Ridgewood, New Jersey

Planning Board

The Ridgewood Planning Board will review proposed Ordinance #4099, which amends Chapter 190 (Land Use and Development) to modify conditional use standards for institutional uses. The meeting also includes public comment, committee updates, and adoption of May 5, 2026 minutes.

• Review of Ordinance #4099 – amending Section 190-123(B) on conditional use standards for institutional uses
• Public comments on topics not pending before the board
• Adoption of minutes from May 5, 2026
• Possible executive session

Village Council Meeting

The Ridgewood Village Council holds a special public meeting. After a call to order, a statement of compliance, roll call, and brief public comments, the council will vote on a resolution to go into a closed session. The closed session will address personnel matters for boards and committees and legal issues concerning the Special Improvement District and the Ridgewood Business Alliance. The meeting will then be adjourned.

• Call to Order
• Statement of compliance with the Open Public Meeting Act
• Public comments (max 3 minutes per person)
• Resolution to go into Closed Session
• Closed Session agenda: Personnel – Boards and Committees; Legal – Special Improvement District / Ridgewood Business Alliance

Village Council Meeting

The Ridgewood Village Council met on July 8, 2026 via Zoom and telephone. The agenda included multiple water‑related actions such as contracts for SCADA programming, distribution main improvements, and a Water Capital Bond Ordinance for storage‑tank renovations and corrosion control. The council also considered parking ordinance amendments, grant‑funded road resurfacing contracts, and policy changes to parking, power‑tool use, and snow removal. Additional items covered grant applications, a housing‑affordable agent appointment, and a fire‑prevention agreement with Midland Park.

• Award Sole Source Contract – SCADA System – Programming, Wiring and Startup Services
• Water Capital Bond Ordinance – Storage Tank Renovations/Replacements and Corrosion Control Treatments
• Amend Chapter 265 – Vehicles and Traffic – Parking at Pease Library
• Award Contract – NJDOT Grant – South Pleasant Avenue Resurfacing – Phase 2
• Authorize Execution of Agreement with Midland Park – Fire Prevention Enforcement – Kuiken Enterprises, Inc.

Open Space Committee

The Open Space Committee will finalize guiding principles for acquiring open space and a funding allocation approach. They will also discuss park stewardship, July events, and potential acquisition properties. The meeting includes public comment and liaison reports.

• Finalize guiding principles for open space acquisition
• Finalize funding allocation approach
• Discussion of potential acquisition properties and criteria implementation
• Park stewardship and July events update
• Vision for future and RMX document review

Community Center Advisory Board

The Community Center Advisory Board will vote on May meeting minutes and treasurer reports, then hear a presentation on Community Center improvements with an expanded budget, joined by the Parks & Recreation Director and Village Manager. The board will also discuss recreation program locations during construction and debrief a recent fundraiser.

• Vote to approve May minutes and treasurer reports for CCORF and Taub Foundation
• Community Center Improvement presentation with expanded budget details
• Discussion of recreation program location possibilities during construction period
• Fundraiser debrief: profits, expenses, net proceeds, next steps
• Technology items: Go Daddy renewal, 4agoodcause renewal, potential switch from TSYS to Fiserv

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council is holding a special public meeting that will feature public comment followed by a closed session to discuss personnel appointments to various boards and committees. No other substantive business is on the agenda.

• Closed session for personnel appointments to boards and committees

Village Council Meeting

The Ridgewood Village Council will adopt several resolutions authorizing grants and agreements. Items include accepting a $10,000 Keep America Beautiful grant, a temporary use agreement for 20 East Ridgewood Avenue on July 4, and renewing participation in community development, HOME investment, and emergency solutions grant programs. The council will also appoint David T. Pfund as Municipal Court Judge for a term from July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2029.

• Resolution 26-182 – Accept $10,000 grant from Keep America Beautiful for cigar litter prevention and recycling
• Resolution 26-183 – Authorize temporary use of 20 East Ridgewood Avenue on July 4 by the Ridgewood Access Committee
• Resolution 26-184 – Renew participation in Community Development Block Grant, HOME Investment Partnership, and Emergency Solutions Grant programs (July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2028)
• Resolution 26-185 – Renew participation in the same grant programs for fiscal years 2025, 2026, and 2027
• Resolution 26-186 – Appoint Municipal Court Judge David T. Pfund (term 7/1/2026 – 6/30/2029)

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will hold a public workshop to discuss and authorize multiple budget and operations items, including professional services contracts for water hydraulic modeling and energy consulting, vehicle purchases, a social worker contract, and a procurement card pilot program. The meeting also includes a special public meeting with a separate agenda, followed by a closed session for legal discussions on special assessments, hospital tax appeals, and the Schedler property.

• Accept Grant – Keep America Beautiful Cigarette Litter Prevention and Recycling Program
• Authorize Temporary Use Agreement – 20 East Ridgewood Avenue by ACCESS Committee on July 4th
• Award Professional Services Contract – Hydraulic Modeling for Ridgewood Water
• Award Contract – Furnishing and Delivering Crossing Guard Services
• Authorize Implementation of Procurement Card (P-Card) Pilot Program

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Ridgewood Zoning Board of Adjustment will hear a continued application from West Side Presbyterian Church for preliminary and final major site plan approval, a use variance, and several related variances to expand the existing barn and add site improvements at 6 South Monroe Street. The board will also discuss a request to extend variance approval for a property at 314 Wastena Terrace. The meeting includes public hearings and board member comments.

• West Side Presbyterian Church application for major site plan and multiple variances at 6 South Monroe Street (continued from April 28)
• Use variance and conditional use variance for expansion of a preexisting nonconforming use
• Floor area ratio variance and related variances for barn addition, bioretention basin, forecourt, labyrinth, and parking lot improvements
• Discussion of request for extension of variance approval for Hoag at 314 Wastena Terrace

Shade Tree Commission

The Ridgewood Shade Tree Commission will approve minutes from the May 12 meeting, receive updates from co-chairs and the Council liaison, and hear a forestry presentation. They will also discuss a proposal to add regular social media posts about street tree replacement requests and tips.

