May 4, 2011 THE VILLADOM TIMES III • Page 7 ���������� by Jennifer Crusco Ho-Ho-Kus Chamber of Commerce President Andrew Ripps and Chamber Vice President Steven Sager were on hand last week as the borough council introduced Ordinance 987, a proposal to keep restaurants away from resi5-4-11 karen/janine dential zones. HoHoKusSidewalkBanner6x(5-4-11) Ripps and Sager told Mayor Thomas Randall and the 6 x .75” members of the council they were seeking additional information about the proposal. “Our town has gotten busier,” Mayor Randall responded, noting that parking is at a premium in the downtown area. He added that the ordinance would, if adopted next month, prohibit restaurants where a business zone abuts a residential zone. Randall pointed out that the goal is to keep the traffic, outdoor noise, and activity associated with restaurants away from local homes. Ripps then asked about the borough’s general move to restrict restaurants in town. Randall said if a prospective restaurateur could meet the borough’s bulk conditions, that person could potentially receive an approval from the planning board. He said that one of those conditions is providing a designated number of parking spaces related to the square footage of the business. That formula, he said, would not be changed by Ordinance 987. ������������������������������� ��������� Sager asked if there was a conflict of interests because the borough owns the Ho-Ho-Kus Inn and leases that facility, which has been operated by various restaurateurs over the years. “We don’t own the restaurant as such,” Randall added. He pointed out that, while the borough owns the building, the municipality is effectively a landlord. He said any regulations pertaining to restaurants would require all local restaurant owners to be in compliance. When Sager asked again about a perceived conflict, Randall said, “As long as we’re a landlord, any decision that we make that affects the downtown could be viewed the same way.” Sager then asked about the research that had led to the proposed ordinance. He expressed the concern that, although the council had contacted the Chamber, some members perceive that the council is rushing to approve the measure. Both Sager and Ripps asked about when public input would be accepted. Randall said the public hearing on an ordinance is held (the month) after the introduction, after which time the proposal is considered for final passage. Councilman Doug Troast noted that the council was only due to introduce the ordinance last week, and pointed out that an article has appeared in the newspaper about this issue. Randall noted that the ordinance, drafted by planner Ed Sneickus of Burgis Associates, was recommended by the (continued on next page) ���������������������������������������������� Restaurant ordinance introduced; May hearing set Chamber hosts first Spring Sidewalk Sale Spring flowers aren’t the only things popping up around the Ho-Ho-Kus Downtown Shopping and Dining District. This week, items of all shapes and colors will be specially priced for the Ho-Ho-Kus Chamber of Commerce first Spring Sidewalk Sale. The sale will take place Friday and Saturday, May 6 and 7. In case of rain, the event will take place May 13 and 14. Hours will be 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Shoppers will find great gifts for Mother’s Day, graduation, and confirmation, plus crave-able specials at participating restaurants. Participating merchants will also distribute keys for an opportunity to unlock the Chamber Treasure Chest. One lucky person will receive a gift certificate from a local business. Be sure to come early and plan to stay late. ����� ������������������������������������������������������������������������� ���������������������������������������������������������������� ���������������������������������������������������������������� During the month of May Celebrating Our 6th Year All Color Services and ������������������ (Once a Week - Minimum $30) 20% OFF Pedicures 5-4-11 Mike/Janine IvyLeagueCleaners3x3(5-4-11) 3 x 3’ Rev1 Stop by and shop for beautiful and speciality gifts, accessories & lighting in-home consultations extensive fabric lines window treatments custom upholstery luxurious bedding outdoor furniture Discount of 30-50% off retail on fine furniture www.idalacarte.com 5-4-11 mike/janine EvolveSalon3x3(5-4-11) 3 x 3” Rev1 Where your home’s possibilities are realized. 18 Sycamore Ave • Ho Ho Kus, NJ 07423 201-612-3800 Tues-Sat 10-4 (after hours by appointment)