Village Council Meeting

A REGULAR PUBLIC WORK SESSION OF THE VILLAGE COUNCIL OF THE VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD HELD IN THE SYDNEY V. STOLDT, JR. COURT ROOM OF THE RIDGEWOOD VILLAGE HALL, 131 NORTH MAPLE AVENUE, RIDGEWOOD, NEW JERSEY, ON DECEMBER 3, 2025 AT 7:30 P.M. 1. CALL TO ORDER – OPEN PUBLIC MEETINGS ACT – ROLL CALL – FLAG SALUTE Mayor Vagianos called the meeting to order at 7:32 p.m. and read the Statement of Compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act. At roll call, the following were present: Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron, Weitz, Winograd, and Mayor Vagianos. Also present were Keith Kazmark, Village Manager; Heather Mailander, Village Clerk; and Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney. Mayor Vagianos led those in attendance in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag. 2. PRESENTATION A. MATRIX REPORT ON SCHEDLER PROPERTY SOIL REMEDIATION PLAN Mr. Kazmark introduced Sharon Stecker, Vice President of Matrix New World Engineering; Melissa Feury, an Environmental Scientist and Project Manager at Matrix New World Engineering; and Chris Pittarese, Licensed Site Remediation Professional at Matrix New World Engineering. Ms. Stecker stated that she is Vice President and Director of Environmental Services at Matrix New World Engineering. For decades, she has worked with agencies, developers, and private industry throughout New Jersey on complex environmental challenges. These projects have included the cleanup and restoration of contaminated properties, some of which were intended for public use. Ms. Stecker said that a lot of her work focuses on supporting Matrix teams and clients to move projects forward safely, transparently, and in a way that stands up to regulatory scrutiny and public expectations. Ms. Stecker said that the team at Matrix have worked to evaluate the environmental conditions at the Schedler property, including soil sampling, delineation of impacted areas, evaluation of an appropriate remedial action, and complete preparation of the documentation required by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP). A remedial action work plan proposed by Matrix of the Schedler property has now been approved by the NJDEP. Ms. Stecker then explained the remediation plan (removal and disposal) selected by Matrix New World Engineering to clean up the Schedler property. She stated that the NJDEP has very 1 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025 stringent cleanup standards, and excavation and disposal is the only alternative that fully removes the contaminated fill from the Schedler property. In addition, removal and disposal of the contaminated soil is the most permanent and predictable solution to cleaning up the Schedler property. Bioremediation, another cleanup technique, can take years to reach targeted contamination concentration levels. This technique involves uncertainty in how contaminants respond, particularly in heterogeneous environments. Bioremediation requires long-term monitoring and may not ultimately achieve the standards required. The removal and disposal method provides immediate measurable results, is the most straightforward path to regulatory closure, and is the only option that gives the Village certainty on completion and compliance. Ms. Stecker said that Matrix is aware of community concerns regarding truck traffic, noise and dust during the remediation process. She said that these concerns can be fully managed through standard construction Best Practices, including controlled truck hours, dust suppression, air monitoring, and clear communication with residents and other stakeholders, such as the Ridgewood Police Department. Ms. Stecker indicated that her team will be developing plans to address those details once the remediation plan advances. She stated that approval by the NJDEP of Matrix’s remediation work plan means that the plan meets State standards for restoring the Schedler property for safe public use. Deputy Mayor Perron asked what Ms. Stecker meant by “heterogeneous environments.” Ms. Stecker replied that this term means that there is not a singular type of material on the Schedler property, but rather a mix of materials. There are piles of debris, solid waste, and a mix of other materials. Councilmember Mortimer said that it is his understanding that the bioremediation technique consists of spraying something on the existing berm. Ms. Stecker said that bioremediation uses microorganisms to degrade organic contaminants in soil, groundwater, sludge and solids. The microorganisms break down contaminants by using them as an energy source. She described bioremediation as a “contact sport.” She said that this is a very complicated scientific process that is not foolproof and that would involve construction on the Schedler property as well. Councilmember Weitz asked what the timeframe would be if the bioremediation technique were to be used to remediate the soil contamination at the Schedler property. Ms. Stecker said that there is no set timetable, since there are so many variables that have to be tested over time. Pilot testing and additional analyses have to be done repeatedly. She said that bioremediation takes time to activate bacteria and to test whether or not the introduction of microorganisms is working to remediate the soil contamination. Ms. Stecker said that a common problem with using the bioremediation approach is rebound, which is when soil is cleaned up and then a year later, the contamination returns. Upon questioning by Councilmember Mortimer, Ms. Stecker confirmed that both the removal and disposal technique, as well as the bioremediation technique, involve the creation of dust into the air. 2 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025 Councilmember Weitz asked if the Matrix team has used the removal and disposal technique before with other contaminated sites and, if so, what successes or issues they have encountered during those projects. Ms. Stecker said that Matrix has used this remediation technique throughout the State of New Jersey for the last 30 years. She said that this is the preferred remedy for a remediation project, such as the Schedler property, where certainty is the ultimate outcome. Mr. Kazmark said the remediation of the Schedler property commenced in late 2023 and the berm soil sampling results were discussed at a Village Council meeting in June of 2024. He said that several methods of remediation were discussed between the Village and Matrix, one of which was capping (which was ultimately ruled out). The final remediation process decided upon was the excavation and disposal of the contaminated soil. Mr. Kazmark asked Ms. Stecker to discuss the highest residential standard set forth by the NJDEP, how that standard ties into a prospective park being built on the Schedler property, and how it coincides with the recommendation made by Matrix. Ms. Stecker said that the remediation method recommended by Matrix for the Schedler property will be a permanent solution that will ensure the protection of human health and the environment. The NJDEP created this standard by researching various criteria. Considering the fact that the Schedler property will be used by both adults and children alike, the highest residential standard developed by the NJDEP should be followed. Acknowledging that there are no set guarantees in the world, Mr. Kazmark asked Ms. Stecker what the highest degree of success would be after remediating the Schedler property using the removal and disposal method, as opposed to the bioremediation method. Ms. Stecker replied that using the removal and disposal method of remediation “de-risks” the uncertainties found using the bioremediation method. Mayor Vagianos thanked the representatives from Matrix New World Engineering for attending the meeting this evening. He said that Ms. Stecker described bioremediation as a complicated scheme with uncertainties, and described the removal and disposal remediation method as “predictable” and “permanent.” He said that the Schedler property will be developed into a park, and he asked Ms. Stecker if the Village had an obvious choice to make when choosing what type of remediation process to use. Ms. Stecker replied that the Village obviously needs to choose to remediate the soil at the Schedler property by using the removal and disposal method. Mayor Vagianos asked if the removal and disposal method of remediation is the method preferred by the NJDEP, and Ms. Stecker replied that it is, in order to adhere to the residential standard developed by the NJDEP. Councilmember Weitz thanked the representatives from Matrix for attending this evening’s meeting. 3 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025 Mr. Kazmark said that another concern expressed by the Schedler neighbors dealt with what safety precautions would be put in place by Matrix and the contractor/excavator while doing the soil remediation at the Schedler property. Ms. Stecker said that the Matrix team will work alongside the contractor to develop detailed plans for air monitoring, traffic control, and noise mitigation. Mr. Kazmark added that the Village has had ongoing discussions with Dr. Mark Schwarz, Superintendent of Schools, and the Police Department, in the event any school bus stops need to be temporarily relocated further into the neighborhood to avoid children interacting with truck traffic, while the excavation is taking place. Mr. Kazmark said that he has had ongoing discussions regarding the appropriate public notification process, in the event an air quality monitor alarm went off. 3. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC Ms. Mailander announced that there is a three-minute time limit, and there will be a one-minute warning bell so that speakers are aware that they have only one more minute left to make comments. When the buzzer goes off, Ms. Mailander indicated that she will let the speaker know that their time is up. Anne Loving, a resident of Ridgewood, said that it was predictable that the representatives of Matrix New World Engineering would leave before members of the public would be able to make comments, because it always happens that way. Ms. Loving said that she could not understand why the Matrix representatives could not stay for the public comments, since they are being paid by the Village. After the meeting held a few weeks ago between Matrix and the public, Ms. Loving did some research regarding bioremediation. She feels that the presentation by Matrix this evening was an oversimplification of the bioremediation process. Ms. Loving said that bioremediation is actually a fantastic way of clearing chemicals from soil. She described the removal and disposal remediation method as being akin to “kicking a can down the road.” The soil being removed still contains dangerous chemicals, and stirring it up through the excavation process is not very responsible to the greater good of the earth. Ms. Loving feels that the contaminated soil should be “fixed where it is.” Regarding the berm on the Schedler property, Ms. Loving said that using the bioremediation process to cure the contaminated soil on the berm would allow the berm to remain in place, which will offer massive protection for children playing on the Schedler property in the case of a vehicular accident. She said that if the berm is removed and guard rails are installed, the guard rails will not stop an 