Regular Council Meeting

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.