Planning Board Public Meeting Minutes 20150616
A REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURTROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY, ON WEDNESDAY, JUNE 10, 2015, AT 8:00 P.M.
1. CALL TO ORDER – OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS ACT – ROLL CALL – FLAG SALUTE – MOMENT OF SILENCE
Mayor Aronsohn called the meeting to order at 8:01 P.M., and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. At roll call, the following were present: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn. Also present were Heather Mailander, Village Clerk; Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney; and Frank Moritz, Director of Ridgewood Water. Ms. Sonenfeld was absent.
Mayor Aronsohn led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag. Mayor Aronsohn then asked for a moment of silence to honor the men and women in the United States Armed Forces who protect and defend our freedom every day, as well as those serving as first responders.
2. ACCEPTANCE OF FINANCIAL REPORTS
Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Bills, Claims, and Vouchers, and Statement of Funds on hand as of May 31, 2015, be accepted as submitted. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
There were no minutes to be approved this evening. There will be minutes considered for approval at the July 15, 2015, Public Meeting.
4. PROCLAMATIONS
There were no proclamations this evening.
5. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Mayor Aronsohn said that recently, there were questions about how public comments are handled at Village Council meetings, compared to the procedures at Board of Education meetings, Planning Board meetings, and procedures in other communities. When Mayor Aronsohn joined the Village Council in 2008, public comments were only heard at the beginning of Village Council meetings, and each member of the public was restricted to three minutes. Several years later, at the suggestion of the late Roger Wiegand, a long-time resident and frequent participant at Village Council meetings, an additional opportunity for public comment, at three minutes per person, was added at the end of each Village Council meeting. Last year, the time limit was increased to five minutes per person, at the beginning and the end of each meeting. That is a bit more time than is allowed in other organizations and municipalities. Mayor Aronsohn stated that the Councilmembers believe that it enriches their discussions, and helps to inform their thinking on issues. That is why they encourage it. Sometimes, there are just a few who wish to speak, and at other times, there are a lot of people who wish to speak. Mayor Aronsohn noted that public comment is a time for comment, and every member of the public can come up to the microphone and speak on any issue, or ask general questions of the Village Council. He asked that, after making comments or posing questions, each member of the public should sit down, and if a Councilmember or the Village Manager, or some other Village personnel, wishes to respond, s/he will do so at that time. Mayor Aronsohn mentioned that there have been complaints that members of the public have been engaging in conversations for up to 5-10 minutes with Councilmembers, while other members of the public are waiting to make their comments.
George Shabet, 334 Lakeview Drive, drew the attention of the Councilmembers to King’s Pond Park, which is the largest wildscape in Ridgewood, and is still in deplorable condition. Mr. Shabet has described the condition of the park at length in meetings with the Village Manager, as well as with the Parks, Recreation, and Conservation Board (PRC), and he is still awaiting a response as to any anticipated actions that will be taken. He gave a brief review of the three major issues. The first is that the concrete dam built in 1968 has been deteriorating for a long time. Mr. Shabet first notified the Village of the deterioration in 1995, and again in 2007 and 2014. Next, the pond was last dredged in 1999, and Mr. Shabet first requested that the pond be dredged again in 2007, and he has repeatedly made that request since then. Finally, he noted that it is essential to remove the dense vegetation growth on the west shoreline that prevents access to the pond. The shoreline was free of vegetation until approximately 2007, when it was allowed to grow unchecked over the following eight years. Since May 2014, Mr. Shabet has met with Ms. Sonenfeld, Mayor Aronsohn, and the Village Council, yet to date, no commitment has been forthcoming. Mr. Shabet’s emails have remained unanswered. He pointed out that all of his requests are detailed in the Village Master Plan of 2006. In that Master Plan, everything Mr. Shabet has discussed over the past year is laid out with respect to each individual task and its cost. However, it is now nine years later, and no action has been taken.
Mr. Shabet tried a different approach this time. He asked the Councilmembers to use him as a “window” to King’s Pond Park. In 2006, anyone sitting on a bench in front of the pond could see along the entire length of the pond, which was free of vegetation. In the fall, the foliage of the trees was visible, and the colors of the leaves were reflected in the pond. Fish were visible as they were swimming approximately four inches below the surface. Flocks of geese would sometimes land on the pond. In the winter, people often skated on the ice, or played hockey. However, by 2014, the only thing visible at the pond is the overgrowth of vegetation. Mr. Shabet again requested that the dam be repaired; the pond be dredged; and the excess vegetation be removed. He asked the Councilmembers what their plan would be to restore the site to its original beauty.
Mayor Aronsohn responded that Ms. Sonenfeld has been working on a solution to that problem, but because she was not at the meeting, he could not say what information she might have.
Councilman Sedon noted the issues raised by Mr. Shabet, and thought the easiest one to address might be the overgrowth of vegetation, which could be cut back. However, he was told that there might be issues with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), because the vegetation is so close to the pond. That was the extent of the information Councilman Sedon received.
