Village Council Meeting

A REGULAR PUBLIC WORK SESSION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY, ON DECEMBER 4, 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 7:32 p.m. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. At roll call, the following were present: Councilmembers Perron, Reynolds, 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. Mayor Vagianos sadly announced that Rabbi David Fine’s father, Rabbi Robert Fine, lost his battle with cancer today. He asked for a moment of silence in his honor. 2. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC There were no comments from the public. 3. VILLAGE MANAGER’S REPORT Mr. Kazmark began his Village Manager’s report by thanking the staff of Ridgewood Water for their efforts to improve the water distribution system along West Glen Avenue and up toward the Midland Park border. Ridgewood Water has installed a new water main (booster station) to improve water flow to Ridgewood Water customers living in higher elevations. These customers, who live in the intermediate zone were affected by a boil water advisory earlier this year, due to low water pressure. Next Tuesday, more improvements will be made to the distribution system, and announcements will be made to affected neighbors and the public in the near future regarding road closures. Mr. Kazmark anticipated that this work will be completed by March of 2025. Mr. Kazmark reported that the rehabilitation of Lower Hawes Field is underway. He thanked Nancy Bigos, Director of the Parks and Recreation Department, and Matt Andreula, Supervisor of the Parks Department, for their efforts in this regard. This week, some trees in declining health had to be removed by The View in Ridgewood, between Hillcrest Road and Crest Road. New replacement trees were planted to establish a buffer zone between The View on Crest Road and the residential properties below on Hillcrest Road. This project should be completed by the end of December 2024. 1 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 4, 2024 Mr. Kazmark indicated that asbestos remediation is being completed at the former Town Garage property on Franklin Avenue. Mr. Kazmark has spoken with the contractor hired to complete the demolition of the Town Garage building. The contractor is currently in the process of requesting demolition permits from the Building Department, as well as arranging for the disconnection of water, sewer, gas and electric service. Mr. Kazmark anticipates that the demolition will be completed by the end of December 2024. Mr. Kazmark said that three Village policies have been issued in the past few weeks. The first policy mandates that all Department Directors first consider the purchase of fuel-efficient vehicles for the Village fleet, before deciding on the purchase of other types of vehicles. The second policy, distributed to all Department Directors, contains guidelines pertaining to the posting of public notices in Village-owned buildings, as well as materials displayed during Village Council meetings and in the Village Hall lobby. The third policy, drafted by Police Chief Forest Lyons, contains concealed carry guidelines, in accordance with State statutes. This third policy has been distributed to all Village employees. All issued policies are available to the public upon request. Mr. Kazmark thanked Downes Tree Service, the Village’s Parks and Recreation Department, the Police Department, the Ridgewood Chamber of Commerce, and all Village employees who assisted with transporting and erecting the Christmas tree in the Village, near the train station, in preparation for the Downtown for the Holidays celebration on December 6, 2024. Mr. Kazmark also thanked American Legion Post 53 Commander Louis Francis and his wife, Yvonne, for donating the Christmas tree. The tree lighting and other festivities will take place from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in the Central Business District. The tree will be lit at 6:30 p.m., at the intersection of East Ridgewood Avenue and North Broad Street. During Downtown for the Holidays, there will be a Touch-A-Truck event, a trackless train, nutcracker dancers in store windows, and Santa who will be traveling around in a golf cart. Further details are available through the Chamber of Commerce. Santa Claus will be visiting Ridgewood during the holiday season. He will be at Columbia Bank on December 7, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and also at Santa’s House in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square on December 7, 2024, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., and on December 14 and December 21, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The Ridgewood Fire Department Local 47 is sponsoring Santa Claus on his firetruck on Friday, December 20, 2024. The firetruck will make 15-minute stops at all Ridgewood elementary schools between 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. The visiting times at each elementary school will be announced via the Village’s E-News, as well as by a flyer that has been distributed. 2 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 4, 2024 All Village offices will be closed on December 24 and December 25, 2024 in observance of the Christmas holiday. There will be garbage and recycling pickup on December 24th. The Recycling Center will be open on December 24th from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The Annual Menorah Lighting will take place in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square on December 29, 2024 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Mr. Kazmark encouraged everyone to attend. Upcoming Village Council meetings are as follows: Work Sessions on December 11, 2024, January 8, 2025 and January 29, 2025; the Reorganization Meeting will be held on January 6, 2025; and the Public Meeting will be held on January 15, 2025. All meetings commence at 7:30 p.m. 4. VILLAGE COUNCIL REPORTS Councilmember Weitz congratulated the Ridgewood Arts Council for hosting their Artist