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 APRIL 27, 2022 AT 7:30 P.M.

 

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

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon 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, Sedon, and Vagianos.  Mayor Knudsen and Councilwoman Reynolds were not in attendance.  Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; Eileen Young, Deputy Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney.

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.  There was a moment of silence for all first responders and people around the world suffering from the effects of war and violence.

 

2.         COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

Ellie Gruber, 229 South Irving Street, indicated that she was speaking this evening representing the Climate Committee of the League of Women Voters of Ridgewood.  They are requesting the Village Council to enact an effective noise control ordinance.  There already exists a noise control ordinance which prohibits loud train whistles and machinery; however, the ordinance does not address decibel levels.  Ms. Gruber mentioned the recently enacted noise ordinance which addresses the times during which loud noise may be emitted, but she indicated that there was no sense in passing an ordinance which does not adequately define “noise” or “loud.”  With permission from the Village Council, she distributed a handout/fact sheet describing the harmful effects of increased decibel levels on the health and welfare of residents. 

 

Ms. Gruber stated that most increased decibel levels are emitted from gas-powered lawn equipment, which she believes clearly violates the New Jersey Noise Control Statute (N.J.S.A. 729) as well as the model municipal noise ordinance listed on the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) noise control website.  Ms. Gruber indicated that the NJDEP has stated that the Noise Control Act allows municipalities to adopt noise control ordinances that are more stringent than the State code.  She indicated that she would email the link to the Village Councilmembers.

 

Ms. Gruber stated that Ridgewood is not alone in neglecting this issue.  However, things have changed and residents are being bombarded with increased decibel levels, especially during the warmer months when windows are open and people are sitting in their yards trying to enjoy the sunshine.   Over a dozen towns in Bergen County have noise ordinances, and the one enacted in Montvale late last year contains language that is very specific about decibel levels.

 

Rurik Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, stated that at the last Village Council meeting, Mayor Knudsen gave him an estimate of the costs expended thus far for development of the new Master Plan.  This was in response to Mr. Halaby’s request for an update on the status of the Master Plan.  He stated that this information should be made available to all Ridgewood residents, not just him, and should be posted on the Village website.

 

Mr. Halaby also indicated that he gave Robert Rooney, Village CFO, a list of questions at the last Village Council Meeting regarding the Parking Utility and the Parking Enforcement Unit. However, he stated that he has yet to receive answers to these questions from Mr. Rooney and inquired as to when he could expect responses to his questions.  Mr. Halaby said that he would once again submit his questions to the Village Clerk.  He had been told that Mr. Rooney does not have the time to hold a public meeting as requested by Mr. Halaby and that written questions should be submitted.

 

Regarding the repaving of Franklin Avenue, Mr. Halaby said that he has repeatedly asked the Village Council when this street would be repaved and has yet to receive an answer.  In addition, he spoke about the revocation of the ethics violations against former Mayor Paul Aronsohn and former Village Manager Roberta Sonenfeld.  He indicated that he was also handing the Village Clerk a letter dated April 11, 2022 from the Chair of the Local Finance Board to Judge Anthony Tiscornia, the last sentence reading, “It is further determined and hereby ordered that the original notice of violation issued by the Board on November 13, 2017 is revoked and that Mayor Paul Aronsohn and Village Manager Roberta Sonenfeld did not violate N.J.S.A. 40A:922, 5(C).” 

 

Mr. Halaby stated that he was well acquainted with both Mr. Aronsohn and Ms. Sonenfeld and that they defined “decency, goodness and integrity.”  He stated that it was unfortunate what they had to endure these past five years.  Mr. Halaby asked why, if Councilwoman Reynolds is so concerned about ethics in government, she did nothing when the then Village Manager was described by the Appellate Court ruling in “One Village One Vote” as having acted unlawfully.

 

Siobhan Crann Winograd, 274 Ivy Place, said that Councilman Vagianos and Councilwoman Perron should be complimented for participating in the “organic” meeting and collaboration between the Parks and Recreation Conservation Board and Open Space Committee, discussing their personal visions for open space and parks in Ridgewood.  The open space plan will eventually be incorporated into the new Master Plan.  Other Councilmembers attended the meeting as well, which was held at Village Hall this week. 

 

Ms. Crann Winograd stated that many questions were asked at the meeting, particularly about the Schedler property and other open space areas in Ridgewood.  She stated that she could answer a few questions based on her research thus far, but it was disappointing that she couldn’t simply tell them to look on the Village website, since the website is still not updated with the latest information.  She mentioned that the Schedler property was the last open space property purchased by the Village.  Ms. Crann Winograd also mentioned that the Ad Hoc Committee Plan is not on the “Projects” tab.  She indicated that the two plans submitted in secret are on the website but not highlighted as rejected, and the last two submissions which occurred are not on there, either.  She said that it was important for people to draw upon facts, and no one can do that unless the Village website is updated.  She asked for a “statement of clarity” once again from the Village Council regarding the Schedler property.  She stated that no one knows what is going on, not even the Parks Department or Parks and Rec Committee. 

 

There were no further comments from the public. 

 

3.         MANAGER’S REPORT

 

Ms. Mailander reported that the deadline for Ridgewood residents to purchase badges for Graydon Pool at the Early Bird discounted rates is Saturday, April 30, 2022.  Pre-Season in-person badge sales will take place on Saturdays (May 14 and 21, 2022 from 10:00 A.M. to noon) at the Graydon Pool badge office.  Documentation of residency will be required.  Opening day at Graydon Pool is set for June 4, 2022, 10 A.M. to 7:30 P.M.

 

A Ridgewood mobile confidential document shredding event will take place at the Graydon Pool parking lot on April 30, 2022 from 9:00 A.M. to 12:30 P.M., or until the truck is full.  The event will be held rain or shine.  The event is sponsored by the Ridgewood Recycling Department.  There is a limit of four boxes or paper bags of documents; no plastic bags are allowed.  The items should be placed into residents’ trunks.  Ms. Mailander urged everyone to attend this event as early in the day as possible, since the truck usually fills up quickly, well before the closing time of 12:30 P.M.

 

Ms. Mailander stated that there has been a multitude of vehicles stolen in the Village.  So far, in April, there have been four vehicles stolen, two in the last three days.  Since the beginning of 2022, there have been 12 cars stolen.  Statewide, there were 1,231 vehicles stolen during the month of March 2022, and for the entire year of 2022, statewide there have been 4,139 vehicles stolen.  All of the stolen vehicles in Ridgewood had key fobs inside them.  Ms. Mailander stated that, statewide, most of the stolen vehicles also had key fobs left inside them.  She mentioned that included in these numbers are vehicles stolen while they were idling and carjacking, the latter of which is increasing drastically.  Ms. Mailander reported that there have been 74 carjackings so far this year statewide.  She highly recommends that all Ridgewood residents remove their fobs from their cars, lock their cars, and bring their fobs into the house.

 

The 11th Ridgewood Guild International Film Festival is being held at Bowtie Cinemas, Warner Theater, April 27 and 28, 2022.  This annual event provides film entertainment that covers a wide variety of genres and gives independent film artists a platform for sharing their work with audiences that might not otherwise have the opportunity to see them. 

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that the Ridgewood Village Council is looking for residents who are interested in volunteering to serve on the following boards and committees:  Central Business District Advisory Committee (two openings for Ridgewood business owners in the Central Business District); the Ridgewood Community Center Advisory Board (two openings, one for Ridgewood resident with a child in the Ridgewood school system, and one for an adult Ridgewood resident); the Ridgewood Arts Council; and Green Ridgewood.  Letters of interest should be sent, along with a resume or biography, and the Citizen Volunteer Leadership form found on the website tile entitled “Employment and Volunteer Opportunities,” to Eileen Young, Deputy Village Clerk, at Ridgewood Village Hall or eyoung@ridgewoodnj.net with a subject line, “Volunteer for Board or Committee.”  The deadline for submissions is May 16, 2022.

 

Ridgewood Parks and Recreation Summer Day Camp for grades 1 through 6 is being offered weekdays, June 28 to August 5, 2022.  Registration is through CommunityPass.  August mini-camps are also open for registration at this time.

 

Effective May 3, 2022, a new Ridgewood Tree Ordinance will become effective, and will require a permit to remove trees on all private property and replacement of those trees or payment towards replacement trees elsewhere in the Village. 

 

On Wednesday, May 4, 2022, a new State law will become effective banning plastic and paper bags at grocery stores.  Customers will need to bring their own reusable bags to the grocery store to carry purchased items.  “Clamshell” styrofoam containers used by eateries will also be banned.

 

In addition, on May 4, 2022, there will be a Dog Rabies Clinic from 6:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. at the Graydon Pool parking lot.  New Jersey State law requires all dogs aged seven months and older to be registered with the Village, and all dogs must have had a rabies vaccine with immunity not expiring before May 1, 2023 in order to be registered.  To receive a discount for a spayed or neutered pet, proof must be provided.

 

The Chamber of Commerce Spring Sidewalk Sale Days will be held on May 12 to 14, 2022.  In addition, on May 12, 2022 from 9:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M., the “Touch a Truck” event will be held in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square.  It provides young children an opportunity to get close to and touch several large Village vehicles and smaller equipment, including a Fire Department truck, police car, garbage truck, Water Department trucks, ambulances, and emergency services vehicles.  There will be children’s activities such as Story Time and giveaways from several departments.

 

All restrictions have been lifted from the Senior Bus.  The bus has a 12-passenger capacity and will take reservations for that number of riders for Tuesdays and Thursdays.  The second and fourth Wednesdays of each month are reserved for rides to the ShopRite in Wyckoff, and the seating capacity is less than 12, because there needs to be room for grocery bags.

 

The Ridgewood Health Department will be hosting a Moderna Covid-19 Vaccine Booster Clinic on May 11, 2022 from 2:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. at Village Hall, first floor.  Pre-registration is required.  The clinic is open to Ridgewood residents, school employees, and Village employees.  Interested residents or employees should pre-register on www.ridgewoodnj.net/covid-registration. The registration link will be open from May 8, 2022 at 8:30 A.M. to May 9, 2022 at 4:30 P.M.  An e-notice went out on Monday.  Registration doesn’t begin until May 8, 2022.

 

Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that, with the warmer weather, standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes.  All homeowners should eliminate standing water on their properties, such as removing water from swimming pool covers, filling small depressions in the yard, and making sure window and door screens are properly fitted and repaired.  For additional information, residents may contact Bergen County Mosquito Control or Bergen County Department of Health Services.

 

Ridgewood Parks and Recreation is hosting a day trip to the 2022 Philadelphia Flower Show on June 13, 2022.  Further details and reservations can be made on CommunityPass or in person at The Stable or by phone at 201-670-5560.

 

Free radon test kits are available from the Bergen County Department of Health Services by calling 201-634-2804.

 

Ms. Mailander urged all residents to sign up for e-notices since there are a lot of activities planned in the Village during the spring, summer and fall.  Upcoming Village Council meetings are broadcast live from the Village Hall Courtroom, on the Village website, on FIOS Channel 34, and available afterwards on YouTube.  Upcoming Village Council Work Sessions will be held on May 4, May 25 and June 1, 2022 at 7:30 P.M.  The next Public Meeting is scheduled for May 11, 2022 at 8:00 P.M.

 

4.         COUNCIL REPORTS

 

Councilwoman Perron said that the meeting held on April 21, 2022 between the Open Space Committee and the Parks and Recreation Conservation Board had a really lively discussion where various segments of the community were represented.  The focus was how to preserve open space, or even to create open space, going forward.  The meeting was moderated by Barbara Davis of The Land Conservancy of New Jersey.  Ms. Davis is in the process of drafting the Open Space Plan, which will eventually be incorporated into the Master Plan. 

 

The Central Business District Advisory Committee (CBDAC) met and discussed various things, such as the proposal to reduce the speed limit in the CBD to 20 m.p.h.  The committee consensus was that vehicles really cannot go much faster than 20 m.p.h. in the CBD.  However, they have asked the Chief of Police to let them know what the “hot spots” were in town in terms of lack of safety.  Grab and Go parking spaces were also discussed, and the committee consensus was that the Grab and Go spots in the CBD should continue because they benefit all businesses in the CBD.  It is conducive to more customers visiting the CBD and patronizing businesses. 

 

Councilwoman Perron indicated that there is a Ridgewood Guild Liaison on CBDAC who remarked about the International Film Festival being held this week.  There is a lineup at the Bowtie Cinema of “mouth-watering films” for residents to enjoy:  animation, student films, documentaries, and musical videos. 

 

Councilwoman Perron mentioned Ridgecrest, the low-income senior and disability housing in Ridgewood, and how the Ridgewood High School Community Outreach Club is running “Toiletry Tuesday” on May 3, 2022 (detergent, soap, toilet paper, paper towels, etc. which are desperately needed).  This event is basically where residents get their supplies for the entire year.  Donations will be accepted between 3:00 P.M. and 5:00 P.M. on Tuesday, May 3, 2022 at 711 Ridge Road.  A direct donation can be made on their website, which is www.ridgecrestseniorhousing.org/makeadonation. 

 

Councilman Vagianos said that he had nothing additional to report, but he wanted to emphasize a couple of things already spoken about this evening.  Regarding the joint meeting between the Open Space Committee and the Parks and Recreation Conservation Board, which is designed to figure out if there are other properties that the Village can acquire to create more open space, Councilman Vagianos indicated that people from all walks of life participated in the meeting (sports groups, seniors, younger people) and everyone recognized everyone else’s need for more passive recreational space for everyone.  Not one group felt that their specific needs were more important than that of another group.  There was a lot of unity, and Councilman Vagianos stated that it was one of the most productive meetings he has ever attended.

 

Regarding Toiletry Tuesday, Councilman Vagianos said that, besides coming up with a better name, everyone watching the meeting this evening needs to know that the residents of Ridgecrest are a community of lower-income seniors and disabled citizens residing in Ridgewood.  The Ridgecrest residents need many things, and he urged everyone to generously donate items to Ridgecrest.

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon announced that he has a Ridgewood Arts Council meeting on April 28, 2022.

 

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

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Sedon, and Vagianos

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

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

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Sedon, and Vagianos

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

5.         PRESENTATION

 

A.        RIDGEWOOD RECYCLING FOOD WASTE PROJECT UPDATE

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this is an update regarding the Ridgewood Recycling Food Waste Pilot Project.  Sean Hamlin, Supervisor of Recycling and Sanitation, and Richard Calbi, Director of Ridgewood Water, will present their findings from the pilot program.

 

Mr. Hamlin began by thanking all of the individuals who participated in the Food Waste Pilot Program, without whose participation the program would not have succeeded.  The results were far beyond the expectations of the staff of the Recycling Department.  He also thanked the Village Councilmembers for their positive actions and support toward achieving the Village’s sustainability goals.  In addition, he thanked his staff who worked tirelessly weighing buckets and recording results.

 

Mr. Hamlin summarized the purpose and goals of the Food Waste Pilot Program.  This program was conducted over the course of nine months, with approximately 100 households participating, in order to collect data to determine whether or not a larger, permanent program could be established; to determine how much food was eliminated from the waste stream (landfills and oceans, for example) during the pilot program; and to determine how much money could be saved if the program were conducted on a larger scale.

 

Mr. Hamlin then described the program components.  They began by using 48-gallon totes, which have been repurposed for another use because Trenton Renewables supplied their own totes.  Moving forward, the Village will need to use its own totes.  A storage shed needed to be purchased to reduce potential odors and discourage critters, and the shed needed to be big enough to house all cans and equipment.  Mr. Hamlin described the application for participation in the pilot program and how all participants were vetted before being accepted into the program.  Each household accepted into the program was given a white five-gallon bucket, which was durable, leakproof, easy to wash, and easy to carry.  Each household was also provided with a leakproof and airtight lid for the buckets.  Mr. Hamlin mentioned that some households apparently found the buckets not so easy to wash, and that buckets needed to be opened up outside most of the time because of the odor once the lid was taken off.

 

Mr. Hamlin then described the start-up expenditures and grant assistance received for the pilot program.  The Village qualified for a grant through the Recycling Enhancement Grant Program Fund from Bergen County Utilities in the sum of $3,000.00, which offset the total expenditures of $5,386.72, leaving $2,386.72 which was expended by the Village.

 

Mr. Hamlin described a list of the food scraps which were accepted into the pilot program and which items were not accepted (things which could not be legally composted per New Jersey law).  Acceptable items consisted of all food, beans, bones, bread, coffee grounds and filters, dairy, eggshells and eggs, food-soiled napkins and paper towels, etc.  In a larger-scale program, pizza boxes would also be acceptable, whereas they were not accepted in the pilot program.  Greasy pizza boxes cannot be recycled anymore, so this would be a remedy for disposing of them and keeping them out of the waste stream.

 

The procedure for collecting the food scraps was described by Mr. Hamlin.  Residents transferred food from their countertop container to the supplied bucket, and the bucket would be weighed by them prior to dropping off at the Recycling Center.  An online form was filled out by most participants, indicating the weight of the buckets; however, some participants did not complete the form and some just “fudged” the weights, so the buckets were weighed at the Recycling Center as well.  Weight discrepancies were brought to the attention of the participants who hadn’t weighed the bucket accurately.  Participants also filled out a weekly survey during the pilot program.

 

The buckets were retrieved by staff of the Recycling Center from the trunks of the participants’ vehicles.  The attendant would then weigh the bucket, record the information, and put the food scraps into a plastic-lined cart.  The buckets were not lined.  The waste hauler, Natural Upcycling, would then retrieve the scraps and clean/maintain the carts for the Recycling Department.  The original plan was for the Recycling Department to haul the food waste to Conshohocken, Pennsylvania (1-1/4 hour drive each way), but then it was learned, through Trenton Renewables, that Natural Upcycling could supply that service, since they service a lot of local supermarkets.  Natural Upcycling hauled the food waste to Trenton Renewables.  Mr. Hamlin explained that Trenton Renewables is a completely sustainable company that focuses on renewable energy at a low cost ($65/ton).  Their plant is powered by the renewable energy, and they produce high quality, premium compost and organic fertilizer.

 

Before the commencement of the Food Waste Pilot Program, it had been anticipated that approximately 20% of the food waste from households would be reduced.  However, they were pleasantly surprised that, as a group, it was found that household trash weights were reduced by 53%.  Percentages varied from household to household.

 

Over the course of the pilot program, 16 tons of food waste were removed from the waste stream.  Mr. Hamlin conceded that trucking the waste to Trenton was not optimal; however, he pointed out that this food waste would otherwise need to be trucked anywhere between 80 to 425 miles to a landfill, along with the regular garbage, which is expensive.  Mr. Hamlin stated that no money was saved from disposal fees during the Food Waste Pilot Program, but that was not the main purpose of the pilot program. 

 

Mr. Hamlin stated that the Village disposed of 7,500 tons of household garbage in 2021.  If even 25% (1,875 tons) of food waste could be kept out of the garbage, the Village could save, in tipping fees alone, $29,000.00 a year.  If the program is done on a larger scale, the Village could save money on tipping fees, trucking fees, fuel costs, and labor.  Environmental emissions would be lowered as well.  These savings are based on the current rate of $65 per ton, which is charged by Trenton Renewables, and which is $15.49 less a ton than what the Village pays for garbage disposal.  More savings could be realized immediately if the hauler (Natural Upcycling) were eliminated and the food waste could be recycled locally.

 

Mr. Hamlin feels that it is important to continue this Food Waste Recycling Program because the Village will “fall behind” the requirements imposed already, or to be imposed, by the State of New Jersey and will not be eligible for grants in the future.  Right now, the Village is far ahead of other municipalities in terms of the pilot program already having been completed.  He stated that once new laws are passed in New Jersey, restaurants and other establishments producing a lot of food waste will need to have a place to dispose of the waste.  The overall goal is to eliminate tipping fees altogether from the program and to continue exploring ways that the Recycling Department staff can locally compost the food waste themselves or use the Water Pollution Control Facility to do anaerobic digestion.  If that were done, then the only fees involved would be the labor fee to collect the waste. 

 

Mr. Hamlin stated that this could perhaps be scaled up to a curbside program.  However, Mr. Hamlin remarked that the Village should move cautiously and slowly when expanding the food waste program.  Initially, he would like to increase the program to include 150 households and increase the number of drop-off sites in the Village.  He showed a picture of the compost drop-off bins used by another town.  He would like to temporarily place one near the Sanitation Garage so that residents could have another option to empty their buckets of food waste.  The food waste can then be collected and brought to the Recycling Center.  Households can gradually be added over time.

