Village Council Meeting

A REGULAR PUBLIC MEETING OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY, ON MARCH 12, 2025 AT 7:30 P.M. 1. CALL TO ORDER – OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS ACT – ROLL CALL – FLAG SALUTE Deputy Mayor Perron called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. At roll call, the following were present: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz. Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos were absent from the meeting. Also present were Keith Kazmark, Village Manager; Heather Mailander, Village Clerk; Jennifer Natoli, Deputy Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney. Deputy Mayor Perron led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag. 2. ACCEPTANCE OF FINANCIAL REPORTS Deputy Mayor Perron moved that the Bills, Claims, and Vouchers, and Statement of Funds on Hand as of February 28, 2025, be accepted as submitted. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None 3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Deputy Mayor Perron moved that the Village Council minutes of January 22, January 29, and February 5, 2025, having been reviewed by the Village Council and now available in the Village Clerk’s Office, be approved as submitted. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None 1 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 12, 2025 4. PROCLAMATIONS A. WORLD DOWN SYNDROME DAY Prior to this Proclamation being read, Deputy Mayor Perron invited Diana Stolfo and her partner, Matt Arnold, to join the Village Council on the floor of the Court Room. Deputy Mayor Perron stated that Ms. Stolfo and Mr. Arnold have been productive members of the Ridgewood Community for decades. Deputy Mayor Perron read the following proclamation: 2 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 12, 2025 Deputy Mayor Perron gave a copy of the Proclamation to Ms. Stolfo and Mr. Arnold. They both thanked the Village for recognizing World Down Syndrome Day. There was a resounding round of applause. B. NATIONAL POISON PREVENTION WEEK 2025 Councilmember Mortimer read the following Proclamation: 3 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 12, 2025 C. WORLD AUTISM DAY Councilmember Weitz read the following Proclamation: 4 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 12, 2025 5. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC Anne Loving, a resident of Ridgewood, was happy to hear that agents of bioterror were included in the Proclamation about National Poison Prevention Week 2025. She said that one agent of bioterror is Clostridium botulinum, with the botulism toxin being one of the most powerful and dangerous toxins known to man. One purified gram is enough to kill eight million people. Ms. Loving stated that honey is a source of botulism for infants, and that is why no child under the age of one year should be given honey to eat. She said that the botulism toxin is not produced in the honey, but in the gut of the baby. She said that not all bottles of honey will have such a warning on the label. Cindy Chang Messer, a resident of Ridgewood, said that she is a Ridgewood Crew mom. She announced that on Saturday, March 22, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Ridgewood Crew members will be hosting their annual Row-a-thon in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square. Ms. Messer stated that rowers will help to raise funds for the team and showcase their favorite sport. This is the second year that there will be a competition between Ridgewood firefighters and the Police Department to see who will win the title of “The Strongest First Responder.” She encouraged everyone to attend this event. There will be a Bake Sale where delicious treats may be purchased. Cynthia O’Keefe, a resident of Ridgewood, stated that at the last Village Council meeting, Councilmember Winograd said that the only question that is a bad question, is when it goes unanswered. This comment was made regarding the box that was checked off on the LOI application for the Schedler property. Ms. O’Keefe said that there was a lot of “commotion” regarding this checked box on the LOI. She said that a lot of confusion and stress could have been avoided if her original question regarding this matter had been answered when it was first asked. She said that Schedler neighbors are naturally concerned, since they are dealing with contaminated soil on the Schedler property, which is near their homes and private wells. Ms. O’Keefe said that residents living in the Schedler community fear for their health. She said that these residents have lost faith and trust in the Village Council. The neighbors are dealing with the proposed overdevelopment of the Schedler property, and the Village Councilmembers are making decisions that will affect their health, safety, and well-being. Ms. O’Keefe said that she is worried how the artificial turf field will affect her private well water. Ms. O’Keefe spoke about promissory estoppel (a legal doctrine that allows a promise to be enforced, even without a formal contract, if someone reasonably relies on that promise and suffers a detriment as a result). Years ago, an Ad Hoc Committee was formed and a development plan for the Schedler property was developed, with much compromise, which called for a small playing field. Ms. O’Keefe said that everybody was happy with that plan, yet the Village Councilmembers approved different plans with a large artificial turf field. She asked the Village Councilmembers to have mercy on the Schedler neighbors and make proper decisions that will not compromise the health and well-being of the Schedler community. 