Ridgewood public meetings in 2025

Ridgewood's Access Committee

The Access Ridgewood Committee is meeting to review reports from the Executive Board, Village Council, and SEPAG. Discussions include website updates and planning for Access Week 2026.

• Planning for Access Week 2026
• Updates to the committee website
• Discussion of Sensory-Friendly Dinners
• Reports from the Health Department and Stigma Free

The Access Committee approved the December 19, 2025 meeting minutes. The minutes noted that Access Week 2026 will be held Oct. 13‑18 and that the village is now eligible for Green Acres funding. Members agreed to brainstorm ideas to make the 2026 Fourth of July festivities more inclusive. The next meeting is set for Jan. 16, 2026 at 2:00 pm via Zoom.

• Approved meeting minutes
• Scheduled next meeting for Jan 16, 2026 via Zoom
• Agreed to brainstorm inclusion ideas for Fourth of July festivities

Citizens Safety Advisory Committee

The Citizens Safety Advisory Committee will review updates on e‑bikes, sight‑triangle obstructions, and incident/accident reporting. New business includes discussion of the West side train station parking lot and line‑of‑sight concerns. The meeting also includes a review of CSAC achievements and announcements of upcoming meetings.

• E‑bike updates (RPD)
• Sight triangle obstruction locations updates (Engineering)
• Incident/accident reporting updates (RPD)
• West side train station parking lot (Mortimer)
• Line of sight concerns (Prieto)

The committee elected Jane as the new chair. CSAC formalized a three‑year list of safety achievements to present to the Village Council. Police and Engineering will study the West Side Train Station parking lot in January, and Engineering will assess repainting a faded bike lane. Committee members and the Council liaison will meet with the Village Director of Communications in January to plan monthly safety themes.

• Jane elected chair of CSAC (no vote tally recorded)
• CSAC formalized a three‑year achievements list for the Village Council
• Police and Engineering will study West Side Train Station parking lot in January
• Engineering will assess feasibility of repainting faded bike lane under trestle
• Committee members and Council liaison will meet with Village Director of Communications in January to coordinate monthly safety themes

Village Council Meeting

The council will adopt five land‑use ordinance amendments that create new overlay zones and modify density and affordable‑housing requirements. It will also approve three resolutions by consent agenda: a contract with Axon Enterprise for body‑worn cameras, accessories, digital evidence storage and tasers (NTE $126,929.60); a settlement with Kensington Senior Development for an assisted‑living facility; and a mediation agreement with the Fair Share Housing Center on village density issues. Public comments will be heard before adjournment.

• Ordinance #4071 – Establish S‑1 Senior Overlay Zone on North Maple Avenue between Franklin Ave and Marshall St.
• Ordinance #4072 – Establish TO‑1 Townhouse Overlay at 299 Goffle Road, 15 units/acre, 20% affordable housing
• Ordinance #4073 – Create C‑R‑1 Commercial‑Residential District along Chestnut St north of Robinson Lane, 30 units/acre, 20% affordable housing
• Resolution 25‑562 – Award contract to Axon Enterprise for body‑worn cameras, accessories, digital evidence storage and tasers, NTE $126,929.60
• Resolution 25‑563 – Authorize settlement agreement with Kensington Senior Development for an assisted‑living facility

The Village Council heard remarks from Village Attorney Matthew Rogers and Mayor Paul Vagianos about the ongoing Kensington affordable‑housing litigation and the risk of losing zoning immunity. No votes, approvals, or denials were recorded during this meeting. The council reiterated its prior position to deny ordinances that would permit the Kensington assisted‑living project, but no formal action was taken.

Stigma-Free Committee

The committee will approve previous minutes and recap recent health and wellness events. Members will discuss upcoming clinics and a joint meeting scheduled with the Access Committee.

• Recap of 2025 Senior Health and Wellness Fair
• COVID and Flu Clinic hosted by Hackensack University Medical Center
• Mental Health First Aid Training in Hackensack
• Blood Pressure Clinic at Village Hall Garden Room
• Joint meeting with Access Committee on January 16, 2026

The committee approved the previous meeting minutes after a motion by Shelia Brogan and a second by Dan Kilday. Members recapped recent health events and discussed the state‑cleared diversion for a potential inclusionary playground. The group decided to cancel the January 20 meeting and hold a joint meeting with the Access Committee on January 16. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved meeting minutes (motion by Shelia Brogan, seconded by Dan Kilday)
• Cancelled Jan 20 meeting; scheduled joint meeting with Access Committee on Jan 16

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council is holding a special public meeting. The agenda consists of procedural items and a closed session to discuss legal matters regarding affordable housing.

• Closed session regarding legal matters for affordable housing

Central Business District Advisory Committee

The Central Business District Advisory Committee will approve the minutes from its November 13, 2025 Zoom meeting, update membership and introduce the 2026 schedule, and hear updates from the Village Council, Chamber of Commerce, Ridgewood Guild, and other groups. The committee will discuss 2026 priorities, including empty‑storefront ordinance proposals, parking subcommittee scope, recommendations for the preferred Town Garage on the Franklin Avenue corridor, and coordination on crosswalks and e‑bike outreach. Miscellaneous items include a decision on a Costco approval, construction projects in the CBD, new businesses, and the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The meeting will conclude with public comment and adjourn.

• Approve minutes of the November 13, 2025 Zoom meeting
• Consider empty‑storefront ordinance(s) as a legislative initiative
• Discuss recommendations for preferred Town Garage use on Franklin Avenue corridor
• Review scope of the Parking Subcommittee’s continued efforts
• Decision on Costco approval

The council approved the minutes from the November 13, 2025 meeting. It also approved dining corrals for the 2026 summer season at a rate of $315 per parking space per month, running from May 1 to October 31. Several members were reappointed to the CBD Advisory Committee through December 2027, including the Ridgewood Guild liaison and three other members.

• Approved November 13, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approved dining corrals for 2026 at $315 per parking space per month (May 1 – Oct 31)
• Reappointed Niena J. as Ridgewood Guild liaison to CBDAC through Dec 2027
• Reappointed Don Axelband (business owner) to CBDAC through Dec 2027
• Reappointed Gary D. (resident) to CBDAC through Dec 2027
• Reappointed Stacey T. (CBD property owner) to CBDAC through Dec 2027

Village Council Meeting

The Ridgewood Village Council will approve contracts for water utility services and infrastructure projects, including a $10 million loan for an Eastside PFAS treatment facility. The meeting will also introduce ordinances regarding traffic safety and commuter parking at the train station.

• Award contract for Annual PFAS Laboratory Analysis Services (NTE $77,000)
• Authorize execution of in-kind agreement with NJIT for PFAS detection (NTE $7,500)
• Determine form of notes for Main PFAS Treatment Facility ($4.6 million)
• Amend traffic code to install mid-block crosswalk on East Ridgewood Avenue
• Introduce ordinance for commuter parking at Ridgewood Train Station

The Village Council accepted the Bills, Claims, Vouchers and Statement of Funds as of November 30, 2025. The council also approved the minutes from the October 22, November 5, and November 12, 2025 meetings. Both actions received unanimous support from all five council members.

• Accepted Bills, Claims, Vouchers and Statement of Funds (Nov 30, 2025) – AYES: Mortimer, Perron, Weitz, Winograd, Vagianos; NAYS: none
• Approved minutes of Oct 22, Nov 5, Nov 12, 2025 – AYES: Mortimer, Perron, Weitz, Winograd, Vagianos; NAYS: none

Village Council Meeting

The Ridgewood Village Council will hold a special public meeting on December 10, 2025. After routine items such as call to order, roll call, and public comments, the council will consider a contract negotiation for electric procurement for Ridgewood Water. The meeting may move to a closed session before adjournment.

• Contract negotiation – electric procurement for Ridgewood Water
• Resolution to go into closed session
• Comments from the public
• Roll call
• Adjournment

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will meet to discuss the endorsement of a Community Development Block Grant for floor replacement at 104 Cottage Place. The body will also consider approving holiday parking in the Central Business District.

• Community Development Block Grant endorsement for SHARE, Inc. at 104 Cottage Place for floor replacement
• Approval of holiday parking in the Central Business District

Shade Tree Commission

The Shade Tree Commission will meet to review reports on local greenery and tree maintenance. Discussions include the 3, 30, 300 urban tree canopy goal and the Daffodil Fest. The body will also address ivy removal and strip plantings.

• 3, 30, 300 urban tree canopy and Daffodil Fest planting options
• Ivy removal permissions
• Strip plantings and riparian way
• GIS and Sapling Sanctuary update
• High School Green Team report

The Shade Tree Commission approved the minutes from the November 10, 2025 meeting. No other motions were adopted; a possible tree‑permit processing fee was discussed but not decided. The meeting adjourned at 8:44 p.m. and the next meeting is scheduled for January 13, 2026.

• Approved minutes from Nov 10, 2025 meeting

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings to discuss several residential construction applications. The board is reviewing requests for building additions, driveway expansions, and fence changes that deviate from standard zoning requirements.

• Application for a new single family dwelling and 11-foot retaining walls/fence at 370 Upper Boulevard
• Application for a second-story addition and portico at 335 Marshall Street
• Application for one and two-story additions at 68 North Van Dien Avenue
• Amended application for a white vinyl fence at 914 Elaine Terrace
• Carried applications for 230 Fairfield Avenue and 257 Greenway Road to January 27, 2026

The Zoning Board approved the application for a second‑story addition at 335 Marshall Street, subject to NJDEP and Ordinance 3865 compliance and a deed restriction. Several other applications were carried over to future dates, and a fence amendment was also carried. One board member recused himself from the Kaplanis application.

• Approved second‑story addition at 335 Marshall St, conditional on NJDEP and Ordinance 3865 compliance (motion passed, seconded)
• Carried Muhammad Mahmoud application (230 Fairfield Ave) to Jan 27, 2026
• Carried Jisoo Suzy Yoon application (257 Greenway Rd) to Jan 27, 2026
• Carried Barbara & Larry Melton fence amendment (914 Elaine Terrace) to Feb 10, 2026
• Carried Pavan Rayabarapu & Rajani Nomula variance request (370 Upper Blvd) to Feb 10, 2026
• Carried Storms application (68 North Van Dien Ave) to Jan 27, 2026
• Recused Matthew Bandelt from Kaplanis application
• Carried Kaplanis application to Feb 10, 2026 (subsequently approved with conditions)

Ridgewood Arts Council

The council is coordinating upcoming art events and exhibits for the spring season. Members are discussing scheduling and promotional materials for several community programs.

• Older Americans Art Exhibit in the Library auditorium in May with a May 12th reception
• Children in the Arts planning for potentially March 15th at 2:00pm
• Artist talk with Tamara Freeman on March 26th at 7:00pm in the Art Studio
• Commitment of $100 to co-sponsor a Mallory Mortillaro lecture series with RPL

The Ridgewood Arts Council reviewed updates on the Ridgewood Living newsletter, potential jazz jam sessions, the Downtown for the Holidays contest, and upcoming exhibitions and talks. They noted scheduling needs for the Older Americans Art Exhibit, Children in the Arts program, and a spring lecture series, and announced future dates for a showcase and salon. No formal actions or votes were recorded.

Historic Preservation Commission

The Village of Ridgewood Historic Preservation Commission meeting scheduled for December 8, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. in the Caucus Room was canceled. The next regular meeting is set for January 12, 2026 at 7:30 p.m. in the same location. No agenda items were presented for the canceled meeting.

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission meeting scheduled for December 8, 2025, has been canceled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for January 12, 2026.

Green Ridgewood

The Ridgewood Village Council will review and discuss the town's 2025 expenses and the proposed 2026 budget. Several green‑focused committees will present updates, including a climate resilience grant application to Bergen County and the status of a Sustainable NJ certification. Additional reports cover energy audits, a communications tower proposal in Ramapo Reservation, and upcoming community events.

• Approve November 6 meeting minutes
• Climate Resilience Planning Grant Application – Bergen County
• Finance – 2025 expenses and discussion of 2026 budget
• Energy Audit and Sustainable NJ Grant status
• Communications Tower proposal in Ramapo Reservation

The Green Ridgewood advisory board approved the November 6 meeting minutes with a minor correction. They discussed several ongoing initiatives, including a draft memo on electric leaf blowers, a food scrap expansion, and a climate resilience grant. No formal votes were taken on substantive items; most actions were planning and discussion.

• Approved November 6 meeting minutes with minor correction
• Draft memo on electric leaf blowers to Village manager within 5 days (before Dec. 12 meeting)
• Recycling Dept. budget request for two additional food scrap locations at Habernickel Park and Stables ($3,300 each)
• Discussed draft resolution supporting Sen. Smith's leaf-blower bill
• Planning for 2026 Daffodil Festival/Earth Day Fair theme (sustainable landscaping suggested)
• Discussed potential artificial turf at Benjamin Franklin school field; Green Ridgewood to consider position
• Noted DEP hearing Dec. 15 on Green Acres property disposal proposal

Village Council Meeting

The council will approve a series of award contracts covering PFAS laboratory analysis, electric source servicing, landscaping, pipe and appurtenances, sodium hypochlorite delivery, water meters, asphalt repair, water service line replacements, tree maintenance, and other related services. It will also discuss a property easement for 535 East Ridgewood Avenue, a parking crosswalk amendment, emergency sewer repair funding, and the transfer of opioid abatement funds. The agenda includes public comments, manager and council reports, a presentation on the Schedler Property soil remediation plan, and a closed session for legal and personnel matters.

• Award Contract – PFAS Laboratory Analysis Services
• Property Easement Agreement – 535 East Ridgewood Avenue
• Amend Chapter 265 – Install Midblock Crosswalk East Ridgewood Ave and Cottage Place Lot
• Authorize Emergency Award of Contract – Repair of Sanitary Sewer Line – Corsa Terrace
• Transfer Portions of Opioid Abatement Funds Through a Memorandum of Agreement with NJ State and Bergen County

The Village Council met to receive a Matrix New World Engineering presentation on the approved NJDEP remediation work plan for the Schedler property. Council members asked questions about removal‑and‑disposal versus bioremediation, traffic, dust control and community impact. Residents voiced concerns and preferences, but no formal action, approval, denial, or vote was recorded.

Planning Board

The Ridgewood Planning Board announced that the public meeting and work session scheduled for Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. in the Village Hall Courtroom was canceled. The next regular meeting is set for December 16, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. in the same location.

Fields Committee

The Ridgewood Fields Working Group will discuss the upcoming 2026 spring sports schedule, review the Fields and Recreational Facility Policy update, and consider maintenance requests for field boxes, irrigation, portable restrooms, and light towers. The meeting also includes member reports, special needs program offerings, and a World Cup watch party proposal.

• Approval of minutes from October 7, 2025 (November 4 meeting canceled)
• Fields and Recreational Facility Policy/Update presented by K. Kazmark & M. Schwarz
• 2026 Spring Schedule for RHS varsity sports, youth sports, and special events
• Late Winter/Spring maintenance requests (field boxes, irrigation, portable restrooms, light towers)
• Special Needs Program Offerings

The Fields Working Group approved the October 7 2025 meeting minutes by unanimous vote. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously. No other motions were adopted; the group discussed upcoming field schedules, maintenance plans, and other updates without formal decisions.

• Approved October 7 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings to consider several applications for residential additions and structures. The board is deciding whether to grant variances for setbacks, building heights, and lot coverage limits.

• 3 Paul Court: Request to keep an existing tree house with a 3.87-foot side yard setback
• 697 Ellington Road: Request for second story and garage additions affecting front and rear setbacks
• 153 John Street: Request for a swimming pool, new garage, and patio/BBQ location
• 179 Lincoln Avenue: Request for second floor addition, porch, and garage exceeding height and coverage limits
• 122 Cottage Place: Request for a second story addition with a 12.8-foot side yard setback

The Zoning Board of Adjustment approved a tree‑house variance at 3 Paul Court with a condition to obtain a building permit and undergo inspections every three years. It also approved a second‑story and garage addition at 697 Ellington Road, requiring a reduced garage width and a hip roof. An application for a second‑floor addition, porch and detached garage at 179 Lincoln Avenue was approved pending revised drawings. Finally, a second‑story addition at 122 Cottage Place was approved.

• Approved tree‑house variance at 3 Paul Court, with permit and triennial inspection condition
• Approved second‑story and garage addition at 697 Ellington Road, with reduced garage width and hip roof condition
• Approved second‑floor addition, porch and detached garage at 179 Lincoln Avenue, pending revised drawings
• Approved second‑story addition at 122 Cottage Place

Ridgewood's Access Committee

The Access Committee will review reports from the President, Executive Board, Village Council, SEPAG, and Village Departments. It will discuss a proposed joint meeting for January, consider dates for Access Week 2026, and set goals for upcoming activities.

• Approval of meeting minutes
• President's debrief of Access Week
• Executive Board report on Sensory‑Friendly Dinners
• Proposed joint meeting for January
• Discussion of Access Week 2026 dates

The committee approved the meeting minutes. It decided to invite attendees to create non‑denominational holiday cards for the Cards of Joy campaign. The Stigma‑Free Committee will join the Access Committee's January meeting for collaboration, and the group agreed to share Zoom links only with people who request them via the email list. Deanna and Ashley were tasked with brainstorming Access Week 2026 dates, likely October 13‑17.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Decided to invite attendees to write holiday cards for Cards of Joy campaign
• Agreed Stigma‑Free Committee will join Access Committee's January meeting
• Agreed to share Zoom meeting links only with requestors via email distribution list
• Assigned Deanna and Ashley to brainstorm Access Week 2026 dates (possible Oct 13‑17)
• Scheduled next Access Committee meeting for Dec 19 2025 at 2:00 pm via Zoom

Citizens Safety Advisory Committee

The Ridgewood Citizens Safety Advisory Committee will meet on November 20, 2025 to discuss and receive updates on a range of public‑safety topics. Items include engineering updates on the No. Maple & Franklin intersection, sidewalk work on W. Glen Avenue, and the Linwood/Walnut intersection review. The committee will also consider the proposed e‑bike/bike ordinance for the central business district and a pedestrian‑safety campaign. Additional agenda points cover sight‑triangle obstructions, incident reporting, CBD advisory council updates, restriping at the recycling center, and website safety information.

• Intersection of No. Maple & Franklin – engineering improvements update
• Ebike/bike ordinance proposal for the central business district
• Sidewalks on W. Glen Avenue – engineering update
• Linwood/Walnut intersection – review by police and engineering
• Restriping at entrance to Recycling Center – presented by Sacks

The committee approved a purchase order for retaining‑wall material and confirmed the West Glen sidewalks project will not be cancelled, with more than $1 million already allocated. Crosswalk striping at the North Maple/Franklin Ave. intersection will be refreshed within a week and the road will be repaved in the spring with high‑visibility striping added afterward. A subcommittee was formed to develop a monthly pedestrian‑safety campaign, and engineering will investigate visibility of a blocked “No Left Turn” sign on West Ridgewood Ave. Repaving and restriping of the recycling center are planned for the 2026 capital budget.

• Approved purchase order for retaining‑wall material for West Glen sidewalks project
• Confirmed West Glen sidewalks project will not be cancelled, over $1 M allocated
• Crosswalk striping at North Maple/Franklin Ave. intersection to be refreshed within a week
• Road repaving scheduled for spring with high‑visibility thermoplastic striping to follow
• Formed subcommittee (Anastasia + volunteers) to develop monthly pedestrian‑safety campaign
• Engineering to investigate visibility concerns of blocked “No Left Turn” sign at 272 W. Ridgewood Ave.
• Repaving and restriping of recycling center planned under 2026 Capital Budget
• No additional engineering changes recommended for Linwood/Walnut intersection

Community Center Advisory Board

The Community Center Advisory Board will meet to review treasurer reports and provide updates on a proposal and contract for community center improvements. The board is also seeking a new treasurer.

• Updates on Community Center Improvement proposal and contract
• Treasurer reports for CCORF and Taub Foundation
• Search for a new Treasurer
• Planning for Fourth Luncheon Series and Holiday Bingo on December 16

The advisory board provided financial updates, noting the Foundation’s main account balance fell from $4,108 to $2,711 and the Taub account from $6,101.90 to $5,814.16. Members discussed upcoming community‑center revitalization, a potential $10,000 designer hire, and a contract with the Ridgecrest Foundation, but no approvals or votes were recorded. Plans for future Lunch and Learn events and a donor‑letter campaign were proposed, and age‑friendly transportation initiatives were reported, without formal decisions.

Planning Board

The Planning Board public meeting and work session scheduled for November 18, 2025, has been canceled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for December 2, 2025.

Stigma-Free Committee

The Stigma-Free Committee will review minutes, recap recent events, and discuss winter/spring outreach initiatives. It will also share news about upcoming health-related events such as a free Narcan training on Nov 17 and a senior health and wellness fair on Nov 19. The meeting will conclude with planning for future joint meetings and outreach strategies.

• Free Narcan Training at Village Hall, Senior Lounge, Nov 17, 6:30‑7:00 pm
• Ridgewood 2025 Senior Health and Wellness Fair at Village Hall, Nov 19, 9:15‑11:30 am
• Cards of Joy Campaign – Card Making Session at Village Hall, Dec 3, 3:15‑4:15 pm
• Joint meeting with Access Committee and Stigma-Free on Jan 16 2026 at 2:00 pm
• Brainstorm of outreach strategies for winter/spring (no specific date)

The committee members moved and seconded a motion to approve the meeting minutes. They scheduled a joint meeting with the Access Committee for January 16, 2026 at 2:00 pm. Cards of Joy collection boxes will be placed at Village Hall and the Ridgewood Public Library, with collections due Dec 11 and drop‑off on Dec 12. The group agreed to screen the film “The Upstanders” before “RACE to Be Human.”

• Motion to approve minutes was made by Karen Acker and seconded by Lynn Benson (no vote tally recorded)
• Joint meeting with Access Committee scheduled for Jan 16 2026 at 2:00 pm
• Cards of Joy collection boxes to be located at Village Hall and Ridgewood Public Library; collection deadline Dec 11, drop‑off Dec 12
• Consensus to screen The Upstanders film first

Central Business District Advisory Committee

The Central Business District Advisory Committee will review updates on pedestrian tunnels, public art, and parking. The body will discuss 2026 priorities including the Franklin Avenue corridor and the Warner Theater, as well as the Costco approval.

• 2026 priorities: SID launch, Franklin Avenue corridor, 'Collison Corner', and Warner Theater
• Review of CBDAC memo to Walker Associates regarding parking
• Discussion on Costco approval
• Updates on Pedestrian Tunnel and Public Art Initiatives
• Review of e-bike position letters

The Central Business District Advisory Committee approved the minutes from the October 16 joint Citizen Safety Advisory Committee‑CBDAC meeting. No other formal actions, approvals, denials, or tablings were recorded. The remainder of the meeting consisted of updates on the Ridgewood Business Alliance budget, downtown projects, chamber activities, and parking matters.

• Approved minutes from Oct. 16 joint CSAC‑CBDAC meeting

Open Space Committee

The Ridgewood Open Space Committee will consider the recent referendum ballot results and their impact on 2026 activities and the Open Space Trust Account expenses. The meeting includes updates on the Green Acres disposal project and the Schedler property, as well as a review of upcoming park stewardship events. Committee members will also handle December reappointments.

• Referendum ballot results – implications for 2026 activities and Open Space Trust Account expense
• Green Acres Disposal – 2025 progress/update
• Schedler Property – update
• Park stewardship events (rain gardens, NY/NJ Trail Conference, Grove Park and Kings Pond activities)
• December reappointments of committee members

The Open Space Committee approved the minutes from the October meeting. It noted the successful 56% vote for the Open Space Tax Referendum and discussed plans for 2026. The committee voted to cancel the December 11 Open Space meeting. Upcoming topics include staffing appointments, grant processes, and event participation for 2026.

• Approved October meeting notes
• Cancelled December 11 Open Space meeting

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will discuss three items. First, it will authorize an application for a grant from the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs to construct a PFAS treatment facility in Glen Rock. Second, it will consider awarding a professional services contract for geotechnical investigation, retaining wall design, and construction drawings. Third, it will consider awarding a Bergen County contract to restore the fire department ladder‑tower truck.

