Village Council Public Meeting Minutes 20141112
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, NOVEMBER 12, 2014, 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 8:09 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 Roberta Sonenfeld, Village Manager; Heather Mailander, Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney.
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. In addition, Mayor Aronsohn asked for an extra moment of silence to honor Congresswoman Marge Roukema, who passed away this morning.
Mayor Aronsohn commented that it goes without saying that Congresswoman Roukema was one-of-a-kind, and those who knew her, as well as those who knew of her, would agree that she embodied the whole concept of public service better than most, if not better than all. Congresswoman Roukema gave meaning to the idea of working toward the public good, which was seen in the issues for which she advocated, including family medical leave, one of the many which were pro-family and very supportive of the Ridgewood community. Mayor Aronsohn recalled that when Congresswoman Roukema was in office, he was living in Washington, D.C., going to school and working. She was one of those members of Congress who are very rare, being both a leader as well as a representative. It is a fine line that has to be drawn, and that is knowing when to go out on a limb to advocate, like Congresswoman Roukema did on the issue of family medical leave, and when it is better to represent and embody the values of the community, and give voice to them. Congresswoman Roukema was unique among elected officials in her ability to do both with grace, style, energy, and courage. She will be missed by the people of Ridgewood, as well as throughout the United States.
Mayor Aronsohn read a note received from a resident, Gerie Mulhern, who met Congresswoman Roukema when she was five years old. Ms. Mulhern commented that the world knew Congresswoman Roukema as the longest-standing female Congresswoman, but she was someone else to her and others. For example, she taught Ms. Mulhern how to butter a cookie sheet, and she was a “real mom”. Ms. Mulhern stated that the entire neighborhood shared her grief when her son, Todd, lost his life to cancer before he graduated from Ridgewood High School, class of 1977. The amazing thing was that Congresswoman Roukema was able to pull strength from the tragedy and serve the community in a bigger way. Ms. Mulhern said her family was blessed to share that road with Congresswoman Roukema. Mayor Aronsohn continued by saying that the Councilmembers’ thoughts and prayers are with the family of Congresswoman Roukema, and her loss is a true loss for the community, as well as for the entire country.
2. ACCEPTANCE OF FINANCIAL REPORTS
Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Bills, Claims, and Vouchers, and Statement of Funds on hand as of October 31, 2014, be accepted as submitted. Councilman Sedon 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
Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Village Council minutes of September 17, October 1, and October 8, 2014, having been reviewed by the Village Council and now available in the Village Clerk’s Office, be approved as submitted. Councilwoman Hauck seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
4. PROCLAMATIONS
Councilman Pucciarelli read a proclamation declaring the month of November as Diabetes Awareness Month, and November 14, 2014, as National Diabetes Awareness Day. Councilwoman Hauck read a proclamation declaring the week of November 9-13, 2014, as Recognize Alzheimer’s Awareness Week. Councilwoman Knudsen read a proclamation declaring the week of November 23-29, 2014, as National Family Week.
5. SWEARING-IN OF FIREFIGHTER DAVID KELLY
Mayor Aronsohn administered the Oath of Office to Firefighter David Kelly, while his mother and brother, Brian Kelly who is also a Ridgewood Firefighter, held the Bible.
