Property Tax Relief Fund (ETR) and the Consolidated Municipal Property Tax Relief Aid (CMPTRA). 

 

During State Fiscal Years 2009, 2010, and 2011, this funding was diverted from towns to address State budget deficits.  Ever since that time, those dedicated revenues have not been distributed to municipalities.  Taxes on gas and electric utilities were originally collected by the host municipalities, and when the State made itself the collection agent for those taxes, it promised to return the proceeds to municipalities for property tax relief, and they have not done so to date.  For years, State officials, from both sides of the aisle, have diverted funding from Energy Taxes to plug holes in the State budget and to fund State programs.  The NJ League of Municipalities is urging the Village to contact its legislators so that this energy tax restoration can take place prior to passage of the Fiscal Year 2023 State budget in July.

 

Councilwoman Perron asked if anyone knew exactly what the State spent this tax revenue on.  Ms. Mailander said that she was not sure, but it was most likely used to plug holes in the State budget.  Councilwoman Perron said that she was very upset that this has occurred, while at the same time being concerned about what State programs may be cut as a result of the energy taxes being restored back to municipalities.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds made a motion to suspend the Work Session and convene a Special Public Meeting, seconded by Councilman Vagianos.

 

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    Deputy Mayor Sedon

ABSTAIN:   None

 

Councilwoman Perron moved that the Special Public Meeting be adjourned and that the Public Work Session be reconvened.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    Deputy Mayor Sedon

ABSTAIN:   None

 

5.         DISCUSSION

 

A.        PARKING

 

1.         SHARED LOADING ZONES / 15 MINUTE METERS IN CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT

 

Ms. Mailander explained that Officer Ray Tarino of the Ridgewood Police Department will present the revised version of the proposed shared loading zones and 15-minute meters in the Central Business District (CBD).  Beginning with Chestnut Street at East Ridgewood Avenue (west side), Officer Tarino proposes to extend the current loading zone by utilizing the first parking space (15-minute meter) to create a 45-foot shared loading zone from 6:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.  Both spaces will revert to 15-minute metered spots from 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.  The three-hour spot north of there will remain as is. 

 

Mayor Knudsen remarked that she is still grappling with putting a loading zone in front of someone’s business for most of the daytime hours.  Ms. Mailander indicated that trucks are there anywhere in the existing loading zone.  Mayor Knudsen objected to trucks being in those spaces all day long. 

 

Councilwoman Reynolds pointed out that there will be another loading zone created further down the block, which should relieve some of the pressure of trucks being in this particular loading zone all day long.  Mayor Knudsen would prefer the proposed loading zone to only be designated as such from 6:00 A.M. until 12:00 P.M. rather than 4:00 P.M.  She said that although another loading zone will be created down the block, it may not be the most desirable location for trucks when making deliveries. 

 

Councilwoman Perron felt that designating the space as a loading zone only until 12:00 P.M. would be confusing to both truckers and residents, since it would be different from all of the other proposed loading zones.  Officer Tarino agrees that the hours should be uniform across the board.  He added that the existing loading zone of 24 feet is barely accessible for its current use, and needs to be made larger in order to accommodate the stores getting deliveries.  He understood that the larger loading zone would be visually unsightly, but leaving the loading zone as it is now is creating a dangerous situation.  It can be revisited if the larger loading zone is either underutilized or overutilized. 

 

Councilwoman Perron indicated that the larger loading zone would be better for the customers of The Tobacco Shop because, as a regular loading zone, customers couldn’t use it after 4:00 P.M. anyway.  The business owner (Gary) tells his customers to come after 4:00 P.M. for more available parking.  There will be an additional parking space from 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. when it reverts to a 15-minute metered parking spot.

 

Across the street on Chestnut, where there are five spots (four complimentary spots and one three-hour spot) by bluemercury, the proposal is to create three 15-minute spots closest to East Ridgewood Avenue, with the two parking spaces closest to the kiosk each being three-hour spots.

 

Regarding Chestnut Street at Franklin Avenue (west side), Officer Tarino said that there were no changes from the last discussion.  It was agreed that the two three-hour spots would become a 45-foot shared loading zone from 6:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M., and then revert to two 15-minute metered spaces from 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.  Ms. Mailander added that everyone also agreed that the two three-hour spots on Franklin Avenue at Oak Street (north side) would become a new 45-foot loading zone from 6:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M., and then revert to two 15-minute metered spots from 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.

 

Regarding East Ridgewood Avenue at North Broad Street, Officer Tarino explained that they propose to remove the current 19-foot loading zone and make that a three-hour parking space.  Regarding South Broad Street at East Ridgewood Avenue (west side), Officer Tarino said that everyone agreed on removing the two spots (one 15-minute meter and one three-hour spot) and creating a 42-foot loading zone from 6:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M., which would then revert to two 15-minute metered spaces from 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. 

 

On North Broad Street at East Ridgewood Avenue (east side), Officer Tarino explained that the four existing complimentary spots will become four 15-minute metered spots. Across the street, near “The Hole,” a 15-minute spot will be turned into a three-hour spot, since the current 15-minute metered spot is currently creating a traffic issue in that location. 

 

Councilwoman Perron asked whether or not a kiosk would have to be moved on North Broad Street (for the four 15-minute spots), and Ms. Mailander said that the kiosk will possibly need to be moved.

Regarding Oak Street at East Ridgewood Avenue (west side), Officer Tarino explained that the two current three-hour spots will become a loading zone from 6:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. and will revert to two 15-minute metered spots from 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.  Businesses in that location include a dry cleaning facility, Leonard Anthony, Omaha Steaks, shoemaker, and Sombrero Tacoria.  Mayor Knudsen again remarked that the parking spaces near these businesses will be blocked all day long, at the height of the business day, and that some of these businesses do not even receive deliveries.  She said that these businesses will basically be invisible to passing traffic.  Mayor Knudsen suggested not creating the loading zone in front of The Tobacco Shop on Oak Street.

 

A discussion ensued regarding this location about how many trucks and what kind of trucks will utilize this loading zone (18-wheelers versus box trucks).  Councilman Vagianos said that, many times, there are box trucks parked outside his restaurant and he usually can’t wait for them to leave.  Mayor Knudsen added that the restaurant (Sombrero Tacoria) usually has outdoor sidewalk dining, and the loading zone would create problems for their customers.  Councilwoman Reynolds agreed with Mayor Knudsen.

 

Ms. Mailander asked Officer Tarino where the trucks would park if this were not changed to a loading zone.  Officer Tarino said that the trucks currently park across the bank of five parking spaces in front of Raymond’s, in front of the stop sign in the crosswalk, or in front of the driveway in that location.  This creates hazardous conditions and they usually receive summonses.  Officer Tarino said that trucks do not have an area to park to make deliveries in this area.  He added that trucks need to be supplied an area to make deliveries in order to create a safer area.  He said that the businesses in this area on Oak Street (by Omaha Steaks and the shoemaker) thrive on 15-minute parking spaces. 

 

Ms. Mailander added that some trucks park in the back parking lot in order to make deliveries.  Councilwoman Perron asked if a loading zone could be created in the Chestnut Street lot behind these businesses.  Officer Tarino replied that the police allow trucks to utilize the Chestnut Street lot for deliveries.  He said that most trucks utilizing this new loading zone would be making deliveries to businesses on East Ridgewood Avenue, Walnut Street, and between Prospect Street and Van Neste Square, as well as businesses on the east side of Oak Street, including Raymond’s. 

 

Councilwoman Reynolds remarked that she loved the idea of having a loading zone established in the Chestnut Street lot.  Ms. Mailander said that that would take up parking spaces. Officer Tarino reiterated that trucks currently use the Chestnut Street lot when delivering goods to the businesses adjacent to it, including businesses on Oak Street.  Mayor Knudsen suggested implementing the loading zones that everyone agrees on and then revisit the ones at a later date to which there are some objections.  This was agreeable to all (tabling the proposed loading zones on Oak Street by the dry cleaners and on Chestnut Street by The Tobacco Shop).

 

Regarding the bank of five metered spaces across the street on the east side (across from Raymond’s – presently four complimentary spots and one three-hour spot), Officer Tarino proposes that these spots be removed and converted into three 15-minute metered spots and two three-hour spots.  The kiosk will be moved in between the two three-hour spots.  The 15-minute meter currently in front of the former Lucky Brand store will remain as is.

 

Across East Ridgewood Avenue by Van Neste Square (west side), Officer Tarino explained that he proposes to make the first three spots (currently one 15-minute meter and two three-hour spots) 15-minute metered spots so that drivers do not have to cross the street to use the kiosk.

 

Regarding Prospect Street at East Ridgewood Avenue (west side), Officer Tarino indicated that there are currently three loading zone spots and one 15-minute metered spot.  He proposes to make the first two spots closest to East Ridgewood Avenue a shared loading zone from 6:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M., to make it easier for trucks to park in the event the first spot closest to East Ridgewood Avenue is occupied by a car.  Those spots will then revert to two 15-minute metered spots from 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. and the two 15-minute metered spots in front of the loading zone will remain as is.  Everyone was agreeable to this proposal.