• Authorize grant application for PFAS treatment facility in Glen Rock
• Award professional services contract for geotechnical investigation and retaining‑wall design
• Award Bergen County contract for restoration of fire department ladder‑tower truck

Village Council Meeting

The council will hold a public hearing and adopt the Ridgewood Business Alliance budget. It will approve a consent agenda that includes multiple contracts, notably a $14,554,000 award to Pact Two, LLC for the Cedar Hill PFAS Treatment Facility. New ordinances on salaries, parking fees, and water services will be introduced and heard. Several shared‑services agreements with neighboring municipalities will also be authorized.

• Resolution 25-422: Public hearing and adoption of the Ridgewood Business Alliance budget
• Resolution 25-424: Award contract (NTE $14,554,000) to Pact Two, LLC for Cedar Hill PFAS Treatment Facility
• Resolution 25-423: Award contract (NTE $43,503) to Lightera, LLC for fiber cable for Wyckoff Buildout Project
• Resolution 25-436: Approve final payment of $174,220.34 to Matina & Son, Inc. for Eastside Water Main Replacement Project
• Ordinance 4068: Establish salaries for PBA and PBA Superiors employees for 2026‑2029

The Village Council voted to accept the Bills, Claims, Vouchers and Statement of Funds as of October 31, 2025. It also approved the minutes from the September 9, September 24, September 29 and October 8, 2025 meetings. The item on no‑parking on the bike lane on South Pleasant Avenue was removed from the agenda. A discussion was held about a small isolated wetland on the Zabriskie‑Schedler property, but no vote was taken.

• Accepted Bills, Claims, Vouchers and Statement of Funds (AYES: Mortimer, Perron, Weitz, Winograd; NAYS: none; Mayor absent)
• Approved September 9, September 24, September 29 and October 8, 2025 minutes (AYES: Mortimer, Perron, Weitz, Winograd; NAYS: none; Mayor absent)
• Removed no‑parking on bike lane on South Pleasant Avenue from agenda (no vote recorded)
• Discussed wetland finding on Zabriskie‑Schedler property; no decision made

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Ridgewood Zoning Board of Adjustment meeting that was to be held on Tuesday, November 11, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. in the Village Hall Courtroom was canceled. The next regularly scheduled meeting is set for Tuesday, November 25, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. in the same location. No other agenda items were listed.

• Nov 11, 2025 Zoning Board meeting canceled; next meeting set for Nov 25, 2025

Shade Tree Commission

The Shade Tree Commission will receive updates from co‑chairs, the council liaison, and community partners on various tree‑related projects. Topics include the Adopt‑a‑Sapling program for 2026 Ridge, Ivy climbing, Liberty Trees, strip plantings with AAS, the Daffodil Fest, and a virtual meeting option. The commission will also hear public comments limited to three minutes.

• Adopt‑a‑Sapling final details for 2026 Ridge
• Ivy climbing on trees
• Liberty Trees
• Strip plantings in conjunction with AAS
• Virtual option for STC meetings

The Shade Tree Commission approved the minutes from the October meeting. No other formal actions were taken; the commission discussed possible expansions of the Adopt a Sapling program, a strip‑planting pilot, and attending a PSEG event, but no decisions were recorded. The meeting adjourned at 8:50 pm.

• Approved October meeting minutes

Ridgewood Arts Council

The Ridgewood Arts Council will review updates and plan several community arts events. They will discuss the Jazz CoffeeHouse concert on November 20, the Downtown for the Holidays holiday window displays, and the Older Americans Art Exhibit slated for May. Additional items include a co‑sponsored spring lecture series with a $100 contribution and an artist talk with Tamara Freeman in December 2026.

• Jazz CoffeeHouse concert – November 20, 7:00 pm at Sugar and Spice, $150 cleaning fee
• Downtown for the Holidays – holiday window displays on Friday, November 28; judges on Nov 29‑30; final event Friday, December 5
• Older Americans Art Exhibit – May exhibition in the Library auditorium, reception on May 12
• RAC co‑sponsored spring lecture (Mallory Mortillaro) – RAC pledges $100 and promotion, target audience of 80
• Children in the Arts – artist talk with Tamara Freeman scheduled for December 8, 2026

The Ridgewood Arts Council reviewed plans for the Jazz CoffeeHouse on November 20, the Downtown for the Holidays window‑decorating contest in December, and an Older Americans art exhibit in May. They also updated the Ridgewood Living article, future children‑in‑the‑arts programming, and the Artober fundraiser. No votes, approvals, or formal resolutions were recorded in the minutes.

Historic Preservation Commission

The Ridgewood Historic Preservation Commission will consider applications for new signs, garage demolition and replacement, and façade alterations at several properties on East Ridgewood Avenue, Valley View Avenue, N. B road Street, and other locations. The commission will also discuss a mandatory training course for its members. No decisions are recorded in the agenda.

• Chorn Thong Thai, 2 East Ridgewood Avenue – proposed sign
• Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls, 111 East Ridgewood Avenue – proposed signs
• Zumbolo Residence, 55 Valley View Avenue – demolition of existing garage and construction of new garage
• Jha & Gogo i Residence, 849 East Ridgewood Avenue – demolition of existing garage and construction of new garage
• Warby Parker, 65 East Ridgewood A venue – paint façade, signs, awning fabric, lighting

The Historic Preservation Commission conditionally approved the Warby Parker storefront sign, requiring the lighting intensity to be reduced, and approved a sign at 65 E. Ridgewood Ave. with changes. It required additional information for the Mason's Famous Lobster Rolls and Chorn Thong signs, and did not approve the door addition for the On the Spot Home Improvement sign. Conditional approvals were also given for garage projects at the Jha & Gogoi and Zumbolo residences and at 55 Valley View Ave. The commission noted new state legislation that will require all HPC members to complete a five‑hour historic preservation training by mid‑2027.

• Mason's Famous Lobster Rolls sign – more information required; not approved
• Chorn Thong sign – more information required; not approved
• On the Spot Home Improvement sign – door addition not approved; changes requested
• Warby Parker sign – conditional approval, lighting intensity must be reduced
• 65 E. Ridgewood Ave. sign – approved with changes
• Jha & Gogoi Residence garage – conditional approval, pending door brochure and rendering
• Zumbolo Residence garage – conditional approval, pending revised location and rendering
• 55 Valley View Ave. – conditional approval

Green Ridgewood

The committee will review updates on water conservation, food scrap programs, and the Sustainable NJ certification process. Members will discuss a grant application for climate resilience and the 2026 budget.

• Leaf blower strategy and Maplewood meeting review
• Columbia/Climate Resilience Grant application process
• Project 1,000 acres lawn care
• Sustainable NJ Certification Process status
• Discussion of 2026 budget and 2025 expenses

The open space referendum was approved by voters with 56% support. The council formally approved the minutes from the October 9 meeting. No other motions were adopted at this session.

• Open space referendum passed (56% vote)
• Approved October 9 meeting minutes

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will hold a public workshop to discuss multiple contract awards for Ridgewood Water and budget items. The meeting includes a review of the Human Resources Manual and various infrastructure projects. A special public meeting is also scheduled to convene during the session.

• Award contract for construction of Cedar Hill PFAS Treatment Facility
• Award professional services contract for development of Schedler Park Property
• CDBG agreement for Carlisle Terrace sewage pipe road improvements
• Adoption of Revised Human Resources Manual
• Award contract for 2026 Ford F-350 Super Cab

During the November 5, 2025 regular public work session, the Village Council presented a proclamation and the Key to the Village to Tony Damiano in recognition of his service to Ridgewood. Councilmembers shared personal remarks about Mr. Damiano’s contributions to local events and businesses. No vote tally was recorded for the proclamation.

• Presented proclamation and Key to the Village honoring Tony Damiano (no vote recorded)

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will hold public hearings on two ordinances regarding road and park changes. The body will also consider adopting a revised Human Resources Manual.

• Public hearing on Ordinance #4061 to vacate a portion of Marlborough Road
• Public hearing on Bond Ordinance #4062 for Kings Pond Park and Playground improvements (NTE $618,000)
• Resolution 25-420 to adopt a revised Human Resources Manual

The council adopted Ordinance #4061 to vacate a portion of Marlborough Road and Ordinance #4062, a bond ordinance allocating $618,000 for improvements to Kings Pond Park and Playground. Both ordinances were approved on second reading and final publication with a unanimous 5‑0 vote. Resolution 25‑420 was also adopted by the consent agenda.

• Ordinance #4061 (vacate portion of Marlborough Road) adopted – vote 5-0
• Ordinance #4062 (Kings Pond Park bond for $618,000) adopted – vote 5-0
• Resolution 25-420 adopted by consent agenda

Planning Board

The Planning Board announced that the public meeting and work session set for November 4, 2025 at the Village Hall Courtroom was canceled. The next regular meeting will be held on November 18, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. in the same location. No agenda items were considered at the canceled meeting.

• Nov 4, 2025 Planning Board meeting canceled; next meeting set for Nov 18, 2025 at 7:30 p.m.

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings for residential applications regarding building setbacks and lot coverage. The board will also memorialize resolutions for three properties.

• Application for a tree house setback of 3.87 feet at 3 Paul Court
• Application for attic addition and building area increases at 230 Fairfield Avenue
• Application for a swimming pool, new garage, and patio at 153 John Street
• Application for a circular driveway and paved area at 257 Greenway Road
• Resolution memorialization for 325 Crest Road, 815 Hillcrest Road, and 288 Woodside Avenue

The Zoning Board of Adjustment adopted the October 14 minutes. It carried the Mahmoud attic‑addition and Yoon circular‑driveway applications to a hearing on December 9, 2025. It also carried the Licare and Basov/Kalinina applications to a hearing on November 25, 2025. Three resolutions for Fox, Manuel & Zymaris, and Leahy were memorialized.

• Adopted minutes from October 14, 2025
• Carried Licare, 153 John Street application to November 25, 2025 (no further notice)
• Carried Basov and Kalinina, 3 Paul Court application to November 25, 2025 (no further notice)
• Carried Muhammad Mahmoud attic‑addition application to December 9, 2025 (no further notice)
• Carried Jisoo Suzy Yoon circular driveway application to December 9, 2025 (no further notice)
• Memorialized resolution for Fox, 325 Crest Road, Block 1909, Lot 24
• Memorialized resolution for Manuel & Zymaris, 815 Hillcrest Road, Block 1202, Lot 31
• Memorialized resolution for Leahy, 288 Woodside Avenue, Block 3914, Lot 2

Community Center Advisory Board

The Community Center Advisory Board will review a charitable foundation approval for $120-150K. The board will also hear from the Open Space Committee Chair regarding a November 2025 ballot initiative.

• Charitable foundation approval for $120-150K pending precise request
• Open Space Tax referendum initiative for November 2025 ballot
• Search for a new Treasurer
• Age-Friendly Report by Beth Abbott and Sheila Brogan
• Intergenerational Activities Report by Civic Youth Corps Members

The board approved the June minutes and the Treasurer's Report unanimously. It accepted an $80,000 donation from the Ridgecrest Foundation, contingent on the village contributing $70,000 for staffing, and noted the foundation's pledge of up to $150,000 if project costs increase. The board also recognized the need to fill the treasurer vacancy and scheduled the next meeting for November 20 at 5 p.m.

• Approved June minutes (all in favor)
• Approved Treasurer's Report (all in favor)
• Accepted $80,000 donation from Ridgecrest Foundation contingent on $70,000 village investment
• Noted Ridgecrest Foundation pledge of up to $150,000 if costs rise
• Identified need for a new treasurer (no vote recorded)
• Scheduled next meeting for November 20 at 5 p.m.

Village Council Meeting

The council will consider three resolutions on a consent agenda. Resolution 25‑417 would award a contract up to $14,068,570 to ConQuest Construction for building a Cedar Hill PFAS treatment facility. Resolution 25‑418 would award a $132,000 professional‑services contract to Walker Parking Consultants for parking planning and operations. Resolution 25‑419 would authorize use of The Difference Card for health benefits.

• Award contract (NTE $14,068,570) to ConQuest Construction for Cedar Hill PFAS Treatment Facility
• Award $132,000 professional services contract to Walker Parking Consultants for parking planning and operations
• Authorize use of The Difference Card for health benefits

The council approved resolutions numbered 25‑417 and 25‑418 through a consent agenda, with a single vote by the Village Council. The resolutions were read by title only. The meeting was then adjourned after a motion by Councilmember Winograd, seconded by Councilmember Mortimer, which passed unanimously by voice vote.

• Adopted resolutions 25‑417 and 25‑418 (consent agenda)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Village Council Meeting

The Ridgewood Village Council will discuss and vote on several items, including a contract to provide laboratory analysis services for the Water Pollution Control Facility, Lakeview Compost Facility, and Graydon Pool Facility. Other agenda items cover traffic and parking changes at Oak Street, Glen Avenue, Bryden Place, and South Pleasant Avenue, as well as a minor encroachment agreement for 914 Elaine Terrace and the establishment of 2026 dates and fees for dining corrals.

• Award contract for laboratory analysis services for Water Pollution Control Facility, Lakeview Compost Facility, and Graydon Pool Facility
• Oak Street and Glen Avenue Intersection and Bryden Place one‑way traffic proposal
• Amend Chapter 265 to prohibit parking on the bike lane on South Pleasant Avenue
• Authorize minor encroachment agreement for 914 Elaine Terrace
• Establish 2026 dates and fees for dining corrals

The October 22 regular public‑works session included public comments on a proposed bike lane on South Pleasant Avenue, tree‑replacement procedures, the Open Space Tax increase, and ongoing lawsuits over the Schedler property. Mayor Vagianos noted police attendance for the bike‑lane discussion and said he would recommend adopting a tree‑replacement list. No votes, approvals, or other formal actions were recorded in the minutes.

Planning Board

The Ridgewood Planning Board will meet to adopt minutes from August 2025 and review an application for a minor subdivision at 471 East Saddle River Road. The board will also discuss an ordinance to vacate portions of Marlborough Road.

• Adoption of August 5, 2025 minutes
• Minor subdivision application at 471 East Saddle River Road
• Review of Ordinance #4061 to vacate portions of Marlborough Road

The Board adopted the minutes from the August 5, 2025 meeting. The minor subdivision application for 471 East Saddle River Road was carried over to a future date with a new notice, pending county road‑widening easement review. No vote tallies were recorded for either action.

• Adopted minutes from August 5, 2025 (adopted)
• Carried minor subdivision application to future date with new notice (deferred)

Stigma-Free Committee

The committee is reviewing past community events and discussing upcoming initiatives for the winter and spring. Members are coordinating collaborations with the Ridgewood Public Library and the Access Committee.

• Discussion of 'Cards of Joy' beginning in November
• Proposed viewing of 'The Upstanders' and/or 'RACE to Be Human' with Ridgewood Public Library
• Proposed collaboration with Baker Street Psychology/Cape Center
• October 28 Narcan Training at Village Hall
• October 30 'Your Identity Matters' event at Village Hall

The committee approved the minutes from the previous meeting after a motion by Councilwoman Siobhan Winograd and a second by Lynn Benson. No vote tally was recorded. The remainder of the meeting consisted of event recaps, discussion of outreach ideas, and planning for upcoming activities, but no additional formal decisions were made.

• Approved meeting minutes (motion by Councilwoman Siobhan Winograd, seconded by Lynn Benson; no vote tally recorded)

Parks, Recreation & Conservation Board

The Parks, Recreation & Conservation Board will consider the 2026 operating and capital budget for the Department of Parks and Recreation. It will receive updates on the Premier Community Center proposal and several project updates, including a new playground at Habernickel Park and lighting at Veterans Memorial Park. The board will also discuss upcoming fall special events such as the NYBG Van Gogh’s Flowers exhibition and the NYNJ Trail Workshop.

• 2026 Departmental Operating/Capital Budget Review
• New Playground Installation – Habernickel Park
• Veterans Memorial Park – Musco lighting complete
• Premier Community Center Proposal – update
• Fall Special Events – NYBG Van Gogh’s Flowers (11/22) and NYNJ Trail Workshop (10/25)

The Parks, Recreation & Conservation Board approved the September 2025 minutes with motions by J. Buckley and L. Kloak; all members voted in favor. No other decisions, approvals, or denials were recorded during the meeting.

• Approved September 2025 minutes (all in favor)

Citizens Safety Advisory Committee

The Citizens Safety Advisory Committee and the Central Business District Advisory Committee will review their focus areas, including site triangle obstructions, crosswalks, e‑bikes, and CBD intersections. They will discuss overlapping safety issues, new approaches, lighting, and subcommittee options. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Site triangle obstructions
• Crosswalk improvements
• E‑bike safety concerns
• CBD intersection safety
• Lighting improvements

The Citizens Safety Advisory Committee and the CBD Advisory Committee reviewed traffic‑signal ownership, pedestrian‑crossing concerns, sight‑triangle compliance, and e‑bike safety. They noted completed street‑light repairs, scheduled a Village Engineer presentation on traffic‑calming plans for Oct 22, and arranged an ad‑hoc parking subcommittee meeting for Oct 23 (remote). Plans were mentioned for a letter campaign to state officials about e‑bike regulations and for a Special Improvement District with an estimated $700,000 budget, but no formal approvals or votes were recorded.

Shade Tree Commission

The Shade Tree Commission will receive updates from its co‑chairs and the village council liaison. The meeting will cover final details of the Adopt‑a‑Sapling program, as well as reports on ivy climbing, Liberty Trees, strip plantings, and a possible virtual meeting option. No formal actions are listed on the agenda.

• Adopt‑a‑Sapling final details
• Ivy climbing on trees
• Liberty Trees
• Strip Plantings
• Virtual option for STC meetings

The Shade Tree Commission approved the minutes from the September 2025 meeting. No other actions, approvals, or denials were recorded during the October 14, 2025 session.

• Approved September 2025 meeting minutes

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Ridgewood Zoning Board will consider several pending variance and permit applications, including the LES DANN, LLC request to consolidate three lots for an autobody shop on South Broad Street. It will also review applications for second‑floor and one‑story additions at 325 Crest Road, 815 Hillcrest Road, 697 Ellington Road, and 288 Woodside Avenue. The meeting includes routine items such as minutes from September 23, 2025, public comments, and non‑agenda business.

• LES DANN, LLC – variance to combine Lots 12‑14 (246‑264 South Broad St.) for an autobody shop, R‑3 Zone
• Justin & Gassia Fox – second‑floor addition at 325 Crest Rd., side yard setback 20.5 ft (required 26 ft), R‑110 Zone
• Eugenia Manuel & Jon Zymaris – one‑story additions, deck and stairs at 815 Hillcrest Rd., side yard setbacks 8.8‑14.2 ft (required 20.9 ft), R‑1 Zone
• Claudia Sanchez – second‑story and garage addition at 697 Ellington Rd., multiple yard setbacks and coverage exceeding limits, R‑2 Zone
• Brian & Kate Leahy – one‑story addition and porch at 288 Woodside Ave., front, side, rear yard setbacks and structure spacing below code, R‑1 Zone

The Zoning Board of Adjustment approved three residential variance applications with conditions and approved one without conditions. Two other applications were postponed to future dates. Several prior resolutions were also memorialized.

• Approved Justin & Gassia Fox second‑floor addition with conditions (325 Crest Road)
• Approved Eugenia Manuel & Jon Zymaris one‑story addition, deck and stairs (815 Hillcrest Road)
• Approved Brian & Kate Leahy one‑story addition and porch with conditions (288 Woodside Avenue)
• Carried Les Dann, LLC application to Jan 13 2026 without further notice (246–264 South Broad Street)
• Carried Claudia Sanchez application to Nov 25 2025 without further notice (697 Ellington Road)
• Memorialized resolution for Melton, 914 Elaine Terrace
• Memorialized resolution for Rosen, 96 Avondale Road
• Memorialized resolution for DeNicholas & Tavani, 136 John Street

Historic Preservation Commission

The Ridgewood Historic Preservation Commission will hold a public meeting on October 14, 2025. The body will review several applications for signage, lighting, and a residential addition. A presentation on the Open Space Tax Referendum will also be given. The meeting will conclude with adjournment.

• TAVA – 1 East Ridgewood Avenue – proposed sign
• Chorn Thong Thai – 2 East Ridgewood Avenue – proposed sign
• Phillips Residence – 122 Cottage Place – proposed addition
• Sunroom Plants – 59 East Ridgewood Avenue – proposed sign and lighting
• Steel Wheel – 51 North B Road Street – proposed signage, window change, lighting

The commission approved the Tava Sign application with conditions, approved the Phillips Residence addition as submitted, and approved the Sunroom Plants signage and lighting as submitted. No vote tallies were recorded. Other items were discussed but not decided.

• Approved Tava Sign (subject to removal of decals and signage restrictions)
• Approved Phillips Residence addition as submitted
• Approved Sunroom Plants signage and lighting as submitted

Green Ridgewood

The Green Ridgewood group will receive a series of reports on water conservation, climate‑resilience grant applications, and local environmental projects. Members will hear a presentation on wildflower meadows and rain gardens and updates from several subcommittees on resource management and stormwater. The meeting will also include a review of 2025 expenses and a discussion of the 2026 budget. New business and future meeting dates will be set at the end of the session.

• Finance – 2025 Expenses, Discussion of 2026 budget
• Columbia University Report and Climate Resilience Grant Application
• Ridgewood Water Update & Conservation Plan
• Wildflower Meadows and Rain Gardens presentation
• Resource Management & Conservation Subcommittee – leaf blower discussion

The council approved $5.5 million in bonds to fund PFAS treatment at the main facility, which will open on Oct. 16 and received a $1 million state grant. The council also passed Resolution 215382 to develop a turf field at Schedler Park and awarded Downs Tree Service a $60,000 contract to plant trees. An open‑space referendum will appear on the ballot, proposing a tax increase from 0.5 to 1 cent per $1,000 of assessed value.

• Approved $5.5 million bonds for PFAS treatment (no vote tally recorded)
• Received $1 million state grant for PFAS facility (no vote tally recorded)
• Passed Resolution 215382 to develop a turf field at Schedler Park (no vote tally recorded)
• Awarded $60,000 contract to Downs Tree Service for tree planting (no vote tally recorded)
• Open‑space referendum placed on ballot (tax increase proposal) – not a council vote

Open Space Committee

The committee is meeting to coordinate public awareness and PR campaigns for an Open Space Tax Referendum. Members will also review progress on Green Acres Diversion and the Schedler Park property.

• Open Space Tax Referendum public awareness and PR campaign
• Green Acres Diversion 2025 progress update
• Schedler Park property update
• Park stewardship programs including rain gardens and trail maintenance
• Review of September meeting notes

The committee approved the September meeting notes. It reported that Ridgewood has accepted the Green Acres diversion settlement and is finalizing details. Updates were given on public outreach for the Open Space Tax referendum and several park events. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved September meeting notes (unanimous)
• Accepted Green Acres diversion settlement (implementation pending)

Village Council Meeting

The Ridgewood Village Council meeting on Oct. 8, 2025 will consider several agenda items. Council members will vote on a budget allocation for the Ridgewood Business Alliance. They will also consider a change order for structural repairs to the Kingsbridge Lane pedestrian bridge. Additional items include supporting a Bergen County grant for resilience work at Saddle River County Park and awarding a contract for West Glen Avenue sidewalk and retaining wall work.

• Authorize change order for Kingsbridge Lane pedestrian bridge structural repair
• Support Bergen County grant application for resilience improvements to Saddle River County Park
• Approve budget for Ridgewood Business Alliance
• Award contract for West Glen Avenue sidewalks and retaining walls on private properties

Village Council Meeting

The Ridgewood Village Council is holding a regular public meeting with public hearings on three bond ordinances totaling up to $5.5 million for PFAS treatment facilities, plus a hearing on a $2.6 million bond to acquire the Warner Theater property. The council will also introduce several ordinances, including one to vacate part of Marlborough Road and one to fund playground improvements at Kings Pond Park, and vote on a consent agenda of resolutions covering contracts, grants, and shared services.

• Public hearing on bond ordinance 4057: $1.5M for Main PFAS Treatment Facility
• Public hearing on bond ordinance 4058: $2M for Eastside PFAS Treatment Facility
• Public hearing on bond ordinance 4059: $2M for Mountain PFAS Treatment Facility
• Public hearing on bond ordinance 4060: $2.6M to acquire Warner Theater property at 190 East Ridgewood Avenue
• Introduction of ordinance 4062: $618,000 bond for Kings Pond Park playground and shelter

The Village Council voted to accept the Bills, Claims, Vouchers and Statement of Funds on Hand as of September 30, 2025. The motion passed with all five councilmembers voting aye. The council also approved the minutes from the September 3 and September 10, 2025 meetings, again unanimously.

