Ridgewood residents demand end to bullying and improved irrigation enforcement

The Village of Ridgewood held a significant meeting on May 7, 2025, addressing various community concerns, including issues of conduct during meetings, irrigation regulations, and the ongoing debate over turf fields.

The meeting began with residents expressing their appreciation for the ability to participate remotely, highlighting the importance of accessibility in local governance. However, the tone shifted as several attendees voiced serious concerns regarding the treatment of women during meetings. One resident pointed out that this was the second instance of a woman being berated by a male member of the Ridgewood Lacrosse Association, emphasizing the need for established rules of conduct to prevent such behavior in the future.

Another resident raised issues regarding the village's irrigation policy, which limits manual watering to two days a week. She argued that this regulation seems unfair, especially when observing neighbors with smart controllers watering more frequently. She called for better enforcement of the rules to ensure compliance among all residents.

The discussion then turned to the contentious topic of turf fields. Multiple residents criticized the push for artificial turf, citing health and environmental concerns. One resident, a professional trainer, argued that turf fields pose risks to children's health and development. She expressed frustration over the lack of innovative solutions being explored by the village leadership and called for community involvement in strategic planning.

Additionally, concerns were raised about the treatment of a long-time resident whose garden was threatened by village regulations. This incident highlighted the emotional impact of local governance decisions on community members.

In contrast, a resident praised the village leadership for their integrity and commitment to the community, urging them to remain steadfast in their decisions despite external pressures.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued dialogue and community engagement, emphasizing the importance of addressing residents' concerns while fostering a respectful and inclusive environment. The village leadership is expected to consider these discussions as they move forward with their initiatives.