• Approval of minutes from May 12 meeting
• Forestry presentation
• High School Green Team progress report
• Proposal for monthly social media posts on street tree replacement requests and tips

Parks, Recreation & Conservation Board

The Parks, Recreation and Conservation Board will hold a reorganization meeting and discuss a proposed prohibition on e-bikes in parks. The board will also review the indoor Village facility use/fee schedule, receive updates on completed and upcoming spring/summer projects, and accept the resignation of board member Kate Heighington.

• Discussion on prohibiting e-bikes in parks (new business)
• Indoor Village facility use/fee schedule review
• Skatepark resurfacing at Maple Park scheduled for July 20, 2026
• Premier Community Center design update (July 6, 2026)
• Resignation of board member Kate Heighington

Historic Preservation Commission

The Ridgewood Historic Preservation Commission holds a special public meeting to review three applications for exterior alterations and discuss a master plan recommendation to expand the Village Center Historic District zoning district.

• Milkshake Factory, 63 East Ridgewood Avenue – exterior paint review
• Grill & Greens, 36 Prospect Street – sign and awning fabric change review
• Poppy Bakery, 26 Chestnut Street – sign review
• Discussion of Master Plan Recommendation HP-6 on expanding the Village Center Historic District
• Roll call of commissioners: Ferrante, Tsapatsaris, Summerville, Brady, Giuliani, Latham, Paredes, Fuhrman

Citizens Safety Advisory Committee

The Citizens Safety Advisory Committee will hear public comments and receive updates on e-bikes, sight triangle obstructions, and incident reporting. New business includes discussing speeding on Bellair Road and traffic concerns on Hopper Avenue, Grove Street, and Prospect Street. The meeting also covers social media outreach and the PSE&G right-of-way path update.

• E-bikes updates from Ridgewood Police Department
• Sight triangle obstruction locations update from Engineering
• Incident/Accident reporting update from RPD
• Speeding on Bellair Road (West End Ave/Bellair Road area)
• Traffic issues on Hopper Ave, Grove and Prospect Streets

The Ridgewood Citizens Safety Advisory Committee met on June 18, 2026, but took no formal votes or substantive decisions. Discussions covered traffic safety proposals on West End Avenue, e-bike enforcement, sight triangle obstruction compliance, and an engineering update including Maple Avenue paving tentatively scheduled for mid-July. Accident reports showed 71 total accidents in May 2026 compared to 67 in May 2025.

Planning Board

The Ridgewood Planning Board has canceled its public meeting and work session scheduled for June 16, 2026. The next regular meeting is set for July 7, 2026.

• Meeting canceled; no business conducted

Ridgewood Arts Council

The Ridgewood Arts Council will review recent events and discuss the purchase request for the artwork "Sabina" by Janice McDonald for the Older Americans Art Exhibit. The council will also consider upcoming community events and calendar items, and address organizational matters such as reorganization, a new chair, and grant seeking. The meeting will conclude with a schedule for the next meeting in September.

• Purchase request for "Sabina" artwork by Janice McDonald (Barbara Monginello, 201-2949654)
• Discussion of Pride Event planning
• Reorganization and transition documentation
• Selection of new chair for the council
• Grant seeking discussion for arts programs

The Ridgewood Arts Council held its June 15th meeting, electing Gloria Holmes as the new chair as part of reorganization. The council tabled grant discussion until the fall and set a preliminary calendar for 2026–2027, including the Chalk Festival and a decision to skip the Older Americans Art Exhibit this year. Members also discussed the Pride event and ways to increase membership.

• Elected Gloria Holmes as new chair
• Tabled grant discussion until fall
• Skipped Older Americans Art Exhibit this year
• Set preliminary event calendar including Chalk Festival (Sep 26), Oktoberfest (TBD), Jazz Coffee House (Nov), Downtown for the Holidays (Dec), Valentine's Cookie Decorating Contest (Feb), Children in the Arts (Mar), Fringe Festival (Apr), and Artist Talk folded into Fringe
• Scheduled meeting dates for 2026–2027 from Sep 14, 2026 to Jun 14, 2027
• Decided to make Older Americans Art Exhibit forms electronic and collect artist permissions for email addresses

Central Business District Advisory Committee

The Central Business District Advisory Committee will approve minutes from May 14 and receive updates from village council, chamber of commerce, and other liaisons. The main discussion topics include code enforcement in the CBD with guest speaker Sharon Grathwohl, next steps for the Parkmobile/Arrive parking system, a parking survey update from Walker Associates, and wayfinding. Miscellaneous items cover bike valet parking, new and outgoing businesses, and the Franklin Avenue corridor.

• Approve minutes from May 14, 2026 CBDAC meeting
• Code enforcement discussion with Village Code Enforcer Sharon Grathwohl
• Parkmobile/Arrive discussion and next steps with SDP
• Walker Associates parking survey update and next steps with Pam
• Wayfinding in the CBD – next steps with Gary

Village Council Meeting

This is a special public meeting of the Ridgewood Village Council. The agenda contains only procedural items: call to order, roll call, public comments, and discussion of the agenda and other village business. No ordinances, resolutions, contracts, or public hearings are listed for action or discussion.

• Meeting is procedural only; no specific action items on the agenda

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will introduce ordinances including a $1.5 million special emergency appropriation for real property reassessment costs, fee increases for land use and soil removal, and standardization of elevator fire service keys. Public hearings are scheduled for administrative police fees and athletic field fees. A consent agenda includes contracts for a Ford F-350, a dump truck, a water rate study, and an emergency valve replacement.

• Introduced: Special Emergency Appropriation for Reassessment Costs (NTE $1,500,000)
• Introduced: Amend Chapter 190 to allow multiple institutional uses and expanded accessory uses for Houses of Worship
• Introduced: Standardization of Elevator Fire Service Key to Yale 3502, with 18-month compliance period
• Consent: Award contract for 2027 Dump Truck (NTE $149,795.40) to Gabrielli Truck Sales
• Consent: Award emergency contract for replacement of 20-inch valve at Northern Parkway (NTE $109,000) to Conquest Construction

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on four applications seeking variances for lot coverage, setbacks, and improvements on residential properties. The board will also consider resolution memorialization for three previously decided matters.

