A Shout Out To Our EMTs! Well done!

Hey Everyone! I thought I would highlight the work of our Emergency Medical Technicians as they continue to do their job and serve our community and its residents despite the real risks inherent in providing emergency medical assistance during this pandemic. I can tell you that without any hesitation, they have responded to this crisis with incredible professionalism, commitment, ingenuity and empathy. This is their time to meet the needs of the members of our community they serve, and they do so day and night without complaint or reservation.

So the “ingenuity” part is what made we want to share my thoughts with you. I am attaching some pictures that show you how they have been working….to treat their patients safely…and to give them the confidence that they are in the midst of truly committed medical professionals and will be well taken of.

The picture of the cot outfitted with the PVC framework was made by our EMTs. It allows for a plastic covering to be placed over it so that the transportation of patients can be done safely and securely. Their work clothes are more like hazmat suits now. Once the service is completed, the decontamination of the cot and the interior of the transport vehicle is done….every time.

To all of our residents, please do not be afraid to call for medical assistance. Our EMTs have your safety in mind, and are able to their job whether during a pandemic or not!

Thank you Chief Chrissie Vincent, EMT Ray Hallock, EMT Susan Ash, EMT Jesse Weinberg, EMT Dave Zavacky, EMT Ryan Hafner, EMT Felix Diaz, EMT Kirk Everett, EMT Jason Machusak and Jack Oakley, Director of Fire and Emergency Medical Services. Well done!

Be Smart, Be Safe and Be Responsible!👊👊✌️

To be or not to be....the 2020 Lawrence Township Memorial Day Parade.

Hey Everyone:

Recently, we had to make the decision to cancel the 2020 Memorial Day Parade.  This has always been our event, I think more so than most, that is our little piece of Americana.  For those that have participated in it (I did as a child) or have watched from the street, you know what I am talking about.  It has always been and will always be (as long as I'm around) a cherished community event.  We announced the cancelation on our Township FaceBook page and, to my surprise, received a little push back and some second guessing.  Some believed that the decision was made too early, and others thought it should go on as scheduled.  So I thought I would share a little more about the decision process with you all.

Initially, I will tell you that the decision was not very difficult to make.  Yes, it was a disappointing decision to have to make, but it was not difficult.  We are in the midst of a public health pandemic of the likes we have not experienced in our lifetime.  Protecting the health and safety of the community and our employees cannot and should not be compromised for a parade; no matter how desperately a community may need it emotionally and mentally.

Some questioned whether the decision was made too early.  It was not.  What many may not know, have not considered or fully appreciate is the time, effort and manpower put into planning such an event.  These events are not just about designating a date, time and location and we all just show up.  Rather, it takes a lot of work and organization both by the event planners and the groups that participate.  The planning for such an event takes at least two months or more.  Waiting to the last moment to decide whether to have it or not is simply not an option.  It is not a wise use of our time and resources, nor is it reasonable to expect the level of participation required to actually make a parade.

Although the residents that come out and situate themselves along the parade route to cheer on the participants could still do so in safety with social distancing, I am not sure what they would be cheering for.  Unfortunately, but understandably, we have received very few commitments to participate in the parade from people, clubs, and organizations that had done so in the past.  Also, I am very reluctant to have our first responders: our fire fighters, EMTs, and police officers gather together and participate in the parade....risk their health and safety... and put in jeopardy their ability to effectively serve the community when they are really needed.  We have been extremely fortunate maintaining a healthy and functioning work force by being smart in what we do in our jobs and how we do our jobs that serve this community. 

Our Memorial Day Parade is all about celebrating "community."  It is the gathering together of residents, clubs, associations, bands, vendors, veterans, etc.  Allowing this event to take place knowing what we know about this public health crisis, which involves the spreading of a highly contagious virus with no known cure or vaccine, that continues to cause illness and death, would be irresponsible in my opinion.  As much as we want to "re-open" and return to some normalcy, I think it is most appropriate to be guided by our trusted health professionals to fight this virus with common sense decision making.  We can live through disappointment, but some of us may not live through the Coronavirus.  I know, that was a dramatic line, but not untrue.  

