Village Council Meeting

A SPECIAL PUBLIC BUDGET 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 JANUARY 22, 2025 AT 5:00 P.M. 1. CALL TO ORDER – OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS ACT – ROLL CALL – FLAG SALUTE Mayor Vagianos called the meeting to order at 5:08 p.m. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. At roll call the following were present: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron, Weitz, Winograd, and Mayor Vagianos. Also present were Keith Kazmark, Village Manager; Heather Mailander, Village Clerk; Robert Rooney, Chief Financial Officer; Olivia Andreula, Accounting Assistant; and Stephen Sanzari, Treasurer/Assistant Chief Financial Officer. Mayor Vagianos led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag. 2. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC There were no public comments. 3. INTRODUCTION OF 2025 BUDGET PROCESS – VILLAGE MANAGER AND CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Mr. Kazmark began by thanking Mr. Rooney, Ms. Andreula, and Mr. Sanzari for all of the work they have been doing since last summer in compiling the required information for this preliminary budget meeting in 2025. Mr. Kazmark then explained the yearly budget process. Mr. Rooney initially met with all Village Department Directors in the fall of 2024, to review the requests from each department. Mr. Kazmark then became involved in the budget process at the beginning of 2025, attempting to identify the “needs” and “wants” on each departmental request list. Several iterations of the budget have been done already. Mr. Kazmark indicated that the Police Department was originally scheduled to present their budget requests this evening, but this will be rescheduled, as Police Chief Forest Lyons was not feeling well and could not attend the meeting. 4. DISCUSSION ITEMS A. REVIEW OF DEPARTMENTAL BUDGETS AND CAPITAL BUDGETS Mr. Kazmark indicated that departmental budgets and Capital Budgets will be considered this evening, including the Fire Department, Office of Emergency Management, the Ridgewood 1 Village Council Special Public Budget Meeting January 22, 2025 Public Library, Management Information Systems (M.I.S.), Municipal Court, Public Defender, Health Department, Animal Control, Tax Assessor and Building Department. On February 3, 2025, budget requests will be considered from the Finance Office, Tax Collector’s Office, Engineering Department, Planning Board, Traffic and Signal, Building Maintenance, Water Pollution Control Facility, Fleet Services, Yard Waste, and Recycling and Streets. Budget requests will also be considered from Ridgewood Water, Solid Waste and Recycling, Village Clerk’s Office, Village Manager’s Office, Village Council, and Village Attorney. Discussions about various Shared Services Agreements will also be held at that time, as well as discussions regarding capital funds, debt service, and other financial areas. On February 19, 2025, budget requests will be considered from the Parks and Recreation Department and Police Department. On February 27, 2025, a final Capital Budget will be presented before the Village Council, and the overall tax rate impact will be discussed at that time as well. Mr. Kazmark indicated that Mr. Rooney and the Village Auditor are currently in the process of closing out the books for 2024, so the year-end figures are not yet available to enable the Village Council to determine the overall tax rate impact at this time. The date of March 3, 2025 has been reserved, if an additional budget meeting is required. At this time, it is anticipated that the actual budget will be introduced on March 12, 2025 and that the budget will be formally adopted on April 9, 2025. 1. FIRE DEPARTMENT Fire Chief John Judge presented the requests for the Fire Department Operating Budget. Chief Judge stated that there were two retirements in the Fire Department in 2024. One fireman has already been hired, to replace one of the retirees, and starts employment tomorrow, and the department is desirous of hiring one more fireman. One Lieutenant and one Captain have been promoted. Chief Judge explained that there was a staffing shortage in the Fire Department in 2024. They had foreseen one retirement and one military deployment, but unforeseen circumstances led to a staffing shortage of between four to six personnel. These circumstances include a second military deployment, numerous workers’ compensation issues (including injuries to a fireman who has been out of work for almost a year), and four employees who sustained off-the-job, significant personal injuries. These circumstances resulted in increased overtime in 2024. Councilmember Weitz said that he wanted to confirm that the funds allocated in 2024 for the Fire Department amounted to $6.5 million, but the actual spend was $6.8 million due to unforeseen increased overtime, and Chief Judge replied in the affirmative. Chief Judge indicated that due to what occurred in 2024, there is a budget request for increased overtime in 2025 of $300,000.00, compared to the $250,000.00 requested in 2024. Mr. Kazmark 2 Village Council Special Public Budget Meeting January 22, 2025 asked Chief Judge when he estimated the Fire Department to have full staffing. Chief Judge replied that he expects the Fire Department to be fully staffed by April 1, 2025, as soon as a new fireman is hired to replace the employee who just retired. Councilmember Weitz asked Chief Judge why there was an increased salary request, if the retiring staff members were making more money than the new hires. Chief Judge replied that more money will be needed to cover salaries, based upon contractual obligations. Mayor Vagianos asked Chief Judge if the increased overtime request of $300,000.00 was necessary, since full-time employees will be working as of April 2025. Chief Judge replied that the new fireman who was hired is starting the academy in January, and probably won’t be working full time until around August or September of 2025. He expects to be short-staffed by at least two members for half of 2025. Mr. Kazmark stated that both the Police and Fire Departments attempt to fill positions well before anticipated retirements occur, particularly because new recruits for both departments must undergo extensive training, both at the academy and in-house, before becoming full-fledged members of either the Police or Fire Department and working full shifts. There are currently six volunteer firefighters in the Fire Department. Councilmember Weitz asked about the increased request for “Other Expenses.” Chief Judge explained that the Public Employees Occupational Safety and Health (PEOSH) accounts actually increased by $2,700.00. The PEOSH standards for firefighters contain requirements for the organization, training, and personal protective equipment for Fire Departments. These standards are enforced by the New Jersey Department of Labor & Workforce Development and New Jersey Department of Health, and all Fire Departments must abide by these standards. Mr. Kazmark asked Chief Judge to highlight some of the increases in budget allocations that he is requesting for the Fire Department. Chief Judge said that a large part of “029” (Contractual Services) is anticipated revenue from Emergency Medical Services. As this line item is increased, the amount needed to pay the billing company also increases. For “040” (Training), this decreased, because he is able to rotate this expense and other expenses every few years. Last year, Emergency Management Technician (EMT) Core Refresher Training was required for all first responders (EMS, Police and Fire). This training must be done every three years. Other expenses for supplies and aerial maintenance on the truck are staggered every few years. Mr. Rooney added that the 7% budget request increase for contractual services is based upon an increase in revenues that were anticipated during the year. Billing collections have proven to be more effective, accurate and timely, ever since switching to the billing vendor. In 2025, Mr. Rooney anticipates that he will be able to utilize those additional funds to offset increased costs. 