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 OCTOBER 9, 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 7:33 p.m. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. At roll call, the following were present: Councilmembers Perron, Weitz, Winograd, and Mayor Vagianos. Councilmember Reynolds arrived to the meeting at 8:10 p.m. Also present were Keith Kazmark, Village Manager, and Heather Mailander, Village Clerk. Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney, was absent. Mayor Vagianos led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag. Mayor Vagianos asked for a moment of silence for those Florida residents suffering the after-effects of Hurricane Helene, and another moment of silence in recognition of the further damage that will imminently be caused by Hurricane Milton. Mayor Vagianos said that it has been one year since the horrible massacre that occurred on October 7, 2023, when rockets were fired from Gaza into Israeli cities and towns, causing mass civilian casualties. He stated that tens of thousands of innocent people have been killed and the violence threatens to spread completely out of control. Mayor Vagianos asked for another moment of silence and prayer that our leaders can find a path to peace. 2. ACCEPTANCE OF FINANCIAL REPORTS Mayor Vagianos moved that the Bills, Claims, and Vouchers, and Statement of Funds on Hand as of September 30, 2024, be accepted as submitted. Councilmember Winograd seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Weitz, Winograd and Vagianos NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Reynolds ABSTAIN: None 3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES There were no minutes to be considered for approval this evening. 1 Village Council Regular Public Meeting October 9, 2024 4. PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZE AND HONOR INES BUNZA AND PROCLAIM OCTOBER 15-20, 2024 AS ACCESS WEEK 2024 Councilmember Winograd stated that Ines Bunza was the Chair of the ACCESS Committee for many years, before her passing. In her honor, ACCESS Day has been expanded to ACCESS Week, and there will be a myriad of activities held during that week. Councilmember Winograd thanked Ridgewood’s first responders and members of the ACCESS Committee and Ridgewood Library for their assistance in this regard. As the Village Councilmembers were joined by the family of Ines Bunza on the floor, Councilmember Winograd read the following Proclamation: 2 Village Council Regular Public Meeting October 9, 2024 After a resounding round of applause, Ines Bunza’s daughter thanked the Village Councilmembers for honoring her mother and for letting her mother “shine” in her service to the Village community. She also thanked the members of the ACCESS Committee for their kindness to her mother and her family. There was another resounding round of applause. Mayor Vagianos said that everyone in Ridgewood was very fortunate to have Ines Bunza in the community. He said that she did so much for the residents of Ridgewood and provided a special light and example that everyone should follow in their lives. 5. RECOGNIZE RIDGEWOOD CIVIL YOUTH CORPS VOLUNTEERS AND AWARD PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES VOLUNTEER SERVICE AWARD FOR VOLUNTEER SERVICE, TO THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD Mayor Vagianos introduced Ryan Shintani, Qaanit Syed and Jake Chudy, as well as Gwenn Hauck and Deanna Schablik, and asked them to join him on the floor. Mayor Vagianos stated that these young men are members of the Ridgewood Civic Youth Corps, and they are being presented this evening with the President’s Volunteer Service Award for their outstanding volunteer service to the Village. Ms. Hauck said that she was pleased to honor these amazingly motivated young men, who demonstrated leadership skills and generosity with their time. She reported that these young men represent 3 out of 24 high school students who have joined the Ridgewood Civic Youth Corps, an organization designed to teach leadership through volunteerism. Ms. Hauck stated that Ms. Schablik is the group’s advisor. This organization started as a Ridgewood High School lunch program, with the aim toward getting youth involved in municipal government and nonprofit organizations, and has quadrupled in size since being formed nine years ago. Ms. Schablik stated that one of their members asked them to join the President’s Volunteer Service Award group, which is a recognition program in the United States that honors individuals and groups for their volunteer service. Ms. Schablik stated that in 2003, the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation founded the President’s Volunteer Service Award, to recognize the important role of volunteers in America’s strength and national identity. This group is led by AmeriCorps and managed in partnership with Points of Light. This program also certifies organizations to recognize their most exceptional volunteers. As Mayor Vagianos presented the medals to these young men, Ms. Schablik reported that Jake Chudy has earned the Bronze Medal for performing 58 hours of community service over the past 12 months. Qaanit Syed also earned the Bronze Medal for performing 51 hours of community service over the past 12 months, and Ryan Shintani, President of the Civic Youth Corps for the last two years, earned the Gold Medal for performing 140 hours of community service over the past 12 3 Village Council Regular Public Meeting October 9, 2024 months. There was a resounding round of applause after each presentation. Ms. Schablik said that she was very proud of these young men, and all of the members of their organization. Ms. Hauck said that these young men have volunteered their time to assist the Police and Health Departments, and assisted at the Earth Day Fair, Elder Dinner, intergenerational events, Art Beat, Middle School STEM Challenge, Ridgewood High School Quiz Bowl, Mayor and Council Meet and Greets, and Downtown for the Holidays. They also acted as Ambassadors for the Village during the Covid-19 epidemic. She encouraged anyone who needs help with an event to call the Ridgewood Civic Youth Corps for assistance. Ms. Hauck thanked Ryan Shintani’s brother, Brandon, who was the catalyst for the Civic Youth Corps to register and become certified, so that the Ridgewood Civic Youth Corps would qualify for the President’s Volunteer Service Award. There was another round of applause. Mayor Vagianos said that these young men give him hope that this world will be left in very capable hands in the future. He thanked them all for their volunteer service. 6. SWEARING-IN OF SPECIAL LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER III Mayor Vagianos asked Travis Canning to join him on the floor to be sworn in. He stated that Mr. Canning is a trio of Special Law Enforcement Officer IIIs who have been hired to work in Ridgewood schools, primarily at George Washington Middle School, Benjamin Franklin Middle School, and Ridgewood High School. They will serve to protect students, as well as to foster good relations with police officers and youth in a positive light. All Village Councilmembers joined Mayor Vagianos on the floor, and he swore in Travis Canning as a Special Law Enforcement Officer III, as his wife Claudia held the Bible. There was a resounding round of applause Mayor Vagianos asked Christen Hughes to join him and the Village Councilmembers on the floor to be sworn in. As his daughter, Fiona, held the Bible and his family looked on, Mr. Hughes was sworn in by Mayor Vagianos. There was another resounding round of applause Mayor Vagianos then asked Anthony Losito to join him and the Village Councilmembers on the floor to be sworn in. As his wife held the Bible and his children looked on, Mr. Losito was sworn in by Mayor Vagianos. There was another resounding round of applause. 7. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC Michael Noe, a resident of Ridgewood since 1982, said that he has some suggestions to solve the field shortage problem in Ridgewood. The Village is always looking for properties to purchase, in order to use the property for athletic fields. There is vacant property at the border of Ho-Ho-Kus, which was the former Village Ford property on North Maple Avenue. He urged the Village Councilmembers to think outside the box and construct a large Superdome-sized building in that 4 Village Council Regular Public Meeting October 9, 2024 location, similar to the one in Waldwick, where sports would be played indoors. He encouraged the Village Councilmembers to visit Superdome Sports in Waldwick to see what it looks like and how it functions. It is open every day, is not dependent upon the weather, and accommodates youth of all ages. He said that if younger children could use a similar type of field, then the other fields in Ridgewood could be opened up for older children who need more space. If the former Village Ford property is not for sale, Mr. Noe was confident that there are other commercial type properties that could be considered for use as a playing field, perhaps vacant stores or warehouses in other towns, other than Ridgewood. Mr. Noe acknowledged that a project of this size could cost millions of dollars. However, he said that a lot of money was spent on Habernickel Park and on the Schedler property. Kathy Noe, a long-time resident of Ridgewood, said that she lives near Hawes School. She emphasized that people who live in a certain neighborhood know their surroundings the best. They know which streets flood and what problems exist in their neighborhood. Ms. Noe said that she met with Nancy Bigos, Director of the Parks and Recreation Department, and Mr. Kazmark regarding the fields by Hawes School. Mr. Kazmark indicated that he will be sending a letter to adjacent neighbors, to let them know of what work will be done at Hawes Field. However, she wished that this would have been done before a vote was taken on this matter, in case someone who lives in that neighborhood wanted to bring a concern to the attention of the Village Councilmembers. Ms. Noe stated that her Hawes neighborhood has water issues, and the fields by Hawes School do flood. She shared pictures of flooding on Hawes Field with Ms. Bigos and Mr. Kazmark. She said that someone even had a kayak out in the floodwaters. Before Hawes School was built, the lower field was a wooded area and the portion in the higher elevation was a “dump” for the Village. Before the school was built, the soil had to be examined to make sure it was not contaminated. When the lower field was constructed, Ms. Noe said that it was in the shape of a bowl and water collected there. Ms. Noe said that the soccer field was “crowned” so that water fell off to the sides and closer to neighboring homes. Ms. Noe said that before any work is done on the fields at Hawes School, the flooding issues need to be resolved. She urged for more transparency on the part of the Village Council. She asked that more information be given this evening about the actual work that is going to be done at Hawes Field. Scott Muller, a long-time resident of Ridgewood, congratulated the Village Councilmembers on taking definitive action to make the playing fields safe in the Village, especially lower Hawes Field. He said that there are runoff problems in that area, as well as seeding issues. He stated that the field is a mess and dangerous for children to play on. He thanked the Village Councilmembers for voting to install a pavilion at Habernickel Park, with restrooms to be installed in the future. Pete Gutierrez, a resident of Ridgewood for approximately 10 years, thanked the Village Councilmembers for taking decisive action to improve the fields at Hawes School. He said that 5 Village Council Regular Public Meeting October 9, 2024 there are more children playing sports today than ever before, and the fields need to be in good shape. He said that he is looking forward to seeing children playing on the field once again. Suzanne Ruane, a resident of Ridgewood, said that the matter of the Kingsbridge Lane Pedestrian Bridge is on the meeting agenda this evening, and she expressed the hope that the Village Engineer would be present this evening to explain to the public the restoration process of the bridge. Ms. Ruane spoke about global warming, and asked what action is being taken by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regarding the flooding issues in the Village. Kristina Milian, a resident of Ridgewood, stated that at the September 25, 2024 Village Council meeting, representatives from the Ridgewood Guild presented findings from a study done by Placer.ai, which basically “tracked people” in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square, from July 2023 to June 2024. She asked if Placer.ai, which is based in Israel, warned people that their actions were being tracked. Ms. Milian asked if any signs were erected in the park, notifying people that their data was being collected, both before and after events took place in the park. She asked how this data was collected, and how they could possibly know if people went home or to work after the event. Ms. Milian said that people should have been given the opportunity to opt out of such tracking. She asked exactly what data was collected, how long it would be retained, and who presently has access to that data. Most importantly, with the safety of children in mind, Ms. Milian asked how data gleaned from minors is handled. She said that she would like answers to her security and compliance questions. There were no further public comments. Ms. Mailander announced that Councilmember Reynolds has now arrived to the meeting. Addressing Ms. Ruane’s comments, Mr. Kazmark stated that if the contract for the repairs to the Kingsbridge Lane Pedestrian Bridge is awarded this evening, then a pre-construction meeting will be scheduled with the contractor who will be removing the bridge, repairing it, and then reinstalling it. Once the pre-construction meeting is held, and the timeline and scope of work are determined, then the public will be informed of the details by Christopher Rutishauser, Village Engineer. Mr. Kazmark noted that a meeting will be scheduled within the next two weeks with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to address flooding issues in the Village. He is currently awaiting word of what transpires in Congress regarding Warner funds and the Water Act, and how much funds are appropriated. The amount of these funds will determine how much work can be done by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to address the flooding solutions being proposed in the Village. A meeting is going to be scheduled with representatives of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers shortly, and he will have more definitive answers at that time. 6 Village Council Regular Public Meeting October 9, 2024 Addressing Ms. Milian’s concerns, Mr. Kazmark said that he has met with representatives of Placer.ai and viewed a presentation by them, but Village officials were not involved in the original study undertaken by the Ridgewood Guild. He recommended that Ms. Milian ask her questions directly to Placer.ai. Councilmember Winograd stated that there is a document called the Ridgewood Open Space Inventory (ROSI), which lists all of the open spaces that could potentially be acquired by the Village. She said that the former Village Ford property is currently on the ROSI and is privately held. Councilmember Winograd asked Mr. Noe to send her an email if