5 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 12, 2025 Amy McCambridge, a resident of Ridgewood, said that it was ironic that there was a Proclamation this week regarding National Poison Prevention Week, yet the residents of Ridgewood are being poisoned with contaminated soil, and their drinking water may potentially be poisoned as well. Ms. McCambridge said that she worked directly with Homeland Security through her nonprofit organization. She said that the water in the Schedler area has not been tested for 18 years to see if any Superfund compounds are in the water. She encouraged all Ridgewood residents to call the Poison Control Hotline to inform them that their water is being poisoned by PFAS, not just by the manufacturers of this forever chemical, but by the Village Councilmembers. Ms. McCambridge said that the Village Councilmembers have zero accountability regarding the contaminated soil on the Schedler property. She said that the Village Councilmembers made the Schedler neighbors “feel stupid” about their concerns about the soil imported to the Schedler property, yet the neighbors were correct in their assumptions that the soil was indeed contaminated. She said that Mayor Vagianos remarked that “PFAS is everywhere, so what does it matter?” Ms. McCambridge said that the berm on the Schedler property is composed of contaminated soil and Matrix has recommended that the berm be removed in its entirety. She asked the Village Councilmembers if they know of any more contamination that lies underneath the berm, such as ten feet below the berm. There were no further public comments. Mr. Kazmark said that with regard to the transparency issue and publicizing of information, specifically regarding the LOI application, he called Ms. O’Keefe’s attention to question 45 in the most recent question-and-answer release that was posted on the Village website on March 5, 2025. He said that the response to question #45 directly answers the question regarding the LOI. He said that Village staff and employees at Matrix New World Engineering have answered over 150 questions submitted by eight individuals (some of whom are not Ridgewood residents), in an attempt to maximize transparency to the public on this issue. Addressing Ms. McCambridge, Mr. Kazmark said that it was not his job to defend Mayor Vagianos, but he takes issue with Ms. McCambridge’s remark that no Village Councilmember cares about PFAS. To the contrary, the Village is spending $150 million to bring PFAS to nondetectable levels in the water by the end of 2026. He said that such a large sum of money would not be spent if the Village Councilmembers did not care about the PFAS issue. Regarding the berm on the Schedler property, Mr. Kazmark said that Matrix is recommending that the entire berm be removed. Chris Pittarese, the Licensed Site Remediation Professional (LSRP) from Matrix, specifically indicated that there was no contamination ten feet down. Many of the grids investigated by Matrix on the flat or level area of the Schedler property do not have soil contamination and will not require excavation. Some grids were found to have exceedances 6 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 12, 2025 of various compounds, and these grids will need to be remediated. There are eight grids on the Schedler property that require further investigation by Matrix, with delineation testing. Councilmember Weitz stated that answering the questions submitted by the public regarding the Schedler property has cost the Village between $15,000.00 and $20,000.00. Mr. Kazmark said that taking into account the time spent by Melissa Feury and Chris Pittarese to answer these questions, along with the time spent by Village staff, the cost may well exceed $20,000.00. Regarding the comments made by Ms. McCambridge about the soil contamination at the Schedler property and her assertion that there is no accountability on the part of the Village Council, Deputy Mayor Perron stated that the Village is spending $1.5 million for remediation of the soil contamination. She believes that this evidences a real commitment on the part of the Village Council to remediate the contamination at the Schedler property. 6. VILLAGE MANAGER’S REPORT Mr. Kazmark said the Signal Division and Engineering Department have been working on the project involving the bus station by Van Neste Square. The bus station structure is scheduled to be razed within the next few weeks. The mark-outs are being completed and they are in the process of obtaining the necessary demolition permits from the Building Department. Mr. Kazmark said that the bus shelter located by Village Hall will temporarily be relocated by Van Neste Square to provide shelter for commuters. He will be attending a meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) in April to review some of the permanent bus station options that are available to the Village. Councilmember Winograd has done some research regarding bus shelters in Boston, Massachusetts, and that information will also be discussed at the HPC meeting. Councilmember Weitz thanked Councilmember Winograd for her efforts in this regard. Mr. Kazmark stated that the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed today regarding the White Collar Union contracts, and Village staff are currently in the process of updating the contract document. An MOA should be signed with the Blue Collar Union shortly. Mr. Kazmark said that he attended the iftar held at the YMCA this past Sunday. He thanked the organizers