Hillsdale Mayor John Ruocco wrote an open letter to borough residents on Wednesday, March 18.
My fellow residents, little did I know after becoming mayor for a second term that Hillsdale would face one of its most serious challenges.
Unlike the floods, power outages, and snow storms that we overcame in the past, the COVID-19 pandemic threatens all of us in a unique way. It isn’t tangible to the naked eye, but its effects are real and potentially deadly, especially to those over age 60 or with pre-existing immunodeficiencies or respiratory weaknesses.
Government authorities are taking actions to minimize its spread, but they require changes to the way we typically run our lives. Some will have severe economic ramifications on local businesses.
I will not repeat the guidance that is being broadcast so intensely over the media regarding personal hygiene and social distancing. The executive orders issued by the Governor are intended to further achieve these goals. Although our local restaurants and bars have closed their “dine-in” facilities, their take-out services are available. I urge you to patronize them, as their business survival is at stake. Please stop hoarding food, toilet paper, etc. The management of Kings and ShopRite have assured me that regular deliveries are expected. By buying only what you need for the week, you will be showing the type of neighborly unselfishness that is critical if we are to emerge from this crisis.
As you already know, Borough Hall is closed to the public, with business being conducted by appointment, email and telephone. All Borough-sponsored events and activities have been cancelled or wound-down. All board and commission meetings, including our Planning Board sessions, have been cancelled. We are studying ways to conduct Mayor & Council meetings remotely, with provisions for public participation via electronic means.
Furthermore, pursuant to advice from the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, I will be asking the governing body to postpone temporarily all significant but non-essential decisions until public participation and review can be fully restored to normal.
These would include major new capital expenditures that could require large debt financing, as well as strategic initiatives such as adopting a redevelopment plan for the industrial area.
We are managing our work force in a manner consistent with the public safety needs of the Borough, working remotely wherever possible and reallocating resources if needed.
It has been challenging, given the novelty of the pandemic virus situation. However, the Borough is fortunate to have department heads, employees, and volunteers dedicated to assure essential services and safety.
While adjusting response protocols and donning protective equipment, our police and volunteer first responders will continue to serve the needs of the community during the pandemic.
Our Borough Administrator has been working intensively with our Emergency Management coordinators and Health Department to get ahead of the challenge. They have my full confidence and support.
Earlier generations of Americans pulled together for the sake of our community and nation. Now we must do the same.