• Dr. Patrick Higgins – variance for existing detached garage at 618 Frederick Street (R-2 Zone)
• Robert & Mary Basso – variances for addition and portico at 913 East Ridgewood Avenue (R-1 Zone)
• Neilesh Sikder & Nisha Mital – variances for new single-family dwelling at 230 California Street (R-1 Zone)
• Meghan Tozzi & Tad Ahlersmeyer – variances for second-floor addition at 319 Steilen Avenue (R-2 Zone)
• Resolution memorialization for three prior applications: Moonlight Mile, LLC; Sofia; Ryoo

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will hear a presentation from the Ridgewood Business Alliance's attorney explaining special assessments, then hold a public hearing to accept objections to those assessments. This is the main substantive item on the agenda, followed by general public comment and adjournment.

• Presentation by attorney for Ridgewood Business Alliance on special assessments
• Public hearing for objections to Ridgewood Business Alliance special assessments

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will review five applications for signs and exterior paint at commercial properties and a residence addition at 252 Lincoln Avenue. They will also discuss a Master Plan recommendation to expand the Village Center Historic District zoning district. The meeting includes adoption of minutes from May 11.

• Milkshake Factory, 63 East Ridgewood Avenue – sign and exterior paint review
• Gino's Deli, 285 East Glen Avenue – sign and exterior paint review
• Kiyak Residence, 252 Lincoln Avenue – proposed addition and renovations
• Aaron's Ridgewood, 10 Van Neste Square – proposed window sign
• Angelo Rivera Couture, 25-29 West Ridgewood Avenue – proposed blade sign

Ridgewood's Access Committee

This meeting covers routine reports from the president, executive board, village council, and school liaison, along with updates on upcoming events like the Fire Department Touch-a-Truck & BBQ and sensory-friendly dinners. Old business includes planning for the 4th of July, while new business sets the next meeting date as TBD. The agenda is largely procedural with no major decisions or votes scheduled.

• Touch-a-Truck & BBQ with Fire Department
• Sensory-Friendly Dinners program update
• 4th of July event planning discussion

Open Space Committee

The Ridgewood Open Space Committee will finalize guiding principles for open space acquisition, discuss funding allocation, and identify potential properties. The committee will also receive park stewardship updates including June events and liaison reports. Public comment is open for 3 minutes per person up to 30 minutes total.

• Finalize guiding principles for open space acquisition
• Discuss funding allocation approach for acquisitions
• Identify potential properties for acquisition
• Park stewardship report and June events update
• Public comment period (up to 30 minutes)

Green Ridgewood

The Green Ridgewood committee will review a leaf blower strategy including a trial for Parks & Rec, discuss expanding food scraps collection, and consider applying for a NJ Climate Resiliency Planning Grant. Also on the agenda are updates on Project 1,000 acres, a potential Columbia University climate preparedness study, and a student report on turf vs. grass fields. The committee will also review a 2026 revenue/expense pro-forma.

• Leaf blower trial for Parks & Rec as part of a broader strategy
• Food scraps collection expansion
• Skip the Stuff public outreach campaign
• Project 1,000 acres update
• NJ Climate Resiliency Planning Grant application with Saddle River Watershed Alliance

Village Council Meeting

The Ridgewood Village Council will hold a public workshop to hear a presentation on the final park design for the Schedler Property, discuss declaring Ridgewood Water property surplus, and consider several contract awards including a concession stand at the train station and SDL Software. They will also discuss a special emergency appropriation for property reassessment, support for health benefit premium reforms, and other operational items such as liquor license renewals and a deer survey.

• Presentation of final park design for Schedler Property for submission to SHPO
• Declaring Ridgewood Water property surplus
• Award contract for concession stand at train station
• Special Emergency Appropriation for Reassessment
• Northwest Bergen County Deer Survey

Village Council Meeting

The Ridgewood Village Council will conduct a standard meeting, beginning with a call to order and a statement of compliance with the Open Public Meeting Act. Council members will take roll call, allow brief public comments (up to three minutes per speaker), and then vote on a resolution to enter a closed session. The meeting will conclude with a closed session and adjournment.

• Call to Order
• Statement of Compliance with Open Public Meeting Act
• Public Comments (max 3 minutes per person)
• Resolution to go into Closed Session
• Closed Session

Planning Board

The Ridgewood Planning Board has canceled its public meeting and work session scheduled for June 2, 2026. The next regular meeting will be held on June 16, 2026 at 7:30 p.m.

• The June 2, 2026 Planning Board meeting is canceled

Fields Committee

The Ridgewood Fields Working Group will hold a final adoption vote on the Fields and Recreational Facility Policy. They will also discuss ADA compliance communication flyers, review 2026 fall schedules opening June 3, and hear updates on field restoration at Veterans Field and scoreboard installation at Maple Park. Summer special events and facility maintenance requests are on the agenda.

• Final adoption of Fields and Recreational Facility Policy (Item III)
• 2026 Fall Schedules open June 3 (Item IV)
• ADA Compliance Communication Flyers update (Item V)
• Summer Special Events: Maroons Tournament, Youth Football Camp, RBSA Softball Camp, etc. (Item VI)
• Projects: Veterans Field restoration, Maple Park scoreboard installation, RHS Tennis Court restoration (Item VIII)

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will hold a public workshop to discuss a range of items including water utility contracts, a special emergency appropriation for reassessment, and amendments to fee schedules and land-use regulations. Notable policy discussions include proposed changes to accessory uses for houses of worship and amendments to taxicab and limousine ordinances. No final votes are scheduled; the meeting is for discussion and public comment.

• Award contract under State Contract for a 2026 Ford F-350 (Ridgewood Water)
• Award contract under Sourcewell Cooperative Purchasing for a 2027 dump truck (Ridgewood Water)
• Authorize emergency contract for replacement of a 20-inch valve at Northern Parkway (Ridgewood Water)
• Special Emergency Appropriation for reassessment (Budget item)
• Amend Chapter 190 – Land Use and Development – Accessory Uses for Houses of Worship (Policy)

Residential Flood Advisory Committee

The Residential Flood Advisory Committee will discuss flood issues in the Warren & Marshall neighborhood, a partnership with the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), and an update on Village flood mitigation efforts including capital budget and FEMA funding. The committee will also consider a multi-town flood resiliency grant with Bergen County and approve meeting minutes from March 25, 2026.