of this event. He said that it was well attended (standing room only) and everyone was very welcoming. He wished Ramadan Mubarak to everyone who celebrates. Mr. Kazmark announced that Ridgewood has been named a “Healthy Town” for 2025 by the State of New Jersey. He thanked Dawn Cetrulo, Director of the Health Department, and her staff for their efforts in obtaining this State designation. The Mayor’s Wellness Campaign will be led by the Health Department this year. 7 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 12, 2025 The Department of Parks and Recreation held a Seasonal Summer Job Fair on March 12, 2025, and they are still accepting applications for lifeguards, camp counselors, swim instructors, and badge staff at Graydon Pool. Applications may be obtained at the Lester Stable, and the deadline for submitting applications is April 1, 2025. On March 27, 2025, from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., the Health Department, in partnership with Valley Hospital, will be hosting a program entitled “Understanding Food Labels,” with Nicole Fuller, a registered dietician. This program will teach people how to properly read food labels and interpret nutrition facts. Interested individuals may register through Community Pass or by calling the Health Department. On March 27, 2025, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., the Ridgewood Public Library will be hosting a “Reel Voices” screening and director discussion of “Rebel With a Clause” in the auditorium. Grammar guru, Ellen Jovin, takes her pop-up grammar advice stand on a hilarious road trip across all 50 states to show that comma fights can bring people closer together in a divided time. Registration is required at the Ridgewood Library. The Ridgewood Arts Council is hosting “Children in the Arts” on March 30, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Lester Stable. Children featured in this session will share their interests, talents and involvement in their chosen art form with the audience. All ages are welcome. Upcoming Village Council meetings are broadcast live in the Village Hall Courtroom, on the Village website, and Channel 34 on FIOS. The next Work Sessions are scheduled for March 26, April 2 and April 23, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. The next Public Meeting will be held on April 9, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. In addition, there will be a final Budget Meeting on April 1, 2025, beginning at 5:00 p.m. 7. VILLAGE COUNCIL REPORTS Councilmember Mortimer said that the Ridgewood Arts Council met on Monday. A flyer has been distributed regarding “Children in the Arts” which will be held on March 30, 2025 at the Lester Stable, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Admission is free. The Ridgewood Arts Foundation will hold their Annual Honors Showcase on Friday, April 4, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. at The Unitarian Society of Ridgewood. There will be live music, an art gallery, a Milk Carton Contest, Silent Auction, as well as beverages and snacks. This event is a fundraiser for the Ridgewood Arts Foundation, which is separate from the Ridgewood Arts Council. Individuals may register online at ridgewoodartsfoundation.org. 8 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 12, 2025 Councilmember Mortimer said that he participated with Councilmember Winograd at Council Chat this past Saturday, March 8, 2025, during which time residents were given the opportunity to express their concerns. Councilmember Weitz said that this past Monday, both the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) and Fourth of July Committee met. He attended the HPC meeting, since he was unable to attend their last meeting. Councilmember Weitz said that he also attended the iftar that was held at the YMCA this past weekend. Members of the Police and Fire Departments were in attendance, as well as public officials. Councilmember Weitz said that he always feels welcome when he attends this event, held by the Muslim community in Ridgewood. He wished Ramadan Mubarak to those who celebrate. He thanked Imam Mahmoud Hamza who organizes this event every year. Deputy Mayor Perron stated that she also attended the iftar, and there was plenty of home- cooked food for everyone who attended this nice event. She wished Ramadan Kareem to those who celebrate. Deputy Mayor Perron attended the Mayor’s first Wellness meeting, during which time a lot of planning was done for future events. She stated that “fun things are in store.” Green Ridgewood met on Thursday night (March 6, 2025) and a lot of planning is being done for the Daffodil Festival and Earth Day Fair, which will be held on April 27, 2025, between 11:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. in Memorial Park at Van Neste Square. There will be a petting zoo, a drummer, and a Daffy Dog Parade. Anyone entering their dog in the parade must have their dog dressed up in a costume. The Special Improvement District (SID) Steering Committee made a presentation to commercial property owners and business owners in Ridgewood. Approximately 300 invitations were sent out for this presentation. Many members of the Steering Committee spoke about their perspectives and answered questions. Participants were asked to complete a survey. The survey responses are now being analyzed by their consultant, and a report will be forthcoming. The committee will then take the next steps regarding the feasibility study. Deputy Mayor Perron stated that the Planning Board did not meet last week. The Central Business District Advisory Committee (CBDAC) will meet tomorrow via Zoom. The meeting link is contained on the CBDAC agenda, which is posted on the Village website. 