Councilwoman Hauck commented that she saw an email within the past month indicating that there might be some change in the NJDEP regulations regarding that area. She pointed out that the problem encountered with cutting back the vegetation was due to the fact that the Village had to get permission to cut back the vegetation, because although the Village does not want the vegetation to remain, the NJDEP believes that the vegetation prevents the geese from soiling the pond. There are many other rules and regulations that are not under the Village’s control, especially with respect to the weeds. Concerning the concrete dam, it was not in this year’s capital budget. However, it is still on a wish list of issues to be addressed.
Councilwoman Knudsen asked for information about how often the vegetation was being maintained prior to the overgrowth, and if the Village was maintaining it. She has not seen any emails from Mr. Shabet, except for possibly one of them, and she heard discussion at Village Council meetings, as well as at the budget meeting. Councilwoman Knudsen said she is interested in understanding how this was managed prior to the overgrowth of vegetation. Mr. Shabet responded that it was not being managed, and it was not growing. He believes that something happened that caused the tremendous growth of bamboo and other weeds, and no one has made any attempt to cut any of it back. If it had been maintained, as it was before, they would not be any issue at this time.
Councilman Pucciarelli noted that Mr. Shabet mentioned bamboo, and asked if there is definitely bamboo growing in the area. Mr. Shabet confirmed that there is a lot of bamboo, and he cut down a section of it so that he could see the dam from his living room. He is not sure whether that was legal, but he pointed out that if he had not cut any of the bamboo/vegetation down, no one would be able to access the pond at this time for fishing, ice skating, or any other activities. Councilman Pucciarelli added that the bamboo is particularly insidious, and requires constant cutting back. Mr. Shabet said that going forward, he will send a picture to the newspapers to allow everyone to see what the area looks like when it is not maintained. Councilman Pucciarelli suggested that cutting out the bamboo completely might alleviate most of the problem with vegetation, but it would require a backhoe to dig out the roots.
Councilwoman Hauck commented that with respect to Mr. Shabet’s point that the Administration must show an interest in doing something about the problem in order to begin any efforts to do so, Nancy Bigos, Assistant Director of the Department of Parks and Recreation, suggested that the next PRC meeting should be held at King’s Pond Park. The meeting will be a “picnic dinner”. Councilwoman Hauck invited all of the other Councilmembers to attend. The meeting will be on Tuesday, June 23rd, at 7:30 P.M.
Jim Griffith, 159 South Irving Street, commented that he went over the budget presentation this past week. Mr. Griffith found it fascinating that the presentation included everything that was going to be done, which was stated in writing. He particularly commended the idea of the bond ordinance to have the money ready when needed to support the parking garage. Mr. Griffith intended to come to this meeting to praise the Councilmembers for finally getting serious about the parking issue, and having everything necessary lined up. However, Mr. Griffith just learned that the vote that was taken was not sufficient to pass the bond ordinance, because a supermajority is required in order to adopt a bond ordinance. He asked if there is anything at this time that blocks the Councilmembers from continuing with the activities outlined in the budget presentation. Mayor Aronsohn answered that the project is still moving forward, although he confirmed that with respect to bond ordinances, it is necessary to have at least four of
the Councilmembers vote in favor of it. Mayor Aronsohn also noted that the vote has not yet been taken on the bond ordinance, but it will be taken tonight.
Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, mentioned that a Ridgewood resident, Anita Boyle, passed away recently. Ms. Boyle and her husband, Gerard Glade Boyle, were active in Ridgewood politics for many years. They attended Village Council meetings on a regular basis, and spoke against the Mayor and Village Manager when proper procedures were not followed. They established a taxpayers’ group to encourage residents to become involved in the community. Mr. Boyle passed away in 2003, and Ms. Loving wanted to acknowledge her passing, because many Ridgewood residents knew the couple.
Regarding the April 8th Village Council minutes, Ms. Loving said she did not understand the comments made by Mayor Aronsohn. Mayor Aronsohn explained that the Councilmembers were scheduled to vote on the approval of those minutes tonight, but one of the Councilmembers requested more time to read the document.
