Village Council Meeting

A REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY, ON MARCH 13, 2024, AT 7:30 P.M. 1. CALL TO ORDER – OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS ACT – ROLL CALL – FLAG SALUTE Mayor Vagianos called the meeting to order at 7:30 P.M. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. At roll call, the following were present: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Weitz, Winograd, and Mayor Vagianos. Also present were Keith Kazmark, Village Manager; Heather Mailander, Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney. Mayor Vagianos led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag. 2. ACCEPTANCE OF FINANCIAL REPORTS AND APPROVAL OF MINUTES Mayor Vagianos moved that the Bills, Claims, and Vouchers, and Statement of Funds on Hand as of February 29, 2024, be accepted as submitted. Councilmember Weitz seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Weitz, Winograd, and Mayor Vagianos NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None 3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES None 4. PROCLAMATIONS A. WORLD DOWN SYNDROME DAY- MARCH 21, 2024 Councilmember Winograd read the following proclamation: 1 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 13, 2024 B. WORLD AUTISM AWARENESS DAY – APRIL 2, 2024 Councilmember Winograd read the following proclamation: 2 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 13, 2024 C. RECOGNIZE AND HONOR RABBI DAVID FINE AND IMAM MAHMOUD HAMZA Mayor Paul Vagianos read the following proclamation: Mayor Vagianos acknowledged Rabbi David Fine and Imam Mahmoud Hamza for setting an example of partnership and working together during these challenging times. He stated these gentlemen have been friends for 15 years and are warriors for peace. Mayor Vagianos further stated their joint bravery and courage have had a deep effect on him and invited everyone to attend the upcoming vigil for peace on Sunday, March 24th at the Emanuel Baptist Church, at 5:00 PM. 3 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 13, 2024 D. AMERICAN RED CROSS MONTH- MARCH 2024 Deputy Mayor Perron read the following proclamation: 4 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 13, 2024 E. COLORECTAL CANCER AWARENESS MONTH Councilmember Reynolds read the following proclamation: 5 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 13, 2024 F. NATIONAL POISON PREVENTION WEEK- MARCH 17-23, 2024 Councilmember Weitz read the following proclamation: 6 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 13, 2024 5. SWEARING -IN POLICE SERGEANT- RAYMOND TARINO Mayor Vagianos administered the Oath of Office to Police Sergeant Raymond Tarino of the Ridgewood Police Department. Sgt. Tarino’s children held the bible with his wife and family present. 6. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC Jeanne Johnson, 325 Mastin Place, expressed her thanks and appreciation to Rabbi David Fine and Imam Mahmoud Hamza as both are very valued members of our community and serve as a source of inspiration. Ms. Johnson expressed appreciation to the Village Council for identifying funds for the restoration and enhancement of the train station pedestrian tunnel. She provided an update, since her presentation last March. The scope of the entire project will be outlined by an historical architectural firm, hired to assess the needs of the tunnel. She reported the original team of organizers is proposing a complete renovation, which will include structural enhancements new lighting, security cameras, and a decorative mosaic to be placed in the tunnel’s five entryways. She stated the main tunnel will be cleaned up and a painted mural, under the train trestle near Garber Square, will be installed. This major project will improve safety lighting and overall aesthetics, while also significantly increasing foot traffic in the area. She stated that various stakeholders will work in partnership for fundraising for this project. She noted that the committee is also seeking community members to share their design and artistic expertise. Notices about this project will be sent out via the Village website and social media platforms in the coming weeks. Mayor Vagianos thanked Ms. Johnson for her dedication to the project and hard work. There were no further public comments. 7. VILLAGE MANAGER’S REPORT Mr. Kazmark congratulated Sergeant Tarino on his promotion this evening and stated he has had the opportunity to work with Sergeant Tarino during the last few months, and he is very deserving of the promotion. Mr. Kazmark thanked the Parks Division and the Streets Division for their efforts in the storm cleanup from recent inclement weather. Mr. Kazmark also recognized the Signal Division for their assistance in re-striping the Village Fleet. Mr. Kazmark noted that on the agenda this evening is the authorization to apply to the New Jersey Historic Trust fund for the pedestrian tunnel project. In addition, other grant applications include the 2024 Municipal Alliance Grant, the annual recycling tonnage grant, and a grant application to the Department of Community Affairs for the restoration of Habernickel playground, which will be ADA-inclusive. 