9 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 12, 2025 8. RESOLUTION Ms. Mailander said that the following resolution, numbered 25-147, would be adopted by a Consent Agenda, with one vote by the Village Council, and would be read by title only. This resolution will authorize a Temporary Water Capital Budget and Temporary General Capital Budget. 10 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 12, 2025 9. ORDINANCES – RIDGEWOOD WATER A. INTRODUCTION - #4037 – AMEND CHAPTER 145 – FEES – ESTABLISH 2025 RIDGEWOOD WATER RATES, FACILITIES CHARGE, AND PFAS TREATMENT CHARGE Deputy Mayor Perron moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #4037 by title on first reading. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None The Village Clerk read Ordinance #4037 by title only: AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 145 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, FEES, AT SECTION 145-6, “ENUMERATION OF FEES RELATING TO CODE CHAPTERS” Councilmember Weitz moved that Ordinance #4037 be adopted on first reading and that April 9, 2025 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None B. INTRODUCTION - #4038 – AMEND CHAPTER 269 – WATER – PROOF OF LEAD OR GALVANIZED SERVICE LINE REPLACEMENT Deputy Mayor Perron moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #4038 by title on first reading. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None 11 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 12, 2025 The Village Clerk read Ordinance #4038 by title only: AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 269 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, ENTITLED “WATER” AT SECTION 269-8, ENTITLED “PIPING SYSTEM COMPLIANCE; RIGHT OF ACCESS” Councilmember Weitz moved that Ordinance #4038 be adopted on first reading and that April 9, 2025 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None C. INTRODUCTION - #4039 – BOND ORDINANCE – WATER UTILITY CAPITAL Deputy Mayor Perron moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #4039 by title on first reading. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None The Village Clerk read Ordinance #4039 by title only: BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR VARIOUS WATER UTILITY IMPROVEMENTS IN AND BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $4,992,000 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $4,742,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE PART OF THE COST THEREOF Councilmember Weitz moved that Ordinance #4039 be adopted on first reading and that April 9, 2025 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. 12 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 12, 2025 Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None D. PUBLIC HEARING - #4032 – ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING FUNDS FROM THE WATER CAPITAL FUND SURPLUS – SCADA AND SECURITY UPGRADES AT VARIOUS FACILITIES Deputy Mayor Perron moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #4032 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None The Village Clerk read Ordinance #4032 by title only: ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING $350,000 FROM THE WATER CAPITAL FUND SURPLUS FOR SCADA AND SECURITY UPGRADES AT VARIOUS FACILITIES IN AND BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY Since there were no public comments, Deputy Mayor Perron moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance #4032 be closed. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None Councilmember Weitz moved that Ordinance #4032 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. 13 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 12, 2025 Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None 10. RESOLUTIONS – RIDGEWOOD WATER Ms. Mailander stated that the following resolutions, numbered 25-148 through 25-151, would be adopted by a Consent Agenda, with one vote by the Village Council, and would be read by title only: 14 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 12, 2025 11. ORDINANCES A. INTRODUCTION - #4040 – AMEND CHAPTER 156 – FOOD AND FOOD HANDLING ESTABLISHMENTS – ESTABLISH DEFINITION OF TEMPORARY EVENTS Deputy Mayor Perron moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #4040 by title on first reading. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None The Village Clerk read Ordinance #4040 by title only: AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 156, OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, FOOD AND FOOD HANDLING ESTABLISHMENTS, ARTICLE I, GENERAL PROVISIONS, AT SECTION 156-2, DEFINITIONS Councilmember Weitz moved that Ordinance #4040 be adopted on first reading and that April 9, 2025 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None B. INTRODUCTION - #4041 – AMEND CHAPTER 145 – FEES – HEALTH DEPARTMENT ANNUAL FEES FOR TEMPORARY EVENTS Deputy Mayor Perron moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #4041 by title on first reading. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. 