3 Village Council Special Public Budget Meeting January 22, 2025 Councilmember Winograd asked for confirmation that the Fire Department currently has 47 employees, with two firemen either recently hired or to be hired, as well as six volunteer firefighters. Chief Judge said that there is a total of 54 employees in the Fire Department. Deputy Mayor Perron asked what the column entitled “Other” to the right of “Salaries and Wages” represented. Chief Judge said that this column represented changes in holiday pay. Mr. Rooney explained the formula by which holiday pay is calculated, per contractual obligations. Councilmember Winograd asked what the stipend covers (Fire/EMT Stipend 017). Chief Judge replied that all EMTs get a stipend, also due to contractual obligations. Mayor Vagianos asked what the overall increase is in the Fire Department budget when compared to the actual spend in 2024. Chief Judge said that he believed it was approximately .3%, stating that the entire budget increased by only $1,800.00. Councilmember Weitz said that he assumed that the budget requests this year for the Fire Department did not compromise the safety or cause additional risks for the firefighters. Chief Judge said that he was confident the requests he is making will cover everything the department needs for 2025. Deputy Mayor Perron asked if police personnel and EMTs receive their training at the same time as the firefighters, and whether or not the figures listed in category 040 contained the cost of training the police personnel and EMTs, as well as the firefighters. Chief Judge said that the Fire Department covered the cost of training police personnel, firefighters and EMTs in 2024. He explained that the Fire Department budget covers EMS supplies for the entire Village as well. The Fire Department also covers the EMT Core Refresher Training. Chief Judge said that he spoke with Police Chief Forest Lyons and they agreed that, in three years, these costs will be covered under the Police Department budget. Deputy Mayor Perron asked about the items listed under “015,” which details a list of personnel whom she assumes will be performing some aspect of fire prevention. She asked about the statement that read, “The FMBA contract states that a Fire Inspector shall receive an annual stipend of $1,200.00 per year.” Deputy Mayor Perron pointed out, however, that the budget request is in the amount of $1,400.00. Chief Judge said that the figure of $1,200.00 was an error and he neglected to change it. The contract used to stipulate a stipend of $1,200.00 per year, but the new contract calls for a $1,400.00 stipend in 2025. Chief Judge then reviewed the requests for the Fire Department Capital Budget. Mr. Kazmark pointed out that there is a six-year projection for the priorities of the Fire Department. Chief Judge said that he listed his requests in order of priority. The first one for $575,000.00 will go into a Sinking Fund to eventually cover fire engine replacement. He said that their fire engine is 4 Village Council Special Public Budget Meeting January 22, 2025 a 2003 model, and standards recommend that fire engines be replaced every 20 years (15 years as a front line apparatus and five years as a back apparatus). There is currently $250,000.00 in the Sinking Fund and, unfortunately, since the Covid pandemic, the cost of engines has skyrocketed. The cost of an engine ten years ago was approximately $380,000.00. Today, the cost of an engine is approximately $1.1 million to $1.3 million. A ladder truck purchased for $900,000.00 in 2012 costs approximately $1.8 million to $2.1 million at the current time. Chief Judge said that he is working with Mr. Kazmark and Mr. Rooney to formulate a 20-year apparatus projection. His priority right now is to replace the current fire engine that is 22 years old. Even if ordered today, it would still take three years to be delivered. Deputy Mayor Perron asked if the fire engine should be ordered right away. Chief Judge replied that the money needs to be fully appropriated before a new engine can be ordered. Deputy Mayor Perron asked Chief Judge to explain his five-year projection. Mr. Kazmark explained that the only two Sinking Funds that are established in the Village are in the Parks and Recreation Department (for the Maple Park Turf field), and in the Fire Department, in anticipation of needing to replace the current fire engine. The sum of $250,000.00 was allocated for this purpose in the 2024 Capital Budget, and this year, the Fire Department is requesting that more money be appropriated to the Sinking Fund. The money in the Sinking Fund will eventually be used to purchase a new fire engine. Mr. Kazmark indicated that he is having a meeting tomorrow morning with all Department Directors to discuss their Capital Budget requests. Mr. Rooney concurred with Mr. Kazmark’s statements. He said that the only problem is that the vendor for the fire truck requires a purchase order, which needs to be funded completely. The firetruck cannot be ordered until sufficient funds are in the Sinking Fund for that purpose. Councilmember Weitz asked if interest is being earned on funds in the Sinking Fund, while money is being appropriated each year for the purchase of a new firetruck. Mr. Rooney replied in the affirmative. He stated that the Village is limited in what it can invest in, so the money is currently held in a cash management plan with the State, which has a higher interest rate than the banks. When questioned by Councilmember Weitz, Mr. Sanzari stated that the current interest rate is approximately 3.8%. Councilmember Weitz asked how much money was allocated for the Sinking Fund for the Fire Department for 2024. Mr. Rooney pointed to the $250,000.00 figure in the column entitled “Amount Appropriated in Prior Year,” and stated that this was the amount allocated in 2024. Mayor Vagianos stated that the Sinking Fund was initiated last year. The existing firetruck is 22 years old and its recommended lifespan is only 20 years. Therefore, the amount to be allocated to the Sinking Fund in the next couple of years will be more than double the amount that was appropriated in 2024. In this way, after a few years, the amount of $1.4 million will have been appropriated and the new firetruck can be ordered. 