Talk featuring Shantala Kaikini on November 14, 2024, at the Ridgewood Library. The Historic Preservation Commission met a couple of weeks ago and will be meeting again next week. Councilmember Weitz recently led a tour of Village Hall and the Police Department for Cub Scout Troop 66. He thanked Ms. Mailander and the Police Department for facilitating the tour for the troop. Councilmember Weitz indicated that he attended a recent meeting of the Ridgewood Library as Village Council Liaison. He indicated that over 2,000 people attended library programs during the month of September 2024. This past Sunday, the Ridgewood Symphony Orchestra performed at the library, and next Sunday there will be a jazz/piano/harmonica band performing at the library. Councilmember Winograd wished Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney, a happy birthday. She stated that, earlier this month, she attended a meeting of the New Jersey League of Municipalities, along with Mayor Vagianos, Ms. Mailander, Mr. Kazmark, and other Village employees. They learned of Best Practices followed by other municipalities. Councilmember Winograd spoke about self-cleaning bathrooms and the need for additional restroom facilities in the Village. Councilmember Winograd stated that as a result of a near tragedy that occurred during a meeting of the Parks, Recreation and Conservation Board last year, members of the Open Space Committee and the Parks, Recreation and Conservation Board attended an “intense” three-hour CPR/first aid training session conducted by the Fire Department. She encouraged everyone to learn these lifesaving techniques. Councilmember Winograd stated that while the traditional tree lighting in the Village will be held on Friday evening, December 6th, there will be an inclusionary event held where members of the special needs community with neurodivergent issues will have the chance to attend a 3 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 4, 2024 private tree lighting, with less crowds and noise. This event will be held at Parisa East Restaurant in Ridgewood on Monday, December 9, 2024. Councilmember Winograd thanked everyone who supports this event held by the ACCESS Committee, including the Signal Department, Fire Department and Police Department. Councilmember Winograd stated that in the State of New Jersey, a couple with special needs is discouraged from getting married. There will be a screening shown at the Ridgewood Library on January 14, 2025 entitled “Patrice,” a documentary that deals with logistical and financial barriers faced by special needs couples who receive state entitlements. Guest speakers include Paul Aronsohn, Diana Stolfo and Matt Arnold. The screening will take place at 6:30 p.m. in the Ridgewood Library Auditorium. Councilmember Winograd indicated that she, Councilmember-Elect Mortimer and Mayor Vagianos attended the pre-Thanksgiving playoff game at Ridgewood High School (RHS). The boys’ soccer team won the game against Clifton with a score of 2-0. She congratulated Aidan McCluskey, Head Coach of the RHS Boys Varsity Team, and the entire soccer team for a great game. Councilmember Reynolds stated that the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee (CSAC) met on November 21st. Several residents expressed concern during the meeting about excessive speeding on Doremus Avenue, between Godwin Avenue and Ackerman Avenue, particularly during school arrival and dismissal times. Sergeant Ray Tarino indicated that a traffic study utilizing radar equipment will be performed on Doremus Avenue to investigate the situation. Residents living on West Saddle River Road attending the meeting also expressed concerns about speeding, citing the recent accident in which a speeding vehicle exiting off of Route 17 ran across a resident’s lawn. There were no injuries, but a tragedy could have occurred if children had been playing in the front yard. Councilmember Reynolds indicated that a traffic study was performed in the West Saddle River Road area in September 2024, which revealed an average vehicular speed of 24.5 miles per hour. However, the Ridgewood Police Department is investigating ways to improve safety in that area, including signage and painted stripes on the roadway. The next CSAC meeting is scheduled for December 19, 2024. Regarding sight triangle obstructions, Councilmember Reynolds stated that many Village residents have complied with warnings received from the Police Department to alleviate the visibility obstructions on their corner properties. However, many residents have not complied, even after two warnings. Therefore, summonses will now be issued to noncompliant residents. Councilmember Reynolds stated that fines for this offense range from $50.00 to $2,000.00, at the discretion of the judge. She thanked all residents who rectified the sight triangle obstructions on their corner properties. Councilmember Reynolds explained what a sight triangle obstruction is. 4 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 4, 2024 Deputy Mayor Perron said that the Planning Board met last night and agreed to minor revisions which were made to the stormwater management ordinance, at the request of Bergen County. This will be considered by the Village Council shortly. An application was also approved for a minor subdivision and lot consolidation at 248 Briarcliff Lane. During the meeting, circular driveways were discussed at length, in an effort to clarify for the Zoning Board of Adjustment when such driveways would be permissible. The Planning Board agreed that a property frontage must be 100 feet wide in order for a circular driveway to be constructed. There was also a discussion about whether circular driveways should be made of permeable surface material, but no final decision was made in this regard. Deputy Mayor Perron reviewed a letter from the Chair of the Planning Board asking the Village Council to consider whether or not permeable materials should be used for all driveways in the future. Deputy Mayor Perron noted that several trees have