7 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 13, 2024 Mr. Kazmark reported that Maple Field will be reopened for play by the end of this week, and Veterans Field will be opened by the end of next week, contingent upon weather conditions. Mr. Kazmark provided announcements for upcoming Health Department programs including a Mediterranean Diet Workshop on Tuesday, March 19th from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the Ridgewood Library Auditorium. He stated Village Hall will be closed on Friday, March 29th in observance of Good Friday and there will be no garbage or recycling pickup on that day. He stated the Recycling Center will also be closed. Mr. Kazmark stated the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce is presenting Easter in the Park at Memorial Park at Van Neste Square on Saturday, March 30th from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Mr. Kazmark noted that the online registration for Graydon Pool and Tennis/Pickleball badges begins on April 1st through Community Pass. Mr. Kazmark announced the Graydon Pool Summer Camp is offered again to the children of Ridgewood entering grades one through six. He explained that the six-week program will be held from Monday, June 24th through Friday, August 2nd weekdays only from 9:00 AM to 1:30 PM and registration begins April 1st at 8:30 AM on Community Pass. Mr. Kazmark announced the Village Shred Day event that will take place on Saturday, April 6th from 8:00 AM to 12:00 noon or until the truck is full. The event will take place at the Graydon Pool parking lot. Residents are limited to five boxes or paper bags per vehicle, and it is a drive- through event. Mr. Kazmark announced upcoming Village Council meetings. March 27, 2024, April 3, 2024, and April 24, 2024, are Work Sessions and April 10, 2024, is the Regular Public Meeting 8. VILLAGE COUNCIL REPORTS Councilmember Winograd expressed appreciation to the Village Council, the Village Clerk, the Village Manager, and the Village Attorney for their assistance in supporting the Ridgewood Access Committee. Councilmember Winograd reported on the lengthy Shade Tree Commission meeting held last night. Topics included Big Tree applications and the “Adopt- a Sapling” program in the Somerville section. She further commented that the downtown area looks great and encourages everyone to patronize the stores and restaurants. Councilmember Weitz stated he was pleased with the positive proclamations given this evening and congratulated Sergeant Tarino. He stated it is such a rewarding part of serving as a Councilmember to take part in a Swearing-In ceremony to support the Police and Fire members. Councilmember Weitz reported he enjoyed attending the Ridgewood Guild’s Oscar party on Friday night and wanted to congratulate them on a wonderful event. 8 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 13, 2024 Councilmember Weitz reported that he attended the Fourth of July Committee planning meeting. He announced the 2024 theme is United We Play. He further commented that the parade is completely funded through private donations. He encouraged residents to volunteer, donate, or otherwise get involved in this wonderful tradition. Councilmember Weitz congratulated Rabbi Fine and Imam Hamza. He stated they are a great example of how to treat people with respect and kindness. He wished all those in the Muslim Community a wonderful season of Ramadan and looked forward to attending the upcoming Iftar dinner. Councilmember Reynolds congratulated Sergeant Tarino, acknowledged his responsiveness, and noted that the promotion was well deserved. Councilmember Reynolds stated she attended the Kasschau Shell Committee and announced the new schedule. She explained that the Kasschau Shell Committee is accepting donations, and encourages people to support the committee. Councilmember Reynolds announced the next Citizens Safety Advisory Committee meeting is s March 21st at 7:30 p.m. in the Garden Room, and the Project Pride Committee is gearing up for the Spring planting. Deputy Mayor Perron congratulated Sergeant Tarino and acknowledged her opportunities to work with him recently. She stated he is a problem solver and an asset to the community. Deputy Mayor Perron reported that Green Ridgewood met last week to prepare for the Daffodil Festival and Earth Day Fair to be held on April 21st at 11:00 a.m. n Memorial Park at Van Neste Square. Event details include Goat Yoga; a performance of the Blue-Plate Special Band and a Daffy Dog