6. EAGLE SCOUT PRESENTATION
Mayor Aronsohn introduced Kenneth Crane-Moscowitz, who spoke to the Councilmembers about the Little Free Library. Mr. Crane-Moscowitz is a Boy Scout with Troop 7, in Ridgewood, New Jersey. For the past several months, he has been working on his Eagle Scout service project through the Ridgewood Public Library. The project consists of several different parts, which Mr. Crane-Moscowitz presented. The first part was when Mr. Crane-Moscowitz refinished eight teak benches for café chairs and the café table outside the Public Library. The second part was power washing the north wall of the patio to remove the mildew and other stains that had obstructed the stonework and brick. The next part was the painting the children’s chairs in the café area of the Public Library. The final part of the project, which is why Mr. Crane-Moscowitz came to the Village Council meeting, was to present the Little Free Library. The Little Free Library is a free community book swap, which will be sponsored through the Public Library. The Public Library approached Mr. Crane-Moscowitz with the idea of installing the Little Free Library, because Mr. Crane-Moscowitz wanted to do a literacy-driven project for his Eagle Scout mission. Therefore, Mr. Crane-Moscowitz asked the Councilmembers for their approval of the final location of the Little Free Library. He gave the Councilmembers a hand-drawn rendering of the approximate location that is being proposed for the Little Free Library, which is approximately 75 inches from the sidewalk on Maple Avenue, on the side adjacent to the sign in front of the Ridgewood Public Library. The structure will not be very large, as it is only about the size of a large birdhouse or mailbox. If the Councilmembers approve this plan, Mr. Crane-Moscowitz said he would be hiring a professional to dig the hole for the post for the Little Free Library box to ensure that there are no pipes or any other impediments in the ground. If pipes are found, the location would be moved a few feet in either direction.
Mayor Aronsohn thanked Mr. Crane-Moscowitz for the work he had already done, and complimented him on a great project. He asked Mr. Crane-Moscowitz about the timeframe for all of this to be completed. Mr. Crane-Moscowitz said the pieces to the library had already been delivered to his house, and he has materials necessary to create the post for the library. He was thinking about setting the installation date as the day after Thanksgiving.
Councilman Pucciarelli stated that he did not think that the Ridgewood Public Library could be improved, but Mr. Crane-Moscowitz had done just that, and he thanked Mr. Crane-Moscowitz for doing so.
Councilwoman Knudsen also congratulated Mr. Crane-Moscowitz for his efforts, and said that his work and presentation were beautiful. She also looks forward to the Little Free Library and its installation.
Councilman Sedon suggested that Mr. Crane-Moscowitz call PSE&G, who would come and do a free mark out to let him know what underground utilities may or may not be in that area. Ms. Sonenfeld added that she would have Peter Affuso, from the Engineering Department, assist Mr. Crane-Moscowitz.
Councilwoman Hauck asked if Mr. Crane-Moscowitz had considered satellite locations for the Little Free Library, in addition to outside the Public Library. Mr. Crane-Moscowitz replied that as far as his project is concerned, he was concentrating on the location at the Ridgewood Public Library. He does know that the Public Library staff is very interested in having more locations at other public places around Ridgewood, such as in the parks. Mr. Crane-Moscowitz said his energies are directed toward getting the first one established, and seeing how that progresses. Councilwoman Hauck asked if Mr. Crane-Moscowitz was looking for people to contribute to the cause. Mr. Crane-Moscowitz said yes, but at the start, he would use some of the library books that were donated over time to stock the Little Free Library. The idea is that, as the Little Free Library grows, the community will bring their books and leave them for someone else to take. It operates as a book swap. Mr. Crane-Moscowitz thanked the Village Council for authorizing the installation of the Little Free Library.
Before moving on, Mayor Aronsohn stated that he noticed that many people were at the meeting to share their comments about Clinton Avenue. Councilwoman Knudsen was not present at the meeting last week when it was discussed, and she asked if consideration of the resolution could be postponed. Councilman Sedon explained that because it is not time-sensitive, the paving of Clinton Avenue will be done next year. The Councilmembers felt that they needed to have some more input, and there has been some rotation on the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee (CSAC), so the Clinton Avenue discussion will be put on the agenda for the next CSAC meeting to try to gather more information and input in the interim.
Councilwoman Knudsen said she was not present at the meeting last week due to illness, but she had an opportunity to review the materials and thought it would be prudent to have more discussion on the matter and have the new members of the CSAC review it, as well.
7. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
Mayor Aronsohn asked if anyone from the public wished to speak regarding any of the agenda items.