5 Village Council Special Public Budget Meeting January 22, 2025 Councilmember Weitz noted that with the prior appropriation of $250,000.00 in 2024 and the requested appropriation this year of $575,000.00, that will bring the balance in the Sinking Fund to $825,000.00, leaving the need for an additional appropriation of $575,000.00 in 2026. Mr. Rooney clarified that the request made by Chief Judge for the Fire Department Sinking Fund in 2024 was much higher than the $250,000.00 eventually allocated. Councilmember Weitz asked where the $575,000.00 would come from. There was a brief discussion between Councilmember Weitz and Mr. Rooney, in which Mr. Rooney explained that although a $575,000.00 request is being made by Chief Judge for 2025, a smaller sum will most likely be appropriated. The initial Capital Budget for the Village starts out at $7.5 million, and the capital requests for 2025 exceed $12 million, so more reductions will need to be made. Mr. Kazmark added that some of the “wish list” requests made by Chief Judge in 2024, which were not appropriated, were fulfilled through the obtaining of grants sought by the Fire Department. Chief Judge stated that the Fire Department has received five grants over the past two years totaling approximately $450,000.00, which has significantly reduced the budget requests made by the Fire Department this year. The grant monies were used to purchase firefighter gear, thermal imaging cameras, and air packs. While realizing the Capital Budget for the Village is $7.5 million, Councilmember Weitz added that safety should not be compromised when it comes to first responders’ requests. Mr. Kazmark stated that there is currently $5 million in pending grant applications for the Village, and these possible grants have been compared to capital requests for 2025. He indicated that there are no capital requests for items which would be covered by these grants. Some of the grants are matching grants, where any shortfall will be offset by Village funds, such as for the playground at Habernickel Family Park. Mayor Vagianos asked Chief Judge what the condition of the current 22-year-old firetruck is, and Chief Judge replied that it was serviced about a year ago. At one point during 2024, there were two firetrucks that were out of commission. There are four firetrucks altogether: two primary engines and two backup engines. However, whenever there is an additional emergency call, such as a fire or a mutual aid call, the backup engines are used. There was a discussion between Chief Judge, Mayor Vagianos, and Mr. Kazmark about the lead time for ordering a new firetruck (18 to 24 months) and how long it would take for funding to be fully appropriated (approximately 4 years). Councilmember Weitz asked if the used fire engines are resold, and Chief Judge replied that it depends upon the condition of the fire engines and that usually only $5,000.00 to $10,000.00 is realized from such a sale. Mr. Kazmark said that sometimes trade-in offers are possible. Chief Judge then reviewed two other budget requests. He said that he makes a standard request of $20,000.00 every year for tools and equipment, so that money is available in case some equipment or tools break. He mentioned that it costs $9,000.00 for just one thermal imaging camera, but that cost was fortunately covered by grant monies. Upon questioning by Deputy 6 Village Council Special Public Budget Meeting January 22, 2025 Mayor Perron, Chief Judge explained that thermal imaging cameras enable firefighters to see through smoke, so that people and hot spots can be located quickly. Chief Judge stated that the third priority on his list of requests is to replace car #38, a Tour Commander primary vehicle, that is used every day. Councilmember Weitz remarked that $100,000.00 seems a lot to request for this type of vehicle. Chief Judge received a quote for a Tahoe the other day for $58,000.00. When lights and sirens are installed on the vehicle, the cost increases by $26,000.00 to $28,000.00. When graphics are added, the price increases by approximately $3,000.00, and every mobile radio that is added to the vehicle costs between $9,000.00 and $10,000.00 each. Chief Judge added that there are currently three mobile radios in the existing vehicle. A similar vehicle with the installation of mobile radios, lights, sirens and graphics would cost approximately $120,000.00. He indicated that they attempt to reuse whatever equipment they can salvage, to be installed in new vehicles. When questioned, Chief Judge replied that the vehicle to be replaced could be used for another department. Deputy Mayor Perron asked Chief Judge what the benefit would be of item #5, which was a security system request. Lieutenant John Chuck replied that the security system used by the Fire Department employs very old technology and is not effective at deterring break-ins. Their goal is to connect with the system used by the Village. In this way, the firefighters would have access cards for the network system, to be used to gain access to Ridgewood Water offices and the Lester Stable, for example, during an emergency. The security system cameras would aid firefighters in previewing accident scenes as well. Maintenance costs would be shared throughout departments. 2. OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT (OEM) Police Lieutenant John Chuck and Fire Chief John Judge, Deputy OEM Coordinators/Special Operations, presented the Operating Budget requests for the Office of Emergency Management, since Jeremy Kleiman, OEM Coordinator, is presently out of the country. Chief Judge said that salaries and wages for 2025 were comparable to 2024. The actual spend as of 12/31/24 was low, but they are still processing fourth quarter 2024 stipends (which have not been added to the actual spend figure). Request increases, when compared to 2024, include Maintenance and Other Equipment (026). These funds will be used to service the generator and to pay for the variable message board service contract. Lieutenant Chuck indicated that the large generator has not been serviced in years, so major maintenance will be needed. Afterwards, maintenance will cost significantly less. The white variable message board (as opposed to the orange message board purchased by the Health Department from grant monies) is used as part of a Shared Services Agreement. The maintenance contract for the Bluetooth and Wi-Fi (cellular data) was inadvertently not purchased 7 Village Council Special Public Budget Meeting January 22, 2025 at the time the message board was purchased, so the message board maintenance will cost $2,500.00. This will enable the user of the message board to quickly change the message on the board remotely. In addition, three different messages can be programmed remotely and looped to display for certain time periods. Chief Judge indicated that there is an increase in “029.” He said that the emergency alert subscription fee has increased, because there are now more people signed up for the reverse 911 system. Mr. Kazmark explained that after the boil water advisory, contact information from Village departments was imported into the reverse 911 system. Lieutenant Chuck stated that the budget requests in 029 also include a lease agreement through Enterprise for a new pickup truck, which was purchased by the OEM this year. They do not want to use the large Emergency Services trucks for transportation during training or short deployments, since a lot of gas would be wasted. Leasing this vehicle through Enterprise will help to reduce capital costs. When the leased vehicle is returned to Enterprise, the Village is given a discount on the lease of the next vehicle. Lieutenant Chuck pointed out that a lot of things on a vehicle begin to break down after it turns six or seven years old, so there are advantages to leasing a vehicle. Mr. Kazmark said that he is trying to get all Village departments to follow this particular model (of leasing cars rather than purchasing them), even though the initial layout of funds is substantial. Regarding “030,” Lieutenant Chuck indicated that there was a large increase for their emergency stockpile (provisions for employees). He said that there is a $15,000.00 request for MREs (Meal Ready-to-Eat food rations) and sanitary supplies. In the event of an apocalypse, the department would be able to feed 30 employees three meals a day, for 30 days, or 60 employees two meals a day, for 45 days. This would enable the employees to work and not become fatigued due to lack of calorie intake. These MREs have a shelf life of five years. Lieutenant Chuck pointed out that the OEM Department had a difficult time finding sanitary supplies during the Covid pandemic. The stockpile of food rations could be given to staff in the Public Works Department, if they have been out on the road all night plowing and don’t have time to cook a meal. Councilmember Winograd asked what the breakdown of the $15,000.00 would