Sally Brandes, 515 Stevens Avenue, stated that she attended several of the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee (CSAC) meetings with respect to the installation of a stop sign at Corella Court, and the elimination of parking on half of Corella Court. At the end of the last meeting, the conclusion was that a stop sign would be installed, and the Village would provide parking at the rear of Hawes School, which has been done. It was decided that the CSAC and they Village would wait to see if that alleviated the staff parking problem at the school before parking was permanently eliminated on Corella Court. Ms. Brandes spoke with Ms. Sonenfeld briefly last week, and Ms. Sonenfeld mentioned that although seven additional spaces were provided, the staff was still continuing to park on Corella Court. Ms. Sonenfeld stated that she would be speaking to Dr. Daniel Fishbein, Superintendent of Schools, about the situation. Ms. Brandes noted that her conversation with Dr. Fishbein apparently had some effect, because for a while, there were approximately four cars belonging to staff members that were parking on Corella Court, and sometimes as many as seven cars parking there. However, Ms. Brandes noted that the spaces behind Hawes School remained empty, in direct correlation to the number of cars parking on Corella Court. Ms. Brandes reminded the Councilmembers that the original problem resulted from staff members at Hawes School parking all day on Corella Court, preventing residents on that street from being able to have guests in their homes and park on the street, or even to have service vehicles come to perform services in their homes. Ms. Brandes believes the solution is simple, and that is to do what was done on South Pleasant Avenue, which runs parallel to Stevens Avenue, and Houston Lane, which runs in front of Hawes School: installing No Parking” signs prohibiting parking from 8:00-9:00 A.M. That forces staff members to use the spaces provided at the rear of the school. It would also allow the taxpayers of Corella Court to use their street. In addition, it would alleviate the problem of forcing parents to back up onto Stevens Avenue, which was another problem because Stevens Avenue is a narrow street, and dangerous driving situations are created by the traffic that results from the cars that are backing up on that street. A stop sign does not necessarily help the problem, because it simply prohibits people from parking within 50 feet of the sign. That is also the same side of the road where parking would be permitted, and it will cause more parking congestion in front of the houses there. Ms. Brandes believes that installing “No Parking” signs prohibiting parking during specific hours would be a far better solution, because they are evidently working on the streets where they are currently installed. The parents who park their cars in the afternoon to wait for their children to be picked up do not remain very long, and they do not leave their vehicles. Most of the parking problems at this time are being caused by staff members’ vehicles. Ms. Brandes requested that the Councilmembers consider her comments.
Monroe Bernold, 500 Corella Court, stated that he is the person who is most affected by the parking situation on Corella Court. Mr. Bernold has been involved in this argument for the past three years. He disagrees with just about everything Ms. Brandes stated. Mr. Bernold’s street is the closest to Hawes School. He noted that Corella Court is as narrow as Stevens Avenue, and the residents on Corella Court deserve, at a minimum, what every other narrow street near a school in Ridgewood has had, which is that no parking is allowed on one side of the street. There are approximately 6-7 cars parked on Corella Court all day during the school year, and they interfere with Mr. Bernold’s driveway. The stop sign will allow Mr. Bernold to get out of his driveway. The police have visited Corella Court regularly over the past several years, and are in agreement that it is a safety problem, as well as a service problem. Twice in the past two years, when Village vehicles have come to remove the leaves, which they do before 8:00 A.M., they pile the leaves into 15-foot-high piles on the street. However, they have not been able to remove the leaves, because several people park their cars right next to the leaves on either side, as well as across the street, impeding access to the leaves for removal. In 2014, Mr. Bernold pointed out that it took two months, during which time he called everyone he could think of in the Village, to get the leaves removed. They were finally removed during the Christmas break because there were no cars present. Mr. Bernold presented pictures of Corella Court under various conditions, including when it snows, to demonstrate impediments posed by cars parking on the street. These include prohibiting all emergency, public service, and delivery vehicles from entering the street. Mr. Bernold mentioned that it only requires 4-5 cars to be parked on the street for this to become a problem.
In addition, Mr. Bernold pointed out that Corella Court should be treated like any other street that is close to a school. All such streets do not have restrictions on parking between 8:00 A.M.-9:00 A.M., and if the Village wanted to enforce such a restriction, Mr. Bernold said it would continue to place him in the unenviable position in which he has found himself for the past three years, and that is being constantly forced to call on the Ridgewood Police Department. Mr. Bernold does not believe that the Police Department wants to issue tickets to teachers.
Furthermore, Mr. Bernold commented that very few cars park north of Corella Court on Stevens Avenue. This was true even when Hawes School was closed for construction. The teachers tend to park their cars on Houston Lane, on the southern part of South Pleasant Avenue, or on Corella Court, because those are the shortest routes to the back entrance of Hawes School. Mr. Bernold believes that Ms. Brandes has no cause for complaint, because she lives on the street on which parking is only allowed on one side.
Mr. Bernold mentioned that his original request to Christopher Rutishauser, Village Engineer, was to limit parking on Corella Court to one side of the street. The only issue on which he agrees with Ms. Brandes is regarding the school parking. Mr. Bernold noted that there are two parking lots for Hawes School, one of which is close to Corella Court, and the other behind the school.
Mayor Aronsohn noted that Mr. Bernold had run out of time to speak, and he added that the issue is on the agenda for this evening, and the ordinance will be adopted. However, the situation will continue to be monitored and revisited to ensure that whatever action is taken will work.
Councilman Sedon stated that he thinks the idea presented by Ms. Brandes is workable, because it could alleviate the teachers’ parking issue. If the current restrictions could be maintained, and an additional parking restriction as suggested by Ms. Brandes could be implemented, it might force the teachers to use the available spaces at the school.