18-wheeler tractor trailer from encroaching onto the Schedler property and injuring someone. Ms. Loving said that if the bioremediation process were used on the rest of the Schedler property, then the contractor would not have to dig four feet deep around the existing trees, which will kill the trees if such excavation is performed. Using the bioremediation method would eliminate 4 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025 the need for heavy truck traffic in a residential neighborhood and would avoid the risk of airborne particles of contaminated soil being disbursed. Ms. Loving said that Ms. Stecker commented that there is a lot of uncertainty with using the bioremediation method. It was learned at the meeting a few weeks ago that Matrix will not be re- testing the soil once the remediation (removal and disposal) of the contaminated soil is completed. Ms. Loving said that this removal and disposal remediation method also creates major uncertainty, since no further testing will be performed. At the prior meeting, Ms. Loving asked what type of foam will be applied to keep the dust at bay during the excavation process, in freezing weather, and she was told by Matrix representatives that they did not know. Ms. Loving said that the foam will be composed of chemicals, something other than dihydrogen monoxide. She urged the Village Councilmembers to consider using the bioremediation method to treat the soil at the Schedler property. Patty Infantino, a resident of Ridgewood, said that she agreed with Ms. Loving’s comments. At the prior Matrix meeting, residents learned that 35 trees would have to be removed, and the 80 trees currently on the berm will need to be transplanted. Ms. Infantino said that there was a high chance that the transplanted trees would not survive. The 35 trees being removed are old-growth trees. Ms. Infantino said that Ms. Stecker described the removal and disposal process of soil remediation as foolproof. However, Ms. Infantino said that this is incorrect, since Matrix is not going to retest the soil after the remediation is completed. When Matrix representatives were asked at the meeting how they will be able to prove there is no more soil contamination after the berm is removed and the remediation is completed on the Schedler property, residents were told that there was no way this could be proven. Ms. Infantino urged the Village Council to reconsider the use of the removal and disposal remediation method. Dr. Salvatore Infantino, a resident of Ridgewood, said that he met with Matrix representatives at the prior meeting. He said that the remediation plan recommended by Matrix is a temporary fix to a problem that is going to come back. Dr. Infantino said that Matrix representatives admitted to him that any land next to a busy highway, such as the Schedler property, is constantly being contaminated. He said that removing and disposing of the contaminated soil on the Schedler property will only provide a six-month reprieve before the property becomes contaminated again from the pollutants emitted from Route 17 traffic. Dr. Infantino said that the only way to prevent recontamination is to prohibit truck traffic on Route 17. He recommended the use of bioremediation to cure the contaminated soil on the Schedler property. He said that Matrix representatives admitted to him that the soil around the existing trees was not as contaminated as soil where there were no trees, since the trees served as a filter, filtering the land of the pollutants. Dr. Infantino said that if the Village tests the soil on the Schedler property six months after the completion of the remediation, the soil will be found to be contaminated again. 5 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025 Dr. Infantino said that he has repeatedly told the Village Councilmembers that they were insane to consider installing a multipurpose field on the Schedler property, which will put Village children in harm’s way. He said that if he were younger, he would run a study of cohorts of children playing on that proposed artificial turf field. Dr. Infantino predicted that the results of the study would reveal a spike in neoplastic diseases and cardio-respiratory diseases in those children. He said that it was irresponsible to construct a playing field on the Schedler property, given the extensive information existing today about the dangers of artificial turf. Dr. Infantino said that doing so was tantamount to malpractice. Nancy Friedman, a resident of Ridgewood, said that she hesitated to speak at this evening’s meeting because she has appeared many times before and it feels like shouting into an echo chamber with no one listening. Ms. Friedman said that Mr. Kazmark stated this evening that the Village found out about the soil contamination in 2023 and that there were numerous meetings that occurred in 2024 and 2025. Ms. Friedman said that there is still talk about how the Village is going to communicate to the public and how the air is going to be monitored, despite the fact that it was the Village who dumped the contaminated soil on the Schedler property in the first place. Ms. Friedman asserted that the Village tested the soil and knew it was contaminated even before it was imported to the Schedler property. She said that no one in the Village was interested in notifying the Schedler neighbors of this fact at that time, but were instead interested in burying this fact in the dirt. Ms. Friedman said that Ms. Stecker of Matrix spoke about the uncertainty of the bioremediation process versus the certainty of the removal and disposal remediation process. She does not feel that there is certainty with any plan, and there will definitely be no certainty unless the soil is tested after the remediation has been completed. When a person is treated for cancer, the margins around the cancerous site are tested to make sure that all of the cancerous areas have been removed. Ms. Friedman said that it is irresponsible not to retest the soil on the Schedler property after the remediation is completed. Ms. Friedman then spoke about the possibility of moving school bus stops around temporarily and coordinating schedules, with shortened daylight hours and frozen ground in the winter months. She said that it makes no sense to rush to get the remediation done during the winter. If the remediation were done in the summer months, then the Village would not have to worry about moving school bus stops around. Ms. Friedman said that she and other Schedler neighbors are extremely concerned about the number of truckloads that will be coming in and out of the Schedler property. She said that she could not understand why the plan did not include the trucks using the entrance closest to Route 17, thereby avoiding the trucks having to drive through the residential neighborhood. She and others feel that the current and prior Village Councils have been disingenuous with the entire process of developing the Schedler property. Cynthia O’Keefe, a resident of Ridgewood, echoed the comments and concerns from earlier speakers this evening. She considers the recommended plan by Matrix to be a terrible plan to rush 6 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025 through. She said that when Mr. Kazmark first became Village Manager, she had a meeting with him in which she told him that the Schedler residents had zero trust in the Village Councilmembers. Ms. O’Keefe said that the Village Councilmembers have done nothing to regain the trust of these residents, despite repeated attempts by Schedler neighbors to convey their concerns to them. There are many disappointments felt by the Schedler neighbors, including overdevelopment of the Schedler property and the planned remediation in January. She said that the Schedler neighbors are trying to protect their children and the entire community. Ms. O’Keefe is baffled that the Village Councilmembers do not understand that the Schedler neighbors are living in fear. She feels that many of the residents living near the Schedler property have been lumped into a category of people who only know how to lob insults. She said that these residents have been bullied and have been put into a very awkward situation. Ms. O’Keefe said that there are people in the Schedler area who have asthma and are on oxygen machines, and she wondered if the Village Councilmembers have considered what the truckloads of dirt being hauled away will do to these respiratory-compromised people. Ms. O’Keefe said that it was unconscionable that the Village Councilmembers are rubber stamping and steamrolling the remediation plan through quickly. She said that she is not confident that the Schedler neighbors can feel safe in their own neighborhood. Pam Welch, a resident of Ridgewood, said that it is her understanding that the court case involving the Kensington development and the Village was considered today. She asked if this is accurate and what, if anything, will be the process going forward. Rurik Halaby, a resident of Ridgewood, said that he appreciates the concerns and confusion felt by the residents who live north of Route 17, particularly with all of the misinformation being bandied about, regarding the development of the Schedler property. Mr. Halaby said that the Village Council and Village Manager are “first class” who have set the standard for competence, honesty and open communication. After 15 years of the Village spinning its wheels regarding the development of the Schedler property, the existing Village Council has finally committed to finish the development of Schedler Park, and everyone can be proud of this new park. Mr. Halaby suggested that the Schedler neighbors work directly with the Village Councilmembers to help alleviate their fears and concerns, and not those who supposedly represent the Schedler neighbors. Mr. Halaby advised the handful of people who have created much of the noise surrounding the Schedler property to sit back and think about what they are doing. He said that these silly people come up with every argument they can think of to delay or derail the development of the Schedler property, including the fact that there are eagles nesting on the property. He advised these “antis” to stop their hand-to-hand combat approach, and instead work positively with the Village Council and Village Manager. 