Regarding South Walnut Street at East Ridgewood Avenue (west side), Ms. Mailander indicated that everyone agreed at the last meeting to convert the first two three-hour spots into a shared loading zone.  They would then revert to two 15-minute metered spots from 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.

 

On North Broad Street by the taxi stand, it was agreed that this location would be utilized as an all-day loading zone.  Councilwoman Reynolds asked if trucks will be able to pull into this loading zone if there are cars parked nearby.  Officer Tarino said that he believed they will be able to do so, since he measured this location at almost 60 feet.  He said that most trucks utilizing this spot are between 20 and 40 feet long.  When questioned by Councilwoman Reynolds, Officer Tarino replied that he did not think this location could be turned into 15-minute metered spots after 4:00 P.M.  He indicated that this location will be used by both trucks and taxis.  The ordinance will need to be modified to allow trucks to park there, since it is currently allowed to be used only for taxi pickup and drop-off.  Everyone was agreeable to this proposal.  Councilwoman Perron asked if the ordinance could also be modified to allow for Lyft and Uber pickups and drop-offs.  Officer Tarino said that he would recommend that this be done.

 

Regarding Wilsey Square at West Ridgewood Avenue, Officer Tarino said that this location will remain the same, with the existing complimentary spot and 40-foot loading zone.  The loading zone will remain as such all day long, and the current complimentary spot will be turned into a 15-minute metered spot.

 

Regarding Godwin Avenue at Wilsey Square, Officer Tarino indicated that there are currently two three-hour spots, which he proposes to turn into 15-minute metered spots on each side of the crosswalk.  He mentioned that the Police Department is seeing a lot of dangerous double parking in this area, and this proposed change will alleviate that situation.  There are a number of “to go” restaurants in that area.  Mayor Knudsen asked how many three-hour spots are left, and Officer Tarino replied that there would be two less three-hour spots than there are currently.

 

Ms. Mailander said that the proposed ordinance will hopefully be introduced on July 13, 2022. Everyone thanked Officer Tarino for his presentation.

 

2.         HUDSON STREET GARAGE WAYFINDING SIGNS

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the Hudson Street Garage wayfinding signs.  Dylan Hanson was present to discuss Google ads and budgeting.  A prototype of the sign was shown, which was the size of a 65-inch television (60 inches x 30 inches).  Councilwoman Reynolds asked if these signs would be temporary or permanent.  Ms. Mailander recommends that these signs be posted until the end of 2022.  Mayor Knudsen thought that the signs were entirely too big to be placed at the intersections of South Maple Avenue and Dayton Street, North Maple Avenue and East Ridgewood Avenue, Franklin Avenue and Oak Street, Franklin Avenue and North Broad, East Ridgewood Avenue and South Broad Street, East Ridgewood Avenue and Prospect Street, Walnut Street and East Ridgewood Avenue, and Walnut Street and Dayton Street.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds felt that these large signs would create visibility issues.  Mayor Knudsen described them as a “blight” which would degrade the entire CBD.  She asked why they were using the colors of blue and white, instead of matching the green “P” signs.  Ms. Mailander explained that this was just a prototype and everyone should ignore the colors.  The prototype was developed to show the size, lettering and format.  Mayor Knudsen said that most drivers recognize the “P” (Parking) signs and that this prototype should be made much smaller. She said that the “P” with the little car in front of it was cute but unnecessary.

 

Councilman Vagianos asked Mr. Hansen to stand in the back of the room with the prototype sign.  He said that viewing the 65-inch sign up close was like sitting in the first row of a theater.  He suggested that a slightly smaller sign would be appropriate, or perhaps half the size, but not significantly smaller, since the goal is for drivers to notice the sign.  Councilwoman Perron added that it appears that the sign reads “Arking Garage” instead of “Parking Garage.”  It was mentioned that the signs would only be erected for approximately six months and wouldn’t be permanent.  The goal is to make people aware of the location of the Hudson Street Garage. 

 

There was a discussion about the placement of the sign at the intersection of South Maple Avenue and Dayton Street and the adjoining properties (business versus residential).  Mayor Knudsen suggested visiting the proposed locations for each sign and photographing them to visually depict how each sign would look in the surrounding area.  Councilman Vagianos asked Mr. Hansen if he could superimpose a smaller sign (30 inches x 15 inches) over the larger sign once photographs are taken of each location.  He thought that Mayor Knudsen’s suggestion was a good one.  Mr. Hansen indicated that he could do so by the next Village Council meeting on July 6, 2022.  Mayor Knudsen mentioned that perhaps some locations could accommodate the bigger signs and some would need similarly branded signs but smaller.

 

A discussion ensued about the colors and font used on the signs.  It was mentioned that the blue color may be better because it would stand out more.  The green color may blend in too much with existing signage.  Councilman Vagianos mentioned that they should avoid “sign pollution” in the CBD; however, the signs need to be an appropriate size so that drivers notice them.  Mayor Knudsen said that the words “Parking” or “Arking” would not be necessary because the “P” is recognizable and universally understood to mean parking.  She suggested using the “P” with the word “Garage” and an arrow pointing to where the garage is located.  Councilman Vagianos disagreed that everyone knows what the “P” means.  Mr. Rogers interjected by saying that many municipalities, such as Montclair and Hackensack, have directional parking signs with a “P” on them to denote a parking garage or parking lot.  He suggested visiting other towns to view their signage.  It was agreed that photographs would be taken of the different locations in the CBD where it was proposed these signs be placed.

 

Mr. Hansen next discussed the development of Google ads to promote parking at the Hudson Street Garage.  He designated the goal as “get more visitors to your physical location.”  He set up analytics for the website, which would show how many people clicked on the ad and visited the website.  Regarding headlines for the ad, Mr. Hansen said that this section was automatically populated but that he would have full control over it, if it needed to be changed.  There are three different headers and two different descriptions.  The ads will continually rotate.  Contact information may also be added, and a sample of the ad can be viewed beforehand.  Search terms would consist of “Ridgewood Parking,” where the ad would pop up with a link to Google Maps, which contains pictures and information about the parking garage, as well as all parking locations within the Village of Ridgewood. 

 

Regarding the radius of the target audience, Mr. Hansen indicated that he chose 18 miles from the parking garage.  Anyone within that radius utilizing a cell phone or computer would be able to click on the Google ad.  The radius can be expanded at an additional cost.  Adding a couple of miles to the radius would nominally increase the cost.  Adding the entire tri-state region would cost significantly more.  Councilman Vagianos said that he thought this was too large of a radius, considering the demographics of the visitors to Ridgewood.  Mr. Hansen indicated that he chose the radius recommended by Google. However, it can be changed at any time.  Councilman Vagianos asked what towns are covered within that 18-mile radius.  Mr. Hansen said that there is a picture showing the radius boundaries.

 

Mayor Knudsen asked Mr. Hansen what would occur when someone clicks on a Google ad, whether it would just show parking or whether it would show other amenities in Ridgewood as well.  Mr. Hansen said that the Google ad can be directed to a page showing the parking garage only or could go directly to Google Maps, which will show all surrounding businesses, with the parking garage being in the center of the map.

 

Councilman Vagianos said that the town of Ridgewood is not shown.  He indicated that the Google ad should be mainly focused on the parking garage and not necessarily the surrounding businesses.  Mayor Knudsen said that the goal should be to get regular visitors to Ridgewood to use the parking garage, such as visitors from Wyckoff, Upper Saddle River, Glen Rock, Ho-Ho-Kus, and Fair Lawn.  Councilman Vagianos mentioned that there are people from these towns who have basically “given up” on Ridgewood because of difficulty finding a parking space.  The target audience of this Google ad should be those people who used to come to Ridgewood, so that they know the parking situation is better at the current time.  He said that if the radius were reduced, then more ads could be generated in a more efficient manner.  Mr. Hansen agreed.

 

Councilman Vagianos mentioned that the cost of Google ads is very inexpensive and the Village would get a “good bang for a buck.”  Mayor Knudsen said that, even so, a budget needs to be set because the costs can add up pretty quickly.  Councilwoman Perron asked Councilman Vagianos what towns he would like to see captured within the radius.  He said he would prefer to look at a map in order to do so, but off the top of his head, he mentioned Fair Lawn, Glen Rock, Wyckoff, Upper Saddle River, Saddle River, Waldwick, Ho-Ho-Kus, Midland Park, Paramus, and Mahwah.  Mr. Hansen said that he would shrink the radius to cover those towns.

 

Mr. Hansen said that, based on the 18-mile radius, the Google ad package would cost $17.50 daily.  A reduced radius would cost less.  Google estimates between 640 and 1,740 clicks by visitors per month.  Councilman Vagianos stated that the cost for a reduced radius would be a moderate price, as compared to newspaper advertising.  Councilman Vagianos said that he would look at a map and contact Mr. Hansen and Ms. Mailander with the towns he would like to see included within the radius.  Ms. Mailander will share this information with the other Village Councilmembers.

 

Mr. Hansen said that he has been working on developing a parking map, based upon Google Maps.  He will supply it to Ms. Mailander, who will then distribute it to the Village Councilmembers.  He said that when he updated/corrected the address to 25 Hudson Street, he was able to also add pictures of each floor of the Hudson Street Garage, pictures of the exterior, etc.  He said that he has already received positive reviews from people who have parked in the garage.  Google informed him that the ad for the parking garage has already received over 1,000 clicks within three weeks.  Therefore, it is now a prominent figure on the map.  The more visitors that click on the ad and review it, the more prominent it will be on the Google Map as well.