Frank Siccardi, 520 Stevens Avenue, commented that he is aware that the groundwork has been done for the installation of the stop sign. He reminded everyone that Corella Court is a cul-de-sac with a dead-end, and there is only approximately 250 feet leading to the cul-de-sac. Mr. Siccardi does not believe a stop sign is necessary at that location, but he will not oppose the installation of one at that point. However, he disagreed with Mr. Bernold’s observations, because Mr. Siccardi noted that cars are parked in front of his house. Starting at approximately 2:30 P.M. every day, people park their cars in front of his house and along Stevens Avenue as they wait to pick up their children.
The other issue Mr. Siccardi wanted to discuss was that the ordinance includes language to the effect that the parking restrictions would be year-round, but he noted that the only time there is a parking problem is during school hours, when schools are open. Mr. Siccardi believes it is a drastic step to prohibit people from parking on the cul-de-sac when school is not in session, such as in the summer, on weekends, and school holidays, because there is no parking problem at such times. Limiting the parking ordinance to school hours will allow residents in that area to have guests in their homes without having to worry about parking restrictions for their guests. Mr. Siccardi pointed out that the majority of the people living in that area do not agree with the various restrictions that have been proposed and implemented, but they are a silent majority.
There were no other comments from the public at this time, and Mayor Aronsohn closed the time for public comment.
6. MANAGER’S REPORT
There was no Manager’s Report this evening.
7. COUNCIL REPORTS
Fourth of July Committee – Councilwoman Knudsen commented that the Fourth of July Committee met this past Monday evening at the Ridgewood Firehouse. The Committee continues to solicit volunteers for the parade and fireworks, and it is hoped that people will step up as parade marshals, or for the evening program. All volunteers will receive a Fourth of July T-shirt, as well as a free ticket to the evening entertainment and fireworks. As a non-profit, the Committee will also be offering community service hours to any students who volunteer. Anyone interested in volunteering should contact the Fourth of July Committee via Facebook or at www.ridgewoodjuly4th.com, or by attending a volunteer meeting on Wednesday, July 1st, at 7:30 P.M. at the firehouse. The Ridgewood Fourth of July Committee is an all-volunteer organization supported by private donations. Anyone who has difficulty connecting with the Fourth of July Committee can email Councilwoman Knudsen, and she said she would forward the email to the necessary people.
In addition, the Councilmembers and Village Manager are in need of convertibles for the parade. Ms. Mailander is currently researching the availability of convertibles, but if anyone is willing to donate his/her car and driving or chauffeur services, s/he should contact either Councilwoman Knudsen or Ms. Mailander via email. Their email addresses are available on the Village website. Councilwoman Knudsen noted that she has her own convertible.
Historic Preservation Commission – Councilwoman Knudsen mentioned that the Historic Preservation Commission will meet in the Garden Room tomorrow evening at 8:00 P.M. Currently, there are several applications before the Commission, including signage applications for various businesses in the CBD. The Commission will also review the historic component for the Master Plan re-examination.
Planning Board– Councilwoman Knudsen noted that the Planning Board will meet on Tuesday, June 16th, at 7:30 P.M. The agenda includes the continuation of the Master Plan re-examination. However, Councilwoman Knudsen pointed out that with respect to the Planning Board vote to the amendment to the Master Plan for the CBD high-density housing, many residents have asked whether this is the final step to be taken, and whether construction will begin immediately once the vote is taken. Councilwoman Knudsen explained that the Planning Board must first memorialize any vote taken by resolution. After that, barring any appeals, the Village Council will consider whether to adopt the amendment to the Master Plan by introducing zoning ordinances applied to each of the new zones, and adopting those ordinances by a majority vote. It is all a part of the process and is moving forward, but there is still a lot of work ahead.
Finally, Councilwoman Knudsen pointed out an article in the June 5th edition of the Bergen Record by Chris Harris, entitled “Ridgewood Council Considers Adding Garage Referendum”. After reading the article, Councilwoman Knudsen felt compelled to address it and correct it. The quote states that the Village Council is considering adding a non-binding referendum to the November ballot to gauge support for the parking garage in the CBD. It also states that the referendum was the “brainchild” of Mayor Aronsohn, who was quoted as saying that adding this issue to the General Election ballot will cost the Village nothing. The article also states that Councilman Pucciarelli, Councilwoman Hauck, and Councilman Sedon support Mayor Aronsohn’s idea to get feedback from voters, and that the idea was “not well received” by Councilwoman Knudsen. Councilwoman Knudsen commented that she wanted to correct that statement, because not only was the idea well-received by her, but she also suggested that the referendum go further and include the proposed assisted living facility at the North Walnut Street Redevelopment Zone. Councilwoman Knudsen believes that because it is a parcel of property owned by Village residents, it is incumbent upon the Councilmembers to engage the public by asking them to weigh in on such issues. When Councilwoman Knudsen read the article, she was not sure whether it was a misrepresentation or oversight, and she wanted to make it clear that she not only supports the non-binding referendum, but she believes it should go much further, by making it a binding referendum.
