NOVEMBER 10, 2015 LAST UPDATED: TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2015, 9:51 AM
BY MARK KRULISH
STAFF WRITER |
THE RIDGEWOOD NEWS
Affordable housing obligations have been a hot topic in municipalities all over New Jersey in the wake of the state Supreme Court’s decision in March to return jurisdiction in cases on affordable housing to the courts.
photo by Boyd Loving
Like many other municipalities, Ridgewood is in the midst of litigation on the matter while attempting to clarify its exact affordable housing obligation.
The village is preparing a plan to submit to a judge by December on how it will meet its obligation.
photo by Boyd Loving
Jeffrey Surenian, an attorney whose practice focuses exclusively on representing municipalities in affordable housing matters, gave a presentation at last Wednesday night’s Village Council meeting in order to shed some light on the issue.
The council was expected to discuss the issue further as part of its work session later in the meeting, but postponed talks as a public hearing pushed the start of the regular agenda past midnight.
Ridgewood NJ, For those of you who believe the Village is consistently able to bring a projects in on time and within budget, I offer this as evidence of my concerns regarding the issue.
A seemingly routine contract award by the Village Council in February jumped 288% within nine (9) months due to two (2) change orders.
And this is the same Village Council that may be awarding a contract for a $15 million parking garage.
Enough said.
**********
February
15-35 Award Contract – Servicing and Repair of Potable Water Pumping Facilities (NTE $66,813.10) – Awards the second year of a two year contract to the lowest responsible bidder, Rinbrand Well Drilling, 14 Waldron Avenue, Glen Rock, NJ
July
15-219 Authorize Change Order – Servicing & Repair of Potable Water Pumping Facilities ($60,000)- Authorizes a change order to the original contractor, Rinbrand Well Drilling Co., Inc., 14 Waldron Avenue, Glen Rock, NJ which is necessary due to additional necessary repairs to pumping facilities
November
15-361 Authorize Change Order – On-Call Servicing and Repair of Potable Well Facilities and Piping (NTE $132,650.42) – Authorizes a change order to the original contractor, Rinbrand Well Drilling Company, Inc., 14 Waldron Avenue, Glen Rock, NJ. This change order is necessary due to additional necessary repairs to pumping facilities.
FALL SESSION II PROGRAMS WITH RIDGEWOOD RECREATION – SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE!
Registration is underway for Fall Session II programs to begin in November.
Preschool
My First Art with Abrakadoodle – caregivers join as little ones enjoy “firsts” – touching, feeling, hearing, seeing, and thinking while painting, drawing, sculpting, enjoying storybooks, art games and music. Ages 20-42 months. Tuesday mornings at the Stable, 259 N. Maple Avenue. $110/6 classes, includes all materials.
Mini Doodler with Abrakadoodle – a fun journey with new lessons that inspire creativity to help little ones foster a love of art. Ages 3-5. Wednesday afternoons at the Stable, 259 N. Maple Avenue. $110/6 classes, includes all materials.
Elementary
Garden Arts for Kids – a magical mixture of nature and eco-art with lessons on animals, gardening and recycling. Ages 4-7. Monday afternoons at the Stable, 259 N. Maple Avenue. $110/6 classes, all materials provided.
Creative Cooking Holiday Fun with Education Explorers – Junior chefs learn the basics of cooking in this resourceful class; how to follow a recipe, mix, measure, and decorate with a variety of techniques and tools. Grades K-4. Mondays after school at the Stable, 259 N. Maple Avenue. $120/6 classes, includes all materials.
Drawing and/or Acrylics with Mrs. C – both offer art instruction to meet personal goals and approaches at individual levels. Grades 2-6. Acrylics is offered on Tuesdays after school and Drawing on Wednesdays after school. Both are located at the Stable, 259 N. Maple Avenue. Acrylics – $65/6 classes, Drawing – $55/5 classes. Students are to bring materials.