 

Councilwoman Perron stated that when the “Parking” tile is clicked on the Village website, the first thing that comes up is “Monthly Parking.”  She feels that, since people are not commuting as much as they did prior to Covid, most people visit the website to find out about the garage or on-street parking, rather than about monthly parking.  She asked if the order of the informational topics under “Parking” could be changed to make the parking garage more prominent.  Mr. Hansen said that this can be accomplished, listing the parking options in order of duration, with daily parking options appearing first.

 

It was agreed that rather than advertising the free parking on the Village website, per Councilwoman Perron’s suggestion, the main focus will be on parking at the parking garage.  Ms. Mailander indicated that this matter will be placed on the agenda for July 6, 2022.

 

3.         PARKING SPACES ON MAPLE AVENUE FOR NEW RIDGEWOOD WATER OFFICES

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to parking spaces on North Maple Avenue in front of the new Ridgewood Water headquarters.  She stated that Mr. Rutishauser, Village Engineer, field measured the sizes of the parking spaces in front of the new building.  He believes that there is satisfactory room for the proposed parking spaces for the Ridgewood Water offices.

 

            B.        BUDGET

 

                        1.         SEWER INTEREST PAYMENTS ON DELINQUENT ACCOUNTS

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to sewer interest payments on delinquent accounts.  Governor Murphy issued an Executive Order (EO) related to interest-free payment plans for utility customers with delinquent balances who may have been financially impacted as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.   The Village was diligent in ensuring compliance with this EO for all delinquent Water Utility customers, but modifications to the billing process were not implemented for those customers with delinquent sewer balances.  As a result, several accounts were billed and customers paid interest on such balances.  In order to provide a remedy, there is a proposed resolution which will apply such overpayments to future billings.

 

2.         AWARD SOLE SOURCE CONTRACT – RESPIRATOR FIT TESTER – HEALTH DEPARTMENT

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the awarding of a Sole Source contract for a Respirator Fit Tester for the Ridgewood Health Department.  The Health Department has received a Strengthening Local Public Health Capacity grant from the New Jersey Office of Local Public Health (OLPH) to be used for purchasing tools and to better assist the community and Health Department with communicable diseases and ongoing duties.  The Health Department has budgeted for supplementing the Emergency Services Department with a Respirator Fit Tester machine that measures both quantitative N95 fit testing and P100 mask fit testing.  This fit tester will continue to assist the ongoing relationship with the Emergency Services Department and the need for accurate and proper fit testing needs to protect the health of the Police Department, Emergency Medical Services, and Village employees.  The Sole Source vendor is TSI of Shoreview, Minnesota, which is the only company that makes this dual use product, and the contract is in an amount not to exceed $15,225.00.  This entire amount will be paid for by grant funds.

 

3.         AWARD ADDITIONAL PROFESSIONAL SERVICES – PLANNING CONSULTING SERVICES GREEN ACRES DIVERSION

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to awarding an additional professional services contract for planning consulting services for the Green Acres Diversion.  Topology is the Village’s Professional Planning Consultant for the Green Acres Diversion.  It was discovered that a paper street proposed to be placed on the Recreation and Open Space Inventory (ROSI) as replacement open space land for the diversion had been previously placed on the ROSI.  After further communication with Green Acres, Topology has learned that this paper street may have been placed on the ROSI erroneously. 

 

To correct this issue, Topology will need to provide additional, previously unanticipated, services related to a potential ROSI amendment.  These additional services will be in an amount not to exceed $2,500.00.  They will begin the process of removing Marlborough Road from the ROSI and vacating it, after which time the land will be added to the compensation package as conservation/open space land.

 

There was a brief discussion about the original diversion issue which arose ten years ago and how ironic it was that now the Village has to spend taxpayer funds to correct the erroneous placement of this paper road on the ROSI.  This is not something which can be done in-house.  Ms. Mailander remarked how fortunate the Village is to have found Topology, since they work quite extensively with Green Acres.

 

4.         AWARD CONTRACT – RESTORATION AND STAINING LESTER’S STABLE

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that every few years, Request for Proposals are sent out for repair, restoration and refurbishment of the exterior wood siding and cedar roof of The Stable.  The scope of the work involved includes repairs to all wood siding, trim and soffits, power washing of all four exterior sides and the cedar roof, as well as the two cupolas and front pillars.  Two coats of oil-based stain will then be applied, in addition to the painting of all trim, doors and accents.  Three quotes were obtained, and it is recommended that the contract be awarded to Five Star Painting of Westwood, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $24,745.00.  Funding is in both the Capital and Operating Budgets.  Councilwoman Reynolds remarked that she thought this was a great price.

 

            C.        POLICY

 

                        1.         WINDOW DISPLAYS FOR VACANT STOREFRONTS

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to window displays for vacant storefronts in the CBD.  Councilman Vagianos recused himself from this discussion.  Mayor Knudsen said that it was important to move forward with this proposed ordinance.  She suggested creating a subcommittee to review the storefront window displays in question, including members of the Historic Preservation Commission, Project Pride Committee, Planning Board, and Central Business District Advisory Committee.

 

Mr. Rogers indicated that Councilwoman Perron brought to his attention that the word “attractive” in the proposed ordinance (B1) is too subjective.  By forming a subcommittee as suggested by Mayor Knudsen, that wording would not have to be used.  Instead, it could read “subject to approval and review of….”  In addition, Mr. Rogers stated that the subcommittee should be formed quickly so that too much time does not pass where the empty storefronts remain unsightly.  Councilwoman Perron remarked that she has noted in other ordinances that such approval and review is left up to the Building Department.  It was decided that a subcommittee would be formed since this matter doesn’t really come under the purview of either the Building or Zoning Department.

 

Regarding Section A3 of the ordinance, where it states “Window glass shall not be frosted or covered with paper, curtains or other material that block the window or display,” Mr. Rogers said that, obviously, if a display is approved, it is not desirable to have frosted glass or covering of any type.  However, he related two instances where frosted glass or covering was used when landlords or property owners were doing an interior build-out and they needed to protect tools and equipment from theft or vandalism.  The same scenario would apply to a new lessee doing interior construction for a new business.  Mr. Rogers said that some exceptions needed to be carved out in the ordinance regarding these types of situations. 

 

Councilwoman Perron added that the historic building on the corner of Ridgewood Avenue and Broad Street has a very large photograph on the glass.  She would like such a display to be added as a permissible window display for an empty storefront.  However, in B1 of the proposed ordinance, it reads that the displays must be “consistent with window display requirements of 190-122 E. (7) Window Displays.”  That section states that any window displays must be set back one foot from the window itself.  In that event, such a large photograph would be precluded.  Mayor Knudsen suggested that the sentence should simply read, “These displays shall contain local artwork, local school projects, or cultural/historic interpretative displays,” since these displays are meant to be temporary.

 

It was decided that the above corrections/additions would be made and the ordinance will be introduced shortly.  Mayor Knudsen mentioned that the registration form should be on file to ensure proper monitoring.  Councilwoman Perron asked if a citation could be inserted by the words “Property Maintenance Ordinance” by the question on the registration form which asks, “Do you agree to ensure that the exterior grounds of the property and exterior features of the building and/or storefront are clean and well-maintained and otherwise consistent with the requirements of the Property Maintenance Ordinance at all times?”  There was further discussion about the several bullet points on the registration form. 

 

Mayor Knudsen suggested making the questions into statements.  For instance, rather than asking, “Do you agree to ensure that all areas of the vacant storefront visible by the public from the public street or sidewalk are maintained in broom-clean condition and free of litter and debris at all times?” it should state “All areas of the vacant storefront visible by the public from the public street or sidewalk will be maintained in broom-clean condition and free of litter and debris at all times.”  There was further discussion regarding the font and formatting of the registration form, which need to be cleaned up.

 

            D.        OPERATIONS

 

                        1.         GRAYDON POOL HOURS

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that there is a proposal from Nancy Bigos, Director of Parks and Recreation, to reduce the hours of operation at Graydon Pool. She also introduced Steve Diamond, who has been the Manager of Graydon Pool for many years. 

 

Ms. Bigos stated that, administratively, all pools within the State of New Jersey, including Graydon Pool, are governed by the New Jersey State Department of Health.  The rules are contained in a 41-page document entitled “The New Jersey State Sanitary Code, Chapter 9, Public Recreational Bathing.”  On a municipal level, the Graydon Pool facility is inspected and licensed by professionals within the Ridgewood Health Department.  Graydon Pool currently possesses a satisfactory license.

 

As outlined by Katie Frey, CPO Recreation Supervisor, in her memorandum to the Village Manager dated June 7, 2022, the Village Parks and Recreation Department has continued to work steadfastly in a variety of different ways to hire lifeguards.  A Job Fair was held by the Parks and Recreation Department and Ridgewood High School recently, which was visited by 85 young adults.  The Parks and Recreation Department staff has met with the executive staff of the YMCA, discussing a collaborative effort utilizing training modules of both entities to train lifeguards.  A full-page ad has been taken out in the Bergen Record and The Ridgewood News.  There has been a myriad of posts on Facebook.  They have spoken to various groups in Ridgewood trying to find ways of hiring lifeguards for Graydon Pool. 

