Village of Ridgewood

The Village Council meeting on April 8, 2026, began with the approval of bills, claims, and minutes. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to recognizing Dr. Robert G. Lahita for his 36 years of service as the medical director for the ambulance service, proclaiming April 8th as 'Dr. Bob Day.' Several proclamations were also read, including for Tree Planting Month, Slow Mo May, National Mental Health Awareness Month, National Drinking Water Week, and Older Americans Month. Public comment featured concerns about the soil remediation project at Schedler Field, with residents questioning tree removal and the council's attendance at related meetings. Environmental initiatives, such as tree planting and reducing single-use plastics, were discussed, alongside resident concerns about artificial turf and water quality. The village's budget and spending were also a topic of discussion, with residents expressing concerns about tax increases and suggesting service cuts, while the council defended the budget process and highlighted its challenges. The council addressed a substantial number of ordinances and resolutions, including the adoption of ordinances related to cap banks, bond ordinances for treatment plants, salary adjustments, zoning amendments for blade signs, and fees for emergency management. The 2026 municipal budget public hearing was held, proposing a 3.98% increase, but its adoption was deferred to May pending state approval. Discussions also delved into the village's debt load, the Valley Hospital tax appeal, and village operations, including employee numbers and vehicle fleets. The meeting concluded with the adjournment of the council.

The Village of Ridgewood Council convened for a public workshop on February 25, 2026, and a regular council meeting on February 26, 2026, addressing a wide range of community matters. Public comments during the workshop highlighted concerns about artificial turf at Schedler Field, appreciation for snow removal efforts, and inquiries regarding park improvements and municipal budget availability. Residents also voiced opinions on public engagement and the council's conduct. The council responded to these comments, providing updates on projects and addressing concerns. The meetings featured several key agenda items and presentations. The installation of hearing loop technology in the courtroom was presented as a significant advancement in accessibility. The council approved the purchase and installation of playground equipment at Kings Pond Park and the update of the Recreation Open Space Inventory (ROSSI), both fulfilling Green Acres program requirements. Furthermore, the Office of Emergency Management was established as a village department, and the Bergen County Hazard Mitigation Plan was adopted. The Ridgewood Fire Department's enrollment in the Joint Insurance Fund Certified Fire Department Program was also approved. Discussions throughout the meetings emphasized the council's commitment to community well-being, infrastructure development, and public safety. Topics such as snow cleanup enforcement, water quality, and the logistics of village events like the Fourth of July parade were addressed. Council members acknowledged staff contributions and celebrated achievements, including the New Jersey Recreation Professional of the Year award for Nancy Beos. The overall tone reflected a proactive approach to governance, balancing resident feedback with strategic planning for the village's future.

The Ridgewood Village Council meeting on December 10, 2025, featured several key agenda items, including the swearing-in of a new firefighter and the promotion of another to lieutenant. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to public safety, specifically the installation of barriers on the fourth floor of the Hudson Street garage to prevent falls and unauthorized access. Residents voiced concerns about the Kensington project's impact on zoning and the procedures for public comment. The council also approved numerous resolutions related to village operations, contracts for Ridgewood Water, and various appointments to boards and committees. Two ordinances concerning traffic and parking regulations were introduced on first reading, and an ordinance fixing police officer salaries was adopted on second reading. A proposed holiday parking program offering free parking on two Saturdays in December was debated and ultimately failed to pass.

This community meeting provided an update on the Schedler Property Soil Remediation Project. Village Manager Keith Casmark introduced representatives from Matrix New World Engineering and North Star Environmental Services, who detailed the scope of work, which includes removing contaminated soil, flat areas, and debris from the property. The presentation covered the necessary state approvals received from the NJDEP and SHPO, setting a tentative project start date for late April or early May 2026, with an estimated duration of six to eight weeks. The meeting also addressed community concerns regarding traffic and air quality. The Ridgewood Police Department outlined a comprehensive traffic plan designed to minimize disruption from truck movements, including rerouting access points and utilizing offsite staging areas. A detailed air quality monitoring plan was presented, explaining the thresholds for public health risk, public notification, and on-site response actions to control dust. Five air monitoring stations will be deployed, and the plan will be made publicly available. Finally, the presentation covered site protection measures, including fencing off an archeologically sensitive area and the process for obtaining permits to remediate identified wetlands. Residents were encouraged to sign up for notifications via a QR code, although the likelihood of needing to issue public health alerts was deemed very low due to the robust monitoring and mitigation strategies. The meeting concluded with an open Q&A session, beginning with a resident's question about the placement of air quality monitors.