Super Science Mash Up #2 with Explore Science – Enjoy challenges in ALL realms of science with hands-on experiments and creations. Experiments include making your own lava lamp, working with color chemistry, making an ultimate puff mobile, making playdough, designing basic electrical circuitry and designing a bubble hat to take home. Grades K-5. Tuesdays after school at the Stable. $120/6 classes, includes all materials.
The Age of Dinosaurs with Education Explorers – Children will learn what it was like when dinosaurs owned the earth, 200 to 144 million years ago. Exciting and fun hands-on projects each week. Grades K-4. Wednesdays after school at the Stable, 259 N. Maple Avenue. $105/5 classes, includes all materials.
Crayola-la Model Magic Mania with Abrakadoodle – Participants will enjoy this art lover’s dream exploring all the wonderful products Crayola has to offer to make fabulous mixed media. Clay rules for sculpting while incorporating watercolor paints, tempera paints, oil pastels and more. Grades K-3. Thursdays after school at the Stable, 259 N. Maple Avenue. $100/5 classes, includes all materials.
Green Kids Spring Workshops **Starts October 14th** – for those who wish to explore and discover nature, gardening, science, art, birding, ecology, the environment and our senses. Grades 3-5. Wednesdays after school at the Stable, 259 N. Maple Avenue. Topics include Nature Sculptures, Homes for Feathered Friends, Homemade Troughs, Giving Thanks (community service project), and a trip to Lorrimer Sanctuary, Franklin Lakes. $50/5 workshops, all materials included. Sponsored in part by the Women Gardeners of Ridgewood.
Adults
Watercolors with Maryann Burton – Beginner and intermediate instruction for adults on Wednesday mornings at the Stable, 259 N. Maple Avenue. $95/6 classes. Students must bring own materials.
Acrylics with Sandi Chanoch – Individual and personalized attention helps all find their personal techniques. Tuesday afternoons at the Stable, 259 N. Maple Avenue. Students must bring own materials. $80/6 classes.
Annie’s Artisanal Cookery – Holiday Hors D’Oeuvres Impress your friends with easy to make Holiday hors d’oeuvres that can be made in advance. All you need to do is reheat when needed and serve. Friday afternoons at the Stable, 259 N. Maple Avenue. $90/4 sessions, all ingredients provided.
________________________________________
Please visit the Recreation homepage at www.ridgewoodnj.net/recreation for more details and to download the registration forms for in-person/by mail signups to the Stable, 259 N. Maple Avenue, Ridgewood 07450. Online registration through Community Pass is available for programs (unless otherwise noted) at www.ridgwoodnj.net/communitypass.
Don’t hesitate to call the Recreation Office at 201-670-5560 for more information of if special accommodations are needed. Non-residents may register if space allows; an additional $10 fee will apply.
New program suggestions are always welcome! Please be sure to bookmark the Recreation homepage on your computer for easy access to updated program and special event information.
$545,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1519576
415 E Saddle River Rd, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
3 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath, Col
Denise Bizet, Sales Associate
Terrie O’Connor Realtors-Ridgewood
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
24
$550,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1534639
116 Lake Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
5 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath, Col
Elizabeth Novak, Sales Associate
Weichert Realtors Ridgewood
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
19
$575,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1534268
370 Kensington Dr, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
3 Bedroom, 1 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Janet Golfo, Sales Associate
Coldwell Banker, Ridgewood
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
23
$589,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1524453
278 Cedarcroft Rd, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
4 Bedroom, 1 Full Bath,
2 Half Bath, S/L
Denise Jarrett, Sales Associate
Prominent Properties Sotheby’s International Realty-Ridgewood
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
16
$599,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1530460
328 Marshall St, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
3 Bedroom, 1 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Anne Marangi, Sales Associate
Terrie O’Connor Realtors-UpSdRv
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
24
$639,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1540480
1102 E Ridgewood Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
3 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath, Col
Laurie Catizone-Jordan, Sales Associate
Keller Williams Village Square Realty
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
24
$649,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1535930
456 E Saddle River Rd, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
3 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Ranch
Thomas Panso, Sales Associate
Keller Williams Valley Realty
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
– See more at: https://www.njmls.com/NJ/BERGEN/RIDGEWOOD-open-houses#sthash.D1QAWIjf.XNTTOdCG.dpuf
$649,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1537519
512 E Saddle River Rd, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
4 Bedroom, 3 Full Bath, S/L
William F. Gilsenan Jr, Broker
Gilsenan & Co.