• Accepted Bills, Claims, Vouchers and Statement of Funds on Hand as of Sept 30, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved September 3 and September 10, 2025 council minutes (5-0)

Planning Board

The Ridgewood Planning Board announced that the public meeting and work session scheduled for Tuesday, October 7, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. in the Village Hall Courtroom was canceled. The Zia Akbari minor subdivision application will be heard on October 21, 2025 with a new notice. The next regular Planning Board meeting is set for October 21, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. in the same location.

• Oct 7, 2025 Planning Board meeting canceled
• Zia Akbari minor subdivision application rescheduled to Oct 21, 2025

Fields Committee

The Ridgewood Fields Working Group will discuss updates to its recreational facility policy, present the Perry Weather Platform, and review the 2025 winter sports schedule. Members will report on field renovations, maintenance needs, and upcoming closures. The meeting also includes a public comment period limited to three minutes per speaker.

• Presentation – Open Space Public Question (J. Bostler)
• Fields and Recreational Facility Policy/Revision update (K. Kazmark & M. Schwarz)
• Perry Weather Platform discussion (K. Cook)
• Field Closure Notification (K. Cook/D. Wilde)
• 2025 Winter Schedule for RHS varsity sports and youth organizations

The Fields Working Group approved the September 9, 2025 minutes with all members in agreement. The meeting was then adjourned at 9:09 am by unanimous consent. No other formal actions or votes were recorded during this session.

• Approved September 9, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:09 am (unanimous)

Parks, Recreation & Conservation Board

The Parks, Recreation, and Conservation Board will review a proposed fee structure and 2026 departmental operating and capital budget requests. The meeting includes presentations on an Open Space Referendum and the Hawes Field Renovation.

• Discussion on proposed fee structure
• 2026 Departmental Operating/Capital Budget Requests
• Presentation on Hawes Field Renovation
• Presentation on Open Space Referendum
• Premier Community Center Proposal

The Parks, Recreation & Conservation Board adopted the June 2025 meeting minutes. It approved a $56,300 gift to the Village of Ridgewood for Upper Hawes remediation. The board recommended the 2026 fee structure with no price increase and tabled the sports‑field fee structure.

• Adopted June 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Approved $56,300 donation to VOR for Upper Hawes remediation (all in favor)
• Recommended 2026 fee structure with no price increase (all in favor)
• Tabled fee structure for sports fields (no vote recorded)

Shade Tree Commission

The Shade Tree Commission will receive updates from co‑chairs and the council liaison, recap Mulch Monday, discuss Adopt‑a‑Sapling preparations, and consider the 1000 Tree initiative. The meeting includes brief public comments and plans for a virtual meeting option.

• Mulch Monday recap and takeaways for next year
• Adopt‑a‑Sapling preparations (Nancy B‑H)
• Ivy climbing on trees (Deb)
• Liberty Trees (Deb)
• 1000 Tree initiative (Tim H)

The commission approved the minutes from the June meeting. No other formal actions were taken; the discussion covered tree‑related budgeting, the 1,000‑tree initiative, and volunteer reminders. The next meeting is set for October 14 at 7:30 pm in the Garden Room.

• Approved June meeting minutes

Village Council Meeting

The Ridgewood Village Council meeting on September 29, 2025 includes a public comment period limited to three minutes per speaker. After public comments, the council will adopt a resolution to enter a closed session. In the closed session, the council will consider legal matters concerning housing tax appeals related to Valley Hospital and personnel matters involving non‑union and management salary ordinances. The meeting will conclude with adjournment.

• Resolution to go into closed session
• Public comment period (max 3 minutes per person)
• Legal discussion of housing tax appeals and Valley Hospital tax appeals (closed session)
• Personnel discussion of non‑union and management salary ordinances (closed session)
• Statement of compliance with the Open Public Meeting Act

Village Council Meeting

The Ridgewood Village Council will hold a public workshop to discuss water infrastructure projects, including PFAS treatment facilities and a West Glen Avenue booster station. The meeting also includes discussions on parking permit fees, a fire zone extension on Beverly Road, and the adoption of revised bidding thresholds.

• Award contract for Ford Maverick Hybrid pickup truck and Ford Escape SUV
• Authorize change order for PFAS treatment facilities
• Amend Chapter 145 to change parking permit fees
• Amend Chapter 265 to extend fire zone on Beverly Road
• Adopt revised bidding and quotation thresholds

The September 29, 2025 work session included public comments, a Village Manager's report on leaf collection, road projects, upcoming events, and a presentation of the Ridgewood Business Alliance 2026 budget. No votes or approvals were recorded during this meeting.

Ridgewood Arts Council

The Ridgewood Arts Council will review the Open Space Tax Referendum and debrief the Chalk‑A‑Lot festival. It will plan several upcoming events, including the Jazz CoffeeHouse on November 20 with a $150 cleaning fee, the Downtown Holiday Windows displays in December, and the Older Americans Art Exhibit in May. The council will also provide updates on the Ridgewood Arts Foundation, Artober, and future meeting dates.

• Open Space Tax Referendum discussion
• Jazz CoffeeHouse planning for Nov 20, 7:00 pm at Sugar and Spice ($150 cleaning fee)
• Downtown Holiday Windows Displays planning for Dec 5 with prizes and business sign‑up
• Older Americans Art Exhibit in May at the Library auditorium, reception May 12
• Artober event on Oct 10, 6:00‑8:00 pm at the Stable

Residential Flood Advisory Committee

The committee will discuss tours of flood-prone areas including the Saddle River and Ho-Ho-Kus Brook. Members will also review updates on flood mitigation efforts from the Village and the US Army Corps of Engineers.

• Discussion of committee tour of Saddle River, Ho-Ho-Kus Brook, and stormwater drainage issues
• Discussion of Board of Education flood mitigation meeting
• Update on US Army Corps of Engineers
• Update on Village flood mitigation efforts
• Approval of March 26, 2025 meeting minutes

The Residential Flood Advisory Committee set the date for a site‑tour of flood‑prone areas. The tour will take place on October 15, 2025 at 9:00 am, beginning at Village Hall. No other formal actions were approved, denied, or tabled during the meeting. The meeting also included updates on flood‑mitigation funding and public comments.

• Scheduled flood‑prone area tour for Oct 15 2025 at 9:00 am

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will consider a resolution and bond ordinance to acquire the Warner Theater property. The meeting also includes budget actions such as cancelling capital balances, cancelling property taxes, authorizing refunds, and awarding a fire department contract for a Chevrolet Tahoe. Additional items are an amendment to fire watch fees and execution of two public‑health memoranda of understanding.

• Resolution and Bond Ordinance for acquisition of Warner Theater property
• Cancellation of capital balances
• Cancellation of property taxes and authorization of property tax refund
• Award contract under Bergen County contract – Chevrolet Tahoe – Fire Department
• Amend Chapter 145 – Fees – Fire Watch Fees – Fire Department

The Village Council heard detailed explanations about a proposed purchase option and bond ordinance for the former Warner Theater. No vote or formal approval was recorded. The meeting consisted of discussion and public comments without a decision.

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council is meeting to introduce a bond ordinance for the acquisition of the Warner Theater property. The body will also consider resolutions regarding park land disposal and grant applications for a performing arts center.

• Bond Ordinance 4060: Acquisition of Warner Theater property at 190 East Ridgewood Avenue (NTE $2,600,000)
• Resolution 25-388: Emergency appropriation for a down payment on the Warner Theater property (NTE $125,000)
• Resolution 25-387: Application to NJ Economic Development Authority CAFÉ Grant Program for Warner Theater renovation into a Performing Arts Center
• Resolution 25-386: Final Application to NJ DEP and State House Commission for after the fact disposal of park land at 308-316 South Broad Street

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board will review several applications, including a request to extend a variance for 976 Andover Terrace, a tree‑house variance continuation at 3 Paul Court, a fence replacement at 914 Elaine Terrace, a residential addition at 96 Avondale Road, and a new inground swimming pool at 136 John Street that seeks multiple setback and coverage variances. Decisions will be made on whether to grant the requested variances under the applicable zoning districts.

• Extension of variance approval for one year for Reynoso, 976 Andover Terrace, Block 1101, Lot 2
• Tree‑house variance at 3 Paul Court, Block 2505, Lot 2.04 (135 SF total, 64 SF permitted; side yard setback 3.87 ft vs 5 ft required; height 10.15 ft vs 10 ft permitted)
• Fence replacement application for Barbara and Larry Melton at 914 Elaine Terrace, Block 5001, Lot 19 (replace 6‑ft fence with solid 6‑ft fence not permitted in R‑1 zone)
• Residential addition and garage modification at 96 Avondale Road, Block 1403, Lot 1 (setbacks and coverage percentages exceed R‑1 zone requirements)
• Inground swimming pool with patio and outdoor kitchen at 136 John Street, Block 3406, Lot 11 (side yard setback 11.2 ft vs 20 ft required; combined side yard 31 ft vs 40 ft; coverage 21.36 % vs 20 % permitted; improvements coverage 50.96 % vs 45 % permitted)

The board approved a one‑year extension of a variance for 976 Andover Terrace. It approved three permit applications: a solid‑vinyl fence replacement at 914 Elaine Terrace with a shrub‑planting condition; an addition and garage modification at 96 Avondale Road with landscaping conditions; and a new inground pool at 136 John Street with patio‑setback and porch conditions. The Basov and Kalinina application was carried over to the next meeting, and several resolutions were memorialized.

• Approved one‑year extension of variance for Reynoso, 976 Andover Terrace
• Approved fence replacement at 914 Elaine Terrace, conditioned on planting shrubs along Van Emburgh Avenue side
• Approved addition and garage modification at 96 Avondale Road, conditioned on maintaining evergreens and planting hedges to screen equipment
• Approved new inground pool at 136 John Street, conditioned on pulling patio back two feet and keeping porch open
• Carried over Basov and Kalinina application at 3 Paul Court to October 28, 2025

Ridgewood's Access Committee

The Access Committee will approve the previous meeting minutes and hear reports from the president, executive board, village council liaison, and village departments. It will provide updates on Access Week events planned for October 14‑19. The committee will also address old business and discuss setting the date for the October 17, 2025 meeting.

• Approval of meeting minutes
• Access Week event schedule for October 14‑19
• Discussion of October meeting date

The Access Committee approved the minutes from the previous meeting. The committee voted to suspend the scheduled October 17, 2025 meeting because of Access Week and set the next meeting for November 21, 2025 via Zoom. Both motions were adopted.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Suspended October 17, 2025 meeting and set November 21, 2025 Zoom meeting (motion approved)

Citizens Safety Advisory Committee

The Citizens Safety Advisory Committee will review updates on several safety‑related topics, including sight‑triangle obstructions, Oak/Glen/Maple area concerns, and incident reporting. The committee will also discuss new business items such as traffic issues near Orchard School and potential improvements at the Maple and Franklin intersection. The meeting will conclude with an announcement of the next joint CSAC‑CBDAC meeting scheduled for October 16, 2025.

• Sight triangle obstruction locations – engineering updates
• Oak/Glen/Maple area updates – engineering and RPD
• Incident/accident reporting updates – RPD
• Orchard School traffic issues
• Intersection of No. Maple & Franklin improvements

The committee approved striping a new crosswalk at North Pleasant Avenue and Fairway Road. Glen Rock indicated it will not connect the two Demarest segments to ease Orchard School traffic. Schools announced plans for an e‑bike safety training course.

• Crosswalk striping at North Pleasant Ave and Fairway Rd approved
• Glen Rock declined to connect Demarest segments for Orchard School traffic relief
• E‑bike safety training course planned for schools

Stigma-Free Committee

The Stigma‑Free Committee will discuss the Sing! for Mental Health project and share updates on recent and upcoming community health events. Items include a recap of International Overdose Awareness Day, Youth Mental Health First Aid training, and the Mayors Wellness Campaign. The agenda also lists upcoming events such as Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day, a flu clinic, and Narcan training at Village Hall.

• Sing! for Mental Health Project – committee discussion
• Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day – October 6, 2025
• Flu Clinic – October 7, 2025
• Narcan Training – October 28, 2025, 6:30‑7 pm at Village Hall
• 1 Million Minutes of Wellness campaign – Sep 13 2025 through Dec 5 2025

The Stigma-Free Committee approved the August meeting minutes with all members in favor. The minutes note that the Village Council defeated the Kensington assisted‑living proposal that included 12 affordable beds. The Council also issued a suicide‑prevention proclamation and plans to issue a Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day proclamation on Oct. 8. No other formal actions were decided at this meeting.

• Approved August minutes (unanimous)
• Village Council defeated Kensington assisted‑living proposal (12 affordable beds)
• Village Council issued suicide‑prevention proclamation
• Village Council will issue Knock Out Opioid Abuse Day proclamation on Oct 8

Planning Board

The Ridgewood Planning Board announced that the public meeting and work session set for Tuesday, September 16, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. in the Village Hall Courtroom was canceled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for October 7, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. in the same location. All meetings remain open to the public as required by the Open Public Meetings Act.

Central Business District Advisory Committee

The Central Business District Advisory Committee will first approve the June meeting minutes. It will receive updates from the Village Council, Chamber of Commerce, Ridgewood Guild, CSAC, and pedestrian tunnel and public art initiatives, then discuss how to support the Ridgewood Business Alliance. The committee will review the Parking Subcommittee’s recommendations for the Village Council, plan a combined October meeting with CSAC, and consider the status and next steps for the Transit Village. Miscellaneous items include Costco and new businesses in the CBD, followed by public comment.

• Approve June meeting minutes
• Parking Subcommittee update: next steps for recommendations to Village Council
• Combined October meeting with CSAC: reminders and topics
• Transit Village status: next steps
• Miscellaneous items: Costco and new businesses in the CBD

The Council passed an ordinance establishing a special improvement district and named the Ridgewood Business Alliance as its management corporation. The Council appointed Gary di Chiara to fill Steve Aspera’s unexpired term and awarded a contract to a historic architect for repairs to the designated pedestrian tunnel. The Council also defeated a proposed overlay zone for the Kensington assisted‑living development.

• Approved ordinance creating a special improvement district (Ridgewood Business Alliance named as manager)
• Appointed Gary di Chiara to fill Steve Aspera’s unexpired term on the Chamber liaison board
• Awarded contract to a historic architect for repairs to the historic pedestrian tunnel
• Defeated the proposed overlay zone for the Kensington assisted‑living development

Open Space Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss the wording and public awareness campaign for an Open Space Tax Referendum. The agenda also includes an update on a NJ Green Acres Diversion public hearing and the Schedler Property.

• Open Space Tax Referendum wording and PR campaign
• NJ Green Acres Diversion public hearing (Sept. 9)
• Schedler Property update
• Habernickel Park pavilion dedication (Sept. 13)
• NY/NJ Trail Conference workshops at Habernickel, Grove, and Kings Pond/Gypsy Pond Parks

The Open Space Committee approved the July meeting minutes after correcting misspelled names. The committee also gave updates on the tax‑referendum brochure, the Green Acres diversion settlement, and upcoming park events, but no further actions were taken.

• Approved July meeting notes (with name corrections)

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will discuss several bond ordinances for water infrastructure and property acquisition. The meeting includes the introduction of funding for PFAS treatment facilities and a public hearing on the Warner Theater purchase option.

• Bond ordinances for PFAS treatment facilities at Main (NTE $1.5M), East side ($2M), and Mountain (NTE $2M) locations
• Bond ordinance for Warner Theater purchase option down payment (NTE $250,000)
• Bond ordinance for kiosks and professional parking consultant (NTE $1,372,000)
• Ten-year bulk water purchase agreement with the Borough of Hawthorne
• Contract for computer equipment with SHI International Corporation (NTE $451,126.47)

The Village Council accepted the Bills, Claims, Vouchers and Statement of Funds as of August 31, 2025. The Council also approved the minutes from the August 6 and August 13, 2025 meetings. Both actions were recorded with vote tallies. No other substantive actions were decided.

• Accepted Bills, Claims, Vouchers and Statement of Funds as of Aug 31, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved August 6 & August 13, 2025 minutes (4-0-1 abstain)

Village Council Meeting

The Ridgewood Village Council meeting will begin with a call to order by the mayor, followed by a statement of compliance with the Open Public Meeting Act. After a roll call of the village clerk, members will hear brief public comments limited to three minutes per speaker. The council will then discuss the agenda items for September 10, 2025, and any other council business before adjourning.

• Call to Order – Mayor
• Statement of compliance with the Open Public Meeting Act
• Roll Call – Village Clerk
• Public comments (max 3 minutes per person)
• Discussion of September 10 agenda and other council business

The Village Council voted unanimously to defeat the ordinance that would have created the S-1 Senior Overlay Zone district, which would have allowed an assisted living facility at North Maple Avenue, Franklin Avenue, and Marshall Street. With the ordinance defeated, the council is no longer involved in the proposed facility. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

• Defeated S-1 Senior Overlay Zone ordinance (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Village Council Meeting

The Ridgewood Village Council held a special public meeting. Items on the agenda include a public comment period, a resolution to enter a closed session, and discussion of the fourth round of affordable housing. The meeting concluded with adjournment.

• Resolution to go into closed session
• Discussion of fourth round affordable housing
• Public comments from residents
• Roll call of council members
• Adjournment of the meeting

The council voted to defeat the proposed S‑1 Senior Overlay Zone District ordinance covering the area bounded by North Maple Avenue, Franklin Avenue and Marshall Street. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous voice vote.

• Defeated S‑1 Senior Overlay Zone District ordinance (no vote tally provided)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Fields Committee

The Ridgewood Fields Working Group will approve the June 3, 2025 meeting minutes and receive updates on the Fields and Recreational Facility Policy revision, the Schedler property, the Perry Weather Platform, and field closures. The group will also review the 2025 fall sports schedule and a maintenance request for a VOR Broadleaf application. Member reports and a brief public comment period are included.

• Approval of June 3, 2025 meeting minutes
• Fields and Recreational Facility Policy revision update (K. Kazmark & M. Schawrz)
• Schedler Property update (K. Kazmark)
• Perry Weather Platform update (K. Cook)
• Facility Maintenance Request: VOR Broadleaf application (Aug. 28, 2025) and field closure (M. Andreula)

The committee approved the June 3, 2025 minutes with unanimous support. The meeting was then adjourned at 9:07 am by unanimous vote. No other substantive actions or approvals were recorded.

• Approved June 3, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:07 am (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Ridgewood Zoning Board of Adjustment will hear five applications for residential variances, including a continued request for a second-floor addition and a new single-family home. The meeting will also include a resolution memorialization for two properties.

• Continued request for second-floor addition at 325 Crest Road
• Request for pergola addition at 584 Highland Avenue
• Request for new single-family dwelling at 155 Phelps Road
• Request for one-story addition at 310 Abbey Court
• Request for attic addition at 230 Fairfield Avenue

The Zoning Board approved three applications for variances and construction. It approved Michael & Kristin O’Donoghue’s pergola request at 584 Highland Avenue, conditioning the deck to remain open with no screens. It approved Matthew & Katherine Meyers’ new single‑family dwelling at 155 Phelps Road, with conditions that the attic not be habitable and the field house not serve as a second residence. It approved John Comatas’ one‑story addition at 310 Abbey Court.

• Approved O’Donoghue pergola at 584 Highland Ave; deck must stay open, no screens
• Approved Meyers new single‑family home at 155 Phelps Rd; attic non‑habitable, field house not a second residence
• Approved Comatas one‑story addition at 310 Abbey Court (no conditions noted)

Village Council Meeting

The Ridgewood Village Council will hold a special public meeting to discuss the disposal of a green acre property at 308-316 South Broad Street. The meeting includes a presentation on the history and funding path for the land and a public hearing to gather resident input.

• Public hearing on disposal of green acres land at 308-316 South Broad Street
• Presentation on history, impact, and future funding of green acres land
• Meeting held at Patrick A. Manucioso Senior Center, 1st Floor, Ridgewood Village Hall

The Village Council met to discuss the diversion and disposal of Green Acres land, its impact on funding eligibility, and a remediation plan. No formal actions, approvals, or votes were recorded during the meeting.

Ridgewood Arts Council

The Ridgewood Arts Council will finalize September–November events including a Chalk Festival, Porchfest, Jazz Coffee House, and Artober, and discuss Octoberfest. Volunteers and sponsors are needed for multiple events, and the next meeting is scheduled for October 6th.

• Chalk Festival on September 27th — flyer, time, regulations, QR code sign-up, volunteer roles
• Porchfest on September 20th — Jeanne seeking volunteers
• Jazz Coffee House on November 20th at 7:00pm at Sugar and Spice
• Artober on October 10th from 6:00pm–8:00pm at the Stable
• Older Americans Art Exhibit in May — reception on May 12th, parameters for art collection

The council scheduled the annual Chalk Festival for Saturday, September 27, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Orchard Elementary School parking lot. They assigned Zeynep Gunday to contact Crayola for possible chalk sponsorship, and Marc Cantor to arrange his band Sub‑bourbonites to perform. Additional event plans include Octoberfest on Oct 12, a Jazz Coffee House on Nov 20, and volunteer coordination for Porchfest on Sep 20.

• Schedule Chalk Festival for Sep 27, 8 am‑2 pm at Orchard Elementary School parking lot
• Assign Zeynep Gunday to contact Crayola Factory for chalk sponsorship
• Assign Marc Cantor to arrange Sub‑bourbonites band performance at Chalk Festival
• Plan Octoberfest for Oct 12, 10 am‑5 pm
• Plan Jazz Coffee House event for Nov 20 at Sugar and Spice, 7 pm
• Assign Julie Mchedlishvili to connect Karen Orlin with Jeanne Johnson for Porchfest volunteers
• Assign Frank Mortimer to connect Julie with Octoberfest organizers for face‑painting inquiry
• Assign Julie Mchedlishvili to contact Athena Maxwell about volunteer art students for face painting

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will review two property applications and discuss materials for a bus shelter. The body will also consider the adoption of the August 11, 2025, meeting minutes.

• Proposed addition at 288 Woodside Avenue (Leahy)
• Demolition and proposed new dwelling at 347 S. Maple Avenue (Patel & Sebastian)
• Discussion regarding bus shelter materials

The commission confirmed compliance with the Open Public Meetings Act and recorded a roll call of members. It adopted the minutes from the August 11, 2025 meeting. Two applications were noted for review: a proposed addition at 288 Woodside Avenue and a demolition and new dwelling at 347 S. Maple Avenue. No approvals, denials, or other substantive actions were recorded.

Green Ridgewood

The Green Ridgewood committee meets to discuss updates from Columbia University’s Bergen County Saddle River Project, artificial turf strategy, and ongoing sustainability initiatives. The group also reviews student projects, stormwater resilience efforts, and Sustainable NJ certification progress.

• Columbia University: Bergen County Saddle River Project report and discussion
• Schedler decision on artificial turf vs. grass strategy
• Ridgewood Water conservation strategy update
• 2025 Sustainable NJ certification review
• Rain gardens and stormwater resilience outreach with Rutgers

The board unanimously approved the July 10 meeting minutes. The Village Council voted to authorize the Schedler park plan, which includes installing artificial turf. Green Ridgewood members decided not to oppose the artificial‑turf proposal before the Council. An upcoming public hearing will address a 1983 park diversion issue on S. Broad Street.

• Approved July 10 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Village Council authorized Schedler park plan with artificial turf (vote recorded)
• Green Ridgewood subgroup decided not to oppose the Schedler artificial‑turf proposal
• Updated Green Ridgewood leadership roles (David to GBS chair, Peter to Resource Management chair, Bill to Secretary, Justin to Vice Chair, Beth stepping down)
• Selected a new Green Team member, pending Village Council appointment

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will discuss Ridgewood Water improvements, including PFAS treatment facilities and a bulk water purchase agreement with the Borough of Hawthorne. The body will also consider budget amendments for several state grants and contracts for village equipment and tree planting.

• Reject bids for Cedar Hill PFAS Treatment Facility
• Amend Chapter 145 parking violation fees at Ridgewood Train Station
• Shared Services Agreement for bulk water purchase from Borough of Hawthorne
• Professional services contracts for remediation of Schedler Property
• Green Acres disposal of land at South Broad Street

The Village Council heard public comments about senior programming and sidewalk repairs, and received a manager’s report on ongoing projects such as the Schedler development, park improvements, road resurfacing, and PFAS treatment. No motions were adopted, denied, or tabled, and no vote tallies were recorded.