 

Ms. Bigos indicated that there is a lifeguard shortage nationwide, not just in Ridgewood.  As of last week, New York City closed all of its recreational swim programs, including instructional swim, lap programs, and adult swim, all due to the shortage of lifeguards. The safety and well-being of residents and pool patrons has always been, and will always be, the top priority for the Parks and Recreation Department staff.  Ms. Bigos and Ms. Frey have met with all pool management team members on several occasions to discuss solutions, to reprioritize programming, and to discuss safety measures.  This year, there are 496 children enrolled in the Summer Day Camp program.  The Parks and Recreation staff have spent countless hours discussing this issue with other municipalities and with the New Jersey Recreation and Parks Association, Aquatic Section, in an attempt to arrive at solutions.

 

Ms. Bigos stated that the proposal sent to the Village Manager of June 7, 2022 is an old proposal.  Traditionally, Graydon Pool would have 36 full-time lifeguards and 12 part-time lifeguards.  This allowed for two overlapping shifts of supervision.  Ten lifeguards would arrive early in the morning for the first shift and set up the facility, working until 4:00 P.M.  The second shift would arrive at 1:00 P.M., allowing the first shift lifeguards to have lunch and some downtime during the afternoon, which Ms. Bigos indicated was the busiest time of the day at Graydon.  There are currently only 15 to 20 lifeguards who are employed.

 

To ensure safety, Ms. Bigos thinks it is best to go down to a single shift, utilizing eight lifeguards to work a full eight hours.  She is proposing to cut the hours during which Graydon Pool is open. She admitted that it will be tough for the lifeguards to work eight straight hours without a lengthy break. However, this will allow the pool to remain open daily.  Ms. Bigos said that she and her staff are recommending new hours be instituted and the pool swim zones reconfigured.

 

Mayor Knudsen asked for clarification as to how many lifeguards are currently employed at Graydon Pool.  Mr. Diamond replied that he has been the Manager of Graydon Pool since 2006, starting as a lifeguard when he was 15 years old (he is now 45 years old).  When he began working at Graydon, there were 28 lifeguards working five-day-a-week shifts and 15 part-time lifeguards working three to four days a week.  There are currently 20 lifeguards, with six of them working five days a week.  The remainder of the lifeguards have chosen to work between two to four days a week, due to other obligations such as sports, other jobs, or internships. 

 

To ensure the safety of both patrons and staff and to avoid liability, Mr. Diamond is proposing that hours of operation remain in effect daily, from 12:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M., with day camp hours between 10:00 A.M. and 12:00 P.M. until August 6, 2022.  Staff will arrive at 8:50 A.M., seven days a week.  This allows time to set up the facility and do pre-inspectional checks.  The majority of the deep water area, the kiddie pool and the shallow section will remain open until 6:00 P.M.  During the weekdays at 6:00 P.M., the shallow section, kiddie pool and all of the deep-water docks will shut down.  Between 6:00 P.M. and 7:00 P.M., Monday through Friday, there will be extended lap swim times.  This schedule would allow for a deep-water rescue team to practice diving for distressed swimmers.  This schedule also accommodates families who want to bring their young children to swim in the morning hours.  The pool hours are normally from 10:00 A.M. to 7:30 P.M.  On the weekends, the pool would be open from 10:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M.  Mr. Diamond indicated that this is a “fluid” schedule, with more hours able to be added as more staff is hired.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds asked where the six additional lifeguards came from, and Ms. Bigos replied that she wasn’t sure but that it was probably as a result of their extensive outreach.  They sent notices to William Paterson University, Montclair University, and the Bergen Barracudas.  Mr. Diamond added that orientation for new lifeguards normally takes 16 hours to complete, but new lifeguards are being trained in eight hours.  Some new candidates are not able to pass the pre-requisite swim test.

 

When questioned by Councilwoman Reynolds, Mr. Diamond indicated that most lifeguards would work from 8:50 A.M. to 6:00 P.M., with approximately an additional half-hour of post-closure cleanup, inspections, and equipment inventory.  They were working from 8:50 A.M. to 8:00 P.M., even though the current schedule is admittedly still a long day.  Under the new schedule, lifeguards would not be able to leave the facility during the day, but will get breaks to eat.  Mr. Diamond said that although the pool would close at 6:00 P.M., they are not going to be announcing the closure or actively ushering people out.  Patrons can remain sitting on the beach if they so choose but cannot remain in the water.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds asked what the lifeguards are paid, if they are paid equally, and whether the pay rate is competitive with other municipalities.  Ms. Bigos replied that she sent an employee action form last week to the Village Manager and Mr. Rooney, Chief Financial Officer, requesting a $3.00 per hour raise across the board for all pool staff.  Councilman Vagianos asked what the pay rate would be after the raise, and Ms. Bigos replied that it varies but that most lifeguards are starting at $16.00 per hour.  Some veteran lifeguards are paid $25.00 per hour.  Councilwoman Reynolds remarked that a $16.00 starting salary sounds extremely low.  Mr. Diamond remarked that he is a member of the Pool Managers Association, and he believes that the Village is paying its lifeguards more than other towns.  Some municipalities with clear bottom pools are starting at $14.00 per hour.

 

Recalling comments made during this evening’s public comments, Mayor Knudsen recalled the comment made by Ms. Schreiber that the lifeguard shifts were too long.  She wondered whether better pay would motivate a lifeguard to work a longer shift.  Mr. Diamond replied that more pay would not motivate his staff to work longer hours.  They would rather be part of a larger team for safety reasons and work singular shifts, during which they can focus better rather than work under duress.

 

Regarding Mr. Holden’s earlier comment that some lifeguards are tasked with the duties of cleaning bathrooms, Mayor Knudsen asked if this was a deterrent to a lifeguard.  Mr. Diamond replied that the lifeguards are not cleaning bathrooms this year.  However, some basic maintenance needs to be performed at the end of the day, such as emptying garbage cans.  He said that he used to clean bathrooms as part of his duties, but he stated that this is not required on a daily basis.  The American Red Cross Lifeguard Manual designates secondary and tertiary responsibilities, which do affect the lifeguard staff at Graydon Pool.

 

Mayor Knudsen asked what hours are currently budgeted for on a weekly basis for lifeguards and what portion of that budget is actually being used.  If there is a significant gap between what was budgeted for and what is actually being utilized, then there may be some negotiation flexibility when discussing hours and pay with lifeguards.  Ms. Bigos replied that they will definitely be overextending the budget in 2022.  The minimum wage for the State of New Jersey continues to climb, which has made a dramatic difference in what the staff is paid.  The staff also get incremental raises based upon their longevity.  In addition, those who step up in a leadership capacity are paid more as shift leaders.  Ms. Bigos described several of the responsibilities of shift leaders. 

 

Mayor Knudsen again asked how many lifeguard hours are currently budgeted for on a weekly basis, and wondered if more money could be found to incentivize potential lifeguard candidates.  She mentioned that she was shopping at Nordstrom’s Rack the other day and they are advertising positions which pay $20.00 an hour.  Mayor Knudsen emphasized that these important life-saving jobs must be made attractive with better pay. 

 

Ms. Bigos replied that there are several variables involved, including the number of staff during the pre-season, early season and regular season.  The early season at Graydon Pool has abbreviated hours during the week.  Regular season begins on Monday, June 27, 2022 and Ms. Bigos is hopeful that many graduating seniors and high school juniors will be joining the staff, as well as college students.  The college students usually leave during the first week in August.  High school athletes have commitments and sometimes leave during the latter part of the season.  These are the reasons why it is hard to predict what the staff levels will be during any part of the summer months.  There was further discussion regarding the number of hours worked per week and the hourly rate. 

 

Ms. Bigos said that she would like the opportunity to look at the budget and arrive at more concrete answers for the Village Council.  Mayor Knudsen said that if less lifeguards are working, there should be money available in the budget to offer a higher salary to potential candidates. 

 

Councilwoman Reynolds asked if work could begin now to find lifeguards for the month of August, when college kids are returning to sports activities and/or college studies.  Mr. Diamond indicated that he would be working on the scheduling soon for August. 

 

Mayor Knudsen asked if the Parks and Recreation Department could reach out to former lifeguards to see if they would be interested in working, even though they may be older.  Mr. Diamond remarked that the very rigorous waterfront lifeguarding course takes about 46 hours to complete.  This course has to be taken every two years.  Mr. Diamond indicated that the lifeguards would prefer shorter eight-hour shifts as opposed to more pay per hour, with breaks for lunch.  They can also “shift their field of vision” rather than sit in the same chair all day.  Ms. Mailander said that she understood why the shorter shifts would be more amenable to the lifeguards, since they would be less stressed out and tired.  She agrees that the budget should be analyzed to see if any money is available.

 

Ms. Mailander asked whether every area of the pool would be open with the eight-hour shifts.  Mr. Diamond replied that the areas which will be open is the deep water area in front of the manager’s office, the docks, the high dive, the far side of the pool for lessons, the kiddie pool, and the shallow water section by Linwood Avenue.  The areas which will not be open will be the area by the pavilion (Stands 7 and 8).  However, patrons will still have access to the handicapped area.  When swim lessons end, they could potentially open Stand 7, which is by the picnic area where the grills are located.  Most of the deep water amenities will be open.