been planted in Leuning Park on Northern Parkway, and she said that they will flourish beautifully in that location. She stated that a meeting of Green Ridgewood is scheduled for December 5, 2024 at 7:30 p.m. in the Senior Lounge at Village Hall. One topic of discussion during the meeting will be the development of plans for Earth Day, to be held in April 2025. The Open Space Committee will not be meeting during the month of December 2024, but will be meeting in January 2025. Mayor Vagianos stated that sight triangle obstruction offenses have not been enforced rigorously in the past, but will be more strictly enforced in the future. Several accidents have been caused due to poor visibility at intersections, caused by sight triangle obstructions, and he implored everyone with corner properties that have sight triangle obstructions to please take care of eliminating these hazards to safety. Mayor Vagianos thanked Rob Fitch for bringing this topic to the forefront. Regarding the private Christmas Tree lighting at Parisa East Restaurant, scheduled for December 9, 2024, Mayor Vagianos said that he will regretfully not be able to attend this very special event, which is being held for the special needs population in Ridgewood. Mayor Vagianos thanked Kevin Downes, of Downes Tree Service, who has been providing free transportation of the Village’s Christmas tree for the past 16 years. 5. PRESENTATION A. PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT PRESENTATION – VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD PARKS WEBSITE Mr. Kazmark stated that Nancy Bigos, Director of the Parks and Recreation Department, as well as David Wilde of the Parks and Recreation Department, will make a presentation on the recent improvements made to the Village of Ridgewood Parks website. He thanked Councilmember 5 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 4, 2024 Winograd for her advocacy in this matter, as well as Village residents and other staff in the Parks and Recreation Department, who assisted in this endeavor. Ms. Bigos stated that she was very proud to introduce this new informational resource available to the public. She said that each park in Ridgewood has its own “personality” regarding topography, attributes, parking, and recreational amenities. Having all of this information in one place will prove beneficial to Ridgewood residents. One of the action items on the Village’s Master Plan was the design and development of an inventory of all parks and recreational amenities in the Village. Ms. Bigos thanked Councilmember Winograd for providing leadership in this immense project. The new website will provide information regarding amenities offered at each park and will designate whether fields are open or closed, among other features. Members of the Parks, Recreation and Conservation Board, as well as the Open Space Committee, together with volunteers, initiated this program and did a lot of research. Interns from Ridgewood High School, as well as staff of the Parks and Recreation Department and I.T. Department, assisted in this collaboration. Mr. Wilde then gave a demonstration of the new additions to the Village website, which was initiated by launching a facility management system on the Village website. This was accomplished with the assistance of CivicPlus, the Village’s website vendor. Mr. Wilde first showed a drone video compiled by the Police Department, which showed aerial footage of Leuning Park, Kings Pond Park, Monroe Tennis Courts, Bellair Tennis Courts, Citizens Park, Maple Park, Veterans Field, Memorial Park at Van Neste Square, and Habernickel Park. Councilmember Winograd explained how student interns compiled other videos and how the accompanying background music was selected. Mr. Kazmark gave a shout out to the drone team of the Police Department for assembling the drone footage shown this evening, which was accomplished during drone training exercises. Mr. Wilde described the new landing page of Village of Ridgewood Parks website, which lists various parks in the Village and the features each one offers, such as Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility, hours, bathrooms, gardens, playgrounds, children’s activities, athletic fields, parking, seating, nature trails, and other amenities. Slideshows accompany each park listing, and maps designate the location of each park or recreational facility. There are video snippets of drone footage for each location. The map feature also enables the user to access driving directions from their home to the park or recreational facility, through Google Earth. There are also links to relevant documents and websites pertinent to each park or recreational facility, such as the Ridgewood Wildscape Association. In addition, Mr. Wilde indicated that there is a section which tells the history of the particular park or facility, as well as other pertinent information, such as whether dogs are permitted on the grounds and what activities are offered at the park or facility, such as ice skating and walking trails. Another feature is a Village-wide map depicting where all of the parks and recreational 6 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 4, 2024 facilities are located in the Village. Users can click on the individual icons, which will bring them to pertinent information regarding a particular park. Mr. Wilde indicated that the information and pictures can be updated as time goes on. Users can utilize the search bar to search for particular amenities they are looking for, such as playgrounds, athletic fields, or ponds. Deputy Mayor Perron remarked that this aspect of the Village website is valuable for families with children who are considering moving to Ridgewood and also for real estate agents. Mayor Vagianos and Mr. Wilde discussed the facility management tool contained within the Village website, which was developed by CivicPlus and which does not require knowledge of code in order to populate the website with content. Mayor Vagianos thanked Councilmember Winograd for being the