Village Council Meeting

The Ridgewood Village Council will hold a special public meeting on September 3, 2025, at 7:30 PM to conduct a roll call and adopt a resolution. The only substantive item is Resolution 25-361, which will reject all bids for a PFAS treatment facility at Cedar Hill via a consent agenda vote.

• Resolution 25-361: Reject all bids for Cedar Hill PFAS treatment facility

The council adopted Resolution 25‑361 on the consent agenda with a single council vote. No details of the resolution's content were provided in the minutes. The meeting was then adjourned after a motion carried unanimously by voice vote.

• Adopted Resolution 25‑361 (consent agenda)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Village Council Meeting

The Ridgewood Village Council convened a special public meeting to comply with the Open Public Meeting Act. The agenda included procedural items, public comments, and a resolution to enter closed session for personnel and planning matters.

• Resolution to enter closed session for personnel appointments and Village Planner matters

Planning Board

The Ridgewood Planning Board has canceled its regular meeting scheduled for September 2, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. in the Village Hall Courtroom. The next regular meeting will be held on September 16, 2025, at the same location and time.

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled for August 26, 2025, has been canceled. This notice also confirms the cancellation of the August 12, 2025, meeting.

• Application for 3 Paul Court carried to September 23, 2025
• Application for 325 Crest Road carried to September 9, 2025

Stigma-Free Committee

The Stigma-Free Committee will hear from a guest speaker from the NJ Governor's Council on Mental Health. The body will discuss participation in International Overdose Awareness Day and updates on SAMHSA funding cuts for LGBTQ+ youth crisis services.

• Guest speaker Cynthia Chazen, Stigma Ambassador of NJ Governor's Council on Mental Health
• Village participation in International Overdose Awareness Day on August 31, 2025
• Youth Mental Health First Aid Training on September 12, 2025
• Mayors Wellness Campaign kickoff on September 13, 2025
• Narcan Training on October 28, 2025

The committee introduced new members from Ridgewood Public Schools. Guest speaker Cynthia Chazen briefed the group on the New Jersey Governor’s Council on Mental Health Stigma and its initiatives. Members noted the village’s participation in International Overdose Awareness Day and announced several upcoming trainings and events. No formal actions, approvals, or votes were recorded.

Planning Board

The Ridgewood Planning Board has canceled its August 19, 2025 meeting as per the Open Public Meetings Act. All meetings remain open to the public, and the next regular meeting is scheduled for September 2, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. in the Village Hall Courtroom.

Ridgewood's Access Committee

The Access Ridgewood committee is meeting to review reports from the Village Council and various departments. The body will discuss planning for Access Week and new initiatives regarding the July 4th parade and sensory-friendly dinners.

• Planning for Access Week
• July 4th Parade initiative
• Sensory-Friendly Dinners
• Treasurer position

The committee approved the corrected June 20, 2025 minutes. Members agreed that Jesse will write a letter to the July 4 Committee requesting accessibility accommodations. Jeff will launch the ACCESS website within the next week, and sensory‑friendly dinners will resume in the fall. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved corrected June 20, 2025 minutes (motion passed)
• Jesse agreed to write a letter to the July 4 Committee on behalf of ACCESS
• Jeff will launch the ACCESS website within the next week
• Sensory‑Friendly Dinners will resume in the fall
• Committee will include RHS principal Jeffrey Nyhuis in future ASL event communications
• Committee will not appoint a new Treasurer at this time

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will discuss several multi-million dollar contracts for PFAS treatment facilities and water main replacements. The meeting also includes public hearings on salary ordinances and the establishment of a senior overlay zone district.

• Contracts for PFAS Treatment Facilities: Cedar Hill ($5,933,933.04), Mountain ($3,554,013), and Main ($3,300,000)
• Lead Service Line Replacements contract awarded to Reivax Contracting Corporation (NTE $2,253,650)
• Bond Ordinance for parking kiosks and professional consultant (NTE $1,372,000)
• Bond Ordinance for an option to purchase Warner Theater at 190 East Ridgewood Avenue (NTE $250,000)
• Public hearings for White Collar and Blue Collar Salary Ordinances and an S-1 Senior Overlay Zone District

The council accepted the July 31, 2025 financial reports and approved the minutes from June 25, July 2, and July 9, 2025. It also adopted Ordinance #4054, amending Chapter 269 of the Village Water Code, on first reading. All three actions passed unanimously.

• Accepted July 31, 2025 financial reports (5-0)
• Approved June 25, July 2, July 9, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance #4054 on first reading (5-0)

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will meet to discuss awarding contracts for a Main PFAS Treatment Facility and affordable housing services. The body will also consider authorizing a shared services agreement for a Special Law Enforcement Officer III with the Ridgewood Board of Education.

• Award contract for construction of Main PFAS Treatment Facility
• Award contract for Affordable Housing Services
• Shared Services Agreement for Special Law Enforcement Officer III (Ridgewood Board of Education)

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council is holding a special public meeting to enter a closed session. The council will discuss a legal update regarding the Ridgewood Water PFAS lawsuit and negotiations for a water purchase agreement with the Borough of Hawthorne.

• Legal update on Ridgewood Water PFAS lawsuit
• Negotiations for water purchase agreement from the Borough of Hawthorne

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Ridgewood Zoning Board of Adjustment canceled its August 12, 2025 meeting and two public hearings. Two pending applications were carried over to later dates without further notice.

• Canceled meeting on August 12, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. in Village Hall Courtroom
• Andrei Basov and Maria Kalinina application moved to September 23, 2025
• Justin and Gassia Fox application moved to September 9, 2025

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will meet to review applications for signage and construction changes. The body will also vote on the adoption of the June 9, 2025, meeting minutes.

• L.A.N.D. of Ridgewood, 27 West Ridgewood Ave: directory sign
• Cooper, 153 Carlisle Terrace: garage demolition and new garage
• Meyers, 155 Phelps Road: materials

The Historic Preservation Commission approved three applications as submitted: the L.A.N.D. sign project at 2529 West Ridgewood, a new garage at 153 Carlisle Terrace, and a new house at 155 Phelps. The demolition ordinance was not approved as submitted due to insufficient Ordinance Committee votes. The commission also agreed to notify it of any demolition applications by email, to pursue revisions of historic district boundaries and expand the Village Center Historic District, and to hold a public informational event on October 25 at the James Rose Center.

• Approved L.A.N.D. of Ridgewood 2529 West Ridgewood sign project (as submitted)
• Approved Cooper 153 Carlisle Terrace new garage (as submitted)
• Approved Meyers 155 Phelps new house (as submitted)
• Demolition ordinance not approved as submitted
• Agreed to notify HPC of any demolition applications via email
• Agreed to pursue HP1 & HP6 to revise historic district boundaries and expand Village Center Historic District
• Scheduled informational event on Saturday, October 25 at James Rose Center
• Gail, Janis and Stacey assigned to prepare presentation for the event

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will hold a public workshop to discuss awarding multiple contracts for water infrastructure and PFAS treatment facilities. The body will also review proposed amendments to affordable housing and zoning standards.

• Contracts for Lead Service Line Replacements and PFAS Treatment Facilities at Cedar Hill and Mountain
• Bond Ordinance for the purchase of the Warner Theater down payment
• Bond Ordinance for parking kiosks, license plate readers, and a parking consultant
• Proposed amendments to Chapter 190 regarding affordable housing fees and B-1, B-2, and TO-1 zoning districts
• Agreement with Township of Wyckoff for road improvements on Hartung Drive and Carlton Road

The Ridgewood Village Council held a regular public work session and heard a Matrix presentation on the Schedler property soil remediation plan. The council reviewed findings from the New Jersey Department of Health and a proposed contract for Matrix services up to $329,760. No vote or formal approval was recorded during the meeting.

Planning Board

The Ridgewood Planning Board will meet to review a proposed ordinance regarding land use and development. The board will also adopt minutes from the July 15, 2025 meeting.

• Review of proposed Ordinance #4052 to establish S-1 Senior Overlay Zone District on Block 3611, Lots 1, 19 and 22

The Ridgewood Planning Board adopted the July 15, 2025 minutes as drafted. The board swore in Beth McManus as the affordable‑housing planning consultant and Christopher Rutishauser as Village Engineer. Members discussed Ordinance #4052 to create an S‑1 Senior Overlay Zone but did not vote on it. The board decided to draft a letter to the Council summarizing their concerns.

• Adopted July 15, 2025 minutes as drafted
• Swore in Beth McManus as Planning Consultant for Affordable Housing
• Swore in Christopher Rutishauser as Village Engineer
• Reviewed Ordinance #4052 to establish S‑1 Senior Overlay Zone (no vote)
• Decided to draft and send a letter to the Council outlining board concerns

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council is meeting for a special public session. The primary purpose is to enter a closed session to discuss specific negotiations, legal matters, and personnel.

• Negotiations regarding Warner Theater
• Legal matters regarding Valley Hospital
• Personnel matters regarding Boards and Committees

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings for two residential property owners seeking variances for setbacks and lot coverage. The board will also memorialize a resolution for a property on North Monroe Street.

• 316 South Irving Street: Application for a covered front porch and side mudroom addition
• 562 Lotus Road: Application for a covered open front porch
• 535 North Monroe Street: Resolution memorialization

The Zoning Board of Adjustment approved the variance applications of Timothy & Kathryn Hlavachek (316 South Irving Street) and Michael & Joy Leff (562 Lotus Road). Both approvals required that the front porch not be enclosed. Each application passed with a 4‑yes to 1‑no vote. Two resolutions for Carter and Leung properties were also memorialized.

• Approved Hlavachek porch variance with condition front porch not enclosed (4‑1)
• Approved Leff porch variance with condition front porch not enclosed (4‑1)
• Memorialized resolution for Carter, 535 North Monroe Street, Block 1603, Lot 21
• Memorialized resolution for Leung, 256 Ivy Place, Block 3910, Lot 2

Planning Board

The Ridgewood Planning Board will review a proposed ordinance to create a senior overlay zone. The board will also adopt minutes from June meetings and hear public comments.

• Review of proposed Ordinance # 4052 to establish S-1 Senior Overlay Zone District on Block 3611, Lots 1, 19 and 22

The Ridgewood Planning Board reviewed proposed Ordinance #4052 to create an S‑1 Senior Overlay Zone on Block 3611, Lots 1, 19 and 22. The Board did not vote on the ordinance and will send its comments to the Mayor and Council. A public hearing on the ordinance is scheduled for the Council in August.

• Board did not vote on Ordinance #4052; will forward comments to Mayor and Council

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission meeting scheduled for July 14, 2025, has been canceled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for August 11, 2025.

Open Space Committee

The Open Space Committee meets to review updates on the Open Space Tax Referendum, NJ Green Acres Diversion progress, and property updates like Schedler Park. Liaison reports and public awareness campaigns for the referendum are also discussed.

• Open Space Tax Referendum: document wording, public awareness, PR campaign ideas
• NJ Green Acres Diversion 2025 progress update
• Schedler Park property update
• Introduction of student intern Jessica Van Aker
• Membership resignation: Bob Lasky

The committee approved the May meeting notes after the June meeting lacked a quorum. It decided there will be no August Open Space Committee meeting and set the next meeting for September 11, 2025. Members were assigned tasks for the upcoming tax referendum, including a September 14 street‑fair booth, a brochure meeting on August 14, and a press release. Upcoming events include park walks on July 12 and July 26 and a meeting with the SHPO on July 21 regarding Schedler Park.

• Approved May meeting notes
• Cancelled August Open Space Committee meeting
• Scheduled next meeting for September 11, 2025 at 7:00 PM
• Assigned Jessica Van Aken as intern to assist with tax referendum outreach
• Planned OSC booth at September 14 street fair, 11:00‑5:00 PM (Jim to staff)
• Set August 14 meeting to finalize referendum brochure (Matt, Jessica, Katie, Frank)
• Scheduled Schedler Park meeting with SHPO for July 21
• Scheduled park walks: Grove Park on July 12 and Graydon Pool on July 26

Green Ridgewood

The committee will review the status, data, and milestones of the Columbia University Bergen County Saddle River Project. Members will also discuss resource management, student projects, and stormwater resilience.

• Columbia University Bergen County Saddle River Project status and potential Environmental Learning Center(s)
• Resource Management updates on leaf blowers and the NJ Climate Superfund Act
• Planning for July 22 meeting with Board of Education and Superintendent
• Rain gardens and landscaper outreach with Rutgers scheduled for October
• Finance update following meeting with CFO Bob Rooney

The council approved a ballot measure that would increase the open‑space tax by one penny per $100 of assessed value. It also approved contracts for a new PFAS treatment facility and for replacing the Village Hall roof. A planned park‑cleanup event was deferred, and the 2024 Fourth Round Housing Plan was approved with modifications.

• Approved ballot initiative to increase open‑space tax (one penny per $100 assessed value)
• Approved contract for new PFAS treatment facility and software upgrades
• Awarded contract for Village Hall roof replacement (solar panels to be removed)
• Deferred park‑cleanup event at King’s Pond; Pam to pitch proposal later
• Approved 2024 Fourth Round Housing Plan with modifications
• Unanimously approved June 5, 2025 meeting minutes

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will consider awarding a contract for the construction of the Eastside Reservoir PFAS Treatment Facility. The body is also introducing ordinances for union salaries, a senior overlay zone, and a special improvement district.

• Contract for Eastside Reservoir PFAS Treatment Facility to Scafar Contracting, Inc. (NTE $7,776,500)
• Proposed Senior Overlay Zone District on Block 3611, Lots 1, 19 and 22
• Public hearing for increasing sanitary sewer collection system connection fees
• Contract for South Pleasant Avenue resurfacing to Smith-Sondy Asphalt Construction Company, Inc. (NTE $413,102.62)
• Proposed establishment of a Special Improvement District (SID) and Non-Profit District Management Corporation

The Village Council voted to accept the Bills, Claims, Vouchers and Statement of Funds as of June 30, 2025. It also approved the minutes from the May 28, June 9 and June 11, 2025 meetings. Several proclamations honoring local volunteers, athletes and Disability Pride Month were adopted, and the Council noted it will address handicapped parking shortages for next year's Fourth of July events.

• Accepted Bills, Claims, Vouchers and Statement of Funds as of June 30, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved minutes for May 28, June 9, and June 11, 2025 (5-0)
• Adopted proclamation for July Parks and Recreation Month
• Adopted proclamation honoring Charles “Charley” DiMarco
• Adopted proclamation for July as Disability Pride Month
• Adopted proclamation honoring Luke Pash, 2025 Gatorade Track & Field Athlete of the Year
• Adopted recognition of Deirdre Tobin, Boys Tennis Coach of the Year
• Committed to address handicapped parking shortages at Fourth of July events next year

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council is meeting to discuss the award of a construction contract for the Eastside Reservoir PFAS Treatment Facility. The meeting also includes time for public comments and business with the Village Planner.

• Award Contract - Construction of Eastside Reservoir PFAS Treatment Facility

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on three property applications. The board is considering variances for a tree house, a patio and outdoor kitchen, and a new autobody shop.

• Proposed autobody shop at 246–264 South Broad Street involving lot consolidation and use variance
• Application for a 135 SF tree house at 3 Paul Court
• Application for a patio, hot tub, and outdoor kitchen at 535 North Monroe Avenue
• Resolution memorialization for 718 Hillcrest Road

The Board adopted the minutes from the June 10, 2025 meeting. The Basov and Kalanina 3 Paul Court application was carried over to August 12, 2025. The Board approved Kathleen Carter’s variance for a patio, hot tub and outdoor kitchen at 535 North Monroe Avenue. No decision was made on the LES DANN, LLC auto‑body‑shop variance; the hearing was continued.

• Adopted June 10, 2025 minutes
• Basov and Kalanina 3 Paul Court application carried over to Aug 12, 2025
• Approved Kathleen Carter patio, hot tub and outdoor kitchen variance (535 North Monroe Ave)
• LES DANN, LLC auto‑body‑shop variance hearing continued, no decision

Village Council Meeting

The Ridgewood Village Council will hold a public workshop to discuss budget amendments, contract awards, and policy changes. The meeting includes a presentation on Central Business District murals and a closed session regarding Warner Theater contract negotiations.

• Proposed establishment of S-1 Senior Overlay Zone District (Chapter 190)
• Proposed local referendum to increase Ridgewood's Open Space Tax Levy
• Contract awards for Village Hall roof replacement and Train Station pedestrian stairwell repair
• Resolution to rescind and replace contract for Glen Pickleball Courts renovation
• Endorsement of Fourth Round Housing Element and Fair Share Plan

The Ridgewood Village Council met on July 2, 2025, with Councilmembers Mortimer, Perron, Weitz, Winograd, and Mayor Vagianos in attendance. Residents voiced concerns about the safety of artificial turf, citing studies from U.S. EPA, CDC, and New Jersey environmental agencies. No motions, approvals, denials, or vote tallies were recorded in the minutes.

Planning Board

The Planning Board public meeting and work session scheduled for July 1, 2025, has been canceled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for July 15, 2025.

Community Center Advisory Board

The Community Center Advisory Board will review a proposed mission statement and the efforts of the Community Center Revitalization Task Force. The board will also plan for a Workshop Meeting presentation scheduled for August 6th.

• Mission Statement Proposal
• Review of Community Center Revitalization Task Force efforts
• Planning for August 6th Workshop Meeting presentation
• Age-Friendly Report
• Intergenerational Activities Report by Civic Youth Corps Members

The board approved the amended May meeting minutes, removing Beth Abbott from the attendance list, with all members in favor. It also scheduled the next Community Center Advisory Board meeting for September 25 at 5 p.m.

• Approved amended May minutes (all in favor)
• Scheduled next meeting for September 25 at 5 p.m.

Residential Flood Advisory Committee

The meeting scheduled for June 25, 2025, has been postponed. The agenda had included the approval of March 26, 2025 minutes and a tour of flood-prone areas.

• Approval of March 26, 2025 meeting minutes
• Committee tour of Saddle River, Ho-Ho-Kus Brook, and stormwater drainage issues

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council is holding a special public meeting to enter a closed session. The closed session will cover security, investigative, and negotiation matters.

• Closed session regarding Social Media Policy (Security and Investigative Matters)
• Closed session regarding Warner Theater (Negotiation Matters)

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will review a feasibility study for a Special Improvement District. The body will also discuss awarding multiple contracts for infrastructure, equipment, and facility repairs.

• Presentation on Special Improvement District Feasibility Study by Economic Development Strategists, LLC
• Contract for South Pleasant resurfacing with enhanced improvements for the disabled
• Contract for Village Hall roof replacement
• Contract for ADA Playground at Habernickel Park
• Contract for SCADA System upgrades at Water Pollution Control Facility

The June 25, 2025 Village Council regular public work session included public comments on artificial turf and updates on infrastructure projects. No motions were voted on, approved, denied, or tabled during the meeting. The session consisted mainly of reports and discussion.

Parks, Recreation & Conservation Board

The Parks, Recreation, and Conservation Board will discuss updates on park infrastructure and summer programming. The meeting includes reports from various village committees and a review of the 2025 Kasschau Shell schedule.

• Habernickel Park pavilion project update
• Veterans Memorial Park lighting upgrade
• Court resurfacing and renovation
• NYNJ Trail Conference Proposal
• Green Acres Diversion and Schedler Property

The Parks, Recreation, and Conservation Board approved the May 2025 minutes with motions by J. Morgan and J. Buckley. All members present voted in favor. No other actions were voted on; the remaining agenda items were reports or proposals without a decision.

• Approved May 2025 minutes (all in favor)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on four residential applications. The board is deciding on requests for building height increases and setback reductions for homes in R-1, R-110, and R-2 zones.

• 325 Crest Road: Request for 37-foot building height and 27.9% gross building area
• 220 Orchard Place: Request for front yard setback of 25.29 feet and 6-foot fence height
• 718 Hillcrest Road: Request for 33-foot building height and reduced side yard setbacks
• 535 North Monroe Avenue: Request for patio, hot tub, and outdoor kitchen with reduced setbacks

The Zoning Board of Adjustment approved the Wilson application for a rear addition and height variance at 718 Hillcrest Road. Several other applications were carried forward: the Fox application at 325 Crest Road to August 12, 2025; the Louros application at 220 Orchard Place to August 12, 2025; and the Carter application at 535 North Monroe Street to July 8, 2025. A resolution concerning 199 Spencer Place was memorialized, and the meeting adjourned at 10:55 p.m.

• Approved Wilson rear‑addition and height variance (718 Hillcrest Road)
• Carried Fox application (325 Crest Road) to Aug 12 2025
• Carried Louros single‑family dwelling application (220 Orchard Place) to Aug 12 2025
• Carried Carter patio, hot‑tub, and outdoor‑kitchen application (535 North Monroe St) to Jul 8 2025
• Memorialized resolution for St. John (199 Spencer Place, Block 2301, Lot 4)
• Meeting adjourned at 10:55 p.m.

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding the Fourth Round Housing Element and Fair Share Plan amendment to the Master Plan. The board may also vote to memorialize the resolution for this amendment.

• Public hearing on the Fourth Round Housing Element and Fair Share Plan amendment to the Master Plan
• Memorialization of the Resolution on the Fourth Round Housing Element and Fair Share Plan amendment to the Master Plan

The Board held a public hearing on the Fourth Round Housing Element and Fair Share Plan amendment to the Master Plan. After deliberation, the Board voted to adopt the plan, with one member voting against it. The adoption was memorialized in a resolution before the meeting adjourned.

• Adopted Fourth Round Housing Element and Fair Share Plan (1 board member voted against)

Ridgewood's Access Committee

The Access Ridgewood committee is meeting to review reports on sensory-friendly programming and a hearing grant. Members will discuss an interfaith event for Access Week and updates to the committee's Village website page.

• Sensory-Friendly Touch-a-Truck and BBQ
• Sensory-Friendly Dinner report
• Hearing grant report
• Interfaith event during Access Week
• Village website Access page updates

The Access Committee approved the minutes from the May meeting after a motion and second. Emily Cathcart was appointed to take over as Recording Secretary. Danielle replaced Surbhi on the committee following a grant change. No other formal decisions were recorded.

• Approved May meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Appointed Emily Cathcart as Recording Secretary
• Replaced Surbhi with Danielle on the committee

Stigma-Free Committee

The committee is coordinating upcoming mental health events and training sessions. Members are discussing fall programming and a Community Health Needs Assessment due July 31, 2025.

• Youth Mental Health First Aid Training on September 12, 2025
• Proposed Mayors Wellness Campaign
• Proposed Narcan Training
• Proposed viewing of The Upstanders and/or Race to be Human with Ridgewood Library
• Community Health Needs Assessment due July 31, 2025

The committee reported a staff change at the Health Department and the reinstatement of two public‑health grants. Upcoming activities discussed included a September youth mental‑health first‑aid training, a fall wellness campaign, Narcan training, and a $70,000 county grant for hearing loops at Village Hall. No formal actions, approvals, or votes were recorded during the meeting.

Planning Board

The Planning Board meeting scheduled for June 17, 2025, has been canceled. The provided document is a notice of meeting schedule amendments.

Central Business District Advisory Committee

The Central Business District Advisory Committee will review findings from a May 8 parking meeting to develop recommendations for the Village Council. The meeting includes updates on public art and pedestrian tunnels, and a presentation on new bus shelters.

• Follow-up on May 8, 2025 Parking Meeting for Village Council recommendations
• Overview of new bus shelters by Carol Bialkowski
• Presentation by RHS students Aarav Motivala and Hemang Mital regarding local businesses
• Updates on Pedestrian Tunnel and Public Art Initiatives

The committee reviewed updates from the Village Council, including contract renewals and project reports, and heard presentations on crossing‑guard options, a student marketing project, and a bus‑shelter grant application. No motions, votes, or approvals were recorded during the meeting.

Open Space Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss the wording and public awareness campaign for an Open Space Tax Referendum. Members will also review updates on the NJ Green Acres Diversion and the Schedler Park property.