 

Mr. Hamlin indicated that the educational component of the program is very important.  He described a Food Recovery Hierarchy which listed source reduction, feeding hungry people, feeding animals, industrial uses, composting, and landfill/incineration.  He would like to educate residents about the benefits of composting, in order to create a nutrient-rich soil amendment, and eventually bring composting higher up on the food hierarchy chain.  He would also like to educate people on source reduction, the main goal of the Food Waste Pilot Program, including how to buy groceries and not overspend, buying things on sale and freezing them, cooking less and throwing away less, etc.  He described one of the first participants in the program who arrived at the Recycling Center with a whole watermelon in his bucket.  However, he had to explain to the participant that it was not the actual watermelon they wanted but just the rinds.  People need to be educated on how not to buy food that they are not going to eat.

 

Another program is going to be introduced at the Recycling Center.  They are going to start collecting used and expired vegetable-based oils.  There will be a 200-gallon container used to collect the oils and, if this can be filled once a month, the Village will gain revenue of 40 to 70 cents per gallon.  However, if it is not filled once a month, no charges will be incurred and the contents of the container will be collected for free.  Another advantage of this program is that the oils are removed from the waste stream and it provides a safe means for residents to dispose of used and expired oils.  He mentioned that some people have disposed of oils in the dumpsters by Graydon Pool, which makes a mess once the dumpster is emptied.

 

Councilman Vagianos indicated that he was fascinated by Mr. Hamlin’s presentation and appreciated his comment that if this program is not continued, the Village will fall behind in adhering to new requirements imposed by the State.  He recalled when the Village imposed a ban on plastic bags in the CBD and how seamlessly businesses adapted to this ban.  He said it was good to be “ahead of the curve” with these new environmentally friendly regulations. 

 

Regarding the upscaling of the program, Councilman Vagianos said that it must be made convenient and easy for homeowners, or otherwise they won’t participate.  He recalled many years ago when glass had to be separated by color in order to be recycled.  Separate containers were needed for aluminum cans, tin cans, etc. and the containers became unwieldly for most homeowners since they didn’t have enough storage room.  Co-mingling of recyclables made it easier for homeowners to participate in recycling.  He asked Mr. Hamlin if the ultimate goal was to do curbside pickup of food waste.

 

Mr. Hamlin replied that this was indeed a goal of the Recycling Department.  He said that the expansion of the Food Waste Recycling Program must proceed slowly and cautiously, but definitely keep moving forward.  He said the recycling business cannot afford to go backwards or to stall, and that it must continue to have forward momentum.  He said a wise move would be to increase the number of households from 100 to 150, and proceed from there.  He said that there are already five more households which want to participate in this program, bringing the total to 105.

 

Councilman Vagianos admitted that he was impatient and wanted to see this program expanded, but agreed that certain things need to be done before it can be scaled up, such as a local facility or market where the compost may be disposed.  Mr. Hamlin mentioned that he is optimistic that proposed legislation dealing with recycling in New Jersey will soon be passed.  The law would allow for an exemption to a municipality which ran a Class E facility, in which case the Village would compost its own food waste and “give it back” to the land, as opposed to anaerobic digestion.

 

Councilman Vagianos asked if this food waste recycling could somehow be operated in conjunction with the leaf composting facility.  Mr. Hamlin said that he hopes this could be accomplished, since that is where they have the facility to do it.  Councilman Vagianos asked what this would involve.  Mr. Hamlin replied that the legislation would first have to be passed, then the Village would have to determine if the Lakeview facility is far enough away from residents on Goffle Road so that the food waste composting could be done at that location. 

 

Mr. Hamlin stated that another option would be to construct an aluminum shed on the property specifically for that purpose.  Councilman Vagianos asked if it were feasible that this could be cost effective for the Village, and Mr. Hamlin replied that it would be 100% cost effective and that the Village would save money.  For every ton of waste that is taken out of the waste stream, the Village will save $80.49.  Councilman Vagianos asked if the cost to send trucks and personnel around the Village to collect the food waste buckets, along with the cost of running the facility, outweigh the cost of the Village’s current tipping fees.  Mr. Hamlin replied in the affirmative.  The cost savings would not be immediate but would be realized over time.

 

Councilman Vagianos asked whether the passage of the legislation was the only thing standing in the way of expanding the Food Waste Recycling Program.  Mr. Hamlin stated that there are a lot of “leaps and bounds” they still have to go through and the passage of the legislation was only one hurdle. 

 

Ms. Mailander mentioned that the Village’s Lakeview Composting Facility is governed by the NJDEP, so they would need to approve the establishment of a food waste composting facility at that location.  She stated that she was not sure whether or not it was something to which they would be amenable, but that it could certainly be explored.

 

Despite all the hurdles mentioned by Mr. Hamlin, Councilman Vagianos said that he would still like to see a plan that scales up this program (trucks, structures, personnel), since it could ultimately result in taking up to 40% of food waste out of the waste stream.  Mr. Hamlin remarked that the goal is not only to save the Village some money, but that it was also “something we have a responsibility” to do for the environment.  Councilman Vagianos agreed with Mr. Hamlin completely.  He would like to see Ridgewood take a lead on this matter, apply to the DEP for approval, and even perhaps lobby Trenton in support of the proposed legislation.  Since Ridgewood would be a leader in this regard, perhaps Ridgewood would be eligible for grants to finance the initial investment.  Councilman Vagianos thanked Mr. Hamlin for his excellent presentation.

 

Councilwoman Perron asked if the Food Waste Recycling Program could be conducted at the Water Pollution Control Facility, since there is a building there, and perhaps the bio-gas from the digester could be used as fuel.  Mr. Hamlin agreed but stated that with the amount of food waste they are talking about, it is not feasible to just do composting with it, but he would like part of the composting to go towards enriching the soil and part of it to go towards providing energy to the facility.  Councilwoman Perron asked Mr. Hamlin to let her and the Green Ridgewood Committee know if he needs helps applying for appropriate grants, since she is aware that staff is limited.  Mr. Hamlin said that was true and that they had to hire outside help in order to apply for the grant they received from the Recycling Enhancement Grant Program Fund from Bergen County Utilities.

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon thanked Mr. Hamlin for his presentation.  He mentioned that three or four years ago, Green Ridgewood began looking into food waste recycling.  George Wolfson was a big proponent of this.  Deputy Mayor Sedon said that the progress made by Mr. Hamlin and his staff was amazing, since there were many roadblocks they had to overcome before beginning the Food Waste Recycling Pilot Program.  He said that when the State finally “catches up” with the progress made by Ridgewood in this arena, then the infrastructure will already be in place and Ridgewood will remain ahead of the curve.  Deputy Mayor Sedon indicated that he did not think the DEP would be receptive to a food waste recycling facility at the leaf composting facility since they weren’t especially thrilled with having a leaf composting facility there.

 

Mr. Hamlin replied that a separate idea would be to utilize a company in New York that they had been researching, which works with several places like Jersey City, whereby the Community Compost Center manages small composting facilities in Jersey City and elsewhere. If New Jersey doesn’t “get its act together,” Mr. Hamlin would like to find and rent a location across the border where food waste from Ridgewood could be disposed of, and have the Community Compost Center manage it.

Deputy Mayor Sedon said that the results of the Food Waste Recycling Pilot Program have exceeded his expectations.  He again thanked Mr. Hamlin for his presentation and stated that he would like to see this program expanded.  Mr. Hamlin encouraged the Village Councilmembers to review the packet he gave to everyone, which includes testimonials from participants in the program as well as other useful information.

 

Ms. Mailander thanked Mr. Calbi and Mr. Hamlin for their hard work on this project.  It will take some time before the program can be implemented Village-wide, but she stated that it is a very exciting project.  She mentioned that there are 8,000 households in the Village, so the potential is enormous.  To illustrate the magnitude of 16 tons of food waste, Mr. Hamlin mentioned that 16 tons of food scraps would fill six or seven of their garbage trucks.

 

6.         DISCUSSION

 

A.        RIDGEWOOD WATER

 

1.         GREEN ACRES MAJOR DIVERSION – LINWOOD REPLACEMENT WELL

 

2.         GREEN ACRES MINOR DIVERSION – LINWOOD AVENUE WELL

 

Ms. Mailander explained that these items represent Green Acres major and minor diversions for the Linwood Avenue Well, which is a portion of Maple Park and Graydon Park.  Mr. Calbi indicated that both applications were required because the project contains both a major diversion and a minor diversion.  The major diversion is for the well and the minor diversion is for the underground pump.  Both resolutions must be passed to support the applications.

 

            B.        BUDGET

 

1.         AWARD STATE COOPERATIVE PURCHASE – UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLE (DRONE) – POLICE DEPARTMENT

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the possible purchase of drones for the Ridgewood Police Department.  They would like to purchase a drone which will assist during large gatherings such as Downtown for the Holidays, July Fourth, and the Ridgewood High School graduation.  The drone could assist the Police Department in finding missing persons or locating burglary suspects.  They were able to test a loaned drone from Bergen County a couple of years ago during a large gathering in the CBD, and it was very useful.  The drone may also assist the Ridgewood Fire Department on fire scenes, the Water Department to observe tanks and pumphouses, and other departments.  They would like to award a contract under State contract to Terrestrial Imaging of Brick, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $9,197.76.  These funds would come from the Police Department Capital Budget. 

 

Ms. Mailander pointed out a typo on the second page of the Police Department memorandum which states that the bid expires on April 5, 2022, but the correct date is April 5, 2024.  The purchase would include other equipment besides the drone, including batteries, cables, spare batteries, launch pad, strobe light kit, and an Aston Power charging station.

 

Councilwoman Perron asked if the Village will have to subscribe to something in order to operate the drone.  Ms. Mailander replied that no subscription is necessary.  Councilwoman Perron asked if the drone footage is both streamed and recorded.  Ms. Mailander said that she would find out the answer to this question.  Councilwoman Perron also asked if the drone could “see” at night.  Ms. Mailander said that she would check this as well.  Deputy Mayor Sedon remarked that the drone has thermal imaging, so body heat can be seen at night. 

 

Councilman Vagianos said that he did not know much about drones but that his son-in-law has a couple of drones which stream to a control panel, so the viewer can observe what the drone is seeing.  He assumes that the proposed drone to be purchased by the Police Department will be the same or better.  Councilwoman Perron said that she hopes it would record as well, if it is going to be used, for example, following a burglary suspect.  She asked what the life expectancy is of a drone such as this.  Ms. Mailander replied that it has to be at least five years in order to be in the Capital Budget.  Councilwoman Perron asked if the drone could be traded in after five years.  Ms. Mailander said that she would find out the answer to this question as well.  Councilman Vagianos remarked that in five years, this drone will be a “dinosaur” considering the rapid pace at which technology changes.

 

2.         AWARD CONTRACT – DISPOSAL OF YARD WASTE AND GRASS CLIPPINGS

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that quotes were solicited for vendors for the disposal of ground yard waste and grass clippings from the Lakeview Compost Facility.  One quote was received from RVH Mulch Supply of Wyckoff, New Jersey, not to exceed $22.00 per cubic yard, with the total not to exceed $75,000.00.  These funds would come from the Operating Budget.  They accept both yard waste and grass clippings and, in the past, the Village has had to have two different vendors.  RVH Mulch Supply will be able to accept both. 

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that the Village would be required to truck its waste to the RVH facility in West Milford.  If the Village experiences a good growing season, as it did last year, additional awards may be needed.  The Village is prohibited from disposing of yard waste materials in the leaf compost facility by permit from the NJDEP.  Ms. Mailander reflected back on her earlier comment that she was not so sure that the DEP would approve of a food waste recycling program at the Lakeview Compost Facility.

 

3.         AWARD CONTRACT – TREE REMOVALS IN VARIOUS LOCATIONS

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract for tree removals in various locations.  This is a continuation of removing the ash trees throughout the Village that are infected with the emerald ash borer.  There were two bids received, and the low bid received was from Dujets Tree Experts, Inc., of Woodland Park, New Jersey, with a quote of $179,450.00.  This company has performed work for the Village in the past, and were the successful bidder for removing trees in 2021.  The work will be funded from the 2022 Capital Budget.

 

Councilwoman Perron remarked that this was so sad and painful.  She asked whether Declan Madden, Village Arborist, had looked at each and every tree and decided that they must be razed and cannot be treated and saved.  Ms. Mailander replied that some trees were treated, but that the trees on this list are the ones that Mr. Madden has indicated have to unfortunately be removed.

 

4.         AUTHORIZE CHANGE ORDER – TREE REMOVALS

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item is in regard to the West Glen Avenue sidewalks.  The contract that Dujets had from 2021, which is the same as they bid this year, was also used for West Glen Avenue since it is in “various locations.”  They needed an additional tree removed for the sidewalk work that is taking place on West Glen Avenue and which was not quoted in Change Order No. 1.  The cost for that work ($1,400.00) is contained in this resolution for Change Order No. 2.  The funding is in the Capital Budget.

 

Councilwoman Perron asked if the tree has already been removed, noting the date of November 15, 2021.  Ms. Mailander replied that she believed it has been removed and the contractor did not realize that the Change Order was necessary.

 

5.         ACCEPT GRANT – DMHAS YOUTH LEADERSHIP - RECREATION

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the acceptance of a grant available to the Ridgewood Municipal Alliance through the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS).  Every year, the Ridgewood Municipal Alliance receives grant monies for programs relating to the prevention of alcoholism and drug abuse, co-sponsored by the New Jersey Governor’s Council on Alcoholism and Drug Abuse.  This additional grant opportunity for Youth Leadership will allow high school aged students to learn, from certified consultants, leadership skills and resiliency techniques to support teens in making better choices and to be a positive role model to their peers. 

 

In addition, training will increase the number of teens engaging in healthy, community-based activities, enabling them to veer away from negative behaviors.  The amount of the 2022-2023 Youth Leadership Grant, which runs from July 1, 2022 through March 14, 2023, is part of a three-year grant cycle and is in the amount of $4,620.00.  The Village Council needs to consider this resolution for adoption to authorize the submission of the grant application.

 

6.         RELEASE OF ESCROWED FUNDS – THE BENJAMIN

 

This item pertains to the release of escrowed funds for The Benjamin, a multifamily building at 9-27 Franklin Avenue.   The project has been deemed completed by the Ridgewood Building Department, the Planning Board, and the Engineering Division.  The Finance Department currently holds $11,093.40, which can now be released to Onyx Equities, LLC, the owners of The Benjamin.

 

            D.        POLICY

 

1.         RE-SOLICITATION OF PROPOSALS FOR MUNICIPAL ENERGY AGGREGATION PROGRAM FOR THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item deals with the re-solicitation of proposals for the Municipal Energy Aggregation Program for the Village of Ridgewood.  No bids were received from vendors after soliciting the first time for proposals to offer aggregated electrical energy to Village residents, despite advertising in the local newspaper, the Ridgewood News, and the online bid services which are normally used.  Therefore, this resolution under consideration by the Village Council on May 11, 2022 will acknowledge the receipt of the proposals, the results of the proposal receipt (none), and to re-issue the Request for Proposals.

 

Councilwoman Perron suggested that one of the reasons no bids were received was because the Village followed Sustainable Jersey’s template, which is titled in a way that doesn’t really tell the companies what the Village is seeking.  She feels that the Request for Proposals should be made clearer so that vendors know that the Village is looking for an energy consultant to aid and counsel the Village in order to hire a vendor (supplier of the electricity).  For example, where the words “Request for Proposals for Municipal Energy Aggregation Program for the Village of Ridgewood” are indicated in bold in the proposed resolution, the words “Energy Consultant Regarding…” should be inserted in front of “Municipal Energy Aggregation Program.”

 

Councilwoman Perron indicated that she was speaking with Mr. Rogers about possibly adding a clause to indicate that, if no bids are received on the second round of soliciting proposals, then the Village Council can directly communicate with energy consultant companies.  Ms. Mailander indicated that this was already the case pursuant to State law, so such a clause would not be necessary.  Mr. Rogers corroborated Ms. Mailander’s statement, indicating that if no bids are received during the second round, the Village can perform a search for an energy consultant without a resolution.  However, if a consultant is hired, then a resolution will be needed.

 

            E.        OPERATIONS

 

1.         AUTHORIZE EXECUTION OF TREATMENT WORKS APPROVAL – AMERICAN DREAMS ESTATES – WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that the American Dream Estates is located at 463 Van Emburgh Avenue in Washington Township, right on the border of Ridgewood.  The project proposes 66 dwelling units, and the wastewater created from the dwellings will drain into the Village’s sanitary sewer collection system.  The process requires an authorized representative of the Village to review and then sign the NJDEP’s Treatment Works Approval (TWA) Permit Application for this development.  The Village representative must be authorized to execute the TWA via a Village Council resolution.  Christopher Rutishauser, Village Engineer, has signed such applications in the past on behalf of the Village.  This resolution, which will be considered by the Village Council on May 11, 2022, will authorize Mr. Rutishauser to sign the TWA.

 

2.         AUTHORIZE RENEWAL ONLINE AUCTION SERVICE – SOURCEWELL - GOVDEALS

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this resolution authorizes the renewal of online auction services.  The Village is a participating member of Sourcewell, formerly known as the National Joint Powers Alliance (NJPA).  GovDeals, Inc., is an approved Sourcewell vendor authorized to provide online surplus auctions of government surplus materials.  The Village has previously successfully used GovDeals to sell off surplus property, and the contract has lapsed. This resolution to be considered by the Village Council will authorize the renewal of the contract for the Village to use GovDeals under Sourcewell to dispose of surplus Village property.

 

7.         COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

Bob Upton, 172 West Glen Avenue, stated that he is Chair of the Green Ridgewood Committee.  He commended all of the Village’s leaders for supporting the work being done by the Recycling Department with regard to food waste and styrofoam recycling.  He particularly wanted to commend Mr. Hamlin and Mr. Calbi for all of their work.  He mentioned that Mr. Hamlin has been extremely supportive of Green Ridgewood. 

 

Addressing some previous remarks made by Councilman Vagianos, Mr. Upton recalled that about 65 years ago when he was a youth in England, everyone put their food waste in “pig bins.”  He is not sure whether the food scraps were used to specifically feed pigs, but it was a “no brainer” that every family recycled their food waste.  He said that it was just a matter of educating people to do the same. 

 

Mr. Upton stated that he attends meetings held by Sustainable Jersey/Bergen Hub, where approximately 20 Bergen County towns are represented.  The Hub initiated the EPS (styrofoam) recycling with a Sustainable Jersey grant, and that program is continuing throughout the County.  Collections are being done this weekend and in the future. Ridgewood participated in that collection.  Mr. Hamlin assisted Green Ridgewood in performing their activities related to that collection.  Mr. Upton stated that Ridgewood is now being heralded as a “trail blazer” because of the leadership that Ridgewood is showing.  Other municipalities are very eager to visit the Ridgewood Recycling Center and view the recycling operations for EPS (densifier).  He said that Mr. Hamlin is looking into accepting EPS from other towns for recycling. 

 

Mr. Upton indicated that the Bergen Hub applied for a grant for food waste recycling a couple of years ago, but they were unfortunately not successful in being awarded the grant.  However, as Ridgewood gradually develops its food waste recycling program, surrounding towns will also view the Village as a trail blazer in this area.

 

Regarding the West Glen Avenue sidewalk project, Mr. Upton stated that he has once again asked the Engineering Department if they can tell him when and if the work will commence, since the work will directly impact his residence.  He mentioned that it was extremely frustrating not knowing when this work will commence.  He indicated that he and his wife are in the process of relocating to Morristown (house under contract) and they will be placing their Ridgewood house on the market for sale soon.  When speaking with prospective purchasers and realtors, it is difficult for Mr. Upton and his wife not to be able to tell them what is going on.  He spoke with Jovan, who indicated that they would be working on the sidewalk design but needed to understand some of the County rules.  Mr. Upton was confused why the Engineering Department did not find out what the rules were before commencing the sidewalk project on the other side of West Glen Avenue.  He asked for someone from the Engineering Department to start conversing with him and his neighbors about the tentative plans for this sidewalk project and how it will impact their individual homes.