catalyst leading to the new and improved Village website. Councilmember Winograd thanked everyone who added to the content of the website, including photographers who contributed pictures. She said that she was very thankful to Ms. Bigos and all of the other team members who worked on this project. B. DONATION OF GARBER SQUARE LANDSCAPE RENOVATION Ms. Bigos introduced Blythe Yost, who is the owner and landscape architect of Rockfield Landscape (formerly R&S Landscaping). Ms. Yost said that the patch of land near the train station, in front of Toastique in Garber Square, used to be maintained by Jacobsen Landscape, but it has not been maintained very well recently. Mr. Kazmark indicated that ownership of the land being discussed is split approximately 60%-40% between private property and land owned by the Village. Ms. Yost stated that the plan is to plant evergreens (boxwood) and other greenery on that strip of land, without creating sight triangle obstructions. Behind the evergreens would be tall white hydrangeas, and there will be seasonal plantings done in front of the evergreens. There is currently adequate irrigation on the site, and Rockfield Landscape will provide supplementary watering as needed. Ms. Bigos indicated that the landscaping is being entirely donated by Rockfield Landscape to the Village, with an estimated value of $6,038.00. Ms. Yost will be responsible for renovation of the site, including soil preparation, plantings, labor and maintenance. All Village Councilmembers expressed how incredibly generous this gift was to the Village by Ms. Yost, and gave their approval for the project to move forward. Mr. Kazmark stated that this evening’s agenda initially contained a presentation from the Engineering Department about possibly moving the bus station to the train station. However, some suggestions were received by residents on the west side of the Village, which will be 7 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 4, 2024 presented to the Engineering Department for review, prior to presentation at a Village Council Work Session in January 2025. 6. DISCUSSION A. RIDGEWOOD WATER 1. AWARD CONTRACT – CONSTRUCTION OF RAW WATER MAINS TO AMES AND WORTENDYKE PFAS TREATMENT FACILITIES Richard Calbi, Director of Ridgewood Water, indicated that this matter pertains to the continued buildout of PFAS treatment facilities, particularly the installation of raw water mains to deliver raw water from seven satellite wells to the Ames and Wortendyke treatment facilities in Wyckoff and Midland Park, respectively, currently under construction. This is the third contract during Phase 1 of the project. Eleven bids were received on November 13, 2024 and were reviewed by Mott MacDonald, the Engineer of record for the project, to prepare construction documents and review bids. It is recommended by Mott MacDonald and Ridgewood Water that this contract be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder, Conquest Construction, Inc., of Hackensack, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $7,477,971.58. Funding is contained in the Ridgewood Water Capital Budget, through an I-Bank project loan. Mr. Calbi stated that this work consists of over 25,000 linear feet of piping throughout Midland Park, Wyckoff, and a small portion of Ridgewood. 2. RECOMMENDATION TO AWARD ADDITIONAL FUNDING – FURNISH CORROSION CONTROL INHIBITOR Mr. Calbi indicated that this matter deals with an additional award to ESC Environmental Inc., of Glenville, New York, in an amount not to exceed $82,000.00. On March 13, 2024, the Village approved the purchase of ESC 532 for corrosion control from the sole source provider, ESC Environmental. At this time, an additional sum of $82,000.00 is required to purchase additional ESC 532 in order to keep corrosion of lead and copper under control in the water distribution piping system for the remainder of 2024. The additional award will bring the total price of the contract to $344,720.00. In October 2024, water distribution/consumption was 30% higher than what was seen in October 2023, particularly due to the dry spell that was experienced this year, and that is the reason why additional corrosion inhibitor chemicals are needed. 8 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 4, 2024  3. AUTHORIZE CHANGE ORDER – PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FOR PFAS TREATMENT PLANT AT RAVINE WELL SITE Mr. Calbi explained that this matter pertains to the authorization of a Change Order to a professional engineering services contract. On April 15, 2021, Ridgewood Water awarded a contract to Mott MacDonald for engineering services for the PFAS treatment facility at the Ravine Well site. At this time, an additional amount of $64,000.00 is required to complete work beyond the original professional engineering services contract scope. It is recommended that Change Order No. 1 be awarded to Mott MacDonald, of Iselin, New Jersey, in the amount of $64,000.00, which will increase the contract total to $560,500.00. Funding is contained in the Ridgewood Water Capital Budget. The services provided by Mott MacDonald will include construction observation, administration, and permit fees for the construction of the Ravine PFAS treatment facility, which is currently under construction. Mr. Calbi stated that some unforeseen delays have occurred with the project, associated with the delivery of the building, and the addition of Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) equipment to control the system. A sewer connection permit must also be obtained from the Northwest Bergen County Utilities Authority. The contractor, Pact Two LLC, has requested a 180-day extension, which will result in a construction duration of 730 days. The original proposal from Mott MacDonald anticipated a construction period of 300 days. Change Order No. 1 includes the additional construction administration services and the sewer connection permit. B. PARKING 1. AWARD CONTRACT – PAYMENT OF PARKING TRANSACTIONS USING MOBILE TECHNOLOGY AND OTHER RELATED SERVICES