7 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025 Mr. Halaby said that Councilmember Winograd and Mr. Kazmark have done much to make sure that the historic Zabriskie-Schedler house becomes a valuable asset of the Village. He said that there has been a lot of talk about the planned artificial turf field poisoning the private wells. He said that if anything has poisoned the wells, it is the runoff from Route 17. Mr. Halaby said that these homes should be connected to Ridgewood Water to ensure that they have safe and clean drinking water. He expressed the hope that a wall, and not a fence, will replace the berm once the berm is removed. Mr. Halaby suggested lining the boundary of the Schedler property by Route 17 with solar panels, which would generate enough electricity for 1,000 homes and save one million pounds of carbon dioxide from going into the air. Mr. Halaby concluded by stating that the Village Council and Village Manager are doing a tremendous job. Suzanne Ruane, a resident of Ridgewood, said that the representatives of Matrix stated this evening that the residential standards set forth by the NJDEP were the highest possible standards. She said that the soil at Orchard School was retested again and again after the remediation, and this seems to be a higher standard than the one spoken about by Ms. Stecker. Ms. Ruane asked why this is not being done at the Schedler property after the remediation is completed. Ms. Ruane concluded by thanking the Village Council for having the Kingsbridge Lane Pedestrian Bridge repaired and reinstalled. Boyd A. Loving, Ridgewood resident and taxpayer, said that residents were reminded about the proper decorum to be followed during Village Council meetings, yet no one from the dais stopped Mr. Halaby from calling Schedler neighbors silly and crazy. Mr. Loving said that there will be trouble if certain individuals are treated differently than others. There were no further public comments. Matthew Rogers, Village Attorney, said that regarding the litigation between the Kensington developer and the Village, he cannot comment on the case since it is ongoing. Mr. Rogers said that there was a conference held in the case today, and the judge said that everything discussed in the settlement conference remains confidential. Addressing Ms. Welch’s questions regarding the process in this case going forward, Mr. Rogers said that the process follows the fourth round affordable housing rules referred to as the “program.” A Superior Court Judge oversees the Village’s Housing Element and Fair Share Plan, but the matter is currently before a separate settlement judge. The settlement judge attempts to settle all issues before the end of the year. If the matter is not settled, then the settlement judge makes a determination as to what will happen next and makes his or her recommendation to the Superior Court Judge. Another settlement conference has been scheduled for December 11, 2025. Addressing Mr. Loving’s comments, Mayor Vagianos said that he heard Mr. Halaby use the word “silly” but not the word “crazy.” He did not feel that the use of the word “silly” was over the line. Mayor Vagianos said that he has interrupted Mr. Halaby as many times as he has everyone else. 8 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025 Addressing Ms. Ruane’s comments about the differences in the remediation done at Orchard School and the remediation planned for the Schedler property, Councilmember Winograd said that not all remediation methods are the same. She said that the soil at Orchard School was contaminated by coal dust particulate, because the site was located in an industrial area, and the capping remediation method was used at that site. The capping method required an additional 18 inches of soil to be placed on top of the contaminated soil. Councilmember Winograd said that if Ms. Ruane wants more details regarding the remediation at Orchard School, Councilmember Winograd would connect her to the Licensed Site Remediation Professional (LSRP) working for the Ridgewood Board of Education. Councilmember Winograd said that when she was first elected to the Village Council, she was unaware that the dirt imported to the Schedler property came from six sources. No soil testing results were provided to the Village Councilmembers or to the public at that time. She faulted the prior Village Council for not hiring an LSRP to inspect the soil imported to the Schedler property. Addressing Dr. Infantino’s concerns, Councilmember Winograd said that the contaminated soil being removed is attributed to the imported dirt, not the highway. The test results revealed a particular element that was contained in the imported dirt, and the exceedances in the dirt are not related to Route 17 traffic. Councilmember Winograd felt that the cleanest way to remediate the dirt on the Schedler property, and the method that will have the highest rate of success is the removal and disposal remediation method. She said that there is no question that the remediation of the Schedler property must take place, at considerable expense. She said that the Village will abide by the recommendation made by Matrix New World Engineering regarding the best way to remediate the Schedler property. Councilmember Winograd spoke about the Village’s $2.6 million investment in the historic Zabriskie-Schedler house. She acknowledged that the scheduled remediation will affect the quality of life of the Schedler neighbors. Mr. Kazmark stated that in his discussions with Matrix, it is his understanding that if bioremediation was pursued on the Schedler property, the existing berm would have to be taken apart anyway, just as it would have to be, if the excavation and disposal method were used. The building of the berm by prior Village Councils was meant to serve as a protective barrier between Route 17 and the Schedler property. In addition, the contaminated dirt is being hauled away by a certified hauler with expertise in removing this type of material from properties where soil remediation is being done. The contaminated dirt will be taken to an approved facility for processing. Regarding a replacement for the berm, Mr. Kazmark said that the Village is engaging in ongoing discussions with the Assistant Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) to determine what the best option would be to replace the berm, beyond just a guard rail. Suburban Consulting Engineers will eventually be involved in these discussions as well. Regarding concerns about follow-up testing after the excavation work has been completed, Mr. Kazmark stated that Matrix explained at the community meeting held on November 13, 2025 that the NJDEP does 9 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025 not require testing after remediation work has been completed, since all of the required testing is done before the remediation takes place. The depth and width parameters of the excavation work have already been delineated. It was determined by Matrix that these parameters would render the Schedler property clean after the remediation work, obviating the necessity for further soil testing. Mr. Kazmark stated that Matrix has also advised him that regardless of the remediation method used on the Schedler property, the 35 trees in the delineated contaminated area would still need to be removed. Mayor Vagianos emphasized that the remediation plan recommended by Matrix New World Engineering has been approved by the NJDEP, which has very stringent guidelines regarding remediation. He said that although Matrix was hired by the Village to do the remediation work on the Schedler property, Matrix has to abide by the guidelines set forth by the NJDEP. When the Village broached the idea of using the bioremediation method to remediate the Schedler property with the NJDEP, the representatives from the NJDEP said that they could not recommend using that particular method under any circumstances. 4. VILLAGE MANAGER’S REPORT Mr. Kazmark began his Village Manager’s Report by expressing the hope that everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving with friends and family. Regarding the sidewalk project on West Glen Avenue, Mr. Kazmark said that a letter was sent out before Thanksgiving updating affected residents as to the status of the project. In October, Resolution #25-414 was approved by the Village Council, which authorized the purchase of decorative modular concrete retaining wall blocks, selected by the Engineering Department. On November 12, 2025, Resolution #25-448 was adopted by the Village Council, which awarded the geotechnical and civil engineering design services needed to build the retaining walls. It is expected that this work will begin in the next several weeks, with a geotechnical investigation to evaluate subgrade soil conditions at the properties along West Glen Avenue. These geotechnical findings will be used to finalize the retaining wall designs. Mr. Kazmark stated that once the design is complete, it is anticipated that the Village will bid out the construction component of the retaining walls and sidewalks in March of 2026 and will award the project in April 2026. If all goes according to plan, the construction work should begin in the spring of 2026, depending upon the weather. Mr. Kazmark thanked everyone for their patience regarding this complex endeavor. He thanked Mr. Rogers for his assistance in obtaining easement agreements and right-of-access agreements from property owners on West Glen Avenue and Bergen County. 10 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025 Mr. Kazmark reported that the Village received a grant for $259,000.00 from the NJDOT for the resurfacing of West Ridgewood Avenue, from Garber Square to Maltbie Avenue. He thanked New Jersey Senator Kristin Corrado and Assemblymen Chris DePhillips and Al Barlas for their support in helping the Village obtain this grant. Mr. Kazmark said that the overnight parking portal on the Village website was opened this week. He thanked the Police Department and Northwest Bergen Central Dispatch for their assistance in creating this online overnight parking request portal. This will make the reporting of overnight parking easier and more convenient for Ridgewood residents. Individuals with questions regarding this online portal may contact the Village Manager’s Office for assistance. Last Wednesday, Downes Tree Service cut down and donated the Village Christmas tree, which they installed by the train station on the east side. Mr. Kazmark encouraged everyone to attend the tree lighting during Downtown for the Holidays, which will be held on Friday, December 5th, with the tree being lit at 6:45 p.m. Festivities begin at 5:00 p.m. for a special children’s hour, featuring music, arts, crafts, hot cocoa, and more. Last week, the Engineering Department and the Police Department set up a temporary crosswalk on East Ridgewood Avenue near Tatte Bakery and Café (from the Cottage Place lot), in response to safety concerns. This crosswalk will be evaluated in the spring of 2026 to determine whether or not to make it permanent, with new curbing and striping. On November 17, 2025, Mr. Kazmark indicated that the Village hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new accessible playground at Habernickel Park, which is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Mr. Kazmark thanked the Parks and Recreation Department and the Ridgewood ACCESS Committee for their work on this project and for helping to secure a grant in the amount of $68,000.00 from the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, to offset the cost of the playground installation. Mr. Kazmark said that the fittings and installation of the new flood dams on level one of Village Hall have been completed. He thanked the Signal Division for helping to spearhead this effort to protect Village Hall from future flood events. Mr. Kazmark announced that the Village has officially passed the one-million minute mark of the One Million Minutes of Wellness Challenge, the cornerstone of the 2025 Mayor’s Wellness Campaign. He encouraged everyone to keep logging in their minutes until December 5, 2025 by clicking on the Wellness Challenge tab on the Village website. On November 14, 2025, a kickoff meeting was held with Walker Consulting regarding the parking and wayfinding study in the Central Business District (CBD). Objectives were reviewed and they discussed the best way to collect feedback from business owners and from the public at 11 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025 large. It is anticipated that two community