 

Boyd A. Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that this is the second time he has appeared before the Village Council to discuss the drones.  The last time he spoke, he indicated that there is significant training required to operate a drone.  One must be certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to operate a drone, particularly a $10,000.00 drone.  The Village Manager indicated this evening that the drone would be used by the Police Department, the Fire Department, the Water Department, and perhaps other departments. 

 

Mr. Loving again reminded the Village Manager that anyone operating a drone needs to be FAA certified.  The drone cannot simply be passed from department to department without having someone who is FAA certified in each department.  Mr. Loving indicated that there is a significant amount of liability associated with operating a drone.  For example, the Gannett Corporation in New Jersey, when they utilize a drone for their news operations, has both an operator and a “watcher.”  He stated that drones can be very dangerous. 

 

When Mr. Loving asked the Village Manager the first time what the training process was going to be for operators, the Village Manager indicated that the Police Chief said there may be online courses available for free.  Mr. Loving stated that he would discourage the use of an online course for training, if that is the route contemplated to be taken by the Village.   He indicated that the proposed operators of the drone need to be sent for in-person classroom training and testing for proficiency, both required by the FAA.  Mr. Loving stated that, to date, there has been no discussion by the Village Council about how many people will be trained and how much the training is going to cost.  The only mention has been about the cost of the drone.

 

Mr. Loving also indicated that the FAA rules for drones are going to change effective September 16, 2023.  Any drone that is currently manufactured and sold will be obsolete on that date because “remote ID” will need to be installed on every drone.  If a drone is not capable and not broadcasting remote ID, which enables someone with a computer to know who is operating a drone which is flying overhead, the drone is not allowed to be operated.  To summarize, Mr. Loving stated that if almost $10,000.00 of taxpayer money is going to be spent on a drone today, it will be obsolete 14 to 15 months from now. 

 

Mr. Loving suggested that the Police Department request for funds to purchase the drone not be approved at the next Public Meeting, but instead the Village Council should wait until they receive a complete report detailing the training that will take place for the drone operators, as well as some type of assurance from the drone manufacturer or vendor that it is going to be capable of being equipped with the necessary module so that the drone can fly with remote ID after September 16, 2023.  Otherwise, it was his feeling that it would be a waste of $10,000.00 of taxpayer money.  He expressed the hope that his suggestions and comments will be heard this time, since apparently no one heard him the first time he spoke about this matter.

 

Councilman Vagianos thanked Mr. Loving for his comments and indicated that they will look into the matter.

 

Addressing Mr. Upton’s comments, Ms. Mailander indicated that there is no completed plan yet for the sidewalk construction on West Glen Avenue, and that is the reason why he and his neighbors have not yet been contacted.  She stated that his house may be sold before the plan is completed, and she understood how difficult it was for him not to know what the plans will be at this time.  All affected neighbors will be contacted once the plan is established.

 

Ms. Mailander also thanked Mr. Loving for bringing up the various points regarding the drones. She will look into this matter further and appreciates his imparting his knowledge of drones to the Village Council.

 

8.         ADJOURNMENT

 

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Vagianos, seconded by Councilwoman Perron, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Work Session was adjourned at 9:31 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 APRIL 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 7:32 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 Eileen Young, Deputy Village Clerk; 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.  There was a moment of silence for all men and women serving in the military, all first responders, and all people suffering in troubled times.

 

Mayor Knudsen introduced Dan Sack, Comptroller of a new Ridgewood business, Scale Microgrid Solutions.  Mr. Sack stated that Ryan Goodman is the CEO and founder of this business, established in 2019.  They are a private equity-backed firm located on South Broad Street, right by Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church.  Their website is ScaleMicrogridSolutions.com, a vertically integrated, distributed energy platform.  They build distributed energy facilities comprised of solar panels and batteries to bring power to customers independent of the grid. Their customer base ranges from manufacturing facilities to community solar platforms, such as Bowery Indoor Agriculture in Kearny, New Jersey and the City of Bridgeport, Connecticut.  He encouraged everyone to visit their website for further information.

 

2.         COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

Hans Jurgen Lehmann, 234 Union Street, stated that he could not understand the thinking of the majority of the Village Council, including their dogged resistance to the renewal of the lease with HealthBarn.  There were supposedly complaints from neighbors, but the public was never told what the complaints were.  The lease was finally renewed, thanks to the comments of dozens of supporters.  He brought up the pickleball “fiasco,” where the Village Council cited complaints from neighbors adjacent to the courts, despite numerous comments from supporters at Village Council meetings.  Mr. Lehmann stated that the voices of the majority of residents were ignored, that the Village was an embarrassment on television and print media, and that the pickleball players still do not get treated equally alongside tennis players.

 

Mr. Lehmann stated that, for months, residents have implored the Village Council to provide remote access during meetings, based on issues of accessibility for residents who are unable to physically attend meetings, and this issue was met with callous remarks and finally rejected.  He mentioned that hybrid meetings are being conducted successfully all over the State of New Jersey.  The use of technology has proven to increase participation from the public.  He asked what the Village Council “feared” about public participation.

 

Mr. Lehmann further stated that the majority of the Village Councilmembers have pitted themselves against the restaurants in the Central Business District (CBD) and the dining public, despite a petition signed by over 2,000 residents in support of the continuance of the dining corrals.  He stated that the Village gave up guaranteed fees for the subject parking spaces against their possible use by Village residents and out-of-town visitors, who predominantly visit the CBD to dine and then possibly do some shopping.  He could not see how this made fiscal sense.  He accused the Village Council once again of ignoring the voice of the people and standing against the will of the people, and wondered how they could call themselves representatives of the public in a democracy.

 

Siobhan Crann Winograd, 274 Ivy Place, stated that all municipalities deal with balancing tradition and progress.  She said there is a general fear that technology will go too far, and that the Village Council is “entrenched” in a position of saying “no,” citing some examples of various issues which have come before the Village Council and have been denied, such as the formation of an Antibias/Intimidation Board and a Financial Advisory Board (group of accomplished professionals), funding for the Ridgewood Library (initially), continuance of dining corrals, pickleball, renewal of the HealthBarn lease (initially), and hybrid access.  She stated that these denials affect jobs, revenue, and vibrancy of the CBD.  Ms. Crann Winograd said that she felt the Village Councilmembers need to take time to self-reflect so that they may look upon similar issues more favorably in the future.

 

Rurik Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, spoke about a recent shopping experience in Ridgewood when he wanted to buy some sandwiches at the Chestnut Deli.  He found a parking space and used the mobile parking app to purchase 24 minutes’ worth of parking time.  The deli was busy and it took him a while to get his sandwiches.  He then decided to frequent another store to purchase gifts for his granddaughters; however, his time was running out at his parking spot.  Mr. Halaby stated that he always has difficulty when trying to use the mobile parking app.  By stark contrast, there is no charge for parking in Ho-Ho-Kus, where he and his wife can shop at their leisure.  He said that people are discouraged from walking around Ridgewood because of the parking limitations and fees.  People cannot “park and stay” in Ridgewood.  Mr. Halaby stated that this was the real reason why businesses are suffering in Ridgewood, besides the discontinuation of the dining corrals.

 

Bob Fuhrman, 49 Clinton Avenue, spoke about a Village Councilmember’s comment a few weeks ago about some people coming up to the podium who have hidden agendas.  He believes that he may be one of the people about whom the Councilmember was speaking.  He stated that he does indeed have an agenda, which has been publicly aired over the past year and a half. He wants to see double the number of Village residents vote so that the Village Council represents the majority of registered voters and not a small minority.

 

Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, stated that she wanted to address the issue of businesses in the CBD.  There have been at least three businesses who have been “called to task” by the Historic Preservation Commission and/or the Planning Board regarding the paint colors on their storefronts (Tito’s Burritos, RaceFaster, and Bagelicious).  She said that certain individuals have taken it upon themselves to decide what colors are appropriate for the historic downtown area and what colors are not.  Ms. Loving has perused the code and a document entitled “Design Guidelines for the Village Center Historic District.”  She stated that she could not find a single mention in the documents she reviewed of a list of acceptable colors that could be viewed by the public, or even a vague reference of what colors would be considered acceptable.  She spoke with two members of the Historic Preservation Commission and was told that no such list exists, to their knowledge.

 

Ms. Loving stated that words used to describe store facades include harmonious, attractive, appropriate and desirable.  She stated that these adjectives are completely open to interpretation. She feels that it is counterproductive to delay a business opening over paint colors.  Cities all over Europe, which are much older and more historic than Ridgewood, have brightly painted stores, which are widely photographed for postcards and travel brochures.  Ms. Loving was happy to learn from Councilwoman Reynolds that the store façade of Bagelicious (red) was approved unanimously after discussion at the Planning Board.  The façade for RaceFaster remains orange and the façade for Tito’s Burritos remains blue.  She stated that the whole issue of approving paint colors is tiresome and unnecessary.  She recalled the tremendous losses suffered by Bagelicious when their building burnt down to the ground, and she said that “arbitrary hoops” had to be jumped through prior to their reopening.  She hopes that, in the future, paint colors will not be an issue for new or existing businesses in Ridgewood.

 

Rocco Orlando, 316 Allen Place, stated that he is a member of the Board of Trustees for the Ridgewood Library.  He is speaking this evening to summarize some of the new projects which are being done at the Ridgewood Library.  The Library Board is grateful for the Village Council’s support, which enabled them to maintain safety and top-quality services.  The Village Council’s 2021 Capital Budget enabled the Library to update important elements of the building systems and enhance security coverage.  There are multiple HVAC systems in the Library building.  The unit which services the entire first floor had a broken compressor, and it was able to be repaired with the funds allocated by the Village Council.  A PA (public announcement) system is being installed in the Library, which will enhance public safety (missing children, emergency evacuations, weather warnings, power and flooding issues, closing announcements, etc.).  This project should be completed in May of 2022.

 

Mr. Orlando indicated that three security cameras were added to the Library in the summer of 2021, to better protect the public areas around the patio and lobby.  The entire Library Board appreciates the support of the Village Council and the funds allocated to the Library in the budget.

 

There were no further comments from the public. 

 

3.         MANAGER’S REPORT

 

Ms. Mailander announced that the Route 17 Park and Ride is now controlled by the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT).  Anyone may park there for free between 6:00 P.M. and 8:00 P.M. at the current time, and there is no overnight parking.  Parking charges will be decided by the NJDOT in the future and appropriate signage will be installed.

 

The Daffodil Festival and Earth Day Fair will be held in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square on Sunday, April 10, 2022 from 11:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M.  The theme is “2022 Act Now for a Green Ridgewood.”  All residents were urged to attend this special annual event.  There will be a petting zoo; green educational displays; information regarding water conservation, Project 1,000 Acres, importance of trees, electric vehicles and charging systems; children’s activities; musical entertainment; and a costume Daffy Dog Parade at 12:30 P.M.

 

The Ridgewood 2022 Lifestyle Challenge has begun and there is no charge to Ridgewood residents.  On April 7, 2022 at 6:00 P.M., residents can meet the community partners at Village Hall to learn about the program.  It will include fitness classes as well as pre- and post-cholesterol and blood sugar screenings.  There will be weekly email communications.  There is in-person signup or residents can call 201-291-6090 to sign up.  April 11, 2022 is the signup deadline.

 

“Easter in Ridgewood,” sponsored by the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce, will be held on Saturday, April 16, 2022 from 11:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square.  There will be an Easter Bonnet Parade and contest, music, and arts and crafts, with the Easter Bunny as the guest of honor.

 

A Parks and Recreation Summer Job Fair was held on March 8, 2022.  If any resident was not able to attend and would like to learn more about seasonal employment opportunities with the Village of Ridgewood, they should contact the Recreation Department at 201-670-5560 or go to the Village website.

 

A presentation on the “Ten Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s” will be held on Tuesday, April 19, 2022 from 10:30 A.M. to 12 noon at the Anne Zusy Lounge in Village Hall.  This free, informative and educational presentation is sponsored by the Ridgewood Parks & Recreation Department and the Ridgewood Health Department.  There will be a free lunch and giveaways will be provided.  Registration is required by calling 201-670-5500, extension 301, or on Community Pass.

 

All restrictions have been lifted regarding the senior bus and it will resume its 12-passenger capacity.  Reservations will be accepted up to that number of passengers for rides on Tuesdays and Thursdays.  The second and fourth Wednesdays of each month for trips to the ShopRite in Wyckoff will have less riders so that grocery bags can fit on the bus.

 

A recycling event for Bergen County residents, sponsored by the Bergen County Utilities Authority, will take place on Sunday, April 24, 2022 from 9:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M., rain or shine, at Bergen Community College, 400 Paramus Road, Paramus, New Jersey.  It will include mobile paper shredding, electronics and computer recycling, as well as unwanted medication collection.  This is for Bergen County residents only and ID is required.

 

There will be a mobile shredding event held in Ridgewood on Saturday, April 30, 2022 by the Ridgewood Recycling Department.  Further details will follow.

 

On Wednesday, May 4, 2022, a new law will take effect which bans grocery stores from giving out plastic and paper bags.  All residents should make plans to have reusable grocery bags on hand when they go shopping.

 

The Parks and Recreation Department is offering a day trip to the 2022 Philadelphia Flower Show on June 13, 2022.  Further details can be found and reservations made via Community Pass, in person at The Stable, or by mail to The Stable, 259 North Maple Avenue, Ridgewood, NJ 07450.

 

Ms. Mailander stated that radon is a radioactive gas that comes from the breakdown of naturally occurring uranium in soil and rock.  It is invisible, odorless and tasteless, and can only be detected by specialized tests.  The Bergen County Department of Health Services recommends that all homes be tested for radon.  High levels of radon in a home can be fixed or mitigated.  A radon mitigation system can be installed by individuals in their home if they are experienced with home repairs.  In the alternative, a New Jersey certified radon mitigation company may be hired to install such a system.  For a free radon test kit, residents should contact the Bergen County Department of Health Services at 201-634-2804.

 

All residents should sign up for E-notices on the Village website to be kept informed of Village events and timely notifications.  Upcoming Village Council meetings are broadcast live from the Village Hall Courtroom, on the Village website, on FIOS Channel 34, and available afterwards on YouTube.  Upcoming Village Council Work Sessions will be held on April 27 and May 4, 2022 at 7:30 P.M.  Upcoming Public Meetings are scheduled for April 13 and May 11, 2022 at 8:00 P.M.

 

4.         COUNCIL REPORTS

 

Councilwoman Perron announced that members of Green Ridgewood, in addition to gearing up for the Daffodil Festival and Earth Day on April 10, 2022, have been visiting merchants in the CBD to inform them about the State of New Jersey ban on single-use plastic bags effective May 4, 2022.  In addition, the styrofoam containers for takeout food will also be banned.  Plastic straws will only be provided by restaurants upon request.

 

The Open Space Committee has an upcoming tour of Valleau Cemetery on April 23, 2022 at 1:00 P.M., with a rain date of April 24, 2022 at 1:00 P.M.  Everyone will be meeting in the cemetery parking lot opposite Old Paramus Church.  A member of the Open Space Committee, Yu Sun, will lead the tour, covering the history of the area flora and fauna.

 

The Open Space Committee will be holding its annual meeting, along with the Parks and Recreation Conservation Board, on April 21, 2022 at 7:00 P.M. in the Youth Lounge on the first floor of Village Hall.  The public is welcome to attend.

 

The Open Space Plan is being drafted by the Land Conservancy of New Jersey and public comments are welcome regarding Village needs in the future (open space, parks and recreational facilities).  Residents can send their comments to bhdavis@tlc-nj.org. 

 

The Chamber of Commerce has not yet met in April, but they are sponsoring the Easter festivities next week.  Councilwoman Perron is in charge of the “chalking on the sidewalk” activity on East Ridgewood Avenue.

 

The Central Business District Advisory Committee (CBDAC) has not yet met in April, but Councilwoman Perron indicated that she wanted to read part of a letter received by the Village Council from Angela Ponticelli, who wrote in support of continuing the dining corrals.  “As a community, we understand the delicate balance required to maintain a successful CBD and respond to the needs of multiple different businesses.  Whilst the 18 on-street parking spaces currently used for dining corrals are valuable to the entire CBD, the outdoor dining corrals contain approximately 150 additional seats that can be utilized by as many as 1,000 diners, depending on the weather.  This additional footfall across Ridgewood’s CBD provides a great opportunity for all businesses, far exceeding the benefit of 18 on-street parking spaces, especially when considering the location of these spaces directly outside the restaurants utilizing them and when measured by distance from the various parking lots that provide ample parking throughout the CBD.”

 

Councilman Vagianos stated that the Fields Committee met on April 5, 2022 and the “hot topic” was the opening of Citizens and Veterans (Vets) Fields.  Much work has been done on Vets Field, but cold and inclement weather has slowed down progress of the work.  Vets North Field is up and running; however, Vets South Field and “Stadium Field” are still closed.  By April 15, 2022, they are striving to open the fields at Citizens Park, Vets South and Stadium Field, depending upon the weather.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds indicated that the Project Pride Committee met on March 31, 2022 and welcomed two new members:  Suzanne Willis, taking the spot of the Women Gardeners Club Liaison, and Dawn Tedeschi, a resident member.  Project Pride will have a table at the Earth Day Celebration to be held on April 10, 2022, and they will be giving out native wild flower seed packets to anyone who volunteers as a helper with Project Pride.  Any resident who would like to help out but cannot attend on April 10, 2022 may email Councilwoman Reynolds at lreynolds@ridgewoodnj.net.  They discussed various types of flowers which will be planted in the flower pots on both the east and west sides of the CBD.  A new project this year are baskets which clamp around the light posts in Van Neste Square, adding much color to Memorial Park.  The next Project Pride meeting will be held on April 20, 2022.

 

The Planning Board met on April 5, 2022 and there was a courtesy review of the Ridgewood Water PFAS treatment facility at 451 Goffle Road.  This is a new facility on recently purchased property adjacent to an existing pump room facility site.  The properties are contiguous and are in a mixed use area, with a gas station on one side and a two-family residential dwelling on the other side.  The aim is to make the design and placement of the facility emulate the look of a residential structure.  The treatment room is disguised as the main building and the pump room as the attached garage.  Councilwoman Reynolds remarked that a lot of creative thought and planning went into this project.  The facility will filter out the PFAS from approximately 7% of the water used by Ridgewood Water customers.  It is expected that this project will be completed by the end of 2023.

 

In addition, John Barry of Heyer Gruel gave an update at the Planning Board meeting of the Master Plan document.  The only element which has not yet been completed is the open space and recreation element, being prepared by a different team of professionals.  The draft plan was going to be released on April 6, 2022, but it was decided that it should be released only when the entire document is complete.  The Planning Board postponed the memorialization resolution for Fitometry on South Broad Street since some questions still needed to be clarified.  The Planning Board adopted the minutes from its March 15, 2022 meeting.  The next Planning Board meeting will be held on April 19, 2022.

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon said that he had nothing to report.

 

Mayor Knudsen stated that the new Ridgewood Water facility/treatment plant presented at the Planning Board meeting was architecturally beautiful and she was excited that the $2.8 million federal STAG (State and Tribal Assistance Grant) money is going to be used for that project.  It is a “shovel ready” project and is critically needed to remove PFAS from the drinking water.

 

Mayor Knudsen commented on the Historic Preservation Commission’s concern about colors used for business facades in the CBD.  She stated that the original application by Bagelicious did not indicate that the entire top panel of the façade was going to be bright red.  Since the Historic Preservation Commission was out of commission during the Covid pandemic, the Planning Board began hearing those applications and heard the application by Bagelicious.  In the meantime, the Historic Preservation Commission was “reconstituted” and they wanted to hear the Bagelicious application again because of the additional red color which had not been on the original application.  However, it was brought before the Planning Board again since they had heard the original application.  Mayor Knudsen credited Village officials with doing a tremendous job helping Bagelicious reopen its business, including some problems encountered with Public Service Electric & Gas (PSE&G) and a road opening.

 

On April 1, 2022, the Board of Education had a joint meeting with the Village Council.  Superintendent Thomas Gorman gave an update on the overall academic health of the study body as it relates to the Covid learning loss, a significant topic of conversation currently.  Resources have been made available to assist students in areas of specific learning loss.  Additional shared services opportunities were also discussed at the meeting, as well as the Board of Education budget.  It is anticipated that the Board of Education will present their revised budget on or about April 25, 2022, at which time the school tax rate will be decided.