15 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 12, 2025 Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None The Village Clerk read Ordinance #4041 by title only: AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 145, OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, FEES, AT SECTION 145-5, “GENERAL FEES” Councilmember Weitz moved that Ordinance #4041 be adopted on first reading and that April 9, 2025 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None C. INTRODUCTION - #4042 – AMEND CHAPTER 105 – ANIMALS – PROHIBIT WILDLIFE FEEDING ORDINANCE Deputy Mayor Perron stated that Ordinance #4042 pertains to the feeding of wildlife in Ridgewood. Currently, the feeding of wildlife is prohibited on public land, but this ordinance will extend that prohibition to private property, because of the health implications. There is an exception for bird feeders. However, recognizing that feeding wildlife exposes humans to various diseases, this ordinance has been amended. Mr. Kazmark added that he asked the Health Department to research the recommended height for bird feeders (in an effort not to attract bears or other wildlife) and the applicable State statute pending in the Legislature. Dawn Cetrulo, Director of the Health Department, recommends that the minimum height for bird feeders be set at six feet at its lowest point. This ordinance will be amended in the future if the State Legislature passes a bill requiring the minimum height of bird feeders to be different than what is contained in Ordinance #4042. Deputy Mayor Perron moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #4042 by title on first reading. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. 16 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 12, 2025 Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None The Village Clerk read Ordinance #4042 by title only: AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 105, OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, ANIMALS, AT SECTION 105, ARTICLE VIII, “WILDLIFE FEEDING” Councilmember Weitz moved that Ordinance #4042 be adopted on first reading and that April 9, 2025 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None Councilmember Mortimer thanked Deputy Mayor Perron and Ms. Cetrulo for all of the research they did and time they spent in developing this ordinance. D. INTRODUCTION - #4043 – AMEND CHAPTER 260 – TREE PROTECTION, REMOVAL, AND REPLACEMENT Deputy Mayor Perron explained that several amendments have been made to this ordinance over the past few years, and this revised ordinance is more sensitive, realistic and appropriate than prior tree ordinances. Deputy Mayor Perron moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #4043 by title on first reading. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None The Village Clerk read Ordinance #4043 by title only: 17 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 12, 2025  AN ORDINANCE TO RESCIND AND REPLACE IN ITS ENTIRETY, CHAPTER 260 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, TREES AND SHRUBS, AND PREVIOUSLY ADOPTED ORDINANCE NO. 3682, WHICH AMENDED CHAPTER 260, AND TO ESTABLISH A NEW TITLE FOR CHAPTER 260, “TREE PROTECTION, REMOVAL, AND REPLACEMENT” Councilmember Weitz moved that Ordinance #4043 be adopted on first reading and that April 9, 2025 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None E. INTRODUCTION - #4044 – AMEND CHAPTER 241 – REGULATING SKATEBOARDS, SCOOTERS AND MICROMOBILITY VEHICLES OR DEVICES IN THE CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT Deputy Mayor Perron moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #4044 by title on first reading. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None The Village Clerk read Ordinance #4044 by title only: AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 241 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, ENTITLED “SKATEBOARDS” BY RENAMING THE CHAPTER “SKATEBOARDS, SCOOTERS, AND MICROMOBILITY VEHICLES OR DEVICES IN THE CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT” AND ADDING DEFINITIONS AND RESTRICTED VEHICLES AND DEVICES Councilmember Weitz moved that Ordinance #4044 be adopted on first reading and that April 9, 2025 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. 18 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 12, 2025 Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None F. INTRODUCTION - #4045 – BOND ORDINANCE – GENERAL CAPITAL Deputy Mayor Perron moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #4045 by title on first reading. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None The Village Clerk read Ordinance #4045 by title only: BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR VARIOUS CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS IN AND BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $4,092,190 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $3,887,000 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE PART OF THE COST THEREOF Councilmember Weitz moved that Ordinance #4045 be adopted on first reading and that April 9, 2025 be fixed as the date for the hearing thereon. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None Deputy Mayor Perron explained why she voted in favor of this ordinance. She explained that a large part of these capital funds will be used to pay for the soil remediation at the Schedler property. Another large part of these capital funds will be placed into the Maple Field Turf Sinking Fund. Those accumulated funds could be used to either purchase another artificial turf field when the current one needs to be replaced or used to return the field to natural grass. 