 

Councilman Vagianos asked how many guards are needed for the deep water rescue team.  Mr. Diamond replied that four lifeguards are needed for a surface rescue.  For a surface dive, when someone is under the water, a minimum of six lifeguards are needed, which they would not be able to satisfy at the current time.  Councilman Vagianos asked how many lifeguards will be on duty at any one time according to the new proposed schedule.  Mr. Diamond replied that, for the next six weeks, there will be between 10 and 13 lifeguards available in a single shift.  He said that this is about five less than the required amount.  Councilman Vagianos asked whether there was an adequate number of guards to ensure the safety of patrons.  Mr. Diamond replied that he would only open enough sections to make the premises safe.  He mentioned that when his guards are taken care of, they are less stressed out, feel better about coming to work, and will provide better surveillance to the patrons.

 

Mayor Knudsen asked for clarification about how many lifeguards are currently employed.  Mr. Diamond said there are approximately 20 guards on the distribution list.  There are one or two newer employees whose paperwork is still being processed.  Mayor Knudsen sought again to clarify how many lifeguards are actually on the Village payroll.  When Mayor Knudsen asked whether the six new lifeguards are actually employed at the current time, Ms. Bigos stated that she was not sure, although she knows that Mr. Diamond has trained three of them.

 

Mr. Diamond emphasized that there are only six lifeguards who have committed to working five full-time days per week.  There was further discussion seeking to clarify exactly how many lifeguards are employed at the pool.  Mr. Diamond added that they are currently between 65% to 70% understaffed at the pool.  Councilwoman Reynolds asked if any of the six new applicants wanted to work full time, and Mr. Diamond replied in the negative.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds recalled Ms. Bigos mentioning that she posted the need for lifeguards on Facebook.  She asked whether Ms. Bigos had posted on different Facebook groups, such as Ridgewood Moms and Dads or the Village of Ridgewood, since she doesn’t recall ever seeing such a post.  Ms. Bigos said that she can certainly post on the different Ridgewood Facebook groups. 

 

Mayor Knudsen recalled earlier comments by Mr. DellaTorre that the Village should allow children under the age of 16 to attend the pool without a parent or adult supervision, so that they will perhaps eventually desire to become a lifeguard at the pool.  She stated that she wholly agreed with Mr. DellaTorre, as long as they conduct themselves in a responsibility manner.  She asked whether this would be an option, and she wondered what the youngest age of a lifeguard is. 

 

Mr. Diamond replied that the youngest age of a lifeguard is 16 at a waterfront facility and 15 at a clear-bottom pool.  He said that he is very open to discussing this issue, but the facilities which allow 13- and 14-year-olds to be present without an adult are completely secured, with one way in and one way out, and are clear-bottom swimming pools.  These young adults cannot leave such facilities and be unaccounted for, whereas Graydon has many variables which other pools do not have.  He said that he has had parents try to drop off eight-year-old children because they want to have a barbecue.  Mr. Diamond said that he has a responsibility to everyone, and the lifeguards cannot be used as babysitters.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds asked if the 16-year-old requirement has ever changed at Graydon, and Mr. Diamond replied that it has not in the 30 years he has worked there.  Ms. Bigos indicated that the age hasn’t changed, but the enforcement levels have, especially when they are short staffed.  Councilwoman Reynolds stated that she grew up in Fair Lawn and basically “lived” at Memorial Pool all summer during the ages of 14 and 15.  She asked Mr. Diamond if he knew what the minimum age is at Memorial Pool where a young adult can be present without a parent.  Mr. Diamond said that he would have to find that out.

 

Councilman Vagianos stated that he has experience employing young people at his restaurant, and that times have greatly changed in the past 25 years.  He used to receive dozens of applications for employment, and employees would return year after year.  However, today, he has trouble finding people to work, despite placing numerous ads on various sites and college bulletin boards.  He said that it is not only young adults, but older people as well, who do not want to work.  He used to employ six waiters, but now only employs two.

 

Councilman Vagianos mentioned that he has heard from some of the patrons at Graydon Pool that some of the lifeguard staff have not been treated with the respect they deserve.  He asked Mr. Diamond how accurate that allegation is.  Mr. Diamond replied that it is true, but he stated that he is not paying his staff for their charming personalities but rather paying them to be excellent lifeguards.  He has tried to teach them to let stuff roll off their shoulders and, if there is an incident which needs attention, they should let Mr. Diamond handle it.  With this new proposal, he is trying to retain the existing lifeguards for next year while at the same time showing them that he wants to treat them respectfully and protect them.

 

Councilman Vagianos asked what the policy is at Graydon Pool when a patron is abusive to a staff member.  Mr. Diamond replied that the patron would be told to leave and they could possibly lose any future privileges of attending the pool.  Councilman Vagianos said that he would strongly urge Mr. Diamond to strictly enforce such a policy.  In his business, patrons are asked to leave or the police are called if they do not cease being abusive.  He said that everyone makes mistakes, but that does not give anyone a license to be abusive, especially to young adults.  Councilman Vagianos urged the Village Manager to make this a zero-tolerance policy.  Ms. Mailander agreed with him completely.

 

Mayor Knudsen also agreed but stated that it is important to have clear scheduling, hours, and rules pertaining to which sections of the pool are open or closed.  She mentioned that such rules could be incorporated into the Recycle Coach application, whereby push notifications could alert patrons as to the hours and open/closed sections of Graydon Pool at any given time.  This way patrons know what to expect and there are no surprises.  Mr. Diamond said that such notifications would be helpful, especially regarding Saturdays which is the busiest day at Graydon. 

 

Councilman Vagianos indicated that he was very impressed with the proposal submitted by Ms. Bigos and Mr. Diamond.  Ms. Mailander also expressed her thanks to Ms. Bigos and Mr. Diamond.  All Village Councilmembers present at the meeting expressed agreement with the new schedule proposed by the Parks and Recreation Department.  Ms. Bigos will review the budget, Mr. Diamond and Ms. Bigos will continue their outreach efforts for lifeguards, and Mr. Diamond will send the schedule to Ms. Bigos and Ms. Frey.  The schedule can be posted on the website, at Graydon Pool, on Community Pass, on Facebook, and also updated on the Recycle Coach app.  Mayor Knudsen suggested a “lifeguard in training” program for 14- and 15-year-olds.  Mr. Diamond said that, in past years, there has been a junior lifeguarding program, and he will look into resurrecting this program.

 

                        2.         CHANGE IN TITLES AS PER OLPH STRENGTHENING GRANT

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to title changes for two existing employees in the Health Department.  For the third year of the Strengthening Local Public Health Capacity grant from the New Jersey Office of Local Public Health (OLPH), which begins July 1, 2022 and expires June 30, 2023, the Covid Generalist title will change to Infectious Disease Preparedness Generalist and the Vulnerable Population Outreach Coordinator will change to Local Health Outreach Coordinator.  Ms. Mailander said that the titles will probably need to be changed in the White Collar Salary Ordinance.  She will look into this to see if an amendment is necessary.

 

3.         AUTHORIZE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING AGREEMENT WITH BERGEN COUNTY FOR LEAD POISONING SERVICES

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the authorization of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Agreement with Bergen County for the Childhood Lead Exposure Prevention Project.  The Bergen County Department of Health Services received a grant from the New Jersey Department of Health, which enables the County to provide lead poisoning services to all 70 towns within Bergen County.  This agreement is valid for 36 months, from July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2025.  Bergen County has drafted an MOU for all Bergen County towns, and they ask that it be signed within 30 days of the original agreement (July 1, 2022).  There is no cost to the Village for the grant.  The Village has been utilizing this MOU since 2019 and it has been successful. 

 

Councilwoman Perron stated to the viewers of the meeting that if they are planning to erect a swing set or a playscape on their property and their house was built before 1978, there is a chance that there is lead paint which has leeched into the soil from their home and adjoining structures.  Homeowners can get their soil tested for free by Bergen County.

 

6.         COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, thanked the Village Councilmembers for their detailed and insightful discussion regarding Graydon Pool this evening.  She also thanked Mr. Diamond and Ms. Bigos for their efforts.

 

Denise Lima, 319 East Glen Avenue, thanked the Village Councilmembers for all that they do for the residents of Ridgewood. She acknowledged how lengthy this evening’s meeting was.  Regarding the proposed ordinance for window displays in empty storefronts, she thanked everyone for developing the ordinance.  However, she does not feel that enough emphasis is being placed on the historic nature of some of the buildings in the CBD.  She sees a lot of multicolored, uncharacteristic things which she doesn’t feel fit well into the CBD.  Some restaurants have oversized lights that do not look professional.  There is a new building which has about 20 strings of artificial flowers hanging off of its façade.  She asked that the Village Council spend some time to consider the historic nature of the downtown area when dealing with the new proposed ordinance for window displays.

 

Regarding the large Hudson Street Garage Wayfinding Signs, Ms. Lima said that they are entirely too big.  She feels that these large signs will create safety issues on the corners where it is proposed they be erected.  She said that the signs are “polluting” and not historic in any way. However, she acknowledged that signs are needed to alert drivers to the location of the parking garage.