Ann Agnello, 31 Clinton Avenue, said that she respects all the decisions made by the Village Council, and she thanked the Councilmembers for their service to the community. Ms. Agnello stated that she, as well as many other residents of her neighborhood, had attended many meetings this year and last year. Ms. Agnello has lived on Clinton Avenue for more than 30 years, and she and the other residents feel very strongly that safety is first, and there has never been an incident that involved compromising the safety of children or anyone walking to or from Ridge School on their street as it is currently configured. Ms. Agnello believes that the street provides a unique form of safety, which is perhaps due to the fact that it is an open street, as opposed to installing sidewalks, which would bring more traffic. That would put the children in harm’s way, because vehicles could impede visibility, so that drivers might not be able to see the children. Another possible hazard if a sidewalk is installed is that it would be installed on the opposite side from the utility poles, which means that the children would have to cross Clinton Avenue in order to get to Ridge School. The point Ms. Agnello was trying to make is that the residents are very concerned about safety, and some of them have children who are still attending that school. So far, there have never been any accidents involving children on that street. That is why the residents feel that safety is not an issue when it comes to sidewalks.
Next, Ms. Agnello stated that the residents believe that installing sidewalks would have a negative impact on the values of their properties, the way they enjoy their properties, and their way of life on Clinton Avenue. If sidewalks were installed, some of the residents would end up with almost no property in front of their homes due to the footage that is taken from the street and into the property lines. Ms. Agnello thinks that would be awful for the value of the street, as well is the way residents enjoy living on their street. She reiterated that it would also have a negative impact on their property values, which is important to them as property owners, and Ms. Agnello believes it goes to the heart of the United States Constitution. Furthermore, she firmly believes that it is their unique set up that has kept children safe when walking to and from school.
Ms. Agnello summarized by saying that the issues as far as the residents are concerned are safety and their constitutional rights as property owners. She commented that she trusts that the Councilmembers will consider all of those factors when making their decision.
There were no other comments from the public at this time, and Mayor Aronsohn closed the time for public comment.
8. MANAGER’S REPORT
Ms. Sonenfeld started her Manager’s report with an update on leaf removal in the Village. Email blasts have been sent to residents, and input has been received. Ms. Sonenfeld shared that there seems to be some confusion over the leaf pickup schedules, so email blasts will continue to be sent. She pointed out that it is very important for residents to check the most up-to-date leaf information available on the Village website. In addition, Ms. Sonenfeld noted that she is considering omitting the leaf pickup schedule from the 2015 Village calendar, because it is hard to predict a year ahead of time what the leaf situation might be. Therefore, rather than trying to guess when the heaviest leaf season might be, Ms. Sonenfeld believes it would be better to distribute letters, emails, flyers, or some other form of communication as the leaf season approaches to inform residents about pickup dates.
There has also been some positive feedback received about the leaf pickup program. One resident, who has lived in Ridgewood for more than 40 years, said that this was the cleanest season. Ms. Sonenfeld thinks the impact from employing the rakers has been tremendous. There was some tweaking to do with Downes Tree Service and the methods they were using to pick up believes in Area B, but that seems to be in the past.
Regarding the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Ms. Sonenfeld mentioned that the person in Senator Menendez’s office, recommended by Mayor Aronsohn, has put Ms. Sonenfeld in touch with people at FEMA and the Office of Emergency Management at the State and Federal levels. Ms. Sonenfeld is talking to them approximately every 2-3 weeks, and there are still a lot of outstanding funds that are expected from FEMA, going as far back as prior to Hurricane Irene. In the past couple of weeks, the Village has received $189,000 for the Halloween nor’easter several years ago. Moreover, Ms. Sonenfeld said that the Village is very close to receiving some other monies, which are expected tomorrow. Jovan Mehandzic of the Engineering Department has been the primary person from the Village involved in getting the funds.
Moving on to the Building Department, Ms. Sonenfeld stated that Tom Yotka, Director of the Building Department, has now been in office for approximately four weeks. He has significantly reduced the time required for doing inspections, from three weeks to approximately 3 days, as provided in the DCA guidelines. Mr. Yotka has stated that he has a goal of doing them within one day.