• Open Space Tax Referendum wording and PR campaign
• NJ Green Acres Diversion 2025 progress update
• Schedler Park property update
• Resignation of member Bob Lasky
• 2025 Park Walks and rain garden stewardship

The committee lacked a quorum, so the May meeting notes were not approved. The Village Council approved placing the open space tax referendum on the November ballot, with wording to be finalized before the July meeting. The July Open Space Committee meeting is set for July 10, 2025, and the August meeting was cancelled. Committee members were assigned follow‑up tasks for the referendum and other projects.

• May meeting notes not approved (no quorum)
• Village Council approved adding open space tax referendum to November ballot
• July Open Space Committee meeting scheduled for July 10, 2025
• August Open Space Committee meeting cancelled
• No quorum, so no official business was conducted
• Initial Green Acres Diversion paperwork submitted to Trenton ahead of schedule
• Two OSC members attended special Planning Board meeting on affordable housing
• Ridgewood representatives to meet with SHPO to finalize Schedler Park development plans

Citizens Safety Advisory Committee

The committee will discuss public comments regarding the intersection of No. Maple and Franklin. Members will receive updates on sight triangle obstructions, light timing at Oak/Glen/Maple, and accident reporting.

• Public comments on No. Maple & Franklin intersection
• Updates on sight triangle obstruction locations
• County input and light timing for Oak/Glen/Maple
• Updates on incident and accident reporting from RPD
• Updates from CBDAC

The committee set a date for a Safe Routes to School information meeting on June 18, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 8 PM at Village Hall. A driver feedback sign will be installed on East Glen near Northern Parkway. Members and advisors agreed to respond to public comments after all visitors have spoken. The next CSAC meeting was scheduled for September 18, 2025.

• Scheduled Safe Routes to School info meeting (June 18, 2025, 5:30‑8 PM, Village Hall)
• Approved installation of driver feedback sign on East Glen near Northern Parkway
• Adopted protocol for members and advisors to respond to public comments after all visitors have spoken
• Set next CSAC meeting for September 18, 2025

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a special public meeting to hear a presentation from the Village of Ridgewood Affordable Housing Planning Consultant. The discussion concerns the Village's Fourth Round Affordable Housing Obligation under the New Jersey Fair Housing Act.

• Presentation on Fourth Round Affordable Housing Obligation under the New Jersey Fair Housing Act

The Planning Board adopted the minutes from the May 6, 2025 meeting. The board decided to lower the proposed density for Chestnut Street to 30 dwelling units per acre.

• Adopted May 6, 2025 minutes (decision)
• Changed Chestnut Street density to 30 dwelling units per acre (decision)

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will consider several contracts for PFAS water treatment facilities and road repairs. The body is also reviewing a proposal to increase sanitary sewer connection fees.

• Three PFAS treatment system contracts with Calgon Carbon Corporation totaling up to $794,203
• Road resurfacing and repair contracts for Ridgewood, Glen Rock, and Wyckoff totaling up to $575,000
• Crossing Guard Services contract with All City Management Services, Inc. up to $576,352
• Proposed Ordinance 4049 to increase fees for residential and non-residential sanitary sewer connections
• Bank Stabilization contract at Ho-Ho-Kus Brook along the Dunham Trail up to $347,100

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will meet for a special public session. The agenda consists of procedural items and general discussion of council business.

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing regarding a development application for an autobody shop. The board will also memorialize a resolution for a property on South Van Dien Avenue.

• Public hearing for LES DANN, LLC regarding use variance, site plan approval, and bulk variances for an autobody shop at 246–264 South Broad Street
• Resolution memorialization for Mathew at 314 South Van Dien Avenue

The Board adopted the minutes from the May 13 and May 27, 2025 meetings. Two resolutions were memorialized for properties on South Van Dien Avenue and Parsons Road. The hearing on LES DANN, LLC’s variance, site plan and bulk variances was carried over to July 8, 2025.

• Adopted minutes from May 13, 2025
• Adopted minutes from May 27, 2025
• Memorialized resolution for Mathew, 314 South Van Dien Avenue, Block 4107, Lot 19
• Memorialized resolution for Schmidt, 739 Parsons Road, Block 1304, Lot 19
• Postponed LES DANN, LLC variance hearing to July 8, 2025

Shade Tree Commission

The Shade Tree Commission will review updates on the 1000 Tree initiative and the Adopt-a-Sapling program. Members will also coordinate preparations for Mulch Monday on June 23.

• Preparations for Mulch Monday on June 23
• Adopt-a-Sapling program update
• 1000 Tree initiative update
• Discussion of virtual options for STC meetings
• Use of Daffodil fest social media photos for fundraising

The Shade Tree Commission met on June 10, 2025, and approved the minutes from the May meeting. The commission discussed the upcoming Mulch Monday event and a proposal to plant 1,000 new trees over four years. No public comments were received and the meeting adjourned at 8:37 p.m.

• Approved May meeting minutes (no vote tally recorded)

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will discuss awarding multiple contracts for Ridgewood Water, including PFAS treatment facilities and road repairs. The body will also review budget items for equipment and facility upgrades.

• Contracts for GAC Treatment Systems at Mountain, Eastside Reservoir, and Main PFAS facilities
• Road resurfacing and repair contracts for Ridgewood, Glen Rock, and Wyckoff
• Bank stabilization at Ho-Ho-Kus Brook along the Dunham Trail
• Liquor license premises expansion for Steel Wheel Tavern
• NJDOT 2026 Municipal Aid Grant for West Ridgewood Avenue resurfacing

The Village Council awarded multiple contracts for Ridgewood Water infrastructure, including GAC treatment systems for three PFAS facilities, bank stabilization along the Ho-Ho-Kus Brook, and road resurfacing in Ridgewood, Glen Rock, and Wyckoff. The council also approved contracts for GIS software, a recycling truck, a train station concession stand, and a public relations campaign. No votes were recorded; all items were discussed as recommendations during the work session.

• Awarded GIS software contract to ESRI, Inc. ($30,200/year, 3-year term)
• Awarded GAC treatment system contracts to Calgon Carbon Corp. for Mountain ($245,340), Eastside ($303,523), and Main ($245,340) PFAS facilities
• Awarded bank stabilization contract at Ho-Ho-Kus Brook to Colonnelli Brothers, Inc. ($347,100)
• Awarded road resurfacing contract in Ridgewood/Glen Rock to J.A. Alexander, Inc. ($450,000)
• Awarded road resurfacing contract in Wyckoff to Smith-Sondy Asphalt ($125,000)
• Awarded public relations video production contract to MediaCutlet ($54,250)
• Approved year two of train station concession contract with Boxcar ($600/month)
• Authorized $75,185.29 change order for environmental services at North Walnut Street parking lot

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will discuss a bus stop station at Van Neste Square. The body will also review applications for signs, awnings, and new construction at several local addresses.

• Bus stop station at Van Neste Square
• Sign and awning at 65-67 East Ridgewood Avenue (Tacoria)
• New house at 155 Phelps Road (Meyers)
• Chimney and rooftop equipment at Old Paramus Reformed Church
• New house at 80 Monte Vista Avenue (Pietragallo)

The commission approved the Tacoria Restaurant sign with specific design amendments. It approved new residential construction at 115 Phelps Road and 80 Monte Vista Avenue, each with conditions. It approved an exhaust fan addition at 660 E. Glen Avenue as submitted. The proposed bus stop shelter at Van Neste Square was not approved pending additional information.

• Tacoria Restaurant sign (65-67 E. Ridgewood Ave.) approved with design amendments
• New house at 115 Phelps Road approved, pending letter redaction and material review
• New house at 80 Monte Vista Ave. approved as submitted
• Exhaust fan addition at 660 E. Glen Ave. approved as submitted
• Bus stop shelter at Van Neste Square pending additional information

Ridgewood Arts Council

The Ridgewood Arts Council is meeting to discuss the budget and calendar for the upcoming year. The body will review summer events and receive updates from the Ridgewood Arts Foundation.

• Next year planning and budget discussions
• ArtBeat event on June 12th at 8:00pm at Kasschau Bandshell
• Arts in the Park summer Saturday events
• Ridgewood Arts Foundation updates
• Proposed change of meeting time to 7:00pm for 2025-2026 dates

Green Ridgewood

The committee will review a project overview and data needs for the Columbia University Bergen County Saddle River Project. Members will also discuss resource management, student projects, and stormwater resilience.

• Columbia University: Bergen County Saddle River Project overview
• Resource Management & Conservation discussion on leaf blowers and NJ Climate Superfund Act
• Planning for July meeting with Board of Education and Superintendent
• Resilience, Flooding, and Stormwater activities including rain gardens and Rutgers outreach
• Community Energy Planning Grant and Green Building measurement

The board unanimously approved the minutes from the May 1 meeting. The Village Council authorized the purchase of an underground easement at 535 E. Ridgewood Avenue to connect a water pipe to a PFAS treatment facility. Jane Rouse was named chair of the Finance subcommittee, succeeding Justin Jonsson. Two vacancies were noted on the Green Building and Sustainability subcommittee.

• Approved May 1 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Authorized acquisition of underground easement at 535 E. Ridgewood Ave for water pipe to PFAS treatment facility
• Appointed Jane Rouse as chair of Finance subcommittee
• Noted two open seats on Green Building and Sustainability subcommittee

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will discuss awarding several contracts for Ridgewood Water, including PFAS treatment facilities and road resurfacing. The body will also review budget items and liquor license authorizations.

• Contracts for Granulated Activated Carbon (GAC) Treatment Systems at Mountain, Eastside Reservoir, and Main PFAS facilities
• Road resurfacing and repair contracts for Ridgewood, Glen Rock, and Wyckoff
• Bank stabilization contract at Ho-Ho-Kus Brook along the Dunham Trail
• Liquor license premises expansion for Steel Wheel Tavern
• NJDOT 2026 Municipal Aid Grant for West Ridgewood Avenue resurfacing

Fields Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss the Master Library fall schedules due June 20, 2025, and coordinate upcoming summer special events. The agenda includes a presentation regarding Benjamin Franklin Middle School and a review of communications from the Citizens Safety Advisory Committee.

• Fall schedules for Master Library (August 11 – November 30, 2025)
• Maroons Soccer Tournament (June 13, 14 & 15)
• Diamond Baseball Camp (June 30 – July 11)
• RBSA Softball Camp (July 6-25)
• RJFA TNT Sports Camp (June 6 – July 26)

The committee approved the minutes from the April 1, 2025 meeting. Members voted unanimously to schedule the next Fields Committee meeting for August 5, 2025 at 8:00 a.m. No other motions were adopted.

• Approved April 1, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved next meeting on August 5, 2025 at 8:00 a.m. (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board meeting scheduled for June 3, 2025, has been canceled. A special public meeting is scheduled for June 12, 2025, to discuss affordable housing obligations.

• Cancellation of June 3 and June 17, 2025 meetings
• Special Public Meeting on June 12, 2025 regarding Fourth Round Affordable Housing Obligation

Community Center Advisory Board

The Community Center Advisory Board will meet to review its mission statement and address the need for new treasurers. The board will also receive reports on age-friendly and intergenerational activities.

• Discussion of Mission Statement
• Search for new Treasurer(s)
• Scheduling of Workshop Meeting for July 9th
• Review of Second Luncheon Series Event held May 27

The board unanimously approved the April meeting minutes. The next Community Center Advisory Board meeting was set for June 26 at 5 p.m. No other formal actions were recorded in this session.

• Approved April minutes (all in favor)
• Scheduled next meeting for June 26 at 5 p.m.

Village Council Meeting

The Ridgewood Village Council convened a special public meeting on May 28, 2025, to comply with open meeting laws and allow public comment. The council also entered closed session to discuss personnel matters related to the Municipal Court Judge and updates on the Green Acres Diversion.

• Closed session for Municipal Court Judge personnel issues
• Closed session for legal update on Green Acres Diversion

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will discuss placing a referendum question on the general election ballot to increase the open space tax. The body will also consider several contract awards for village services and equipment, as well as a fee increase for sanitary sewer connections.

• Proposed referendum to increase Ridgewood's Open Space Tax
• Increase fees for connection to sanitary sewer collection system
• Contracts for crossing guard services and firefighter gear
• Contract for flood gates at Village Hall
• Grant application for hearing loops at Annie Zusy Youth Center, Patrick A. Mancuso Senior Center, and Sydney V. Stoldt, Jr. Court Room

The May 28 regular public work session consisted of reports and public comments. Council members discussed upcoming events, infrastructure projects, and grant awards, but no motions were voted on or approved. No substantive decisions were recorded.

Parks, Recreation & Conservation Board

The Parks, Recreation and Conservation Board will review updates on park projects and recreation programs. The board is scheduled to discuss the facilities and fee structure under new business.

• Parks updates for Habernickel Park pavilion and Veterans Memorial Park lighting
• Conclusion of rain garden projects at Habernickel, Graydon, Maple, and Veterans Field
• Discussion of Parks and Recreation Facilities/Fee Structure
• Review of NYNJ Trail Conference Proposal
• Graydon Pool opening scheduled for May 31st

The Parks, Recreation & Conservation Board approved the April 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. The board also approved the tree ordinance presented by the Shade Tree Commission. No other substantive actions were decided at this meeting.

• Approved April 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved tree ordinance

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Ridgewood Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold its regular meeting on May 27, 2025, at 7:30 PM in the Village Hall Court Room. The board will continue public hearings on seven home-improvement applications that were carried over from earlier meetings, including rear additions, garage conversions, and new pools. No new business will be taken after 10:30 PM due to a curfew.

• Justin & Gassia Fox – rear and second-floor addition at 325 Crest Road, height variance to 37 ft
• Andrei Basov & Maria Kalinina – existing tree house at 3 Paul Court, floor-area and setback variances
• Kenneth & Patricia Leung – one-story addition, pool, and sports court at 256 Ivy Place, setback and gross-area variances
• Andrew & Meaghan Schmidt – second-story addition at 739 Parsons Road, side-yard and gross-area variances
• Nicholas & Brittany Louros – new single-family home with pool at 220 Orchard Place, multiple setback and coverage variances

The Zoning Board of Adjustment approved the variance application for Kenneth & Patricia Leung at 256 Ivy Place with conditions. It also approved the second‑story addition for Andrew & Meaghan Schmidt at 739 Parsons Road and the two‑story addition for Linoy Mathew at 314 South Van Dien Avenue. The Louros application at 220 Orchard Place was carried over to June 24, 2025. A resolution extending a variance for Kantrowitz, 126 S Hill Road, was memorialized.

• Approved Leung variance application (256 Ivy Place) with conditions
• Approved Schmidt second‑story addition application (739 Parsons Road)
• Approved Mathew two‑story addition application (314 South Van Dien Avenue) after withdrawal of circular driveway variance
• Louros new‑single‑family dwelling application (220 Orchard Place) carried to June 24, 2025
• Memorialized resolution extending variance approval for Kantrowitz, 126 S Hill Road

Stigma-Free Committee

The committee is meeting to review recent events and plan a campaign for Mental Health Awareness Month. The session includes follow-ups on training and symposiums held in April and May.

• Review of 4/28 Mental Health First Aid Training
• Review of 5/2 Bergen County Mental Health Symposium
• Planning for Mental Health Awareness Month campaign

The committee shared updates on recent health‑department events, the Mental Health Awareness Month campaign, and upcoming community activities. No formal motions, approvals, or votes were recorded. The next meeting date will be set later, with Danielle tasked to email members the details.

Planning Board

The Ridgewood Planning Board canceled its May 20, 2025 meeting at Village Hall Court Room, 131 N. Maple Avenue. The next regular meeting is scheduled for June 3, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. in the same location. All Planning Board meetings remain open to the public.

Ridgewood's Access Committee

The Access Ridgewood Committee will approve minutes, hear reports on a hearing grant and a sensory-friendly dinner, and discuss summer meeting plans. The agenda is largely procedural with no votes on ordinances or spending items.

• New member Emily Cathcart and new intern Gregory Alter introduced
• Update on hearing grant application
• Sensory-friendly dinner report
• Discussion of summer meeting schedule

The Access Committee approved the minutes from the previous meeting. Emily Cathcart was welcomed as an official member of the committee. Members voted to modify the summer schedule by skipping the July meeting, and the motion passed. The next meeting is set for Friday, June 20 at 2:00 pm via Zoom.

• Approved minutes from last meeting (motion by Ashley, seconded by Emily)
• Motion to skip July meeting and modify summer schedule passed (motion by Emily, seconded by Robin)

Citizens Safety Advisory Committee

The Citizens Safety Advisory Committee will discuss updates on sight triangle obstructions, traffic light backup at Grove and South Pleasant, and crosswalk enhancements. They will also discuss incident reporting procedures and introduce a new member. Public comments will be heard.

• Introduction of new member Marian Rutherford
• Sight triangle obstruction updates (Engineering)
• Traffic light backup at Grove & So. Pleasant (Engineering, RPD)
• Crosswalk enhancements at S. Broad & E. Ridgewood Ave (RPD, Engineering)
• Discussion of incident reporting (Bamberg)

The committee heard a public concern about speeding on East Glen Avenue and noted plans for additional speed‑limit signs. Updates were given on pedestrian crossing signs at East Glen & Northern Parkway, sight‑triangle enforcement, and pending county input on traffic signal timing. Several new actions were agreed, including RPD monitoring traffic at Grove St./South Pleasant Ave, observing Jackson Terrace and Morningside Rd for wrong‑way driving, and providing monthly bike‑ and pedestrian‑incident reports. Engineering announced state‑aid funding for resurfacing South Pleasant Avenue with new sidewalks and a bike lane, and a roundabout plan will be sent to the Board of Education for review.

• RPD will monitor traffic congestion at Grove St. and South Pleasant Ave (agreed)
• RPD will observe Jackson Terrace and Morningside Rd for wrong‑way drivers (agreed)
• RPD agreed to report bike and pedestrian incidents monthly (agreed)
• Engineering announced state‑aid project for resurfacing South Pleasant Ave with new sidewalks and a north‑side bike lane (announced)
• Engineering will submit a roundabout construction plan for Beverly Rd./Hermance Place to the Board of Education (planned)
• Sheila Brogan will follow up on sending the e‑bike letter to RHS parents (planned)
• RPD will develop an e‑bike and scooter education PowerPoint for the website and council meeting (planned)
• John Prieto discussed the e‑bike and scooter education program with Parks and Recreation (in discussion)

Kasschau Memorial Shell Committee

The Kasschau Memorial Shell Committee will review the budget and schedule for the 2025 concert series (Tuesdays and Thursdays, June 5–August 7, 8–10 pm). They will also announce a scholarship winner, update sponsor and volunteer plans, and discuss promotions. Recruitment for new chair and members for 2026 will be addressed.

• Budget review for summer 2025 concert series
• Concert dates: Tue/Thu June 5–Aug 7, 8–10 pm
• Scholarship winner announcement
• Volunteer and sponsor lineup review
• Call for new chair and members for 2026

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will hold a public hearing on Ordinance 4046 to establish a CAP Bank, conduct a 2025 budget hearing and vote on its adoption, and introduce a Project Labor Agreement ordinance for projects over $5 million. The consent agenda includes multiple contracts and change orders for water infrastructure, police ammunition, street sweeper disposal, and park improvements, as well as appointments and a historic preservation grant endorsement.

• Public hearing and adoption of 2025 Village budget (Resolutions 25-227 through 25-228)
• Ordinance 4046 – Establish a CAP Bank
• Introduction of Ordinance 4048 – Project Labor Agreement for projects over $5 million
• Award of water-related contracts: SCADA upgrade ($34,399.89) and engineering services ($66,620)
• Confirm endorsement of $50,000 Bergen County Historic Preservation Trust Fund grant for James Rose Center improvements

The Village Council accepted the Bills, Claims, Vouchers and Statement of Funds as of April 30, 2025. It also approved the minutes from the March 26, April 1, 2, 9 and 23, 2025 meetings. The Council adopted several proclamations recognizing local organizations and events, including the Women Gardeners of Ridgewood and the James Rose Center. No other substantive actions were recorded.

• Accepted Bills, Claims, Vouchers and Statement of Funds as of April 30, 2025 (unanimous 5‑0)
• Approved minutes for March 26, April 1, 2, 9 and 23, 2025 (unanimous 5‑0)
• Adopted proclamation recognizing the 100th anniversary of the Women Gardeners of Ridgewood
• Adopted proclamation recognizing the opening day of the James Rose Center
• Adopted proclamation proclaiming May 18‑24, 2025 Emergency Medical Services Week
• Adopted proclamation proclaiming May 2025 National Military Appreciation Month
• Adopted proclamation proclaiming June as Pride Month
• Adopted proclamation proclaiming June 1, 2025 National Cancer Survivors’ Day

Village Council Meeting

This is a special public meeting of the Ridgewood Village Council. The agenda includes only procedural items: call to order, public comments, and discussions of the May 14 agenda and other village council business. No specific ordinances, resolutions, or contracts are listed for action.

• No specific items listed for decision; meeting is for discussion of agenda and other council business

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings regarding a new autobody shop development. The board will also discuss a variance extension for a property on S Hill Road and memorialize resolutions for three other addresses.

• LES DANN, LLC application for use variance, site plan approval, and bulk variances for a new autobody shop
• Variance approval extension request for Kantrowitz at 126 S Hill Road
• Resolution memorialization for 480 Beverly Road
• Resolution memorialization for 300 Godwin Avenue
• Resolution memorialization for 615 Witthill Road

The Board adopted the minutes from the April 28 and April 22 meetings. It voted to approve an extension of Julie Kantrowitz's variance approval until May 9, 2026. The hearing on LES DANN, LLC’s auto body shop application was continued to June 10, 2025. Three resolutions were memorialized for properties on Beverly Road, Godwin Avenue, and Witthill Road.

• Adopted minutes from April 28 and April 22
• Approved extension of Julie Kantrowitz variance to May 9, 2026
• Carried LES DANN, LLC auto body shop hearing to June 10, 2025
• Memorialized resolutions for 480 Beverly Road, 300 Godwin Avenue, and 615 Witthill Road

Shade Tree Commission

The Shade Tree Commission will hold a regular meeting to approve minutes, hear reports from co-chairs and council liaison, and discuss several ongoing initiatives. Key topics include an update on the village tree ordinance, progress on the 1000 Tree Initiative, a debrief of Daffodil Day, and potential changes to meeting format and outreach. Public comment will be taken before adjournment.

• Tree ordinance update (George)
• 1000 Tree Initiative update (Tim)
• Daffodil Day debrief (All)
• Discussion of virtual option for meetings (Andrew)
• Subcommittees update (George)

The commission approved the minutes from the April 2025 meeting. The tree ordinance was formally codified. The proposal to hold meetings virtually was deferred.

• Approved April 2025 meeting minutes (no vote recorded)
• Codified the tree ordinance (no vote recorded)
• Deferred the virtual meeting option (no vote recorded)

Ridgewood Arts Council

The Ridgewood Arts Council will discuss next year's planning and budget, including evaluating successes and shortcomings. They will also plan upcoming Pride Day and Art Beat events. The meeting includes updates on April events and the Ridgewood Guild Arts in the Park series.

• Pride Day planning for Saturday, June 7th
• Art Beat planning for Thursday, June 12th
• Next year planning and budget discussions
• Ridgewood Guild Arts in the Park - Summer Saturdays
• Ridgewood Arts Foundation updates

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will discuss the future of the bus station at Van Neste Square and review several applications for new signs and materials. Applicants include Tacoria (sign and awning at 65-67 East Ridgewood Avenue), Mahalo (new sign at 48 East Ridgewood Avenue), and Chase Bank (material review at 55 North Broad Street). The commission will also plan a fall talk at the James Rose Center and receive updates on Master Plan action items.

• Discussion re: Bus Station at Van Neste Square
• Tacoria, 65-67 East Ridgewood Avenue – sign and awning review
• Mahalo, 48 East Ridgewood Avenue – new sign review
• Chase Bank, 55 North Broad Street – review of materials
• Fall talk at James Rose Center (Oct 11 & 18)

The commission approved a sign change for Mahalo Holistic Beauty Bar at 48 E. Ridgewood Ave. It also approved the demolition ordinance unanimously. No other applications received final action; other items remain pending.

• Approved sign change for Mahalo Holistic Beauty Bar (48 E. Ridgewood Ave)
• Approved demolition ordinance unanimously

Central Business District Advisory Committee

The Central Business District Advisory Committee will meet to discuss parking utility operations with CFO Bob Rooney. The committee will review 2024 financial statements and parking revenue and expenses. The meeting includes scenario planning for parking pricing.

