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1 week ago

Residents press Ridgewood council on Schedler tree removal and PFAS water treatment during public comment Residents at the April 8 Ridgewood Village Council meeting pressed officials over tree removals tied to the Zabriskie Schedler soil‑remediation project and ongoing PFAS treatment; council and staff said cuts were for hazard or remediation, outlined a replanting plan and noted PFOS treatment progress.

Ridgewood residents are demanding answers as tree removals for the Schedler soil-remediation project spark controversy over safety and environmental concerns.

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#RidgewoodBergenCounty #NJ #CommunityEngagement #PublicHealth #CitizenPortal #RidgewoodEnvironment

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1 week ago

Ridgewood holds public hearing on 2026 budget; council delays adoption pending state approval The Ridgewood council opened a public hearing on the 2026 municipal budget, described as a 3.98% increase that would raise taxes about $195 for a $715,000 home; discussion covered the Valley Hospital tax appeal, debt service, and a $4 million bond ordinance introduced for treatment-plant construction.

Ridgewood's proposed 2026 budget sparks heated discussions as residents face a potential $195 tax increase; could this impact your community?

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#RidgewoodBergenCounty #NJ #CommunityInvolvement #RidgewoodBudget #CitizenPortal #LocalGovernance #PublicFinance

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2 weeks ago

Council to pursue NJIT stormwater study and apply for county and state funds for train-station tunnel Staff presented a no‑cost partnership with NJIT for a 24‑month stormwater hydrology and flood‑mitigation study and said the village will apply for Bergen County and New Jersey Historic Trust grants (matching funds noted) to rehabilitate the Ridgewood Train Station pedestrian tunnel and pursue park improvements.

Ridgewood is set to tackle stormwater management with a no-cost partnership with NJIT, while also pursuing vital grants to enhance local infrastructure!

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#RidgewoodBergenCounty #NJ #InfrastructureImprovement #CitizenPortal #PublicEngagement #FloodMitigation #RidgewoodParks

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2 weeks ago

Ridgewood water director reports PFAS progress and urges $4 million supplemental appropriation Rich Calvi told the council six of 12 PFAS treatment facilities are active and proposed a yearlong research pilot with Revive to test in‑vessel carbon reactivation. He also recommended a $4 million supplemental appropriation to a 2023 $42 million bond order to cover IBank fees and contingencies so the fourth PFAS loan can close.

Ridgewood Water's director reveals exciting progress in the fight against PFAS and proposes a bold $4 million funding boost to ensure the village's future water safety.

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#RidgewoodBergenCounty #NJ #PublicHealth #CitizenPortal #EnvironmentalSafety #RidgewoodWater

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2 months ago

Votes at a glance: Ridgewood adopts overlay ordinances, sets hearings for capital bonds On Feb. 11 the Ridgewood Village Council adopted Ordinances 4071–4075 (overlay zones and affordable‑housing set‑aside changes) and approved first readings for capital/bond ordinances 4084 and 4086 with hearings set for March 11, 2026.

Ridgewood's Village Council just approved a series of pivotal zoning ordinances, sparking debate and setting the stage for major capital improvements!

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#RidgewoodBergenCounty #NJ #CitizenPortal #LocalGovernance #CommunityDevelopment #UrbanPlanning #RidgewoodAffordableHousing

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2 months ago

Ridgewood council adopts zoning overlays tied to affordable‑housing obligations amid strong public protest After more than two hours of public comment, the Ridgewood Village Council voted to adopt a package of overlay zoning ordinances (4071–4075) that officials say preserves the village's legal immunity from developer suits; residents and legal experts warned the measures depart from the master plan and risk litigation.

Ridgewood residents are rallying against a new zoning ordinance that they claim favors developers over community interests, raising serious questions about transparency and local governance.

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#RidgewoodBergenCounty #NJ #CommunityEngagement #CitizenPortal #PublicComment

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2 months ago

Ridgewood Water proposes rate adjustment, new contracts and security upgrades Deputy director Bill Bierwas presented four water-department agenda items including a recommendation for a WSP Inc. professional services contract (NTE $109,000), OSI security upgrades (~$311,005), an ordinance to adjust water rates (about an 11.3% average customer increase), and a small refund authorization; the council was asked to introduce the rate change next week to align with the budget calendar.

Ridgewood Water is proposing an 11.3% rate increase along with major security upgrades and new contracts—what does this mean for your water bill?

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#RidgewoodBergenCounty #NJ #CitizenPortal #WaterRates #PublicSafety #RidgewoodWater #BudgetTransparency

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2 months ago

Ridgewood narrows 2026 insurance spike after employees adopt 'difference card' plan Village administrators told the council that introducing a high-deductible plan paired with a 'difference card' cut a projected $3 million jump in group health costs to about $1.1 million; retiree premiums remain a major, separate cost driver with a 32.1% increase.