• Approval of meeting minutes from March 25, 2026
• Discussion of flooding issues in the Warren & Marshall neighborhood
• Partnership with New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT)
• Update on Village flood mitigation efforts – capital budget and FEMA funding
• Flood Resiliency Grant – multi-town collaboration with Bergen County

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on three applications. Chestnut VD Holdings LLC seeks preliminary/final site plan approval, use and bulk variances, and soil moving approval to reconfigure and expand the parking lot and make other site improvements at the existing nursing home. Also scheduled are applications for residential additions requiring multiple bulk and coverage variances at 321 Pearsall Avenue and 101 California Street, and a discussion of proposed sign colors for Moonlight Mile, LLC.

• Chestnut VD Holdings LLC: site plan, use variance, bulk variance, and soil moving for nursing home parking lot reconfiguration at 304 South Van Dien Avenue (R-125 Zone)
• Salvatore & Joanne Sofia: rear addition resulting in above-grade coverage of 20.66% (20% max) at 321 Pearsall Avenue (R-2 Zone)
• Anne Ryoo: two-story addition requiring variances for side yard setback (13.1 ft vs 20.67 ft required), coverage, improvements, and gross building area at 101 California Street (R-1 Zone)
• Discussion of color scheme for proposed signs at Moonlight Mile, LLC, 51 North Broad Street
• Resolution memorialization for Qua (362 Crest Road) and Kokulak (463 South Pleasant Avenue)

Citizens Safety Advisory Committee

The Ridgewood Citizens Safety Advisory Committee will review updates on e‑bikes, sight‑triangle obstructions, incident reporting, social‑media use, the CBDAC, and two intersection studies. New business includes a discussion of the PSE &G Right‑of‑Way Path. The meeting ends with scheduling the next session for June 18, 2026.

• E‑bike updates (RPD)
• Sight‑triangle obstruction locations updates (Engineering)
• Incident/accident reporting updates (RPD)
• Doremus and Ackerman intersection study (Engineering, RPD)
• PSE &G Right‑of‑Way Path discussion (Engineering, RPD)

The Citizens Safety Advisory Committee met on May 21, 2026, and discussed several safety-related items. No formal decisions or votes were taken; the meeting was primarily informational and advisory. Key topics included PSE&G right-of-way concerns on Irving Street, e-bike education pending state guidance, sight triangle compliance updates, and a decrease in April 2026 collisions compared to 2025.

• Discussed PSE&G right-of-way concerns; village to evaluate safe pedestrian route between East Ridgewood Avenue and North Irving Street
• RPD continues e-bike education and social media campaigns pending state guidance
• Engineering reported four additional properties brought into compliance for sight triangle obstructions; four new notices sent
• RPD shared April 2026 collision totals (51) compared to April 2025 (64), with injuries down from 11 to 4
• Demarest/Ackerman signal timing adjustments improved traffic flow; Oak/Glen traffic engineering study authorized
• Heard public comments on Irving Street neighborhood impacts and pedestrian safety
• CBDAC reported approval of outdoor display ordinance and senior parking program
• Committee discussed naming convention for e-bikes vs. e-motos

Planning Board

The Ridgewood Planning Board's May 19, 2026 public meeting and work session has been canceled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for June 2, 2026 at 7:30 p.m. in the Village Hall Courtroom.

Ridgewood's Access Committee

The Access Committee will hold its regular meeting, reviewing minutes and receiving reports from the President, Executive Board, Village Council, SEPAG/Schools, and Village departments. Old business includes planning for the 4th of July celebration, while new business covers a Fire Department Touch-a-Truck & BBQ event. The next meeting is scheduled for June 12, 2026 via Zoom.

• Approval of minutes from previous meeting
• Sensory-Friendly Dinners update from Executive Board
• SEPAG/Schools report on accessibility in education
• 4th of July event planning (Cara Robinson-Deutsch)
• Fire Department Touch-a-Truck & BBQ event discussion

The Access Committee approved the previous meeting's minutes and discussed several upcoming events, including sensory-friendly dinners, July 4th accessible viewing, and a Touch-a-Truck event. No binding decisions were made beyond approving minutes; most items were planning updates and agreements to improve logistics.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to hold separate meeting in fall to brainstorm RSVP improvements for sensory-friendly dinners
• Decided to use SignUpGenius for Touch-a-Truck with 100-person cap
• Agreed to pilot July 4th accessible parade viewing event as small, word-of-mouth event
• Scheduled next meeting for June 5 or June 12, depending on availability

Open Space Committee

The Ridgewood Open Space Committee will hold a regular meeting on May 14, 2026, with public comment, approval of prior minutes, and liaison reports. Major discussion items include a recap of recent park stewardship events (Dunham, Daffodil, Habernickel Trail Workshop) and a draft framework and guiding principles for the Open Space Fund, along with a broader vision for the future.

• Recap of Dunham and Daffodil Events
• Habernickel Trail Workshop recap
• May events overview
• Draft framework and guiding principles for Open Space Fund
• Vision for Future discussion

Central Business District Advisory Committee

The Central Business District Advisory Committee will receive updates from the Village Council, Chamber of Commerce, Guild, Business Alliance, CSAC, and Beautification Initiatives. Key discussions include evaluating the Walker Parking Survey, promoting the new 'Skip the Stuff' state law to reduce single-use plastics, and reviewing next steps for a CBD wayfinding presentation. Public comment will be taken.

• Review of April 9, 2026 meeting minutes
• Updates from Village Council, Chamber of Commerce, Ridgewood Guild, Business Alliance, CSAC, and CBD Beautification Initiatives
• Discussion of Walker Parking Survey effectiveness
• Promoting the new 'Skip the Stuff' state law
• Wayfinding in the CBD presentation and next steps

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will vote to adopt the 2026 budget for Ridgewood after amending current fund, water capital, and open space trust fund budgets. They will also introduce ordinances to increase the Police Department outside job admin fee to $30 and establish athletic field user fees. A public hearing will be held on allowing sidewalk displays in the Central Business District. Numerous contracts will be awarded, including up to $1.5 million for road resurfacing and a $433,333 change order for lead service line replacements.