he wants to see the list. Deputy Mayor Perron clarified that the former Village Ford property is not on the ROSI. Councilmember Winograd said that when she was first elected to the Village Council, she and the members of the Fields Committee reviewed which fields in Ridgewood received the most complaints, and the field with the most concerns was Hawes Field, even to the point where players refused to play on the field due to its condition. The Ridgewood Baseball/Softball Association (RBSA) has earmarked $12,500.00 for the restoration of the lower baseball field at Hawes School. A field trip to the field evidenced the need for renovations. Councilmember Winograd spoke about the fund that is specifically to be used for renovations to playing fields in the Village, with monies coming from sports and recreation events and camps. She invited Ms. Noe to look in the Sunshine Binder for details regarding what renovations will be done to the fields at Hawes School, via Resolution No. 24-329. Part of the renovations will include improvements for drainage. She apologized that neighbors in the Hawes area felt left out; however, she stated that a member of the Fields Committee lives in the Hawes area and has been part of the discussions regarding what renovations will be made at Hawes. The main renovations will be to improve the drainage, remove old tree stumps, and make field improvements. She asked Ms. Noe to send her the pictures of the kayak in the flooded field, so that she may provide them to the contractor making the improvements. 8. VILLAGE MANAGER’S REPORT Mr. Kazmark publicly welcomed Travis Canning, Christen Hughes and Anthony Losito to the Village, who were hired and sworn in as Special Law Enforcement Officer IIIs. He said that many parents have reached out to him about expanding this program to the elementary schools, which Mr. Kazmark said was still in the discussion phase for the next school year. He said that there are budgetary concerns that need to be addressed by the Village and Board of Education in 2025. Mr. Kazmark thanked all Village Department Directors, especially the staff of Ridgewood Water who monitor the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software, and the staff of the I.T. Department and Office of Emergency Management, for their assistance in migrating all of their 7 Village Council Regular Public Meeting October 9, 2024 contact information for Ridgewood residents to the emergency reverse 911 system. Prior to the Ridgewood Water boil water advisory on September 21, 2024, there were 5,500 contacts for Ridgewood residents in the system. Last week, a total of 3,400 additional contacts, tied to specific addresses in Ridgewood, were migrated into the system. This contact information was culled from all Village Departments. Mr. Kazmark stated that last Thursday, a reverse 911 call was initiated to advise the new contacts that they were added to the system and to advise that they had the option to opt out. Out of the 3,400 new contacts, only 64 have opted out of being included in the system, as of this afternoon. Mr. Kazmark said that he has extended an invitation to Glen Rock, Midland Park and Wyckoff to add their residents’ contact information to the reverse 911 system. Mr. Kazmark stated that the quarterly notice from Ridgewood Water was delivered to the post office, and customers of Ridgewood Water should receive this mailing tomorrow or shortly thereafter. He said that there is a QR code on the bottom left-hand corner, which customers may scan to sign up to be included in the reverse 911 system. There are two emergency resolutions (No. 24-319 and No. 24-320) on the agenda this evening, in connection with the boil water advisory that occurred on September 21. He asked Richard Calbi, Director of Ridgewood Water, to explain the purpose of these two resolutions. Mr. Calbi said that the first resolution seeks approval for the emergency appropriation of $200,000.00 to the Ridgewood Water Operating Budget for a short-term improvement to the water system. This improvement entails the installation of a temporary pump station on West Glen Avenue to transfer additional water into the Intermediate Zone. The pump will be installed within the County right-of-way, just east of the railroad crossing, by the Ridgewood Art Institute. Mott MacDonald was the professional engineering firm that evaluated the water distribution system through hydraulic modeling, during the boil water advisory a few weeks ago. The second resolution seeks approval for the emergency appropriation to Ridgewood Water in the amount of $42,400.00, to pay Mott MacDonald for performing the emergency hydraulic modeling study for low pressures in the Intermediate Zone. Mr. Calbi stated that Mott MacDonald continues to evaluate the water distribution system, and a full report is expected to be received by November 20, 2024. In the interim, this firm has offered a recommendation for a short-term fix to bring water from lower elevations to higher elevations. He has begun preparing a plan with the Village Engineer for the installation of the pump, and discussions have ensued with Bergen County regarding obtaining the necessary permits. Mr. Calbi indicated that he also spoke with someone at the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) relative to those permits, and he has begun procuring the equipment necessary to install the pump. He also requested a mark-out of the roadway. 8 Village Council Regular Public Meeting October 9, 2024 Mr. Calbi said that he explored the option of possibly purchasing water from the Borough of Waldwick. After meeting with Waldwick officials and being given relevant information, it was determined that this would not be feasible. It would have required putting a diesel generator on someone’s front lawn. Mr. Calbi said that installing the pump on West Glen Avenue is the best option. Another water emergency occurred yesterday due to low pressure, which affected 47 homes (8 of which were in Ridgewood and 39 in Midland Park), but the boil water advisory was lifted today. Only the affected homeowners were notified, either through door-to-door contact or by reverse 911 notification. Mr. Calbi is hopeful that the pump can be installed before the end of the year. Mr. Kazmark stated that these two resolutions were added to the agenda this evening, because the NJDEP is very interested in Ridgewood Water pursuing this short-term solution. Councilmember Reynolds asked if the NJDEP would be willing to contribute funds toward the short-term solution. Mr. Calbi said that he has not explored any possible grants for funding, but said that he would look into same. Councilmember Reynolds asked whether or not East Glen Avenue and Oak Street will be closed while the pump station is installed and, if so, for how long. Mr. Calbi said that the only work that will affect the roadway is the installation of piping, and a portion of East Glen Avenue will need to be closed during that time. He does not anticipate that the work will take more than a few days. Councilmember Reynolds asked if the houses affected last night during the water emergency were the same houses that were affected during the boil water advisory on September 21. Mr. Calbi replied that it was the same area, but encompassed fewer homes. Councilmember Winograd asked if the Ridgewood Art Institute was advised of this impending work, and Mr. Calbi stated that he has not contacted them yet. He is waiting for the plan to be developed by the Village Engineer, because he has to make sure that the pump station can fit in the County right-of-way. If it does not, then he will have to discuss temporary easements with the property owner. Deputy Mayor Perron said that she was not clear about the difference between the two