Next, Ms. Sonenfeld mentioned the recent newspaper article regarding the “unaccounted for” or “lost” water from the Water Utility. The State and the Board of Public Utilities have apparently allowed water companies to charge an extra fee for upgrading their aging, leaky water mains. United Water received $32 million in grants, and has invested that $32 million in decreasing the amount of “lost” water. “Lost” water is the amount of water that is collected and billed, but is “lost in the middle”. Unfortunately, the grant funds received by United Water from the State cannot be attained by municipalities, so the Village cannot apply for such grants. Ridgewood Water had approximately 15.9% in unaccounted-for water, or 394 million gallons. That compares favorably to United Water, which had 10.6 billion gallons unaccounted for, or 26%. In the past, Ridgewood Water had conducted leak surveys, but they stopped in 2010. Those will be reinstated over a three-year period of time, and every year one-third of the system will be done. The 2015 budget request for Ridgewood Water will include a request to reinstate the leak studies starting in 2015. They cost approximately $50,000 per year.
Councilwoman Knudsen asked if the value of the missing water is known, and if a value is assessed on the missing water. Ms. Sonenfeld responded that she does not know the answer to either of those questions, but she would get back to Councilwoman Knudsen about it.
Ms. Sonenfeld recalled that last week, there was a question about excess sewer discharge fees, and a report on those fees that did not include non-profit entities. The reason the report did not show non-profit entities is due to the definition of excess sewage discharge fees, which states that properties are being charged after using 110,000 gallons of water. Those are considered excess, and they are all commercial properties. Non-profit entities are not considered excess users, because they are charged from the first 1,000 gallons used. However, there is a separate report available that includes information about non-profit organizations and their sewer discharge fees.
Moving on to parking, Ms. Sonenfeld noted that the parking meters had been changed from two hours to three hours, which was completed in two days. Furthermore, the signs on the parking meters now indicate three hours, although the signs inside the parking meters indicate two hours. They will be changed over time. In addition, for the past several weeks, the Parking Enforcement Officers have been putting warnings on cars that have been observed as repeat parking vehicles, and the warnings let the drivers know that they will soon be receiving tickets. Starting tomorrow, repeat parking will be more strictly enforced. The same program has been implemented at the Ken Smith parking site. Warnings have been put on cars that do not have the correct hangtags, either for Whole Foods or for CBD employees. Those will soon be enforced, as well.
Ms. Sonenfeld mentioned that many Village employees will be at the New Jersey League of Municipalities Conference, and she looks forward to attending. There are many things she hopes to learn at the conference from an operations standpoint, including some technology on customer service and communications; grant opportunities; and Ms. Sonenfeld mentioned that Christopher Rutishauser, Village Engineer, and his team would be accepting an award from the American Public Works Association for the Graydon sloped entry ramp.
There will be an interfaith Thanksgiving service at Old Paramus Church on November 25th at 7:30 P.M. Village offices will be closed on November 27th and 28th.
Councilwoman Knudsen asked a question about repeat parking violations, as well as the hangtag parking violations. She asked if it would be possible for the Councilmembers to get a weekly report of the frequency of such violations, to better understand whether this is truly a pervasive problem and if these efforts are having a positive impact on the parking situation. Ms. Sonenfeld noted that a true indicator of the efficacy of the new program will be when CBD employees start buying more of the parking permits. Councilwoman Knudsen pointed out that this report would be for informational purposes only.
9. COUNCIL REPORTS
Fourth of July Committee– Councilwoman Knudsen thanked Councilman Sedon for attending the Fourth of July Committee meeting due to her illness. Monday, November 10th, was the very first time that the Fourth of July Committee had so many sponsors together in one place when it was not the Fourth of July. The Committee honored 25 longtime supporters for their on-going support and dedication to keeping the tradition alive in Ridgewood. Many of the sponsors attended the thank-you wine and cheese event sponsored by the Fourth of July Committee which was graciously hosted by Lee Gilsenan. Longtime sponsors were recognized with a star award as a token of appreciation representing the Committee’s gratitude for their generosity. Committee members enjoyed meeting the Fourth of July sponsors at this affair, as opposed to speaking with them on the phone. Councilwoman Knudsen again thanked the sponsors of the Fourth of July events; Lee Gilsenan for hosting the wine and cheese party; Tara Masterson for her work as the Co-Chairperson of the Fourth of July Committee; and Councilman Sedon for attending the meeting in her place.
Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) – Councilwoman Knudsen stated that the Historic Preservation Commission would meet tomorrow night.
Planning Board– Councilwoman Knudsen noted that, due to the New Jersey League of Municipalities conference, the Planning Board, which usually meets on Tuesday nights, would be meeting on Monday, November 17th, at the Ridgewood High School Campus Center, at 7:30 P.M. This meeting is a very important meeting, and Councilwoman Knudsen strongly urged all residents to come to Planning Board meetings, because so much information is disseminated at the meetings, and so much is discussed that will have an impact on the future of Ridgewood and have the potential to change the Village, especially the CBD. Information can come from many diverse sources about the meetings, but the best way to get accurate information is to attend in person.
At the November 3rd Planning Board meeting, Blais Brancheau, Village Planner, reviewed his report regarding the potential benefits and disadvantages of the proposed Master Plan amendments currently before the Planning Board. After that presentation, members of the public were allowed to ask questions of Mr. Brancheau. Each person is allowed to ask three questions, and Mr. Brancheau was very informative. Some residents asked what a fully built-out multi-unit zone could result in, and Mr. Brancheau responded that it could contain anywhere from 500-700 units. Other concerns involved fixing parking and other issues, and traffic congestion prior to considering this amendment. Councilwoman Knudsen reiterated that the only way for people to fully understand what is going on and get accurate information is to attend the meetings. She encouraged people to come on November 17th, when members of the public can continue to ask questions of Mr. Brancheau based on his report, and Councilwoman Knudsen believes that will take up the entire meeting.
Councilman Pucciarelli stated that he, along with all the other Councilmembers, had the privilege of attending the American Legion’s tribute to Ridgewood veterans on Veterans Day. The series of tributes and speeches were very moving. Councilman Pucciarelli is glad that those who serve can be honored for the contributions that they made.
Board of Education – Councilman Pucciarelli noted that the Ridgewood Board of Education has opened a new facility at Ridgewood High School. He read a report from Dr. Daniel Fishbein, Superintendent of Schools, who stated that it was a renovation and expansion of the interior of the media center into a learning center. A group of Ridgewood High School parents organized fundraising, along with the Ridgewood Educational Foundation, to assist in paying for the project. The media Center went from a 1960s-era facility to a 2014 facility. Construction started after graduation, and was completed for student use approximately 2 weeks ago.
Central Business District Forum – The fifth of the CBD forums is scheduled to be held on Wednesday, January 21, 2015, and it is tentatively scheduled to be held in the Sydney V. Stoldt, Jr., Courtroom. More details will follow. Some of the individuals who have helped Councilman Pucciarelli organize the first four CBD forums will make a presentation to the Village Council at the December 10, 2014, Public Meeting.
Community Center – Councilwoman Hauck reported that tomorrow, there will be an Alzheimer’s awareness meeting from 7:00 P.M.-9:00 P.M., in the Patrick Mancuso Senior Center. There has been a series of speakers, and this will be the last one scheduled. She invited everyone to attend.
Councilwoman Hauck also mentioned another project she is doing with the senior citizens of Ridgewood. It is a photo street journalism project. Councilwoman Hauck is trying to enlist the help of Ridgewood citizens who are amateur or professional photographers. The kickoff event will be Tuesday, November 18th, at 12:00 noon, in the Pat Mancuso Room. A camera company is donating cameras for anyone 65 or older who is interested in walking around Ridgewood for one month documenting where s/he goes, who s/he sees, and what s/he does. The idea is to capture a segment of the population that comprises 13% of Ridgewood residents. It is hoped that the project will highlight the fulfilling aspects of life in Ridgewood for those who are 65 and over. Councilwoman Hauck hopes that this project will engender some very poignant images that can be displayed at the Ridgewood Public Library in February. More information can be obtained from the Village Clerk’s office, or check the newspaper.