19 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 12, 2025  G. PUBLIC HEARING - #4033 – ESTABLISH BERKSHIRE ROAD AS A THROUGH STREET AND ESTABLISH STOP SIGNS ON INTERSECTIONS WITH BERKSHIRE ROAD Deputy Mayor Perron moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #4033 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None The Village Clerk read Ordinance #4033 by title only: AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265- 58, SCHEDULE VIII: “THROUGH STREETS” Since there were no public comments, Deputy Mayor Perron moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance #4033 be closed. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None Councilmember Weitz moved that Ordinance #4033 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None 20 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 12, 2025  H. PUBLIC HEARING - #4034 – BOND ORDINANCE – PAVING OF VARIOUS ROADS AND PURCHASE OF PACKER SANITATION TRUCK Deputy Mayor Perron moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #4034 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None The Village Clerk read Ordinance #4034 by title only: BOND ORDINANCE PROVIDING FOR VARIOUS CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS IN AND BY THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, IN THE COUNTY OF BERGEN, NEW JERSEY, APPROPRIATING $2,765,550 THEREFOR AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $2,627,050 BONDS OR NOTES OF THE VILLAGE TO FINANCE PART OF THE COST THEREOF Boyd A. Loving, a resident of Ridgewood, stated that he questioned whether or not this bond ordinance could be passed this evening, since only three Village Councilmembers were present at the meeting this evening. It was his understanding that a vote from four officials was required in order to pass a bond ordinance. He asked Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney, to render his opinion in this regard. Mr. Rogers said that Mr. Loving raised a very good point. Mr. Kazmark stated that, from a voting standpoint, this bond ordinance cannot be adopted this evening. Since Ms. Mailander duly advertised the Public Hearing and final adoption, this matter can be tabled until the next meeting. Ms. Mailander stated that this Public Hearing will be continued to April 9, 2025, and Mr. Rogers concurred. Mr. Kazmark indicated that this procedure varies from municipality to municipality, but he agreed that the Village Council can hold this bond ordinance for adoption until the April 9, 2025 meeting. The Public Hearing was required to be held this evening, since it was advertised after introduction of the bond ordinance. Since there were no further public comments, Deputy Mayor Perron moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance #4034 be continued until April 9, 2025. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. 21 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 12, 2025 Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None I. PUBLIC HEARING - #4035 – AMEND CHAPTER 265 – VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC – PARKING REGULATIONS ON LIBRARY PLACE, CORSA TERRACE AND SOUTHWEST PARKING LOT AREA OF PEASE BUILDING Deputy Mayor Perron moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #4035 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None The Village Clerk read Ordinance #4035 by title only: AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 265 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC, AT SECTION 265-33, “PERMIT PARKING” AND SECTION 265-42, “RESERVED PARKING SPACES” AND SECTION 265-65, “SCHEDULE XV: “PARKING PROHIBITED AT ALL TIMES” Since there were no public comments, Deputy Mayor Perron moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance #4035 be closed. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None Councilmember Weitz moved that Ordinance #4035 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. 22 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 12, 2025 Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None J. PUBLIC HEARING - #4036 – ESTABLISH 2025 SIGNIFICANT SEWER DISCHARGER FEES Deputy Mayor Perron moved that the Village Clerk read Ordinance #4036 by title on second reading and that the Public Hearing thereon be opened. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None The Village Clerk read Ordinance #4036 by title only: AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 145 OF THE CODE OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD, FEES, AT SECTION 145-6, “ENUMERATION OF FEES RELATING TO CODE CHAPTERS” Since there were no public comments, Deputy Mayor Perron moved that the Public Hearing on Ordinance #4036 be closed. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None Councilmember Weitz moved that Ordinance #4036 be adopted on second reading and final publication as required by law. Councilmember Mortimer seconded the motion. 23 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 12, 2025 Roll Call Vote AYES: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron and Weitz NAYS: None ABSENT: Councilmember Winograd and Mayor Vagianos ABSTAIN: None 12. RESOLUTIONS Mr. Kazmark requested that resolution #25-159 be removed from the Consent Agenda and carried until April 9, 2025. Resolution #25-159 pertains to the purchase of two Freightliner sanitation rear load packer trucks, and this Resolution can’t be adopted until Bond Ordinance 4034 is adopted, in order to provide the funding for this purchase. Ms. Mailander stated that the following resolutions, numbered 25-152 through 25-178, except for Resolution #25-159, would be adopted by a Consent Agenda, with one vote by the Village Council, and would be read by title only: 24 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 12, 2025 Ms. Mailander stated that the following resolution, numbered 25-179, would be considered separately and read