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
23
$649,500 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1538028
286 S Maple Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
4 Bedroom, 1 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Joan Marie Monton, Broker Associate
Coldwell Banker, Ridgewood
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
25
$739,900 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1540647
292 Spring Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
3 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Twnhs
Michelle Stojanovic, Sales Associate
Tarvin Realtors
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:30 P.M. Sun. 11/8
25
$759,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1533214
395 Hamilton Rd, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
4 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath, S/L
Oksoon Yang, Sales Associate
Weichert Realtors Ridgewood
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
23
$792,500 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1542277
619 Frederick St, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
4 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Angele Ekert, Sales Associate
Keller Williams Village Square Realty
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
18
$799,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1538412
524 E Saddle River Rd, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
4 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Paul Lagano, Sales Associate
Weichert Realtors Ridgewood
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
25
$829,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1543786
520 Hillcrest Rd, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
4 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Maureen Mole, Sales Associate
RE/MAX Properties-Saddle River
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
25
$989,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1544331
259 Highwood Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
5 Bedroom, 3 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Qizhan Yao, Broker Owner
Realmart Realty, LLC
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
6
$1,375,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1521212
51 N Hillside Pl, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
5 Bedroom, 4 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Rose Hueneke, Broker Associate
Keller Williams Village Square Realty
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
25
– See more at: https://www.njmls.com/NJ/BERGEN/RIDGEWOOD-open-houses#sthash.D1QAWIjf.XNTTOdCG.dpuf
$1,395,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1536607
5 Paul Ct, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
4 Bedroom, 3 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Frances Ekblom, Sales Associate
Tarvin Realtors
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:30 P.M. Sun. 11/8
25
$1,525,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1543846
123 Woodland Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
4 Bedroom, 2 Full Bath,
2 Half Bath, Col
Jennifer M. Parsekian, Broker
Keller Williams Village Square Realty
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
25
$1,550,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1533078
371 Crest Rd, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
5 Bedroom, 3 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Samira Cook, Sales Associate
Coldwell Banker, Ridgewood
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
25
$2,495,000 in Ridgewood
MLS # 1524194
296 Manor Rd, Ridgewood, NJ 07450
6 Bedroom, 7 Full Bath,
1 Half Bath, Col
Dennis Jaye, Broker Associate
RE/MAX Real Estate Limited
Open House: 1:00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. Sun. 11/8
– See more at: https://www.njmls.com/NJ/BERGEN/RIDGEWOOD-open-houses#sthash.D1QAWIjf.XNTTOdCG.dpuf
Leaf Collection Schedule Including dates for leaves to be placed in the street
IMPORTANT UPDATE ON LEAF COLLECTION DATES
This past week we have stepped up our enforcement efforts for leaf removal. As a result warning letters were issued to those homes which had leaves out not within the timeframe provided or too close to a storm drain. There seems to be some confusion as to when leaves are to be placed in the street. A clarification of the dates is as follows:
AREA A
Collection Date – Nov. 5 – 10 (Leaves MUST be placed in the street between Oct. 29 through Nov. 5)
Collection Date – Nov. 30 – Dec. 3 (Leaves MUST be placed in the street between Nov. 23 through Nov. 30)
AREA B
Collection Date – Nov. 9 – 13 (Leaves MUST be placed in the street between Nov. 2 through Nov. 9)
Collection Date Nov. 30 – Dec. 4 (Leaves MUST be placed in street between Nov. 23 through Nov. 30)
Collection Date – Dec. 14 – 18 (Leaves MUST be placed in street between Dec. 7 through Dec. 14)
AREA C
Collection Date – Nov. 12 – 18 (Leaves MUST be placed in street between Nov. 5 through Nov. 12)
Collection Date – Dec. 7-11 (Leaves MUST be placed in street between Dec. 1 through Dec. 7)
AREA D
Collection Date – Nov. 19 – 25 (Leaves MUST be placed in street between Nov. 12 through Nov. 19)
Collection Date – Dec. 14 – 18 (Leaves MUST be placed in street between Dec. 7 through Dec. 14)
With the heavy leaf drop upon us it is important that you have leaves out by the FIRST DATE of your scheduled pick-up. Leaves WILL NOT be picked up on all dates shown for pick up but rather during that timeframe. Your leaves will only be picked up ONCE during that timeframe. We will not go back to your street until your next scheduled day once we have picked up your leaves.