resolutions. Mr. Calbi explained that Resolution No. 24-319 identifies the emergency and appropriates funding for the short-term solution, up to $200,000.00. This sum would include engineering, permitting and installation of the pump station, and procurement of the necessary equipment. Resolution No. 24-320 authorizes payment to the hydraulic engineer for his work during the water emergency. Mr. Kazmark stated that Resolution No. 24-320 approves a professional services contract. Mayor Vagianos asked Mr. Calbi if he has been able to find the pump that is needed for the work. Mr. Calbi said that the size of the pump has not yet been finalized. Once the size has been 9 Village Council Regular Public Meeting October 9, 2024 determined, he will search for the pump. Mayor Vagianos asked when approvals from Bergen County and NJDEP are expected. Mr. Calbi replied that he has already gotten approval from the County to do the work, but he will need to obtain a road opening permit from the County, which will probably be received before approval is received from the NJDEP. Mr. Calbi said that he spoke with someone from the NJDEP today, and they are recommending obtaining a full permit, rather than a temporary permit, and they have indicated that they will expedite their review of same. Mr. Calbi explained that a temporary permit only lasts one year, and obtaining a permanent permit will avoid the necessity of having to apply for another annual permit. Mayor Vagianos asked Mr. Calbi if he knew when approval would be obtained by the NJDEP, and Mr. Calbi said that he did not know. When asked by Mayor Vagianos if the work will be completed by the end of the year, Mr. Calbi stated that he hopes the work will be started before the end of the year, but the work will probably not be completed until the Spring of 2025. Mr. Kazmark stated that the low pressure drop experienced yesterday occurred between the hours of 4:00 a.m. and 4:30 a.m., a peak time for lawn irrigation. He said that the lawn watering season ends at the end of October or beginning of November, and low pressure will not occur as frequently, if at all. Mr. Kazmark stated that an inventory was performed yesterday of the 47 affected homes, and none of them had requested an exemption for lawn watering for new landscaping. Therefore, no exemptions need to be considered during this most challenging period for Ridgewood Water. There was a brief discussion about areas in higher elevations being affected the most, when excessive lawn watering creates low water pressure. Councilmember Reynolds asked if homeowners who have requested an exemption from the water restrictions, and who have underground sprinklers, are only allowed to water new landscaping between the hours of 3:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. For new plantings, Mr. Calbi said that homeowners can water new plantings before 10:00 a.m. and after 6 p.m. (21-day landscaping exemption). Councilmember Reynolds said that she has observed four homes watering their lawns at 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. She surmised that people are unaware of the watering restrictions. Mr. Calbi remarked that people are witnessing warmer weather in September and October and continue to water their lawns for a longer period of time. He sent out a mailer last year setting forth the water restrictions, and there are plans to send out more communications in this regard in 2025. Councilmember Reynolds asked Mr. Kazmark if the water regulations could be contained in the next Village E-News, and Mr. Kazmark replied in the affirmative. Mr. Kazmark added that Midland Park and Wyckoff officials have preliminarily indicated to him that they will allow Ridgewood Water to enforce water restrictions on a more stringent basis moving forward. He said that when the Village Councilmembers are engaged in the budget process in 2025, Mr. Calbi will probably request additional staffing to enforce the watering regulations in Ridgewood Water’s four-town service area. 10 Village Council Regular Public Meeting October 9, 2024 Councilmember Winograd stated that many people are unaware that watering lawns during the day, such as at 2:00 p.m., is stressful to lawns and plants. Mr. Calbi stated that they have begun engaging Green Ridgewood to help with sustainability and messaging to the public. Mr. Kazmark then continued with his Manager’s Report. He reported that the Village’s Street Division recently mailed out the leaf pickup schedule for 2024, which begins on October 14, 2024. He encouraged all residents to follow the specific schedule for the area in which they live. He pointed out that Area B will no longer be divided. Mr. Kazmark reminded residents that the dates listed on the flyer are placement dates and not pickup dates. Leaf collection will begin once the placement window has closed. The Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation Board of Directors has awarded the Ridgewood Fire Department four Argus thermal imaging camera kits, which are valued at $29,905.00. This grant was obtained through Millennium Strategies. He thanked Fire Chief John Judge for aggressively pursuing grant funds to offset the operational costs of the Fire Department. Mr. Kazmark reported that the Ridgewood Public Library now has a plan for connecting the generator from Ridgewood Water to the Library. The bid will be published on October 11, 2024, a site meeting will be held on October 22, 2024 with potential bidders, and bids will be due by November 5, 2024. It is expected that the contract will be awarded at the Library Board Meeting on November 19, 2024. Mr. Kazmark said that this is a joint venture between Ridgewood Water and the Library, and he is pleased that this project will finally be accomplished. Mr. Kazmark stated that, this evening, the Village Councilmembers will consider the award of a contract for the Hawes Field project. He emphasized that this is a resodding project (natural sod), and there are no plans to install lights or artificial turf. Mr. Kazmark stated that once the renovations are completed, there are plans to plant additional trees in that area. He is working with the Engineering Department to address some of the clogged storm drains in that area, which they believe may be problematic. Funds for the renovations are derived from fees and permitting from the Parks and Recreation Department Trust Fund and will have no impact on the Village’s Operating or Capital Budgets. Mr. Kazmark mentioned that he has a soil certificate from the contractor, who is being considered this evening to perform this work, certifying that the contractor will use only clean fill from a verified source to resod the field. A letter will be sent to surrounding neighbors outlining the scope of the project, so that there is heightened public awareness. Mr. Kazmark said that Demarest Street, Claremont Road, Ferris Place and Grant Street were all repaved last week. Today, repaving will begin on Lynn Street and Albin Court. Mr. Kazmark reported that the installation of an Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) curb ramp will begin on Ackerman Avenue tomorrow. Ackerman Avenue is scheduled to be repaved by the end of the month. 