Ridgewood Environmental Advisory Committee (REAC) – Councilman Sedon mentioned that the Ridgewood Environmental Advisory Committee (REAC) met on November 6th. Earth Day is scheduled for May 2, 2015 in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square. The members of REAC also wanted to highlight Resolution #09-79, which was passed in 2009, and encourages the use of reusable bottles on sports fields to avoid trash cans overflowing with recyclables, bottles, and other similar types of garbage. They are encouraging those who use the fields, as well as spectators, to bring a refillable bottle for their beverages. Future planning includes potentially installing filling stations at some of the fields so that bottles can be refilled on-site.
Shade Tree Commission – The following day, Councilman Sedon attended a PSE&G conference regarding “right tree, right place, right way”. One of the interesting things Councilman Sedon learned from his attendance at this conference was that, when traveling down the streets of Ridgewood, one can often see trees planted near telephone poles. When those trees were planted, it was thought that the telephone poles could be camouflaged when the trees grew, but no one gave any thought to the fact that when the trees grew, they might interfere with the wires. That is why the tree-wire conflicts now exist in Ridgewood. That is just one of the things that was discussed at the conference. PSE&G also stated that in their 110-year history, the two worst storm events encountered were in the past several years, which were Hurricane Irene and Hurricane Sandy. That is why they are now focusing on how to live with trees, as well as how to help communities manage their trees.
Landscaping Committee – Councilman Sedon stated that the Landscaping Committee had its final meeting for this year. They will be presenting a budget for a one-time cleaning and mulching of the 215 tree wells in the CBD, and a plan for tree well maintenance going forward. There was also some discussion about lighting the trees at Memorial Park at Van Neste Square, but the details of that have not yet been fully decided. There will be some signs placed at Memorial Park at Van Neste Square to let people know that it will be open until midnight and will reopen at dawn, as well as a sign near the monuments to ask people to respect the monuments.
Mayor Aronsohn wanted to recognize some residents who were at this meeting, Nancy Kennedy and Joan Touro, who came to him several weeks ago about promoting diabetes awareness. The proclamation read earlier this evening grew out of that evening. There are also some ribbons on trees at Memorial Park at Van Neste Square to promote awareness of diabetes. It is a very serious disease, affecting many people in Ridgewood and all over the world. Although this was the first year that recognition was given to this disease, Mayor Aronsohn does not think it will be the last time. He thanked Ms. Kennedy and Ms. Touro for bringing it to his attention.
Next, Mayor Aronsohn recognized former Deputy Mayor Betty Wiest, who has been spearheading the Soles for Souls effort to collect shoes for those who need them. Mayor Aronsohn noted that the response has been tremendous, and he was present when more than 12,000 pairs of shoes were loaded on a truck last week. That is a testament to the work of Ms. Wiest and the Rotary Club, as well as the residents who have donated shoes. Mayor Aronsohn suggested that it could be an annual event.
Finally, Mayor Aronsohn mentioned the Interfaith Thanksgiving service which Ms. Sonenfeld discussed earlier. He said it is one of the most wonderful and enriching experiences, and he encouraged everyone to attend on Tuesday, November 25th, at 7:30 P.M., at Old Paramus Church.
