0:00A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to public comments concerning the contentious Shedler property. One resident, Ellie Gruber, emphasized the need for factual discussions and criticized the Council for not advancing the park plan, which has reportedly caused division within the community. Gruber highlighted the historical significance of the Shedler site, listed on the historic places list, and called for greater transparency. The Council responded by attributing delays to mandates from the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) requiring contamination cleanup before further actions. Since the current council took office, approximately $500,000 has been spent on testing and remediation efforts. The Council member also noted that the historical designation requires approval from the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) before any developments.

Financial concerns were also raised regarding the hiring and salary adjustments of the tax collector. A resident questioned why the salary offered exceeded the initial budgeted amount. The Council clarified that the tax collector was promoted internally, and the salary adjustment reflected this promotion. Additionally, the Council addressed workplace conduct issues after an incident was reported, promising immediate action if employees felt uncomfortable.

20:14Infrastructure development and environmental projects formed another focal point. The Village Manager updated attendees on the delivery of a new pavilion for Habernickel Park, expected to be erected soon, and discussed ongoing projects like the North Walnut underground storage tank removal. Three out of six tanks have been removed, with environmental remediation continuing at the Town Garage. The manager expressed optimism about completing these projects within the month.

Keith also reported on the Shedler soil testing process, noting that 195 questions had been submitted by residents, with responses being posted on the village website. This highlights the public interest in the environmental and health implications of the soil management process.

Council discussions also touched on the town’s leaf collection efficiency and budget misunderstandings. Residents criticized the speed of leaf collection, and it was suggested that more personnel in the fall could expedite the process. The council addressed a reported $155,000 increase in budget, clarifying it as inaccurate and emphasizing the need to review previous meetings to rectify misunderstandings.

35:00In terms of water management, the director of Ridgewood Water presented several contracts for soil removal testing, carbon media exchange, and corrosion inhibitors, all critical for maintaining safe water standards. The Council approved contracts to address these issues, including a $100,000 contract for soil testing and a $285,400 contract for corrosion inhibitors. An emergency situation involving a severe water main break in Midland Park was discussed, requiring immediate repair actions and highlighting the need for accountability when Ridgewood Water acts outside its municipality.

51:03Operational updates included discussions about the Wastewater Pollution Control Facility and Streets Division upgrades. Significant purchases were proposed, including sludge pumps, booster systems, and snow plows, with various costs outlined. The Council emphasized the importance of judicious financial management and the potential benefits of sharing services with neighboring municipalities to reduce taxpayer burdens.

1:06:35Sidewalk and tree management also sparked debate, with concerns about the negative interactions resulting from tree interference with sidewalks. A member proposed maintaining existing ordinances while introducing fines for non-compliance to streamline operations and ensure adherence to regulations. Public comments highlighted successful experiments with flexible sidewalks.

0:00In addressing public concerns, the mayor stressed transparency and communication, inviting residents to engage with the council directly. Clarifications were made regarding soil contamination at the Shedler site, reassuring that current practices ensure proper testing and disposal regardless of contamination status. The council remains committed to resolving issues stemming from past decisions and ensuring compliance with environmental standards.