• Review of Parking Utility 2024 Financial Statements
• Discussion of parking expenses for Garage, ParkMobile, and Parking Enforcement Officers
• Review of revenue from hourly parking, annual permits, daily passes, and tickets
• Scenario planning for parking pricing
• Discussion of questions for ParkMobile

The committee approved the Central Business District Advisory Committee minutes from April 10, 2025. It decided not to adopt the $0.25 parking rate increase recommended by Walker Associates, noting a $57,000 surplus. No other formal approvals or denials were recorded; the meeting focused on data issues, technology upgrades, and outreach plans.

• Approved April 10, 2025 CBDAC meeting minutes
• Rejected $0.25 parking rate increase recommendation

Open Space Committee

The Ridgewood Open Space Committee will hear public comment, approve April meeting notes, and receive liaison reports. Main discussion items include the Open Space Tax Referendum (letter and program development), event proposals for 2025 Park Walks and stewardship, and updates on NJ Green Acres diversion, Schedler Park property, and the Town Garage. The committee will also consider a proposal from the NY/NJ Trail Conference.

• Discussion of Open Space Tax Referendum letter and program development
• Consideration of NY/NJ Trail Conference proposal
• Update on NJ Green Acres Diversion 2025
• Update on Schedler Park property
• Discussion of Town Garage update

The Open Space Committee approved the April meeting notes. The committee also agreed to follow the Village Council's lead on the Open Space Tax Referendum, awaiting the council's work session on May 28. No other formal actions were recorded during the meeting.

• Approved April meeting notes
• Agreed to follow Village Council on Open Space Tax Referendum

Village Council Meeting

The Ridgewood Village Council will hold a public workshop to discuss and potentially award several contracts, including a sole source SCADA system upgrade for PFAS water facilities, sodium hypochlorite for Graydon Pool, police ammunition, and an emergency mass notification system. They will also consider a Project Labor Agreement Ordinance, authorize change orders for the Kingsbridge Lane Pedestrian Bridge and other projects, and enter closed session for litigation on Valley Hospital's tax appeal and board appointments.

• Award sole source contract for SCADA system hardware/software upgrade at PFAS treatment facilities
• Award sole source contract for sodium hypochlorite solution for Graydon Pool
• Authorize change order for Kingsbridge Lane Pedestrian Bridge
• Resolution #24-164 to change contractor name for Bellair Pump Station Repairs
• Discussion of Project Labor Agreement Ordinance

The Ridgewood Village Council met for a regular public work session on May 7, 2025. The meeting included public comments about the Schedler property application, a Village Manager's report on training, a deer‑population study, and community event announcements. No votes, approvals, denials, or other formal actions were recorded.

Fields Committee

The Ridgewood Fields Committee is meeting on May 6, 2025, to discuss updates on the Schedler property, water main replacement on E. Glen Avenue, and progress on rewriting the fields policy. They will also review 2025 summer special events, including the Maroons Soccer Tournament from June 13-15, hear committee and member reports, and receive field project updates on Veteran's Field lighting and Benjamin Franklin Field renovation.

• Schedler Property update
• Water Main Replacement on E. Glen Avenue
• Fields Policy rewrite progress
• Lightning Detection System infograph
• 2025 Summer Special Events: Maroons Soccer Tournament June 13-15

The committee approved the minutes from the April 1, 2025 meeting. R. Brooks moved, R. Lynch seconded, and the minutes were approved by all members.

• Approved April 1, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Ridgewood Planning Board will discuss the Zoning Board of Adjustment's 2024 annual report, focusing on recommendations regarding front yard fences and billboard placement. They will also consider a minor site plan approval for a commercial building addition at 245 East Ridgewood Avenue, and adopt the minutes from the April 1, 2025 meeting. Public comments on non-pending topics will be taken at the start of the meeting.

• Discussion of Zoning Board recommendations on front yard fences and billboard placement
• Minor site plan approval for addition at 245 East Ridgewood Avenue (Block 3703, Lot 10, B-1 Zone)
• Adoption of memorializing resolution for Robert Erani application
• Public comments on topics not pending before the board
• Adoption of April 1, 2025 meeting minutes

The Planning Board adopted a memorializing resolution for a minor site‑plan addition at 245 East Ridgewood Avenue. The Board decided not to adopt any new front‑yard fence restrictions. The minutes from the April 1, 2025 meeting were approved after one correction.

• Memorialized resolution for minor site‑plan addition at 245 East Ridgewood Ave (adopted)
• Declined to amend front‑yard fence ordinance (no new restrictions adopted)
• Adopted April 1, 2025 meeting minutes after one correction

Green Ridgewood

The committee is reviewing Earth Day outcomes and coordinating sustainability projects with Ridgewood Schools. Members are discussing stormwater resilience, including a rain garden project with Parks and Rec, and a potential Saddle River clean-up on May 31.

• Rain Garden Project with Parks and Rec
• Saddle River Clean-Up with AmeriCorps on May 31
• Leaf Blowers Plan of Action for May 15
• Community Energy Planning Grant measurement
• Sustainability Day at Ridgewood Schools

Ridgewood's Access Committee

The Access Ridgewood Committee will meet to receive reports from the Executive Board, Village Council, and Village Departments. The agenda includes discussions regarding a Sensory Friendly Dinner and a SEPAG report.

• Sensory Friendly Dinner discussion
• SEPAG Report
• Health Department/Stigma Free report
• HILT report

The Access Committee approved the March meeting minutes. The Village Council approved a grant for the Habernickel playground and approved budget funding to remediate soil at Schedler. HILT reported receiving approval for a ROID grant. No other formal votes were recorded.

• Approved March meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Grant for Habernickel playground approved (reported by Village Council)
• Budget to remediate soil at Schedler approved (reported by Village Council)
• ROID grant approved for HILT programs

Community Center Advisory Board

The board is reviewing short-term and long-term strategic plans for the community center as challenged by the Mayor. Members are working to define the board's mission statement and assess community needs for senior center improvements.

• CCRF balance of $5,305.26
• Taub balance of $18,563
• Proposal for a Workshop Meeting on the Village Council Agenda for early May or June
• Qualitative comparison of senior centers
• Reports from Age-Friendly, CYC, and PRC

The advisory board unanimously approved the March 2025 meeting minutes. The board also scheduled its next meeting for May 22, 2025 at 5 p.m. No other substantive actions were decided at this session.

• Approved March minutes (all in favor)
• Scheduled next advisory board meeting for May 22 at 5 p.m.

Kasschau Memorial Shell Committee

The committee is reviewing the budget and the 2025 show schedule for June 5 through August 7. Members are discussing band contracts, scholarship applications, and upcoming fundraising events.

• 2025 show schedule: Tue/Thu June 5 - Aug 7, 8:00-10:00pm
• Steel Wheel fundraising event on Thursday, May 1
• Review of scholarship applications
• Band confirmation and contract updates
• Printing schedules and banners

Village Council Meeting

The Ridgewood Village Council holds a special public meeting with two public hearings on grant applications for field improvements at Citizens Park and restoration of the pedestrian tunnel at the train station. Following the hearings, the Council will vote on a consent agenda of eight resolutions, including authorization for the matching grants and several contracts.

• Public hearing on up to $121,775 Bergen County Open Space grant for field improvements at Citizens Park
• Public hearing on up to $541,880 Bergen County Historic Preservation grant for pedestrian tunnel restoration at the train station
• Award road resurfacing contract up to $1,800,000 to J.A. Alexander, Inc. for work on various Village streets
• Award horticultural supplies contract up to $52,200 to SiteOne Landscape Supply
• Award professional services contracts: geotechnical engineering at Schedler Property (up to $28,400) and grant paperwork for North Walnut parking lot cleanup (up to $5,000)

The Village Council voted 5‑0 to close the public hearing on the Bergen County Open Space Trust Fund grant for field improvements at Citizens Park. Mayor Vagianos confirmed that residents viewing the meeting remotely may call in to comment, and she will ensure future presentation fonts are large enough to read. No other substantive decisions on the grant were made.

• Closed public hearing on Citizens Park grant application (5-0)

Village Council Meeting

The Ridgewood Village Council holds a public workshop to discuss and potentially award multiple contracts for street resurfacing, horticultural supplies, geotechnical engineering, and other services. A special public meeting is also scheduled. The council will enter closed session to discuss potential litigation regarding Valley Hospital's tax appeal and West Glen Avenue sidewalks.

• Award contract for resurfacing of streets
• Award professional services contract for assistance in filing reimbursement paperwork for North Walnut Street parking lot cleanup
• Ridgewood Water refund of overpayment at 552 Cliff Street
• Authorize Change Order No. 2 for removal of abandoned underground storage tanks at North Walnut Street
• Closed session on potential litigation – Valley Hospital tax appeal/expedited tax sale and West Glen Avenue sidewalks

The Village Council held a regular public work session on April 23, 2025. Mayor Vagianos called the meeting to order and Village Manager Keith Kazmark gave a budget presentation explaining the impact of Valley Hospital’s move on property taxes. Council members and the public discussed the presentation, but no motions, votes, or approvals were recorded. The session concluded without any formal decisions.

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Ridgewood Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on several variance applications, including a new request by Benjamin Crook for a two-story addition, pool, and other improvements at 480 Beverly Road requiring multiple setback and height variances. The board will also continue hearings on a detached garage at 300 Godwin Avenue and a patio/pergola at 615 Witthill Road. Two previously decided applications (Briganti and Maxwell) are scheduled for resolution memorialization.

• Benjamin Crook – 480 Beverly Road: two-story addition, pool, cabana, hot tub; variances for height (33 ft vs 30 ft max), front yard setback (50.4 ft vs 55 ft), rear yard setback (26 ft vs 40 ft), pool deck setback (7.6 ft vs 10 ft), and pool in front yard (prohibited) – new application
• Jay Nipe – 300 Godwin Avenue: detached garage setback variance (5 ft from porte cochere vs 12 ft required) – continued from April 8
• Gabriel Rama & Katharine Offer – 615 Witthill Road: paver patio and pergola rear yard setback variance (5 ft vs 10 ft) – continued from April 8
• Justin & Gassia Fox – 325 Crest Road: rear/second-floor addition height (37 ft vs 30 ft) and building coverage variances – carried to May 27, 2025 (not heard tonight)
• Andrei Basov & Maria Kalinina – 3 Paul Court: tree house variance for size, setback, and height – carried to May 27, 2025 (not heard tonight)

The Board adopted the March 25, 2025 minutes and carried forward two pending applications to May 27. It approved the Benjamin Crook two‑story addition variance with a front‑yard setback condition of 52.5 ft and a side‑yard setback of 10 ft. It also approved the Jay Nipe garage variance and the Gabriel Rama & Katharine Offer patio/pergola variance, each by a 5‑yes to 1‑no vote.

• Adopted March 25, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Carried Fox, 325 Crest Road application to May 27, 2025 (no further notice)
• Carried Basov and Kalanina, 3 Paul Court application to May 27, 2025 (no further notice)
• Approved Benjamin Crook addition variance with front‑yard setback 52.5 ft and side‑yard setback 10 ft (5‑1 vote)
• Approved Jay Nipe detached garage variance (5‑1 vote)
• Approved Gabriel Rama & Katharine Offer patio/pergola variance (5‑1 vote)
• Memorialized resolution for Briganti, 144 Sheridan Terrace, Block 2106, Lot 3
• Memorialized resolution for Maxwell, 525 North Maple Avenue, Block 2904, Lot 16

Ridgewood Arts Council

The Ridgewood Arts Council will discuss upcoming events including an Artist Talk on April 24 and the Earth Day Daffodil Festival on April 27, along with planning for Pride Day on June 7. The council will also review its current account balance of $850 and receive updates from the Ridgewood Arts Foundation.

• Artist Talk on April 24 at 7pm in the Ridgewood Library Art Studio
• Earth Day Daffodil Festival on April 27 from 11am-4pm
• Pride Day on June 7 – discussion of council participation
• Budget review: RAC has $850 in the account

Citizens Safety Advisory Committee

The Ridgewood Citizens Safety Advisory Committee will receive updates on ongoing traffic and pedestrian safety issues, including W. Saddle River Rd, sight triangle obstructions, and W. Glen Ave sidewalks. New business includes discussion of Glen Avenue safety concerns, a safety campaign via the village website, and the status of road and crosswalk paint striping. The committee will also follow up on e-bike safety programs.

• W. Saddle River Rd traffic issues updates (Engineering/RPD)
• Sight Triangle Obstruction locations updates (Engineering)
• W. Glen Ave sidewalks updates (Engineering)
• Follow-up on safety programs for e-bike use (Prieto)
• Glen Avenue safety concerns discussion (Mortimer)

The committee decided not to install rumble strips on West Saddle River Road after a resident survey showed minimal support. A village ordinance addressing e‑bike and pedestrian safety was adopted. Plans for a West Glen sidewalk and a traffic‑light timing adjustment at East Glen and Maple Avenue were tabled. The request for additional street lights on Racetrack Road was deferred to the Borough of HohoKus.

• Village will not proceed with rumble strips on West Saddle River Rd
• Adopted village ordinance for e‑bike and pedestrian safety
• West Glen sidewalk construction plan tabled pending right‑of‑way issues
• Traffic‑light timing adjustment at East Glen & Maple Ave tabled pending county approval
• Racetrack Road street‑light request deferred; residents to contact Borough of HohoKus
• Thermoplastic stop signs to be installed on Laurel Rd

Stigma-Free Committee

The Ridgewood Stigma-Free Committee will discuss preparations for Mental Health Awareness Month, including a proclamation, social media campaign, and lawn signs. They will also plan for an exhibit at Ridgewood Pride on June 7. Reminders about upcoming free Mental Health First Aid training and a county symposium are noted.

• Free Mental Health First Aid Training on April 28
• Bergen County Stigma-Free Symposium on May 2
• Stigma-Free Campaign for Mental Health Awareness Month (taglines, press release, social media, proclamation, lawn signs, flag)
• Exhibit Opportunity at Ridgewood Pride – June 7, 2025

The Stigma-Free Committee noted Jan Bottcher's resignation and the abrupt termination of federal grant funding. Several program announcements and proposals were discussed, including upcoming events and a request to display a Stigma-Free flag. No motions were voted on, approved, denied, or formally tabled during the meeting.

Planning Board

The Planning Board public meeting and work session scheduled for April 15, 2025, has been canceled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for May 6, 2025.

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will review applications for exterior modifications to several commercial and residential properties. These include signage, facade changes, and home additions.

• Facade change at Sweet Kitchen, 90 E. Ridgewood Avenue
• Proposed awning at Tabboule Restaurant, 39 E. Ridgewood Avenue
• New signage at JNS Audio Video (41 E. Ridgewood Avenue) and Aura Head Spa (119 E. Ridgewood Avenue)
• New detached garage at Williams Residence, 300 Godwin Avenue
• House addition, renovation, garage demolition, and new garage/cabana at Keller Residence, 140 Cottage Place

The Historic Preservation Commission reviewed six applications and approved five of them. Sweet Kitchen’s façade change was approved with specific exceptions regarding the cornice, brick reuse, and sign replication. Tobboule Restaurant’s new awning was approved except for the silver strip, which the applicant will have removed. The commission also approved the JNS Audio sign, the Williams Residence garage, and the Keller Residence addition, noting that any front‑porch railing must be reviewed.

• Approved Sweet Kitchen façade change with listed exceptions
• Approved Tobboule Restaurant awning with exception to remove silver strip
• Approved JNS Audio sign as presented
• Approved Williams Residence new garage as submitted
• Approved Keller Residence addition as submitted (railing design to be reviewed)

Central Business District Advisory Committee

The Central Business District Advisory Committee will hear a presentation from the NJ Business Action Center on Transit Village Designation and Main Street application, review parking subcommittee recommendations for the Village Council, and discuss ongoing priorities including CBD marketing, beautification projects (bus station demolition, Franklin Street corridor, lighting), legislative initiatives (blade sign ordinance, zoning amendments, empty storefront ordinances), and the status of a proposed Costco in Paramus.

• Presentation by NJ Business Action Center on Transit Village Designation and Main Street application
• Parking subcommittee debrief and recommendations to Village Council – next steps
• CBD beautification updates: bus station demolition, Franklin Street corridor, and lighting
• Legislative initiatives: blade sign ordinance implementation, CBD zoning amendments, Building Department checklist, empty storefront ordinances
• Status of Paramus Costco at former Kmart site on Linwood Avenue

The Central Business District Advisory Committee approved the meeting minutes for January, February, and March 2025. It also approved the proposed new restaurant/sweet shop at 245 E. Ridgewood Ave, noting that a parking problem is still being worked out. No other formal actions were taken at this meeting.

• Approved meeting minutes for Jan–Mar 2025
• Approved new restaurant/sweet shop at 245 E. Ridgewood Ave (parking issue pending)

Open Space Committee

The Open Space Committee will meet to review the Open Space Tax Referendum and receive updates on the NJ Green Acres Diversion 2025. Members will also discuss the Schedler Park property and the Town Garage. The meeting includes planning for April stewardship events and a proposal from the NY/NJ Trail Conference.

• Open Space Tax Referendum letter
• NJ Green Acres Diversion 2025 progress update
• Schedler Park property update
• Town Garage discussion
• NY/NJ Trail Conference proposal

The committee approved the March meeting minutes (with name spelling corrections). It assigned Frank Mortimer to lead communication with the Village Council on the Town Garage cleanup and agreed the OSC will sponsor a community event to gather input on the property’s future. The committee also confirmed it will run 2025 Park Walks, with Jim Van Goor working with Alex Pastore on the Pleasant Park Walk and using the same presenter as last year. An OSC booth will be present at the upcoming Daffodil Festival and Earth Day Fair.

• Approved March meeting notes (spelling corrections)
• Assigned Frank Mortimer to communicate OSC wishes to the Village Council on the Town Garage property
• Agreed OSC will sponsor a community event to discuss the Town Garage property after cleanup
• Confirmed OSC will sponsor 2025 Park Walks, using the same presenter as last year
• Assigned Jim Van Goor to work with Alex Pastore on the Pleasant Park Walk
• Decided OSC will have a booth at the Daffodil Festival and Earth Day Fair
• Scheduled a one‑day volunteer rain‑garden planting on May 3
• Designated Frank Mortimer to lead the Open Space Tax Referendum effort with the Village Council

Green Ridgewood

The Green Ridgewood committee is meeting to discuss and strategize on several environmental initiatives. Key topics include a plan of action for leaf blowers, preparations for the Daffodil Festival/Earth Day Fair on April 27, and updates on resilience and stormwater management activities.

• Leaf Blowers – Plan of Action (Resource Management & Conservation Subcommittee)
• Daffodil Festival/Earth Day Fair planning for April 27
• Resilience, Flooding, Stormwater Subcommittee activities including rain gardens and meeting with Assembly members
• Community Energy Planning Grant/Measurement update
• Sustainable New Jersey Conference attendance (May 9)

The council passed several ordinances, including a $4.9 million bond for water‑utility capital upgrades, new 2025 water rates, and a wildlife‑feeding prohibition on private property. Additional measures approved were a tree‑protection ordinance, a ban on skateboards and micro‑mobility devices in the CBD, $108 000 for storm‑water repairs, and $165 000 for residential tree planting. The board also unanimously authorized up to $3 000 to restore two rain gardens.

• Approved $4.9M bond for water utility capital improvements
• Approved ordinance setting 2025 water rates and requiring proof of lead or galvanized line replacement
• Approved wildlife‑feeding prohibition ordinance expanded to private property
• Approved tree‑protection ordinance (third adoption)
• Approved ban on skateboards, scooters, and micro‑mobility vehicles in the CBD
• Approved $165,000 for residential tree planting and $51,000 annual artificial‑turf replacement fund in omnibus bond ordinance
• Appropriated $108,000 for storm‑water system repair
• Unanimously authorized up to $3,000 to fund restoration of Habernickel and Graydon rain gardens

Shade Tree Commission

The Ridgewood Shade Tree Commission will hold its regular meeting to approve minutes from March 18 and receive reports on tree-related initiatives. Key updates include preparations for Daffodil Day, progress on the Sapling Sanctuary, and an ordinance update. The commission will also consider a virtual meeting option and a social media strategy.

• Daffodil Day preparations and expectations
• Sapling Sanctuary update
• Ordinance update regarding tree regulations
• Discussion of virtual option for future meetings
• Social media strategy (Medhi Manni)

The Shade Tree Commission approved the March 2025 meeting minutes. The Village Tree Ordinance completed its second reading and is now official, pending any concerns. New committee members were announced and future projects such as virtual meeting access and additional tree plantings were discussed.

• Approved March 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Village Tree Ordinance completed second reading and became official
• Announced new committee members: Andrew Gorman (citizen) and Julia Buckley (Parks & Recreation)
• Discussed investigating a virtual‑only meeting option for sick or away members
• Social‑media pages for the commission launched on Facebook and Instagram
• Planned planting of numerous trees at Shedler, including removal of berm for a living barrier
• Prepared Sapling Sanctuary presentation for Village Council (2026‑2027 implementation)
• Adopt a Sapling program in Willard District assigned to Brooke Barr for outreach

Village Council Meeting

The Ridgewood Village Council will hold a regular public meeting to introduce the 2025 budget, adopt resolutions increasing deferred school taxes and approving a 3.5% budget increase, and conduct public hearings on water utility ordinances and capital projects. The meeting will also include swearing-in ceremonies for new police sergeants and recognition of police department awards.

• 2025 budget introduction with 3.5% increase to $1,708,809.95
• Resolution 25-185: Increase deferred school taxes by $1,494,430 to $53,918,607
• Resolution 25-186: Approve 2025 municipal budget and set May 14 public hearing
• Ordinance 4039: $4.99M water utility capital bond
• Ordinance 4037: Establish 2025 Ridgewood water rates and PFAS treatment charges

The council voted to accept the Bills, Claims, Vouchers, and Statement of Funds as of March 31, 2025. They also approved the minutes from seven prior meetings dating February through March 2025. Both actions passed with unanimous support.

• Accepted Bills, Claims, Vouchers, and Statement of Funds as of March 31, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved minutes for Feb 3, Feb 10, Feb 19, Feb 26, Feb 27, Mar 5, and Mar 12, 2025 (5-0)

Village Council Meeting

This is a special public meeting of the Ridgewood Village Council with no specific substantive items listed on the agenda. The meeting includes public comments and discussion of the April 9, 2025 agenda and other village council business. The agenda is entirely procedural.

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Ridgewood Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on four variance applications for residential properties. Applicants seek relief from height, setback, coverage, and bulk limits for additions, a tree house, and garage conversions. The board will also approve minutes from March 11, 2025, and memorialize resolutions for three previously decided cases.

• Ryan & Tara Briganti seek variances for a front porch and attic dormers at 144 Sheridan Terrace (height, lot coverage, setbacks).
• Andrei Basov & Maria Kalinina request approval to keep a tree house at 3 Paul Court that exceeds size, setback, and height limits.
• Harold & Elizabeth Maxwell propose converting a garage to a family room and building a new detached garage at 525 North Maple Avenue (rear yard, front setback variances).
• Kenneth & Patricia Leung require eight variances for a one-story addition, attached garage, pool cabana, new pool, and sports court at 256 Ivy Place.
• Resolutions will be memorialized for properties at 234 Fairmount Road, 385 Goffle Road, and 225 Lockwood Road.

The Zoning Board approved the application to convert an existing garage to a family room, raise the roof, and add a new detached garage at 525 North Maple Avenue. The Board also approved the Ryan & Tara Briganti porch and dormer variance with a deed restriction. Two other applications were carried to future dates without a decision.

• Approved Ryan & Tara Briganti front porch and attic dormer variance (motion approved)
• Approved Harold & Elizabeth Maxwell garage conversion, roof raise, and new detached garage (motion approved)
• Carried Andrei Basov treehouse variance application to April 22, 2025 (no decision)
• Carried Kenneth & Patricia Leung pool and addition application to May 27, 2025 (no decision)

Village Council Meeting

The Ridgewood Village Council will hold a public workshop to discuss and potentially award several contracts for wastewater equipment, tree irrigation, and software, as well as authorize grant applications for field improvements at Citizens Park and restoration of the train station pedestrian tunnel. A presentation from Ridgewood High School students on a proposed environmental project at Veterans Field is also scheduled. The meeting will close with a closed session for personnel interviews and appointments.