 

Ms. Lima agreed with Councilwoman Reynolds that there is a need in the CBD for more short-term parking (15-minute meters).  She personally uses these spaces all the time to run quick errands at the UPS store, restaurants, and dry cleaning.  She mentioned that there is adequate parking in the parking garage for longer-term visits to the CBD.

 

She asked Ms. Mailander if she kept any statistics of how many times Village Councilmembers recuse themselves from discussions, and how this affects their effectiveness as a Councilmember.  She feels that certain Councilmembers recuse themselves a lot.

 

Regarding the Master Plan, Ms. Lima indicated that she has a Facebook page printout from August 2, 2017 which states that the first meeting regarding the Master Plan was being held.  She mentioned that there is nothing on the Village website regarding the current status of the Master Plan.  She is interested in receiving an update.  She asked what is being proposed with East Glen Avenue, whether or not it is being designated as a historic section, as well as the Old Paramus Church, the Ackerman House, and the Zabriskie-Schedler House.  Ms. Lima stated that these areas are where the Village first started being developed and they are the most historic areas in Ridgewood.  She is also interested in the enforcement of the policies regarding land use.

 

Boyd A. Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that he is very pleased with tonight’s discussion regarding Graydon Pool and the plan presented by Mr. Diamond and Ms. Bigos.  He is glad that the hours will not be changing too much.  He is hopeful that there will be a pay increase for the lifeguards at the pool, depending upon the budget.  He mentioned that when this year’s season ends at Graydon Pool, he would like the Village Councilmembers to review the ordinance which designates Graydon as a park, thereby allowing people to enjoy the park in the off season.  He recalled that the Village Manager told him that people were removed from the pool because they were in the water.  Afterwards, he was contacted by someone who stated that she was ejected from the pool in the winter by the police when there was no water in the pool.  He asked for clarification and an update of the antiquated ordinance.

 

Regarding the proposed parking space changes in front of the new Ridgewood Water headquarters, Mr. Loving said that he was dead set against them.  He believes that if that building had been taken over by a private owner, and the private owner asked the Village Council for reserved parking spaces in front of their building, the Village Council would have denied such a request.  In this day and age, when most people are paying their bills electronically or over the phone, he doesn’t feel that there will be many people who will use these reserved spaces in front of the new building.  He said that this will clog up the street and create visibility issues by the nearby crosswalk.  Mr. Loving said that if there is a need for anyone to physically pay their bill, he doesn’t understand why they can’t pay their bill at the Tax Collector’s Office, which he believes can be done.  He stated that if special parking spaces are going to be designated in front of the building, then they should be strictly for handicapped people only.

 

There were no further comments from the public.

 

Mayor Knudsen said there is presently a draft of the Master Plan developed.  They just today received information from the Land Conservancy of New Jersey for the Open Space portion of the Master Plan.  It will come before the Planning Board shortly.

 

Regarding Mr. Loving’s comments about Graydon Park, Mayor Knudsen stated that the relevant ordinance will be placed on the next Work Session agenda for discussion.  It was always her understanding that the park is open to the public during the off-season months.

 

7.         RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION

 

Deputy Clerk Eileen Young read Resolution #22-242, to go into Closed Session as follows:

8.         ADJOURNMENT

 

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilwoman Reynolds, seconded by Deputy Mayor Sedon, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Work Session was adjourned at 11:13 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 AUGUST 10, 2022 AT 8:00 P.M.

 

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

 

Mayor Knudsen called the meeting to order at 8:01 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act.  At roll call the following were present:  Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, 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 the service of 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 July 31, 2022 be accepted as submitted.  Councilwoman Perron seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   Councilwoman Reynolds

 

3.         APPROVAL OF MINUTES

 

Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Council minutes of May 4, May 25, June 1, June 22, and July 13, 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, Sedon, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

 

 

4.      PROCLAMATIONS

 

A.                DECLARE SEPTEMBER OVARIAN CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

 

Councilman Vagianos read the following proclamation:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

B.               DECLARE SEPTEMBER NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon read the following proclamation:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.      SWEARING-IN OF POLICE OFFICERS WILLIAM MALONE AND CHRISTOPHER SCHUMANN

 

Mayor Knudsen asked William Malone to come forward to be sworn in as Police Officer for the Ridgewood Police Department.  She asked all Councilmembers to join her at the podium.  Mayor Knudsen then swore in Police Officer William Malone, as his mother held the Bible.  There was a resounding round of applause.

 

Mayor Knudsen asked Christopher Schumann to come forward to be sworn in as Police Officer for the Ridgewood Police Department.  With all Councilmembers at the podium, Mayor Knudsen swore in Police Officer Christopher Schumann, as his son held the Bible and his wife and other children looked on.  There was a resounding round of applause.

 

6.         COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

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

 

Gerry Maurer, 137 Hope Street, stated that he was attending this evening’s meeting with several of his neighbors who have been affected by flooding issues over the past year or so, due to stormwater drainage problems in the areas of Hope Street, Spring Avenue and Dayton Street.  Mr. Maurer thanked Mayor Knudsen, the Village Councilmembers, Ms. Mailander, and Christopher Rutishauser, Village Engineer, for developing and implementing the ordinance tonight regarding drainage remediation.  This ordinance will allocate monies towards alleviating some of the flooding issues being experienced repeatedly by Mr. Maurer and his neighbors.  However, since the ordinance does not specifically set forth the exact areas where the drainage improvements will take place or the nature of the work, Mr. Maurer asked that he and his neighbors be furnished information by Mr. Rutishauser which sets forth greater detail on the locations where the work will take place and what type of work will be performed.  He feels that he and his neighbors can give Mr. Rutishauser and his staff some valuable input into the flooding situation.

 

Anne Burton Walsh, 112 South Irving Street, thanked the Village Councilmembers for looking into the issue of trees being removed in the Village due to sidewalk construction, and the fact that these trees can be saved with the use of sidewalk round-outs and ramp-ups.  She is hopeful that the Village Councilmembers’ decisions will not place undue financial burden on homeowners.  Ms. Walsh mentioned that she heard from a neighbor that some homeowners are not even waiting for the Village Arborist or Village approval before undertaking tree removals, although she has not been able to personally verify this.  Ms. Walsh fears that if the Village requires homeowners to construct sidewalk adjustments such as round-outs or ramp-ups in order to save a tree, homeowners will just go ahead and raze a tree rather than pay the additional costs.  She mentioned that healthy mature trees are a vital part of the Village infrastructure, as acknowledged by the draft of the proposed Master Plan.  She feels that solutions, such as round-outs and ramp-ups, to save these Village assets should be paid for through the Village’s tree-related budgets.  This is because saving trees will save money for the Village, since it will probably cost more to remove a tree and plant a new one, than to create a round-out or ramp-up.

 

Denise Lima, 319 East Glen Avenue, stated that the Fourth of July celebration was wonderful, including the parade and fireworks.  She mentioned that many people have been enjoying the outdoor sidewalk dining in the Central Business District (CBD) and swimming at Graydon Pool.  Ms. Lima mentioned that she was happy to hear the Proclamation read this evening declaring September as Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.  She stated that she is a nine-year survivor of ovarian cancer, a disease which has very little forewarning symptoms.  She encourages all women to get checked constantly for this insidious disease, because early detection leads to survival from ovarian cancer.

 

Ms. Lima said that she has not yet noted anything in the Master Plan regarding historic preservation. She sees different colors on buildings in the CBD and ornamental flowers hanging from buildings, so she is eagerly awaiting to see the proposed Master Plan on the Village website.  Ms. Lima stated that she would like to see more “bridging” in conversations between the Planning Board and the Village Council.  Variances that are approved through the Planning Board should be enforced by the Code Enforcement Official or engineers.  However, Ms. Lima stated that there isn’t a “solid” policy in the Village Code regarding guidelines for inspection or enforcement, once variances are granted.  She expressed dismay that she has not received answers to her numerous emails regarding this issue.

 

There were no further comments from the public.

 

Regarding Ms. Walsh’s comments, Mayor Knudsen indicated that she has requested Ms. Mailander to add the tree/sidewalk issue to an upcoming Work Session agenda for discussion. 

 

Mayor Knudsen asked Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney, to address Ms. Lima’s concerns that once a variance is approved, there doesn’t seem to be any follow-up inspection to make sure that the property owner is abiding by the requirements/criteria set forth in the approved variance.  Mr. Rogers said that according to the Municipal Land Use Law, the enforcement of Planning Board or Zoning Board application approvals and conditions is the responsibility of the Zoning Officer in a municipality.  In Ridgewood, Mr. Rogers said that the Village’s Code Enforcement Official needs to make sure that a property owner adheres to the conditions upon which a variance is granted, especially if there are some “worrisome or troublesome” conditions contingent upon that approval.  He said that the Planning Board could give the official a “heads-up” if such a variance is granted.  Mayor Knudsen added that the specific matter of concern to Ms. Lima is going back to the Planning Board in September for discussion.