 

On April 8, 2022, the Ridgewood Library Foundation hosted a Donor Appreciation event.  Library staff was present to showcase some of the technology they have acquired from monies furnished to them by the foundation, including a virtual reality system.  Mayor Knudsen thanked the host of the event, Shoshana Leonard Feiner, for graciously opening up her beautiful home for the event.

 

On April 6, 2022, the Friends of the Ridgewood Library hosted its 32^nd Annual Author Luncheon at Seasons restaurant.  It was a wonderful event and a pleasure to attend in person, after a two-year hiatus due to Covid.  The author of Homegoing and Transcending Kingdom, Yaa Gyasi, was gracious and held a meet and greet and book signing.

 

The Lifestyle Challenge will be kicked off on April 7, 2022 in the Anne Zusy room at Village Hall.  Dawn Cetrulo, Director of the Ridgewood Health Department, has been working hard to make this 2022 Lifestyle Challenge a success.

 

Mayor Knudsen remarked that she will be judging the Easter Bonnet Contest to be held in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square on April 16, 2022.  She is hoping that Councilwoman Perron and Councilwoman Reynolds will help her with the judging.

 

Mayor Knudsen encouraged everyone to visit the Fourth of July website (ridgewoodjulyfourth.org) and review the activities planned for this annual event, including fireworks and a parade.

 

5.         PRESENTATION

 

A.        EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT – JACK SWARTZ

 

Nancy Bigos, Director of Parks and Recreation, introduced Eagle Scout Jack Swartz.  As his Eagle Scout project, Jack has chosen to refurnish Citizens Park.  He is a junior at Ridgewood High School, a Life Scout in Boy Scout Troop #4.

 

Jack Swartz presented his Eagle Scout Project entitled “The Refurbishment of Citizens Park.”  He explained that he lives only a couple of blocks from the park and has greatly enjoyed the park since childhood, including playing sports, sledding, etc.  Therefore, he wants to “give back” to the park which has had such a big effect on him.  He has created a plan, in collaboration with Ms. Bigos and Matthew Andreula, Parks Supervisor, to refurbish and beautify the park.  The first area of concentration will be the corner of South Monroe Street and Godwin Avenue, where Village personnel will remove four unsightly overgrown bushes and replace them with native and drought tolerant shrubs.  Two holly bushes on either end of these bushes will be trimmed.  The path will be cleared and the entire area will be landscaped.  He consulted with Rohsler’s Allendale Nursery and learned what plants would thrive in that location.

 

The second aspect of Jack’s project concentrates on the parking lot.  He plans to remove and dispose of old and decaying telephone poles in front of the parking lot.  With the assistance of the Parks Department, these poles will be replaced with more attractive and effective barriers.  The bike rack in that area will be anchored down with cement to prevent it from moving around or being stolen.  His father, who is an experienced furniture maker, will help him restore the memorial bench, which has missing and broken slats.  He will remove the deteriorated concrete footing by the bench, relocate the bench to a more favorable viewing position in the park, and construct a more concrete footing.

 

Jack hopes to complete this project by the end of June 2022, working with members of his Boy Scout troop, volunteers and family.  He estimates that the total cost for this work will run approximately $1,000.00, which he feels is a reachable goal.  Jack gave a history of the park.  It was bought in the 1960s by a group of people who were concerned that the land would be sold to developers to build more homes.  These people then donated the land to the Village and it was named Citizens Park in honor of the people who had donated the land for future generations to enjoy.

 

Jack plans to do fundraising during April 2022.  He stated that he still needs to figure out how to dispose of the old telephone poles which form a barrier around the parking lot, since they are coated with chemicals, making disposal difficult.  He asked for suggestions on how to solve his problem.  He asked for support from the Village Council.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds mentioned that her son is also an Eagle Scout and she realizes the great scope of Jack’s project.  She asked whether $1,000.00 would be enough to get the project done. Jack replied that that figure was just a rough estimate for materials, but he thought it was pretty close.  Councilwoman Reynolds said that she thought it was a great project and would personally donate $50.00 towards the project.

 

Councilman Vagianos expressed how proud and impressed he was with this fine young man.  He said that it was a great learning experience for Jack, where he would learn about budgeting, scheduling, fundraising, and recruiting volunteers, skills which would endure his entire lifetime.  He offered to help Jack do some fundraising and help him dispose of the telephone poles which are covered in creosote.  He also donated $50.00 towards this project.

 

Councilwoman Perron expressed how wonderful it is to see a young person interested in gardening.  She asked Jack whether or not he had contacted Christopher Rutishauser, Village Engineer, for advice on how to dispose of the old telephone poles.  Jack replied that he had not but would certainly do so.  Councilwoman Perron also said that she would personally donate $50.00 towards his Eagle Scout project.

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that this project is very ambitious and is sorely needed at Citizens Park.  He thanked Jack for initiating the project and ensuring that present and future generations would enjoy the enhancements he will bring to the park.  He wished Jack success in this endeavor.

 

Mayor Knudsen congratulated Jack on his amazing presentation.  She thinks it is a wonderful project and wished him success.  She stated that anyone who wished to donate towards Jack’s project should contact Ms. Bigos, who will then give them Jack’s contact information.  Mayor Knudsen also stated she will make a personal donation of $50.00 towards his project.

 

6.         DISCUSSION

 

A.        RIDGEWOOD WATER

 

1.         REFUND OF OVERPAYMENT OF WATER ACCOUNT – 234 EAST RIDGEWOOD AVENUE

 

2.         REFUND OF OVERPAYMENT OF WATER ACCOUNT – 235 DAYTON STREET

 

Ms. Mailander explained that there are two customers of Ridgewood Water who made duplicate payments on their water account.  Since the credit balances are over $1,000.00 each, Ridgewood Water will issue a refund to each customer after the appropriate resolutions are adopted by the Village Council.

 

3.         PSE&G ENERGY SAVER PROGRAM – DIRECT INSTALL

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the PSE&G Energy Saver Program, also known as the Direct Install Program.  As part of its New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) approved Clean Energy Future – Energy Efficiency Program, PSE&G is offering the Village of Ridgewood an Energy Saver Program based on a recent energy audit that was performed at Village Hall.  Lighting and HVAC equipment were assessed at Village Hall and a proposal was rendered detailing certain energy efficiency measures which could be undertaken by the Village. 

 

There is a proposal to use the Direct Install Program by PSE&G to replace old and inefficient equipment and replace current lighting with LED lighting at Village Hall.  The total project/replacement cost is $146,586.56, with PSE&G contributing 77.3% of that cost or $113,270.16, and the cost to the Village would be $33,316.40.  The Village could finance this amount over five years at 0% interest in the amount of $555.27 per month on its PSE&G bill.

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon asked if the Village just recently replaced the HVAC system at Village Hall.  Ms. Mailander replied that not all of the equipment was replaced.  However, she stated that the new equipment under this program would not replace what is currently on the roof of Village Hall but would rather be additional equipment to complement the existing system.  Dan Timiny of Ridgewood Water interjected by saying that he believes some of the equipment furnished by the Direct Install Program would replace some of the existing older equipment installed in approximately 2003 (age was factored into the analysis).

 

4.         AUTHORIZE CHANGE ORDER – PASSAIC VALLEY WATER COMMISSION PIPELINE PROJECT

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to an authorization for a Change Order for the Passaic Valley Water Commission Pipeline Project.  This contract was originally approved on August 8, 2018 for $149,175.00.  The first Change Order was dated July 17, 2019 in the amount of $10,000.00.  This additional Change Order is in the amount of $13,508.75 in order for the contractor, Suburban Consulting Engineers, to design a Department of Transportation compliant guiderail for the Diamond Brook.  It is recommended that Change Order #2 be awarded to Suburban Consulting Engineers, Inc., the original vendor, located in Flanders, New Jersey.  Change Order #2 will increase the contract total to $172,683.75.  The funding for this project is in the Water Utility Capital Budget.

 

B.        PARKING

 

1.         GRAB AND GO PARKING SPACES

 

Councilman Vagianos recused himself from this discussion.  Ms. Mailander explained that these free Grab and Go parking spaces came into existence during the pandemic and are 15-minute complimentary parking spaces on side streets in the CBD.  In November 2021, these spaces were extended until April 30, 2022.  The cost of $1,500.00 per parking space for six months was paid by sponsors.  These spaces allow visitors to come to the CBD to pick up food from a restaurant, pick up dry cleaning, frequent a shoe repair shop, or frequent any other establishment during a 15-minute timeframe.  The Village Council must decide whether or not to continue this program.

 

Although recused from this discussion, Councilman Vagianos gave factual information about the Grab and Go parking spaces.  There are a total of four parking spaces on Oak Street, three of which are adjacent to Raymond’s restaurant and one of which is in front of Leonard Anthony Cleaners.  There are four diagonal spaces on Chestnut Street, all adjacent to Blue Mercury, and there are four more spaces on Broad Street in front of Dunkin’ Donuts.  There is one space on the west side in front of the Old Playhouse building. 

 

Mayor Knudsen said that one Grab and Go parking space had been designated for Hudson Street, but no one stepped up to be a sponsor for that spot.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds asked if there were any sponsors at the current time for these 13 parking spots.  Ms. Mailander replied that Councilman Vagianos and Councilwoman Perron had worked on obtaining sponsors for these Grab and Go spaces in the past and that, most likely, the same sponsors would be willing to sponsor them again.

 

Mayor Knudsen indicated that she would like more information before approving this resolution.  She wanted to know how many of these parking spaces are designated for 15-minute parking by ordinance.  She feels that some 15-minute parking spaces would be beneficial to visitors to the CBD but felt that maybe the number of spaces could be scaled back a bit so that some of those spaces could generate revenue for the Village.  While sponsors pay $1,500.00 for six months for these spaces, the “true value” of the parking spaces is actually much higher.  Mayor Knudsen felt that an analysis of same should be done by Robert Rooney.  Ms. Mailander indicated that a Special Public Meeting will be arranged for April 27, 2022 to discuss this matter.  In that way, a decision can be made before April 30, 2022, the date when these Grab and Go parking spaces will expire.

 

Councilwoman Perron added that she feels the Grab and Go parking spaces are a “welcome” to people and makes them feel like they can find parking when visiting the CBD so that they can run a quick errand. 

Deputy Mayor Sedon remarked that he is fine with the current Grab and Go parking spaces since they serve a certain purpose.  He felt that it encourages people to come to the CBD to shop and patronize businesses, albeit only for a few minutes.

 

Mayor Knudsen indicated that she felt there was a “tradeoff” to having the Grab and Go spots since visitors will not stay in the CBD to shop or walk around.  Mayor Knudsen added that the 13 Grab and Go spots would serve 52 individuals an hour.  She feels that a lot of revenue will be lost if all 13 spaces were designated as Grab and Go spots.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds remarked that the meters for each spot run from 9:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. five days a week, and for nine hours on Saturday.  Doing the math, she arrived at the conclusion that the Village is losing revenue by having all 13 spaces designated as Grab and Go. In addition, she felt that having four Grab and Go spots on Broad Street was “overkill.”  Mayor Knudsen remarked that she hasn’t received any complaints concerning same.   Mayor Knudsen asked if she could obtain a list of the sponsors for the Grab and Go spots.  Ms. Mailander replied that she would supply Mayor Knudsen with a list of the sponsors.

 

C.        BUDGET

 

1.         AWARD STATE COOPERATIVE PURCHASE – MOTOROLA TRI-BAND RADIOS – POLICE DEPARTMENT

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract through the State Cooperative Purchasing Program for the purchase of four Tri-Band Motorola mobile radios for use in police cars.  Installing the radios will give the police the ability to communicate with all towns and county agencies around Ridgewood, including the ability to communicate on the County encrypted channels.  Motorola will be the selling agent, but the radios must be sold through a State Motorola Vendor, which is Regional Communications of Paramus, New Jersey. The cost of the radios shall not exceed the sum of $31,517.00.  Funding for this purchase is in the Police Department Capital Budget.

 

2.         AWARD STATE COOPERATIVE PURCHASE – UNLEADED GASOLINE AND DIESEL FUEL - FLEET

 

This item pertains to the award of a contract to purchase gasoline and diesel fuel through the New Jersey State Cooperative Purchasing Program.  This contract will be awarded to Racheles/Micheles of Clifton, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $370,000.00.  This gasoline and diesel fuel will be utilized by all Village vehicles.  This gasoline and diesel fuel should last throughout 2022; however, with the fluctuating prices of gasoline and diesel fuel, there may need to be another resolution approving a further amount.

 

3.         AWARD STATE COOPERATIVE PURCHASE – TIRES AND RELATED SUPPLIES

 

This item deals with an award of a contract to purchase tires and related supplies through the New Jersey State Cooperative Purchasing Program and the Somerset Co-Op. These items are necessary to keep the Village’s equipment and vehicles operational.  The contract will be awarded to Hudson Tire Exchange of Hackensack, New Jersey, and Custom Bandag of Linden, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $59,000.00.   Funding is through the Fleet Services Operating Budget.

 

4.         AWARD STATE COOPERATIVE PURCHASE – PARTS, MATERIALS, SUPPLIES - FLEET

 

This item pertains to the award of a contract to purchase various parts/materials/supplies through the New Jersey State Cooperative Purchasing Program.  These items are necessary and used to keep the Village’s equipment and vehicles operational.  The contract will be awarded to multiple vendors approved by the State of New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $580,000.00.  Funding is available in the Fleet Services Operating Budget.

 

Councilwoman Perron asked for a description of the various parts, materials and supplies that are intended to be purchased.  Ms. Mailander replied that she would supply same to Councilwoman Perron before next week.

 

5.         AWARD STATE COOPERATIVE PURCHASE – COMPUTER AND SERVER EQUIPMENT – VILLAGE AND RIDGEWOOD WATER

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this items deals with the purchase of new desktops, laptops and servers through the New Jersey State Cooperative Purchasing Program for both the Village Departments and the new Ridgewood Water facility.  The contract will be awarded to Dell of Round Rock, Texas, in an amount not to exceed $251,980.87.  Funding will come from the  Capital Budget.

 

Councilwoman Perron asked whether the technological equipment would be divided equally between the Village Departments and Ridgewood Water.  Dylan Hansen, Director of the IT Department, replied that by the next meeting, he will supply a comprehensive breakdown of the various equipment being purchased and what equipment each department will get.

 

6.         AWARD STATE COOPERATIVE PURCHASE – PORTABLE RADIOS – POLICE DEPARTMENT

 

This item deals with the purchase of four portable radios for the Police Department through the New Jersey State Cooperative Purchasing Program.  These APX6000 radios better interface with the Village’s radio system and have a newer vocoder technology that allows for better fidelity of transmissions in higher noise environments.  The current radios used by the Police Department are no longer in production and no longer supported by the manufacturer.  This purchase is part of a multi-year replacement program and, after this purchase, most of the Village’s police officers will have the upgraded portable radios.  The contract will be awarded to Motorola Solutions, c/o Regional Communications, Inc. in Paramus, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $13,799.20.  Funding for this purchase is available in the Police Capital Budget.

 

Councilwoman Perron asked how these new radios differed from the older ones.  Ms. Mailander replied that the current radios are car radios.  Councilwoman Perron asked if these radios are worn on the body.  Ms. Mailander said that she would find out the answer to that question and get back to Councilwoman Perron.

 

7.         AWARD YEAR TWO OF CONTRACT – FORD EXPLORER LEASE – HEALTH DEPARTMENT

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to an award of year two of a contract for the lease of a 2021 Ford Explorer, which is used by the Health Department.  The contract is through Sourcewell to Enterprise Fleet Management of Wayne, New Jersey, not to exceed $8,000.00.  Funding is available in the Health Department Operating Budget.  Since the Health Department now has three additional staff members (Vulnerable Population Outreach Coordinator, Covid Generalist, and Retired Health Officer hired through the State), this vehicle will assist with transportation for outreach as well as various events scheduled within the Village.

 

Councilman Vagianos asked if this vehicle has already been purchased.  Ms. Mailander replied that this item represents year two of a five-year lease.  When there is a multi-year contract, the Village Council must pass a resolution for each year of said contract.  Councilman Vagianos asked if the Health Department really needed a vehicle as big as a Ford Explorer or if a smaller vehicle be sufficient for their needs.  Ms. Mailander replied that there have been events scheduled where various items needed to be transported to the event, such as a vaccination clinic for residents of Ridgecrest.  She said she would find out more information and get back to Councilman Vagianos. 

 

Councilman Vagianos asked what other vehicles are available to the Health Department, and Ms. Mailander said that she would find out that information as well.  However, she did mention that many Village vehicles are pooled and shared between departments.  Councilman Vagianos again questioned whether the Health Department needed a huge vehicle like a Ford Explorer, which is also a gas guzzler.  In the not-too-distant future, Councilman Vagianos said that he would like to schedule a discussion about the entire Village fleet to analyze whether such large vehicles are really needed. 

 

Ms. Mailander reminded everyone that regular vehicles can only be purchased from the Operating Budget, whereas SUVs must be purchased through the Capital Budget.  In addition, she stated that police officers have to drive in all kinds of weather, and SUVs are safer than regular vehicles.  Ms. Mailander also mentioned that they will be looking into electric or hybrid vehicles in the future.

 

Councilwoman Perron stated that at the League of Municipalities Conference, regarding EV Fleet Transition, it was mentioned that the Ford Explorer or Ford 150 would be developed in a hybrid format within a year or so.

 

8.         AWARD STATE COOPERATIVE PURCHASE – COMPUTER EQUIPMENT – IT DEPARTMENT

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the purchase of computer equipment for the Village of Ridgewood IT Department through the New Jersey Cooperative Purchasing Program.  The contract is to be awarded to SHI International Corp. of Somerset, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $45,006.30.  Funding for same is available in the IT Capital Budget.

 

D.        POLICY

 

1.         DESIGNATING THE VALLEY HOSPITAL PROPERTY AS AN AREA IN NEED OF REDEVELOPMENT

 

Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney, explained that this item pertains to a resolution recommending that the Valley Hospital property be designated as a non-condemnation area in need of redevelopment.  This recommendation comes from the Village Planning Board, whose members feel that the criteria has been met for such a designation.  Mr. Rogers explained that the Village Council also needs to decide whether or not the redevelopment criteria for the Valley Hospital property has been met. 

 

Mr. Rogers stated that this resolution is consistent with the settlement of two aspects of prior actions:  the lawsuit involving Valley Hospital and the Village of Ridgewood, and the third round of the Fair Share Housing Plan, with regard to providing affordable housing in the Village.  Since this property was going to be sold, the land was ordered by the court to be included in the Village’s affordable housing component.  As a result of the discussions that took place between Valley Hospital, Fair Share Housing Center, the Special Master and the Village, it was considered that this would be an optimum method of trying to provide affordable housing on the Valley campus, if and when this campus ever frees up.

 

Mr. Rogers explained that there are advantages to declaring the Valley Hospital property as an area in need of redevelopment since then there would be an opportunity for the Village to participate in the design and development of this site should it become available, even 20 years into the future.  It would become part of the Village’s zoning component.

 

Councilman Vagianos asked if the plan was to build more affordable housing on this property. Mr. Rogers replied that the court felt that this property needed to be included in the Third Round Housing Element because, at that time, Valley Hospital had announced that it would be moving the hospital over to Paramus.  If this property is declared as an area in need of redevelopment, then the Village would have a voice in setting the parameters of development of that affordable housing component if and when the hospital should cease to provide healthcare services.

 

Councilman Vagianos asked if the Planning Board has discussed what they would like to see constructed on this property.  Mr. Rogers replied that he was not sure, but they did decide that the property met the criteria needed to be declared as a non-condemnation area in need of redevelopment.

 

Mayor Knudsen added that Fair Share Housing was receptive to the idea that this is a property located in a single-family residential area and is adjacent to a school, and that the development of affordable housing units on this property would have design elements consistent with the neighborhood.  Once this resolution is passed, the Village can begin development plans which would have to be approved by the Planning Board and go through several channels, and this could take quite a few months.  However, Mr. Rogers indicated that it wouldn’t make much sense to begin these plans at the current time since the property is not even available yet.