11 Village Council Regular Public Meeting October 9, 2024 Mr. Kazmark indicated that the YMCA will be hosting Oktoberfest on October 13, 2024, on the west side, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Free parking will be available at the Hudson Street Parking Garage during this event. Village offices will be closed on Monday, October 14, 2024, in observance of Columbus Day. The Recycling Center will also be closed, and there will be no curbside bulk pickup or refuse pickup on October 14. The Ridgewood Guild will be holding a Fall Harvest Marketplace on October 19, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square. The rain date for this event is October 20, 2024. A formal Trick or Treat event will be held at Village Hall on Halloween from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. All residents are invited to bring their ghouls, ghosts and goblins to Village Hall for a fun, safe and easy trick or treating experience and some delicious treats. This fun event will extend to the offices at Ridgewood Water, Ridgewood Library, Lester Stable, and the Fire Department. Mr. Kazmark stated that upcoming Village Council meetings are scheduled as follows: Work Sessions on October 23 and November 6, 2024 at 7:30 p.m., and a Public Meeting on November 13, 2024 at 7:30 p.m. 9. VILLAGE COUNCIL REPORTS Councilmember Weitz wished Ridgewood’s Jewish community a Happy New Year. This past Saturday, Councilmember Weitz participated in Council Chat and enjoyed engaging with Ridgewood residents. He congratulated the Patrolmen’s Benevolent Association (PBA) on hosting their Food Truck event, which was held this past Sunday. Councilmember Weitz said that he participated in a video recording last Friday announcing the passport services available at the Ridgewood Library. He said that this was a wonderful new service offered to Village residents. Councilmember Weitz stated that there was a lengthy meeting of the Historic Preservation Committee (HPC) last night. There were a number of applications from new businesses to Ridgewood, which had to be considered by the members of the HPC. Councilmember Weitz said that it is important to untangle the red tape for new businesses coming to the Village, yet at the same time, preserving the character of the historic districts in the Village. On Monday night, Councilmember Weitz represented the Village at an October 7th memorial event, held by the Jewish Federation of Northern New Jersey. There were over 4,000 people in attendance at the event, with many local and federal leaders in attendance. He thanked the 12 Village Council Regular Public Meeting October 9, 2024 Tenafly Police Department, as well as local and federal law enforcement, who provided security at the event. He joined Mayor Vagianos in his hope for peace in the Middle East. Councilmember Winograd said that the highlight of her week was meeting with Boy Scout Troop #7, one of the oldest scouting groups in Ridgewood. There were boys of all ages in attendance, since the troops have merged, and Councilmember Winograd gave a speech on good citizenship and voting. She fielded many questions and stated that some of the boys are eager to earn their Eagle Scout Award. She thanked Ms. Mailander for furnishing the boys with pins to wear on their collars. There was a Fields Committee meeting last Tuesday, during which plans for the Master Library were discussed. The group heading up the feasibility assessment for the Board of Education (BOE) sent out a letter memorializing the decision that the field at Benjamin Franklin Middle School is the field that will be looked at next, as an alternate to the Ridgewood High School field, since the fields at the high school are constantly flooding. Councilmember Winograd mentioned that the insurance deductible for the BOE has increased from $50,000.00 to $500,000.00, due to the persistent flooding. The American Boy Fall Brawl charity game between Colgate University and Princeton University lacrosse players was held at the high school this past Sunday, which was sponsored by Fall Brawl and American Boy to raise funds for drug addiction. Princeton players won the game 11-10. She thanked everyone involved in organizing this fundraising effort. Councilmember Winograd added that youth who play sports are most at risk for being overprescribed drugs. Focus is being placed on educating youth about opioid addiction. Councilmember Winograd thanked the League of Women Voters for holding their annual luncheon today. She also thanked Reverend Miller and Old Paramus Church for graciously offering the church as the venue for this event. The topic discussed during the meeting was affordable housing. The devastating effects of Covid on the population were also discussed. There was a meeting held last night with the Shade Tree Commission. Councilmember Winograd reminded everyone that October 19, 2024 is Adopt-A-Sapling Day. She encouraged all residents to volunteer to help plant these saplings. There are now 12 Tree Captains to help in this endeavor. Volunteers will just need to bring gloves, a shovel and a hammer. She thanked everyone who volunteered to be a Tree Captain. Councilmember Reynolds stated that members of Project Pride and volunteers planted the fall flowers in the Central Business District (CBD) this past Sunday. She thanked all of the volunteers and Village Councilmembers who participated. The fall plantings will be removed on November 10, 2024, so that the Ridgewood Guild can begin decorating for the holiday season. Councilmember Reynolds noted on the agenda this evening that the low bidder, Courier Printing, will be awarded the project for printing the 2025 Village Calendar. She asked Mr. Kazmark if 13 Village Council Regular Public Meeting October 9, 2024 someone had checked references or recommendations regarding this company. Mr. Kazmark said that he and Carol Bialkowski, Director of Communications and Special Events, had a Zoom meeting with this company and they learned that this company has some limited experience doing such calendars, so they will be awarded the contract for the Village Calendar, as the lowest quote received for this work. Regarding the Kingsbridge Lane Pedestrian Bridge, Councilmember Reynolds asked if the recommended vendor for refurbishment of the bridge is the same vendor who had originally submitted a bid the first time it was sent out, but their paperwork was improperly done. Mr. Kazmark said he did not think so, but he will confirm that with her, once he finds out from Christopher Rutishauser, Village Engineer. Deputy Mayor Perron stated that her committees did not meet since the last Village Council meeting. She mentioned how much she enjoyed helping out with the fall plantings in the CBD. She reminded all homeowners to leave fallen leaves in garden beds and around shrubbery, so that the soil and plantings may be enriched by the leaf decomposition. Deputy Mayor Perron stated that Green Ridgewood will be meeting tomorrow evening in the Senior Lounge at 7:30 p.m. On October 17, 2024, the Central Business District Advisory Committee (CBDAC) will hold a meeting in person in the Senior Lounge at 8:30 a.m. Deputy Mayor Perron announced that on October 16, 2024, the League of Women Voters is holding a Candidates Forum in the Village Hall Courtroom at 7:30 p.m. Ms. Mailander added that on October 15, 2024, from 4:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., there will be voter registration held in the lobby at the Ridgewood Library. This will be the last opportunity to register to vote for the General Election. Individuals may also register to vote in the Village Clerk’s Office at any time the office is open. When questioned by Deputy Mayor Perron as to whether or not early voting begins six days before the election, Ms. Mailander indicated that early voting starts October 26, 2024 and ends on November 3, 2024. The various locations for early voting were discussed. Councilmember Winograd added that questions may be pre-submitted to the League of Women Votes, regarding the Candidates Forum to be held on October 16th, but there will be no live question-and-answer session at the debate. Mayor Vagianos said that his committees have not met since the last Village Council meeting. He said that he attended a wonderful party sponsored by the Ridgewood Education Foundation on Saturday evening at the Women’s Club. The Dad’s Night Band provided musical entertainment for this fundraising event. 