meetings will be held after the holiday season to engage the public on the important topic of parking in Ridgewood. Community partners, including the Chamber of Commerce, the Ridgewood Guild, and the Ridgewood Business Alliance will be involved in this study. The goal of this initiative is to make the downtown Ridgewood experience easier and simpler for visitors to the CBD. 5. VILLAGE COUNCIL REPORTS Councilmember Mortimer said that the Open Space Committee met on November 13, 2025 and they celebrated the voter approval of the Municipal Open Space Tax increase at the General Election. They discussed their goals for 2026, and their objectives will be shared with the Village Council. During the meeting, they discussed the clearing of the Green Acres diversion and how grants should be pursued once the Village becomes eligible for them again. On November 20, 2025, the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee (CSAC) met and discussed the intersection of Maple Avenue and Franklin Avenue. During the meeting, the Engineering Department gave a detailed report on their findings regarding that intersection and what improvements can possibly be made to make the area safer. All of the crosswalks are going to be restriped, weather permitting. More permanent striping with thermoplasty will be applied once Maple Avenue is resurfaced. The Police Department reported on the number of accidents at that intersection over a five-year period. Councilmember Mortimer said that the number of accidents during that five-year period is far below the number of accidents that occur at other intersections, such as the intersection of Linwood Avenue and Maple Avenue. In addition, there was only one accident at the intersection of Maple Avenue and Franklin Avenue that involved a pedestrian. During the meeting, they also discussed sight triangle obstruction updates. Three additional properties have been brought into compliance, and one new summons has been issued. There is a total of 121 properties that have been brought into compliance. Regarding the sidewalk project on West Glen Avenue, Councilmember Mortimer said that a purchase order has been issued for the materials for the retaining walls. He said that if anyone wants to see what the materials for the retaining walls look like, they should go to the Chestnut Village Apartments to view the materials used there, on the left side. Councilmember Mortimer said that he attended the New Jersey League of Municipalities conference, along with Deputy Mayor Perron and Councilmember Winograd. They all took the risk management course, which will lower the Village’s insurance premiums. Councilmember Mortimer said that his favorite session was “Governing with AI,” which gave him ideas on ways the Village could become more efficient. Councilmember Winograd encouraged everyone to visit the ADA-compliant playground recently installed in Habernickel Park. She said that there were some inclusionary elements worth noting, including a ramp which affords accessibility to children with mobility issues and a feelings board 12 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025 for nonverbal children. She thanked the members of the ACCESS Committee and the Parks and Recreation Department for their assistance in this project. Councilmember Winograd said that Jake’s Law grants are available, and the ACCESS Committee would like to see the installation of another inclusionary playground in Ridgewood. Councilmember Winograd thanked Ms. Mailander and her office staff for making all of the arrangements for Councilmember Winograd, Councilmember Mortimer, and Deputy Mayor Perron to attend the New Jersey League of Municipalities meeting. Councilmember Winograd said that the planters in the CBD have now been winterized with seasonal decorations such as balsam fir. She said that this will prevent people from using the planters as trash receptacles. She thanked the Ridgewood Beautification Team and the volunteers who assisted in this endeavor. Councilmember Winograd noted that the kissing balls and snowflakes have been installed in the CBD as well. She encouraged residents to notify her if they notice any lights out on these decorations. Councilmember Winograd stated that she attended the Fields Committee meeting this week. Since the playing fields in Ridgewood are overutilized, the Board of Education and the Village will extend the closure of the fields until March 30, 2026, two weeks later than normal. During the Fields Committee meeting, they discussed the World Cup. She said that there is a group of soccer enthusiasts who are trying to organize a Watch Party for the World Cup home opening game on June 12, 2026. She welcomes any ideas from the public and asked for volunteers. Councilmember Winograd said that the World Cup event will impact New Jersey in many ways, including traffic congestion and demands for lodging. Councilmember Winograd thanked the interfaith community in Ridgewood for inviting her and others to a recent interfaith (nondenominational) service at the Old Paramus Reformed Church. This interfaith service is held every year on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving. Councilmember Winograd congratulated Cole Dushang, a student at Lafayette College and former intern for the Village who worked on the parks inventory process. He won the Patriot League Men’s Final in soccer. Councilmember Winograd said that she was especially proud of this young man, both scholastically and athletically, since she herself is a Lafayette College alumnus. Councilmember Winograd reminded everyone that a sensory-friendly tree lighting will take place on Monday, December 8th, which is held especially for neurodivergent children who are sensitive to noise and crowds. She thanked the Signal Division and Ridgewood Station Café for their assistance in this regard. 13 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025 The Stigma-Free Committee is running a program called “Cards of Joy,” in which members of the public write out cards that are delivered to seniors in Ridgewood. Councilmember Winograd stated that although the holidays are a time to celebrate, the holidays are also a time to help others as a good neighbor. Councilmember Weitz said that the Library Board of Trustees met recently and praised the work of its members. He echoed Councilmember Winograd’s comments about how wonderful the recent interfaith service was at the Old Paramus Reformed Church. Deputy Mayor Perron said that any doubts about the worthwhileness of the new ADA-compliant playground at Habernickel Prak were dispelled even before the ribbon-cutting ceremony by glancing at the happy faces of the children in attendance. Deputy Mayor Perron indicated that the Ridgewood Business Alliance (RBA) is in full startup mode. She reminded everyone that the RBA is not a Village committee, but is rather an independent entity, and one member of the local government sits on the Board of Directors. Deputy Mayor Perron is the member of the governing body who is serving on the RBA Board of Directors. They are currently looking for office space, insurance has been obtained, and they are looking into 501(c)(3) status. The RBA is also searching for an Executive Director and Deputy Mayor Perron welcomed any recommendations of people with great credentials and expertise in marketing and economic development. Deputy Mayor Perron said that the New Jersey League of Municipalities conference is where Village officials receive specialized training and learn of great ideas to govern the Village. Village staff also attend the New Jersey League of Municipalities conference, where they can get continuing education credits for their certifications. The Ridgewood Arts Foundation continues to meet and is in the process of drafting the grant application to the State of New Jersey Department of Community Affairs regarding the former Warner Theater. The Central Business District Advisory Committee (CBDAC) has an opening for someone to serve on this committee. This committee focuses on the downtown area and their next meeting is scheduled for December 11, 2025 at 8:30 a.m., in the Senior Lounge at Village Hall. Mayor Vagianos said that the Downtown for the Holidays events is scheduled for Friday, December 5, 2025, during which time the tree will be lit. This year’s tree will be dedicated to Tony Damiano. Mayor Vagianos said that he was extremely happy that the goal of the One Million Minutes of Wellness Challenge has been met, because it served to get people active in many different ways. 14 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025 He spoke about the many aspects of wellness other than physical wellness, including spiritual wellness and family wellness, and he encouraged everyone to continue being active. Mayor Vagianos said that the interfaith service held recently at the Old Paramus Reformed Church never fails to bring tears to his eyes every time he attends the service. He said that wars have been fought around the world between faiths, and it was heartwarming to see all different faiths gathered together to worship in one service. Mayor Vagianos thanked Councilmember Winograd for the amazing work she and Jaimie Davis have done regarding the organization of sensory-friendly dinners in Ridgewood. He thanked the Fire and Police Departments for showing up at these dinners in uniform, to the delight of the children in attendance. Mayor Vagianos also thanked the Ridgewood Station Café for hosting the most recent sensory-friendly dinner. Mayor Vagianos said that on Friday, December 5, 2025, the ribbon cutting for the newly reinstalled Kingsbridge Lane Pedestrian Bridge will take place at 11:00 a.m. Mayor Vagianos said that Arturo Lewis is a local resident and currently serves as the Reverend for the Bethlehem Lutheran Church. Mr. Lewis’s son attended Ridgewood High School. Mayor Vagianos described Reverend Lewis as a giant in the community. He said that Reverend Lewis will be retiring and moving to California to live with his son. Mayor Vagianos said that the hole created by Reverend Lewis’s absence will be difficult to fill. He wished Reverend Lewis the best of luck in the future. 6. DISCUSSION A. RIDGEWOOD WATER 1. AWARD CONTRACT – PFAS LABORATORY ANALYSIS SERVICES Richard Calbi, Director of Ridgewood Water, explained that this matter deals with an award of contract for the annual PFAS Laboratory Analysis Services used by Ridgewood Water. Five bids were received on November 19, 2025, and it is recommended that this contract be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder, Pace Analytical Services, LLC, of Roseville, Minnesota, in an amount not to exceed $77,000.00 for 2026. This vendor has successfully provided laboratory analysis services in the past for Ridgewood Water. Funding is contained in the Water Utility Operating Budget. 15 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025  2. AWARD CONTRACT – SERVICING AND REPAIR OF ELECTRIC SOURCE Mr. Calbi explained that this matter deals with an award of contract for the servicing and repair of electric source for Ridgewood Water. Two bids were received on November 19, 2025, and it is recommended that year one of a two-year contract be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder, Vanore Electric, Inc., of Hackensack, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $250,000.00 annually for 2026 and 2027. Funding is contained in the Water Utility Operating Budget. 