Ridgewood Arts Council– Councilman Pucciarelli mentioned that anyone who donates a convertible for use in the Fourth of July parade will get that convertible back, but anyone who donates art to the Ridgewood Arts Council will not. The Ridgewood Arts Council is looking for art donations, which will become the property of the Village and will be displayed. It is hoped that enough art can be acquired to rotate the pieces throughout Village buildings. Donated art can include photography, sculpture, paintings, or other media.
Bergen LEADS – Councilman Pucciarelli commented that he heard the end of the Teen LEADS presentation at Village Hall just prior to the Ridgewood Arts Council meeting that he attended last week. Yesterday, he attended the Adult Bergen LEADS meeting at Bergen Community College, and he found it fascinating. The topic was “Revitalizing Our Suburban Downtowns,” and 28 adults participated in the presentation. The presentation can be viewed on the Bergen LEADS website. The demographic information was fascinating. Councilman Pucciarelli learned that Bergen County is larger in population than nine states. The population declined in the 1960s and 1970s, when what is known as “white flight” occurred from the cities, which also caused emigration from the inner suburbs close to New York City to places like Sussex County and beyond. Most of those counties are now losing population, while Bergen County is again gaining in population. In addition, Bergen County’s current population is very different from that of the 1950s through the 1980s. Everyone who left did not return to Bergen County, and the millennials represent smaller numbers than before, because they usually want to live in the inner city. When looking at the demographics, the implications suggest that community activities must be responsive to any demographic changes. Councilman Pucciarelli stated that he is not advocating for any particular position, but he thinks the data is worth studying. It can be found on the Bergen LEADS website.
CBD Forum– Councilman Pucciarelli noted that the next CBD forum is scheduled for Wednesday, June 17th, at 7:30 P.M. As he mentioned in his previous CBD Forum report, a representative from Parkmobile will be present to demonstrate how to download and use the app, so anyone who has had any problems with the app might want to try to attend. Councilman Pucciarelli commented that he has used the app, and he finds it very easy to use, as well as convenient. In addition, Bob Rooney, Chief Financial Officer/Director of the Parking Utility; and Janet Fricke, Assistant to the Village Manager, will also be in attendance to discuss many changes that have occurred with parking in the Village. Ms. Fricke will also give an update about the progress of making Parkmobile available at all parking meters. There will also be a discussion about the proposed parking garage, and an open mic forum for people to discuss whatever is on their minds with respect to the CBD.
Councilwoman Hauck reminded everyone that tomorrow is the end of the year picnic for the Highlights in Leisure Time (HILT) group. She encouraged anyone over age 55 to join the group. It currently has 115 members, and they meet on the second Thursday of each month in the Senior Center in Village Hall. Their activities include entertainment presentations and discussions with coffee and snacks. Attendance at the end of the year picnic is expected to be approximately 75 people at Graydon Pool, and they plan to have a luau, including hula dancing.
Shade Tree Commission – Councilman Sedon commented that the Shade Tree Commission met last night. They accessed several lists of people who are hoping to replace trees in front of their homes after waiting for a number of years. The Commission sent out 215 letters to residents explaining the adopt-a-tree program, and the deadline is set for June 15, 2015, for anyone to respond with any interest in participating in the program. Once it is known how many people are interested, a bid proposal will be drafted to determine when the trees can be planted. The Commission members expect approximately 20 responses. The price has traditionally been between $300-$400 to plant one tree, and anyone who does not want to wait for the Village to plant the tree could certainly do it on his/her own. Councilman Sedon also stated that the Shade Tree Commission website is now available, and can be googled. More information and content will be added. Councilman Sedon thanked Dylan Hansen, Systems Administrator, for assisting with the development of the website, and all of the members of the Shade Tree Commission who helped add content to the website.
Ridgewood Green Team – Councilman Sedon stated that the Green Team has not met, but they plan to do so. They have submitted their application to Sustainable Jersey, and have documented 260 points worth of actions and submitted them to the State. Bronze level certification for any grants available through this program requires 150 points, while the silver level requires 350 points. There is a process that is followed between the first submission and the final determination in November, with information being exchanged, and there is ample time for that. The number of points Ridgewood currently has gives enough of a cushion to believe that at least 150 of the points will be accepted by Sustainable Jersey. That will open the Village to various grants on green and environmentally sound initiatives. Councilman Sedon thanked Janet Fricke for helping to organize a lot of this information over the years; Christopher Rutishauser, Village Engineer, who has been instrumental in helping and guiding the Green Team through the process, as well as getting information; Jiffy Vermylen, the Chairperson of the Ridgewood Green Team, who has helped to organize all of the information; and the rest of the Green Team for all of their assistance and efforts.
Planning Board– Mayor Aronsohn recalled that Councilwoman Sedon mentioned the multi-family housing issue, which will soon be coming to the Village Council for discussion and action. To facilitate that process and keep everyone aware of what is happening, the Planning Board has a website portal dedicated to all of the exhibits and information shared during the hearing process, as well as the video from the meeting last week. The transcripts will also be made available online.