USA TODAY NETWORKDan Cassuto, KING
9:32 a.m. EST November 19, 2014
SEATTLE, Wash. — Here’s an excuse to use the next time someone asks you to rake the leaves: Science.
The National Wildlife Federation is encouraging people to leave the leaves.
On its website, the NWF says dry, dead leaves are important habitats for all kinds of critters, reports KING.
Butterflies, salamanders, chipmunks, box turtles, toads, shrews, earthworms, and other creatures live, lay eggs in or eat from leaves, according to NWF’s plea with the public to let the leaves stay where gravity left them.
2015 LEAF PICK UP SCHEDULE – ENFORCEMENT OF SCHEDULE
NOTICE CONCERNING LEAF REMOVAL FOR 2015
Last year the Village of Ridgewood implemented a pilot program to outsource a portion of our leaf removal service. After reviewing and evaluating input that was provided by you regarding the success of this change, we again will be using the services of a third party contractor in Area B. The combined effort of the Village staff and this contractor will enforce our continuing commitment to improve your Village services.
In accordance with last years’ schedule, residents in Area B will remain the same with the exception of the following streets which will now be considered “Area D” for leaf season only.
Beechwood Rd. Unadilla Rd.
Carlton Terr. Valley View Ave.
Elm Ct. Waiku Rd.
Kemah Rd. Wastena Terr.
N. Monroe St. (house #108 – 412) Windsor Terr.
Palmer Ct. Woodland Ave. (house #116 – #223)
Sheridan Terr.
Area A
Oct. 19 – 22
Nov. 5 – 10
Nov. 30 – Dec. 3
Area B
Oct. 21 – 27
Nov. 9 – 13
Nov. 30 – Dec. 4
Dec. 14 – 18
Area C
Oct. 23 – 28
Nov. 12 – 18
Dec. 7 – 11
Area D
Oct. 29 – Nov. 4
Nov. 19 – 25
Dec. 14 – 18
Leaves must be placed directly in the street no more than 7 days prior to your scheduled pick up date. Please have your leaves in the street on the first day scheduled for collection. If you employ the services of a landscaper communicate these dates to them. No brush will be collected during leaf season. You may continue to bring leaves as well as brush to the Recycling Center. The hours of operation are Monday through Saturday, 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Leaves can also be placed in paper biodegradable bags. Bags will be available at the Recycling Center on a first come, first serve basis. When using bags please place them on the curb area and they will be collected separately.
The most vocal comment heard from residents last year was on properties who did not comply with the schedule. Therefore enforcement will be vital to the Village’s success to improve this service. An enforcement agent NOW ISSUING SUMMONS to those that violate these guidelines.
As weather is a key component to this operation, if changes become necessary it will be posted on the Village of Ridgewood website. In addition you are encouraged to sign up for e-mail notifications via the Village website and to share this information with your neighbors. As a reminder, use caution when our leaf removal crews are on your block. When possible please take an alternate route to ensure the safety of all. Should you have any questions, please call the Street Division at (201) 670-5585.