 

Mayor Knudsen added that Valley Hospital management has always maintained the position that they would like to continue offering outpatient services at the property on Van Dien Avenue. 

 

Councilwoman Perron indicated that she was in favor of passing this resolution.  She asked whether this resolution would preclude some portions of the property, if affordable housing were built, from being used as open space.  Mr. Rogers replied that open space is a component of affordable housing development and open space must be preserved.

 

Councilman Vagianos said that he noticed that there were two abstentions from members of the Planning Board, with four voting in favor of the resolution.  Mayor Knudsen explained that there was a quorum available, and that she and Councilwoman Reynolds both abstained from voting because they knew the matter would be brought before the Village Council for a vote.  Councilman Vagianos questioned why there were only six members present at the meeting when there were a total of nine members.  Mayor Knudsen replied that things occur which prevent members from attending meetings, but that that was not usually the case and there is typically very good attendance at Planning Board meetings.

 

                        2.         FLOOD ACQUISITION PLAN

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to the Flood Acquisition Plan.  The Land Conservancy of New Jersey has prepared a Flood Acquisition Plan Report, a confidential report which is not available to the public.  This report was the result of a study made possible through The Land Conservancy of New Jersey, Rutgers Cooperative Extension Water Resources Program and the County of Bergen on a Shared Services contract basis, at no cost to the Village of Ridgewood.  If the Flood Acquisition Plan Report is accepted, the Village will be eligible to apply for grant funding through Bergen County for sustaining repetitive loss and severe repetitive loss on flood-prone properties.  When this is done, those properties will turn into passive open space.  This will be placed on next week’s agenda.

 

                        3.         SUPPORT A-2426 – BAIL REFORM MEASURES

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this was a resolution in support of Bail Reform Measures which are under consideration by the New Jersey Legislature.  This arose from the Northwest Bergen Mayors Association.  The Criminal Justice Reform Law was enacted a few years ago, which included a clause allowing an individual charged with a crime to be released from pretrial custody pending further proceedings.  An unintended consequence of this has been the release pending trial of criminals charged with serious crimes and the commission of additional crimes by them to person or property after their release. 

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this law was initially enacted because it had been determined that wealthier criminals had money to post bail while poorer criminals did not.  This resolution urges the Legislature to adopt the provisions of A-2426, which would amend the Criminal Justice Reform Law to include a rebuttable presumption of pretrial detention to individuals charged with a firearm-related crime and to prevent additional crimes being committed by criminals released under the Criminal Justice Reform Law while awaiting trial.  Ms. Mailander said that this law has created difficulties for police departments throughout the State of New Jersey because criminals are apprehended but then released within a few hours, and it was more than likely that those same criminal would commit another crime.

 

Councilman Vagianos indicated that he wanted to read the actual bail reform measures which are the subject of this resolution.  Mr. Rogers indicated that the amendment which is being proposed deals with a rebuttable presumption that people who are charged with firearm violations are not entitled to relief under the Criminal Justice Reform Law.

 

Councilwoman Perron indicated that, lacking sufficient data on recidivism, she is not in favor of adopting this resolution at the municipal level signaling the Village's support of A-2426.  She explained that when the Criminal Justice Reform Law was enacted, it was done via a “thoughtful matrix” of feedback from judges, lawyers, and those engaged in the legal system.  She does not want to “undercut” this process without hard evidence on the recidivism rate.

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon indicated that he was in favor of the resolution, since he believes that criminals should be locked up.  He stated that bail reform has made a mess of police work, in general, during the past few years.

 

Councilwoman Perron remarked that these are individuals who have been charged with a crime but not convicted of the crime.  She mentioned that the second resolution to be heard by the Village Council would undercut the current guidelines set forth by the Attorney General of the State of New Jersey, the top law enforcement agency for the State of New Jersey.  She stated that these guidelines are very detailed and, without more evidence, she would not be in favor of adopting this resolution.

 

Councilman Vagianos agreed that people with money are able to make bail while people without money cannot and linger in jail pending trial.  He wanted more information detailing how the rebuttable presumption of pretrial detention would be applied.  He feels that perhaps the Criminal Justice Reform Law is 80% right and needs to be tweaked.  In any event, he wants to look at A-2426 before acting upon this resolution.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds indicated that she is in favor of adopting this resolution.

 

4.         SUPPORT REFORMS TO ATTORNEY GENERAL’S VEHICULAR PURSUIT POLICY

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this resolution supports reforms to the New Jersey Attorney General’s Use of Force Policy, Addendum B, Vehicular Pursuit Policy.  This reform would allow police officers to use discretion when pursuing individuals suspected of engaging in crimes relating to the theft of automobiles.  She recalled an instance where Ridgewood police officers actually witnessed thieves attempting to steal an automobile, but when the thieves took off, the police officers were not allowed, under this law, to pursue the thieves.  They were not even allowed to barricade the surrounding streets in order to catch the thieves.

 

This resolution urges the Attorney General of New Jersey to reconsider portions of the Vehicular Pursuit portion of its Use of Force Policy, in order to permit local law enforcement officers the discretion to pursue individuals suspected of having engaged in crimes relating to the theft of automobiles, and to provide guidance to local law enforcement officers regarding reasonable and appropriate methods for the pursuit, investigation and apprehension of those committing certain property offenses, including theft of automobiles.  Ms. Mailander stated that certain high-speed chases are not necessary, but that criminals are well aware that they can get away with committing such crimes under the law.

 

Councilman Vagianos stated that he was taken aback when he first learned of this “no pursuit” law.  He felt at that time that there was probably sufficient data to support this new law.  He stated that he would like to review such data (number of car chases, accidents, injuries, deaths of innocent bystanders) upon which the Attorney General relied before approving this resolution, rather than approve it on a couple of anecdotal stories.

 

Mr. Rogers added that there have been problems with this issue for many years.  He cautioned the Village Council to seriously consider whether or not they should support bills such as this.  Councilwoman Perron said that the Northwest Mayors Association did not have a problem lobbying Trenton on this issue, which may be a better avenue rather than adopting these resolutions.  Councilwoman Perron indicated that she can provide the Attorney General’s guidelines to everyone.

 

5.         CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT EMPTY STOREFRONT DISPLAYS

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item deals with empty storefront displays in the CBD.  Councilman Vagianos recused himself from this discussion.  Mayor Knudsen indicated that she is excited about this Ordinance and that for quite some time she has been talking about requiring empty storefronts to have a display that is visually interesting as opposed to windows which are blocked or frosted.  This ordinance was originally drafted by Marianne Bucci as a starting point.  She pointed out Article B 1 which requires window displays to contain local artwork, local school projects, or cultural/historic interpretive displays, consistent with window display requirements of 190-122 E. (7) Window Displays.  She feels that window displays should just provide visual interest, no matter what comprises the display.  It could be product displays, pop-up shops, etc.  She does feel that the empty storefronts need to be improved so that they do not detract from the commercial streetscapes in Ridgewood’s historic CBD.

 

Councilwoman Perron indicated that she discussed this proposed ordinance with two landlords who are members of the Central Business District Advisory Committee (CBDAC) and they loved the idea.  One landlord remarked that she felt having an art installation in the storefront which was empty in her building attracted new tenants.  Councilwoman Perron said that the wording in the ordinance needs some tweaking but that she loved the concept.  Mayor Knudsen asked Councilwoman Perron to email any requested changes or suggestions to her and that she would forward them on to Marianne Bucci-Carter.

 

Mayor Knudsen spoke about the registration form which needed to be completed and signed by property owners with vacant storefronts.  This form would serve as a monitoring system so that the Village can determine how long the storefronts have remained empty.  These forms are used by other municipalities and there is a fee charged, but a fee is not included in this proposed ordinance.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds stated that she was in favor of the ordinance but wants to change the wording in Article B 1 regarding a “lack of tenancy for over 3 months” as a requirement to install attractive window displays.  She thinks that three months is too long of a time period and that either 30 or 60 days would be more appropriate.  Mayor Knudsen said that exceptions could be made if it is known that a new tenant would be moving into the space within a short time period.

 

Councilwoman Perron suggested that perhaps the empty storefront windows could contain signage announcing the upcoming shows/events at the Kasschau Bandshell.  She wondered if this would qualify as a “cultural display.”  Mayor Knudsen felt that this type of display would be appropriate, with a nice “artsy” photo of the Bandshell, with shows listed below the photo.  Councilwoman Perron indicated that she would also like to speak with Ridgewood commercial property owners to get their feedback on this matter and to forewarn them of this proposed ordinance.  She also brought up the idea of adjacent property owners furnishing displays to empty storefront windows which are not a part of their tenanted space.  This could possibly be coordinated with assistance from the Chamber of Commerce, and landlords could perhaps gain a bit of revenue from this setup. 

 

Mayor Knudsen remarked that the empty storefronts with Kraft paper blocking out the window or cavernous storefronts with debris or storage are a blight on the CBD and hurt other business owners.  She feels that some guidelines need to be established regarding the empty storefronts.  She would like to revise the proposed ordinance with the suggestions that have been made and possibly have the ordinance adopted by the summer of 2022.

 

Ms. Mailander pointed out that the word “attractive” in the ordinance is very subjective and that perhaps another word could be used in its place, such as “visual interest.”  Mayor Knudsen agreed with Ms. Mailander that the words “visual interest” would be better than “attractive.”  However, she pointed out that “visual interest” is also subjective to the eyes of the beholder.  Mayor Knudsen said that she would distribute similar ordinances from other municipalities so that her colleagues could see how this issue is handled elsewhere.

 

6.         ENDORSE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANTS FOR SHARE INC. – AIR PURIFIERS AND COVID PREPAREDNESS – KITCHEN RENOVATIONS

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the endorsement by the Village Council of two Community Development Block Grants for SHARE Inc.  One Community Development Block Grant is for the purchase and installation of air purification systems at the Prospect Street and Cottage Place SHARE houses.  These systems will continuously disinfect living and working environments within these senior resident homes.  The cost for the air purifications systems would be $99,000.00. 

 

The second grant is for Covid-19 Preparedness for the Cottage Place SHARE house (food preparation training and kitchen renovations).  This will enable them to purchase disposable gloves, utensils and food containers, as well as remove cabinets and replace them with open air shelves to keep kitchen tools clean, dry, and free from germs.  They will also purchase plexiglass covers to enable communication with the residents without masks.  In addition, they would like to have their staff trained on the latest CDC requirements regarding proper cleaning, disinfection and handling of food for the elderly.  The cost for this is $7,000.00.  The endorsement of these grants by the Village does not obligate the Village to expend any funds.

 

E.        OPERATIONS

 

1.         NO LEFT TURN RESTRICTIONS – FRANKIN AVENUE, EAST RIDGEWOOD AVENUE AND NORTH MAPLE AVENUE

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that the new multi-family housing project at East Ridgewood Avenue and North Maple Avenue is almost complete.  As part of the Bergen County Planning Board approval, several “No Left Turn” restrictions were required to be installed on Franklin Avenue and North Maple Avenue and have already been installed by the developer.  When Mr. Rutishauser, Village Engineer, visited the area, he also observed a “No Left Turn” sign at the exit drive from Mavis Tires at 260 Franklin Avenue, as well as from westbound Franklin Avenue into the store’s driveway.  This proposed ordinance will memorialize the signs which have been erected at those locations.

 

Mayor Knudsen remarked that some of these “No Left Turn” signs were a topic of discussion at the Planning Board level, and she was surprised that this signage has never been memorialized.

 

 

 

 

2.         AMENDMENT TO SOLID WASTE ORDINANCE

 

Ms. Mailander explained that this item pertains to two amendments to the Solid Waste Ordinance 165, Waste Collection.  In the event unfavorable collection conditions exist along a collection route, the Village may require residents to bring garbage and rubbish containers to the curbside until such time that such unfavorable collection conditions have been fully ameliorated.  Examples of “unfavorable conditions” could be snow, ice, and broken tree limbs.  This will improve safety for the sanitation crew.  The second amendment deals with placement and removal of containers, whereby garbage and rubbish containers shall not be placed at the curb before 5:00 P.M. on the night before the scheduled collection or after 6:00 A.M. on the date of the scheduled collection.  In addition, all containers must be removed from the curbside by 11:59 P.M. on the day of collection.

 

Ms. Mailander indicated that there are some residents who keep their garbage cans at the curb at all times, filling them twice weekly with bags of trash.  There is rear yard pickup currently in the Village, and it is fine if residents want to bring their containers to the curb, but the containers must be removed by 11:59 P.M. on the day of collection rather than be left at the curb consistently.  E-notices will be sent out to alert residents of this ordinance and summonses would not be issued for violations at the beginning; however, if the behavior continued, other measures would be taken.  These same timeframes also apply to recycling containers.

 

Mayor Knudsen said she was happy to see this ordinance because this has been a frequent complaint from residents for many years and is a quality of life issue for people.

 

Councilwoman Perron asked how the requirement limiting bulk pickup to seven items is working out.  Ms. Mailander replied that residents are slowly learning about this requirement.  The Sanitation Department will tag the excessive items (not a summons) and will also explain to residents why the items were not taken.  She indicated that this new limitation has helped the safety of the crews and has spurred more residents to think more about donating useful items rather than having them end up in a landfill.

 

Councilwoman Perron questioned the prohibition of putting out containers after 6:00 A.M. on the date of a scheduled collection.  Ms. Mailander explained that sometimes residents get up later than usual and put their containers out after the crews have already come through their neighborhood.  The sanitation crews try to complete their route as early and as quickly as possible during inclement weather since the trucks sometimes slide on hills.

 

3.         CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT SPEED LIMIT

 

This item deals with the Central Business District Speed Limit.  Mayor Knudsen said that she has been observing the traffic behavior and speed patterns in the CBD for quite some time.  She has observed people running stop signs, making illegal U-turns, and speeding in the downtown area. She wanted to have a discussion about possibly reducing the speed limit in the CBD “proper” to 20 miles per hour (MPH).  Speeding and improper driving practices are dangerous for pedestrians.  She feels that a reduced speed limit would calm down the traffic in this area. 

 

Councilwoman Perron suggested bringing this topic up with the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee (CSAC) for their feedback.  Mayor Knudsen thought that CSAC had already discussed this issue.  Councilwoman Reynolds remarked that CSAC did not talk about reducing the speed limit, although they are very concerned about the driving habits and accidents which have been occurring near or in the CBD, as well as unaware pedestrians, especially while texting and crossing a street at the same time.  She assumes that CSAC would be in favor of a reduced speed limit. 

 

Councilman Vagianos stated that he wholeheartedly supports a reduced speed limit.  He agreed with Councilwoman Perron that feedback from members of CSAC should be received, as well as from the Central Business District Advisory Committee (CBDAC).  He told his children, while teaching them to drive, that East Ridgewood Avenue is the “most dangerous road in America” since there are so many distractions.  However, he has concerns about enforcement of the speed limit and about signage since 20 MPH is a “unique” speed limit.

 

Mayor Knudsen has requested that the Village Manager ask the Village Engineer to inquire with Bergen County about reducing the speed limit on Franklin Avenue.  She stated that different speed limits in adjacent areas can become confusing.  However, if the general area has a consistent speed limit of 20 MPH, then it would be less confusing.

Councilman Vagianos pointed out that Franklin Avenue is a thoroughfare and should not be compared with East Ridgewood Avenue because it was very different dynamic.  On a different note, Councilman Vagianos would like to see an ordinance prohibiting pedestrians from being in a crosswalk, crossing a street, and texting at the same time.  He said that this was the most dangerous combination he has ever seen because pedestrians think they are invincible just because they are in a crosswalk.  He asked Ms. Mailander to put this on her list of topics for future discussion.

 

Councilwoman Perron queried whether or not other towns have instituted such an ordinance dealing with pedestrians being prohibited from texting while in a crosswalk, as well as reduction of the speed limit in other downtown areas.  She thought that Glen Rock, or possibly Fair Lawn, recently reduced their speed limit.  Deputy Mayor Sedon remarked that he has seen signage for 15 MPH in one particular downtown area local to Ridgewood (he could not recall exactly which town).

 

Councilwoman Reynolds asked which streets would be affected, whether it was just East Ridgewood Avenue or the side streets as well (Oak, Walnut, Chestnut).  She stated that she would like to see Franklin Avenue have a reduced speed limit as well, despite it being a thoroughfare. 

 

Mayor Knudsen described a horrifying experience when she had stopped her car to let someone cross in front of her, when all of a sudden an impatient driver passed her on the left side and almost hit the pedestrian.  She stated that the proposed reduced speed limit would be imposed not only on East Ridgewood Avenue but all the side streets as well (the CBD proper).  She suggested discussions with CSAC and CBDAC, while using a map, to outline the areas where the speed limit would be reduced.

 

Councilman Vagianos suggested that the Village Council draw up a proposal to be given to the various committees so that they will have something to comment on.  Mayor Knudson thought that she had drawn up a preliminary map showing which streets would be affected and stated that she would look for it and furnish it to everyone.  Upon questioning from Councilwoman Reynolds, Mayor Knudsen replied that she believes she included Dayton and Union Streets, as well as underneath the trestle and west to Washington Place and West Ridgewood Avenue. 

 

Mr. Rogers remarked that, in the meantime, he would research the statutory scheme regarding the reduced speed limit since he believes that speed limits in New Jersey range from a low of 25 MPH to a maximum of 65 MPH.  One can travel 25 MPH or lower in a school zone, but he believes that there are some restrictions with regard to regulating speed limits in non-school zones.  He will report his findings to the Village Council once he has completed his research.  He recalled that reduced speed limits were looked into many years ago and he believes that there are some restrictions.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds asked Ms. Mailander whether or not it would be possible for Ms. Mailander to contact other Village Managers, or the equivalent, to inquire if they have reduced the speed limit in their towns.  Ms. Mailander replied that she actually has her Shared Services meeting on April 7, 2022 for Northwest Bergen (representing 13 towns) and that she will inquire at that time.  There was further discussion about legal/illegal U-turns.

 

7.         REVIEW OF APRIL 16, 2022 PUBLIC MEETING AGENDA

 

Ms. Mailander reviewed the agenda for the April 16, 2022 Regular Public Meeting.  There will be several Proclamations:  Proclaim April as Tree Planting Month and April 29, 2022 as Arbor Day; Proclaim May 1-7, 2022 as National Drinking Water Week; Proclaim May as Building Safety Month; and Proclaim May as Older Americans Month.

 

There will be Fire Department Awards for actions taken during the Broad Street fire, including  Unit Citation Awards, Lifesaving Awards, and a Group Effort Medical Award.  There will be a Public Hearing on Ordinance #3895, Establishing a CAP Bank, as well as the 2022 Budget Hearing and 2022 Budget Resolutions, one of which will need an amendment.  There are no introductions of ordinances for Ridgewood Water.  There are two Public Hearings for Ridgewood Water regarding the Bond Ordinance for the Water Utility Capital and another to amend Chapter 145, Fees, Water Rates and PFAS Treatment Charges.

 

Resolutions for Ridgewood Water include:  Award Contract for Printing of PFAS Notices; Title 59 Approval and Award of Contract for Cold Water Meters and Accessories; Award Sole Source Contract for Corrosion Inhibitor ESC 532; Authorize Change Order for Passaic Valley Water Commission Pipeline Project and Design of Guidewall at Diamond Brook; and Refund Overpayments of Water Accounts for 691 Upper Boulevard, 234 East Ridgewood Avenue, and 235 Dayton Street.

 

Ordinance Introductions include:  Amend Chapter 265, Vehicles and Traffic, No Left Turn on Franklin Avenue, North Maple Avenue, and Linwood Avenue; and Amend Chapter 165, Rubbish, Refuse and Recycling for Collection Schedule and Placement and Removal of Garbage and Rubbish Containers.

 

Public Hearings for Ordinances include:  General Capital Bond Ordinance; Amend Chapter 145, Fees, Sewer Connection Fees; Amend Chapter 260, Trees and Shrubs; Amend Chapter 145, Fees, Trees and Shrubs; Amend Chapter 190, Land Use and Development, Zoning Map; Amend Chapter 265 Vehicles and Traffic, Permit Parking, Extended Parking in the Central Business District for Ridgewood Residents in Central Business District and Residential Zones; and Amend Chapter 145 Fees, Fees for Ridgewood Central Business District Parking 24/7/365 Permit.