be, with respect to the MREs and sanitary supplies. Lieutenant Chuck said that it was approximately $12,000.00+ for the MREs and about $2,000.00 for the sanitary supplies. Councilmember Winograd asked if other municipalities stockpiled rations, and Lieutenant Chuck replied in the affirmative. Mr. Kazmark asked if the MREs were required under the Emergency Management Plan that the Village submitted to Bergen County. Lieutenant Chuck replied that there is a requirement that the OEM has to be able to provide food for weather emergencies and state of emergencies. Mayor Vagianos asked Lieutenant Chuck to give the Village Councilmembers an example of a scenario where the MREs would be required. Lieutenant Chuck said that the MREs would be 8 Village Council Special Public Budget Meeting January 22, 2025 useful during a hurricane, when Ridgewood is literally cut into thirds, during flooding conditions. He recalled the severe flooding in Asheville, North Carolina, after Hurricane Helene, during which the people did not receive food supplies for 30 days. Mayor Vagianos asked how much of these rations were used during Hurricane Floyd in 1999. Lieutenant Chuck stated that during Hurricane Floyd, the MREs were used to feed people who sought refuge at the safe resource centers in Ridgewood (both middle schools and high school), and also to feed the “troops.” He estimated that approximately a pallet full of food was used (about 48 cases). He said that this was about a third of the supply that he is requesting this year. Chief Judge said that the MREs would be used to feed firefighters, policemen and public works employees in similar situations. Lieutenant Chuck added that all of the MRE rations were gone in a day after Hurricane Floyd, and then the police had to deliver a generator to a local restaurant, so that the chefs could cook meals for the emergency responders. Chief Judge said that in order to save costs, the OEM storage space in Glen Rock, which cost the Village over $7,000.00 a year, was closed and storage was found in Ridgewood. Deputy Mayor Perron asked if any other type of rations or alternative food sources would be less expensive, if the food was not perishable. Lieutenant Chuck replied that there are cheaper versions of prepackaged meals, but the MREs are basically non-perishable since they are military-grade food rations. Mayor Vagianos said that he agreed with Councilmember Weitz about not compromising safety with respect to this year’s budget appropriations, but he asked if this volume of stockpiled rations has been used since Hurricane Floyd. Lieutenant Chuck said that this volume has not been used since Hurricane Floyd, but that hurricane occurred 25 years ago. He said that the Office of Emergency Management is long overdue to stockpile these emergency food rations. Chief Judge added that the role of the police and fire personnel, as well as OEM and EMS personnel, is to prepare to support everyone in an emergency. Mr. Rooney suggested that this line item be highlighted and revisited at a later time during the budget meetings, and everyone agreed. Regarding the Capital Budget requests for the Office of Emergency Management, Lieutenant Chuck stated that during large events when Village officials and command staff are gathered together, an Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is usually formed in the conference/meeting room at the Police Station, which can only accommodate approximately 12-14 people. With the recent restructuring of the EMS building at 33 Douglas Place, Lieutenant Chuck believes that this building would serve as a better location for the EOC, since it is equipped with its own generator and sewage system, affords adequate parking, and is not located in a flood zone. However, the computer system at 33 Douglas Place is antiquated and not yet networked with the Village computer system. The computer equipment needs to be upgraded, in order to comply with State mandates. In addition, some construction needs to be done to the building. The new EOC space could double as a training room for Village employees. 9 Village Council Special Public Budget Meeting January 22, 2025 Deputy Mayor Perron noted that the building renovation would be spread out over four years. Lieutenant Chuck stated that building renovations would cover just maintenance of the building. Chief Judge added that there are some unused funds currently in the OEM Capital Budget that can be used for the renovations to the new EOC room, and that is the reason why they are only asking for $100,000.00 this year. Lieutenant Chuck stated that the OEM Department received an older, large rescue truck from Bergen County HAZMAT. This vehicle does not have air conditioning that works, and the interior of the vehicle gets very hot from the diesel engine. They took all of the emergency response equipment, which had been stored in two or three trailers, and installed everything into the rescue truck. During a fire, this truck is used to set up heating tents for the firefighters on a cold night. This vehicle, which is a 1999 Diehl truck with low mileage, needs some upgrades. It has some mechanical issues, and OEM would like to hook up their generator to the truck, which will require some electrical work upgrades. Councilmember Weitz asked why $25,000.00 worth of upgrades should be invested in a 25-year- old truck. Chief Judge said that a new similar truck would cost approximately $1.5 million. Lieutenant Chuck said that the department can get more years out of the donated truck if these upgrades were made, since the engine itself is very sound and the body is clean. The air conditioning needs to be fixed in the truck as well. Chief Judge said that the third request is being removed from their list of requests for OEM. Mr. Kazmark pointed out that the Village is currently discussing with Glen Rock a complete upgrade to the radio communication system, including the infrastructure on the poles. Rich Tarleton, Director of the Signal Division, is negotiating with two potential vendors who can provide the necessary upgrades. As part of the upgrades to the communication system, portable radios will need to be purchased. There are some portable radios that have been ordered for the Police Department, but not yet received. The cost for these radios will be paid out of the 2024 Capital Budget. Discussion about the purchase of more radios will be tabled, until a vendor is chosen and discussions have been completed with the Borough of Glen Rock. The cost for the portable radios will be borne by the Village, and the cost for the communication system buildout will be shared by the Village and Glen Rock. When questioned by Councilmember Winograd, Mr. Kazmark replied that the encryption system software will also be part of this project. Once the communication system is upgraded, the current radios used in the Village will become obsolete, but there will hopefully be some trade-in value for some of them. Some of the older portable radios can be used by the Graydon Pool staff for the summer, as well as by the students volunteering for the Teens in Emergency Service (TIES) program. Mayor Vagianos asked what the overall increase is in the OEM Operating Budget, as compared to last year. Lieutenant Chuck replied that there is approximately a 20% increase from last year (about $43,000.00) when combining both the Operating and Capital Budgets. 10 Village Council Special Public Budget Meeting January 22, 2025 Councilmember Weitz stated that spending $100,000.00 for the EOC and $285,000.00 for renovations to the EMS building at Douglas Place seems a bit much. Chief Judge stated that some of the building improvements include the heating system on the roof. Councilmember Winograd pointed out that the Office of Emergency Management is an important element of public safety, and it would create problems if there was “business interruption” due to some type of unforeseen disaster or emergency. While she does feel that the capital requests are a “tad too high,” she also believes that delaying needed improvements to the often-neglected EMS building will cause problems in the event of an emergency. 