Televised Parking Deck Information Session – Tonight- Nov 2 @ 7:30PM
Cablevision (Channel 77) and FIOS (Channel 34) will broadcast live tonight starting at 7:30PM the CBD Forum with details of the Hudson Street Parking Deck. If you cannot attend the meeting at Village Hall tonight, please tune in!
Ridgewood Information Forums – Hudson St. Parking Deck – November 2
Two important forums scheduled in Village Hall – 4th Floor Court Room – to discuss the proposed Hudson Street Parking Deck: Wednesday, October 21 and Monday, November 2 from 7:30pm to 9:30pm. Village professionals as well as the design team from Desman Associates will be on hand to discuss all aspects of the proposed parking deck, including the design and financials. All are welcome to attend. All questions are welcome!
Questions:
Official Parking Referendum Question
Community Support
President of the Chamber of Commerce statement
Financial Advisory Committee Statement
Historic Preservation Commission Statement
Study,Design, and Analysis
Walker Parking Preliminary Financial Analysis – October 2, 2015
Walker Parking Consultant Study – July 5th, 2015
Walker Parking Floor Plans
Resolutions
Resolution 15-222 : Non-Binding Referendum – Nov 3, 2015 Ballot
Ridgewood Nj , So the big vote is tomorrow and where as cynics would suggest residents will have the option to once again agree or disagree with a proposed project that will be jammed down their throats whether they like it or not . Not buying it ,take one look at Schedler Field ah Park or what every you call it .
A historic land slide loss for the RBSA backed candidate in the last Village Council election ,who’s sole purpose was to put a “turf field in every pot” has resulted in a you guessed a turf field for Schedler Field . So much for the electorate has spoken .
We decided to actually speak with some people in the Central Business District who actually make a living from their business in Ridgewood .
Several reminded us of promises past . That promise was that all the parking meter money would be used solely for the purpose of building a Village Parking facility . Yes this promise was made to justify the installation of parking meters in the Central Business District way back in the late 1960’s, yes we said 1960’s. Little did anyone know that change would leave the building mysteriously in 50 pound bags unnoticed by anyone . Too many old timers , the garage has been paid for over and over.
The next issue many brought up was and we have seen this with our own eyes , that the metered spaces are all ready filled before 10 am . Funny but not many businesses are open that early . Some merchants felt that spaces are taken by commuters, CBD employees and now the valet parking people . The valet parking is thought to provide parking for a select few while most merchants and their customers are left fighting over the few remaining spaces. The merchants we spoke with all felt the garage would go along way to alleviating those issues. Maybe the valet parking , or commuter parking can concentrate in the garage while shoppers use street parking.
Another old issue that popped up was the so called $13 summons lawsuit that lost the CBD over 90 spaces, that my friends is a tale for another time .
Merchants on Oak Street complained about the the multiple valet parking issues leaving their customers with no place to go but to out of town locations. While others felt the rents due to taxes and fees ,triple net leases , left little wiggle room and the loss of a couple of sales a month would be the difference making it or closing up when the lease expires.
Yes most would agree there would be more traffic , but again take that up with the “traffic easing specialist ” in Village hall .There are just too many choke points in the Downtown already but if you want a vital and unique business district you need traffic .
Most didn’t mind the extension of metered parking hours giving dinners a chance to share in costs while merchants feel their customers are currently subsidizing the whole, but extended hours does not mean anyone was a fan of higher parking fees .
We asked many about cost over runs , and the answer was vintage entrepreneur; create a community over site board of all those who oppose the garage idea and have then audit the construction process and make sure the quarters end up in the right hands .
Many of the merchants clearly understood the public’s reluctance to finance the garage and said the Village had lost all credibility since the Village Hall fiasco , pursuing one foolish folly after another and not being up front with taxpayers . We all know there is going to be more traffic , stop the lying and lets prepare for it. We all know Ridgewood water is woefully un prepared stop lying and lets fix it . We all know if we build in the CBD more kids will attend the schools stop the denials and lets deal with it . We all know Valley needs to update, time for a realistic plan not fantasy monstrosities. Leave tito’s alone , focus on building the business downtown not wrecking it. We got the feeling like most of the regular readers for this blog ,that some vision and leadership is sorely needed.