10. ORDINANCES
a. Introduction – #3442 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Installation of Stop Signs – Belmont Road and Hamilton Road
Mayor Aronsohn moved the first reading of Ordinance 3442. 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 3442 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-59, SCHEDULE IX “STOP INTERSECTIONS”
Councilwoman Knudsen moved that Ordinance 3442 be adopted on first reading and that December 10, 2014, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
b. Introduction – #3443 – Bond Ordinance – Work at Hudson Street Lot
Mayor Aronsohn moved the first reading of Ordinance 3443. 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 3443 by title:
BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING 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, APPROPRIATING $100,000 THEREFOR, AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $95,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE THE COST THEREOF
Councilman Pucciarelli moved that Ordinance 3443 be adopted on first reading and that December 10, 2014, 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
c. Introduction – #3444 – Management Salary Ordinance
Mayor Aronsohn moved the first reading of Ordinance 3444. Councilman 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 3444 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO FIX SALARIES, WAGES, AND OTHER COMPENSATION AND TO ESTABLISH THE “EMPLOYEE AGREEMENT” OF CERTAIN NON-UNION OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, COUNTY OF BERGEN, AND STATE OF NEW JERSEY FOR THE YEAR 2014
Councilman Pucciarelli moved that Ordinance 3444 be adopted on first reading and that December 10, 2014, 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 – #3445 – Non-Union Salary Ordinance
Mayor Aronsohn moved the first reading of Ordinance 3445. 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 3445 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO FIX SALARIES, WAGES, AND OTHER COMPENSATION OF NON-UNION EMPLOYEES OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, COUNTY OF BERGEN, AND STATE OF NEW JERSEY FOR 2014
Councilman Pucciarelli moved that Ordinance 3445 be adopted on first reading and that December 10, 2014, 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
e. Introduction – #3446 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Establish Ridgewood Parking Permits
Mayor Aronsohn moved the first reading of Ordinance 3446. 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 3446 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE TITLE AND CONTENT OF CHAPTER 265, SECTION 33C OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD ENTITLED “UNLIMITED PREPAID PARKING,” AND RENAME IT AS “RIDGEWOOD PARKING PERMITS”
Councilman Sedon moved that Ordinance 3446 be adopted on first reading and that December 10, 2014, 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
f. Introduction – #3447 – Amend Chapter 145-6 – Fees – Ridgewood Parking Permits
Mayor Aronsohn moved the first reading of Ordinance 3447. 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 3447 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 145-6 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD ENTITLED “ENUMERATION OF FEES RELATING TO CODE CHAPTERS”
Councilwoman Knudsen moved that Ordinance 3447 be adopted on first reading and that December 10, 2014, 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
g. Introduction – #3448 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Central Business District Employee Parking – Cottage Place and Franklin Avenue (Ken Smith) Parking Lot
Mayor Aronsohn moved the first reading of Ordinance 3448. 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 3448 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265, ARTICLE X, SECTION 80(A), (B), AND (F) OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, ENTITLED “CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT EMPLOYEE PARKING”
Councilwoman Knudsen moved that Ordinance 3448 be adopted on first reading and that December 10, 2014, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
h. Introduction – #3449 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Change Parking Meters to Three Hours
Mayor Aronsohn moved the first reading of Ordinance 3449. Councilman Pucciarelli 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 3449 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”
Councilwoman Knudsen moved that Ordinance 3449 be adopted on first reading and that December 10, 2014, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
i. Introduction – #3450 – Establish Fees for Parking Meters
Mayor Aronsohn moved the first reading of Ordinance 3450. 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 3450 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 145-6 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD ENTITLED “ENUMERATION OF FEES RELATING TO CODE CHAPTERS” AS IT PERTAINS TO CHAPTER 265-29 ENTITLED “PARKING METER ZONES DESIGNATED”
Councilman Sedon moved that Ordinance 3450 be adopted on first reading and that December 10, 2014, 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
j. Public Hearing – #3440 – Require Pest Control during Demolition of Structures
Mayor Aronsohn moved the second reading of Ordinance 3440 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 3440 by title:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 223 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, FEES, AT SECTION 223-57, “INSECT AND RAT CONTROL”
Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilwoman Knudsen moved that Ordinance 3440 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Sedon seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
k. Public Hearing – #3441 – Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Installation of Stop Signs – Kensington Drive and Sterling Place
Mayor Aronsohn moved the second reading of Ordinance 3441 and that the Public Hearing be opened. Councilman Pucciarelli 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 3441 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”
Mayor Aronsohn announced that the Public Hearing was open. There were no comments from the public, and Mayor Aronsohn moved that the Public Hearing be closed. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Councilwoman Knudsen moved that Ordinance 3441 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilman Pucciarelli seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
AYES: Councilmembers Hauck, Knudsen, Pucciarelli, Sedon, and Mayor Aronsohn
NAYS:None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
11. RESOLUTIONS
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 14-269 THROUGH 14-293, WITH THE EXCEPTIONS OF 14-272 AND 14-273 AND 14-291, WHICH WERE ALL REMOVED FROM THE AGENDA, WERE ADOPTED BY A CONSENT AGENDA, WITH ONE VOTE BY THE VILLAGE COUNCIL, AND WERE READ BY TITLE ONLY:
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS, NUMBERED 14-294 AND 14-295, WERE CONSIDERED SEPARATELY AND READ IN FULL:
Mayor Aronsohn noted that the reason Resolution #14-294 was off of the consent agenda is due to the fact that his wife works at West Bergen Mental Healthcare. Therefore, Mayor Aronsohn recused himself from the vote on this resolution.
