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Ridgewood council approves sidewalk-display ordinance after local preservationists raise concerns
Summary
The Ridgewood Village Council approved ordinance 4096 on second reading May 13 to allow regulated sidewalk displays downtown. The vote was split amid objections from the Historic Preservation Commission and concerns about uneven sidewalk widths and enforcement.
The Ridgewood Village Council voted on May 13 to adopt ordinance 4096, creating a regulated permit process for sidewalk displays in the central business district.
The ordinance cleared its second reading after a brief public hearing and council debate. A member of the public noted that the Historic Preservation Commission had recommended against the ordinance; during council discussion, some members said they opposed the measure because it could unevenly favor businesses on wider sidewalks and risk undermining special sidewalk-sale events.
Why it matters: Council supporters said the measure aims to help struggling downtown retailers adapt to changing retail patterns by allowing displays under a regulated permit system. Opponents warned the ordinance27s definitions are broad and enforcement may be uneven in narrow sidewalk areas near the train station.
Key exchanges and votes: During the public hearing Boyd (a resident) asked whether the ordinance matched HPC recommendations; council debate followed. Parin said she would vote no, stating, "I vote against it and I'm disappointed," citing concerns about tables that could reach six feet in length and uneven application. Council member Whites also said, "I respectfully vote no as well," expressing reservations about the measure. Council member Wiggrad said she would vote yes and urged future amendments if needed; another member, Dianos, likewise voted to approve the ordinance. The motion to adopt ordinance 4096 on second reading carried on a split vote.
Next steps and implementation: The clerk will finalize the publication required by law. Officials said a permit application will be available before the ordinance takes effect (ordinances take effect 20 days after final publication), and staff will prepare the application form, insurance requirements, and landlord consent templates.
Provenance: Council considered first readings of related fee ordinances earlier in the meeting; the sidewalk-display ordinance hearing and vote are recorded between SEG 1650 and SEG 1870 in the transcript.