3. AWARD CONTRACT – LANDSCAPING SERVICES Mr. Calbi explained that this matter deals with an award of contract for landscaping services for Ridgewood Water. Two bids were received on November 19, 2025. The services provided will include spring cleanup, edging, trimming, debris cleanup, mowing, fall cleanup, and gutter cleaning at facility locations (well houses, pump houses, tank sites and offices). It is recommended that year one of a two-year contract be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder, LTI, Inc., of Montville, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $147,495.00 annually for 2026 and 2027. Funding is contained in the Water Utility Operating Budget. Deputy Mayor Perron said that the Board of Education sent out a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a landscaper that uses electric-powered leaf blowers, and a big contract was awarded. Mr. Calbi said that he has a copy of the contract and he will look at this for future landscaping services for Ridgewood Water. 4. AWARD CONTRACT – PIPE AND APPURTENANCES Mr. Calbi explained that this matter deals with an award of contract for the purchase of pipes and appurtenances, such as valves and hydrants, for the years 2026 and 2027 for Ridgewood Water. Those materials are necessary to facilitate repairs and replacements to the water distribution system. Three bids were received on November 19, 2025. It is recommended that this contract be awarded on a per-unit basis (all bid sections) to Capitol Supply Construction Products, LLC, of Wayne, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $415,000.00. Funding is contained in the Water Utility Operating Budget. 5. AWARD CONTRACT – FURNISHING AND DELIVERING SODIUM HYPOCHLORITE Mr. Calbi explained that this matter deals with an award of contract for the furnishing and delivery of sodium hypochlorite for Ridgewood Water for the years 2026 and 2027. One bid was received on November 19, 2025. The addition of sodium hypochlorite into the water system is necessary to meet regulatory requirements and ensure safe drinking water for the public. Sodium 16 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025 hypochlorite is equivalent to household bleach and is effective at killing any waterborne bacteria and viruses. It is recommended that this contract be awarded to the sole responsible bidder, Miracle Chemical Company, Inc., of Farmingdale, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $121,950.00, based upon Ridgewood Water using up to 50,000 gallons of this chemical in 2026, at a cost of $2.439 per gallon, to be renewed on an annual basis. Funding is contained in the Water Utility Operating Budget. Deputy Mayor Perron asked if this contract was less expensive than last year, and Mr. Calbi replied that it was. The current contract with PVS has a unit price of $2.48 per gallon, which expires December 31, 2025. 6. AWARD CONTRACT – LABORATORY ANALYSIS SERVICES Mr. Calbi explained that this matter deals with an annual award of contract for laboratory analysis services (other than PFAS) for Ridgewood Water for the years 2025 and 2026. Three bids were received on November 13, 2025. It is recommended that year two of a two-year contract be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder, Pace Analytical Services, LLC, of Fairfield, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $177,755.00 for 2026. Funding is contained in the Water Utility Operating Budget. 7. AWARD CONTRACT – COLD WATER METERS AND ACCESSORIES Mr. Calbi explained that this matter deals with an annual award of contract for the purchase of cold water meters and accessories for Ridgewood Water for the years 2025 and 2026. One bid was received on November 13, 2025. It is recommended that year two of a two-year contract be awarded to the sole responsible bidder, Rio Supply, Inc., of Sicklerville, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $263,451.70 for 2026. Funding is contained in the Water Utility Operating Budget. 8. AWARD CONTRACT – INFRARED ASPHALT SURFACE REPAIR Mr. Calbi explained that this matter deals with an annual award of contract for infrared surface repair services for Ridgewood Water for the years 2025 and 2026. On January 15, 2025, the Village awarded a one-year contract for these services to Atlantic Infrared, Inc., of Wall, New Jersey. This contract allows for the granting of two one-year renewal options for 2026 and 2027. Atlantic has provided excellent service and has requested to use the option of renewing and extending their contract for 2026. It is recommended that option year 2026 be awarded to Atlantic Infrared, Inc., in an amount not to exceed $150,000.00 for 2026. Funding is contained in the Water Utility Operating Budget. 17 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025  9. AWARD CONTRACT – WATER SERVICE LINE REPLACEMENTS – MAIN TO CURB Mr. Calbi explained that this matter deals with an annual award of contract for water service line replacements (main to curb lead service lines) for Ridgewood Water for the years 2025 and 2026. On January 15, 2025, the Village awarded a one-year contract to ConQuest Construction for water service line replacements, which expires December 31, 2025. This contract allows for the granting of two one-year renewal options for 2026 and 2027. ConQuest Construction has provided reliable service and has requested to use the option of renewing and extending their contract for 2026. It is recommended that option year 2026 be awarded to ConQuest Construction Inc., of Hackensack, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $150,000.00. Funding is contained in the Water Utility Capital Budget. 10. AWARD CONTRACT – TREE MAINTENANCE SERVICES Mr. Calbi explained that this matter deals with an annual award of contract for tree maintenance services for Ridgewood Water for the years 2025 and 2026. It is recommended that year two of the two-year contract be awarded to Almstead Tree and Shrub Care Co., LLC, of North Haledon, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $80,000.00 for 2026. Funding is contained in the Water Utility Operating Budget. Councilmember Mortimer noted that this tree maintenance contract is being awarded to a different vendor than the one used by the Village for tree maintenance services. He asked if Ridgewood Water could use the services of the vendor used by the Village, or if these contracts must be separate. Mr. Calbi said that it is an accounting issue since the Water Utility covers a much larger area, over four different municipalities. Councilmember Winograd said that the Village has a lower budget for tree maintenance than Ridgewood Water does, since the Village performs some tree maintenance in-house. Mr. Kazmark added that from an auditing standpoint, he tries to keep the two work efforts separate (for the Village and for Ridgewood Water), because some expenses are paid through the Water Utility Budget and some are paid through the Village’s General Fund. However, Mr. Kazmark said that he could certainly talk to the vendor in this regard, to see if a better price could be obtained by bidding both contracts together. 11. AWARD CONTRACT – ASPHALT TRENCH REPAIR Mr. Calbi explained that this matter deals with an annual award of contract for asphalt trench patching for Ridgewood Water for the year 2026. On January 15, 2025, the Village awarded a one-year contract for these services to ConQuest Construction which will expire on December 31, 2025. This contract allows for the granting of two one-year renewal options for 2026 and 18 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025 2027. ConQuest has provided reliable service and has requested to use the option of renewing and extending their contract for 2026. It is recommended that optional year 2026 be awarded to ConQuest Construction Inc., of Hackensack, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $200,000.00 for 2026. Funding is contained in the Water Utility Operating Budget. 12. AWARD CONTRACT – CONCRETE PAVEMENT AND SIDEWALK RESTORATION Mr. Calbi explained that this matter deals with an annual award of contract for concrete pavement and sidewalk restoration services for Ridgewood Water for the years 2025 and 2026. On January 15, 2025, the Village awarded a one-year contract for these services to ConQuest Construction which will expire on December 31, 2025. This contract allows for the granting of two one-year renewal options for 2026 and 2027. ConQuest has provided reliable service and has requested to use the option of renewing and extending their contract for 2026. It is recommended that optional year 2026 be awarded to ConQuest Construction Inc., of Hackensack, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $100,000.00 for 2026. Funding is contained in the Water Utility Operating Budget. 13. AWARD CONTRACT – WATER BILLING AND DATA COLLECTION SERVICES Mr. Calbi explained that this matter deals with an annual award of contract for water billing and data collection services for Ridgewood Water for 2026. On July 13, 2022, the Village awarded a three-year contract for these services to Computil, Inc., for the years 2022, 2023 and 2024. This contract allows for the granting of two one-year renewal options for 2025 and 2026. Computil Inc. has provided excellent service each year and has requested to use the option of renewing and extending their contract for 2026, which is the final extension, with a new bid required for 2027. The contract for 2025 carried an annual fee of $343,068.00. Due to increases in postage and operational costs, the annual fee for 2026 is $345,700.00. It is recommended that optional year 2026 be awarded to Computil, Inc., of Shelton, Connecticut, in an amount not to exceed $345,700.00 for 2026. Funding is contained in the Water Utility Operating Budget. 14. AWARD CONTRACT UNDER EDUCATIONAL SERVICES COMMISSION OF NJ COOPERATIVE PRICING SYSTEM – SECURITY UPGRADES VARIOUS FACILITIES Mr. Calbi explained that this matter deals with an annual award of contract, under the Educational Services Commission of New Jersey Cooperative Pricing System, for Phase 2 security upgrades at various water facilities. These security improvements will cover the West End, East Ridgewood and Wortendyke PFAS Treatment Facilities. The improvements will consist of security cameras and door access controls. The purchase of these improvements will 19 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025 serve as an expansion to Ridgewood Water’s existing Gentec security management system. These improvements are necessary to complement the construction of the new PFAS treatment facilities. It is recommended that this contract be awarded to Open Systems Integrators, Inc., of Hamilton, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $244,025.82. Funding is contained in the Water Utility Capital Budget. 15. APPROVAL OF FINAL PAYMENT AND CLOSEOUT – 20 INCH DIP WATER MAIN Mr. Calbi stated that this item deals with approval of a final payment and closeout of a project completed along the Dunham Trail in Ridgewood. In June 2025, Ridgewood Water contracted with Colonnelli Brothers to stabilize approximately 300 linear feet of the westerly bank of the Ho-Ho-Kus Brook along the Dunham Trail, between Spring Avenue and Grove Street in Ridgewood, where an existing 20-inch ductile iron water main had been exposed by severe erosion over several years. The low bid was not to exceed $347,100.00, and the total cost of the project was $281,850.00. The project was substantially complete in July 2025, with final restoration of the construction access at Arden Court and tree plantings along the trail completed in early November 2025. Mr. Calbi recommends issuing final payment and closeout to the contractor for this project, Colonnelli Brothers, Inc., of Hackensack, New Jersey, in the amount of $25,237.00. 