Parade. There will also be a Student Art Contest whereby students can submit their artwork to the library, and it will be displayed on that day. Deputy Mayor Perron stated she recently attended a session discussing affordable housing changes and OPRA reform. She announced the Special Improvement District Steering Committee continues to meet every other week. A mission statement was drafted at the last meeting and at the next meeting, the committee will address the boundaries of a Special Improvement District. Deputy Mayor Perron announced the Central Business District Advisory Committee will meet tomorrow at 8:30 a.m. in the Senior Lounge. Mayor Vagianos stated the items on the agenda this evening reflect the positive impact of serving in a public office. Positive recognition of worthy causes and individuals through proclamations, Sergeant Tarino’s promotion, and the introduction of a sound financial plan for the Village are tangible outcomes and are rewarding. He thanked each Councilmember for their hard work and their focused attention to their assigned roles. 9 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 13, 2024 9. 2024 BUDGET INTRODUCTION A. BUDGET MESSAGE Mr. Kazmark thanked Department Directors, Supervisors, and Management employees for embarking on the creation of the 2024 budget back in September of 2023. He thanked Bob Rooney, Chief Financial Officer for starting the process after Labor Day, and Heather Mailander for being the historical resource and sounding board during this cycle. He stated the introduction of the budget is the culmination of five intensive budget hearings before the Village Council where all of the staff were asked challenging questions. Mr. Kazmark stated that the core of this process and the purpose of the lengthy timeframe is to ensure the most appropriate spending plan is created, that highlights the taxpayer as the priority. Mr. Kazmark highlighted accomplishments in 2023. These include the reaffirmation of the AAA Bond rating by Standard and Poor’s; maintaining a tax collection rate of 99.8%; restoring hybrid access for public participation at Village Council meetings; restructuring the Village Manager’s office to create the position of Director of Communications & Special Projects, with a focus on communication; creating and launching a new Village Website; and designing a new logo and branding for the Village. Mr. Kazmark commented on other highlights, including submitting the application to the NJ State Historic Preservation Office for the Schedler Park development project; establishing Juneteenth as a Village Holiday; adopting an anti-nepotism ordinance and an alternate route hiring process for Police Officers, upon the recommendation of Chief Forest Lyons; obtaining recertification as a Bronze level member of Sustainable New Jersey; revising the employee evaluation process; and maintaining funding through two Health Department grants, totaling $550,000, which provide funding for a social worker and outreach coordinators. Mr. Kazmark continued with the 2023 accomplishments stating the Village implemented a program to comply with New Jersey's new lead paint law and entered a Shared Service Contract with the Township of Mahwah for a Health Officer, as well as resurfacing more than 32 miles of roads in 2023, and added “bump outs” at West Glen Avenue and Heights Road. Mr. Kazmark remarked that necessary structural repairs were made to the third-floor ceiling at Village Hall and new sanitation and recycling trucks were delivered. He stated over 20 new trees in residential neighborhoods and 37 new trees in the Central Business District. He stated the Village also launched the Adopt-a-Sapling program and the Parks and Recreation Department was the winner of the “Daniel M. Gasalberti Recreation Program Award” for the Annual Giving Thanks Ridgewood Elder Dinner. Mr. Kazmark highlighted accomplishments that include razing the barn at Habernickel Park; supporting the Veterans Banner program in the Central Business District; and approving the design of the Gold Star Family Memorial. He added that dining corrals, live music events and 10 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 13, 2024 Culturally-themed weekends promoted “Destination Ridgewood” and the kissing balls décor returned to the Central Business District, during the holiday season. Mr. Kazmark stated that because of three major flooding events from September through January, the Village focused on the area of flood mitigation. The Village has engaged the assistance of the United States Army Corp of Engineers to begin a study to make regional recommendations for flood mitigation in Ridgewood both along the Ho-Ho-Kus Brook and the Saddle River. He stated a residential flood portal for residents was launched on the new Village website to gather data to forward to the United States Army Corps of