Ridgewood officials have revealed a bold strategy that slashed a projected $3 million insurance hike to just $1.1 million, but rising retiree premiums still pose a significant challenge.

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#RidgewoodBergenCounty #NJ #HealthCareCosts #EmployeeWellness #InsuranceReform

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2 months ago

Ridgewood seniors program to expand after $231,000 donation; village to provide $75,000 in staff funding over three years Community Center of Ridgewood Foundation and the Ridgewood Senior Citizens Corporation presented a grant agreement for downstairs community center improvements; the foundation announced a $231,000 donation and the village manager said the draft agreement includes $75,000 in village staff funding spread over three years, with a formal resolution to accept the gift scheduled for Feb. 11.

A generous $231,000 donation is set to transform the Community Center of Ridgewood, expanding senior programming and creating a vibrant new space for social connection!

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#RidgewoodBergenCounty #NJ #SocialInclusion #CommunitySupport #RidgewoodSeniors #SeniorProgramming

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2 months ago

Ridgewood water department proposes 8% rate increase as PFAS costs, treatment and capital rise The water utility presented a $26.7 million operating plan and proposed an average 8% customer charge increase (volume rate from $6.39 to $6.90 per 1,000 gallons) to cover PFAS treatment, higher utilities and capital repairs; the department also requested about $5.53 million in capital projects including a corrosion‑control pilot.

Ridgewood's water department is proposing an average 8% rate hike for 2026 to tackle rising PFAS treatment costs and aging infrastructure—are you prepared for the impact on your bill?

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#RidgewoodBergenCounty #NJ #EnvironmentalHealth #PublicSafety #InfrastructureInvestment

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2 months ago

Ridgewood introduces three new department leaders, outlining utility and infrastructure priorities The Village of Ridgewood introduced William Bierwas as deputy director of Ridgewood Water, James McGrath as director of public works and village engineer, and Neil Gallone as director of IT and GIS; each outlined early priorities including lead-service-line work, PFAS projects, bridge and signal bids, and expanded GIS access.

Ridgewood is ramping up its infrastructure game with three new leadership appointments, aiming to tackle critical projects like lead service line replacements and advanced GIS technology.

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#RidgewoodBergenCounty #NJ #RidgewoodUtilities #TechnologyInnovation #CitizenPortal

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3 months ago

Neighbors assail proposed Kensington assisted‑living overlay; council carries vote to Feb. 11 Dozens of Ridgewood residents opposed a proposed S‑1 senior overlay for a Kensington assisted‑living project at Franklin/Marshall/N. Maple, citing traffic, pedestrian safety, emergency access and master‑plan conflict; planner and counsel said the project would provide deed‑restricted affordable beds but final vote was deferred to Feb. 11.

Residents are rallying against the proposed Kensington assisted-living facility, fearing it will overshadow their homes and disrupt their community.

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#RidgewoodBergenCounty #NJ #TrafficSafety #AffordableHousing #RidgewoodAssistedLiving #CommunityInput #CitizenPortal

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3 months ago

Ridgewood council hears hours of testimony on five housing‑related ordinances, delays votes until Feb. 11 After more than five hours of public comment and technical briefings, the Ridgewood Village Council carried votes on five contested zoning ordinances—intended to meet the state

Ridgewood Village Council's heated public hearing on zoning ordinances could reshape the future of affordable housing in the community—find out what’s at stake!

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#RidgewoodBergenCounty #NJ #ZoningReform #RidgewoodAffordableHousing #CommunityInput #PublicPolicy #CitizenPortal

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3 months ago

Ridgewood council introduces four zoning ordinances and settlement steps after judge warns of losing zoning immunity After a lawyer warned a judge could strip Ridgewood of zoning immunity if the Kensington assisted‑living project isn’t resolved, the council introduced four ordinances to create overlays and set affordable‑housing standards and authorized settlement and mediation measures; public hearings are scheduled for Jan. 14, 2026.

Ridgewood's council is racing against time to preserve local zoning control as they introduce key ordinances tied to the controversial Kensington assisted-living project—will they secure a future for affordable housing or risk losing it all?

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4 months ago

Ridgewood officials present excavation plan for Schedler property after tests find PAHs, lead and mercury Consultants told residents a DEP-reviewed plan would excavate contaminated imported fill at the Schedler property after sampling found PAHs, lead and mercury; the plan is pending NJDEP sign-off, bid documents will be issued and work could start in January with perimeter air monitoring and truck-route controls.

Ridgewood is set to tackle contamination at the Schedler property, with plans for excavation and remediation underway after alarming levels of toxic substances were discovered.