• Adopt 2026 Village budget (Resolution 26-125)
• Approve up to $1.5M road resurfacing contract to Smith-Sondy Asphalt Construction
• Introduce ordinance increasing Police Department outside job admin fee from $20 to $30
• Authorize change order up to $433,333 for lead service line replacements (Reivax Contracting)
• Public hearing on ordinance 4096 to allow sidewalk displays in Central Business District

Village Council Meeting

This is a special public meeting of the Village Council with time for public comments (3 minutes per person) and discussion of the day's agenda and other council business. The agenda contains no ordinances, resolutions, contracts, or public hearings; it is largely procedural.

• Public comment period limited to 3 minutes per person
• Discussion of unspecified Village Council business

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Ridgewood Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on five applications seeking variances for property additions, garage retention, and setback reductions. The board will also discuss a sign color scheme for Moonlight Mile, LLC and memorialize two prior resolutions.

• Dr. Patrick Higgins seeks to retain a detached garage at 618 Frederick Street with 21.5% lot coverage (20% max) and insufficient side yard setback for Bilco steps.
• Noah & Theresa Qua request variances for a 17.2-foot side yard setback (21.66 required) and a 7.5-foot patio side yard (10 required) at 362 Crest Road.
• Brian & Samantha Kokulak propose a second-floor addition and covered porch at 463 South Pleasant Avenue, requiring a 9.1-foot side yard setback (10 required).
• John & Shinae Shin seek a rear addition at 330 Abbey Court with 21.5-foot rear setback (30 required) and 23.34% lot coverage (20% max).
• Matthew & Maggie Geudtner request multiple variances for a two-story addition at 552 Hillcrest Road, including a 34.7-foot front setback (40 required).

Shade Tree Commission

The Ridgewood Shade Tree Commission will meet to approve minutes from April and receive updates from co-chairs, the council liaison, and forestry staff. They will also discuss the 1000 tree initiative and the High School Green Team's progress. The commission will consider adding monthly social media posts about street tree replacement and other topics.

• Approval of minutes from April 14 meeting
• Forestry update on tree maintenance and planting
• Update on the 1000 tree initiative
• High School Green Team progress report
• Public comment limited to 3 minutes

The Commission approved the April meeting minutes. Discussions included the Daffodil Fest, school property planting agreements, and a street tree watering bid that received no satisfactory responses.

• Approved April meeting minutes

Ridgewood Arts Council

The Ridgewood Arts Council will discuss logistics for the Older Americans Art Exhibit, including labels, reception, and refreshments. They will also plan the Pride event on June 6 with bands and a flag raising, and address reorganization of council membership and selection of chair/co-chair for the next year.

• Older Americans Art Exhibit reception and refreshments (50 water bottles)
• Mallory Mortillaro lecture on American Landscape Paintings on May 16
• Pride Event on June 6 with bands (Marc's and Elie's) and flag raising
• Discussion on 'light' membership and project-based proposal
• Selection of chair/co-chair for next year

The council reviewed upcoming events, including the Older Americans Art Exhibit, a Mallory Mortillaro lecture on American Landscape Paintings on May 16, and a Pride Event on June 6. They noted a need for an artist to decorate the lobby in January/February and discussed a “light” membership structure and project‑based proposals. No formal approvals, denials, or votes were recorded.

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will hold a public meeting to review five applications for exterior alterations to historic properties, including additions, renovations, and signage. The commission will also discuss a proposed ordinance regulating sidewalk displays. No final votes are scheduled on the ordinance at this meeting.

• Kiyak Residence, 252 Lincoln Avenue – proposed addition and renovations
• Connect One Bank, 171 East Ridgewood Avenue – exterior paint and new signage
• Jennee, 235 West Ridgewood Avenue – addition and new garage
• Unitarian Society of Ridgewood, 113 Cottage Place – freestanding sign
• True Ascend, 11 South Broad Street – signage

Green Ridgewood

The Green Ridgewood advisory committee will meet to review updates on a NJ Climate Resiliency Planning Grant application with the Saddle River Watershed Alliance and discuss a leaf blower strategy for municipal fleets. Members will also consider a potential new study with Columbia University, review Earth Day Fair results, and examine a pro-forma 2026 budget for the committee.

• Saddle River Watershed Alliance / NJ Climate Resiliency Planning Grant – follow-up with seven communities, new grant application, and discussions with Bergen County
• Resource Management & Conservation Subcommittee: leaf blower strategy moving forward, municipal fleet conversion, and Advocates for Transforming Landscaping
• Potential new Columbia University study (Alina) – discussion of scope and collaboration
• Food scraps collection – Earth Day success and expansion plans
• Finance pro-forma 2026 revenues and expenses (Jane, David)

The council unanimously approved the minutes from the April 9 2026 meeting. Future meeting dates were set for June 4, July 9, and September 3, 2026. No other substantive approvals, denials, or tablings were recorded in this session.

• Approved April 9 2026 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Scheduled future meetings for June 4, July 9, and September 3 2026

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will hold a public workshop to discuss and potentially act on a range of items including establishing a senior parking program in the Central Business District, awarding several contracts for vehicles and services, and amending fees for police department outside jobs and athletic field use. They will also receive an annual update from Green Ridgewood and consider a liquor license transfer.

• Establish senior parking program in Central Business District
• Award contract under State Contract for Ford Maverick Hybrid pickup truck (Clean Communities Program)
• Award contract for paving
• Amend Chapter 145 Fees for police department outside jobs
• Authorize transfer of liquor license from PRM Liquor to Lucky Family Liquor

Village Council Meeting

This is a special public meeting of the Ridgewood Village Council. The agenda is largely procedural, with the only substantive item being a closed session to discuss personnel appointments to boards and committees. No votes or public decisions are scheduled.