While we could not help feel a sense of doom hanging over the downtown , it seems for too long the Village has taken the CBD for granted and the Chamber of Commerce has played footsie with the Village council . New Jersey is not exactly a business friendly environment, so the Village needs to decide whether it wants a unique vital down town or not . The parking garage is not a panacea but in combination with proper vision and a little planning the downtown could play a significant roll in the Villages future.
Public Hearing – Habernickel Park – November 4, 2015
VILLAGE OF RIDGEWOOD
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
The Village Council of the Village of Ridgewood will hold a Public Hearing on November 4, 2015 at a Special Public Meeting, during their regularly scheduled Work Session, which begins at 7:30 P.M. in the Ridgewood Village Hall, 131 North Maple Avenue, Ridgewood, New Jersey for public comment on the following:
Changing the use of the house at 1057 Hillcrest Road, Block 1103, Lot 16.01, Ridgewood, NJ, located in the Irene Habernickel Family Park from a residential lease to an educational and recreational programing lease.
A public hearing is required pursuant to NJDEP Green Acres Rules N.J.A.C. 7:36-25-6 et. seq. for a change in purpose or use of funded or unfunded parkland.
Documents relating to the proposed development are available for examination by the public at the Village Manager’s Office of the Ridgewood Village Hall, 131 North Maple Avenue, Ridgewood, NJ, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Oral comments and testimony will be heard at the public hearing. Written comments may be submitted before the date of the hearing or within two weeks from the date of the public hearing.
Written comments or inquiries should be directed to Nancy Lawrence, NJDEP Green Acres Program, Bureau of Legal Services & Stewardship, Mail Code 501-01, P.O. Box 420, Trenton, NJ 08625-0420 and Janet Fricke, Assistant to the Village Manager, Ridgewood Village Hall, 131 North Maple Avenue, Ridgewood, NJ 07451 or by telephone at (201) 670-5500, Extension 204 or by email to: jfricke@ridgewoodnj.net.
I am writing to speak with you about our early experiences this leaf season.
As you know last year we introduced the “No Leaf Left Behind” initiative and introduced changes to the leaf pick-up process. This year, we held our second leaf summit with all of our staff engaged in the leaf process to review post-mortem results from last year as well as to think through new enhancements to the processing of leaves. For example, we are introducing a new piece of equipment to our tool box, a claw, that we think will add value. If we see a significant improvement we will buy another claw for next year. We also rebid the leaf removal process for Section B – we have a new contractor this year based on lowest bid requirements.
Importantly, we heard you last year about the need for strict enforcement of the leaf schedule, particularly the issue that some residents and/or their contractors were placing their leaves in the street right after a collection cycle thereby causing many leaves left on the streets for weeks. In our recent letter that was mailed to all residents with the leaf schedule, we also indicated that we would strictly enforce the leaf schedule and that summonses would be issued. Unfortunately I can report to you that we did compliance monitoring on various streets within Area A after leaf pick up was concluded on October 22nd and we had a very large number of violators. Over two days, we had over 40 summonses to be written – this was also a limited review…. we could have documented many more and this is not acceptable for our community.
I want to explain to you why I decided not to issue summonses in these cases – instead we are issuing warnings. It turns out that violating the leaf ordinance, even the first time, requires a court appearance by the resident; fines begin at $50. It was this court appearance that resulted in the decision that warnings would be issued for the first week of leaf collection in each Leaf Area. Summonses will begin the second week in each Area. Please remember that the homeowner is responsible for his/her landscaper. We have been in contact with registered landscapers and shared the schedule with them as part of our communications strategy.
