May 12, 2020 - New Jersey State Police Colonel Patrick J. Callahan  addressed questions and concerns regarding celebrations and ceremonies to honor New Jersey school graduates of the Class of 2020 in a letter to the Department of Education and all Public and Non-Public Schools.

The letter refers to the restrictions in Executive Order 107 and indicates in-person ceremonies, including graduations, all parades, including “wave parades,” that invite people to gather at a certain location, proms, and other similar celebrations violate the conditions of the Executive Order and therefore should be canceled or postponed until such time as these restrictions are lifted. 

The Washington Township Health Department, reports there have been 101 confirmed cases of COVID-19 (coronavirus) in Washington Township through May 11, 2020. Sadly eleven deaths have been reported while 34 cases have been confirmed as released from isolation.

If you’re sick, call your healthcare provider. Call your doctor’s office or hospital FIRST before driving there. If you call 9-1-1 for a true emergency, please cover your face to protect yourself and our first responders. Follow CDC guidelines and stay home as much as possible:

• Wear a cloth mask at grocery stores, parks and golf courses and where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

• Avoid handshakes. 

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

• If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. If you do not have a tissue, use your sleeve (not your hand).

• Get a flu shot to prevent the flu if you have not done so this season. 

A couple reminders below for those who may have missed these items last week:

• The Township Committee extended the grace period for second quarter taxes from May 11 to May 26. The due date remains May 1 by state statute. Interest is waived for second quarter tax payments made by May 26. Interest on taxes paid after May 26 is calculated from May 1 in accordance with statute. 

• Friday, starting at 6:30 PM, the Recreation department will be hosting a live concert via Zoom with the country duo October Rose. For more information and to register for this event please email us at recreation@wtmorris.net or visit our website at www.wtmorris.org.

Stay safe,

Mayor Matthew T. Murello