The Village of Ridgewood convened a community forum on April 1, 2026, to address the mandated reassessment of all real properties, a process initiated by the Bergen County Board of Taxation to align property values with current market rates for the 2027 tax year. Village Manager Keith Kasmarek emphasized that this reassessment is revenue-neutral, aiming to redistribute the tax burden rather than increase overall tax collection, noting the significant market changes since the last revaluation in 2008 and reassessment in 2012. Representatives from Appraisal Systems, Robert Brescia and Michael Coplin, detailed the seven-step reassessment process, explaining how taxes are calculated and providing examples of potential impacts on individual tax bills. They also addressed resident concerns regarding inspection procedures, privacy, and liability, assuring them of inspector training and safety protocols in coordination with the Ridgewood Police Department. Throughout the forum, residents raised numerous questions concerning the practicalities and fairness of the reassessment. Key concerns included the scheduling of property inspections, the relationship between appraised, assessed, and market values, and the calculation of the tax rate. Residents also inquired about how specific property features, such as renovations, kitchens, central air, generators, and flood plain status, would affect their assessments. The council and Appraisal Systems representatives responded by explaining the necessity of mass appraisals for efficiency, clarifying valuation methodologies, and detailing the timeline for notifications and informal hearings. They stressed that the current assessments are outdated and inequitable, making this reassessment crucial for fairness. Mayor Paul Vagianos and Assessor William Palumbo reinforced the message of revenue neutrality and the importance of the reassessment as the primary avenue for equity, given the challenges of appealing current, outdated assessments. Discussions also touched upon senior tax programs, with the assessor's office confirming they maintain relevant documentation. The council encouraged residents to review their property record cards once available to ensure accuracy and to communicate any special circumstances. The overall sentiment from the village leadership was one of transparency and a commitment to a fair and accurate reassessment process for all property owners in Ridgewood.

The Village Council of Ridgewood held a public workshop on March 30, 2026. The meeting began with a special presentation by Penn Miller Jones, a new business owner, who introduced his plans to open 'The Milkshake Factory' in town. Following this, Rich Calby, Director of Ridgewood Water, presented several agenda items concerning water infrastructure, including a research project with Revive, an agreement with the NJDOT, a supplemental bond ordinance for PAS plants, and a new vendor for drug and alcohol testing. Chief Judge also provided an update on BLS billing services and the urgent need to replace an aging ambulance, which was approved by the council. The council then discussed and approved a grant acceptance from NJIT for a storm water management study, aimed at developing flood mitigation strategies. This initiative was highlighted as particularly important due to ongoing flooding issues and reduced federal support. Further agenda items included the authorization of grant applications for improvements to Upper Citizens Park and the rehabilitation of the pedestrian tunnel at the Ridgewood train station, with applications being submitted to both county and state historic preservation funds. The meeting concluded with the council voting to enter into a closed session to discuss legal matters concerning Valley Hospital tax appeals. The council members expressed enthusiasm for the various projects and initiatives discussed, particularly those focused on improving infrastructure and community services.

The Village of Ridgewood held a series of meetings on March 25th and 26th, 2026, encompassing a Public Workshop, a Special Public Meeting, and a Regular Council Meeting. Key discussions revolved around the upcoming property reassessment, the Shedler Field soil remediation project, and various village ordinances and improvements. The reassessment process was explained, emphasizing its revenue-neutral nature and the goal of bringing property values to fair market value. Residents raised concerns about how neighborhood changes and property features would be factored into valuations, with council members assuring transparency and explaining the reliance on historical sales data. The Shedler Field project was a significant focus, with the adoption of a bond ordinance to fund soil remediation. Public comments and council responses clarified that the bond ordinance and associated loan are strictly for soil remediation and cannot be used for park development. Concerns were also raised regarding communication strategies for upcoming meetings related to the Shedler Field project and the rationale behind berm removal. Other topics addressed included public notification on the village website, downtown improvements such as flower pots and trash cans, and train tunnel safety. Several ordinances were introduced and adopted, including those concerning blade signs, affordable housing, and the rescission and replacement of previous ordinances. Resolutions were approved for traffic engineering contracts, budget transfers, and field policy revisions. The council also discussed the purchase of diesel fuel and gasoline, a potential partnership for flood mitigation with NJIT, and the declaration of surplus police cars. The meetings demonstrated the council's engagement with both legally mandated actions and community concerns, with a commitment to transparency and addressing resident feedback.

The Ridgewood Village Council held a Public Workshop on February 4th, 2026, addressing a range of agenda items and public comments. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the Shedler remediation project, where the lowest bid of $2.6 million was presented. Council members and residents discussed the high cost, the necessity of the remediation, and the process for financing the project, including potential loans from the Bergen Joint Insurance Fund. Concerns were raised about potential change orders and the communication plan for residents living near the contaminated site. Another key discussion point was the request to add a Ramadan crescent lighting, which received enthusiastic support from the council as a cultural expression to foster community celebration. The council also reviewed and approved several items related to Ridgewood Water, including a professional service contract, security upgrades, and a rate adjustment that will result in an 11.3% increase for average customers. The acceptance of donations for public land enhancements, such as the children's sensory garden and field renovations at Veterans Field, were also approved. Public comments touched upon the broadcasting of meetings, the desire for more virtual access, and the challenges associated with it. Residents also inquired about the placement of a former council member's photo and expressed concerns about the process of awarding bids and managing change orders on public projects. The council addressed these concerns, explaining legal requirements and ongoing efforts to mitigate risks and ensure transparency.