Engineers and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection. Mr. Kazmark stated the Village is actively removing downed trees and debris from waterways and he toured various impacted properties to meet with homeowners. Mr. Kazmark outlined 2024 goals and objectives that include: seeking alternate sources of revenue raised to reduce the burden on taxpayers that includes grants, Shared Services Agreements, and other revenue-generating opportunities. He stated the Village is aggressively pursuing Federal and State appropriations to offset the cost of the Ridgewood Water PFAS treatment projects. Mr. Kazmark explained that the Village is seeking to obtain grant funds for major and operational projects and initiatives, such as road resurfacing, the train station pedestrian tunnel project, the Habernickel playground, Veterans Field lighting, tree plantings, and wastewater improvements. He said the Kingsbridge Lane Pedestrian Bridge will also undergo repairs. Sidewalks will be added to West Glen Avenue, East Glen Avenue, and Clinton Avenue. He stated the Village will continue to work with the owner of the Warner Theater to ensure a similar use, which benefits Village residents, as well as generating concept plans for the restoration of the train station pedestrian tunnel. Mr. Kazmark outlined additional goals with metrics, which include providing CPR training for Village employees; launching the use of the Master Library software program by Parks and Recreation; renovating the bus station in the Central Business District; and building a shelter and restroom facility at Habernickel Park. Mr. Kazmark continued outlining additional goals including re-establishing the sanitation and recycling vehicle fleet to full capacity and achieving State accreditation of the Ridgewood Police Department through the New Jersey Police Chief's accreditation program. Mr. Kazmark outlined budget highlights in the 2024 Current Fund. This includes filling four vacant new police officer positions and appointing two new firefighters. He stated this budget includes two sanitation truck leases, the consolidated EMS services to OEM and the Fire Department, and engaging a grant writer to pursue funding across departments. Mr. Kazmark noted that during the past 2023 tax year, the Village gained $17 million in new rateables, through assessments. 11 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 13, 2024 Robert Rooney, Chief Financial Officer, presented the 2024 budget impacts. These include the sanitation vehicle lease which required an increase of $165,000; the implementation of the time and attendance system is $25,000; the Village appropriated $50,000 for grant writing services; new part-time employee salaries are $65,000; Police Officer vacant positions is $140,000; police vehicle leasing is $20,000; and Police licensing and accreditation is $55,000. Mr. Rooney outlined the contractual obligations with the various unions that include salary increases Police ($154,000), Fire ($135,000), Blue Collar ($103,000), White Collar ($48,000) and Supervisor ($17,000); Debt Service increase ($1,609,929); Health Insurance increase ($668,896); Pension Cost increase ($279,247) and Social Security cost increase ($151,000). Mr. Rooney summarized the 2024 Current Fund Budget as the total current appropriations ($61,231,433); Reserve for Uncollected Taxes ($1,230,000); Debt Service ($7,651,719); Salaries ($25,067,184); and Budget Revenue ($18,783,707). The amount to be raised by taxation is $39,658,266. Mr. Rooney summarized the current fund surplus balance and explained the financial trend. He explained it is moving up gradually every year, which helps to stabilize the tax increases. Mr. Kazmark highlighted that in the last 10 years, the surplus has increased from $4.8 million to $7.8 million, which is significant. Councilmember Weitz stated that the granularity of the surplus increase may be a challenging concept; however, it is a critical component for the Village to have a cushion that can be used year over year, to offset a high tax increase. Mr. Kazmark provided accomplishments of the Ridgewood Water Utility. He stated Ridgewood Water completed the rehabilitation or replacement of 2.3 miles or approximately 12,000 linear feet of distribution water mains. In addition, all four service area towns successfully adopted a two-day watering conservation ordinance. Ridgewood Water’s laboratory was outfitted with HVAC upgrades, an acid storage cabinet, a VOC fume hood, and equipment table and there is a GC/MS on order awaiting delivery and installation. Mr. Kazmark outlined 2024 goals for Ridgewood Water include the utility completing the rehabilitation or replacement of 1.5 miles or approximately 7,900 linear feet of distribution water mains; launching the emergency/routine construction map and construction activity page; completing lab certification for GC/MS; and increasing the water conservation campaign and outreach. Mr. Kazmark outlined the PFAS treatment and operations. He outlined accomplishments that include successfully executing an Administrative Consent Order with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection in May of 2023, for the PFAS Treatment Master Plan, which received permanent permit approval for Twinney PFAS Treatment Facility and breaking ground on two additional PFAS Treatment Facilities, Ravine and Prospect. 