16. EXECUTE IN-KIND AGREEMENT WITH NEW JERSEY INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, CENTER FOR TRANSLATION RESEARCH - INNOVATIONS RELATED TO PFAS Mr. Calbi said that this matter deals with a request by Ridgewood Water to participate in an In- Kind Agreement with the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), Center for Translational Research, in the interest of scientific advancement and developing innovations for PFAS testing and treatment. In lieu of a cash commitment, Ridgewood Water would commit to $2,500.00 of in-kind services for the first year and $5,000.00 of in-kind services for any subsequent year. In- kind services would include the use of Ridgewood Water’s sources and facilities by NJIT to test their inventions, and sampling and testing by Ridgewood Water to verify NJIT’s methods. NJIT is working on groundbreaking technologies to accelerate the detection of PFAS and for destruction of PFAS, which may extend the life of the treatment media being used by Ridgewood Water. It is recommended that Ridgewood Water enter into this In-Kind Agreement with NJIT, providing them with $2,500.00 worth of services for the first year and $5,000.00 worth of services for any subsequent year. The Village Councilmembers were very supportive of this venture. 20 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025  17. DETERMINE FORM AND OTHER DETAILS OF NOTES RELATING TO CONSTRUCTION FINANCING LOAN PROGRAM OF THE NJ INFRASTRUCTURE BANK FOR EASTSIDE, MAIN, AND MOUNTAIN PFAS TREATMENT FACILITIES Mr. Calbi explained that this matter pertains to short-term loan approvals through the New Jersey Infrastructure Bank (I-Bank) for the Eastside PFAS Treatment Facility in Ridgewood, the Main PFAS Treatment Facility in Glen Rock, and the Mountain PFAS Treatment Facility in Wyckoff. In order to finance construction of three of the final four PFAS Treatment Facilities, short-term loans are required through the I-Bank. Mr. Calbi indicated that all three of these projects have already been appropriated via Bond Ordinances. Upon questioning by Deputy Mayor Perron, Mr. Calbi explained that Ridgewood Water borrows the money from the I-Bank on a short-term basis and none of it is paid back until the project is done and operating. 18. PROPERTY EASEMENT AGREEMENT – 535 EAST RIDGEWOOD AVENUE Mr. Calbi stated that this item pertains to the execution of an Easement Agreement on property located at 535 East Ridgewood Avenue, so that Ridgewood Water can construct water main infrastructure that will connect the Irving Well to the Prospect PFAS Treatment Facility in Glen Rock. The easement agreement with East Ridgewood Avenue, LLC, the property owner, has been prepared and must be executed by the Village of Ridgewood, upon finalization. 19. DETERMINE FORM AND OTHER DETAILS OF NOTES RELATING TO THE CONSTRUCTION FINANCING LOAN PROGRAM OF THE NJ INFRASTRUCTURE BANK FOR VARIOUS WATER UTILITY INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS INCLUDING LEAD SERVICE LINE REPLACEMENTS Mr. Calbi stated that this matter deals with lead service line replacements and funding through the I-Bank in the amount of $18,800,000.00. He said that this is fully authorized by a prior Bond Ordinance and deals with the short-term note authorization for the I-Bank. Work has begun on this project. Mr. Calbi expressed the hope that this project will not cost close to $18.8 million upon completion. 21 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025  B. PARKING 1. AMEND CHAPTER 265 – VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC – INSTALL MIDBLOCK CROSSWALK EAST RIDGEWOOD AVENUE AND COTTAGE PLACE LOT Mr. Kazmark said that Police Chief Forest Lyons approached him a while ago with concerns about people crossing from the Cottage Place parking lot across East Ridgewood Avenue, near Tatte Bakery. Several police officers reported increased pedestrian traffic in that area to Chief Lyons. Signage had been installed directing pedestrians to the nearest crosswalk about 30 to 50 feet away, which was relatively unsuccessful. After discussions with the Engineering Department and Police Department, Mr. Kazmark said that they decided to install a temporary mid-block crosswalk. The crosswalk was made with two concrete blocks (usually used for the dining corrals) with reflective markings to establish a temporary bump-out, to shorten the crosswalk area. Mr. Kazmark stated that this temporary crosswalk will be tested out over the holidays to see how it works. If the pilot program is successful, the Engineering Department will make the crosswalk permanent with concrete curbs and a bump-out. Mr. Kazmark said that reaction to the temporary crosswalk over the past week has been positive. Councilmember Winograd asked if the concrete barriers would get snow markers, to warn snowplows of their existence. Sergeant Tarino said that they will have to put out some tall bollards to warn the plows that the concrete barriers are there. Mr. Kazmark added that he has already discussed the presence of the concrete barriers by the crosswalk with the Streets Division, so they are aware of their presence. Councilmember Winograd also asked if crosswalks are made out of brick anymore, since the use of brick would define the crosswalk and enhance pedestrian safety by making the crosswalk more visual through the differentiation of color and texture. Mr. Kazmark said that this would have to be answered by the Engineering Department and could certainly be done at the time of the resurfacing of East Ridgewood Avenue. Deputy Mayor Perron recalled that approximately 20 years ago, the crosswalk by the Ridgewood Post Office that went across East Ridgewood Avenue had a shiny element to it that she loved. Sergeant Tarino said that there were red strobe lights that would be illuminated at night on the crosswalk. He said that he was not sure why the Village did not continue to use them. When asked by Deputy Mayor Perron if the plows destroyed them, Sergeant Tarino said that the strobes were low to the ground, at an angle, so he did not think the plows destroyed them. He reiterated that he did not know why the strobes were not used anymore. Councilmember Winograd said that it would be a good idea to use something similar to the strobes at the mid-block crosswalk. 22 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025 When Mayor Vagianos asked Sergeant Tarino how he felt about the temporary crosswalk, Sergeant Tarino said that the volume of pedestrians crossing East Ridgewood Avenue in that location has increased tremendously, especially by people using the Cottage Place parking lot. Sergeant Tarino said that he is in favor of the crosswalk to enhance pedestrian safety. He said that they had to take away two parking spots, and he would recommend taking away one or two more, so that there are no line of sight issues. 2. COMMUTER PARKING AT RIDGEWOOD TRAIN STATION (STATION PLAZA) Ms. Mailander explained that the last time this matter was discussed at a Village Council meeting, it was late in the evening, so it was decided to revisit the matter this evening. Ms. Mailander discussed this matter at a meeting with Mr. Kazmark; Robert Rooney, Parking Utility Director; Aarika Will, Municipal Court Administrator; Police Captain Glenn Ender; and Sergeant Ray Tarino, of the Ridgewood Police Department Traffic Safety Bureau. The following recommendations resulted from that meeting. Sergeant Tarino stated that he and his team spend a lot of time on parking and signage issues. He sees a lot of issues with Parking Enforcement Officers (PEOs) that can be alleviated through clearer signage. He said that they are not doing the best job at creating rules that can be easily understood. Most of the people who park in Station Plaza are commuters who are trying to go into New York City. There are three groups of individuals who use the lot: commuters who are paying properly to use the commuter lot (by purchasing a premium parking permit); people who think that they can park there based upon how they’re reading the signage, but who eventually get a summons; and individuals who are “rolling the dice” to see if they’ll get a summons or not, since it is cheaper to pay a $30.00 fine than to pay for parking, tolls and congestion pricing in New York City. In order to eliminate the confusion encountered by people parking in Station Plaza, Sergeant Tarino is recommending that there be clear signage stating “Commuter Parking by Permit Only. The fee structure will change slightly and Ms. Will has recommended that the fine be raised to $50.00. Sergeant Tarino feels that this increased fine would deter people from parking in Station Plaza without a proper permit. When people do this, they take that spot away from someone who rightfully paid for a parking permit. Sergeant Tarino would like to simplify the parking at Station Plaza by making it a commuter lot by permit only until 3:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. After 3:00 p.m., anyone will be allowed to pay to park in Station Plaza through 8:00 p.m. On Saturdays, anyone will be able to park in Station Plaza, by using Parkmobile, paying at the kiosk, using a parking permit or one-day pass, for up to eight hours, since the meters run from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturdays. 23 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025 Upon questioning by Councilmember Mortimer, Sergeant Tarino clarified that people only have to pay for metered parking at Station Plaza until 8:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, and they can park there all night, up to overnight hours. Councilmember Weitz said that he was in favor of increasing the fine to $50.00 for overtime parking. He feels that this will dissuade people from parking in the lot without a proper parking permit. Deputy Mayor Perron added that parking is free on Sundays and anyone can park in the Station Plaza parking lot. Councilmember Winograd asked about the businesses on the west side of the Train Station. Sergeant Tarino said that they did a two-week study of that specific commuter lot. It is packed with commuters from Monday through Thursday, and it starts to quiet down around the evening hours. Councilmember Winograd then had a discussion with Sergeant Tarino about how many 15-minute meters are located on the west side, by Garber Square and West Ridgewood Avenue. Mr. Kazmark said that when he and Deputy Mayor Perron met with a representative from Walker Consultants, one of the topics they discussed was reviewing the 15-minute parking spaces in Ridgewood. He mentioned that some business owners would prefer longer-duration parking adjacent to their storefront. Mayor Vagianos asked Sergeant Tarino what the Station Plaza parking lot looks like on Saturdays. Sergeant Tarino replied that the lot is pretty empty on Saturdays and it is not being utilized to its full potential. He believes this is because there is a three-hour parking limit in Station Plaza. If someone wants to go to the city on a Saturday, the only lot that affords more than three-hour parking is the Cottage Place lot, which is about a four-or five-block walk from the train station. Sergeant Tarino said that the lot is not completely filled on Saturday evenings, but during holidays he has seen it completely filled up. Upon further questioning by Mayor Vagianos, Sergeant Tarino stated that the Station Plaza lot is very empty and only filled to about 10% to 15% of capacity during the day on Saturday, up until about 5:00 p.m. when people are deciding to go into the city or restaurants are opening. Mayor Vagianos asked about opening up the Station Plaza lot around noontime Monday through Friday, instead of at 3:00 p.m., so that people can park there during lunch. A discussion ensued about the pros and cons of doing so. Sergeant Tarino said that the parking spots at Station Plaza really do not open up until at least 3:00 p.m., and most likely it would be 5:00 p.m. before any spots would become available. There was a consensus that the proposed parking regulations and fine increase would be acceptable. 