The Ridgewood Village Council held a Public Workshop on January 7th, 2026. The meeting began with a moment of silence to honor Tony Damiano, a respected community member. Public comment included a request to display Councilwoman Lorraine Reynolds' photo and concerns about limitations on public speaking at previous meetings. A resident also questioned the building department's policy on requiring personal information for complaints. Key agenda items focused on numerous contracts and services for the Ridgewood Water utility, including repairs, maintenance, chemical purchases, and system upgrades. The council also approved a grant writer contract, recognizing its significant return on investment. Other discussions involved amendments to recreation fees, the purchase of rock salt, and the rescission of an ordinance related to the park and ride facility, which is now managed by the state. The planning board's review of fair share housing ordinances was also presented, with a recommendation to consider public and board concerns. The meeting concluded with the council moving into a closed session to discuss legal matters concerning the Shedler property.

The Village Council meeting on March 12, 2026, saw the adoption of several ordinances and resolutions. Ordinance 4085, concerning village fees, and Ordinance 4086, a bond ordinance for capital improvements including Maple Field turf replacement, were passed after second readings and public hearings. Ordinance 4087, amending zoning regulations for signs, was also adopted following a public hearing where a typo was noted and a request for second-floor blade signs was mentioned. Further ordinances introduced for first reading included Ordinance 4091 (supervisory employee compensation), Ordinance 4092 (emergency management reorganization), and Ordinance 4093 (emergency management cost recovery fees). Multiple resolutions were approved via consent agenda, covering contract awards for park amenities, various services, and administrative matters such as hazard mitigation plans and affordable housing initiatives. During public comment, a resident, Boyd Loving, raised concerns about a geese problem at a proposed park location, requesting mitigation strategies. Mayor Vagianos responded that the council is working with the health department on village-wide solutions. Council members also shared past experiences and humorous suggestions for addressing the issue. Another resident inquired about the cost breakdown for Maple Field turf replacement, and a third resident noted a typo in a zoning ordinance and mentioned a referral to the historic preservation council regarding blade signs.

The Village Council held a regular workshop meeting followed by a special public meeting. Key discussions included the introduction of the 2026 municipal budget and significant actions related to the Shedler property remediation, including the approval of a bond ordinance and emergency appropriation. The council also addressed updates to the village's affordable housing code to comply with state mandates. In a special presentation, the revised fields policy was reviewed, detailing updates to facility usage, scheduling, insurance requirements, and other operational aspects, a collaborative effort between the village and the Board of Education. The Ridgewood Water department provided updates on various contracts and projects, including a significant $1.53 million grant for lead abatement. Several agenda items were approved, including contracts for water system software, soil testing, and infrastructure projects, as well as a change order for the Shedler property soil mitigation and a shared services agreement for a styrofoam densifier program. Public comment covered a range of topics, including questions about loan versus bond resolutions, the proposed Shedler remediation funding, and suggestions for recognizing Loving Day. Residents also raised concerns about field lighting, water quality from external sources, and the persistent issue of parking at Village Hall. Council members provided responses to these comments, addressing concerns about funding sources, policy details, and ongoing efforts to find solutions for parking challenges.

The Village Council convened for a comprehensive budget meeting spanning two days, addressing a wide array of departmental needs and financial considerations for the upcoming year. Initial discussions focused on essential services and infrastructure, including building maintenance, with specific attention to the aging HVAC systems at Village Hall and the need for capital investment. The Signal division received commendation for their efficiency and dedication. The Water Pollution Control Facility's budget highlighted operational challenges, overtime, and capital requests for critical equipment, while the Fleet and Streets Division presented a budget showing cost savings, though the necessity of replacing aging equipment like the street sweeper and a garage lift was emphasized. The council delved into various other departmental budgets, including Yard Waste and Recycling, Engineering, Utilities, and Emergency Management. Significant attention was given to the rising costs of health insurance for both employees and retirees, with strategies like the Difference Card being discussed to mitigate financial impacts. Staffing levels, including the addition of part-time positions, were also a key topic, with an emphasis on justifying new hires. Capital improvement projects, such as the Emergency Operations Center upgrades and the Schedler project, were reviewed, alongside discussions on debt service, shared services agreements, and the status of various trust funds. The budget process was outlined, with a clear roadmap for finalizing recommendations and introducing the 2026 budget. The council demonstrated a commitment to prudent financial management, balancing essential services with capital investments and addressing the complexities of rising operational costs. The discussions underscored the interconnectedness of various village operations and their impact on the overall budget and resident services.