12 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 13, 2024 Mr. Kazmark outlined 2024 goals that include: complete construction of the Ravine PFAS Treatment Facility, breaking ground on the remaining PFAS Treatment Facilities and breaking ground on the Raw Water Mains to connect satellite wells to the PFAS Treatment facilities. Mr. Kazmark summarized accomplishments of the lead service line replacements including replacing 152 main to curb lead service lines as of November 1, 2023; achieving substantial agreement from the representatives of all four towns on the plan to complete the lead service line identification and replacement program; and interviewing and contracting with the Lead Service Line Replacement Program Planning Consultant. Mr. Kazmark outlined 2024 goals including completing another 150 main to-curb service replacements; identifying remaining unknowns through Hydro Excavation, in-home inspections or customer surveys; achieving final approval on ordinances and Shared Services Agreements with all four towns; and completing the design of a comprehensive Lead Service Line Replacement plan; and a new website landing page. Mr. Rooney summarized the Water Utility Budget. He stated current appropriations ($23,375,178); Debt Service ($4,623,315); Salaries ($4,866,011); Budget Revenue ($19,220,314) and Surplus used ($4,154,864). Mr. Rooney summarized the Parking Utility for 2024, as follows: Current Appropriations ($2,744,000); Debt Service ($780,544); Salaries ($648,620) Budget Revenue ($2,344,000) and Surplus used ($400,000). Mr. Kazmark outlined recommendations for future planning. These include enhancing the ambulance service billing through the new vendor; increasing revenue for outside Police Department Services to be more competitive with other enforcement agencies; developing new Shared Service opportunities with surrounding communities, to increase revenue; developing a plan to enhance communications with surrounding municipalities through an improved radio communication system; beginning to budget for certain large capital budget expenditures; and further pursuing sinking funds in the Capital Budget, for more costly investments and equipment. purchases. Mr. Rooney reviewed the local Municipal tax rate. He explained that the 2024 budget is approximately $1.2 million under the tax levy cap and $798,404 under the appropriation cap. Mr. Kazmark emphasized that the Village could go higher within this budget, but in deference to the taxpayer, the Administration chose to scale back, through the efforts of the Department Directors. Mr. Kazmark stated the Municipal tax increase of 2.74%, which is less than the rate of inflation today. It was highlighted there were no cuts in service to the residents of Ridgewood. The Adjustment equals $0.0169 increase per $100 of assessed value over the 2023 rate. The 2024 average home in the Village is valued at $710,168 ($707,500 in 2023). It was stated the Municipal tax increase of 2023 was $4,605 on the average assessed home, and in 2024, the Municipal tax increase is $4,751, resulting in an annual increase of $146.00 on the average home or $12.17 a month. 13 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 13, 2024 There was a breakdown given of the Village of Ridgewood property tax bill representing the other areas of taxation including Bergen County tax, Bergen County Open Space Tax, School Tax, Library Tax, and Municipal Open Space Tax. It was noted that the school tax absorbs most of the funding at 63.6%. Mr. Kazmark outlined that the Capital budget is separate from the Operating budget; however, 5% down payment must be represented in the operating budget as per statute. He summarized the approved 2024 Capital Budget projects. This includes Road Paving ($2,000,000); West Glen and East Glen Avenue sidewalks ($950,000); Kingsbridge Lane Pedestrian Bridge Restoration ($515,000); Fire Department Equipment ($115,000); Fire Engine replacement ($250,000); Police Department Vehicles and Radios ($186,000); OEM equipment and facility upgrades($240,000); Northwest Bergen Central Dispatch ( $50,000); Sanitation and Recycling Trucks and Equipment ($905,000); Parks and Recreation Projects and Equipment (1,260,000); Maple Field sinking fund ($50,000); Shade Tree Planting ($390,000); Library Generator Project ($65,000); and Public Works