3. PUBLIC LIBRARY Lorri Steinbacher, Director of the Ridgewood Public Library, and Rebecca Rubenstein, Treasurer of the Ridgewood Public Library, presented their requests for both the Operating and Capital Budgets. Mr. Kazmark reminded the Village Councilmembers that the amount of the Ridgewood Library budget is statutory. Ms. Steinbacher said that the 5% increase in their budget will benefit the residents of Ridgewood, since the funds will go directly towards materials and building improvements. She stated that the Ridgewood Library circulation was approximately 300,000 this past year and, for the first time ever, electronic materials comprised a third of their circulation. When questioned by Mayor Vagianos, Ms. Steinbacher stated that the 5% increase is the minimum statutory requirement over last year. Upon questioning by Mr. Kazmark, Ms. Steinbacher confirmed that the salaries and wages in the Library Operating Budget have been thoroughly vetted and reviewed by the Library Board of Trustees. Councilmember Weitz added that the reason the Village is able to appropriate the required statutory amount in the Library budget is because of all the fundraising done by volunteers and the Friends of the Library. Ms. Rubenstein then gave an overview of the requests regarding the Library Operating Budget. She stated that she was just re-elected to her second term as Trustee of the Ridgewood Library. This is her sixth year as Trustee and third year as Treasurer. Ms. Rubenstein stated that New Jersey municipal libraries are legally entitled to a minimum appropriation based on what is called a “one-third of a mil rate,” calculated as 33 cents on each $1,000.00 of equalized value of all assessable property in the Village. She stated that “equalized value” is the estimated market value of a home, as compared to the assessed value, which is the value of a home reflected on the tax rolls. Ms. Rubenstein indicated that the Library’s minimum appropriation has increased over the past few years, as the market value of Ridgewood homes has continued to increase. The appropriation is 5% higher than it was in 2024. The Library supplements its budget through money raised by its fundraising organizations. These donations pay for all cultural and 11 Village Council Special Public Budget Meeting January 22, 2025 educational programming, databases, museum passes, selective technology and building improvements. Ms. Rubenstein said that in 2025, the Library will celebrate its first full year of providing passport services to the community. It is estimated that over 1,000 passport applications will be processed in 2025, resulting in approximately $54,000.00 in gross revenue ($27,000.00 in net revenue). The Library also receives rental income from the two tenants, Northwest Bergen Central Dispatch and Bohler Engineering, at the Pease Building. In 2025, there will be approximately $78,000.00 in net revenue, from rental income for the Pease Building, into the Ridgewood Library’s Operating Budget. The bulk of the Ridgewood Library’s 5% appropriation increase in 2025 will cover a 2.5% union-negotiated salary increase and significantly higher healthcare benefit costs, due to a 16.3% rate/premium increase. Ms. Rubenstein explained that a new full-time employee requires a family health insurance plan, and that this new employee had replaced an employee who had waived insurance coverage. Technology costs have increased, due to absorbing into the Library Operating Budget a previous capital request for new computers. Building and ground expenses have also increased. The Library would like to update both sets of malfunctioning automatic doors and address issues with their two elevators. The Library is requesting a $271,800.00 Capital Budget to address critical facility needs. Their top priority is renovating the first floor bathrooms, which are outdated and urgently require modernization. Their second priority is updating the smaller second floor bathrooms to improve functionality and accessibility. Ms. Rubenstein stated that the carpeting in the entire reference area, which spans most of the second floor, needs to be replaced since it has significant wear. Ms. Rubenstein stated that the Ridgewood Library plans to launch a fundraising campaign to support renovations on both floors of the library. They anticipate the majority of funding to come from private contributions. She said that the aforesaid improvements will benefit the entire community. She concluded by thanking the Village Councilmembers for their consideration. Ms. Steinbacher added that in the years that the Ridgewood Library’s “one-third of a mil” has not met their operating needs, the Village has always supported the Ridgewood Library’s operational needs. Councilmember Mortimer echoed Councilmember Weitz’s comments about how awesome the Ridgewood Library is. He said that his wife and daughter are at the library almost every day, and he praised them for initiating the new passport program. Councilmember Mortimer asked why there was a cost by “patron service fees” of $116,000.00. Ms. Rubenstein replied that this represents salaries for two employees who run the program, as well as administrative costs to run the program, such as postage. There was a discussion between Councilmember Mortimer, Ms. 12 Village Council Special Public Budget Meeting January 22, 2025 Steinbacher and Ms. Rubenstein regarding the different types of health insurance plans available to Ridgewood Library employees. Family plans are particularly costly for the library. Deputy Mayor Perron asked if the repairs to the leaking cupola can wait until 2029. Ms. Steinbacher replied that the issues with the cupola have been resolved. Ms. Steinbacher said that the capital requests from the Ridgewood Library include replacement of the carpeting in the reference area and renovations to the bathrooms. She said that the Library Foundation has funded many interior improvements to the downstairs area. Councilmember Weitz noted that the Ridgewood Library is requesting $271,000.00 for its Capital Budget, but last year they only asked for $17,000.00. He reminded everyone that there is approximately $12 million in capital requests from all departments, but there is only a $7.5 million Capital Budget this year. Mr. Kazmark added that the Village is resuming discussions with the Community Development Block Grant Program, which funds, among other things, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) transitional handicapped restrooms. These grant funds could help to offset some of the capital requests made by the Ridgewood Library, regarding the bathroom renovations. 4. MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS (M.I.S.) Dylan Hansen, Director of I.T./M.I.S., reviewed the budget requests for the I.T. and M.I.S. Departments. Regarding salaries and wages, Mr. Kazmark stated that the employee who handled the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system for Ridgewood Water is no longer there, and that position was never filled afterwards. Therefore, Mr. Hansen and Gavriela Mitnick in the M.I.S. Department have taken on the additional responsibility of overseeing the SCADA system. As a result, a stipend was added at the end of last year, but this stipend will be reimbursed to the Village, by Ridgewood Water, which will offset the budget request for salaries and wages. Mr. Hansen stated that the salary and wages request is approximately 3% higher than it was in 2024. Mayor Vagianos asked Mr. Hansen what the overall budget increase is for the M.I.S. Department for 2025. Mr. Hansen replied that the overall budget increase for 2025 is approximately $60,000.00 more than it was in 2024. He explained that this increase mainly has to do with the increase in Cloud services from Spatial Data Logic. These services include a permitting system for inspections performed by the Building Department and Health Department. It is also being used to facilitate online Open Public Records Act (OPRA) requests. Mr. Hansen spoke about increases in line item 029, which are mostly subscriptions to different software programs, such as Swagit and Laserfiche, the latter of which archives online resolutions 13 Village Council Special Public Budget Meeting January 22, 2025 and ordinances. He stated that the subscription for Archive Social, which is used for archiving posts on the Village’s social media platforms, is increasing this year. This service is used to fulfill OPRA requests. New expenses include a request for $8,400.00 for Microsoft Office 365 licenses, so that Team Meetings may be utilized by Department Directors. When questioned by Mayor Vagianos, Mr. Hansen replied that there is an overall budget increase for the M.I.S. Department of 15.4%, which includes salaries and wages that will be reimbursed to the Village by Ridgewood Water, so the budget increase is actually about 7% or 8%. Mr. Kazmark added that there will be an adjustment to the budget requests under section 029. Line items 43 through 46 represent penetration testing of the Village’s computer network, required to be performed for the Joint Insurance Fund and the Village’s auditing firm. These line items are being moved to the Finance Department. Regarding the capital requests for the M.I.S. Department, Mr. Hansen stated that his first request is replacement of desktop and laptop computers. Forty-five terminals have been identified as needing to be upgraded by October. He stated that these computers have end-of-life issues with their operating systems. This budget request will cover approximately 90% to 95% of all computers. Mr. Hansen also has a request for a server replacement. He has approximately $100,000.00 left over in his Capital Budget to put towards server equipment. This will replace outdated servers which are used for the Geographic Information System (GIS), files, and Office of Emergency Management. The servers will be located physically in the Village and there will be redundancies. If a server at one location is malfunctioning, then a fully running backup will be available for use. Mr. Hansen said he reviewed cloud services for the finance system and it was more expensive than to host the programs in-house. Servers can cost anywhere from approximately $10,000.00 apiece up to $58,000.00 or $68,000.00 each. He is requesting an additional $100,000.00 this year to purchase the servers, which will support all Village operations. Ridgewood Water is giving Mr. Hansen money in his budget to buy their servers, including the SCADA system. Councilmember Weitz recalled that the Village recently appropriated approximately $100,000.00 to the I.T./M.I.S. Department for new computers. Mr. Hansen said that he did not make any capital requests last year, but the funds Councilmember Weitz spoke about were used to purchase network switches, which are used for communication facilities over the fiber network. Councilmember Weitz noted that there was a request for an I.T. vehicle. Mr. Hansen said that he is requesting an electric vehicle, which would be used for traveling from site to site, including inspecting pumphouses located in Midland Park, Glen Rock and Wyckoff. He is hoping to share this vehicle and its expense with Ridgewood Water. He said that sometimes when they borrow a truck from the Engineering Department, they often have to put brand-new servers on top of shovels and pick axes. There are no “clean” vehicles which they can borrow to transport 14 Village Council Special Public Budget Meeting January 22, 2025 technological equipment, so they often use their own personal vehicles. A lease from Enterprise for this particular electric vehicle would cost approximately $700.00 per month. Deputy Mayor Perron asked Mr. Hansen to consider either a hybrid vehicle or EV. Mr. Hansen said that years ago, they used to have a Mini Cooper EV and it was useful. When questioned by Councilmember Weitz about the $700.00 per month to lease an EV from Enterprise, Mr. Hansen stated that this would be the first lease on an EV for their department. Councilmember Weitz said that he remains “skeptical” about this particular budget request. There was a discussion between Ms. Mailander, Mr. Kazmark, and Mr. Rooney regarding the logistics of Ridgewood Water contributing funds towards this EV and into which account the monies would be allocated. Councilmember Weitz noted that there was no request made by Mr. Hansen for equipment to improve the acoustics in the courtroom. Mr. Hansen stated that he has $49,575.79 left in his Capital Budget, which will be used to replace one of the cameras in the courtroom, as well as to purchase lapel microphones and upgrade equipment, so that the sound quality in the courtroom can be improved. He has been speaking with some sound control experts to figure out the best solution. There was further discussion about cancelling any unspent balances in various departmental Capital Budgets, unless a project for which these monies are targeted has not yet been completed. Mayor Vagianos suggested that the Village Councilmembers be given the opportunity to view a demonstration of any new audio/video equipment before actually purchasing same. Mr. Hansen concurred. Deputy Mayor Perron asked how many desktops/laptops could be purchased for $45,000.00. She also asked for an estimate of how much the old technology could be sold for, as surplus property. Mr. Hansen replied that the old desktops/laptops would not have any resale value, because the hard drives are pulled out of the computers so that sensitive data contained on them can be shredded. 5. MUNICIPAL COURT Aarika Will, Municipal Court Administrator, reviewed the budget requests for the Municipal Court. Mr. Kazmark remarked that there are no capital requests for the Municipal Court. Ms. Will said that salaries and wages have decreased, since one employee retired. The retiree’s position was filled with an entry-level employee, at a lower salary. The request for supplies has increased slightly, since their toner supply is getting low. They have three State computers, and the only thing the Municipal Court must pay for is the toner for the printers and copiers. Councilmember Weitz noted that the Municipal Court is requesting significantly less money this year (8% less), than they did last year for their Operating Budget. 