 

Resolutions include:  Title 59 Approval and Award of Contract for Horticultural Supplies; Title 59 Approval and Award of Contract for Road Resurfacing and Repairs; Award Contract Under State Contract for Tri-Band Radios for the Police Department; Award Contract Under State Contract for Portable Radios; Award Contract Under State Contract for Gasoline and Diesel Fuel; Award Contract under State Contract for Tires and Related Supplies; Award Contract Under State Contract for Parts and Supplies for Fleet Services; Award Contract Under State Contract for Computer and Server Equipment for the Village of Ridgewood and Ridgewood Water; Award Contract Under Sourcewell Cooperative Purchasing Program for Lease of Ford Explorer for the Health Department; Award Professional Services Contract for Animal Control Services and Waterfowl Management through June 30, 2022; Award Professional Services Contract for Animal Control Services and Waterfowl Management for 2022-2023; Authorize Agreement with PSE&G for the Installation and Direct Install for Energy Efficient Lighting and HVAC Equipment at Village Hall; Authorize Ridgewood Division of Fleet Services to Negotiate Body Shop Services; Declare Property Surplus – Police Vehicles; Accept Grant – USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service – Emergency Watershed Protection Program Grant; Confirm Endorsement of Community Development Block Grant for SHARE, Inc. – Cottage Place and Prospect Street – Air Purification System; Confirm Endorsement of Community Development Block Grant for SHARE, Inc. – Cottage Place – Covid-19 Preparedness – Kitchen Renovations and Food Preparation; Authorize Release of Surety Bond for Onyx Equities, LLC – The Benjamin; Authorize Encroachment Agreement – 80 Oak Street; Designate The Valley Hospital as an Area in Need of Redevelopment; Appoint Member to Open Space Committee; and Appoint Members to the Parks, Recreation and Conservation Board.

 

Ms. Mailander explained that regarding the Authorization of the Ridgewood Division of Fleet Services to Negotiate Body Shop Services, this was discussed and went out for bid in December 2021 and for some reason it was overlooked; therefore, the resolution will be heard at the meeting scheduled for April 13, 2022.

There was a discussion about the members being appointed to the Open Space Committee and the Parks, Recreation and Conservation Board.  Councilwoman Reynolds mentioned that one member of Project Pride was replaced by another member from the Women Gardeners Club, and there is also a new member who wishes to join.  Ms. Mailander asked Councilwoman Reynolds to supply her with the names of these new members so that the appropriate resolution may be drawn up and approved.

 

The resolutions regarding the Support of A-2426 – Bail Reform Measures, and Support Reforms to Attorney General’s Vehicular Pursuit Policy, will be pulled off the agenda until more information has been ascertained.

 

Ms. Mailander asked if any Councilmember wanted any items off of next week’s agenda, and there were none.

 

8.         COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

Siobhan Crann Winograd, 274 Ivy Place, state that she thought the plan for empty storefronts is a great idea and is long overdue.  She feels that it will beautify the CBD and that future tenants will be found more readily with the windows decorated in some fashion.

 

She questioned why the Grab and Go parking spaces were not moving forward, since it is a time-sensitive issue.  She wondered why the spaces could not be continued while the fact-finding research is done, since it only involves 13 spots.  She stated that is a very sensitive issue for the business community and feels that, since the Village Council is divided, it should move forward and be heard and voted upon at the next meeting so that a timing issue is not encountered.  She doesn’t feel that a Special Public Meeting is necessary to discuss this issue, which would incur more expense.

 

Ms. Crann Winograd stated that she is in the CBD all the time.  She feels that there are some financial factors which the Village Council is not taking into account.  The $250.00 per month paid by sponsors is not equivalent to the revenue which would be gained from turning these spaces into metered parking spaces, since transaction fees are incurred when using the meters. In addition, not all parking spaces are full all the time, especially during the summer.  She felt that it was short-sighted and mean-spirited of the Village Council to “pull the plug” on the Grab and Go parking spaces.  She feels that these spots have provided traffic safety, since many accidents have been caused by people circling around the block to find a parking spot.  If customers cannot quickly run errands or pick up food, then the businesses in the CBD will suffer.  She credited the Village Council with coming up with some very clever ideas to help out businesses during the Covid pandemic.  However, she reminded the Village Council that Covid is not over yet and it would be detrimental to the businesses in the CBD to not continue the Grab and Go spaces.

 

Rurik Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, stated that the Village Council is losing the “big picture” regarding the Grab and Go parking spaces.  He said that the parking system in Ridgewood is unsustainable.  The charge of $1.25 an hour for a parking spot will discourage people from coming to dine or shop in Ridgewood, since all surrounding towns either charge nothing or charge a nominal fee.  He urged the Village Council to hire an urban planner who can take a look at the entire Parking Utility from scratch.  He does understand that revenue needs to be generated to pay for the new parking garage.  He thinks Mr. Rooney should work with a municipal bond lawyer and a “parking person” to see what can be done with the parking situation.

 

Mr. Halaby spoke about a new store called Envy which just opened where the old Jekyll and Hyde store used to be.  They have a sign in front of the store which reads “Parking Available at the Hudson Garage.”  He wondered why every business couldn’t have similar signs to advise patrons where they can find parking.  He mentioned that there are no signs whatsoever directing people to park at the garage.

 

Regarding pedestrian safety, Mr. Halaby mentioned that he had an unfortunate experience with the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee.  He attended a meeting and wanted to present what he thought would be a very simple solution to the problem of pedestrian safety in the Village.  The solution would be to install a four-way stop sign at the corner of Broad Street and East Ridgewood Avenue.  He stated that he got the “run around” and was insulted by the way people were speaking to him.  As it turns out, it is up to Mr. Rutishauser, Village Engineer, to decide whether or not such a stop sign would be installed.  Mr. Halaby does not think that lowering the speed limit from 25 MPH to 20 MPH will work, and he felt that the speed limit on Franklin Avenue should be left alone.  He suggested more foot patrols by police, who can spot speeding cars and whistle to them to slow down.

 

Mr. Halaby asked when Franklin Avenue will be repaved.  He walks along that street all the time and said that he is taking his life into his hands when he attempts to cross the street because of all the potholes.  He said that the worst intersection in the country/world for a pedestrian is the corner of Franklin Avenue and Maple Avenue.  He asked when something would be done about controlling the traffic at that intersection.

 

Bob Fuhrman, 49 Clinton Avenue, said that there were some great points made at the meeting this evening.  He doesn’t feel that changing the speed limit means anything if it is not enforced.  He was also thinking that a foot patrol would be helpful in the CBD during prime hours when there is a lot of foot traffic, not only to enforce vehicular issues but also to enforce pedestrian behavior.  He said that he has never seen a 150-pound pedestrian win against a 3,000 pound SUV.  He said that pedestrians step off curbs without paying attention to what is going on around them.

 

There were no further comments from the public.

 

Mayor Knudsen asked Ms. Mailander if she could contact Bergen County regarding the repaving of Franklin Avenue.  All the required engineering work has been completed by the Village and the Shared Services Agreement was signed quite a while ago.  Ms. Mailander replied that she would follow up with Bergen County.

 

Addressing Mr. Halaby’s suggestion about a sign advising people to park at the parking garage, Councilman Vagianos stated that this was brought up at a meeting with Joan Groom and Ms. Mailander, and they are looking into such signs and will promote same through the Chamber of Commerce.

 

9.         RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION

 

Deputy Clerk Eileen Young read Resolution #22-108, to go into Closed Session as follows:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10.       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 SPECIAL PUBLIC MEETING OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY, ON APRIL 27, 2022 AT 7:30 P.M.

 

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

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon called the meeting to order at 7:57 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act.  At roll call the following were present:  Councilmembers Perron, Sedon, and Vagianos.  Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Manager/Village Clerk; Eileen Young, Deputy Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney.

 

2.         PUBLIC HEARING ON ORDINANCE #3895 – ESTABLISH A CAP BANK

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3895 by title on second reading and that the public hearing thereon be opened, seconded by Councilwoman Perron.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Sedon, and Vagianos

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3895 by title only:

 

CALENDAR YEAR 2022 – ORDINANCE TO EXCEED THE MUNICIPAL BUDGET APPROPRIATION LIMITS AND TO ESTABLISH A CAP BANK (N.J.S.A. 40A:4-45.14)

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon opened the public hearing on Ordinance #3895.  There were no comments from the public, and Deputy Mayor Sedon moved that the public hearing be closed.  Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Sedon, and Vagianos

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

Councilwoman Perron moved that Ordinance #3895 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law.  Councilman Vagianos seconded the motion.

 

Roll Call Vote

AYES:          Councilmembers Perron, Sedon, and Vagianos

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

3.         RESOLUTIONS

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon stated that the following resolutions, numbered 22-150 through 22-153, would be adopted by a consent agenda, with one vote by the Village Council.  Each resolution will be read by title only:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.         ADJOURNMENT

 

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilman Vagianos, seconded by Councilwoman Perron, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Special Public Meeting was adjourned at 8:04 P.M. and the Public Work Session was reconvened.

 

 

                                                                                                                                                           

                                                                                                Susan Knudsen

                                                                                                                     Mayor

 

 

 

                                                                       

Eileen Young

Deputy Village Clerk

A REGULAR PUBLIC WORK SESSION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY, ON MARCH 23, 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 Eileen Young, Deputy Village Clerk; Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney; and Richard Calbi, Director of Ridgewood Water.

 

Mayor Knudsen led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.  There was a moment of silence for all citizens of Ukraine and in war-torn countries, as well as Russian citizens who are against the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

 

2.         COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

Andy McGonnell, 457 Upper Boulevard, was speaking this evening regarding the outdoor dining corrals.  He emphasized that there was no battle between retailers and restaurants in the CBD and that the entire CBD needs the support of the community and the Village Council.  The main goal is to ensure that the businesses in Ridgewood continue to be the best in Bergen County.  He stated that the Village Council should stop and listen to Village residents before taking final action on whether or not to continue the dining corrals.  Mr. McGonnell indicated that the petition to keep the dining corrals has reached over 2,300 signatures, and there have been multiple news articles published in the last two weeks regarding the dining corrals.  This topic was covered by CBS News, and there have been hundreds of social media posts, along with dozens of letters received, in support of the dining corrals. 

 

Mr. McGonnell announced that there is currently a bill in the Legislature to extend outdoor dining statewide in New Jersey, which has unanimous bipartisan support, sponsored by Senators Sarlo and Johnson, representing towns and constituents across Bergen County.  He strongly believes that the dining corrals should be extended through the fall of this year and urged the Village Council to give their approval to let them continue.  He feels that Ridgewood planners and engineers should consult with business owners and the community as a whole before this valuable amenity is lost.  He stated that the CBD cannot stand to lose the outdoor dining corrals at the end of March 2022.  He feels this would result in Ridgewood getting left behind other Bergen County towns, which do offer outdoor dining.

 

Rurik Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, spoke about the 2022 budget.  He stated that Mr. Rooney, Chief Financial Officer, should present the budget in a heavily advertised Town Hall meeting where the residents of Ridgewood can participate in person and via Zoom.  He stated that the presentation of the budget on the Village website is unintelligible and should be presented in a more user-friendly manner.  A Town Hall meeting is the only way to allow for true transparency concerning the budget.

 

Regarding hybrid meetings, Mr. Halaby stated that he remotely attended the Board of Education meeting on March 7, 2022 and was able to offer comments via Zoom.  Having Zoom access at the meeting did not delay their return to normalcy and no one shed any tears.

 

Regarding the Village website, Mr. Halaby stated that it must be the worst in New Jersey, if not in the entire United States, and that the Village Council should not have delayed updating the website.  Mr. Halaby stated that Ridgewood Water upgraded their website on its own, and the Ridgewood Police Department is finally upgrading its website on its own.  He stated that anyone with a basic business sense would have made the decision to hire one web developer to work on all three websites at the same time, which would have resulted in a cost savings.  He said autocratic regimes seek to control information given to the public so that they can control the people, citing examples such as Putin and Trump.  Mr. Halaby said that the mediocrity of the Village website effectively chokes the flow of information to Village residents.  He said that the only reason the dates of meetings are listed on the website is because he himself requested that this be done.  Mr. Halaby said that it took him 15 minutes to discover where the budget was posted on the Village website.

 

Jeanne Johnson, 325 Mastin Place, said she was speaking this evening as a pedestrian and bicycle safety advocate.  She has been actively involved in spearheading initiatives to promote safe walking and cycling in Ridgewood for 15+ years.  She has written multiple grants that provided the Village with over $2 million in funding to improve infrastructure such as sidewalks, crosswalks, blinking beacons, and educational programs.  She has worked with countless experts and designed public forums to help educate the public on the importance of re-establishing principles on which Ridgewood was founded – to be a safe, walkable community. 

 

Ms. Johnson stated that, according to Walk Score, a walkable neighborhood has a center – a main street or public space – with enough people for businesses to flourish, along with frequent public transportation.  It is mixed income, mixed use, with affordable housing located near businesses.  She asked why the Village is catering to vehicles.  Several years ago, the Village Council hired an expert to aid in revamping the Master Plan at a cost of approximately $250,000.00.  Ms. Johnson felt that this was a great investment which would yield a great return. 

 

Ms. Johnson said that it was encouraging to read the answers to some of the visioning process surveys.  “Pedestrian Plaza” was the third choice when people were asked what their favorite event was in the Village. The most pressing transportation need in the Village was bicycle access, and the most pressing transportation problem was congestion.  According to this survey, the biggest issues facing the CBD were pedestrian safety and heavy traffic.  The favorite cultural resources were community events and festivals, and she feels that pedestrian plazas fall into this category.  The commonly requested improvements were additional sidewalks, traffic calming measures, safety measures for cyclists, and closing vehicular traffic in certain areas during certain times of the day and week.  The most common answers to “What business or activity would you like to see downtown?” were art, performances, and a bike park.

 

Ms. Johnson said that, in order to survive, restaurants in the CBD had to “pivot” and she believes that retailers need to pivot as well.  More walkers in the business district will improve the CBD economy.  Visitors to the CBD are not just coming to have dinner – they also want to go out and have an experience.  She asked the Village Council to take into consideration the suggestions made by the Master Plan Committee.

 

There were no further comments from the public. 

 

Councilwoman Perron said that she has also been frustrated with the Village website; however, there is a new tile on the website titled “Ordinances and Resolutions,” which allows residents to access ordinances and resolutions which have been either introduced or passed.  She stated that this is a wonderful addition to the Village website and she encouraged all residents to use it.

 

Councilwoman Perron stated that the Village Clerk’s Office has made a herculean effort to bring the minutes up to date on the website, which fell behind during Covid.  She believes that the minutes are fully up to date; however, she urged residents to notify the Village Clerk’s Office if they find that any minutes are missing.  She thanked the League of Women Voters for bringing to their attention that the minutes were falling behind.  In addition, with regard to the request for a Town Hall meeting on the proposed budget, she asked the Village Manager’s Office if this could be arranged.  Mr. Rogers said that he would defer to Ms. Mailander in this regard upon her return.

 

Mayor Knudsen remarked that a public hearing on the budget is scheduled for April 13, 2022.  There will be a presentation of the budget, which is open to the public.  The public will be given the opportunity to ask questions and participate.  Through February and March of 2022, multiple budget meetings were held, including overviews by all Department Directors of their Capital and Operating Budgets.  Staffing levels were discussed as well.  These meetings were televised and Mayor Knudsen encouraged all members of the public to participate in the upcoming public hearing on the budget.  She remarked that despite the budget meetings being publicized, no members of the public showed up at most of the meetings.

 

Regarding the dining corrals and pedestrian plaza, Mayor Knudsen stated that in March 2020, everyone experienced something which they had never experienced before – a global pandemic.  Immediate steps were taken in an effort to help businesses in the CBD to survive, resulting in the pedestrian plaza and dining corrals.  It was understood by all parties that things would be returned to normal once the Covid crisis had abated.  She mentioned that many people speaking in support of the dining corrals do not pay rent on Ridgewood Avenue.  She has heard from landlords who cannot rent out space in the CBD because of the dining corrals and pedestrian plaza.  In addition, landlords are fearful of losing existing tenants if their businesses fail. 

 

Mayor Knudsen has personally met with many business owners who state that they cannot continue and sustain their businesses with the existence of the dining corrals.  She stated that the 18 parking spaces taken up by the dining corrals are the most valuable shopper/diner/customer parking spaces in the Village’s inventory.  The Village Council has worked tirelessly to free up parking spaces in the CBD, such as asking employees to park elsewhere so that the prime parking spots can be left available for visitors to the CBD.  The non-food businesses were agreeable to these outdoor dining corrals during Covid, with the understanding that it was only a temporary measure.  Mayor Knudsen said that the Village Council has to abide by this agreement and listen to the non-food businesses, which have indicated that they cannot survive if the dining corrals are allowed to continue.  She said that the Village Council is working behind the scenes to develop an equitable solution for all.

 

3.         MANAGER’S REPORT

 

The Daffodil Festival and Earth Day Fair will be held in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square on Sunday, April 10, 2022 from 11:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M.  The theme is “2022 Act Now for a Green Ridgewood.”  All residents were urged to attend this special annual event.  There will be a petting zoo; green educational displays; information regarding water conservation, Project 1,000 Acres, importance of trees, electric vehicles and charging systems; children’s activities; musical entertainment; and a costume Daffy Dog Parade at 12:30 P.M.

 

“Easter in Ridgewood,” sponsored by the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce, will be held on Saturday, April 16, 2022 from 11:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square.  There will be an Easter Bonnet Parade, music, and arts and crafts, with the Easter Bunny as the guest of honor.

 

A Parks and Recreation Summer Job Fair was held on March 8, 2022.  If any resident was not able to attend and would like to learn more about seasonal employment opportunities with the Village of Ridgewood, they should contact the Recreation Department at 201-670-5560 or go to the Village website.

 

A recycling event for Bergen County residents, sponsored by the Bergen County Utilities Authority, will take place on Sunday, April 24, 2022 from 9:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M., rain or shine, at Bergen Community College, 400 Paramus Road, Paramus, New Jersey.  It will include mobile paper shredding, electronics and computer recycling, as well as unwanted medication collection.  This is for Bergen County residents only and ID is required.

 

The Kasschau Memorial Shell fundraiser will take place on Wednesday, April 6, 2022.  A portion of each check for lunch and dinner at the Steel Wheel Tavern will be donated to support events at the Kasschau Memorial Shell.

 

All residents should sign up for E-notices on the Village website to be kept informed of Village events and timely notifications.  Upcoming Village Council meetings are broadcast live from the Village Hall Courtroom, on the Village website, on FIOS Channel 34, and available afterwards on YouTube.  Upcoming Village Council Work Sessions will be held on April 6 and April 27, 2022 at 7:30 P.M.  Upcoming Public Meetings are scheduled for April 13 and May 4, 2022 at 8:00 P.M.

 

4.         COUNCIL REPORTS

 

Councilwoman Perron announced that the Open Space Committee (which looks for properties that can become parkland) and the Parks and Recreation Conservation Board (which determines how Village parkland is used and maintained) are going to have their Joint Annual Meeting on April 21, 2022 in the Youth Lounge at Village Hall.  The public is welcome to attend.  The guest speaker will be Barbara Davis from The Land Conservancy of New Jersey.  That organization has been hired by the Village to draft the Open Space portion of the Master Plan, as well as an environmental resource inventory.  At the meeting, suggestions can be made regarding what residents would like to see, going forward, with regard to open space, parks, and recreational facilities.  Public comments can be emailed to Ms. Davis at bhdavis@tlc-nj.org before April 14, 2022.

Green Ridgewood met and is planning the Daffodil Festival and Earth Day Celebration, which will be held on April 10, 2022.  Many vendors will be there, as well as electric vehicle displays. 

 

The Ridgewood High School New Players Company put on a musical, “9 to 5,” which was outstanding.  Councilwoman Perron urged everyone to catch their next show if they missed the last one.  She is a New Players alumni.

 

The Central Business District Advisory Committee (CBDAC) met on March 10, 2022 and the dining corrals were one area of discussion.  A memo was drafted and a recommendation was made to the Village Council to reconsider their decision to discontinue the dining corrals on March 31, 2022.  Councilwoman Perron indicated that she supports this recommendation. The League of Municipalities of New Jersey indicated in their monthly magazine that the Covid pandemic is not over and that municipalities still need to be flexible in using outdoor spaces and roadways.