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#RidgewoodBergenCounty #NJ #CitizenPortal #CommunityOutreach #RidgewoodEnvironment #PublicHealth

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5 months ago

Council reviews NJDEP finding of tiny isolated wetland at Zabriskie/Schedler site; community meeting on soil remediation set for Nov. 13 Council discussed a Suburban Consulting Engineering letter reporting a small (<0.01 acre) isolated wetland identified by NJDEP at the Zabriskie/Schedler property and announced a public community presentation by Matrix New World Engineering on the soil remediation plan scheduled for Nov. 13; manager also updated residents on PFAS treatment work and potential timing impacts from a DEP‑required cultural resource study at Cedar Hill.

Ridgewood's Village Council reveals a tiny wetland at the Zabriskie/Schedler site and invites residents to a crucial meeting on soil remediation—your voice matters!

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#RidgewoodBergenCounty #NJ #CitizenPortal #PFASTreatment #RidgewoodEnvironment #SoilRemediation

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5 months ago

Ridgewood council approves contract to offer high-deductible health plan with reimbursement card Facing a 36.5% jump in state premiums, Ridgewood officials approved hiring a vendor to administer a “difference card” that will cover employees’ out-of-pocket costs under an optional high-deductible plan; the village says the move should lower premiums for staff and reduce next year’s budgetary impact.

Ridgewood Village is tackling a 36.5% state premium hike by introducing a high-deductible health plan that could save employees money while ensuring quality coverage!

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#RidgewoodBergenCounty #NJ #CitizenPortal #RidgewoodEmployees #BudgetarySavings #HealthCareReform

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5 months ago

Ridgewood officials report $1M state grant for PFAS treatment; Cedar Hill bid withdrawal delays award Ridgewood Water received $1 million toward the main PFAS treatment facility; council was told a low bidder for another treatment project previously withdrew, prompting a rebid decision and delay.

Ridgewood Water secures a $1M grant for PFAS treatment upgrades, but a bidding mishap could delay another vital project!

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#RidgewoodBergenCounty #NJ #WaterSafety #CitizenPortal #RidgewoodWater #EnvironmentalProtection #CommunityFunding

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11 months ago

Pam recognized for leadership in Central Business District initiatives Pam receives commendation for coordinating efforts in the Central Business District.

Pam's remarkable leadership in revitalizing Ridgewood's Central Business District has earned her heartfelt appreciation from the community, proving that effective collaboration can breathe new life into local commerce.

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#RidgewoodBergenCounty #NJ #CommunityDevelopment

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11 months ago

Ridgewood Water discusses lead service line replacement plans at town round table Residents urged to volunteer for lead service line replacements before 2031 deadline

Ridgewood is taking bold steps to ensure water safety by replacing lead service lines, and they need your help to make it happen before the 2031 deadline!

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#RidgewoodBergenCounty #NJ #EnvironmentalAwareness #WaterSafety #CommunityEngagement #CitizenPortal #RidgewoodWater

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11 months ago

City Council announces reopening of treetop yoga at historic James Rose Center City Council plans proclamation for James Rose Center and promotes May yoga reopening.

The Village of Ridgewood is buzzing with excitement as the treetop yoga program prepares to return on May 17, promising a unique blend of relaxation and nature!

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#RidgewoodBergenCounty #NJ #RidgewoodCommunity #CommunityEngagement #WellnessInitiatives #NatureConnections

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11 months ago

Village Council approves $10K change order for Kingsbridge Lane bridge repairs Council recommends $10,073 engineering contract to repair Kingsbridge Lane pedestrian bridge.

Ridgewood's council meeting unveiled crucial plans for the Kingsbridge Lane bridge repairs, with local contractors stepping up to ensure safety and community engagement.

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#RidgewoodBergenCounty #NJ #RidgewoodInfrastructure #PublicSafety #CitizenPortal #EnvironmentalRemediation

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11 months ago

Ridgewood Council awards contracts for emergency notification and asphalt equipment upgrades Ridgewood Council approves contracts for emergency mass notification system and asphalt hot patch trailer.

Ridgewood is stepping up its game with a new emergency notification system and an exciting plan to boost local businesses through a Special Improvement District!

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#RidgewoodBergenCounty #NJ #RidgewoodPublicSafety #EmergencyResponse #CommunityInvolvement #CitizenPortal

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11 months ago

Ridgewood celebrates Earth Day with community events and green initiatives Ridgewood hosts Daffodil Day and launches rain barrel program to promote environmental awareness

Ridgewood's recent council meeting showcased an inspiring commitment to community and the environment, with exciting initiatives like the Daffodil Day tree giveaway and the opening of a new bakery invigorating local engagement.

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11 months ago

Ridgewood plans spring vendor festival alongside bridal and pride celebrations Ridgewood schedules its spring vendor festival to celebrate community engagement and public safety.

Ridgewood is buzzing with excitement as it gears up for a lively spring vendor festival to celebrate Bridal Day and Pride Day, while also focusing on community safety and historic preservation.

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#RidgewoodBergenCounty #NJ #CulturalPreservation #RidgewoodCommunity