• Resolution to enter closed session for personnel – appointments to boards and committees

Planning Board

The Ridgewood Planning Board will discuss the Zoning Board of Adjustment's 2025 Annual Report and review proposed Ordinance #4096, which would establish a new chapter titled 'Sidewalk Displays.' The board will also hear public comments on topics not pending before the board, receive professional updates, and consider adopting minutes from March 17, 2026.

• Discussion of Zoning Board of Adjustment 2025 Annual Report
• Review of proposed Ordinance #4096 establishing a 'Sidewalk Displays' chapter
• Public comments on topics not pending before the board
• Adoption of minutes from March 17, 2026
• Possible executive session

Fields Committee

This meeting includes final adoption of a Fields and Recreational Facility Policy, discussion of 2026 summer schedules for various sports organizations, and updates on projects including field restoration at Veterans Field, scoreboard installation at Maple Park, and RHS tennis court restoration. Additionally, there will be discussion of FIFA World Cup watch parties and fanfest events.

• Final adoption of Fields and Recreational Facility Policy (K. Kazmark & M. Schwarz)
• 2026 summer schedules deadline for varsity sports, youth organizations, special events
• Veterans Field restoration project
• Scoreboard installation at Maple Park
• FIFA World Cup watch party (June 12, Memorial Park/Van Neste Square) and fanfest (June 19, Vets Field)

The Fields Working Group adopted the final Fields Recreational Facility Policy, which had already been approved by the Village Council and Board of Education and posted on both agency websites. The group also approved the March 3, 2026 meeting minutes and unanimously passed a motion to adjourn. The Village Council resolution to apply for a grant to improve Upper Citizens Field was noted, and soil remediation work at Schedler began.

• Adopted Fields Recreational Facility Policy (final adoption)
• Approved March 3, 2026 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Motion to adjourn approved by all members
• Village Council resolution to apply for grant for Upper Citizens Field passed

Community Center Advisory Board

The Ridgewood Community Center Advisory Board will discuss updates on a proposal and contract for community center improvements, approve changes to by-laws, and review fundraising efforts. The board will also hear committee reports and plan upcoming events, including a Lunch and Learn on identity theft protection.

• Community Center Improvement Updates on Proposal and Contract
• Approve Changes to by-laws for CCAB and Foundation Board
• Donor Letter Update from Joanne
• Renewal of GoDaddy (June 12) and 4agoodcause (May 20) subscriptions
• Next Lunch and Learn on May 12: 'Protecting Your Identity Online' by Sheila Brogan

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Zoning Board will hold a public hearing on West Side Presbyterian Church's application for preliminary and final major site plan approval, a use variance, and related variances to rehabilitate and expand the existing barn, add a bioretention basin, forecourt, labyrinth, and parking improvements at 6 South Monroe Street. The board will also memorialize resolutions for four previous applications: Zumbolo, Passaro, Lair/Atwater, and Jeffrey. The meeting enforces an 11:00 PM curfew with no new matters after 10:30 PM.

• West Side Presbyterian Church – preliminary and final major site plan, use variance, expansion of nonconforming use, floor area ratio variance at 6 South Monroe Street (Block 2404, Lot 3 and Block 2403, Lot 17.01) in R-110 Zone
• Resolution memorialization for Zumbolo, 55 Valley View Avenue
• Resolution memorialization for Passaro, 349 Carlton Terrace
• Resolution memorialization for Lair/Atwater, 626 Wyndemere Avenue
• Resolution memorialization for Jeffrey, 126 Linden Street

Parks, Recreation & Conservation Board

The Parks, Recreation & Conservation Board will hold its reorganization meeting and consider final adoption of the Fields and Recreational Facility Use Policy. Other agenda items include reports from liaisons, updates on park events and projects, and review of the Memorial Tree/Bench Program and Slow Mow May initiative. Public comment is available.

• Final adoption of Fields and Recreational Facility Use Policy
• Review of Memorial Tree/Bench Program
• Discussion of Slow Mow May initiative
• Rain Garden Projects at Veterans Field, Graydon Pool, and Habernickel Park (May 2, 2026)
• Upcoming projects: Sun Shades at Graydon Pool, Kings Pond Park playground and pavilion, Skatepark resurfacing at Maple Park

The Ridgewood Parks, Recreation & Conservation Board approved the March 2026 meeting minutes. The approval was made by motions from L. Kloak and a second motion from J. Buckley, with all members voting in favor. No other formal actions or votes were recorded at this meeting.

• Approved March 2026 board minutes (unanimous)

Village Council Meeting

The Ridgewood Village Council will hold public hearings on two grant applications: a $67,320 matching grant to renovate Upper Field at Citizens Park and a $541,880 matching grant to restore the pedestrian tunnel at the Ridgewood Train Station. The council will also consider a bond ordinance for up to $4,000,000 to fund PFAS treatment plants for the village water system and an ordinance to permit sidewalk displays in the central business district. Additional items include appointing a member to the Open Space Committee and awarding a contract for a taxistand at the train station.

• Application for Bergen County Open Space Trust Fund grant (up to $67,320) to renovate Upper Field at Citizens Park
• Application for Bergen County Historic Preservation Trust Fund grant (up to $541,880) to restore the pedestrian tunnel at Ridgewood Train Station
• Ordinance 4095 – Bond supplemental appropriation (NTE $4,000,000) for PFAS treatment plants
• Ordinance 4096 – Permit sidewalk displays in the Central Business District
• Award contract for taxistand at Ridgewood Train Station (up to $510/month plus $1,300 parking, $7,420 annual total)

The Village Council approved two grant applications to Bergen County for park and infrastructure restorations. The council also held a public hearing on a proposed sidewalk display ordinance and a bond ordinance for PFAS treatment plants.

• Approved $67,320 grant application for Citizens Park Upper Field renovation (4-0)
• Approved $541,880 grant application for Ridgewood Train Station pedestrian tunnel restoration (4-0)

Village Council Meeting

This public workshop meeting of the Ridgewood Village Council includes discussion of a proposed ordinance regulating sidewalk displays in the Central Business District and decisions on three contract awards: disposal of ground yardwaste and clippings, a sign truck for the Signal Department via NJ Cooperative Purchasing, and a street sweeper for the Streets Department via Sourcewell Cooperative Purchasing. Public comments are taken at two points in the meeting. A special public meeting follows the work session with a separate agenda not detailed here.