 

Councilwoman Perron indicated that a subcommittee of CBDAC met to discuss the pedestrian tunnel underneath the train tracks.  They visited the site and took pictures, then met with the Village Engineer to discuss how the area could be improved.  The CBDAC will be accepting applications at the end of March 2022 since there is an open (volunteer) position for a business member (any merchant with a business in the CBD).  The application form can be accessed on the Village website by clicking on the tile labeled “Employment and Volunteer Opportunities.”

 

Councilman Vagianos spoke about serving on the Stigma-Free Committee.  There will be a Stigma-Free sticker contest for middle school students on March 31, 2022, with a first prize of $300.00.  The Health Department has reported that the Village is at a moderate Covid level and trending in the right direction.  He spoke about the Lifestyle Challenge sponsored by the Health Department, which helps everyone to stay active and improve their health.  It is being held both live and via Zoom, and begins on April 7, 2022.

 

Earth Day will be celebrated throughout the Village on April 10, 2022.  The Library is celebrating May as “Older Americans Month,” and the theme is “Age My Way.”  The program affording inner-city children the chance to swim at Graydon Pool will resume again this year, since it had been interrupted by Covid for the past two years.  Ridgewood was recently named an up and coming Healthy Town by the New Jersey Healthcare Quality Institute, and Councilman Vagianos said the goal is for Ridgewood to become a Healthy Town. 

 

Councilman Vagianos indicated that he attended a great Parks and Recreation meeting last night.  In attendance was Jack Schwartz, an Eagle Scout candidate, whose Eagle Scout project aims to refurbish Citizens Park.  He will be rebuilding benches, cleaning up debris, and replanting shrubs at the park, in coordination with the Parks Department.  He has already organized approximately 12 volunteers to perform the work, and will be raising money to purchase the necessary supplies.  Councilman Vagianos mentioned that it was very inspiring to listen to this wonderful young man, which was refreshing considering what is going on in the world right now.

 

The spring 2022 recreation programs are open (Graydon Pool, tennis, pickleball, etc.) and applications can be accessed online at www.ridgewoodnj.net/communitypass.  The Parks Department is always looking for ways to get people involved in outdoor activities, and they will be expanding their programs and camps in the month of August 2022.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds indicated that the Planning Board met on March 15, 2022.  The façade paint color was reviewed for the Bagelicious storefront at 41 North Broad Street.  It was decided that the red color could remain as is. 

 

An application was received and presented to the board for minor site plan approval, with variances, to construct staircases on an existing building to access the rooftop as an open air fitness area at 129 South Broad Street (the former New York Sports Club).  The applicant was questioned about having an elevator to access the roof; however, this is not required in buildings that are less than three floors.  Therefore, it will be ADA compliant without an elevator.  The business is called Fitometry and is privately owned.  The application was approved.

 

The Planning Board also reviewed a proposed ordinance to amend Chapter 190, Section 190-99, Zoning Map.  The Zoning Map was last updated in June of 2012, and therefore it needed updating.  It was introduced and passed upon first reading at the March 9, 2022 Village Council meeting and will be considered for final passage at the April 13, 2022 Village Council meeting.  The next Planning Board meeting will be held on April 5, 2022.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds attended the first meeting of the Project Pride Committee last week.  There were 12 people in attendance and everyone is really excited to beautify the CBD.  They will have a table present on Earth Day held on April 10, 2022.  They are hopeful that many people will sign up as volunteers to do plantings in the CBD on May 22, 2022.  Anyone interested should contact Councilwoman Reynolds at lreynolds@ridgewoodnj.net.

 

There was also a discussion about reviving the hanging baskets on the light poles in the CBD; however, the light poles were changed by Public Service Electric & Gas (PSE&G) several years ago from cast iron poles to aluminum poles and the Village Engineer determined that the new poles would not be adequate to handle the weight of the hanging baskets.  However, the light poles in Van Neste Park are still the older cast iron style, so the hanging baskets will be hung there.

 

The committee also discussed native perennials and native annuals for the flower pots, and it was decided that the native perennials are the best for flower beds.  However, they are looking into native annuals to be planted in the pots.  They are very fortunate to have a horticultural expert on the committee, who is helping them determine what types of flowers will work best for the CBD.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds was excited to announce that the Project Pride Committee is reviving the Sunflower Project Pride Award, which has not been held for the past seven or eight years.  Residents who create a beautiful front yard at their home get nominated to receive a sunflower which is about four feet high.  There are about six to eight awards given out every couple of weeks during the summer months.  The next Project Pride meeting will be held on March 31, 2022 at 7:00 P.M. at The Stable.

 

There was a Citizens Safety Advisory Committee (CSAC) meeting held on March 17, 2022.  Some members are working on developing banners for “Smart Street New Jersey” to be hung on the lampposts in the CBD.  There are two committee members who will be presenting the banner designs to the Village Council this evening.

 

The West Glen Avenue sidewalk program will continue this spring.  The sidewalks will probably not be completed this year, but they will continue to be constructed.  Age-Friendly Ridgewood had a Zoom meeting on March 9, 2022 to discuss the topic of bicycle riding on the sidewalks in the CBD.  There were nine people in attendance at the Zoom meeting, and the consensus was that sidewalk bike riding was unsafe and shouldn’t be promoted. 

 

Councilwoman Reynolds announced that Age-Friendly Ridgewood will be developing and conducting several educational programs to promote safe biking habits: “Learn to Ride” programs and “Walk Your Wheels” safety training using the School Safety Officer.  Additional bike racks will be installed in the CBD, if possible, to facilitate walking throughout the CBD.  The Easy Ride organization will be providing a bicycle program in coordination with the Board of Education at select Ridgewood schools on May 14, 2022. 

 

Councilwoman Reynolds indicated that one resident at the meeting broached the subject of the poor condition of the pavement along Franklin Avenue and the existing light signal at the intersection of North Maple Avenue and Franklin Avenue.  Repaving Franklin Avenue is planned for this year, and there is a long-term Franklin Avenue corridor improvement project with Bergen County.  This project includes the modernization of signals along Franklin Avenue, and the committee is awaiting word from the County as to a timeline for that project.

 

This same resident also brought up the recent pedestrian/motor vehicle accident which occurred at the intersection of East Ridgewood Avenue and Broad Street.  He suggested the use of four-way stop signs at that intersection.  A discussion ensued, but nothing was decided since they didn’t have enough information regarding how the accident had occurred.  A CSAC member offered to review the police report and bring the information to the April 2022 CSAC meeting.

 

Several factors that reduce safety in the Village were discussed.  Contributing factors which compromise safety include distracted walking and driving, failure to stop for pedestrians in crosswalks, failure of pedestrians to give adequate advanced notice of their crossing intentions, failure of vehicles to make complete stops at stop signs, drivers making a right turn on red when there is a pedestrian in the crosswalk, and speeding.  Enforcement of these contributing factors is the key to ensure safety of both pedestrians and drivers.  They will be reviewing these factors with the Ridgewood Police Department to see if more enforcement can be conducted in the CBD.  The next CSAC meeting will be held on April 21, 2022 at 7:30 P.M. in the Garden Room at Village Hall.

 

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon announced that the Green Team met last week and they are getting close to the first deadline submission (May 22, 2022) for the Sustainable Jersey Municipal Certification Program.  The next meeting will be held on April 5, 2022, at which time the submission will be discussed and reviewed to see what is left to be done.  He hopes that Ridgewood can once again receive a Silver Certification.  Silver Certification means a municipality has made significant progress in a number of categories toward sustainability and is a statewide and national leader.

 

The Community Center Advisory Board meets on March 24, 2022 at 5:00 P.M. and the Ridgewood Arts Council next meets on March 24, 2022 at 8:00 P.M.

 

Mayor Knudsen announced that the Village has received a beautiful plaque and banner for the Lifestyle Challenge program, which will be handed over to Dawn Cetrulo, Director of the Health Department.  The Mayor’s Weight Loss Challenge was a success in prior years, with many participants, but it was decided to rename it as the Lifestyle Challenge in order to include more people, focus on lifestyle changes, and avoid the stigma of the words “weight loss.”

 

The Planning Board will meet on April 5, 2022, at which time Heyer Gruel will present the preliminary Master Plan document.  Mayor Knudsen said that the only part of the plan which may be missing is the open space portion.  They are working on setting a date for final review and public hearing.  Residents are welcome to attend.

 

The Library Board of Trustees met on March 22, 2022.  The Annual Reading Marathon included 1,600 participants, with a total of 36,000 books read.  This number of books is lower than previous years, and Mayor Knudson said that this decline was felt to be due to moving from a paper-based log form to an online log form, and some teachers are not seeing what books their students are reading.  They are going to troubleshoot this to try to solve this problem.

 

Tickets for the Author’s Luncheon are almost sold out, with the last day of ticket sales being March 25, 2022.  The Friends of the Ridgewood Public Library will be holding the luncheon on April 6, 2022 from 11:00 A.M. to 2:30 P.M.  The guest of honor will be Yaa Gyasi, author of “Homecoming” and “Transcendent Kingdom.”  The luncheon will be held at Seasons Restaurant, 644 Pascack Road, Washington Township, New Jersey.  Anyone interested in purchasing tickets can do so by logging on to the Ridgewood Public Library website.  There will be 40 gift baskets and prizes to be awarded during the Tricky Tray part of the luncheon.  There will also be a Silent Auction.

 

The RFP for work at the Pease Library went out and two bids have been received from very highly qualified companies.  The Library Board of Trustees is reviewing the bids and will make a recommendation to the Village Council shortly.  Mayor Knudsen thanked Nancy Greene of the Ridgewood Library  and Mr. Rogers, Village Attorney, for getting the RFP done so quickly.

 

The ACCESS Committee met on March 17, 2022 and they continued to explore options for employment opportunities for the special needs community in Ridgewood.  They discussed ways of encouraging businesses to invest in a thrift shop in the CBD, so that some employment opportunities could be established.  They are working closely with the United Way and Madeline House.

 

Mayor Knudsen discussed the Fitometry minor site plan application review.  Having to install an elevator in the building (former New York Sports Club building) would have been cost prohibitive for the business owner and, in all likelihood, he would not have been able to proceed with opening his business if an elevator would have been required.  The ACCESS Committee will reach out to the Village Attorney in the future to see if any ordinances could be adopted which would require elevators to be installed in commercial buildings that are more than two stories high.  The owner of Fitometry indicated that the rooftop amenities would be the same amenities as those offered inside the building, but without the sunshine.  Mayor Knudsen welcomed the owner of Fitometry to the Ridgewood business community.

 

Mayor Knudsen announced that Ridgewood is the recipient of a $2.8 million State and Tribal Assistance Grant (STAG) through the Environmental Protection Agency.  These federal funds will be used towards PFAS treatment of the drinking water.  Mayor Knudsen remarked that on April 9, 2021, Congressman Josh Gottheimer organized a meeting of elected officials to review different grant opportunities.  At that time, Mayor Knudsen learned that Ridgewood would be eligible to receive these grant monies since there already existed a “shovel ready” project with the Water Department. 

 

Mayor Knudsen thanked Richard Calbi and his staff from Ridgewood Water, as well as the Village Manager, who worked so diligently on writing this grant request in less than a week’s time.  She also thanked everyone who wrote letters of support, which needed to be included in the grant application:  Councilwoman Perron, Deputy Mayor Sedon, Councilwoman Reynolds, former Councilwoman Walsh, Commissioner Hache, the Mayors of Midland Park, Wyckoff, and Glen Rock (serviced by Ridgewood Water), and Board of Education members.  Mayor Knudson also expressed gratitude to Congressman Gottheimer and Senator Menendez for expediting the grant application.

 

Councilwoman Perron asked Mayor Knudsen about the Heyer Gruel presentation of the Master Plan on April 5, 2022.  She asked whether or not there would be any documents available beforehand that could be reviewed prior to the meeting.  Mayor Knudsen replied that it will only be a presentation and review for input.  However, she stated that she would get further information from John Barry from Heyer Gruel and confirm that with Councilwoman Perron.

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon made a motion to suspend the Work Session and convene a Special Public Meeting, seconded by Councilwoman Perron.

 

 

Roll Call Vote

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

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon 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, Sedon, Vagianos; Mayor Knudsen

NAYS:         None

ABSENT:    None

ABSTAIN:   None

 

5.         PRESENTATION

 

A.        CITIZENS SAFETY ADVISORY COMMITTEE – BANNERS IN THE CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT

 

Jane Remis and Anastasia Bamberg spoke about the proposed banners to be hung in the CBD promoting pedestrian safety.  Ms. Bamberg indicated that she is a member of the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee (CSAC).  Pedestrian safety is a nationwide concern, particularly in New Jersey.  The Federal government has designated New Jersey as a Pedestrian Focus State, because New Jersey has double the national average of pedestrian fatalities.  In 2021, New Jersey had the highest number of pedestrian fatalities in 30 years.  In 2022, to date, there is a 10% increase in pedestrian fatalities.

 

Ms. Bamberg stated that all the comments made during the new Master Plan survey process and during the monthly CSAC meetings demonstrate that there is a concern about pedestrian safety in the Village.  Street Smart NJ is one of the many initiatives being conducted in New Jersey to help reach its goal of zero pedestrian fatalities.  This initiative, developed by the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority, aims to raise awareness of pedestrian and motorist laws and change the behaviors that lead to pedestrian and cyclist crashes and fatalities.  More than 200 communities in New Jersey have participated in some way in this initiative since the program’s inception.

 

Ms. Bamberg indicated that the CSAC is recommending that the Village participate in the campaign by displaying pedestrian safety banners in the CBD.  There are six different banners proposed:  three focused on pedestrians and three aimed at drivers.  The core messages are “Walk Smart,” “Drive Smart,” and “Be Street Smart.”  Specific messages are worded as follows:  “We Look Before Crossing,” “Heads Up, Phones Down,” “We Slow Down for Safety,” “We STOP for People - It’s the Law,” “We Use Crosswalks,” “We Cross at Corners,” “We Cross at the Light,” and “We Wait for the Walk Sign.”

 

Ms. Bamberg indicated that the committee is proposing to hang these two-sided banners for six weeks in the spring (starting shortly) and six weeks in the fall, on 12 light poles in the CBD, which are equipped with the sleeves to hold banners.  They hope to obtain funding through private donations after Village Council approval.

 

Ms. Remis stated that the banner messages will be viewed by both Ridgewood residents and non-resident visitors to the CBD.  Similar banners hung in other communities serve to reinforce their message of pedestrian and vehicular safety.  Education and repetition are the keys to their success.  Evaluations of previous Street Smart NJ campaigns have shown positive results.  Based on an analysis of campaigns in 2018 and 2019, there was a 60% improvement in drivers stopping for people crossing the street before turning at a red light or stop sign, a 40% improvement in drivers stopping for pedestrians before turning at a green signal, and a 20% reduction in the number of pedestrians crossing unsafely against a signal or outside of a crosswalk.

 

Ms. Remis stated that the banners are a good start.  However, the Village, community and business leaders, and organizations should get involved in the Street Smart NJ effort, spreading the word through grassroots public awareness, social media, and public outreach efforts.  CSAC is asking for the Village Council’s support in allowing these banners to be hung in the CBD in order to improve pedestrian safety.  The driver banners are a bright green with silhouettes of people crossing the road (so as to not distract drivers or pedestrians with too many details), and the pedestrian banners are photo-like.  A total of 12 banners would be ordered, since there are 12 bracket poles in the CBD.  Each banner costs $35.00.

 

Councilman Vagianos stated that he thought this was a terrific initiative because reinforcement of pedestrian safety is very important.  He said that although Ridgewood Avenue, like many other main streets across the country, appears safe, it can actually be quite dangerous because people are not as careful.  He stated that one of his concerns is watching people cross the street in a crosswalk while texting, assuming that they are safe because they are in a crosswalk.  He asked if such a message (no texting) could be included on one of the banners. 

 

Ms. Remis replied that these banners were designed by Street Smart NJ; however, she agreed with Councilman Vagianos that texting while crossing a street, even in a crosswalk, is definitely a concern.  Councilman Vagianos stated that he completely supported the use of the banners; however, he would like to see some banners addressing the texting issue.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds remarked that she thought it was a great idea and was looking forward to seeing the banners hung on the light poles in the CBD.

Councilwoman Perron asked if the banners would be hung on both the east and west sides of the Village.  Ms. Remis replied that there are no light poles with brackets on the west side of the CBD, but stated that she would like to see the banners hung there as well.  Councilwoman Perron also asked if businesses would be able to sponsor the banners.  Ms. Bamberg replied that businesses could make donations towards the banners, but that business names could not be advertised on the banners.

 

Ms. Remis remarked that other towns have installed the banners by tying them to light poles rather than using brackets, which might be a way of displaying the banners on the west side of the CBD.  Some banners in other towns are displayed on light signal posts or foam boards.

 

Councilman Vagianos asked how long the banners would be displayed, since the light pole brackets are used for other messages as well during the year.  Ms. Remis replied that they are proposing to hang the banners for six weeks in the spring and six weeks in the fall (late September, October) so that the messages don’t get stale.

 

Deputy Mayor Sedon thanked Ms. Remis and Ms. Bamberg for their presentation.  He stated that it was a great initiative.

 

Mayor Knudsen indicated that she totally supported this banner campaign.  She felt that perhaps the Village Council should look into funding the banners, if possible.  She thought it was a great idea to take the banners down and rotate them so that the messages don’t become stale.  She stated that she was under the impression that there were more than 12 light poles with brackets or sleeves, because a dozen or more brackets were ordered in either 2016 or 2017 to display the Historic Central Business District banners and “Good Life Ridgewood” banners. 

 

Ms. Bamberg indicated that she has visited the CBD numerous times over the past few weeks, specifically looking at the brackets for hanging baskets.  She noticed a lot of light poles with brackets, but she didn’t count how many there were.  Ms. Remis said that she did count the number of light poles with brackets, but perhaps did not count every one of them.  They counted the ones which had the holiday banners on them at that time, but some may have been obscured by the snowflakes hanging during the holiday season.  However, she mentioned that they don’t want the banners to be displayed every 10 feet or so, which would lead to them being ignored by pedestrians and drivers.  It was agreed that it would be nice to have them on the west side of town as well.  The committee will check with the Village Engineer or the Traffic and Signal Department to determine exactly how many light poles have the brackets.

 

There was a discussion about using foam boards.  It was mentioned that Public Service Electric & Gas is very particular about what is hung on their poles.  There was also a discussion as to how high up the banners would be hung so that visibility would not be an issue for either pedestrians or drivers.  Ms. Remis replied that she has seen these banners in Westwood and Bradley Beach, and they are hung about five feet off the ground.  They may be hung higher on the walk signal posts.  Mayor Knudsen thought that the banners would need to be hung high enough so that they would not get lost in the “visual noise,” since there is a lot of signage in the CBD.

 

6.         DISCUSSION

 

A.        RIDGEWOOD WATER

 

            1.         AWARD CONTRACT – PRINTING OF PFAS PUBLIC NOTICES

 

Mr. Calbi announced that the first item regarded the awarding of contract for printing of PFAS public notices for Ridgewood Water.  He indicated that Ridgewood Water is required to send quarterly public notices to all consumers regarding the PFAS drinking water contamination.  Ridgewood Water received three quotations from local printers, and the lowest responsible bid was received from Ridgewood Press in Ridgewood, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $40,912.00 for the year 2022.  This would entail the printing, folding and mail house delivery of four quarterly notices for 2022.  Funding is accounted for in the Water Department Operating Budget.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds remarked about all of the people on social media “freaking out” about receiving such a notice, as though it were the first time they had ever heard about PFAS in the drinking water.  She asked Mr. Calbi whether the PFAS presentations he gave before the Village Council a few weeks ago were posted on the Ridgewood Water website.  Mr. Calbi replied that the presentations were not recorded, so they are not posted on their website.  However, they are planning to possibly do another presentation, which will be recorded. 

 

Councilwoman Reynolds replied that she thought it would be great to do so, so that the public can view the presentation(s) on the website and stay up to date on the latest developments, while at the same time alleviating their fears.  Councilman Vagianos concurred with Councilwoman Reynolds.  He felt that the public needs to be kept informed about the issues surrounding PFAS in the water, the measures being taken by Ridgewood Water to alleviate the issue, and the fact that this is not strictly a Ridgewood problem, but rather a worldwide problem. 

