November 25, 2024 Council Update

The full meeting is available here.

Below you will find a summary of the main points from the November 25, 2024 Council Meeting. 

The new audio system has not been installed yet and this public meeting was recorded on someone’s phone.

MANAGER’S REPORT 

Forest Fire Update: Fire lasted for more than a week and first responders were active and worked hard during this time. Thanks to all of them. No structures damaged in Ringwood. In true Ringwood fashion, everyone came together to support the emergency workers. 

Phase II Skyline Lakes Drive Project: DOT approved the contract for drainage and installation and it should start this winter subject to weather.

Affordable Housing: On October 18, 2024 the State DCA released new affordable housing calculations. Under this calculation, Ringwood’s present need is 26 units and there is a prospective need of 133 units. By December 21, 2025 the Council must pass a resolution either accepting these calculations or providing alternative numbers. Since the Borough is entirely in the Highlands Preservation area, the Highlands Council made a determination that zero parcels are eligible for development- but the Borough will see if this prevails. There is a new Affordable Housing Subcommittee that will  work on this issue and there will be more updates in the coming year.

OLD BUSINESS 

POLICE OFFICER SALARIES: Adopted Ordinance 2024-15 salaries and compensation of the police officers, PBA Local 247 – subject to complete execution of the collective bargaining agreement 2022-2025. 

REDEVELOPMENT PLAN: Adopted Ordinance 2024-16 an Ordinance Adopting the Block 801 Lot 4.03 Redevelopment Plan consisting of Block 801, lot 4.03 this ordinance includes the vision and the goal of a master plan and outlines the zoning for fieldstone shopping center. The updated plan includes an expanded usage list, encourages a PAD site on the property, and includes requirements to make the site more attractive. Maximum height is 35 feet and 2 ½ stories without variance relief and there will be pedestrian amenities. Parking requirements have been refined and include a provision for shared parking for peak demand. Any pro-rata share of the off-site improvements (such as traffic lights, lighting, drainage, etc) will be paid for by the Developer.

Lastly, kick off the winter holidays with the Borough. On Sunday December 8th, Come Meet Santa at the Ringwood Community Center from 3pm to 4:30pm and later in the day, the Annual Christmas Tree & Menorah Lighting Ceremony will be held at the Fieldstone Shopping Plaza.

The Skyline Lakes Fire Department's HOLIDAY CRAFT & VENDOR SHOW will be held at the Skyline Lakes Fire House (67 Edgewood Road) Saturday, December 14th from 10am to 3pm.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving! 

Breeze Sando

President, Ringwood Democratic Organization