• Discussion of Sidewalk Displays in Central Business District Ordinance
• Award contract for disposal of ground yardwaste and ground clippings
• Award contract under NJ Cooperative Purchasing Program for a sign truck for Signal Department
• Award contract under Sourcewell Cooperative Purchasing Program for a street sweeper for Streets Department

The Village Council heard public comments and received a report from the Village Manager on soil remediation work at the Schedler property and upcoming stormwater pipe inspections. Additional announcements covered yard waste collection, irrigation schedules, upcoming festivals, and other community events. No formal motions, approvals, denials, or votes were recorded during this session.

Stigma-Free Committee

The Ridgewood Stigma-Free Committee will approve minutes, recap the March 26 blood drive with 35 donors, receive a Village Council report, and discuss a collaboration with West Bergen Mental Healthcare for May 2026. They will also review upcoming events including suicide intervention training and a caregiving program.

• Approval of minutes from previous meeting
• Recap of The Gary Letizia Blood Drive (35 successful donors)
• Village Council report from Siobhan Winograd
• Discussion of collaboration with West Bergen Mental Healthcare for May 2026
• Upcoming events: Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (April 28-29), Basics of Caregiving (May 19), Bergen County Stigma-Free Symposium (May 13)

Planning Board

The Ridgewood Planning Board meeting scheduled for April 21, 2026, has been canceled. No items will be discussed. The next regular meeting is scheduled for May 5, 2026.

Ridgewood Arts Council

The Ridgewood Arts Council discusses upcoming events including the Older Americans Art Exhibit (hanging May 1st at the Library, reception May 12th, 7-9pm) and the Pride Event on June 6th, 11am-4pm. They also review past events, logistics for work collection and flyer distribution, and a Jamboree decoration request. The next meeting is scheduled for May 11th.

• Older Americans Art Exhibit hanging on May 1st at the Library
• Reception on May 12th, 7:00pm-9:00pm with setup at 6:00pm
• Pride Event on June 6th, 11:00am-4:00pm with marketplace and kids activities
• Jamboree seeking local artist for lobby decoration in February
• Next meeting discussion on May 11th

Citizens Safety Advisory Committee

The Citizens Safety Advisory Committee will hear updates from police and engineering on e-bike enforcement, sight triangle obstructions, incident reporting, and the Doremus & Ackerman intersection. No new business items are listed. The meeting includes public advisory comments and old business items for discussion.

• E-bikes updates from Ridgewood Police Department
• Sight Triangle Obstruction locations updates from Engineering
• Incident/Accident Reporting updates from RPD
• Doremus and Ackerman intersection discussion (Engineering, RPD)

The committee discussed traffic safety at Orchard School and the Daffodil Festival. The committee approved a final design contract modification for sidewalk projects. No formal votes were recorded.

• Approved final design contract modification for sidewalk projects (NJDOT)
• Discussed Orchard School traffic signal green time increase (County approved)
• Discussed Orchard School parking map distribution (RPD created)
• Discussed e-bike guidance (RPD waiting on state-level guidance)
• Discussed sight triangle enforcement (142 properties addressed, 13 outstanding)
• Discussed March 2026 collision totals (Police shared data)
• Discussed Downtown parking survey (planned for distribution)
• Discussed North Broad St. repaving (scheduled)

Zoning Board of Adjustment

The Ridgewood Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold public hearings on six variance applications for residential and commercial properties. Applicants seek approvals for setbacks, coverage limits, and signage not permitted by current zoning. The board will also discuss an extension of variance approval for a property on Phelps Road and memorialize a resolution for a multi-lot development on South Broad Street.

• Dr. Patrick Higgins – retain existing detached garage as accessory storage, exceeding coverage limits at 618 Frederick Street.
• Brian & Stephanie Zumbolo – construct box window and new detached garage with multiple coverage and setback variances at 55 Valley View Avenue.
• Steven & Kristen Passaro – build one-story addition with side yard setback and modified patio with reduced setback at 349 Carlton Terrace.
• Bryan & Lisamarie Jeffrey – construct rear deck exceeding above-grade coverage limits at 126 Linden Street.
• Glenn Carlough – install wall sign and blade sign for upper-floor business, not permitted in B-1 Zone at 51 North Broad Street.

The Ridgewood Zoning Board of Adjustment approved variance requests for the Passaro, Zumbolo, Jeffrey, Lair, and a second sign at 51 North Broad Street, while denying the original sign request. A one‑year extension was granted for a variance at 58 Phelps Road, and a resolution for Les Dann LLC was memorialized.

• Approved Passaro addition and play‑structure variance (motion passed)
• Approved Zumbolo box window and garage variance with conditions (motion passed)
• Approved Jeffrey rear‑deck variance with deck reduction condition (5‑2 vote)
• Denied original sign application for 51 North Broad Street (motion failed)
• Approved second wall sign and second blade sign with color‑review condition (5‑2 vote)
• Approved Lair two‑story rear addition variance (motion passed)
• Approved one‑year extension of variance for 58 Phelps Road (motion passed)
• Memorialized resolution for Les Dann LLC property on South Broad Street

Shade Tree Commission

The Shade Tree Commission will approve minutes from prior meetings and receive updates on the 1000-tree initiative, Daffodil Fest planning, and PSEG engineering. They will also discuss adding social media posts about street tree replacement and daffodil fest tips.

• Approve minutes from February 10 and March 3 meetings
• Update on PSEG engineering regarding trees
• Progress report on the 1000-tree initiative
• Planning for Daffodil Fest on April 26, 2026
• Add monthly social media posts on fallen tree replacement and daffodil fest

The Commission reviewed PSEG's plan to trim trees to protect power lines this year. PSEG must provide 45 days' notice before street work and will focus on the upper two nodes of poles. The Commission also discussed upcoming Arbor Day communications and Daffodil Fest planning.