24 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025  C. BUDGET 1. AWARD CONTRACT – LANDFILL DISPOSAL OF SOLID WASTE Mr. Calbi stated that on November 19, 2025, two bids were received by Ridgewood Water regarding landfill disposal of solid waste. The new rate is unchanged from the current contract rate for 2024-2025 at $91.88 per ton, which expires on December 31, 2025. The average tonnage disposed of per year over the last several years is 8,620 tons. 2. AUTHORIZE EMERGENCY AWARD OF CONTRACT - REPAIR OF SANITARY SEWER LINE – CORSA TERRACE Mr. Kazmark stated that this matter pertains to authorization of an emergency award of contract for repair of a sanitary sewer line at Corsa Terrace. Between November 5 and November 13, 2025, a damaged and compromised sewer pipe was discovered in Corsa Terrace, which resulted in four releases of effluent. During efforts to clear the pipe, the Water Pollution Control Facility (WPCF) got their sewer jet truck and camera stuck in the pipe. The Borough of Ho-Ho-Kus Department of Public Works was called for assistance, and they assisted the Village with their hydro-excavator and other equipment. It was determined that the sanitary sewer line in Corsa Terrace was damaged and compromised to the extent that it needed to be replaced immediately. J.A. Alexander, Inc., the contractor performing the work of the Village’s capital paving program in 2025, was contacted to make the necessary repairs. Jovan Mehandzic, Assistant Engineer, noted at the location that the sanitary sewer was compromised and damaged by the installation of a natural gas main by Public Service Electric & Gas (PSE&G) in 2020, and the Village is exploring its insurance options concerning this situation. Due to the emergency situation, a resolution is needed to award the emergency work, which has already been completed, to J.A. Alexander, Inc., of Bloomfield, New Jersey, in the amount of $113,215.87. 3. AUTHORIZE CHANGE ORDER – PROFESSIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES – LABORATORY ANALYSIS OF COLLECTED SAMPLES RELATED TO THE REMOVAL OF ABANDONED UNDERGROUND FUEL STORAGE TANKS – NORTH WALNUT STREET PARKING LOT Mr. Kazmark stated that this item pertains to the authorization of a Change Order for professional environmental services regarding laboratory analysis of collected samples related to the removal of abandoned underground fuel storage tanks at the North Walnut Street parking lot. Mr. Kazmark stated that there were 11 abandoned fuel storage tanks removed from this location. 25 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025 The contractor encountered significant quantities of contaminated soil and groundwater that had to be removed, under the oversight of an LSRP, to address the contamination. The closure of the underground storage tanks also had to be documented with the NJDEP. The next phase of work is an investigation to determine the offsite impacts from the soil contamination. This will require installation of groundwater monitoring wells with periodic sampling. It is recommended that this Change Order be approved in the amount of $65,879.90 to VHB, Inc. (formerly Brinkerhoff Environmental). Councilmember Mortimer asked if there will be any further associated costs with this project, and Mr. Kazmark replied that he did not think so, but it really depends upon what the results are of the environmental testing and what the NJDEP requires the Village to do, to bring the property into compliance. 4. AUTHORIZE CHANGE ORDER - PROFESSIONAL SERVICES – TAX EXEMPTION MATTERS RELATED TO PROPERTIES OWNED BY VALLEY HOSPITAL Mr. Kazmark stated that this item pertains to the authorization of a Change Order for professional services regarding tax exemption matters related to properties owned by Valley Hospital. Martin Allen, Esq., of the firm of DiFrancesco, Bateman, Kunzman, Davis, Lehrer and Flaum, PC, has been assisting the Village with their tax exemption matters as they relate to properties owned by Valley Hospital in Ridgewood. Due to the nature of the work, the anticipated billings for calendar year 2025 will exceed the initial award, and it is requested that a Change Order in the amount of $10,000.00 be approved for this work through the end of 2025. 5. AUTHORIZE SHARED SERVICES AGREEMENT – MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR OF VEHICLES (PARAMUS) Mr. Kazmark explained that this matter pertains to the authorization of a Shared Services Agreement for maintenance and repair of vehicles between the Village and the Borough of Paramus. This proposed resolution will continue the agreement for maintenance and repair of the Ridgewood Police Department motorcycles for 2026, since the Village does not have any certified mechanics who can perform this work. 6. TRANSFER PORTIONS OF OPIOID ABATEMENT FUNDS THROUGH A MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE STATE OF NEW JERSEY AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS ON OPIOID LITIGATION RECOVERIES WITH THE COUNTY OF BERGEN AND THE RIDGEWOOD BOARD OF EDUCATION Mr. Kazmark stated that this matter pertains to the transfer of portions of opioid abatement funds through a Memorandum of Agreement between the State of New Jersey and local governments 26 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025 on opioid litigation recoveries with the County of Bergen and Ridgewood Board of Education. The receipt and appropriation of $100,000.00 by the Village will be used by the Board of Education via school assemblies, student surveys, community awareness events, Narcan training and distribution. Such services will educate residents about the impact of opioid use and misuse, harm reduction services, addiction treatment and social services that address opioid issues. The funds will also be used by the County of Bergen to provide funds for their established Opioid Remediation Programs. 7. 2025 BUDGET APPROPRIATION TRANSFERS Mr. Kazmark said that this item deals with approval of 2025 budget appropriation transfers. The transfers for deficiencies are for expenditures, which must be made so that the Village can meet its financial obligations for the current year. Mr. Kazmark stated that the transfers, amounting to $608,900.00, will be transferred to the General Operating Accounts, with a transfer of $200.00 in the Water Utility and $955.00 in the Parking Utility. 8. CHAPTER 159 – BUDGET AMENDMENT – GRANT FROM STATE OF NEW JERSEY DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES – DIVISION OF DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING GRANT Mr. Kazmark said that this item deals with a 2025 budget amendment resolution for a State grant awarded to the Village but not yet appropriated. This resolution permits the Village to add grant revenue and appropriation to the 2025 budget. The grant, from the New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Deaf and Hard of Hearing, in the amount of $70,000.00 will provide funding for the installation of hearing induction loops and retrofitted audio systems in Village Hall. 9. AWARD CONTRACT – HUDSON STREET GARAGE FENCING Mr. Kazmark said that this matter deals with new fencing being installed along the exterior walls on the fourth floor of the Hudson Street Parking Garage, in order to maximize security. Mr. Kazmark said that shortly after he became Village Manager, a resident sent him an image of a person (appeared to be a teenager holding a cell phone) standing very close to the edge of the roof on top of the parking garage. Mr. Kazmark immediately began discussions to determine what security measures would need to be taken at the garage in order to address this concern. On a temporary basis, at the recommendation of the Police Department, the Village hired a private security firm to monitor the garage at times that were provided by the Police Department (during times when an influx of young people frequent the garage). Mr. Kazmark and Robert Rooney, Director of the Parking Utility, both feel that a more permanent solution at the top of the 27 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025 garage is needed to prevent a potential tragedy. It was decided that barriers would be installed along the perimeter of the exterior walls. The choice of materials is limited, due to wind shear impact on the precast walls. EPIC Management Inc., the initial contractor on the parking garage project, was engaged to perform this work, since they have expertise and knowledge of the precast limitations needed to complete this project. EPIC was asked to provide services for the design, product selection and installation. EPIC’s Field Manager and initial project architect, THA Consulting, have designed the allowable screening and location of support posts to maintain the appearance and proper securing to the walls, without impacting the structure integrity. Mr. Kazmark said that this would be a Change Order to the original contract, in an amount not to exceed $350,000.00. There is available capital through the Parking Utility. Mayor Vagianos asked what the screening looks like, and Mr. Kazmark said that he has requested a schematic but has not yet received same. Mr. Kazmark said that he made a commitment to the Monsignor at Mount Carmel Church that the Village would share the schematic with him. He said that the material is decorative and will model the decorative fencing that is in the open areas, along the first floor of the garage. Mayor Vagianos asked if the fencing would be climbable, and Mr. Kazmark stated that it will not be, because it will be short. It will prevent someone from standing on the edge of the garage. Mayor Vagianos asked to see the material beforehand. Mr. Kazmark said that if the Village Council authorizes the resolution, he will ensure that all of the Village Councilmembers have an image of the material before next week. Councilmember Mortimer said that he was supportive of this project, but he felt that $350,000.00 is a lot of money to spend on a fence. Mr. Kazmark said that he has exhausted every option of trying to provide some sort of barrier on the roof of the parking garage. In order for the fencing barrier to be installed properly, while maintaining aesthetics, he believes that what he presented this evening is the only option. Mr. Kazmark added that the top of the garage is a large area. Councilmember Winograd said that she was in favor of this project since safety is such a big concern, for obvious reasons. She suggested that the fence design be reviewed by the Historic Preservation Commission on December 8, 2025. Upon questioning by Councilmember Winograd, Mr. Kazmark replied that the private security firm is still monitoring the garage during certain times of the day and night, but not 24 hours per day. Mayor Vagianos asked if the sidewalk below will be cleared, while the work is being performed at the garage. Mr. Kazmark replied that the contractor would take the necessary safety precautions. Ms. Mailander added that the teenager on top of the garage is not an isolated incident. There was one situation where several teenagers were sitting on the wall. Ms. 28 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025 Mailander said that a tragedy would have occurred if someone came up behind one of these teenagers and scared them. 10. AWARD CONTRACT – INSTALLATION OF HEARING LOOP Mr. Kazmark explained that this item pertains to the award of a contract for the installation of the hearing induction loops to improve the sound for those with hearing deficiencies in the Sydney V. Stoldt, Jr. Court Room, the Patrick A. Mancuso Senior Lounge, and the Annie Zusy Youth Center. The Village was awarded a $70,000.00 grant through the County of Bergen, from the New Jersey Division of Deaf and Hard of Hearing for this purpose. Two quotes were obtained for the supply and installation of this specialized technology, and it is recommended that this contract be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder, Audio Directions, Inc., of Skillman, New Jersey, in an amount not to exceed $62,500.00. 