• Award contract for tree irrigation
• Award contract for Spatial Data Logic Software under state contract
• Award multiple contracts under North Jersey Wastewater Cooperative Pricing System for digester gas safety equipment, roof swivel connections, sludge pumps, and a submersible trash pump
• Authorize application for Bergen County Open Space Grant for field improvements at Citizens Park
• Authorize application for Bergen County Historic Preservation Trust Fund Grant for restoration of pedestrian tunnel at train station

The Village Council adopted a proclamation recognizing Francesca Gusfa as the 2025 New Jersey State Girls Wrestling Champion in the 100‑pound class. No other substantive actions, approvals, or votes were recorded during the meeting.

• Adopted proclamation honoring Francesca Gusfa, 2025 state wrestling champion

Fields Committee

The Ridgewood Fields Committee will consider a rewrite of the Fields Policy, receive updates on the water main replacement on E. Glen Avenue, and review several field projects including a lighting upgrade at Veterans Field and renovations at Benjamin Franklin Field. The agenda also includes public comment, approval of March 4 minutes, and reports from sports groups.

• Fields Policy rewrite
• Water main replacement on E. Glen Avenue update
• Lighting upgrade at Veterans Field
• Benjamin Franklin Field renovation
• Pleasant Park/Hawes Field update

The committee voted to approve the minutes from the February 4, 2025 meeting, with all members in favor. No other substantive actions or approvals were recorded during the April 1 session.

• Approved February 4, 2025 minutes (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Ridgewood Planning Board will hold its reorganization meeting, including the swearing-in of new Class IV member Reese Campbell and the appointment of The Mecca Law Firm as legal counsel. The board will hear a minor site plan application by Robert Erani for a rear addition to the existing commercial building at 245 East Ridgewood Avenue in the B1 zone. An executive session on pending or anticipated litigation is also scheduled, along with adoption of prior meeting minutes.

• Oath of office for new Class IV member Reese Campbell
• Appointment of The Mecca Law Firm as Planning Board legal counsel
• Public comments on topics not pending before the board
• Minor site plan application by Robert Erani for addition at 245 East Ridgewood Avenue (Block 3703, Lot 10, B1 Zone)
• Executive session on pending or anticipated litigation

The Board adopted a resolution appointing the Mecca Law Firm as its legal counsel. It approved a Minor Site Plan for an addition to the restaurant at 245 East Ridgewood Avenue. The minutes from the January 21 and February 18, 2025 meetings were also approved.

• Appointed Mecca Law Firm as legal counsel for the Planning Board
• Approved Minor Site Plan application for addition at 245 East Ridgewood Ave (B1 zone)
• Approved minutes from January 21, 2025 and February 18, 2025

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council is holding a special public budget meeting. The body will conduct a final budget review and determine the tax rate.

• Final Budget Review
• Setting of Tax Rate

The council set a 3.14% property tax increase for 2025 after reviewing the final budget. Operating budget requests were cut by $1,989,415.92 and $2,445,834.50 was re‑allocated from grant and trust funds. Multiple department expenses were reduced, including police salaries, other expenses, and interest on notes. Grant funding freezes were noted as a pending issue.

• Reduced operating budget requests by $1,989,415.92
• Re‑allocated $2,445,834.50 from grant monies and trust funds
• Cut $70,000 from Police salaries and wages
• Cut $100,600 from Police other expenses
• Reduced $75,000 from Village Council other expenses (consultant)
• Applied $131,576 in grant funds to offset Recycling salaries and wages
• Reduced interest on notes by $718,000 and bond payments by $250,000
• Approved a 3.14% property tax rate increase for 2025

Community Center Advisory Board

The board will discuss forming task forces to examine the Community Center's mission and benchmark centers, as requested by the mayor. They will also plan a workshop for the Village Council agenda in early May. A new treasurer is needed, and reports from various committees will be given.

• Temporary hold on solicitation letter due to new Village Council focus
• Formation of task forces for mission statement and benchmark centers
• Workshop meeting on Village Council agenda scheduled for early May
• New treasurer needed
• First Luncheon Series event planned for April 22

The advisory board unanimously approved the February meeting minutes. The board tabled the vote on renewing the GoDaddy and 4 a Good Cause website subscriptions until the next meeting. It also decided not to isolate senior‑center costs at this point and to consider proposals beyond the current community‑center space.

• Approved February minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled decision on renewing GoDaddy and 4 a Good Cause website subscriptions
• Decided not to isolate senior‑center costs at this time
• Decided not to limit senior‑center proposal to current community‑center space

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council holds a public workshop to discuss budget items, including a change order for the Special Improvement District feasibility study, endorsement of a HOME Investment Partnerships application for Bellagio Property Management at Hudson Hill, and acceptance of a donation for a community orchard. A special public meeting is convened for an attached agenda, then the workshop resumes with discussions on Ridgewood Water contracts, North Walnut Street parking lot restoration, and numerous contract awards for insecticide injection, yard waste disposal, basic life support billing, SCADA system updates, a police interview room camera system, and more. Policy endorsements and tax property actions are also on the agenda.

• Award emergency contract for repacking and restoration of air stripping tower at Wortendyke Water Treatment Facility
• Award contract under state contract for camera system for Police Detective Bureau interview room
• Authorize change order for consultant for Special Improvement District Phase 2 Feasibility Study
• Endorse Bergen County HOME Investment Partnerships Application for Bellagio Property Management at Hudson Hill
• Authorize cancellation and refund of real estate property taxes on Block 1411, Lot 13

The Village Council held a regular public work session on March 26, 2025. Council members received reports on the demolition of the historic bus station structure and plans for a temporary shelter relocation. Updates were also given on new field lighting at Veterans Field, flood‑mitigation funding discussions, and upcoming community events. No formal motions, approvals, or votes were recorded during the meeting.

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will adopt three resolutions by consent agenda: authorizing a $2,000 change order for a Special Improvement District feasibility study, endorsing a $669,000 HOME Investment Partnership application for a group home at Hudson Hill, and accepting a donation of a Community Fruit and Nut Orchard at Habernickel Family Park.

• Authorize $2,000 change order to Economic Development Strategists, LLC for a Special Improvement District feasibility study (Resolution 25-180)
• Confirm endorsement of $669,000 HOME Investment Partnership funding for Hudson Hill group home by Bellagio Property Management, LLC (Resolution 25-181)
• Accept donation of a Community Fruit and Nut Orchard at Habernickel Family Park from HealthBarn USA (Resolution 25-182)

The council approved resolutions numbered 25-180 through 25-182 by a consent agenda, with a single vote by the Village Council. A motion to adjourn the special public meeting was carried unanimously by voice vote. No other actions were taken.

• Adopted resolutions 25-180–25-182 (consent agenda, single council vote)
• Adjourned special public meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Residential Flood Advisory Committee

The Residential Flood Advisory Committee will hear a briefing from the US Army Corps of Engineers on an update or study authorization related to flooding. The committee will also discuss the 2025 capital budget and open capital projects, as well as spring educational outreach on flooding. The meeting includes a public comment period.

• Briefing by US Army Corps of Engineers on Update/Study Authorization
• Discussion of 2025 Capital Budget and Open Capital
• Spring Educational Outreach on flooding
• Setting meeting dates for 2025
• Public comment period (3 minutes per speaker)

Parks, Recreation & Conservation Board

The Parks, Recreation and Conservation Board will hold a reorganization meeting and hear a presentation on a proposed fee schedule for recreational facilities. The board will also receive updates on park projects including Habernickel Park pavilion, Veterans Memorial Park lighting, and South Pleasant Park Hawes Field renovation, as well as rain garden projects and Graydon Pool preparations. Public comment is limited to three minutes per person.

• Proposed fee schedule for recreational facilities
• Habernickel Park – Pavilion update
• Veterans Memorial Park – lighting upgrade
• South Pleasant Park – Hawes Field renovation
• Rain garden projects at Habernickel Park, Graydon Pool, Maple Park, and Veterans Field

The Parks, Recreation & Conservation Board approved the February 2025 meeting minutes with all members in favor. The proposed fee schedule presentation was postponed and will be considered next month. No other motions were voted on during the meeting.

• Approved February 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Tabled proposed fee schedule (postponed to next month)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on four applications seeking variances for residential additions and modifications. Each applicant requests relief from zoning bulk requirements such as height, coverage, and setbacks. The board will also memorialize a prior resolution for a separate property.

• Justin & Gassia Fox seek variances for height (37 ft vs. 30 ft allowed) and building area at 325 Crest Road.
• Evan & Sheila Steinberg request variances for coverage and building area at 234 Fairmount Road.
• 385 Realty, LLC seeks a front-yard setback variance at 385 Goffle Road.
• Dina & Tambi Kat request multiple setback and coverage variances at 225 Lockwood Road.
• Resolution memorialization for 55 North Broad LLC (Block 3804, Lot 2.01).

The Zoning Board of Adjustment adopted the minutes from February 11 and February 25, 2025. It approved the Steinberg one‑story addition with conditions, approved the 385 Realty front and rear entry additions and dormers with a 5‑yes‑vote tally (two members abstained), and approved the Dina & Tambi Kat two‑story addition and porches with a condition on porch width.

• Approved Steinberg one‑story addition with conditions (motion passed)
• Approved 385 Realty front/rear entry additions and dormers (5 yes votes, 2 abstentions)
• Approved Dina & Tambi Kat two‑story addition and porches with porch width condition (motion passed)
• Adopted minutes from February 11, 2025 and February 25, 2025
• Memorialized resolution for 55 North Broad LLC, Block 3804, Lot 2.01

Ridgewood's Access Committee

This meeting is largely procedural, covering approval of prior minutes, reports from executive board and village council, and updates on upcoming events. The only specific non-routine items are plans for a sensory friendly dinner and playground updates.

• Approval of February meeting minutes
• Discussion of Sensory Friendly Dinner organized by Jaimie Davis
• Playground updates
• Reports from Health Department (Stigma Free) and HILT

The Access Committee approved the minutes from the February meeting after a motion by Ashley and a second by Surbhi, which passed. No other formal actions or votes were recorded; the rest of the meeting consisted of reports and discussion of upcoming programs and events.

• Approved February meeting minutes (motion passed)

Citizens Safety Advisory Committee

The committee will receive updates on traffic and sidewalk projects from the Engineering department and Ridgewood Police Department. Members will also discuss safety regarding eBikes.

• W. Saddle River Rd traffic polling update
• Sight Triangle Obstruction Locations updates
• W. Glen Ave sidewalks meeting updates
• Intersection of E. Glen and Oak survey update
• Pedestrian safety review for Race Track Rd area

The committee approved the replacement of a missing pedestrian crosswalk sign on North Monroe Street and RPD will increase speed enforcement there. Engineering will replace the sign soon, send rumble‑strip surveys, and submit a sidewalk concept plan for W. Glen Ave. The chair will contact EZ Ride NJ about e‑bike safety and RPD will work on a traffic‑study brochure. The next CSAC meeting is set for April 17, 2025.

• Replace missing pedestrian crosswalk sign on North Monroe Street (planned)
• Increase speed enforcement on North Monroe Street (planned)
• Send rumble‑strip surveys to West Saddle Road residents (planned)
• Submit sidewalk concept plan for north side of W. Glen Ave to DEP (planned)
• Councilman Mortimer to discuss drop‑off/pick‑up process with school administrators (planned)
• Chairperson Prieto to contact EZ Ride NJ for e‑bike safety program (planned)
• RPD to contact village communications about traffic‑study brochure (planned)
• Next CSAC meeting scheduled for April 17, 2025 (planned)

Stigma-Free Committee

The Ridgewood Stigma-Free Committee will discuss updates on the stigma-free logo and campaign for Mental Health Awareness Month, including a press release, lawn signs, social media, and a proclamation. A partnership with the Ridgewood Library, West Bergen Mental Healthcare, and Lukin Center for a fall event series is pushed to 2025. The committee also acknowledges the Mayor's Wellness Campaign and reminders for the county sticker contest and symposium.

• Discussion of stigma-free campaign for Mental Health Awareness Month (press release, lawn signs, social media, proclamation)
• Partnership with Ridgewood Library, West Bergen Mental Healthcare, and Lukin Center deferred to Fall 2025
• Reminder: Annual Stigma-Free Sticker Contest ends March 28 (Bergen County initiative)
• Reminder: Bergen County Stigma-Free Symposium on May 2
• Next meeting: April 15 at 3 PM via Zoom

The committee celebrated Ridgewood's 2024 "Healthy Town" designation from the NJ Health Quality Institute's Mayors Wellness Campaign. Members discussed plans to ramp up Stigma-Free messaging during Mental Health Awareness Month in May, including placing 15-20 lawn signs around town and increasing social media posts. The committee also discussed using opioid settlement funds for substance abuse programming and scheduled two mental health film events for fall 2025.

• Received 2024 Healthy Town designation from Mayors Wellness Campaign
• Requested 15-20 lawn signs from county for May Stigma-Free campaign
• Planned weekly Stigma-Free messages via Village E-News, Facebook, Instagram for May
• Scheduled RACE to Be Human and Upstanders film events for fall 2025
• Coordinating meeting with Superintendent, Chiefs, CFO, Village Manager on opioid settlement funds

Planning Board

The Ridgewood Planning Board public meeting and work session scheduled for March 18, 2025, has been canceled. The next regular meeting is set for April 1, 2025.

Open Space Committee

The Ridgewood Open Space Committee will hold a regular meeting, discussing the execution of a tax referendum, including funding priorities and advocacy. They will also review park stewardship initiatives, such as the Daffodil/Earth Day event, NYNJ Trail Center project, and the volunteer stewardship program. The committee will accept a resignation and receive liaison reports from other village boards.

• Resignation of committee member Alex Pastore
• Discussion on tax referendum execution: funding advocacy and use of funds
• Daffodil/Earth Day event scheduled for April 26th
• NYNJ Trail Center project: trail maintenance, volunteer leaders, signage
• Stewardship program: volunteers/sponsors, trail improvements including blazing trails and invasive plants

Shade Tree Commission

The Shade Tree Commission will meet to review updates from the Planning Board and council liaison. The body will discuss the 2025 Adopt-a-Sapling ordering plan and a sapling sanctuary.

• Adopt-a-Sapling ordering plan for 2025
• Sapling sanctuary discussion
• Planning Board update
• Super Science Saturday

The Shade Tree Commission unanimously voted to forward a recommendation to the Village Council to establish a Sapling Sanctuary near the tennis courts on Bellair Road, with an estimated cost of about $20,000. The sanctuary would hold about 100 saplings to support the Adopt a Sapling program. The commission also approved minutes from November and January, and discussed other updates including the Adopt a Sapling event, Science Fair booth, and a $2,500 donation from HealthBarn USA for ten trees.

• Approved minutes from November and January meetings
• Voted unanimously to forward Sapling Sanctuary recommendation to Village Council (estimated $20,000)
• Scheduled Adopt a Sapling promotion at Willard School on April 28
• Scheduled Daffodil Day for April 27 with Red Buds and Dogwoods secured by Parks Department
• Noted HealthBarn USA donation of $2,500 for ten trees at Habernickel Park

Central Business District Advisory Committee

The Central Business District Advisory Committee will review updates on the Franklin Street Corridor and the bus station demolition project. The body will also discuss the status of the blade sign ordinance and empty storefront ordinances.

• Review of CBD vacancies tally document
• Discussion of parking recommendations
• Status update on bus station demolition project
• Implementation status of blade sign ordinance and CBD zoning amendment
• Status of Paramus Costco at Kmart site on Linwood Avenue

The Central Business District Advisory Committee met via Zoom and discussed several Village Council actions, including an introduced ordinance to prohibit micromobility vehicles in the CBD, an ordinance for food vendor licenses ($50/day or $150/year), and a passed ordinance reserving parking for Pease Library tenants. The committee also discussed parking rates and a possible validation program, but took no formal votes or decisions.

• Approved circulating CBDAC membership list with emails and phone numbers (no objections)
• Discussed Council-introduced ordinance to ban micromobility vehicles in CBD (no action)
• Discussed Council-introduced food vendor license ordinance ($50/day, $150/year) (no action)
• Noted Council-passed ordinance reserving parking on Library Place and Corsa Terrace for Pease Library tenants
• Noted Council-passed change order for additional costs at N. Walnut parking lot due to underground storage tanks

Open Space Committee

The committee will discuss updates on NJ Green Acres diversion and the 2025 plan, an update on Schedler Park property, and a discussion on the Town Garage. New business includes a potential open space tax referendum. The committee will also consider event suggestions for 2025 Park Walks and an Earth Day event.

• Discussion of NJ Green Acres diversion and 2025 plan
• Update on Schedler Park property
• Discussion of Town Garage
• New business: Open Space Tax Referendum
• Potential 2025 Park Walks and Earth Day event on April 27

The Open Space Committee discussed adding a tax assessment increase to the November ballot and received tentative approval for a NY/NJ Trail Conference proposal, though neither was finalized. The committee also approved February meeting notes and noted progress on the Green Acres diversion and Hawes Field opening.

• Approved February meeting notes with addition of Ralph Currey as present
• Discussed raising Open Space assessment from 0.5 to 1 cent per $100 evaluation for November ballot (not finalized)
• Received tentative approval for NY/NJ Trail Conference proposal, budget allocation still needed
• Agreed to sponsor community event for Town Garage future use
• Agreed to have booth at Daffodil Festival and Earth Day Fair with suggestion box

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will vote on a consent agenda with resolutions authorizing temporary capital budgets and awarding contracts for water infrastructure, leak detection, HVAC maintenance, and PFAS treatment facility construction. New ordinances are introduced including a 9% water rate increase, rules for lead service line replacement, a ban on unconfined wildlife feeding, a new tree protection chapter, and regulation of skateboards and micromobility in the Central Business District. Public hearings will be held on road paving, parking changes, and sewer discharge fees.

• Introduction of ordinance 4037: 9% water rate increase for 2025, plus quarterly PFAS treatment charge
• Two bond ordinances: $4,992,000 for Water Utility Capital and $4,092,190 for General Capital projects
• Ordinance 4042 prohibits unconfined wildlife feeding; allows bird feeders with restrictions
• Ordinance 4043 replaces entire Chapter 260 on tree protection, removal, and replacement
• Public hearing on ordinance 4034: $2,765,550 bond for road paving and sanitation trucks

The Ridgewood Village Council introduced several ordinances on first reading, including establishing 2025 water rates, a PFAS treatment charge, and bond ordinances for water utility and general capital improvements. It also adopted ordinances on second reading for SCADA upgrades, Berkshire Road as a through street, parking regulations, and significant sewer discharger fees. A bond ordinance for road paving and a sanitation truck was tabled due to lack of a fourth vote, and a resolution for the truck purchase was carried to the next meeting.

• Introduced Ordinance #4037 establishing 2025 water rates, facilities charge, and PFAS treatment charge (3-0)
• Introduced Ordinance #4039 bond ordinance for water utility improvements, appropriating $4,992,000 (3-0)
• Adopted Ordinance #4032 appropriating $350,000 for SCADA and security upgrades (3-0)
• Adopted Ordinance #4033 establishing Berkshire Road as a through street with stop signs (3-0)
• Adopted Ordinance #4035 amending parking regulations on Library Place, Corsa Terrace, and Pease Building lot (3-0)
• Adopted Ordinance #4036 establishing 2025 significant sewer discharger fees (3-0)
• Tabled Ordinance #4034 bond ordinance for road paving and sanitation truck until April 9, 2025 (3-0)
• Adopted Resolution #25-179 supporting legislation for legal notices on government websites (2-1)

Village Council Meeting

The agenda for this special public meeting consists of procedural items and general discussion. No specific ordinances, contracts, or resolutions are listed for decision.

Kasschau Memorial Shell Committee

The committee is reviewing the 2025 budget for the summer concert series (June 5–Aug 7), confirming band contracts, and deciding on remaining dates. They will also discuss a fundraising event with Steel Wheel, set scholarship committee members, and plan promotional materials.

• Budget review and 2025 schedule for concerts (Tue/Thu, June 5–Aug 7, 8–10pm)
• Band lineup confirmation and contract status update
• Fundraising event with Steel Wheel, proposed dates April 24 or May 1
• Scholarship committee members to be confirmed for spring application reading
• Promotion planning including website, social media, schedules, and banners

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will hear continued and new applications for variances and site plan approvals. The main item is a continued application for a new Chase Bank with a drive-through at 55 North Broad Street, requiring use and bulk variances. New applications include a residential addition at 199 Spencer Place with setback and coverage variances. The board will also memorialize resolutions for four prior cases and discuss its annual report.

• 55 North Broad Street: Continued application for a Chase Bank with drive-through, requiring use and site plan approval and bulk variances
• 325 Crest Road: Continued application for a rear/second-floor addition exceeding height and coverage limits (carried to March 25)
• 199 Spencer Place: New application for front and rear additions with front yard setback and coverage variances
• Resolution memorialization for four cases: Cohen (72 Ridge Rd), Scoccimarro (225 N Monroe St), Jackson (396 Godwin Ave), Pilchik (309 Windsor Terrace)
• Discussion of Zoning Board of Adjustment Annual Report

The Ridgewood Zoning Board of Adjustment approved a use variance, site plan, and bulk variances for a new one-story Chase Bank with a drive-through at 55 North Broad Street, replacing an existing two-story structure. The approval was granted 5-2 with conditions including removal of a proposed pylon sign, restricting left turns out of the drive-thru, and a six-month traffic review. The board also approved a home addition project at 199 Spencer Place with conditions that the first floor match the second floor and windows align.

• Approved 55 North Broad LLC application for Chase Bank with drive-through, 5-2, with conditions including pylon sign removal and six-month traffic review
• Approved Kevin & Colleen St. John application for additions at 199 Spencer Place, conditioned on first floor matching second floor and window alignment
• Memorialized resolutions for Scoccimarro (225 North Monroe St), Jackson (396 Godwin Ave), and Pilchik (309 Windsor Terrace)
• Carried Fox application (325 Crest Road) to March 25, 2025

Ridgewood Arts Council

The Ridgewood Arts Council is meeting with a rolling agenda covering upcoming events, grant updates, and finances. They will finalize logistics for Children in the Arts (March 30), plan the Artist Talk (April 24), and coordinate participation in Earth Day (April 27) and Pride Day (June 7). The council also notes a budget balance of $850 and reviews reimbursements and foundation updates.

• Children in the Arts event logistics and marketing for March 30
• Artist Talk scheduled for April 24: flyer, moderator, marketing
• Earth Day (April 27) and Pride Day (June 7) participation planning
• Grants update via NJ State Council on the Arts link
• Budget: $850 remaining in account

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will meet to adopt February minutes and review five applications for changes to historic properties, including building materials, signs, revised drawings, and façade alterations. The meeting is procedural with no decisions scheduled beyond minutes adoption.

• Review of building materials for 55 North Broad LLC (Chase Bank)
• Sign application for Eleven Oak Home at 11 Oak Street
• Sign application for Done Neatly at 158 E. Ridgewood Avenue
• Revised drawings for Fox Residence at 325 Crest Road
• Façade change for Sweet Kitchen at 90 E. Ridgewood Avenue

The Historic Preservation Commission approved revised building materials for 55 North Broad (Chase Bank), subject to changes like warmer brick and stone colors, and approved signs for 11 Oak Street and 158 E. Ridgewood Ave. It also approved revised drawings for 325 Crest Road, tabled a façade change for 90 E. Ridgewood Ave. pending alternatives, and approved new regulations requiring HPC review of residential demolitions.

• Approved revised plans for 55 North Broad (Chase Bank) with conditions: warmer brick color, warmer base stone, lower brick inlay, and brick (not stucco) on 65 N. Broad Street's north façade, subject to HPC review.
• Approved the sign plan for 11 Oak Street (Eleven Oak Home) as submitted, with a suggestion for larger lettering to be revised and approved by HPC.
• Approved the sign plan for 158 E. Ridgewood Ave. (Done Neatly) as submitted.
• Approved revised drawings for 325 Crest Road (Fox Residence) as submitted.
• Discussed the façade change for 90 E. Ridgewood Ave. (Sweet Kitchen); requested alternatives for east façade details and will research window placement near a fire escape; applicant to return in April.
• Approved minutes from the February 10, 2025 meeting.
• Approved proposed regulations requiring HPC review of any demolition in a residential district.

Green Ridgewood

The committee will review updates on the Community Energy Planning Grant and plan for the April 27 Daffodil Festival/Earth Day Fair. Members will also discuss goals and strategies regarding leaf blowers and stormwater resilience.