Councilman Pucciarelli pointed out that when the issue comes back to the Village Council, it is not for the Councilmembers to reconsider the amendment to the Master Plan, because the Village Council does not have that authority. The Planning Board is responsible for the Master Plan. The amendments to the Master Plan are converted into zoning ordinance amendments for the Village Council’s consideration and approval.
8. ORDINANCES
a. Introduction – #3479 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Valet Loading and Unloading Zones – Chestnut Street and Prospect Street
Mayor Aronsohn moved the first reading of Ordinance 3479. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3479 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-29, “PARKING METER ZONES DESIGNATED,” AND AT SECTION 265-72, SCHEDULE XXII “LOADING ZONES”
Councilman Pucciarelli moved that Ordinance 3479 be adopted on first reading and that July 15, 2015, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
b. Introduction – #3480 – Bond Ordinance – Pre-Construction Funding for Hudson Street Parking Garage
Mayor Aronsohn moved the first reading of Ordinance 3480. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3480 by title:
BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING A SUPPLEMENTAL APPROPRIATION OF $500,000 FOR PRELIMINARY ENGINEERING, ENVIRONMENTAL, AND LAND SURVEYING SERVICES FOR THE PARKING UTILITY IN AND BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY, AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $500,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE FOR FINANCING THE APPROPRIATION
Councilwoman Knudsen moved that Ordinance 3480 be adopted on first reading and that July 15, 2015, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. She stated that she was making the motion, although there are still some questions to be answered, which hopefully will be resolved before taking the next step. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
c. Introduction – #3481 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Angle and Parallel Parking Regulations
Mayor Aronsohn moved the second reading of Ordinance 3481 and that the Public Hearing be opened. Councilwoman Hauck seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3481 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-25, “ANGLE PARKING”
Councilman Pucciarelli moved that Ordinance 3481 be adopted on first reading and that July 15, 2015, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilwoman Hauck seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
d. Introduction – #3482 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Taxi Stands and Bus Stops
Mayor Aronsohn moved the second reading of Ordinance 3482 and that the Public Hearing be opened. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3482 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-27 “TAXI STANDS,” AND SECTION 265-28, “BUS STOPS”
Councilman Sedon moved that Ordinance 3482 be adopted on first reading and that July 15, 2015, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
e. Introduction – #3483 – Amend Chapter 3 – Administration of Government
Mayor Aronsohn moved the second reading of Ordinance 3483 and that the Public Hearing be opened. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS:Councilman Sedon
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3483 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 3, ARTICLE V OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD ENTITLED “DEPARTMENTS”
Councilwoman Hauck moved that Ordinance 3483 be adopted on first reading and that July 15, 2015, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS:Councilmembers Knudsen and Sedon
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
f. Introduction – #3484 – Amend Various Salary Ordinances
Mayor Aronsohn moved the second reading of Ordinance 3484 and that the Public Hearing be opened. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS:Councilmembers Knudsen and Sedon
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3484 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND SALARY ORDINANCE 3397 FIXING THE SALARIES, WAGES, AND OTHER COMPENSATION FOR WHITE-COLLAR EMPLOYEES; AND TO AMEND SALARY ORDINANCE 3398 FIXING SALARIES, WAGES, AND OTHER COMPENSATION OF AND FOR THE BLUE-COLLAR EMPLOYEES; AND TO AMEND SALARY ORDINANCE 3437 FIXING SALARIES, WAGES, AND OTHER COMPENSATION OF AND FOR THE SUPERVISORY EMPLOYEES; AND TO AMEND SALARY ORDINANCE 3444, FIXING SALARIES, WAGES, AND OTHER COMPENSATION, AND TO ESTABLISH THE “EMPLOYEE AGREEMENT” OF CERTAIN NON-UNION EMPLOYEES OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, COUNTY OF BERGEN, AND STATE OF NEW JERSEY
Councilwoman Hauck moved that Ordinance 3484 be adopted on first reading and that July 15, 2015, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Pucciarelli, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS:Councilmembers Knudsen and Sedon
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
g. Public Hearing – #3478 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Corella Court – Stop Sign and Parking Restrictions
Mayor Aronsohn moved the second reading of Ordinance 3478 and that the Public Hearing be opened. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
The Village Clerk read Ordinance 3478 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-59, SCHEDULE IX “STOP INTERSECTIONS,” AND SECTION 265-65, “PARKING PROHIBITED AT ALL TIMES”
Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was open.
Sally Brandes, 515 Stevens Avenue, stated that her previous comments are true, and she does not want to change anything that she stated before. Ms. Brandes pointed out that she is one of the few people living on Stevens Avenue who can truly say that she is not protesting the proposed parking plan because she does not want people parking around her house. Ms. Brandes noted that she has ample parking all around her, because her garages are at the rear of her house, allowing her to pull out of her driveway in a forward motion, without needing to backup, as her neighbors do. She added that perhaps Mr. Bernold thinks there is a silent majority, but Ms. Brandes knows at least four people who wrote letters to Mr. Rutishauser opposing the proposed ordinance. There are only six homes on Corella Court. Moreover, Ms. Brandes and her husband previously stated that Corella Court is five feet wider than Stevens Avenue. The portion of Stevens Avenue that is closer to the school, where parking is allowed, is a newer section of Stevens Avenue, and is a bit wider than the rest of the street.