Equipment and Upgrade ( $850,000) for a total of $7,831,000, in the 2024 Capital Budget. Mr. Rooney outlined the recap of the gross debt of all capital funds as of 12/31/23. He indicated the total gross debt under General, Water Utility, and Parking Utility categories is $224,085,364.00. Councilmember Weitz reiterated there were five comprehensive separate budget hearing meetings and discussions that prepared the Village Council to enact the introduction of the budget this evening. Councilmember Winograd thanked all of the Village staff for their thorough and quick responsiveness to all of her inquiries throughout the process. Councilmember Reynolds echoed that appreciation. Deputy Mayor Perron stated that the ordinances that will be introduced this evening exemplify the Village in action, and what can be accomplished. Mr. Kazmark stated the Department Directors and the Village Council requests are all represented somewhere in the budget to address a spectrum of needs. He stated that because of the streamlined process this year, he and Mr. Rooney already have a clear path for the 2025 cycle. Mayor Vagianos stated that he is incredibly proud of this budget. He stated that in over four decades of budgeting, this is the most responsible budget he has reviewed. Mayor Vagianos highlighted the long-term planning being addressed through the establishment and funding of sinking funds. Mayor Vagianos stated that an average increase of $146.00 per household in today’s economy, without major cuts in staff or services, is truly an accomplishment and should be acknowledged. 14 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 13, 2024 Mr. Kazmark expressed appreciation to all of the Village staff and Village Council for the collective assistance and direction in seeing this process through, from start to finish. He stated this is truly a team effort. He stated there will be a social media campaign to educate the public about some of the highlights and impacts of the 2024 budget. He announced the Public Hearing on the 2024 budget is scheduled for April 10, 2024, at 7:30 PM. B. INTRODUCTION – ORDINANCE 3993- ESTABLISH A CAP BAN Mayor Vagianos moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3993 by title on first reading. Deputy Mayor Perron seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Weitz, Winograd, and Mayor Vagianos NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3993 by title only: CALENDAR YEAR 2024 ORDINANCE TO EXCEED THE MUNICIPAL BUDGET APPROPRIATION LIMITS AND TO ESTABLISH A CAP BANK (N.J.S.A 40A:4-45.14) Councilmember Reynolds moved that Ordinance #3993 be adopted on first reading and that April 10, 2024, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Deputy Mayor Perron seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Weitz, Winograd, and Mayor Vagianos NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None C. RESOLUTIONS Ms. Mailander indicated that the following resolutions, numbered 24-77 through 24-79, were to be adopted by a consent agenda and read by title only: 15 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 13, 2024 Ms. Mailander indicated that the following resolution, numbered 24-80 was to be considered separately and read in full: 16 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 13, 2024 10. ORDINANCES – RIDGEWOOD WATER A. INTRODUCTION – #3994 – BOND ORDINANCE – WATER UTILITY CAPITAL (NTE $4,056,000) Mayor Vagianos moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3994 by title on first reading. Councilmember Reynolds seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Weitz, Winograd, and Mayor Vagianos NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3994 by title only: BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM REPAIRS AND REPLACEMENTS FOR THE WATER UTILITY IN AND BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $4,056,000 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $3,853,200 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE PART OF THE COST THEREOF Deputy Mayor Perron moved that Ordinance #3994 be adopted on first reading and that April 10, 2024, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilmember Reynolds seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Weitz, Winograd, and Mayor Vagianos NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None B. INTRODUCTION – #3995 – AMEND CHAPTER 145 – FEES- WATER RATES & PFAS TREATMENT CHARGES Mayor Vagianos moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3995 by title on first reading. Councilmember Weitz seconded the motion. 