10. ORDINANCES – RIDGEWOOD WATER There were no ordinances for introduction this evening for Ridgewood Water. 14 Village Council Regular Public Meeting October 9, 2024  A. PUBLIC HEARING - #4013 – BOND ORDINANCE - CONSTRUCTION OF THE MOUNTAIN PFAS TREATMENT FACILITY Mayor Vagianos moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #4013 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. 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 #4013 by title only: BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE MOUNTAIN PFAS TREATMENT FACILITY BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $3,300,000 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $3,300,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE THE COST THEREOF Deputy Mayor Perron reminded the public that the Mountain PFAS treatment facility is located in Wyckoff. Boyd A. Loving, a resident of Ridgewood, asked what section of Wyckoff the Mountain PFAS treatment facility will serve. Mr. Calbi replied that the facility is located on Holly Drive in Wyckoff (the High Zone). Mr. Loving asked if this is where the Christian Healthcare Center and The Vista are located, and Mr. Calbi confirmed same. Mr. Loving said that he believed at one time that Ridgewood Water planned to build a 180-foot high water tank in that area and this was not allowed by Wyckoff officials. He expressed concern that over $3 million will be spent on this PFAS treatment facility and the same recent low water pressure encountered in Midland Park will be encountered again. He asked if actions could be taken to alleviate the low PSI issue, at the same time that the PFAS treatment facility is constructed, especially since The Vista has brought more residents to the area. Mr. Calbi explained that The Vista property is serviced by the Borough of Hawthorne, and not by Ridgewood Water. The tank project spoken about by Mr. Loving was discussed before Mr. Calbi joined Ridgewood Water, but he does recall a lot of opposition to the project. Since that time, Mr. Calbi stated that Ridgewood Water has been able to provide an alternate means of water to that zone through its connection with Veolia Water. The proposed tank would have 15 Village Council Regular Public Meeting October 9, 2024 served a portion of Wyckoff, known as the Booster Zone. The low pressure issue was encountered in the Intermediate Zone. Mayor Vagianos stated that the PFAS treatment facility project and the low water pressure problems are two separate issues, and this was confirmed by Mr. Calbi. An Administrative Consent Order with the NJDEP mandates the Mountain PFAS treatment facility project. If this facility is not built, the Village and Ridgewood Water will be subjected to daily fines. Since there were no further public comments, Mayor Vagianos moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance #4013 be closed. Deputy Mayor Perron seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Weitz, Winograd, and Mayor Vagianos NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None Councilmember Weitz moved that Ordinance #4013 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Deputy Mayor Perron seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Weitz, Winograd, and Mayor Vagianos NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None B. PUBLIC HEARING - #4014 – BOND ORDINANCE - CONSTRUCTION OF THE MAIN PFAS TREATMENT FACILITY Mayor Vagianos moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #4014 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. 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 #4014 by title only: 16 Village Council Regular Public Meeting October 9, 2024  BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE MAIN PFAS TREATMENT FACILITY BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $3,100,000 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $3,100,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE THE COST THEREOF Deputy Mayor Perron stated that the Main PFAS treatment facility is located in Glen Rock. Since there were no public comments, Mayor Vagianos moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance #4014 be closed. Councilmember Winograd seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Weitz, Winograd, and Mayor Vagianos NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None Councilmember Weitz moved that Ordinance #4014 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. 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 - #4015 – BOND ORDINANCE - CONSTRUCTION OF THE EASTSIDE PFAS TREATMENT FACILITY Mayor Vagianos moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #4015 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. 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 #4015 by title only: 17 Village Council Regular Public Meeting October 9, 2024  BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE EASTSIDE PFAS TREATMENT FACILITY IN AND BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $8,000,000 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $8,000,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE THE COST THEREOF Deputy Mayor Perron reminded the public that the Eastside PFAS treatment facility is located in Ridgewood. Since there were no public comments, Mayor Vagianos moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance #4015 be closed. Councilmember Winograd seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Weitz, Winograd, and Mayor Vagianos NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None Deputy Mayor Perron moved that Ordinance #4015 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilmember Winograd seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Weitz, Winograd, and Mayor Vagianos NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None 11. RESOLUTIONS – RIDGEWOOD WATER Ms. Mailander indicated that the following resolutions, numbered 24-318 through 24-323, would be adopted by a Consent Agenda, with one vote by the Village Council, and would be read by title only: 18 Village Council Regular Public Meeting October 9, 2024 12. ORDINANCES A. INTRODUCTION - #4018 – AMEND CHAPTER 145 – FEES – 2025 PARKING PERMIT FEES Mayor Vagianos moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #4018 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 #4018 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” Councilmember Weitz moved that Ordinance #4018 be adopted on first reading and that November 13, 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 - #4019 – AMEND CHAPTER 145 – FEES - OUTDOOR CAFÉ FEES Mayor Vagianos moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #4019 by title on first reading. Councilmember Weitz seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Weitz, Winograd and Mayor Vagianos NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None 19 Village Council Regular Public Meeting October 9, 2024 The Village Clerk read Ordinance #4019 by title only: AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 145-6 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, ENTITLED “ENUMERATION OF FEES RELATED TO CODE CHAPTERS” UNDER CHAPTER 156-70F ENTITLED “OUTDOOR CAFÉ LICENSE, ANNUAL FEE PER NUMBER OF SEATS” TO AMEND THE FEES CHARGED FOR OUTDOOR CAFES Deputy Mayor Perron moved that Ordinance #4019 be adopted on first reading and that November 13, 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. INTRODUCTION - #4020 – SUPERVISORY SALARY ORDINANCE Mayor Vagianos moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #4020 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 #4020 by title only: AN ORDINANCE TO FIX A SALARY, WAGE OR COMPENSATION OF AND FOR THE SUPERVISORY EMPLOYEES OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, COUNTY OF BERGEN, AND STATE OF NEW JERSEY Councilmember Winograd moved that Ordinance #4020 be adopted on first reading and that November 13, 2024 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Deputy Mayor Perron seconded the motion. 