Ms. Brandes noted that the discussion started some years ago when one of the residents who lived on the corner of Stevens Avenue and Houston Lane complained to Mr. Rutishauser that she could not get out of her driveway when cars were parked there. A study was done, and the Village Engineer found that when there were leaves on Stevens Avenue, with a garbage truck coming through and cars parked on the other side of the street, it was impossible to open doors when traffic was present. A member of the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee who was trying to drive through that area under those conditions discovered the same thing.
Ms. Brandes reiterated that she is not asking for parking to be completely removed from Stevens Avenue, but she is asking that safe parking be provided for school staff and parents, as well as adequate parking for her neighbors along Stevens Avenue. Ms. Brandes believes that installing a stop sign and allowing parking only on one side of the street is “rewarding” school staff for not using the spaces provided at Hawes School. The proposed plan essentially designates spaces that can be used by school staff all day long. Ms. Brandes also believes that the only way to encourage school staff to use the new spaces at Hawes School is by prohibiting parking along Stevens Avenue during school arrival time, between 8:00 A.M.-9:00 A.M. That will give the parents safe places to park because they will be able to park on Corella Court, instead of parking their cars right up to the corners in that area as was shown in the pictures.
Councilman Pucciarelli asked how installing the stop sign on Corella Court “rewards” school staff by allowing them to park in that area. Ms. Brandes explained that the stop sign will be placed on Corella Court, on the same side of the street where parking is to be allowed. Corella Court is a very short street, and cars must park at least 50 feet from the stop sign. Parking will only be allowed approximately half way around the cul-de-sac. There are driveways on the cul-de-sac, which Ms. Brandes estimates might allow a maximum of seven cars to park there, but she believes a more realistic number is five. She noted that there always seems to be enough spaces for school staff to park on Corella Court, and they can still park their cars in the wider section of Stevens Avenue. Ms. Brandes does not know why school staff members do not park their cars on the wider section of Stevens Avenue.
Monroe Bernold, 500 Corella Court, wished to clarify his position. He noted that Corella Court is shaped like a key, with a narrow portion that opens up into a circle where there is parking. Mr. Bernold acknowledged that the majority of residents on Corella Court sent letters to Mr. Rutishauser, which Mr. Bernold saw, supporting all of this. According to Mr. Bernold, their only objection had to do with what was planned for Stevens Avenue. One of those four residents has now retracted his letter, and took it up with Ms. Sonenfeld, stating that he now supports this ordinance. As far as the stop sign is concerned, Mr. Bernold commented that the stop sign was installed because he is the only resident on Corella Court whose house is in the narrow part of the street, before the cul-de-sac at the end. His house is on the corner, and until now, there was a line painted 25 feet from the corner, in accordance with New Jersey Statute. However, because 25 feet from the corner is the middle of Mr. Bernold’s driveway, the line is painted six feet past his driveway. When the stop sign is installed, the only actual loss is three feet, due to the allowance for Mr. Bernold’s driveway. That will only eliminate one car from the number of cars that currently park there.
Due to the presence of the school, the parking situation Ms. Brandes was referring to in the afternoon occurs when the parents come and line up their cars to wait for their children. Mr. Bernold has lived there for 43 years, and he recalled that there used to be no cars in that area, because parents allowed their children to walk to school. Now, every morning for approximately 15 minutes, there is a traffic jam on Corella Court. The same thing occurs every afternoon at around 3:00 P.M. The traffic jam is so bad that when Mr. Bernold tried to come down Stevens Avenue at 3:15 P.M. and access his driveway, he could not do that, because people park in his driveway. Mr. Bernold never objected to this, because it only lasts for 15 minutes twice a day.
As far as Corella Court is concerned, Mr. Bernold noted that Mr. Siccardi does not really use Corella Court, although his house borders it. This is because Mr. Siccardi’s driveway is on Stevens Avenue. Mr. Bernold stated that he is the only one whose driveway is affected on a daily basis by the parking situation on Corella Court. If the cars are allowed to park across the street from him, that creates another problem, because he and his wife risk hitting one of those cars when pulling out of their driveway. Mr. Bernold stated emphatically that the stop sign has been installed for one reason only, and that is to prevent people from parking so close to his driveway, and to allow Mr. Bernold and his family to get their cars in and out of the driveway. Mr. Bernold estimates that the number of cars that can park on Corella Court is 7-8 cars, because the cul-de-sac is wide enough to accommodate that many. The Board of Education painted seven spots at the school, and the number of cars parking on Corella Court has decreased to 6-7 cars most of the time. Mr. Bernold commented that if the Village Council does not do something to prohibit parking on Corella Court, he will be put in the position of constantly calling the Police Department to have them to get all of those cars. Mr. Bernold concluded by stating that the only people objecting to this ordinance are a couple of residents on Stevens Avenue.