12. 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.
Anne Loving, 342 South Irving Street, asked for clarification regarding the issue of changing the parking meters to three hours. She wanted to know if all of the signs have been changed on the parking meters. Ms. Sonenfeld responded that all of the parking meters on the streets have been re-calibrated to three hours. The external signs have been changed, but there are signs inside the meters which have not yet been changed. Ms. Loving could not understand how the signs could have been changed when the ordinances not even passed yet. Ms. Sonenfeld explained that the ordinance voted on tonight was to change the 12-hour parking meters to three-hour parking meters, and what Ms. Loving was referring to were the two-hour parking meters that were changed to three-hour parking meters. Ordinance 3449 refers to changing the 12-hour parking meters in the parking lots to three-hour parking meters. Ms. Sonenfeld stated that the ordinance she was discussing was passed a while ago which changed the street parking meters from two-hour parking meters to three-hour parking meters.
Paul Genova, 30 Clinton Avenue, said he has lived there for 27 years, and his children went through the Ridgewood school system. Mr. Genova stated that although it might not be intuitive, he believes putting sidewalks on Clinton Avenue would cause more harm and create a safety hazard compared to leaving the street without sidewalks. He reminded the Councilmembers that Clinton Avenue is closed during school hours, because it is a street used by the children to pass through to Ridge School. Apparently, it has been that way for more than 50 years. Residents and people who walk that street are aware of the situation, and are very safety conscious. Mr. Genova noted that Clinton Avenue is not a very wide street. In fact, South Murray Avenue runs parallel to Clinton Avenue, and was paved last year without sidewalks. It is a bit narrower than Clinton Avenue, but is otherwise very similar. Mr. Genova believes that if sidewalks were installed on Clinton Avenue, cars started coming through there, and parking is allowed for Ridge School, he does not think the street is wide enough to handle that traffic. When the street is open, it is a through street, and cars pass through very quickly. Mr. Genova thinks it might be necessary to put speed bumps on the street. However, he is concerned that children walking on the sidewalk would not be seen by drivers in the cars. There is a lot of activity on the street, with parents dropping their children off for school; parking their cars; entering and exiting parking spaces; and trying to get from the school to Godwin Avenue, or vice versa. Mr. Genova is worried that the children will get lost in that confusion. He also thinks it would be necessary to hire another crossing guard for the children to cross West Ridgewood Avenue. Although he understands that there is a parking problem in Ridgewood, and he believes it has something to do with the pressure to open up Clinton Avenue, Mr. Genova noted that Ridge School has a lot of property in the front and in the back, and it seems silly to destroy homeowners’ property to create more parking on Clinton Avenue, when it would be possible to create an additional parking lot at Ridge School.
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 14-296, 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 Councilman Sedon, seconded by Councilman Pucciarelli, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 9:25 P.M.
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Paul S. Aronsohn
Mayor
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Heather A. Mailander
Village Clerk
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