April 18, 2020 - The Township’s health department has reported a total of 66 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the Township through April 19, 2020. Thirteen cases have been confirmed released from isolation.  Six deaths have been reported. To protect the privacy of any persons involved, no further information will be released at this time. 

A public hearing on the 2020 Budget will be held at tonight’s online Township Committee Meeting. The municipal budget includes a tax rate increase of roughly 1 percent. For the average assessed home of about $436,000, the increase will be about $22. 

I have received some inquiries about the May 1 property tax due date. By statute, the municipality can establish a ten-day grace period which we have done. This quarter the due date will be the 11th because the 10th is a Sunday. The state has not authorized a longer extension. There was a bill in the Legislature to do so but it was reportedly stopped in the State Senate after passing the assembly largely through the efforts of the NJEA because it would have delayed payments to schools and counties until taxes were collected. 

The agenda and log-in instructions for tonight’s meeting can be found online on the calendar at www.wtmorris.net 

Last week’s bingo had such a high demand, we are scheduling another Virtual Bingo Bonanza, more info will be in tomorrow’s report. Please keep an eye out for the registration instructions on facebook and wtmorris.org. The Washington Township Weekend Crossword is now available on the website’s Recreation announcement page.

As a reminder, 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:

• 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. 

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

Thank you and stay safe,

Mayor Matthew T. Murello