The Village Council meeting on January 28, 2026, began with the introduction of key new management personnel, including William Beerwas as Deputy Director of Ridgewood Water, James McGrath as Director of Public Works, and Neil Gogne as Director of IT and GIS. These appointments signal a strategic strengthening of village operations. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a presentation on planned improvements for the community center and its senior programs, notably bolstered by a substantial $231,000 donation from the Ridgewood Senior Citizens Corporation. This funding is earmarked for state-of-the-art upgrades to enhance programming and social spaces, reflecting a commitment to the village's growing senior population. The council addressed several operational and contractual matters, approving significant contracts for the police department, including the purchase and leasing of vehicles from Winter Ford and Enterprise Management, respectively. The village also renewed its contract with Open Systems Integration for security systems and access control. Discussions also covered an amendment to the code regarding blade signs, with a decision on second-floor tenant eligibility deferred. Public comments raised concerns about ebike regulations, sidewalk clearing after a recent snowfall, and the jarring nature of the meeting bell, prompting council members to acknowledge the feedback and explore potential solutions. Further agenda items included authorizing a payment for a tax court judgment settlement and a resolution to enter into a closed session to discuss a legal matter involving Valley Health versus the Village of Ridgewood. The meeting also touched upon ongoing budget hearings, with the budget introduction and discussion of affordable housing ordinances scheduled for February 11th. Various council members provided updates on community initiatives, environmental efforts, and upcoming events, underscoring a proactive approach to village management and community engagement.

The Village Council convened for a Public Workshop on December 3rd and a regular meeting on December 4th, 2025, addressing a wide array of critical issues for the Village of Ridgewood. A central focus of both sessions was the environmental remediation of the Shedler property. While Matrix New World Engineering presented excavation and disposal as the most protective remedy, numerous residents voiced strong opposition, advocating for bioremediation and expressing concerns about tree removal, post-remediation testing, and potential health impacts. Council members, including Mayor Paul Vagianos and Council Member Keith Camarck, defended the NJDEP-approved plan, emphasizing expert recommendations and upfront testing protocols. Beyond the Shedler property, the council tackled numerous operational and infrastructure matters. Discussions included proposed changes to train station parking to prioritize commuters, the implementation of a new midblock crosswalk on East Ridgewood Avenue, and significant upgrades and contract approvals for Ridgewood Water, covering everything from laboratory analysis to security enhancements and loan approvals. Public safety was also a key theme, with a substantial debate surrounding barrier fencing for the Hudson Street garage to prevent potential tragedies, balancing safety with aesthetic considerations. The council also addressed sanitation, including solid waste disposal bids and an emergency sanitary sewer line repair, alongside environmental services for abandoned fuel storage tanks. Financial management and community programs were also prominent. The council approved appropriation transfers, accepted a grant for a hearing loop system, and discussed the allocation of opioid abatement funds for educational and harm reduction initiatives. Public comments highlighted resident engagement on issues ranging from council decorum and village code to the specifics of remediation plans and safety measures. The meetings underscored the council's commitment to addressing environmental concerns, maintaining essential services, enhancing public safety, and managing the village's financial health.

The Village Council of Ridgewood held a Special Public Budget Meeting on January 21-22, 2026, to review and discuss departmental budget proposals for the upcoming fiscal year. The meeting began with public comments, including a resident's request for increased funding for trees and another's plea for clearer budget presentations. Departmental presentations covered a wide range of services, from Public Health and Animal Control to the Tax Assessor, Building Department, and MIS. Key discussions included the significant costs associated with a state-mandated tax reassessment, the need for additional staffing in the Building Department to meet inspection timelines, and the rising expenses for IT infrastructure and software licensing. The Public Library presented its budget, highlighting its statutory funding, revenue generation efforts, and community services. Later sessions focused on the budgets for the Police and Fire Departments, addressing staffing, new contracts, operational needs, and crucial capital requests for equipment and vehicles. The Village Clerk's office and elections budget also underwent review, with attention given to technology adoption, such as AI for minute preparation, and changes in legal advertising requirements. Throughout the two-day meeting, council members actively engaged with department heads, seeking clarification on budget line items, questioning increases, and exploring potential cost-saving measures. The council emphasized the importance of fiscal responsibility while ensuring essential services are maintained and capital improvement needs are met. Discussions also touched upon the village's healthcare plan and its impact on employees and the municipality. The meeting concluded with the adjournment of the council after a thorough review of the presented budgets and a preview of upcoming agenda items.