15 Village Council Special Public Budget Meeting January 22, 2025 Mr. Kazmark said that the budget requests will be reduced further. He pointed out that the request for telephone expenses of $3,000.00 can be removed. Mr. Kazmark asked Ms. Will to address the renewal of the Shared Services Agreement with Glen Rock. Ms. Will stated that the Shared Services Agreement with Glen Rock and Wyckoff was renewed in December 2024, although Wyckoff is not specifically mentioned in the Shared Services Agreement. She stated that there are shared employees who work for all three municipalities, including Ms. Will. There will be a yearly 2% increase, and the term of the agreement is for three years. At this point, a brief break, from 7:00 p.m. to 7:17 p.m., was taken by the Village Councilmembers. Roll call was taken by Ms. Mailander, with all Village Councilmembers being present at roll call. 6. PUBLIC DEFENDER Ms. Mailander indicated that the Public Defender, who had worked for the Village for approximately 20 years, has resigned. This vacant position was filled by the former Alternate Public Defender, who worked as the Alternate Public Defender for several years. The new Public Defender has recommended someone to fill the role of Alternate Public Defender, and both Aarika Will, Municipal Court Administrator, and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney, are in favor of appointing this individual as Alternate Public Defender. Ms. Mailander said the former Public Defender requested that it be emphasized to the new Public Defender and Alternate Public Defender that a defendant should appear in person in court, alongside the Public Defender. Ms. Will explained that defendants usually do appear in court, in person, unless they live out of state, such as a college student. Ms. Will said that she will strive to have all defendants appear in person during their hearing before the judge. Mr. Kazmark noted that there is an increase of $1,900.00 requested in the Public Defender’s budget for 2025, as part of the Municipal Court budget. This monetary amount is based upon caseload. Mr. Kazmark stated that this increase is warranted, based upon the uptick in the number of cases being handled by the Public Defender in Municipal Court. 7. HEALTH DEPARTMENT Dawn Cetrulo, Director of the Health Department, reviewed her budget requests for 2025. She stated that her staffing is basically the same as it was in 2024. However, there is a request to hire a part-time Inspector for the Health Department, to work five hours per week, at a cost of $9,000.00. She stated that she had requested this last year, but the request was not approved. Ms. Cetrulo mentioned that there has been an increase in plan reviews, with approximately 17 plan reviews in 2025 thus far. There are 406 licensed establishments in the Village, including 95 16 Village Council Special Public Budget Meeting January 22, 2025 restaurants, 36 food establishments, and 53 cosmetology facilities (including barber shops and nail salons). Ms. Cetrulo stated that, in addition, the Ridgewood Health Department performs cosmetology inspections for the municipality of Norwood, through a Shared Services Agreement. In 2025, Norwood is paying a $500.00 administration fee, in addition to the regular charge for these inspections. Ms. Cetrulo said that she has added similar fees to the Shared Services Agreements with Glen Rock and Fair Lawn, for the Child Health Clinics. There is also a Shared Service Agreement with Mahwah, using Ms. Cetrulo as their Health Officer, which is working out nicely. Ms. Cetrulo said that there is a budget request regarding geese control. She recalled a program a few years ago when geese eggs were being oiled, in an attempt to control the geese population. With the bird flu being prevalent among Canadian geese, and volunteers being hard to find, Ms. Cetrulo said that she is now looking for a company who will perform the oiling of the geese eggs. Regarding category 011, Full-Time Salaries and Wages, Mr. Kazmark pointed out to the Village Councilmembers the details contained on the documents in front of them. The amount of $136,621.00 has been received by the Health Department through grants pursued by Ms. Cetrulo, which amount will offset the funds needed to pay full-time salaries and wages. The total amount for salaries is $531,735.00, which is offset by the grant monies aforesaid and $32,640.00 revenue received through the Shared Services Agreement with Mahwah. This leaves a budget request of $362,474.00. Councilmember Weitz congratulated Ms. Cetrulo on receiving so many grants. He asked her if she was comfortable that the budget requests, she is presenting will cover all of the needs of the Health Department for 2025, and Ms. Cetrulo replied in the affirmative. Mayor Vagianos asked Ms. Cetrulo what the overall percentage increase is regarding the budget requests for 2025, as opposed to 2024. Ms. Cetrulo said that her budget requests for 2025 have decreased by .5%, when compared to her budget requests in 2024. Ms. Cetrulo indicated that she is getting a smaller hybrid vehicle to use for the Health Department. Mr. Kazmark stated that he fully supports Ms. Cetrulo’s request to hire a part-time Inspector for the Health Department. Mayor Vagianos praised Ms. Cetrulo’s avid pursual of available grants. There were no Capital Budget requests for the Health Department. 8. ANIMAL CONTROL Ms. Cetrulo stated that the contract with Tyco Animal Control has increased by $50.00 per month for 2025. In August of 2024, there was an increase in calls for sick raccoons (distemper), 17 Village Council Special Public Budget Meeting January 22, 2025 and Ms. Cetrulo sent out a Public Service Announcement (PSA) to alert residents of the situation. As a result, there was an increase in after-hour calls by Tyco that month. Ms. Cetrulo indicated that she wants to do an animal canvass in half of the Village this year, to determine which households have dogs or cats as pets. This can be performed by Tyco at a cost of $1.00 per household. The purpose of the canvass is to check which households have or have not obtained the proper licenses for their pets and to increase revenue. Ms. Cetrulo mentioned that many dog bite cases occur with dogs that are not properly licensed. Councilmember Weitz asked what the “OE Budget Credits” were. Ms. Cetrulo said that this represents the “Dog Trust.” The money collected for animal licensing goes into this Dog Trust, which is used to offset paying for the animal control program, as well as to pay for prophylaxis of stray animals. Upon questioning by Councilmember Weitz, Ms. Cetrulo said that the item he was asking about had to do with the canvassing for pet owners in half of Ridgewood, and the $2,000.00 request was for the oiling of the geese eggs. Mayor Vagianos stated that the canvassing will generate more revenue. This was confirmed by Ms. Cetrulo, who stated that they generated a lot of revenue the first year this was performed. Pet licenses cost $18.00 for a neutered/spayed animal and $25.00 for a non-neutered animal. 9. TAX ASSESSOR William Palumbo, Tax Assessor, gave an overview of his budget requests for 2025. Mr. Palumbo stated that there was a salary increase, because his assistant, Renee Buono, received her credentials as a Certified Tax Assessor (CTA). Ms. Buono could now get a Tax Assessor position in another municipality, but her services are much needed in Ridgewood. Mr. Palumbo said that he could now send Ms. Buono out on inspections, whereas before he could not do so, because she was only a Keyboarding Clerk. Mr. Kazmark added that they plan to do a promotional track for Ms. Buono to the position of Assistant Tax Assessor, so that Ms. Buono can take over for Mr. Palumbo in his absence. Ms. Buono can also take on more responsibility in the Tax Assessor’s Office, performing work for which she is now qualified, as a CTA. Councilmember Weitz said that he was fine with the salary increase, but he noted that the other expenses have doubled. Mr. Palumbo said that they ask for $75,000.00 every year, mainly to defend tax appeals. He said that his office is dealing with a major tax appeal this year. Councilmember Weitz noted that Mr. Palumbo is asking for $175,000.00 this year. Mr. Rooney explained that the $75,000.00 represents any appeal that may be adjudicated against the Village, which would result in a tax refund to the property owner. In budget account number 029, Mr. Rooney stated that the figure shown represents payment for the attorneys who represent the Village in tax appeals. 