Robert Rooney, Chief Financial Officer and Parking Utility Director, explained that this matter pertains to the award of a contract for the annual renewal of the current agreement with Parkmobile. In November 2023, the Village Council approved a resolution to enter into a three- year contract with Parkmobile, with a one-year option for renewal. The rates for this second year of the contract are consistent with the rates for 2024. The Parkmobile software is used for paying for parking in the Village. Mr. Kazmark asked Mr. Rooney to talk about the possibility of replacing the parking kiosks in the Central Business District (CBD). Mr. Rooney explained that members of the public have expressed some concerns about the parking kiosks in the CBD, particularly that the buttons on the kiosks are too small and often get stuck, and payments sometimes are not processed in a timely manner. The screens on the kiosks are difficult to read during certain lighting conditions. 9 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 4, 2024 Mr. Rooney said that he has spoken to the vendor that currently provides the kiosks and was informed that there are no replacement kiosks available. He contacted Walker Consultants, which was involved in the parking garage project, and asked them to provide him with a list of vendors that offer different types of kiosks. Mr. Rooney stated that there are several factors to consider when choosing which type of kiosk to use, including the software utilized and the processing fees which are charged. Mr. Rooney indicated that he contacted approximately nine different vendors and requested information about their kiosk products, such as how backups are performed and how fees are charged. While he awaits this information, he has asked Walker Consultants to render a proposal to him delineating ways in which the parking process in the Village can be improved. Mr. Rooney then explained the various features of the Parkmobile app, including when transaction fees are charged, such as when a user is trying to find the location of the parking garage. Transaction fees are less expensive when a user uses a “Wallet” account. Councilmember Winograd added that she receives a disproportionate amount of complaints about the kiosks from disabled individuals, particularly those with poor vision and senior citizens. She asked if the Village could get rid of the kiosks altogether and switch to an online portal, and also asked whether or not the kiosks are leased. Mr. Rooney replied that the Village purchased all of the kiosks in Ridgewood outright, five or six years ago. He indicated that some of the kiosks are now in need of repairs. Councilmember Winograd asked if there was a way that users could inform the kiosk manufacturer when a kiosk is malfunctioning. Mr. Rooney replied that he relies on users informing him that a kiosk is not working properly, and there is also an internal system, within the Parkmobile app, which will notify him if a transaction has failed. Whenever a failed notification is received, the Signal Division is notified to investigate the situation. Mayor Vagianos indicated that there are some businesses in the CBD that employ a staff of ten, with sometimes only five employees working at any given time. He said that these businesses have expressed a desire to purchase only five parking passes, which can be used interchangeably amongst their employees. There was no method available a few years ago to allow this to be done, and Mayor Vagianos asked Mr. Rooney if he could look into this again. Ms. Mailander clarified by stating that Central Business District employee hangtags are currently available, which can be shared by up to three people. Mayor Vagianos said that this poses a problem when employees live in different towns and it is not readily convenient for them to physically share the hangtags. Mayor Vagianos said that he is aware that other municipalities have a mechanism by which eight employees at a time can share the same hangtag. These employees would share the same designated parking spaces, even with different license plate numbers. Mr. Rooney indicated that this is one of the systems that Walker Consultants is researching for him. Councilmember Winograd pointed out that there can be multiple users, with different license plate numbers, using only one account with ParkMobile. 10 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 4, 2024  C. BUDGET 1. VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD – REVIEW OF THIRD QUARTER FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Mr. Rooney stated that this item pertains to a review of the 2024 third quarter financial statements, as of September 30, 2024. Regarding Revenues in the Current Fund, Mr. Rooney pointed out a few items where revenues were lower due to timing factors (bills which go out later in the year, such as sewer use fees and sewer significant discharger fees). However, Mr. Rooney said that most of this revenue has already been collected, so he did not foresee a revenue shortage problem by the end of the year. Mr. Rooney pointed out that all State aid should be received by mid-December, which he anticipates will be 100%, based upon all of the “yes” responses to the Best Practices Inventory. He also pointed out that there will be a shortfall regarding revenue from the cellular tower rental, since the tenant vacated after the 2024 budget was adopted this year. Deputy Mayor Perron asked if the Village was looking for another tenant to rent the cellular tower. Mr. Rooney replied that the issue with renting this particular cellular tower is that it does not have direct access to New York City, as opposed to cell towers on top of water tanks, which are higher and have a broader bandwidth. He is working with Christopher Rutishauser, Village Engineer, to try to find another tenant for the cellular tower in question. Mr. Rooney stated that he is still working through the administrative charges and vehicle fees for outside police services. The hourly rate has been adjusted to entice