in full: Prior to the vote on Resolution #25-179, Councilmember Mortimer said that even though he personally wished that newspapers and books were not disappearing and were being digitized, he voted in favor of Resolution #25-179 since he believes that this will be most beneficial to Ridgewood residents. Deputy Mayor Perron stated that a robust, independent media, newspapers in particular, have been the mark of the United States’ democracy for the last 200-plus years, and she is voting against Resolution #25-179 in an effort not to hasten the demise of newspapers, which depend on the income from municipalities when legal notices are published. Deputy Mayor Perron indicated that she recognizes that technological changes have changed the whole environment, but she was voting against this resolution. Councilmember Weitz indicated that he is voting in favor of Resolution #25-179, since it will provide more transparency and will save money for the Village. 25 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 12, 2025 13. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC Boyd A. Loving, a resident of Ridgewood, asked if Ordinance #4036 was adopted this evening. When questioned by Ms. Mailander, it was determined that Mr. Loving was actually referring to Resolution #25-179 regarding the support of legislation allowing publication of legal notices on official government websites. Ms. Mailander informed Mr. Loving that Resolution #25-179 was passed. Mr. Loving noted that there were a couple of resolutions on the agenda this evening pertaining to the remediation work on the North Walnut Street parking lot. He was told by Mr. Kazmark that this was a fully funded project by the Village, where monies were appropriated years ago but work on the project only commenced recently. Mr. Loving said that he had concerns about the costs associated with this project, and he was told by Mr. Kazmark that Ms. Mailander had found some insurance policies which covered the Texaco station that had formerly occupied this property. These policies were in effect at a time when environmental exclusions were not included in insurance policies. Mr. Loving asked what progress has been made investigating the terms of these insurance policies, in an effort to determine if there may be any insurance proceeds to offset the cost of this remediation. Mr. Loving also inquired as to whether or not any insurance proceeds could be obtained through any of the Village’s insurance policies. He asked if any legal action could be taken against the former owners of the Texaco gas station, in the event that no funds could be recovered from their insurance policy. Mr. Loving said that there was a front page story in the Bergen Record newspaper today, about how Ridgewood is going to be sued by the New Jersey Builders Association, regarding affordable housing requirements. He understands that Village officials cannot comment on potential or pending lawsuits, but he asked if Resolution #25-162 passed this evening, awarding a professional services contract in the amount of $22,500.00 to Beth McManus, Municipal Planning Consultant, regarding the Fourth Round Housing Element and Fair Share Plan, will cover any additional work that may be required by the Village to defend any potential lawsuit. Mr. Loving said that Ridgewood was one of 159 municipalities being sued by the New Jersey Builders Association. Mr. Loving then spoke about Resolution #25-174, which pertains to the acceptance of a donation of furniture for the Zabriskie-Schedler house. He pointed out that the person or organization donating the furniture is not listed on the agenda or contained in the Transparency Binder. He asked if it is the Village’s policy to exclude the name of a person who is donating items or funds to the Village, whether the donor chose to be anonymous, or if it was just an oversight. There were no further public comments. 26 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 12, 2025 Addressing Mr. Loving, Mr. Kazmark indicated that the remediation project at the North Walnut Street parking lot is a fully funded project. They are currently researching whether or not any monies can be recouped from insurance policies, to help offset the cost of this project. Regarding Mr. Loving’s comments about the potential lawsuit by the New Jersey Builders Association, Mr. Rogers stated that no lawsuit has yet been filed. He said that there was a time period under the Fourth Round Housing Element regulations stating that anyone who wanted to challenge the Village’s Fair Share Housing Plan had to do so by the end of either January or February 2025. Mr. Rogers said that the work pertaining to the potential lawsuit is outside of the scope of work that Ms. McManus is to perform pursuant to Resolution #25-162. Mr. Kazmark added that the Village had an obligation to finalize the Fourth Round Housing Plan by the end of January 2025 by passing the appropriate resolution, which was completed. He said that this gives the Village some immunity against a builder’s remedy suit. There is another deadline in June 2025 for the Village to prepare the Housing Plan (work to be performed by Ms. McManus via Resolution #25-162). 14. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilmember Weitz, seconded by Councilmember Mortimer, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Regular Public Meeting was adjourned at 8:38 p.m. ____________________________________ Paul Vagianos Mayor ______________________________________ Heather A. Mailander Village Clerk 27 Village Council Regular Public Meeting March 12, 2025