11. ENDORSE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT – VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD – LINING OF SEWER PIPES Mr. Kazmark indicated that this matter deals with the endorsement of a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) in the amount of $450,000.00, for a Village of Ridgewood project to line sewer pipes in designated CDBG streets. The designated area, off of Broad Street, is identified as a CDBG eligible neighborhood. Mr. Kazmark said that he does not anticipate that the Village will receive the sum of $450,000.00, due to limited availability of funds, but the request will be made. 12. AUTHORIZE CHANGE ORDER – VARIOUS HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE PURCHASES Mr. Kazmark stated that this matter pertains to the authorization of a Change Order for Resolution #25-368 (various hardware and software purchases). Dylan Hansen, Director of I.T., indicated in his memorandum that this is a Change Order in the amount of $8,843.75, to the State contract vendor, SHI International. The reason for the increase of expenditure is due to unexpected increases of the software packages in use by the Village. D. POLICY 1. AUTHORIZE ENCROACHMENT AGREEMENT – 102 STANLEY PLACE Mr. Kazmark said that this this item pertains to the authorization of an encroachment agreement regarding 102 Stanley Place (Lot 8, Block 2203). The property owner is seeking to memorialize an existing encroachment their property has into the right-of-way of Stanley Place, which is a 29 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025 very narrow street (20 foot right-of-way). Since the request for the encroachment agreement was received, the wall of the existing encroachment was damaged in a minor motor vehicle accident that occurred on November 5, 2025. It is recommended by Christopher Rutishauser, Village Engineer, that this encroachment agreement be executed by the Village. E. OPERATIONS 1. DECLARE PROPERTY SURPLUS – POLICE VEHICLES Mr. Kazmark stated that this matter deals with the declaration of property as surplus in the Police Department. Lieutenant John Chuck is requesting the removal of cars 13 (2020 Chevy Tahoe), 24 (2018 Chevy Tahoe), and 25 (2017 Chevy Tahoe PPV) from the police fleet and trading them in to Enterprise for fair market value, which will be determined at the time of resale by Enterprise. The value of the trade-in will be credited to the Police Department and will reduce the value of the cars replacing those vehicles, which all have engine damage beyond repair. It is the intention of the Police Department to replace these vehicles with Ford Explorer PPVs. Councilmember Mortimer mentioned that some colleges host charity events in which they have giant sledgehammers that are used by donators to smash junk cars. He wondered if the police vehicles could be used for that purpose. Mr. Kazmark stated that when a vehicle has a residual value, the Village will attempt to get that trade-in value from Enterprise towards the lease of a new vehicle. He added that a car that is junked goes to the Fire Department for training purposes (Jaws of Life and other lifesaving devices). Deputy Mayor Perron said that it was distressing that a 2020 vehicle has to be declared as surplus property, since it is only five years old. Mayor Vagianos said that police vehicles are in continuous use throughout the day and night 7. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC Anne Loving, a resident of Ridgewood, said that the Village Councilmembers always seem to be very uncomfortable while sitting in the chairs at the dais, because they are constantly standing up. She said that the chairs on the floor of the courtroom are very comfortable and she never has to stand up. She suggested that the Village Councilmembers try the chairs on the floor of the courtroom to see if they are more comfortable. Ms. Loving said that she usually walks to Village Council meetings and she loves the pedestrian- activated crosswalk lights to alert drivers of pedestrians, such as the ones on the corner of South Irving Street and East Ridgewood Avenue. She said that more of these lights should be installed around Ridgewood to enhance safety. 30 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025 Ms. Loving said that a few weeks ago, Deputy Mayor Perron spoke about the proper decorum to follow in the courtroom during Village Council meetings and the proper way for the public to address the Village Councilmembers. Ms. Loving feels that the Code of the Village of Ridgewood should not be followed when it comes to the manner of addressing the Village Councilmembers, because sometimes the Village Councilmembers address the public in inappropriate ways. Ms. Loving said that the Village Councilmembers should review the Code and amend it to set forth the manner in which everybody should address everybody. Deputy Mayor Perron said that Code Sections 319 and 320 apply to everyone in the courtroom, but Ms. Loving said that these sections do not read that way. Regarding the aesthetics of the barrier fencing at the top of the Hudson Street Parking Garage, Ms. Loving stated that aesthetics should not be an important factor. She said that safety should be the main concern. She agreed with Councilmember Mortimer that $350,000.00 is a lot of money to spend on this barrier fencing. Regarding the one-minute warning bell that sounds while members of the public are making comments, Ms. Loving said that the bell seems intimidating. She said that most people respect the buzzer when their time is up and does not think that the warning bell is necessary. Boyd A. Loving, a Ridgewood resident and taxpayer, said that he disagrees with Mayor Vagianos’s opinion of the word “silly” (used by a member of the public to describe some of the Schedler neighbors). Mr. Loving said that the Schedler property development is a very sensitive topic for the residents who live in that neighborhood, with some members of the public getting emotional at the podium, when speaking about the Schedler property. He said that it was disrespectful and inappropriate for someone to call the Schedler neighbors “silly” and “crazy.” Mr. Loving requested Mayor Vagianos to respect the emotions and feelings of people who live near the Schedler property, and to halt a member of the public from calling them names. Mayor Vagianos said that he agreed with Mr. Loving. Rurik Halaby, a resident of Ridgewood, said that he misses the emotions of the prior Village Councilmembers when he used to speak at Village Council meetings against turning the Schedler property into a dump. He said that none of the residents who speak against the development of the Schedler property today ever showed up when Mr. Halaby was fighting for the Schedler property. Mr. Halaby said that he used the word “silly” as an idea. When people talk against the development of the Schedler property because there are eagles nesting there, Mr. Halaby said that this was a silly idea, because it is disingenuous. He said that eagles nest near large bodies of water, since they eat fish, and their nests weigh anywhere from one to two tons, which would require all of the trees on the Schedler property to support such a weight. Mr. Halaby said that he was not calling the Schedler neighbors silly, but just the idea that the park could not be developed because there was an eagle’s nest there. With regard to his use of the word “crazy,” 31 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025 Mr. Halaby said that his idea of using solar panels to line Route 17 as being another crazy idea of his. He said that he has bent over backwards to be conciliatory to people with whom he disagrees. Cynthia O’Keefe, a resident of Ridgewood, said that Councilmember Winograd had stated at a prior Village Council meeting that the Village engaged an LSRP for the Schedler property, while prior Village Councils had not. Ms. O’Keefe pointed out that the Village was mandated to hire an LSRP by the NJDEP and the Village did not hire an LSRP of their own volition. Regarding the remediation of the Schedler property, Ms. O’Keefe asked if there was an alert process in place, such as a phone call or emails, to alert Schedler neighbors of impending air dust or whatever. Regarding the 35 trees that are slated for removal on the Schedler property, Ms. O’Keefe asked if the Village Council has a plan to remove various sets of trees and how many trees in total are slated for removal. Ms. O’Keefe asked about transplanting the trees from the berm to the other side of the Schedler property to serve as a buffer zone between the Schedler property and the adjoining residents. She said that transparency is key, and she would like to know how the Village plans to inform Schedler neighbors of the progress of the remediation. There were no further comments from the public. Mr. Kazmark stated that the 35 trees slated for removal from the Schedler property, within the area of excavation, cannot remain in their present location. Regarding relocation of the 80 trees from the berm to the north end of the property, Mr. Kazmark stated that the two rows of trees along the northern end of the property is fully shown on the approved Schedler property schematic/plan and one can clearly see where those trees will be transplanted. 8. RESOLUTION TO GO INTO CLOSED SESSION Ms. Mailander read Resolution #25-471 to go into Closed Session: 32 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025 9. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business to come before the Village Council, on a motion by Councilmember Winograd, seconded by Councilmember Mortimer, and carried unanimously by voice vote, the Village Council’s Regular Public Work Session was adjourned at 9:53 p.m. ____________________________________ Paul Vagianos Mayor ______________________________________ Heather A. Mailander Village Clerk 33 Village Council Regular Public Work Session December 3, 2025