Mayor Aronsohn stated that the Councilmembers heard Mr. Bernold’s position, as well as Ms. Brandes’ position, and the Councilmembers were ready to move forward with this issue.
Frank Siccardi, 520 Stevens Avenue, pointed out that in one area in front of his house, people do park at the corner. He believes that painting a line just past his driveway would eliminate some of the parking on the corner. Mr. Siccardi said he requested this from Mr. Rutishauser via numerous telephone calls, but he has received no response. As far as Corella Court is concerned, Mr. Siccardi disagrees with a number of points raised by Mr. Bernold. Mr. Siccardi noted that his daughter comes to visit him, and she is afraid to park her car on Corella Court for fear of being harassed by Mr. Bernold, which has happened in the past. As a result, she parks in Mr. Siccardi’s driveway, and he parks his car on Corella Court, although he has been told not to do that by Mr. Bernold.
There were no other comments from the public, and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.
Councilwoman Knudsen stated that she heard a lot of information from the residents who spoke, and she requested that this matter be tabled if possible. She noted that letters were sent to Mr. Rutishauser, which she has never seen, and she does not know if anyone else has seen them. She asked if Councilman Sedon had anything to add from the perspective of the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee, especially given the fact that it seems to be their understanding that the Village Council would proceed with authorizing installation of a stop sign and the new parking spaces, and re-assessing the situation after that occurred.
Councilman Sedon explained that the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee recommended passing the ordinance, as well as painting the yellow lines on the curbs. Councilman Sedon acknowledged that Ms. Brandes had a very good recommendation when she suggested prohibiting parking from 8:00 A.M.-9:00 A.M., and Councilman Sedon thinks that might help to clear the street, and residents would be able to park in the open parking spaces, instead of the teachers. However, he thought that making that change might be too substantive to do so at this time, which Mayor Aronsohn confirmed.
Mayor Aronsohn believes that placing parking restrictions, as suggested by Ms. Brandes, is something that could be discussed going forward. He pointed out that there is a public safety issue in that area at this time, especially with respect to allowing vehicles to move along that road. Some of the key issues have been addressed, including getting the parking spaces at Hawes School. Mayor Aronsohn said he would like to move forward with the ordinance. It will require monitoring, and it can be amended in the future to get it right.
Councilman Pucciarelli commented that he would have preferred that everyone could support this solution, but it must move forward. He believes the stop sign is useful and helps to alleviate the safety issue. Councilman Pucciarelli acknowledged that this is an imperfect solution, and he supports it on the basis that the issue be revisited. Although many people are unhappy with the proposed solution, Councilman Pucciarelli believes that doing nothing would be worse. Councilman Sedon said he would be happy to put it on the agenda for the next Citizens Safety Advisory Committee meeting, so that they can discuss the possibility of restricting parking in the morning to allow parents to drop their children off for school. Mayor Aronsohn added that hopefully, more parking will become available at Hawes School.
Councilwoman Knudsen asked about the suggestion Ms. Brandes put forth regarding limiting parking to one hour in the morning, which seems more logical to Councilwoman Knudsen. Mayor Aronsohn pointed out that there is still the issue of creating a wide enough passageway for public safety vehicles and other service vehicles to go down that street, which the parking restriction would not solve.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilman Sedon moved that Ordinance 3478 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilwoman Knudsen seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
9. RESOLUTIONS
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 15-152 THROUGH 15-176, WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA, WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:
10. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Mayor Aronsohn stated that they would again have comments from the public and asked anyone wishing to address the Village Council to come forward.
Boyd Loving, 342 South Irving Street, had a message that he wanted to share. He recalled that Mayor Aronsohn stated that there was always a period at the Public Meetings to provide comments at the end, and what was added was a second option during Work Sessions only. Mr. Loving also recalled with respect to the extra two minutes that were added for public comments that a member of the public looked at the Village Code, which indicated that it should be five minutes, not three minutes per person. That information was brought to the attention of Ms. Mailander, and she made the adjustment.
Sally Brandes, 515 Stevens Avenue, urged the Councilmembers to paint the curbs yellow, or paint a line to indicate that people should not park so close to the stop sign. Although the law states that people are not to park within 25 feet of a stop sign, it is constantly abused, and has become a safety issue. She reiterated that the majority of people who are breaking the law are school staff members.
There were no more comments from the public, and Mayor Aronsohn closed the time for public comment.
11. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION
The following resolution, numbered 15-177, to go into Closed Session, was read in full by the Village Clerk, as follows:
12. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilwoman Hauck, seconded by Councilwoman Knudsen, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 9:35 P.M.
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Paul S. Aronsohn
Mayor
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Heather A. Mailander
Village Clerk
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