non-Ridgewood officers to give priority to providing these services in the Village, as opposed to working in other municipalities. Mr. Rooney anticipated that these revenues will increase going forward. Regarding Appropriations in the Current Fund, Mr. Rooney indicated that there is a resolution to be considered by the Village Council this evening to transfer funds for expenditures to accounts where there are deficiencies, which must be made so the Village can meet its final obligations for 2024. Mr. Rooney pointed out the categories to which the transfer of funds will be made, including salaries and wages for overtime for the Fire Department, necessitated by unanticipated military deployments, work-related injuries, personal injuries, and retirements. The overall spend in the Current Fund is at approximately 78% of what was anticipated in the budget. Total Revenues in the Water Utility Fund are at approximately 69% of what was anticipated. Revenues from new cell tower rent was billed in July 2024, and Mr. Rooney anticipates that once these funds are received, revenues will be greater than what was anticipated in the budget. Similarly, fire hydrant services were billed in August and once received, revenues for this line item will be at 100% of what was anticipated. Mr. Rooney said that no transfers were required 11 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 4, 2024 for the Water Utility Fund regarding appropriations. The total spend through the end of September was 67% of what was anticipated. Regarding the Parking Utility Fund Revenues, Mr. Rooney stated that revenues were approximately 71% of what was anticipated in the budget. He pointed out that December is a big month for issuance of parking permits for 2025, so he anticipates that revenues will exceed what was anticipated in the budget. Mr. Rooney said that the Parking Utility Fund Appropriations required one transfer of $1,000.00, resulting from a miscalculation of interest owed. The total spend in the Parking Utility Fund was approximately 67% through September, of what was anticipated in the budget. Councilmember Weitz asked Mr. Rooney if he foresaw any major variances in the budget by the end of the year, based upon the financial statements as of September 30, 2024. Mr. Rooney said that he does not anticipate any “surprises” through the end of the year. The only revenue he is concerned about is the administrative costs for outside services for the Police Department, which is currently at 41% ($206,205.00) of what was anticipated in the budget ($500,000.00). He said that this line item fluctuates every year. The Police Department is now utilizing a service called “Jobs for Blue,” which monitors all billings for outside police services, and Mr. Rooney said that this is working out very well. 2. AWARD CONTRACT – ANIMAL CONTROL SERVICES AND WATERFOWL MANAGEMENT Mr. Kazmark explained that this matter pertains to the awarding of a contract for animal control services and waterfowl management. For the past 15 years, the Village has contracted with Tyco Animal Control for these services, and the current contract will expire in December 2024. The new contract for January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2026 will be for $33,600.00 for the first year and $34,200.00 for the second year, an increase of $50.00 per month for each year. The breakdown will be $28,600.00 for 2025 and $29,200.00 for 2026 for Animal Control and $5,000.00 for waterfowl management for each year. Deputy Mayor Perron asked if the $5,000.00 for waterfowl management is a seasonal service, and Mr. Kazmark replied in the affirmative. 3. AWARD CONTRACT – PREPARATION OF VILLAGE COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES Ms. Mailander indicated that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract for preparation of the Village Council meeting minutes for 2025. Three bid packets were picked up and only one response was received from Irene Alvarez, d/b/a Alvarez Typing. Ms. Mailander indicated that Ms. Alvarez does a great job detailing what goes on at meetings and the minutes are received in 12 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 4, 2024 a timely fashion. It is recommended that this contract be awarded to Irene Alvarez, d/b/a Alvarez Typing, at a price of $9.00 a page, the same price as last year. Councilmember Winograd asked if all of the minutes will be completed by January 6, 2025, and Ms. Mailander replied that all of the minutes will be completed by the time of the Reorganization Meeting on January 6, 2025. 4. AWARD CONTRACT UNDER STATE CONTRACT – BRUSH BANDIT CHIPPER – PARKS DEPARTMENT Mr. Kazmark indicated that this matter pertains to the awarding of a contract under State contract for the purchase of an 18XP Brush Bandit Chipper for the Parks and Recreation Department. This chipper will replace a 2000 PK 237 chipper, which has 2,216 hours of use grinding trees into wood chips and is in need of repairs. It is recommended that this contract be awarded to Northeastern Arborist Supply of Woodland Park, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $79,528.80. 5. AWARD CONTRACT UNDER STATE CONTRACT – NETWORKING EQUIPMENT Mr. Kazmark explained that this item pertains to the awarding of a contract under State contract for the purchase of networking equipment for the Village I.T. Department. This equipment will allow for the replacement and upgrade of existing networking equipment, in order to expand the Village network. It is recommended that this contract be awarded to SHI International Corporation, of Somerset, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $113,458.94. 6. AWARD CONTRACT UNDER COUNTY CONTRACT – JANITORIAL CLEANING SERVICES Mr. Kazmark explained that this is an extension of the existing contract for janitorial cleaning services for four Village facilities (Village Hall, Police Department, Douglas Place building, and the Lester Stable) through the Bergen County Cooperative Purchasing Program. It is recommended that this contract be awarded to Maverick Building Services of Rutherford, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $76,356.12 for 2025. This must be approved by the Village Council, since the contract amount exceeds the statutory limit of purchases made under the County of Bergen Cooperative Purchasing Program. 