**Public Concerns Over Contaminated Soil at Shedler Property**

The meeting began with Ridgewood residents expressing frustration and fear over contaminated soil at the Shedler property. Dana Glazer raised alarms about 600 truckloads of mercury-laden soil dumped on the property, which had triggered an NJDEP investigation. Glazer highlighted a trust deficit between the residents and the local government, saying, “this Village Council… has again and again broken that trust.”

Steve Lebenson, speaking on behalf of his son Daniel, who has autism and significant intellectual disabilities, advocated for the continued limited closure of Clinton Avenue during school times. Lebenson emphasized that the street closure had made the area safer for pedestrians but criticized the village for not installing sidewalks, leaving his son without safe access to walk.

Christina Millian and other residents echoed Glazer’s concerns, demanding clear information about the soil’s origins and urging the council to hold a public Q&A session about the contamination. The Council’s refusal to allow direct questioning of the contractor, Matrix, was a point of contention. Millian stressed the potential health risks to nearby residents and demanded comprehensive soil testing and transparent communication about remediation plans.

**Street Safety and the Debate Over Clinton Avenue**

The council also faced discussions about the proposed repeal of an ordinance that had closed Clinton Avenue to through traffic for 28 years. Residents were divided on the issue, with some like Elaine D. Bliss expressing grave concerns for the safety of children and vulnerable individuals. Bliss highlighted the dangerous conditions her son, who has disabilities, faced due to the lack of pedestrian infrastructure.

The Chief of Police confirmed that the Department of Transportation had deemed the current ordinance illegal and unenforceable. The council discussed the complexities of enforcing partial closures and the practical challenges posed by having both residents and service providers use the road.

**Infrastructure Projects and Local Improvements**

In addition to addressing environmental and safety concerns, the Council provided updates on various infrastructure projects. The resurfacing of several streets, including North Monroe Street, completed a two-year project funded by a New Jersey Department of Transportation Grant. The council expressed satisfaction with the completion of the East Glenn and Clinton Avenue sidewalk projects ahead of Labor Day.

Additionally, Bergen County’s bids for the Kingsbridge Lane pedestrian bridge were set to be due on September 24th, with discussions anticipated in early October. The council also engaged with residents from Crest Road and Hill Crest Road to address concerns regarding parking, litter, and additional landscaping.

**Water Treatment Facilities and Environmental Standards**

The council discussed the construction of new water treatment facilities in Ridgewood and surrounding areas, focusing on design and funding for the final three projects. The projects aim for completion by September 2026, with significant capital costs estimated around $92 million for construction and engineering. The council has secured $5.8 million in grant funding, including a $2.8 million grant from the EPA.

Challenges include the lengthy processes associated with securing funding and permits, as well as the discovery of historical artifacts at construction sites, which necessitate further documentation. The council is also addressing immediate water supply needs by purchasing treated water from local sources to meet regulatory standards.

**Council’s Commitment to Transparency and Public Involvement**

The discussion included plans for a field trip to a tree farm to explore potential partnerships and the status of saplings acquired for local tree planting efforts. The council reiterated its dedication to keeping the community informed about ongoing projects and decisions.