18 Village Council Special Public Budget Meeting January 22, 2025 Councilmember Weitz said that it seems that this should be budgeted for every year, and he asked why all of a sudden it was being requested this year. He pointed out that last year’s appropriation was for $21,000.00, and this year the request is $162,000.00. Last year’s modified budget was $172,000.00 and this year it is $332,000.00. He said he understands that the Village needs to plan ahead for legal fees and perhaps having to pay out tax refunds every year, and he asked why this year is different than last year. Councilmember Winograd said that Mr. Palumbo’s request for $75,000.00 was denied in 2024 and 2023. Mr. Kazmark said that there is a $125,000.00 increase in the budget requests, without salaries and wages. The $60,000.00 is up from a $10,000.00 line item from last year. Mr. Palumbo said that there is a large pending tax appeal matter, which was discussed in Closed Session, and there will be legal costs that are not captured in other areas of the budget. A special legal counsel has been hired for this particular complex tax appeal, which accounts for the extra $50,000.00 request. Mr. Kazmark said that, according to Best Practices, all New Jersey municipalities should have a line item in the Tax Assessor’s budget for a reserve for tax appeals. There are currently 100 pending tax appeals in State Court. If tax refunds are required, the Village will need funds available to pay these refunds. Mr. Palumbo added that the denial of the $75,000.00 budget request two years ago caused problems. There was a large tax appeal refund, and the successful appellant would not accept “tax credits” towards future property tax payments. As a result, Mr. Palumbo had to find available funds to reimburse approximately $160,000.00 to the appellant. If the reserve for tax appeals is not used, it would go into surplus for next year. Mr. Kazmark noted that, in another municipality in which he used to work, no such tax reserve was budgeted and the municipality had to bond in order to settle tax appeals, which he said was not a good scenario. Mr. Kazmark indicated that this line item would be flagged for future consideration. 10. BUILDING DEPARTMENT Anthony Merlino, Director of the Building Department, reviewed his budget requests for the Building Department. One of his requests is to hire a full-time clerical employee. Mr. Merlino said that his office is extremely busy, and there are two employees who perform all of the administrative work. The phones are constantly ringing, and people are always coming to the Building Department window for assistance. If one of the administrative assistants goes on a lunch break or is on vacation, and the other assistant is helping someone at the window, then phone calls go unanswered and go straight to voicemail. In the 1990s, Mr. Merlino had four administrative assistants in the Building Department. He believes that the revenue generated in the Building Department would be enough to pay the salary for a full-time employee. Mr. Merlino stated that the full-time Electrical Subcode Official in the Building Department resigned in November 2024, and he was making $50.00 per hour with a medical benefits 19 Village Council Special Public Budget Meeting January 22, 2025 package. Mr. Merlino suggested that the Electrical Subcode Official position be made a part-time position (up to 29 hours per week, with no benefits), in order to offset the cost of hiring a full- time clerical employee. He mentioned that the electrical inspections are three weeks behind, although the State Department of Community Affairs (DCA) mandates that these inspections be done within three business days. Mr. Kazmark noted that the Village’s part-time Electrical Inspector has really “stepped up” and is working two full days per week to fill the void. Mr. Merlino stated that his office processed 1,836 permits in 2024 and 1,835 permits in 2023, and performed 7,478 inspections in 2024 (electrical, building, plumbing and fire inspections). He said that one of the full-time administrative employees in his office works strictly on zoning matters, but when she is on vacation, none of the zoning matters get worked on. Mayor Vagianos asked how long it takes to return calls that are left on voicemail in the Building Department. Mr. Merlino said that voicemails are checked every day, as well as numerous emails which need to be answered. Return calls are made, at the very latest, by close of business the next day. He said that there may be a missed return call here or there but, for the most part, they strive to return every phone call received. Councilmember Weitz indicated that he is in favor of hiring a new clerical employee, since Mr. Merlino has found a way to offset the cost of the new hire’s salary. Both Mayor Vagianos and Councilmember Weitz stated that they hear a lot of complaints from people about phone calls not being returned by the Building Department. He said that if a new administrative assistant is hired, he would like to see improvement in response time, when returning phone calls. Councilmember Mortimer asked Mr. Merlino how long it would take the three-week backlog to be brought current, if an additional clerical employee is hired. Mr. Merlino explained that the three-week backlog is for electrical inspections, not administrative work. Councilmember Mortimer noted that if the Electric Subcode Official position is changed from a full-time position to a part-time position, then the backlog will get even worse. Mr. Merlino said that he wants to hire an additional part-time Electric Subcode Official, to join the existing part-time Electric Subcode Official in his office. They previously had a full-time Electric Subcode Official, but that employee resigned to take a job with the State. Mr. Merlino said that having two part-time inspectors would definitely reduce the backlog. One of the inspectors can perform plan reviews, and the other inspector can physically go out and perform inspections. Councilmember Winograd said that the Village currently owns a robust software package called Spatial Data Logic (SDL), which has an “enormous” building component. She would like to see more automation in the Building Department, and she believes that the SDL software can help to streamline some of its business operations. The SDL software would alleviate some of the responsibilities of the administrative assistants, particularly with a portal where residents can find out the status of permits or other information, rather than calling the office constantly to find out this information. Mr. Merlino said that he uses the SDL software, and customers can use the 20 Village Council Special Public Budget Meeting January 22, 2025 portal to find out the progress of their applications. Councilmember Winograd suggested that the new hires for the Building Department be required to learn and use the SDL program, and that the public be made aware that they can use this platform to find out the status of their applications. Mr. Kazmark said that he will follow up with a meeting regarding the SDL software. B. WRAP-UP AND NEXT STEPS Mr. Kazmark stated that the next budget meeting will take place on Monday, February 3, 2025. At that time, budgets will be heard from the Finance Department, Tax Collector, Village Engineer, Director of Public Works, Ridgewood Water, Sanitation and Recycling, Village Clerk, Village Manager, Village Council, and Village Attorney. 5. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC There were no comments from the public. 6. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Deputy Mayor Perron, seconded by Councilmember Winograd, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Special Public Budget Meeting was adjourned at 8:00 p.m. ____________________________________ Paul Vagianos Mayor ______________________________________ Heather A. Mailander Village Clerk 21 Village Council Special Public Budget Meeting January 22, 2025