A couple of other points to share with you. First, we did get a bit of an early start in Area A this year which caused some confusion for residents. Our intent was always to loop back to those streets that we started early but I apologize for any confusion that this may have caused. Secondly, as we did last year we will add collection dates to the schedule if they are needed. Since the leaves seem to be falling slowly this year, I anticipate that this will be the case. Please check our website (www.ridgewoodnj.net) for updates, and I will send E-Notices when needed.
Our staff is reminding all residents to not place recycling barrels or basketball hoops in the roadway during leaf collection as these objects cause a safety issue and unnecessary maneuvering of our vehicles. Additionally, leaf piles in the street cause potentially dangerous conditions by narrowing the street for vehicles, so residents should avoid parking close to leaf piles or driving over them.
Effective collection of leaves is an effort that requires the Village and its residents to be collaborative and mutually supportive. As a result, I would like to request again that you let us know how we can perform better and be more sensitive to your requirements. We are breaking in a new contractor as well as new equipment and we will closely monitor this but you are our eyes and ears and therefore we are reliant on you to help make this process more effective.
Today the leaves are not quite brown but the skies are grey – Ridgewood dreamin’ on such a Autumn’s day……
Best,
Roberta Sonenfeld
Village Manager
201-670-5500, ext. 203
2015 LEAF PICK UP SCHEDULE – ENFORCEMENT OF SCHEDULE
NOTICE CONCERNING LEAF REMOVAL FOR 2015
Last year the Village of Ridgewood implemented a pilot program to outsource a portion of our leaf removal service. After reviewing and evaluating input that was provided by you regarding the success of this change, we again will be using the services of a third party contractor in Area B. The combined effort of the Village staff and this contractor will enforce our continuing commitment to improve your Village services.
In accordance with last years’ schedule, residents in Area B will remain the same with the exception of the following streets which will now be considered “Area D” for leaf season only.
Leaves must be placed directly in the street no more than 7 days prior to your scheduled pick up date. Please have your leaves in the street on the first day scheduled for collection. If you employ the services of a landscaper communicate these dates to them. No brush will be collected during leaf season. You may continue to bring leaves as well as brush to the Recycling Center. The hours of operation are Monday through Saturday, 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Leaves can also be placed in paper biodegradable bags. Bags will be available at the Recycling Center on a first come, first serve basis. When using bags please place them on the curb area and they will be collected separately.
The most vocal comment heard from residents last year was on properties who did not comply with the schedule. Therefore enforcement will be vital to the Village’s success to improve this service. An enforcement agent NOW ISSUING SUMMONS to those that violate these guidelines.
As weather is a key component to this operation, if changes become necessary it will be posted on the Village of Ridgewood website. In addition you are encouraged to sign up for e-mail notifications via the Village website and to share this information with your neighbors. As a reminder, use caution when our leaf removal crews are on your block. When possible please take an alternate route to ensure the safety of all. Should you have any questions, please call the Street Division at (201) 670-5585.
From: Paul Aronsohn <paul@paularonsohn.com>
Sent: Monday, October 19, 2015 10:37 PM
To: paul@paularonsohn.com
Subject: Parking Campaign — Three Things
Dear Neighbor –
The November 3rd election is just two weeks away. That means our campaign to build a downtown parking deck is entering its final stretch.
To generate both education and excitement … I recommend the following three things:
Parking Forum: This Wednesday (10/21), we will be holding an interactive forum to discuss the proposed parking deck. Meet and talk with representatives of our design firm, Desman. Meet and talk with Village CFO / Parking Utility Director Bob Rooney. Ask questions. Get answers. Village Hall 4th floor Council Chamber at7:30pm. Please join us. Everyone is welcome.
Questions & Answers: Attached is a two-pager that addresses questions that have been asked of me. I hope you find it useful.
Draft Parking Deck Rendering: Attached is a draft rendering of a Hudson Street Parking Deck. It’s a work in progress that reflects input from several people, including members of the Historic Preservation Commission. Take a look. Share your thoughts. Your input is wanted.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Hope to see you on Wednesday.
Thanks,
Paul
Paul Aronsohn, Mayor
Village of Ridgewood
@paularonsohn