20 Village Council Regular Public Meeting October 9, 2024 Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Weitz, Winograd and Mayor Vagianos NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None D. INTRODUCTION - #4021 – 2025 NON-UNION SALARY ORDINANCE Mayor Vagianos moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #4021 by title on first reading. Councilmember Weitz 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 #4021 by title only: 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 THE YEAR 2025 Deputy Mayor Perron moved that Ordinance #4021 be adopted on first reading and that November 13, 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 E. INTRODUCTION - #4022 – 2025 MANAGEMENT SALARY ORDINANCE Mayor Vagianos moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #4022 by title on first reading. Councilmember Winograd seconded the motion. 21 Village Council Regular Public Meeting October 9, 2024 Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Weitz, Winograd and Mayor Vagianos NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None The Village Clerk read Ordinance #4022 by title only: AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE 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 2025 Councilmember Weitz moved that Ordinance #4022 be adopted on first reading and that November 13, 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 F. PUBLIC HEARING - #4016 – AMEND CHAPTER 249 – STREETS AND SIDEWALKS – INCREASE FINES FOR OVERGROWN CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT TREE WELLS Mayor Vagianos moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #4016 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilmember Weitz 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 #4016 by title only: 22 Village Council Regular Public Meeting October 9, 2024  AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 249 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD ENTITLED “STREETS AND SIDEWALKS,” AT SECTION 249-24, ENTITLED “DUTY OF OWNER” AT SUBSECTION (B) Since there were no public comments, Mayor Vagianos moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance #4016 be closed. Councilmember Weitz seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Weitz, Winograd, and Mayor Vagianos NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None Councilmember Winograd moved that Ordinance #4016 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilmember Weitz seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Weitz, Winograd, and Mayor Vagianos NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None G. PUBLIC HEARING - #4017 – AMEND CHAPTER 223 – PROPERTY MAINTENANCE – INCREASE FINES FOR WEEDS IN EXCESS OF 10 INCHES Mayor Vagianos moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #4017 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilmember Weitz 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 #4017 by title only: AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 223 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, ENTITLED “PROPERTY MAINTENANCE” AT SECTION 223-59 ENTITLED “WEEDS” 23 Village Council Regular Public Meeting October 9, 2024 Since there were no public comments, Mayor Vagianos moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance #4017 be closed. Councilmember Weitz seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Weitz, Winograd, and Mayor Vagianos NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None Councilmember Winograd moved that Ordinance #4017 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilmember Weitz seconded the motion. Deputy Mayor Perron indicated that she was voting in favor of this ordinance, but she envisions a time in the future when plants would be allowed to grow above 10 inches. This is because there is a movement toward planting native plants, rather than lawns which are unsustainable, without herbicides, fertilizers and excessive watering. Councilmember Winograd said she was voting in favor of this ordinance, and the ordinance previously voted on, and thanked everyone who were instrumental in developing these ordinances, especially Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney. She said that it was very important to maintain the tree wells in the CBD. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, Weitz, Winograd, and Mayor Vagianos NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None 13. RESOLUTIONS Ms. Mailander indicated that the following resolutions, numbered 24-324 through 24-343, would be adopted by a Consent Agenda, with one vote by the Village Council, and would be read by title only: Prior to the vote on these resolutions, addressing a question asked previously by Councilmember Reynolds about Resolution #24-327, regarding the Kingsbridge Lane Pedestrian Bridge, Mr. Kazmark stated that the contractor who was granted this contract, Fred Devens Construction of Ringwood, New Jersey, was the same contractor who had bid on the project the first time, but it was rejected because the paperwork was deficient. 24 Village Council Regular Public Meeting October 9, 2024 Also prior to his vote on the resolutions, Mayor Vagianos said he was very proud of the Village Councilmembers for taking positive action regarding the renovations to the Kingsbridge Lane Pedestrian Bridge, since this matter has been lingering for many years. He also thanked resident Suzanne Ruane for her persistence in making sure that the Village Councilmembers did not forget about repairs to the bridge. 25 Village Council Regular Public Meeting October 9, 2024 14. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC Michael Noe, a resident of Ridgewood, thanked the Village I.T. Department for recording Village Council meetings, since he enjoys watching the meetings during the day. He expressed his best wishes to Councilmember Reynolds on her “retirement” from the Village Council. Mr. Noe said that he has resided in Ridgewood since 1982 and the water restrictions have been in force ever since he can remember. He said that even though Wyckoff refused to allow a water tank to be built there, such water tanks are for the “greater good.” Anne Loving, a resident of Ridgewood, said that she echoes the concerns expressed earlier by Ms. Milian, regarding the tracking of people through Placer.ai. She was quite alarmed to hear that the Ridgewood Guild was able to track people in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square, and how they were able to ascertain that these people went to The Daily Treat and Raymond’s Restaurant, or whether they went home. She questioned how they would know who she is, where she goes, and where she lives. Ms. Loving is concerned that her 11-year-old grandson, who is allowed to walk to the CBD with a friend to get ice cream, will be tracked. She said that Tony Damiano and apparently Mr. Kazmark knew that this tracking was occurring, yet the public did not know anything about it. Jim Reynolds, a resident of Ridgewood, said that he was calling to wish his wife, Councilmember Lorraine Reynolds, a happy anniversary. On October 11, 2024, they will be celebrating 38 years of marriage. He said many kind words about his wife, and said that although he could not be at the meeting in person, he wanted to take the opportunity to embarrass her one last time. He asked Mr. Loving to present a red rose to Councilmember Reynolds, on his behalf. He asked Mr. Loving to give his wife the yellow