7. AWARD PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CONTRACT – PHYSICIAN FOR CHILD HEALTH CLINICS Mr. Kazmark stated that this matter pertains to awarding a professional services contract for physician services for the monthly Ridgewood/Glen Rock/Fair Lawn Child Health Conferences to be held in 2025. Dawn Cetrulo, Director of the Health Department, went out for eight quotes 13 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 4, 2024 from physicians, and one reply was received from Dr. Wayne Narucki, who has been working the clinics for the past 15 years. Ms. Cetrulo is recommending that the contract be awarded to Dr. Narucki, who bills at $190.00 an hour, a $10.00 an hour increase, and the first rate increase in three years. This cost will be shared by each town through a Shared Services Agreement, and the maximum amount paid by each town will be $1,950.00. 8. AWARD PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CONTRACT – HUDSON STREET GARAGE – REMEDIAL ACTION PERMIT REPORTING REQUIREMENTS Mr. Kazmark explained that this matter deals with the awarding of a professional services contract for the Hudson Street Garage. The Village’s environmental consultant, First Environment, has been providing, since 2015, a Licensed Site Remediation Professional (LSRP) services to address the contamination that was encountered during the garage’s construction. The award from 2015 has expired, and there is additional work in the future that an LSRP will need to address. First Environment has submitted a proposal for the Remedial Action Permit (RAP) Reporting Requirements. This contract is not to exceed $10,000.00. When questioned by Mayor Vagianos as to what sort of environmental remediation work needed to be done at the garage, Mr. Kazmark replied that there are reporting requirements mandated by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), and this report, which is due shortly, will be prepared by First Environmental. Mayor Vagianos said that he was aware of that, but asked what was actually being reported. He asked if further testing was being performed. Mr. Kazmark said that he will get an answer to Mayor Vagianos’s question from Mr. Rutishauser and report back to him. 9. AUTHORIZE CHANGE ORDER – REPLACEMENT OF UNDERGROUND FUEL STORAGE TANKS AND FUEL SYSTEM – VILLAGE FLEET SERVICES DIVISION Mr. Kazmark stated that this item pertains to the authorization of a Change Order for the work being performed to replace the underground fuel storage tanks and fuel system for the Village Fleet Services Division on Chestnut Street. Out of five registered plan holders eligible to bid, the Village received three bids ranging from a low of $769,299.00 to a high of $1,069,075.00. The contract was awarded to the low bidder, Betts Environmental Services, of Butler, New Jersey, with a quote of $769,299.00. During excavation of the four old fuel tanks, contaminated soil was encountered. An unknown 300-gallon tank, filled with oil and water, was discovered and removed. It was believed that oil leaked from this tank, which contaminated the soil. The approximately 1,000 tons of soil was removed and stored for disposal. The project bid document obtained a quote for contaminated soil disposal at $123.00 per ton. The total for Change Order No. 1 is estimated to be $144,923.44. 14 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 4, 2024  10. AUTHORIZE SHARED SERVICES AGREEMENT – CHILD HEALTH CLINIC (GLEN ROCK AND FAIR LAWN) Mr. Kazmark indicated that this matter deals with the authorization of a Shared Services Agreement between Ridgewood, Glen Rock and Fair Lawn, regarding Child Health Clinics for 2025. This year, Ridgewood will be charging a $500.00 administrative fee to both towns, since Ridgewood is the lead agency. Each municipality will contribute $1,950.00 in this endeavor. 11. AUTHORIZE SHARED SERVICES AGREEMENT – COSMETOLOGY INSPECTIONS (NORWOOD) Mr. Kazmark indicated that this matter deals with the authorization of a Shared Services Agreement between Ridgewood and Norwood for cosmetology inspections. The Village has been providing this service to Norwood since 2020. The contract covers routine inspections, as well as follow up and any after-hours requirements and litigation. The fee charged to Norwood is $44.00 an hour for regular business hours and $66.00 an hour for after-hours calls. This year, Ridgewood will be adding a $500.00 administrative fee, along with the fee for inspection hours, since Ridgewood is the lead agency in this endeavor. 12. AUTHORIZE ANNUAL SERVICE CHARGE – RIDGECREST RIDGEWOOD SENIOR CITIZENS HOUSING CORPORATION, INC. Mr. Kazmark stated that this matter pertains to the authorization of an annual service charge to the Ridgecrest Senior Citizens Housing Corporation, Inc. (RSCHC). There is an agreement between the Village and the RSCHC that exempts the RSCHC from paying property taxes. In lieu of paying taxes, the RSCHC pays an annual service charge to the Village for municipal services. This charge is 6.28% of the annual gross revenues, plus the cost of sanitary sewers and solid waste collection and disposal. 13. AUTHORIZE REFUND OF TAX OVERPAYMENT – 516 HILLCREST ROAD Mr. Kazmark indicated that this matter pertains to the authorization for a refund of tax overpayment regarding property located at 516 Hillcrest Road. Both the property owner and mortgage holder paid the added assessment, resulting in the overpayment. A refund is to be made to Corelogic, the mortgage holder. 15 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 4, 2024  14. REQUEST APPROVAL OF BUDGET AMENDMENT – FIREHOUSE SUBS PUBLIC SAFETY FOUNDATION GRANT Mr. Kazmark explained that this item deals with approval of a budget amendment resolution that permits the Village to add grant revenue and appropriation to the 2024 budget. These funds were received from a Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation grant in the amount of $29,830.00. These funds will be used to purchase four Argus Thermal Imaging Camera Kits for the Fire Department. 