 

 

7.         VILLAGE MANAGER’S REPORT

 

Ms. Mailander stated that the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) has issued a statewide “drought watch” as of August 9, 2022.  All residents and businesses are urged to voluntarily conserve water, as persistent hot and dry conditions impact available water supplies.  If conditions do not improve, the NJDEP will be forced to escalate from the current “drought watch” to “drought warning” or “drought emergency” classifications, which would implement mandatory water use restrictions statewide. 

 

Ms. Mailander stated that while Ridgewood Water is currently at Stage II water restrictions of its water regulations, ongoing dry conditions with very little precipitation will continue to burden the system.  To avoid going into further restrictions, all customers are asked to limit irrigation and comply with existing water regulations.  Water conservation resources are available via the NJDEP’s website at https://dep.nj.gov/conserve-water or on Ridgewood Water’s website at https://water.ridgewoodnj.net/water-conservation.

 

Ms. Mailander thanked all Village departments who participated in the “Touch a Truck” event which was held concurrently during the Sidewalk Sale Days.  She said that the event was enjoyed by all who attended.

 

Ms. Mailander confirmed that Graydon Pool will be open through Labor Day, including the last week of August, following the current hours of operation.  This information is also posted on the Village website.  She reminded everyone that Graydon Pool information is now included in the Recycle Coach app.  Those residents who wish to receive Graydon Pool notifications should check the appropriate box to make sure that they receive real-time updates.

 

Ms. Mailander announced that tennis and pickleball memberships are available through Community Pass.  Hours for both sports are from 8:00 A.M. to dusk.

 

Ms. Mailander announced that the nominating petition packets for the Ridgewood Village Council are now available in the Village Clerk’s Office between 8:30 A.M. and 4:30 P.M., Monday through Friday.  The packet may be picked up by any registered voters who wish to run for the two open Village Council seats. The Village Council is nonpartisan and voting will occur during the Municipal Election at the November 8, 2022 General Election. The deadline for filing completed nominating petitions is September 6, 2022 at 4:00 P.M.  The newly elected Councilmembers will be sworn in and take office in January, 2023.  Anyone with questions should contact Eileen Young, Deputy Village Clerk, or Ms. Mailander in the Village Clerk’s Office.

 

Current employment and volunteer opportunities are posted on the Village website at www.ridgewoodnj.net.  Ms. Mailander indicated that the Village Council is seeking volunteers to serve on the Green Ridgewood Committee, the Ridgewood Green Team Advisory Committee and Project Pride.  The deadline to apply is Friday, August 12, 2022.  The Village is also seeking laborers to pick up yard waste and leaves, as well as for sanitation and recycling.  The pay is $20.00 an hour, which increases to $22.00 an hour if the person hired has a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

 

Ms. Mailander gave an update regarding the Zabriskie-Schedler house.  There was a meeting this morning.  Construction materials are scheduled to arrive this week and construction is tentatively scheduled to begin next week.  There is currently no update regarding the Schedler property.  The Village is waiting for a response from the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) regarding their approval of the Village’s modifications to the plans for the property, which were sent to SHPO approximately 10 to 14 days ago.

 

Regarding the repaving of County roads in the Village (Franklin Avenue, Godwin Avenue, Linwood Avenue and Goffle Road), Ms. Mailander announced that these roads are all in Bergen County’s “Contract 3,” which was awarded to Tilcon by the County.  However, the County is waiting for information from Tilcon for the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) to review.   A pre-construction meeting will then be held and approval must be obtained from the NJDOT in order for road resurfacing to commence.  Ms. Mailander said that the County has indicated that they hope the paving can be done this year, but there is no guarantee.  Ms. Mailander indicated that she will follow up with them in mid-September, at which time the County should have additional updates.

 

The Ridgewood Guild has been sponsoring free movies in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square on Wednesday nights.  The final movie of the season, “All About Eve” will be shown on August 24^th at 9:00 P.M.  Admission is free and everyone should bring a chair or blanket to sit on. 

 

The Ridgewood Guild is also sponsoring “Music in the Night” for its 13^th season.  These events will be held in various locations in the Central Business District (CBD), on Friday nights through Labor Day. 

 

All Village offices and departments will be closed on September 5, 2022 in observance of Labor Day.  There will be no recycling or garbage pickup on that day, and the Recycling Center will also be closed.

 

The Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce will be sponsoring their Car Show on September 9, 2022 from 6:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. from East Ridgewood Avenue to Chestnut Street.  Ms. Mailander stated that this is a great car show, and one of the major shows of this type in this area of New Jersey.  She urged everyone to attend.

 

“Coffee with the Council” will be held on September 10, 2022 from 10:00 A.M. to 12 noon at The Lester Stable.  This is a good time for new residents to meet with the Village Councilmembers in an informal setting.

The Ridgewood Guild “Music Fest” will be held on September 11, 2022 from 1:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square.  There will be several bands, a beer garden, and a variety of food for sale.  Residents should bring a chair or blanket to sit on.

 

The Farmer’s Market is celebrating its 22^nd anniversary.  They will be open on Sundays from 8:30 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. on the west side of the Ridgewood Train Station parking lot, through late October or early November 2022.

 

Village Council meetings are broadcast live from the Village Hall Courtroom, on the Village website, and Channel 34 on Fios.  Upcoming Work Sessions will be held on September 7, September 28, and October 3, 2022 at 7:30 P.M.  The next Public Meeting will be held on September 14, 2022 at 8:00 P.M.

 

8.         VILLAGE COUNCIL REPORTS

 

Councilwoman Perron indicated that the Chamber of Commerce held its Sidewalk Sale Days this weekend.  There was a theme of “Stay-Cation” in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square.  There were performances by School of Rock, two dance demonstrations by Heart of Motion and the Arthur Murray Dance Studio, as well as “Chalk the Walk.”  At this morning’s Chamber of Commerce Directors Meeting, it was mentioned that the Sidewalk Sale Days were successful, at least on the west side of town, although attendance was low due to the extremely hot weather.  It was also mentioned that some people were dismayed at the weeds they noted in the CBD.  It was felt that more enforcement should be done pursuant to Ordinances 249-24 and 249-2.

 

Councilwoman Perron said that plans are already underway for “Downtown for the Holidays.”  The committee is seeking corporate sponsors.  At the Chamber of Commerce meeting, there was a discussion about inflation and how it is affecting businesses in the Village.  Shipping costs have doubled and merchants are desperately trying not to pass along the rising costs to their customers.

 

“Feed the Frontlines,” another Chamber of Commerce initiative, will be restarting on September 19, 2022.  She encouraged Ridgewood residents to volunteer as drivers.  Interested individuals may sign up on Facebook at “Feed the Frontlines.”

 

Councilman Vagianos and Councilwoman Reynolds both indicated that they had nothing to report this evening.

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon announced that the Shade Tree Commission met on August 9, 2022.  He said that residents will begin to see a flurry of activity in the Village, regarding trees.  Some work which has been performed is relative to removal of ash trees which have been diseased by the emerald ash borer.  There are 175 trees slated to be taken down this year, and most of this work has already been completed.  Tree plantings will begin this fall.  A total of 88 trees will be planted in the CBD, which has gone out for bid. 

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon indicated that much research has been done over the years by the Shade Tree Commission to determine the best way to plant new trees.  There will be a perforated tube that goes into the ground to allow additional water to reach the roots of the trees.  The soil will be completely excavated, including stump grinding.  All trees will be double-staked and will have 15-gallon “gator bags” on them to allow the trees to flourish with extra watering.  All of these conditions will be included in the bid. 

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that he drives through the CBD every day and has noticed the staff watering the trees which are currently there.  Root guards will also be placed on the trees planted in the CBD and throughout residential areas.  The root guard is a plastic shield that will be angled away from the tree and towards the sidewalk in the hope that the tree roots will hit the shield and then grow downward, deeper into the soil, and hence deeper under the sidewalk, rather than shallowly growing along the surface.  This will hopefully prevent fewer tree/sidewalk “confrontations.”  Deputy Mayor Sedon also announced that there were 25 mature trees saved this year by constructing bump-outs, round-outs, or ramp-overs, or a combination thereof.  He stated that the Village Council has allocated approximately $630,000.00 to the Shade Tree Department this year.

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon remarked that when he first sat on the Shade Tree Commission, there were no new tree plantings taking place in the Village.  There had actually been a moratorium on tree planting at that time, because so many trees were destroyed by Hurricanes Sandy and Irene.  However, the first year he was a member of the Shade Tree Commission, they successfully got 25 trees to plant.  He said that in the eight years since, the Village has planted approximately 1,400 trees throughout the Village.  He praised the dedicated efforts of the members of the Shade Tree Department, the Parks Department, the Village Manager, and especially the members of the Shade Tree Commission, led by its Chair, Andrew Lowry.  He said that there was no doubt that people like trees, and he is honored to be able to serve on the Shade Tree Commission, which has “grown” tremendously since he first joined.

 

Mayor Knudsen mentioned that in 2014, when committees were being formed after the newly elected Village Council was seated, Deputy Mayor Sedon rose to the occasion by joining all of the “green” committees.  She said that Deputy Mayor Sedon deserves a lot of credit for being the Village’s “tree advocate” and for all of his hard work in beautifying the Village.  There was a round of applause from the audience.