• Planning for April 27 Daffodil Festival/Earth Day Fair
• Leaf blower goals and strategy meeting with Parks Department
• Community Energy Planning Grant/Measurement update
• Resilience, Flooding, and Stormwater activities including Rutgers MS-4
• Communications subcommittee update on new website

Green Ridgewood unanimously approved spending up to $500 for Earth Day fair items and up to $900 for merging its website with 1,000 Acres. The group also discussed the upcoming tree protection ordinance, which was revised and will be reintroduced on March 12, and noted the Village received a $10,000 energy planning grant. No other formal votes were taken.

• Approved up to $500 for Earth Day fair items (unanimous)
• Approved up to $900 for website merger with 1,000 Acres (unanimous)
• Approved February 6 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will review a report on Schedler property testing and discuss lead service line replacements. The body is considering several contract awards for police and fire equipment, as well as updates to village ordinances regarding fees, trees, and micro-mobility devices.

• Contracts for SCADA system upgrades, Fire Department SCBA, and police and health department vehicle leasing
• Professional services contracts for Schedler Property SHPO application and sewer lateral construction
• Proposed amendments to Chapter 145 and 156 regarding Health Department fees for temporary events
• Proposed amendments to Chapter 260 (Tree Protection) and Chapter 241 (Skateboards, Scooters, and Micro-Mobility)
• Application for Bergen County Municipal Alliance Grant funding

The Village Council received a report from Matrix New World Engineering on soil testing at the Schedler property. The report identified three grids (16, 18, 26) as fully delineated and recommended their excavation, while eight other grids need further investigation. The Village Manager recommended appropriating $1.5 million in the 2025 Capital Budget for remediation, and Matrix anticipates the work could occur in summer 2025. No formal votes were taken on these items during this work session.

• Heard a report on Schedler property soil testing, which found contamination in three fully delineated grids (16, 18, 26) and recommended their excavation.
• Discussed a recommendation to appropriate $1.5 million in the 2025 Capital Budget for Schedler property remediation.
• Discussed a recommendation to award a sole source contract to Emerson Process Management for SCADA system upgrades, not to exceed $25,803.80.
• Discussed a recommendation to award a contract to New Jersey Fire Equipment for new SCBAs, not to exceed $344,991.29, funded partly by a $263,725.45 grant.
• Discussed a recommendation to award a contract to Enterprise Fleet Management for police vehicle leasing, not to exceed $200,000 per year.
• Discussed a recommendation to award a contract to Enterprise Fleet Management for a Health Department vehicle lease, not to exceed $7,500.
• Discussed recommendations to award professional services contracts for the Schedler property SHPO application, including to William C. Sullivan, Jr., Esq. ($40,000) and Kelly C. Ruffel ($10,000).
• Discussed a proposed ordinance to require lead service line replacement upon the sale of a home.

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council is holding a special public meeting, opening with public comments, then voting to go into closed session to discuss legal matters. The closed session covers the hiring of special counsel, a historic preservation consultant, and an engineering/landscape architecture firm for the Schedler Property's SHPO application, plus a change order for Economic Development Strategists, LLC.

• Resolution to enter closed session for legal matters
• Hiring of special counsel for Schedler Property SHPO application
• Hiring of historic preservation consultant for Schedler Property
• Hiring of engineering and landscape architectural services firm for Schedler Property
• Change order for Economic Development Strategists, LLC

Fields Committee

The Ridgewood Fields Committee will discuss water main replacement on E. Glen Avenue, field project updates including lighting at Veterans Field and renovation at Benjamin Franklin Field, and the schedule for 2025 spring/summer special events. Reports from sports clubs and a new program request are also on the agenda.

• Water main replacement on E. Glen Avenue
• Lighting upgrade at Veterans Field
• Benjamin Franklin Field renovation
• Pleasant Park/Hawes Field update
• Portable restroom distribution for spring facility maintenance

The Ridgewood Fields Committee approved the February 4, 2025 minutes and received updates on the water main replacement near Glen School, spring sports events, and field projects. No new program requests were made, and no formal votes were taken on substantive matters.

• Approved February 4, 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• No new program requests
• Adjourned at 9:17 am

Planning Board

The Planning Board public meeting and work session scheduled for March 4, 2025, has been canceled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for March 18, 2025.

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council is holding a special public budget meeting to discuss current fund revenues, surplus across all funds, and a final review of the capital budget. Two public comment periods are scheduled. No votes or ordinances are on the agenda.

• Discussion of Current Fund Revenues
• Discussion of Surplus – All Funds
• Final Capital Budget Review
• Two public comment periods (3 minutes per person, 40 minutes total each)

The Village Council held a special public budget meeting to review 2024 revenues, surplus balances, and the proposed 2025 capital budget. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was for discussion only. The council agreed to schedule the 2025 budget introduction for April 9 and a final budget meeting for April 1.

• Agreed to schedule 2025 budget introduction for April 9, 2025
• Agreed to hold final budget meeting on April 1, 2025
• Discussed 2024 revenue shortfalls, including $167,853 in fees and permits
• Reviewed surplus balances: $11.6M water operating, $600K parking operating
• Reviewed 2025 capital priorities totaling $7,486,000

Community Center Advisory Board

The Community Center Advisory Board will discuss a request from Mayor Vagianos for a special report to improve Ridgewood's Senior Center program. The board will review goals, collaborators, and funding sources to provide suggestions for the next budget hearing.

• Development of the CCR Website
• Lunch Sponsorship Program development
• CCR Foundation solicitation letter
• Age-Friendly Ridgewood Report
• Community Center Report

The board approved the January minutes and received the treasurer's report, which included the resignation of the treasurer. They discussed fundraising plans, including a Lunch and Learn event, and heard updates on Village Council budget hearings that may affect staffing and programming. No formal votes were taken on substantive items.

• Approved January meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Accepted treasurer's report noting resignation of Carol Mattessich

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will hold a public workshop to discuss awarding several contracts for water infrastructure, public safety equipment, and court resurfacing. The body will also consider establishing 2025 Ridgewood Water rates and a new ordinance prohibiting the feeding of wildlife.

• Establishment of 2025 Ridgewood Water Rates, Facilities Charge, and PFAS Treatment Charge
• Ordinance prohibiting the feeding of wildlife
• Contracts for thermal imaging cameras (Fire Department) and two Freightliner sanitation trucks
• Contracts to repair and resurface Somerville Tennis Courts and Glen Pickleball Courts
• Change order for removal of underground fuel storage tanks at North Walnut Parking Lot

The Village Council held a work session with no formal votes, discussing proposed Ridgewood Water rate increases (9% volume and facilities charge, PFAS charge increase), awarding several contracts pending formal approval, and tabling changes to annual sidewalk replacement permits. The council also discussed a wildlife feeding ordinance amendment and a resolution supporting online legal notices, with no final decisions made.

• Discussed proposed 9% water volume rate increase and PFAS/facilities charge hikes (no vote)
• Tabled changes to annual sidewalk replacement permits; staff to develop efficiencies
• Discussed wildlife feeding ordinance amendment; revisions to be prepared for introduction
• Discussed resolution supporting online legal notices; to be placed on March 12 agenda
• Authorized staff to begin hauling contaminated soil from North Walnut Street lot (no formal vote)
• Discussed awarding contracts for water corrosion control, leak detection, HVAC, PFAS construction admin (no vote)
• Discussed awarding contracts for thermal cameras, security system, truck body, tennis/pickleball courts, sanitation trucks (no vote)
• Discussed $560K change order for contaminated soil removal at North Walnut Street (no vote)

Parks, Recreation & Conservation Board

The Parks, Recreation & Conservation Board will hold a public hearing on the 2025 Capital & Operational Budget at this reorganization meeting. They will discuss a lease agreement, program content, and 10-year anniversary events with Healthbarn. Updates on park projects include Habernickel Park pavilion, Veterans Memorial Park lighting upgrade, and Hawes Field renovation at South Pleasant Park. New business includes a proposal from the NYNJ Trail Conference and a review of the Parks and Recreation facilities fee structure.

• Public hearing on 2025 Capital & Operational Budget
• Healthbarn lease agreement discussion
• Habernickel Park pavilion update
• Veterans Memorial Park lighting upgrade
• Review of Parks and Recreation facilities fee structure

The Parks, Recreation, and Conservation Board approved the concept of a gift of an orchard at Habernickel Park, with all members in favor. The board also approved the January 2025 minutes and received updates on various projects, including school rain gardens, field improvements, and a renewed lease for Healthbarn.

• Approved concept of orchard gift at Habernickel Park (all in favor)
• Approved January 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Renewed Healthbarn lease with renegotiated terms

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings for three residential property applications. The board is deciding on variances for building heights, setbacks, and lot coverage.

• 325 Crest Road: Request for 31.5 foot building height and 12.5 foot side yard setback
• 225 North Monroe Street: Request for circular driveway with 24 foot combined curb cut width
• 396 Godwin Avenue: Request for second floor and dormer additions with reduced setbacks
• 309 Windsor Terrace: Request for rear addition and patio resulting in 22.98% structure coverage

The Ridgewood Zoning Board of Adjustment approved three applications: a circular driveway at 225 North Monroe Street, a second-floor addition at 396 Godwin Avenue, and a rear addition at 309 Windsor Terrace. Each approval included specific conditions. The board also discussed its annual report, including recommendations on front-yard fences and billboard standards.

• Approved circular driveway at 225 North Monroe Street with conditions for landscape plan and Belgium block curbing
• Approved second-floor addition at 396 Godwin Avenue with condition to lower roof pitch to 25 feet and review fence by Engineering
• Approved rear addition at 309 Windsor Terrace with condition to make patio compliant with setback
• Discussed annual report topics including front-yard fence prohibition and billboard standards

Ridgewood's Access Committee

The Ridgewood Access Committee is meeting to approve December 2024 minutes, hear reports from the executive board and village council liaison, and discuss a sensory friendly dinner. Department updates include the Health Department/Stigma Free initiative and HILT. Old business covers playground matters and a movie screening of 'Patrice' on January 14; new business includes a League of Women Voters program on March 11 about post-high school options.

• Sensory Friendly Dinner update
• Movie 'Patrice' screening on January 14
• League of Women Voters program 'What Are My Options After (and during) HS?' on March 11
• Health Department/Stigma Free report
• Playground discussion under old business

The Ridgewood Community ACCESS Committee approved the December meeting minutes and discussed upcoming leadership changes, with Jaimie Davis and Jesse Schwartzmann agreeing to become Chair and Vice-Chair. The committee also reviewed progress on accessible playground funding, including $139,000 for Habernickel and a $65,000 grant, and heard from Bergen County Commissioner Tracy Zur about county resources. No formal votes were taken on these items; the only action was the minutes approval.

• Approved December meeting minutes (motion by Ashley, seconded by Joanne)
• Jaimie Davis and Jesse Schwartzmann agreed to serve as new Chair and Vice-Chair (noted, not voted)
• Discussed $139,000 Village funding for Habernickel playground phase with ADA inclusion
• Noted $65,000 grant for playground project
• Scheduled next sensory-friendly dinner for March 24 at MacMurphy's

Citizens Safety Advisory Committee

The Citizens Safety Advisory Committee will discuss updates on ongoing traffic and pedestrian safety issues, including West Saddle River Road, sight triangle obstructions, and sidewalk projects. New business includes review of a January 27 accident at Kenilworth and Laurel, and snow removal concerns. The meeting also includes public comment and a closed session.

• W. Saddle River Rd traffic issues update
• Sight triangle obstruction locations update
• Accident of Jan. 27, 2025 at Kenilworth and Laurel review
• Sidewalks and snow removal issues discussion
• Franklin at Oak traffic light timing update

The Citizens Safety Advisory Committee elected John Prieto as chairperson unanimously. The committee discussed traffic and pedestrian safety updates, including new speed signs on West Saddle River Road, a traffic light timing change at Franklin and Oak Streets, and a speed study at Kenilworth and Laurel Roads after a January 27 accident. No formal votes were taken on these items; they were updates and discussions.

• Elected John Prieto as Chairperson (unanimous)
• Installed two new speed signs on West Saddle River Road
• Changed traffic light timing at Franklin and Oak Streets to extend pedestrian crossing time
• Installed four stop signs with reflective posts on Laurel Rd. approaches at Kenilworth and Laurel intersection
• Scheduled next CSAC meeting for March 20, 2025

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council is holding a special public budget meeting to review departmental and capital budgets for Parks, Recreation, Graydon Pool, Community Center, Project Pride, Police, Parking, Trust/Accumulated Leave, and Staff Levels. The meeting includes two public comment periods.

• Review of Parks Department budget
• Review of Recreation Department budget
• Review of Graydon Pool budget
• Review of Police Department budget
• Review of Staff Levels

The Village Council held a special public budget meeting to review 2025 departmental budget requests, including Parks, Recreation, Police, and Parking Utility. No formal decisions or votes were taken; the meeting was for discussion and public comment. The next budget meeting is scheduled for February 27, 2025, with the final budget introduction tentatively set for March 12, 2025.

• No formal decisions or votes taken at this budget meeting
• Next budget meeting scheduled for February 27, 2025
• Tentative budget introduction set for March 12, 2025

Stigma-Free Committee

The Ridgewood Stigma-Free Committee will hear from Rev. Sarah Lenzi on faith-based initiatives and from Council Liaison Siobhan Winograd on the Ridgewood Lighthouse Initiative. They will discuss partnerships with the Ridgewood Library for the RACE to Be Human event and with Bergen County for Mental Health First Aid trainings. Follow-ups on partnership ideas with Access Ridgewood and social-media messaging are also on the agenda.

• Rev. Sarah Lenzi speaking on initiatives through faith-based communities
• Council Liaison Siobhan Winograd presenting the Ridgewood Lighthouse Initiative
• Partnership with Ridgewood Library for RACE to Be Human event (tentative May 13)
• Partnership with Bergen County for Mental Health First Aid Trainings (April 28 and September 12)
• Annual Stigma-Free Sticker Contest (Bergen County initiative)

The Stigma-Free Committee reviewed two logo designs created by a student intern and selected one for the revamped campaign, with plans to launch in May. The committee also discussed upcoming Mental Health First Aid trainings and a faith-based wellness series, but no formal votes were taken. The meeting was largely informational and planning-focused.

• Selected a new Stigma-Free logo design for the revamped campaign
• Decided to maintain the traditional rectangle shape and colors for the logo
• Agreed to have Health, Carol, and Siobhan draft a press release for the logo launch
• Scheduled Mental Health First Aid training for April 28 at Village Hall
• Tentatively scheduled youth Mental Health First Aid training for September 12
• Moved partnership with Ridgewood Library to next meeting

Planning Board

This is a reorganization meeting with no substantive applications or public hearings. The board will appoint a Board Attorney, administer oaths to three new members, take public comments, and adopt minutes from January 21, 2025.

• Recommendation and appointment of Board Attorney
• Oath of office for Class IV member Reese Campbell and Alternate members Elizabet Timofeeva and Sammy J. Thomas
• Public comments on non-pending topics
• Adoption of minutes from January 21, 2025
• Possible executive session

The Ridgewood Planning Board appointed the Mecca Law Firm, with attorneys Joseph Mecca Jr. and Christopher Martin, as its board attorneys. The board also discussed a proposed ordinance amendment to require Historic Preservation Commission review of all demolition applications, not just those for historic structures. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Appointed Mecca Law Firm as Planning Board attorneys (unanimous)
• Discussed draft ordinance to expand HPC demolition review to all structures

Central Business District Advisory Committee

The Central Business District Advisory Committee will hear updates on the bus station project and town garage remediation, and review standing priorities including parking, marketing, beautification, and legislative initiatives. Key items include a review of parking recommendations, Franklin Street corridor plans, blade sign ordinance implementation, and empty storefront ordinances. The committee will also discuss the Paramus Costco at the Kmart site on Linwood Avenue and new businesses in town.

• Bus station demolition project update from Village Manager Keith Kazmark
• Review of Stacey/Glenn parking recommendations and next steps
• Blade sign ordinance implementation status
• Empty storefront ordinance(s) next steps
• Paramus Costco at Kmart site on Linwood Avenue status update

The committee discussed updates on environmental remediation at the Town Garage sites, a planned replacement of the NJ Transit bus shelter at Van Neste, and parking recommendations. No formal votes were taken; decisions were limited to approving the January minutes and welcoming new members.

• Approved January 9, 2025 meeting minutes
• Welcomed new members Miranda Soffian and Dave Rosen
• Discussed remediation of 120 and 132 Franklin (Town Garage) with LSRP reports
• Noted initial $367,000 court-held payment for testing at 132 Franklin
• Planned removal of existing bus shelter in 4 weeks, pending HPC review
• Discussed parking rate changes (Hudson Garage day pass from $10 to $12)

Open Space Committee

The Ridgewood Open Space Committee is meeting to discuss the 2025 plan and progress on a NJ Green Acres diversion, an update on Schedler Park property, and the Town Garage. New business includes consideration of an Open Space Tax Referendum, a proposal from the NY/NJ Trail Conference, and updates on acquisitions. The committee will also review event suggestions for 2025 Park Walks and a Daffodil/Earth Day event.

• Update on NJ Green Acres diversion progress and 2025 plan
• Discussion of Schedler Park property status
• Town Garage discussion and update
• Open Space Tax Referendum under new business
• NY/NJ Trail Conference proposal

The Open Space Committee discussed a potential referendum to raise the open space assessment from 0.5 cents to 1 cent per $100 of assessed value, with Frank Mortimer tasked to work with the Village Council on placing it on the November ballot. The committee also reviewed updates on the Town Garage cleanup, Schedler Park archeological findings, and a NY/NJ Trail Conference proposal for trail plans and workshops in four parks. No formal votes were taken; decisions were limited to planning and follow-up assignments.

• Discussed raising open space assessment to 1 cent per $100; Frank to work with Village Council on ballot placement
• Agreed to sponsor community event and suggestion box for Town Garage future use
• Reviewed NY/NJ Trail Conference proposal for trail plans and workshops in 4 parks
• Approved January meeting notes with one typo correction
• Welcomed Alex Pastore as new committee member
• Scheduled next meeting for March 13, 2025

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Ridgewood Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on an application by 55 North Broad LLC to demolish an existing two-story structure and build a new one-story Chase Bank with a drive-through at 55 North Broad Street. The board will also continue a prior application for a circular driveway at 225 North Monroe Street and memorialize resolutions for two other properties.

• New application for demolition and construction of a Chase Bank with drive-through at 55 North Broad Street
• Continued application for a circular driveway with two curb cuts at 225 North Monroe Street
• Resolution memorialization for Cohen at 72 Ridge Road
• Resolution memorialization for Halpert at 225 South Pleasant Avenue
• Oath of office for Alternate Members Khidir Abdalla and Matthew Swan

The Board of Adjustment heard testimony on an application by 55 North Broad LLC to demolish the existing structure and build a one-story Chase Bank with a drive-through at 55 North Broad Street. No decision was made; the hearing was carried to March 11, 2025. The board also memorialized the Halpert application at 225 South Pleasant Avenue.

• Carried 55 North Broad LLC application to March 11, 2025
• Memorialized Halpert application at 225 South Pleasant Avenue

Ridgewood Arts Council

This is a regular rolling agenda meeting of the Ridgewood Arts Council. Members will discuss logistics and marketing for upcoming events including Children in the Arts on March 30th and an Artist Talk on April 24th. Other updates cover grants, the RAC Instagram account, Earth Day planning, reimbursements, the Performance Arts Center, and the Ridgewood Arts Foundation. No votes or binding decisions are expected.

• Children in the Arts March 30th – logistics and marketing discussion
• Artist Talk April 24th – logistics and marketing discussion
• Update on grants
• Earth Day planning
• RAC reimbursements and fund balance review

Kasschau Memorial Shell Committee

The committee will review the 2025 budget and finalize the schedule for summer concerts running from June 5 to August 7. They will also discuss sponsor updates, scholarship reading assignments, and potential fundraising events including a spring backyard tent/band event and an April Steel Wheel event.

• Budget review for 2025
• Schedule for 2025 shows: Tue/Thu, June 5–Aug 7, 8-10pm
• Sponsor update
• Confirm scholarship committee members for reading applications in spring
• Fundraising events: backyard with tent/band in spring? and Steel Wheel in April?

Shade Tree Commission

The Shade Tree Commission will meet to approve minutes from prior meetings and receive updates from co-chairs and the council liaison. Key business includes finalizing the 2025 Adopt-a-Sapling ordering plan and discussing a sapling sanctuary. The commission will also hear a Planning Board update and plan community events like Super Science Saturday and Daffodil Day.

• Approval of minutes from November 12, 2024, and January 14, 2025, meetings
• Adopt-a-Sapling ordering plan for 2025
• Sapling sanctuary discussion
• Planning Board update
• Super Science Saturday and Daffodil Day planning

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council is meeting for a special public session that includes public comments and discussion of the current agenda and other business. No specific ordinances, resolutions, or contracts are listed for action.

• Public comments limited to 3 minutes per person
• Discussion of the February 10, 2025 agenda
• Discussion of other Village Council business

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will review five applications for signs, additions, and new construction. The body will also vote on the adoption of the January 13, 2025, meeting minutes.

• Meltemi, 21 East Ridgewood Avenue: sign and awning
• Steinberg, 234 Fairmount Road: proposed addition
• 55 North Broad LLC, Chase Bank: new building
• Bark With Style, 216 E. Ridgewood Avenue: sign
• Heir Clean Boutique, 216 E. Ridgewood Avenue: sign

The Ridgewood Historic Preservation Commission approved all five applications as submitted, including a new Chase Bank building at 55 N. Broad St., pending review of materials and renderings. The commission also discussed a proposal to amend the Village master plan to restrict demolition of homes, following a recent demolition on Sherwood Road. No applications were denied or tabled.

• Approved sign and awning revision for Meltemi at 21 E. Ridgewood Ave as submitted
• Approved addition to Steinberg Residence at 234 Fairmount Rd as submitted
• Approved new Chase Bank building at 55 N. Broad St. as submitted, pending review of materials board and renderings
• Approved sign for Bark With Style at 216 E. Ridgewood Ave as submitted
• Approved sign for Heir Clean Boutique at 216 E. Ridgewood Ave as submitted

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will vote on a bond ordinance appropriating $2,765,550 for paving various roads and purchasing packer sanitation trucks. It will also introduce ordinances to establish Berkshire Road as a through street, set parking regulations at the Pease Building, establish 2025 sewer discharge fees, and hold public hearings on salary amendments, a stop sign, tree protection, and adding a police sergeant position. Additionally, the council will approve multiple water utility resolutions, including contracts for soil removal ($100,000), emergency water main repair ($16,534), and water bill interest rates (8% on first $1,500, 18% on balance over $1,500).

• Ordinance 4034: Bond ordinance for road paving and packer sanitation trucks (NTE $2,765,550)
• Resolution 25-104: Authorizes temporary water and general capital budgets for SCADA/security upgrades, road resurfacing, and sanitation trucks
• Resolution 25-113: Sets 2025 interest rates for delinquent water bills (8% on first $1,500, 18% on balance over $1,500, with 30-day grace period)
• Ordinance 4033: Establishes Berkshire Road from Grove Street to Ellington Road as a through street with stop signs
• Public hearing on Ordinance 4031: Amends police department table of organization to add a sergeant position

The Village Council defeated Ordinance #4030, which would have replaced the tree protection chapter, after the Village Attorney flagged substantive changes needed for better enforcement. It adopted several ordinances on second reading, including salary amendments (#4028), a stop sign at Heights Road and Avondale Road (#4029), and an additional police sergeant position (#4031). The council also introduced ordinances for water SCADA upgrades, road paving, and parking changes, and approved a consent agenda of resolutions.

• Defeated Ordinance #4030 (tree protection, removal, replacement) (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance #4028 amending salary ordinances (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance #4029 establishing stop sign at Heights Road and Avondale Road (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance #4031 adding police sergeant position (5-0)
• Introduced Ordinance #4032 appropriating $350,000 for water SCADA and security upgrades (5-0)
• Introduced Ordinance #4034 bond ordinance for $2,765,550 capital improvements (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda resolutions 25-104 through 25-113 and 25-115 through 25-143
• Appointed Jennifer Natoli as Deputy Village Clerk (Resolution 25-103)