• Approved March 2026 meeting minutes
• Noted PSEG requirement to provide 45-day notice before tree trimming

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will hold a public meeting to consider two applications: a proposed addition and renovations at 252 Lincoln Avenue (Kiyak Residence) and a proposed sunroom addition at 362 Crest Road (Qua Residence). The commission will also adopt minutes from its March 9, 2026 meeting.

• Kiyak Residence, 252 Lincoln Avenue – proposed addition and renovations
• Qua Residence, 362 Crest Road – proposed sunroom addition
• Adoption of minutes from March 9, 2026

Open Space Committee

The Ridgewood Open Space Committee will discuss execution of the recent open space tax referendum, including fund balance tracking, revenue flow timing, project implementation, and grant processes. The committee will also finalize plans for the Daffodil/Earth Day event on April 26th and consider a new committee member.

• Finalize Daffodil/Earth Day event scheduled for April 26th
• Discussion of tax referendum fund balance and revenue flow timeline
• Overview of grant application process, contacts, and agency options
• Approval of March meeting notes
• Appointment of new committee member Rick Brownell

The Open Space Committee approved March meeting notes and discussed utilizing the 2025 tax referendum funds for land acquisition and stewardship. The group agreed to brainstorm future steps at the next meeting.

• Approved March meeting notes
• Discussed utilizing 2025 referendum funds for land acquisition
• Agreed to brainstorm next steps at next meeting
• Scheduled Daffodil Fair/Earth Day materials
• Confirmed Park Event Walk Leaders

Green Ridgewood

Green Ridgewood will meet on April 9, 2026 to approve its 2026 budget and discuss updates on the NJ Climate Resiliency Planning Grant, the upcoming Daffodil Festival/Earth Day Fair, and leaf blower and food scrap initiatives. The agenda also includes reports on Columbia University study possibilities, sports equipment recycling, and flood resilience efforts.

• Discussion and approval of the 2026 Green Ridgewood budget (item 19)
• Update on NJ Climate Resiliency Planning Grant and Saddle River Watershed Alliance follow-up (item 5)
• Planning for the 2026 Daffodil Festival/Earth Day Fair on April 26 (item 10)
• Leaf blower strategy moving forward, including municipal fleet conversation (item 12a)
• Food scraps program expansion – next steps (item 12b)

The committee approved funding for rain garden maintenance at three parks and the purchase of two 65-gallon food scrap containers. A motion to use aquatic herbicide for knotweed removal at Graydon Park passed in a narrow vote.

• Approved March 5th meeting minutes
• Approved $560 for rain garden remediation at Habernickel Park and Vets Field (unanimous)
• Approved $1,200 for one application of aquatic herbicide at Graydon Park (7-6)
• Approved up to $4,000 for two 65-gallon food scrap containers (unanimous)

Community Center Advisory Board

The Community Center Advisory Board will approve February minutes, hear treasurer reports, and receive updates on community center improvement proposals and contracts. They will also discuss a fundraising event on the patio and a donor letter, along with committee reports on Age-Friendly and Civic Youth Corps events.

• Community Center Improvement Updates on Proposal and Contract
• Discussion of fundraising event on the Patio
• Donor letter to Lunch Bunch friends for donations
• Review of Swipesum fees and account deletion
• Renewal dates: Go Daddy June 12, 2026; 4agoodcause May 20, 2026

Central Business District Advisory Committee

The Ridgewood Central Business District Advisory Committee will discuss introducing its priorities to new Village Engineer James McGrath, advance parking subcommittee recommendations to the Chamber and Village Council, and review New Jersey's 'Skip the Stuff' law and e-bike ordinances as they affect the CBD. The committee will also hear updates on wayfinding, a Walker Associates survey, and new businesses like Morsetto along the Franklin Avenue corridor.

• Approve minutes of March 12, 2026 meeting
• Introduction of new Village Engineer James McGrath
• Discussion of 'Skip the Stuff' state law requiring single-use utensils and condiments only upon request
• Next steps for parking subcommittee recommendations to Chamber and Village Council
• Wayfinding in the CBD presentation next steps and Walker Associates survey update

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will hold a special public meeting, take public comments, then vote to enter closed session to discuss contract negotiations for the rental of village property. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Resolution to go into closed session for contract negotiations regarding rental of village property

Village Council Meeting

This is a special public meeting of the Ridgewood Village Council. The agenda includes only procedural items: a call to order, roll call, public comments (limited to 3 minutes per person), discussion of the agenda, and discussion of other council business. No ordinances, resolutions, contracts, or public hearings are listed. The meeting appears to be for general discussion and public input.

• Public comments on village matters (limited to 3 minutes per person)
• Discussion of the April 8, 2026 agenda
• Discussion of other village council business

Village Council Meeting

The Village Council will hold public hearings on the 2026 Village Budget and on Ordinance #4090 establishing a CAP Bank. They will also introduce a $4,000,000 bond ordinance for PFAS treatment plants and consider several other ordinances and resolutions, including changes to emergency management fees, blade sign regulations, and affordable housing spending.

• Public hearing on 2026 Village Budget
• Public hearing on Ordinance #4090 establishing a CAP Bank
• Introduction of Bond Ordinance #4095 for $4,000,000 for PFAS treatment plants
• Ordinance #4094 to rescind and replace blade sign regulations (Chapter 190 Land Use)
• Resolution #26-111 authorizing $541,880 grant application for Ridgewood train station pedestrian tunnel rehabilitation

The Village Council accepted the March 2026 financial reports and approved the minutes from the January 28, 2026 meeting. The session primarily consisted of several community proclamations and reports from the Village Manager regarding local infrastructure and remediation projects.

• Accepted Bills, Claims, Vouchers, and Statement of Funds as of March 31, 2026 (5-0)
• Approved Village Council minutes of January 28, 2026 (5-0)
• Proclaimed April as Tree Planting Month and April 24, 2026 as Arbor Day
• Reinstated Slow Mow May
• Proclaimed May as National Mental Health Awareness Month
• Proclaimed May 3-9, 2026 as National Drinking Water Week
• Proclaimed May as Older Americans Month