rose so that he wouldn’t get in trouble. Cynthia O’Keefe, a resident of Ridgewood, congratulated Councilmember Reynolds on her 38th anniversary. She said that she enjoyed doing the fall planting in the CBD last weekend with Councilmember Reynolds. Ms. O’Keefe said that she attended a Town Council meeting in Montclair last night, in person, to speak about turf. There were many people in attendance, and many of them approached Ms. O’Keefe and asked her questions about turf. Ms. O’Keefe feels that there are many ways to make grass fields sustainable through maintenance. She went to the Montclair Town Council meeting because they are potentially going to enact a moratorium on the installation of artificial turf for a number of years on playing and recreational fields. Ms. O’Keefe stated that Montclair officials declare that they do not have enough fields, similar to Ridgewood. Ms. O’Keefe said that Ridgewood has 37 fields that are not always properly maintained. She suggested that a subcommittee of the Fields Committee be formed to come up with ways to make sure that the fields in Ridgewood are properly maintained. The Green Team 26 Village Council Regular Public Meeting October 9, 2024 in Montclair is the group that spearheaded the turf moratorium and pushed it forward. Ms. O’Keefe said that with Green Ridgewood, tree plantings, and other green initiatives, Ridgewood needs to “walk the talk” by banning artificial turf. She stated that United Nations Secretary General Gutierrez stated that the world is in a climate crisis, and she asked when Ridgewood is going to start to address this issue. Kristina Milian, a resident of Ridgewood, thanked the Village Councilmembers for taking actions to make the repairs to the Kingsbridge Lane Pedestrian Bridge. She said that Ms. Ruane definitely deserves a shout-out for her persistence and activism. Ms. Milian said that the Ridgewood Guild has confirmed that they tracked residents and visitors to Ridgewood for a full year. When she raised her concerns about privacy and safety with Ridgewood officials, no one gave her an answer, except for Mr. Kazmark who suggested that Ms. Milian contact Placer.ai directly. She said that she does not understand why the burden of finding out answers is being placed on residents. The Ridgewood Guild claimed that they were contacted by Placer.ai, a $1.5 billion company, out of the blue, and that Placer.ai did the study pro bono. Data was collected on visitors to Memorial Park at Van Neste Square for a full year. She asked if the Village co-sponsored any of the events during which this tracking took place. Ms. Milian again asked what type of data is collected by Placer.ai, who has access to this data, whether the data is sold to third parties, and how they ensure that data from a minor is not captured. Ms. Milian spoke about the Data Privacy Law that was passed in January 2024, and asked whether the tracking done by Placer.ai complied with this law. Regarding the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), Ms. Milian said this Act sets forth stringent rules regarding data collection from minors and gives parents the power to protect their children. She asked whether the limitations set forth in this Act were followed by Placer.ai. She asked for transparency regarding what data was collected and whether or not it will be shared, and whether one can opt out of being tracked. She also asked if the Village would be working with Placer.ai in the future and whether or not tracking will be done during this weekend’s Oktoberfest, since this will determine whether or not she and others will attend the event. Suzanne Ruane, a resident of Ridgewood, thanked the Village Councilmembers for approving the contract for the repairs to the Kingsbridge Lane Pedestrian Bridge. She wished Councilmember Reynolds a happy anniversary. Ms. Ruane echoed Ms. Milian’s comments and shared the same concerns about tracking people. She said that even though she knows that “Big Brother” tracks one’s activities, she is very uncomfortable with the fact that this is being done in Ridgewood. There were no further public comments. 27 Village Council Regular Public Meeting October 9, 2024 Addressing Mr. Noe’s comments with regard to water distribution issues, Mr. Kazmark stated that prior to the Consent Order that required Ridgewood Water to do the PFAS treatment facility buildout, at a cost of approximately $150 million, Ridgewood Water had already been considering performing significant upgrades to the water distribution system. He said that one of the problems in the area affected during the boil water advisory (Midland Park on the border of Ridgewood and Wyckoff) is the ability to purchase water from other locations, such as from Veolia Water, the Passaic Valley Water Commission, and the Borough of Hawthorne, and being able to move that water from a Low Zone to the Intermediate Zone. The temporary solution approved this evening (pump station) will abate that problem for a short period of time, perhaps two to three years, until a better water distribution plan can be developed. The improved water distribution plan will be developed after the PFAS treatment facilities have been completed. The lawn watering season severely taxes the entire distribution system, throughout all four municipalities serviced by Ridgewood Water (Glen Rock, Midland Park, Ridgewood and Wyckoff). Addressing Ms. Loving’s concerns and comments, Mr. Kazmark clarified that he was actually unaware that the tracking of people was being performed in the CBD, and only learned of it during the presentation before the Village Council, by the Ridgewood Guild. Mr. Kazmark said that he sees no reason why the Village would utilize the services of Placer.ai, and acknowledged that knowing one is being tracked in one form or another is unsettling for everyone. He is unsure whether or not the Ridgewood Guild or Chamber of Commerce have a use for the services of Placer.ai. Mr. Kazmark said that he would inquire to see whether or not the League of Municipalities offers any guidelines regarding this type of business operating in individual municipalities. He also wondered if tracking will be eventually governed by ordinance in the future. Mayor Vagianos corroborated the fact that the Village has no involvement with Placer.ai and no ability to regulate them. He agrees with Mr. Kazmark that he should inquire with the League of Municipalities as to how they stand on this issue and whether they offer any guidelines concerning same. Mr. Kazmark said that it was his understanding that the services offered by Placer.ai are heavily used in the real estate field. Mr. Kazmark gave a shout-out to Jim Reynolds for wishing Councilmember Reynolds a happy anniversary, and he wished them a happy anniversary as well. Deputy Mayor Perron stated that it was her understanding that the data collected by Placer.ai is depersonalized, so they cannot readily identify specific individuals. However, she stated that this does not give her much solace. Councilmember Winograd added that she and Deputy Mayor Perron attended a workshop held by Placer.ai last year in Atlantic City, through the League of Municipalities, and there is no regulation governing them. She agreed with Mayor Vagianos that she cannot envision a use of the services of Placer.ai, by the Village. 28 Village Council Regular Public Meeting October 9, 2024 15. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Deputy Mayor Perron, seconded by Councilmember Weitz, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Regular Public Meeting was adjourned at 9:33 p.m. ____________________________________ Paul Vagianos Mayor ________________________________________ Heather A. Mailander Village Clerk 29 Village Council Regular Public Meeting October 9, 2024