17 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 13, 2024 Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Weitz, Winograd, and Mayor Vagianos NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3995 by title only: AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 145 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, FEES, AT SECTION 145-6, “ENUMERATION OF FEES RELATING TO CODE CHAPTERS Deputy Mayor Perron moved that Ordinance #3995 be adopted on first reading and that April 10, 2024, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilmember Weitz seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Weitz, Winograd, and Mayor Vagianos NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None C. PUBLIC HEARING - NONE 11. RESOLUTIONS – RIDGEWOOD WATER Ms. Mailander indicated that the following resolutions, numbered 24-81 through 24-91, were to be adopted by a consent agenda and read by title only: 18 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 13, 2024 12. ORDINANCES A. INTRODUCTION – #3996 – BOND ORDINANCE – GENERAL CAPITAL (NTE $4,040,690) Mayor Vagianos moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3996 by title on first reading. Councilmember Winograd seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Weitz, Winograd, and Mayor Vagianos NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3996 by title only: BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR VARIOUS CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS IN AND BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $4,040,690 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $3,838,655 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE PART OF THE COST THEREOF Deputy Mayor Perron moved that Ordinance #3996 be adopted on first reading and that April 10, 2024, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilmember Winograd seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Weitz, Winograd, and Mayor Vagianos NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None B. INTRODUCTION – #3997 - ASSESSMENT OF LEAD SERVICE LINE REPLACEMENT IN THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD Mayor Vagianos moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #3997 by title on first reading. Councilmember Winograd seconded the motion. 19 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 13, 2024 Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Weitz, Winograd, and Mayor Vagianos NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None The Village Clerk read Ordinance #3997 by title only: AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY, PROVIDING FOR THE SPECIAL ASSESSMENT OF ALL OR A PORTION OF THE COST RELATING TO LEAD SERVICE LINE REPLACEMENT Councilmember Reynolds moved that Ordinance #3997 be adopted on first reading and that April 10, 2024, be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilmember Winograd seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Weitz, Winograd, and Mayor Vagianos NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None C. PUBLIC HEARING – NONE 13. RESOLUTIONS Ms. Mailander stated that the following resolutions, numbered 24-92 through 24-111 were to be adopted by a consent agenda and read by title only: 20 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 13, 2024 14. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC Mayor Vagianos asked if there were any additional comments or questions from the public. Rurik Halaby, 1 Franklin Avenue, complimented the Village Council for the upgrade to quality of life in the Village recently. He stated he was impressed with the accomplishments of 2023 and appreciated the goals set for 2024. He complimented Mr. Rooney, Chief Financial Officer, on the budget presentation as well as his ongoing management of the complex municipal budgets. He congratulated Sergeant Tarino on his promotion and referenced positive interactions with him over the years. Suzanne Ruane, 705 Kingsbridge Lane, asked for clarification if the restoration of the Kingsbridge Lane Pedestrian Bridge was part of the budget presentation. She reiterated her suggestion that other surrounding municipalities help clean up their waterways, so there is a joint effort that mutually benefits all communities along the Village’s waterways. Mr. Kazmark responded that Congressman Gottheimer was the individual who assisted the Village in making connections with the Army Corps of Engineers. He also explained that the restoration of the Kingsbridge Lane Pedestrian Bridge is part of the Municipal Budget. He stated the PowerPoint presentation will be posted to the website tomorrow, and there is a reference on slide 31 to that project. He confirmed the project is moving forward. 15. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilmember Deputy Mayor Perron, seconded by Councilmember Winograd, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Regular Public Meeting was adjourned at 9:18 P.M. ____________________________________ Paul Vagianos Mayor _______________________________________ Heather A. Mailander Village Clerk 21 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 13, 2024