 

Councilwoman Perron felt that Mr. Calbi speaking about the issue is what reassures people the most, and she suggested that he compose his own video.  She mentioned an email from one resident who was not only upset about the PFAS issue, but also that he was having trouble getting through on the phone to Ridgewood Water.  Mr. Calbi replied that the Ridgewood phone system is in the midst of being updated, the project is running a bit behind, and his phone system is failing, all of which may account for the trouble encountered by the resident in not being able to reach his office.  He said that, hopefully, they are only days away from having the new system completely up and running. 

 

Mayor Knudsen indicated that she and Mr. Calbi had a phone discussion with the same resident recently, and it seemed as though the resident’s fears were allayed.  Mayor Knudsen feels that if more people were aware that PFAS is a worldwide issue, rather than just a Ridgewood issue, they would be more understanding of the “forever chemical” situation.  Mr. Calbi mentioned that the first three presentations he gave on this matter were very well attended, with over 100 people at each session.  Mayor Knudsen suggested putting up a slideshow on the Ridgewood Water website with short, succinct facts about the PFAS problem per slide.

 

2.         AWARD YEAR TWO OF CONTRACT – COLD WATER METERS AND ACCESSORIES

 

Mr. Calbi indicated that this item pertains to the awarding of year two of a two-year contract for the provision of cold water meters and accessories for Ridgewood Water.  Mr. Calbi is recommending the award of year two of the contract to Rio Supply, Inc., of Sicklerville, New Jersey, in the amount of $214,642.50.  Funding for this contract is budgeted for in the Water Utility Operating Budget.

 

3.         AWARD SOLE SOURCE CONTRACT – CORROSION INHIBITOR ESC 532

 

Mr. Calbi indicated that this item pertains to the awarding of a sole source contract award to ESC Environmental of Glenville, New York, to furnish corrosion control materials for use by Ridgewood Water, in an amount not to exceed $185,000.00 for the year 2022.  The formula utilized is ESC 532, which is injected into the water stream prior to it entering the distribution system.  The phosphates create a thin coating on the inside of plumbing materials, effectively preventing the corrosion of lead and copper into the water. 

 

This corrosion control program has been mandated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP).  Ridgewood Water utilizes poly-orthophosphate to control corrosion in the system.  Since using the inhibitor ESC 532 at all of the active treatment facilities in 2016, they have seen lead and copper levels reduced significantly below NJDEP action levels.  The last round of lead sampling resulted in non-detect levels.

 

ESC Environmental uses a unique blend of polyphosphates and orthophosphates that is developed and distributed solely through their company.  Utilizing a consistent formula via the same blend is important for Ridgewood Water to maintain corrosion control.  Varying treatment formulas can alter the system characteristics and void the protections afforded by the use of the current inhibitor.  Funding for this purchase is budgeted in the Water Utility Operating Budget.

 

Councilman Vagianos asked Mr. Calbi to verify that the polyphosphates are safe, because they didn’t sound so natural.  Mr. Calbi replied that all of these chemicals are NSF approved and that food-grade products are used.

 

            4.         REFUND OF OVERPAYMENT OF WATER ACCOUNT

 

Mr. Calbi stated that this next item pertains to the refund of an overpayment made on a customer’s water account.  The customer, Wai Lun Chang, erroneously paid $1,763.17 to their water account on February 17, 2022.  As a result, they have a credit balance of $1,649.95 (there was some money owed on the account).  Mr. Calbi indicated that any refunds over $1,000.00 require approval by the Village Council.

 

B.        PARKING

 

1.         PARKING SPACES ON MAPLE AVENUE FOR NEW RIDGEWOOD WATER OFFICE

 

Mr. Calbi indicated that this item pertains to a request for changes to the Parking Ordinance.  The new Ridgewood Water headquarters are under construction at 111 North Maple Avenue.  Mr. Calbi requested Mr. Rutishauser to prepare an amendment to the Parking Ordinance dealing with three parking spaces located in front of the building on North Maple Avenue.

 

The proposed ordinance is presented for consideration by the Village Council.  It will memorialize the proposed parking spaces and make the entrance driveway to the new headquarters from North Maple Avenue to the rear of the Library parking lot as a one-way drive aisle for Ridgewood Water vehicles only.  Appropriate signage will be installed stating “Authorized Vehicles Only.”  The new spaces will be marked “30 Minute Time Limit Parking” Monday to Friday, except holidays, between 8:30 A.M. and 4:30 P.M.  The time limit is recommended to preserve these spaces for customers who need to visit Ridgewood Water if they have a question or want to pay their bill in person. 

 

When questioned by Councilwoman Reynolds, Mr. Calbi confirmed that one of those spaces will be for handicapped parking.  Councilwoman Reynolds stated that a question arose at a Planning Board meeting regarding the width of Maple Avenue in front of the new Ridgewood Water headquarters versus the width of Maple Avenue in front of Village Hall.  Mr. Calbi said that he does not know the dimensions, but the Village Engineer did perform measurements and confirmed that it would be safe to go ahead with the proposed ordinance. 

 

Mr. Calbi said that he would have Mr. Rutishauser reconfirm the measurements and announce his findings to the Village Council at the next Work Session.  There was discussion surrounding a picture presented by Mr. Calbi showing a tractor trailer parked in those parking spaces.  Deputy Mayor Sedon indicated that if a tractor trailer could fit there, then an ordinary vehicle such as a car could park there with no problem and not block the roadway.

 

Mayor Knudsen asked if there would be signage by the three parking spaces that designate parking for Ridgewood Water only.  Mr. Calbi said that the only signage by the parking spaces would designate the 30-minute time limits and days and hours when in force.

 

C.        BUDGET

 

1.         AWARD CONTRACT – ANIMAL CONTROL SERVICES AND WATERFOWL MANAGEMENT THROUGH JUNE 30, 2022

 

This item deals with an award of contract for animal control services and waterfowl management.  The Village entered into a two-year contract with TYCO Animal Control Services in June of 2020 and the current contract expires in June 2022.  There is a recommendation by Dawn Cetrulo, Director of the Health Department, for a resolution to fund the remainder of the contract.  The yearly charge is $31,800.00 ($26,800.00 for animal control services and $5,000.00 for waterfowl management). 

 

2.         AWARD CONTRACT – ANIMAL CONTROL SERVICES AND WATERFOWL MANAGEMENT 2022-2024

 

This item pertains to the award of the same contract to TYCO Animal Control Services which will run from July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2024, at a yearly charge of $32,400.00, an increase of $50 per month from the original contract.  The breakdown will be $27,400.00 for animal control and $5,000.00 for waterfowl management.

 

                        3.         AWARD CONTRACT – HORTICULTURAL SUPPLIES

 

This item deals with an award of year two of a two-year contract for horticultural supplies for 2021 and 2022 for the Parks and Recreation Department and Project Pride to the sole responsible bidder, Site One Landscape Supply located in Mahwah, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $48,500.00.  The original contract date is May 12, 2021.  This would be allocated to the Parks Division Operating Budget, Horticultural Supplies, not to exceed $40,500.00, and Project Pride, not to exceed $8,000.00.

 

Councilwoman Reynolds mentioned that the budget shows that the sum of $16,000.00 would be awarded to Project Pride, instead of the $8,000.00 shown in the proposed resolution.  This was confirmed by Mr. Rooney when she spoke with him.  She stated that $8,000.00 will not be enough money to complete the planned projects.  Mayor Knudsen indicated that this subject is on the agenda for the next meeting and the correct amount will be shown at that time. Mr. Rooney had indicated that he would speak with Ms. Bigos in the Parks Division to work out the amounts.  Councilwoman Reynolds indicated that $13,000.00 would probably be enough to complete their projects.  Mr. Calbi indicated that a corrected version of the proposed resolution had actually been submitted that day, but it was too late to be copied for this evening’s meeting.  The corrected version indicates $35,500.00 for the Parks Division and $13,000.00 for Project Pride.

 

                        4.         AWARD CONTRACT – ROAD RESURFACING AND REPAIRS

 

This items pertains to the award of a contract for road resurfacing and repairs on various Village Streets.  The Village received bids on Friday, February 25, 2022 at 10:00 A.M. for the referenced project.  There were 13 bids received, ranging from a low of $2,189,190.85 to a high of $3,191,185.30 (a spread of $1,001,994.50).  The Village Engineer is recommending approval of the contract to the lowest responsible bidder, American Asphalt and Trucking, LLC, located in Newark, New Jersey with a quote of $2,189,190.85.  There will be an initial partial award to the contractor of $2 million to start the paving work as soon as possible.  Funding for this work is available in the 2022 Capital Budget.

 

Councilwoman Perron asked why there was such a spread in  the bids received.  Mr. Calbi replied that there was no specific reason, but he stated that it is quite common to see such a spread when there are a lot of bids received.  Councilwoman Perron asked why it was beneficial to make a partial award to the contractor at this time.  Mr. Calbi will consult with the Village Engineer about that; however, he stated that the Village Engineer reviews the work that he believes can be completed in 2022 and awards monies that he thinks will be utilized this year.  It also is helpful to do it this way in case the contractor does not work out for any reason.

 

                        5.         DECLARE SURPLUS – POLICE VEHICLES

 

This items deals with declaring police vehicles as surplus, as recommended by Sgt. John Chuck of the Ridgewood Police Department.  Police cars #2 and #24 have been determined to not be needed anymore and are in need of repairs that exceed the value of the vehicles.  Car #2 requires suspension work and rear end work, and car #14 needs transmission work, body work, and other general maintenance work.  The Fleet Department has inspected the vehicles and agrees that they should not be repaired or rehabilitated.  These vehicles will be turned over to Enterprise LLC and sold at public auction.  Proceeds from the sale will be credited to the Ridgewood Police Department for the purchase of future vehicles. 

 

6.         ACCEPT GRANT – USDA NATURAL RESOURCES CONSERVATION SERVICE – EMERGENCY WATERSHED PROTECTION PROGRAM GRANT

 

This item deals with accepting a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NCRS) Emergency Watershed Protection Program to be used by the Village to assist in Streambank Stabilization and Debris Removal at specific locations along the Ho-Ho-Kus Brook and Saddle River, resulting from the remnants of Hurricane Ida.  The Village of Ridgewood has been advised that it is eligible for this grant, due to the efforts of the Department of Public Works, Engineering Division. 

 

The Federal grant amount is $201,960.00.  There is a contributing amount required from the Village in the amount of $61,200.00.  The proposed resolution is to authorize either the Village Manager and/or the Director of Public Works/Engineering Division to execute all necessary forms for obtaining this grant for the Village.  This is the second time the Engineering Division has gotten such a grant to assist the Village, with the first time being in 2012 after Hurricane Irene.

 

Councilwoman Perron remarked that the proposed resolution was confusing, because in one area it indicates that the Village is eligible for the grant, yet elsewhere the wording seems to indicate that the Village has already been granted these monies.  She also thought it was odd that the word “flooding” is never used, while the main purpose of removing debris seems to be to prevent flooding.  However, she commended the Engineering Department for their energy and creativity in obtaining this grant to maintain the Village’s streams.

 

7.         RELEASE OF PERFORMANCE SURETY BOND – THE BENJAMIN

 

This item pertains to the release of a Performance Surety Bond for The Benjamin development at 9-27 Franklin Avenue.  This is a recommendation from the Village Engineer based on his review of their request and his determination that the work the bond covered has been satisfactorily completed.

 

D.        OPERATIONS

 

1.         PROPOSED ENCROACHMENT AGREEMENT – 80 OAK STREET

 

This item deals with a proposed encroachment agreement for 80 Oak Street.  The resident, Soo Young Lee, is seeking to repair a retaining wall along the front of his property.  In going through the permit process, it was discovered that the wall is within the Village’s right-of-way of Oak Street.  The resident wishes to maintain the wall and has submitted a request for an Encroachment Agreement relating to the wall’s placement.  The encroachment into the Village’s right-of-way is minimal.  Approval of this agreement is recommended by the Village Engineer.

 

Councilwoman Perron pointed out that nothing in the resolution or Encroachment Agreement quantifies the measurements of the current encroachment, other than describing it as “minor.”  She said that there is reliance upon a survey done in 1994.  She would like to see better language in these documents quantifying the scope of the encroachment.  Councilwoman Reynolds concurred with Councilwoman Perron.  Mr. Calbi remarked that the subject wall goes right up to the sidewalk and has been there for many years.  He remarked that a new survey could be obtained with a metes and bounds description at the homeowner’s cost; however, he said that older surveys have been used in the past.

 

Councilwoman Perron said that she spoke with Christopher Rutishauser, Village Engineer, and he felt that the survey would be adequate in this regard.  Mayor Knudsen said that the homeowner wants to improve/fix the retaining wall and that it was a de minimus encroachment.  She feels that the resolution and Encroachment Agreement should proceed.  Many similar cases such as this have been considered and approved in the past by the Village Council.  Mr. Calbi added that there is an indemnification/hold harmless clause in the Encroachment Agreement, which would protect the Village against any liability incurred during performance of the wall renovations.

 

7.         COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC

 

Rurik Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, stated that the dining corrals are a great attraction to the Village dining scene.  The dining corrals will be gone in a few days and he described it as “another nail in the coffin” for the CBD.  Regarding the brick-and-mortar merchants in the CBD, Mr. Halaby said that these businesses will not be strengthened by weakening the restaurants, which are now the main drivers of the vitality of the CBD. 

 

Comparing Ridgewood to the healthy shopping environment in Westwood, Mr. Halaby feels that the only way to attract shoppers to the Village is to do something about the ridiculously high parking rates.  He said the $1.25 per hour charge and the kiosks drive many people away.  Westwood has parking meters and charges 25¢ per hour.  He stated that people are attracted to Ridgewood because of the restaurants, and more visitors would come if the parking fees were reduced or eliminated altogether. 

 

Mr. Halaby pointed out that there is no lack of parking spaces in the Village, particularly since the Parking Garage was constructed.  He stated that when Mayor Knudsen was being interviewed by CBS, she made the comment that “the garage was built for commuters and employees, not shoppers.”  He refuted this by stating that the garage was indeed built for shoppers as well as commuters and employees.

 

Regarding the budget meetings, Mr. Halaby stated that he did not attend the various budget meetings this year, but did attend them last year, at which time he felt like he was attending a lecture on Egyptian hieroglyphics.  He said everything went “over his head” because he had no access to the documents which were being discussed amongst the Councilmembers.  Mr. Halaby spoke about transparency and stated that Mr. Rooney should make a public presentation of the budget in terms that the public can understand.  He compared the “transparency” of the Village government as “mud in an Iowa barnyard,” stating that there is no transparency whatsoever. 

 

Regarding the Village website, Mr. Halaby said that Village officials should view the websites developed by Franklin Lakes, Westfield and Glen Rock.

 

Jeanne Johnson, 325 Mastin Place, wanted to speak further about making Ridgewood a safe walkable community.  The engineers and city planners who are devising the Master Plan are recommending measures to reduce vehicular traffic in the CBD.  Ms. Johnson wondered why Village officials are paying for these consultants if they do not plan to heed their advice.  Pedestrian safety advocates know that it takes a significant behavioral shift to create a vibrant downtown.  Much has been accomplished in the last two years through the efforts of a small group of committed residents. 

 

Ms. Johnson feels that Village officials need to figure out ways of deterring motorists from the CBD so that residents and visitors can take advantage of the safer environment.  Encouraging walking instead of driving is good for everyone’s personal health, for the environment, and for commerce.  She spoke about one of the most expensive shopping districts in the world, which is in Paris, France.  There, they are closing four lanes of roadway by the Champs-d’ Elysee and converting it to a pedestrian plaza.

 

Ms. Johnson stated that the dining corrals in the CBD are good for Ridgewood.  She asked that the Village Council reconsider their decision to eliminate the dining corrals as of March 31, 2022 or, at the very least, arrive at some sort of compromise so that the traction gained is not lost.  She feels that encouraging motorists to park in the Parking Garage will generate income to help pay for it.

 

Lillian Blood, 250 North Maple Avenue, said that she felt it was silly to limit public comments at the end of meetings to only five minutes, especially for those who waited for the entire meeting before being able to speak.  She felt that it would be courteous to allow someone who is speaking an extra minute or two for them to finish their comments.  In this way, the Village Council could better understand the residents’ wants and needs.

 

Regarding pickleball, Ms. Blood said that the players are enjoying their time at the courts and are looking forward to the new sound-absorbing barriers to be installed.  She asked if the Village Council could reconsider which days the pickleball players would be allowed to play, since some days are sunny and some are rainy.

 

Councilwoman Perron mentioned that during budget meetings, the documents relating to the budget are “fluid” and constantly changing as discussions progress.  She believes that this is one of the reasons why it is so difficult for the public to understand what is transpiring at the meetings.  She does feel that it would be productive for Mr. Rooney to make a presentation and answer questions, not in a Village Council meeting setting, but in an informal question-and-answer session.  She would like the Village Manager to consider that proposal.  Councilwoman Perron said that she cannot require Mr. Rooney to hold such a question-and-answer session, but rather it is the responsibility of the Village Manager to direct him to do so. 

 

Regarding the parking kiosks, Councilwoman Perron mentioned that there have been so many problems with them (the quarters won’t insert, no receipts are printed) and it happens frequently.  Councilwoman Perron asked if the kiosks were still under warranty, since she feels that the manufacturer should have made a better product. 

 

Mayor Knudsen said that she usually takes a picture of the kiosk when the quarter won’t go in and emails the photo to Ms. Mailander.  However, she mentioned that there should be some tool that could be used by the Parking Enforcement Officers (PEOs) to enable them to push the quarters into the slot on the kiosk.  She and Councilwoman Perron stated that this happens to them all the time.  She said that some people like to pay with quarters but, if the quarters can’t be inserted into the slot, then she didn’t feel that people should be obligated to pay with a credit card or debit card or use ParkMobile.  She would like to troubleshoot this matter and see if there is some way this problem could be resolved.   Councilwoman Perron remarked that she figured out that she has to wait a few seconds for the slot to open before the coins can be inserted.

 

With regard to the dining corrals, Councilwoman Perron stated that she agrees with Mr. Halaby who said that if the dining corrals are removed, this will weaken not only the restaurants, but also the business community as a whole.  She mentioned another comment made this evening that there is presently a bill in the Senate which would extend outdoor dining throughout the State of New Jersey.  Therefore, if the dining corrals are abolished, she feels that Ridgewood “will be left in the dust.”  Ridgewood will not be the destination of diners anymore, and they will go to other towns which offer outdoor dining amenities.  In turn, this will affect the amount of foot traffic seen in the CBD, which is needed by the retail businesses.

 

Mayor Knudsen replied that many retailers and landlords are contacting her saying that the dining corrals are hurting their businesses.  She stated that this is a very complex issue since there are many dynamic components involved.  Dining corrals benefit the restaurants, but they are hurting other non-food businesses (service and retail).  She is not opposed to the dining corrals, but she understand the pleas of the other businesses who have indicated that their revenues have decreased by 40% to 50% due to the dining corrals.  Mayor Knudsen fears that those businesses will close, resulting in mass vacancies in the CBD.

 

Councilman Vagianos, addressing Ms. Blood, indicated that he spoke with Nancy Bigos, Director of Parks and Recreation, and she stated that she has been following up with the vendor for the sound-absorbing panels which are to be installed at the pickleball courts.  The anticipated date of delivery and installation is approximately by mid-May of 2022.

 

Regarding the budget presentation brought up by Mr. Halaby, Councilman Vagianos stated that he didn’t know that anyone was interested in the budget because there was literally no one in attendance at the first few budget meetings.  However, at the final presentation of the budget by Mr. Rooney, there were approximately 50 to 60 residents in attendance.  He indicated that if the Councilmembers saw a level of interest in the budget process, he would certainly want Mr. Rooney and Ms. Mailander to hold an “open forum” with the public since it deals with taxpayer money.

 

9.         ADJOURNMENT

 

There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Deputy Mayor Sedon, seconded by Mayor Knudsen, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Work Session was adjourned at 9:41 P.M.

 

 

 

                                                                                                                                                           

                                                                                                Susan Knudsen

                                                                                                                     Mayor

 

 

 

                                                                       

Eileen Young

Deputy Village Clerk