15. 2024 BUDGET APPROPRIATION TRANSFER Mr. Rooney explained that this is a request for transfers of funding from departments that have excess budget funds to departments that have deficiencies in accounts for expenditures. These budget transfers are made so that the Village can meet its financial obligations for the current year. D. POLICY 1. PLACEMENT OF NARCAN IN AED BOXES IN THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD Mr. Kazmark explained that this matter deals with a resolution to support an initiative to place Narcan (formerly known as Naloxone) at Automated External Defibrillator (AED) boxes in the Village. The boxes to house the Narcan will be purchased through the opioid settlement funds. Similar resolutions have been passed in other Bergen County municipalities. E. OPERATIONS 1. AUTHORIZE SIGNATURE FOR VARIOUS DOCUMENTATION – REPLACEMENT OF UNDERGROUND FUEL STORAGE TANKS AND FUEL SYSTEM – FLEET SERVICES DIVISION Mr. Kazmark stated that this item pertains to a signature authorization for various documentation dealing with replacement of the underground fuel storage tanks and fuel system at the Fleet Services Division on Chestnut Street. During replacement of the underground tanks, some materials will need to be exported to an approved facility. An official from the Village must be available at the site to execute and sign various manifests, regulatory permit applications, and other documentation related to the project’s construction and disposal of the contaminated material. It is recommended that Christopher Rutishauser, Village Engineer, be assigned as the Village signatory. 16 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 4, 2024  2. DECLARE PROPERTY SURPLUS – OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT Mr. Kazmark indicated that this item deals with a request to declare property surplus in the Office of Emergency Management. The property consists of a 1999 Seamco hitch and trailer landscape trailer, which is no longer being used, and the cost of repairs exceeds the value of the trailer. There are no other Village departments that can use the trailer, so it will be declared as surplus and sold on govdeals.com. 3. DECLARE PROPERTY SURPLUS – I.T. EQUIPMENT Mr. Kazmark explained that this is a request to declare property surplus in the I.T. Department. This property consists of various desktops, monitors, printers, servers, an iPad, and laptops. This property is either no longer needed or unusable, and all hard drives and memory have been removed for separate disposal. 4. ENDORSE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT APPLICATION – LINING SEWER PIPES IN DESIGNATED COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT STREETS Mr. Kazmark explained that this matter pertains to the endorsement of a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application for the lining of sanitary sewer pipes on CDBG- eligible streets in the Village of Ridgewood. The lining will extend the life of the pipes. The amount of the grant being applied for is $450,000.00. Councilmember Winograd stated that she lives on one of the eligible streets and offered her support in any way possible. Mr. Kazmark replied that he will reach out to Councilmember Winograd if any community support is needed. He indicated that this is the first time the Village has applied for such a grant, and he will be working with Millennium Strategies in this regard. 7. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC Andrea Delmonico and Terri Delmonico stated that they are new business owners in Ridgewood. The Delmonicos started Abilities Therapy Network in 2010 and initially began their business in Midland Park. They recently moved their business operations to Ridgewood, at 190 Franklin Avenue. The business is comprised of Andrea Delmonico, who is an occupational therapist; her mother, Terri, a speech therapist; Nicole Psomas and Jennifer Norton, physical therapists; and Dr. Jessica Haftek, a psychologist. The Abilities Therapy Network offers pediatric therapy to children with various disabilities, developmental delays, or challenges with activities of daily living. Mayor Vagianos thanked the Delmonicos for bringing much-needed services to the Village of Ridgewood. 17 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 4, 2024 Rurik Halaby, a Ridgewood resident for 55 years, stated that he cannot recall such an impressive and heartening Village Council meeting as the one held this evening. He praised the Village Councilmembers for their excellent organization, efficiency, and caring nature. He also gave kudos to Mr. Calbi and Ms. Bigos for their valuable contributions to the meeting. Suzanne Ruane, a resident of Ridgewood, suggested that Andrea and Terri Delmonico join the “Special Needs Moms and Dads” Facebook page and advertise their services, since there is a large special needs population in Ridgewood seeking services such as those offered by the Abilities Therapy Network. Ms. Ruane also thanked the Village Council for taking action on repairing the Kingsbridge Lane Pedestrian Bridge. The bridge has now been removed, and should be reinstalled by the spring. There were no further comments from the public. 8. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION Ms. Mailander read Resolution #24-373 to go into Closed Session: 18 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 4, 2024 9. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilmember Winograd, seconded by Councilmember Reynolds, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Regular Public Work Session was adjourned at 9:06 p.m. ____________________________________ Paul Vagianos Mayor ____________________________________ Heather A. Mailander Village Clerk 19 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 4, 2024