Mayor Knudson said that the Master Plan Subcommittee, comprised of Mayor Knudsen, Richard Joel (Chairman of the Planning Board), Melanie Hooban (Class IV member of Planning Board), and Diane O’Brien (member of Planning Board and Historic Preservation Commission) is finalizing last-minute edits to the Master Plan, which is a huge document.  An email went out this morning asking for any last-minute changes or corrections before it is posted on the Village website.

Regarding the Schedler property, Mayor Knudsen indicated that she was excited about the progress being made.  She reminded everyone that the Schedler application is subject to the jurisdiction of the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), which has to review and approve the plans for the property.  Mayor Knudsen said that the Village has avoided any encroachments, which she stated was a huge feat. Last year it was decided to trifurcate the application to make it more manageable for SHPO.  It is anticipated that the field and the rest of the plans will be approved shortly.  Funds have already been allocated.

 

Mayor Knudsen said that the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) meets tomorrow night in the Garden Room, with two applications on the agenda: a sign application for Montana Barber Shop, which will open at 136 East Ridgewood Avenue, and an application for Kenya Flower Shop regarding a proposed color change to a previously approved sign, as well as a proposed blade sign.  Mayor Knudsen mentioned that the Village has a Blade Sign Ordinance and stated that such signs add an historic ambience to the CBD.  She mentioned that she will not be attending the meeting (due to her mother’s 86^th birthday celebration), so Joe Suplicki will be handling the taking of the meeting minutes.

 

Mayor Knudsen 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.  The fashion show is always a hit, which features several children with various abilities modeling their favorite outfits.  The weekend will also include a brief video presentation.  The Community Fair will be held, and the weekend will be wrapped up with a beautiful, inclusive religious service led by Paster Joanne Van Zant at Friends to Friends Community Church at 303 Prospect Street.  This weekend celebrates all Village residents who are differently-abled.

 

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 there were no resolutions for Ridgewood Water to be adopted this evening.

 

11.       ORDINANCES

 

A.        INTRODUCTION #3916 – AMEND CHAPTER 265 – VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC – PARKING RESTRICTIONS – MORNINGSIDE ROAD

 

Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of Ordinance #3916 by title only.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3916 by title:

 

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”

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon moved that Ordinance #3916 be adopted on first reading and that September 7, 2022 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

B.        INTRODUCTION #3917 – AMEND CHAPTER 265 – VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC – PARKING REGULATIONS IN MUNICIPAL COMPLEX PARKING LOT

 

Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of Ordinance #3917 by title only.  Councilwoman Perron seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3917 by title:

 

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”

 

Councilman Vagianos moved that Ordinance #3917 be adopted on first reading and that September 7, 2022 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon.  Councilwoman Perron seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

C.        INTRODUCTION #3918 – AMEND CHAPTER 265 – VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC – PARKING AT 111 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE – RIDGEWOOD WATER HEADQUARTERS

 

Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of Ordinance #3918 by title only.  Deputy Mayor Sedon seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3918 by title:

 

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 IV: ONE WAY STREETS” AND SECTION 265-69, “TIME LIMIT PARKING”

 

Councilwoman Reynolds moved that Ordinance #3918 be adopted on first reading and that September 7, 2022 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon.  Deputy Mayor Sedon seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

D.        INTRODUCTION #3919 – AMEND CHAPTER 265 – VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC – ESTABLISH STOP SIGNS – EASTSIDE AVENUE AT ALANON ROAD

 

Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of Ordinance #3919 by title only.  Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3919 by title:

 

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

 

Councilwoman Perron moved that Ordinance #3919 be adopted on first reading and that September 14, 2022 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon.  Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

 

E.        INTRODUCTION #3920 – AMEND CHAPTER 265 – VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC – ESTABLISH STOP SIGNS – HIGHLAND AVENUE AT GREENWAY ROAD AND GREENWAY ROAD AT KNOLLWOOD ROAD

 

Mayor Knudsen moved the first reading of Ordinance #3920 by title only.  Councilwoman Perron seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3920 by title:

 

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

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon moved that Ordinance #3920 be adopted on first reading and that September 14, 2022 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon.  Councilwoman Perron seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

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

 

Councilman Vagianos recused himself from this public hearing and vote.  Mayor Knudsen moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3914 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened.  Deputy Mayor Sedon seconded the motion.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Sedon, 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 indicated that the Planning Board has not yet reviewed this Land Use Ordinance, as required by law, so the Public Hearing on Ordinance #3914 will be continued to the Public Meeting of September 14, 2022.  The Public Hearing on Ordinance #3914 has been advertised for this evening, so Mayor Knudsen indicated that anyone wishing to comment on this ordinance may do so this evening or wait until September 14, 2022 to make comments, or may comment at both Public Hearings.  Mayor Knudsen opened the Public Hearing on Ordinance #3914.  There were no comments from the public and the Public Hearing was closed.  Mayor Knudsen moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance #3914 be continued to September 14, 2022.  Deputy Mayor Sedon seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

RECUSE:    Councilman Vagianos

 

G.        PUBLIC HEARING - #3915 – RENAME BOND ORDINANCE FROM CIRCLE AVENUE DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENTS TO DRAINAGE SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS – VARIOUS LOCATIONS

 

Mayor Knudsen moved the second reading by title of Ordinance #3915 and that the public hearing thereon be opened.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

 

 

 

 

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3915 by title:

 

BOND ORDINANCE AMENDING THE TITLE AND SECTION 3(a) OF BOND ORDINANCE NUMBERED 3813 OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY, FINALLY ADOPTED SEPTEMBER 9, 2020, IN ORDER TO AMEND THE DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT

 

Mayor Knudsen opened the public hearing on Ordinance #3915.  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, Sedon, Vagianos, and Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

Councilwoman Perron moved that Ordinance #3915 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law.  Councilwoman Reynolds seconded the motion.

 

Before voting, Mayor Knudsen thanked all of the residents in attendance at the meeting this evening regarding the flooding issues they are dealing with and said she was grateful for the opportunity to reallocate these monies to try to solve these issues.  She thanked everyone for their patience.

 

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

 

 

 

12.       RESOLUTIONS

 

Ms. Mailander stated that the following resolutions, numbered 22-275 through 22-293, would be adopted by a consent agenda, with one vote by the Village Council, and would be read by title only.  Prior to the vote, Mayor Knudsen remarked that the Power Load (to ease use of stretcher) in Ambulance 11 was bought a few years ago (2018) and they had considered using it in the new ambulance which is being purchased.  However, Fire Chief John Judge sent her an explanation, to her satisfaction, why a new Power Load should be purchased for the new ambulance.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

13.       COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

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

 

Boyd A. Loving, 342 South Irving Street, indicated that the Village Manager’s comments about water conservation prompted him to speak this evening.  He said that this is the third time he has told the Village Council that there is an exemption in the Water Conservation Ordinance which allows homeowners with Smart Controllers to water up to 10 hours a day, seven days a week. In his opinion, this does not promote water conservation. 

 

Mr. Loving said that the intent of the Smart Controllers was to water only when water was necessary.  However, as a result of the heat wave and the lack of rain, the Smart Controller systems are activated more often, and those without Smart Controllers are restricted to watering only two days per week during certain times.  Mr. Loving insisted that the Village Manager has the authority to direct Ridgewood Water to stop allowing exemptions for Smart Controllers and to notify those with Smart Controllers that they are limited to the same watering restrictions as the rest of the residents in Ridgewood.  Mr. Loving indicated that he felt many of the Village Councilmembers were not even aware that that exemption existed in the ordinance.  He stated that even Mr. Calbi, Director of Ridgewood Water, could not offer any evidence that Smart Controllers saved water.

 

Referring to Ms. Walsh’s prior comments this evening about homeowners employing private contractors to take down trees if they interfered with sidewalk construction, Mr. Loving stated that the Parks and Recreation Department hired a private contractor due to the amount of tree work that was necessary in the Village.  He said that if someone is seeing a private contractor taking down a municipal tree, that contractor may be working on behalf of the Village and not necessarily hired privately by a homeowner.

 

Steve Garbatow, Beauty Club Salon and Boutique, 46 East Ridgewood Avenue, said that last week’s Sidewalk Sale Days were held during 100-degree weather.  If the weather had been nicer, he is sure that more people would have attended.  He stated that restaurants are doing less business than they had when the dining corrals were permitted and that his business is affected by how well the restaurants are doing.  He wondered how retail store business was faring this year as opposed to last year, when dining corrals existed.  It is his feeling that they are not doing as well.

 

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

 

Regarding the Smart Controller issue, Mr. Rogers stated that they are waiting for more information from Mr. Calbi regarding which residences have Smart Controller systems. Mayor Knudsen said that the exemption is part of the permit.

 

14.       RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION

 

Ms. Mailander read Resolution #22-294 to go into Closed Session as follows:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

15.       ADJOURNMENT

 

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Deputy Mayor Sedon, seconded by Councilwoman Reynolds, and carried by majority voice vote, the Village Council’s Regular Public Meeting was adjourned at 9:02 P.M.

 

 

 

 

                                                ____________________________________

                                                                                                Susan Knudsen

                                                                                                       Mayor

 

 

 

 

 

________________________________________

                     Heather A. Mailander

             Village Manager/Village Clerk