There will come a time when we will celebrate our "community" again with parades and events when it is safe to do so.  And we will appreciate those moments and events so much more now that we have had them taken away from us this year.  For now, let's be smart, protect ourselves, and by doing so limit the risk that we put our healthcare workers in who have been providing care and comfort to those of us that are sick or dying from this virus.  I hope the decision makes better sense to you all now.  We will figure out a safe way to honor those that have served in our U.S. Military.  Stay safe and well!

The 2020 Lawrence Township Municipal Budget and Covid-19

Hey Everyone!  Last night at the municipal council meeting, the 2020  Lawrence Township Budget was ADOPTED by our municipal governing body.  The meeting was conducted (pursuant to NJ Law and in compliance with the notice requirements under NJ’s Open Public Meetings Act) via conference call available to anyone wishing to listen and participate at public comment.  Since no members of the public chose to participate in the call, I wanted to share with you my comments that I placed on the record before the vote was taken on the budget’s adoption.  They were as follows (in quotes):

“The Lawrence Township 2020 Municipal Budget is presented to you for approval. 

As we discussed when [at the Introduction of the budget] it was presented to you in our March meeting, we have modified the budget to provide for possible additional expenses directly related to the Coronavirus pandemic.  Specifically, we increased “Salary and Wages” by $30,000, and $105,000 in other expenses under Municipal Manager Appropriations for a total increase of $135,000 from the original budget pre Covid-19. 

The budget offered to you for adoption provides for a 2 cent increase [originally it was 1.7 cent increase].   1 cent = $463,052 and, therefore, 2 Cents = $926,104.66 tax levy increase.  The amount to be raised by taxes is $27,644,378.

The total budget is $50,521,239.02.  It is a balanced budget and conforms to all applicable state budget statutes.

The increase in appropriations exceeds our 2.5% appropriations CAP.  However, the Township has sufficient appropriation cab bank for use.  The increase in Tax Levy is still under the Levy Cap and, in fact, will add to our Levy Cap Bank. 

The full impact of Pandemic upon municipal finances cannot be accurately known at this time.  We will have a better sense of it after our 3^rd Quarter taxes are collected. 

State Aid for 2020 has been certified to be $3,982,565.  We do not foresee this amount being withdrawn since it has been certified.” However, as we sit here tonight, we have no idea what 2021 will bring us in terms of State support towards our budget.”  END OF MY COMMENTS.

Also, please note that the increases made to the 2020 Budget are our best estimation of the potential Covid-19 related additional expenses for this year.  The funds made available can be used to hire temporary employees (should our work force decrease due to illness or other Covid-19 circumstances) and to purchase goods and supplies to address Covid-19 related issues. 

When I discussed these changes to budget at the time it was introduced to the Mayor and Council at the public meeting last month, I made the commitment that any amount that was not used, would be returned and credited towards the 2021 budget.  This is not a money grab.  NJ Budget Law requires that ONLY budgeted money may be spent by a municipality.  As a result, if it is not budgeted, it cannot be spent.  And that is not a position we want to put our community in during this serious public health crisis.  

Based upon discussions among my peers, there is a universal understanding that revenues normally received each year by a municipalities will be significantly less than what the budget provides for and we, as a community, will have to address those losses responsibly to maintain services the municipal government is required to provide to the community.  But we will be in a better position to assess this situation later in the year. 

The Budget documents are posted on our municipal website at www.lawrencetwp.com.  

And to those who hate all things tax related (I am included in this group), I simply remind you that the municipal government is required by law to collect your property taxes.  Your property taxes include the School Tax (53.25%), the County Tax (25.55%), the Municipal Tax (20.14) and Open Space Tax (1.06).  So if your property tax bill is $8,000, the municipal tax (the only tax that is under the authority of the municipal government and your elected officials) is approximately $1600.  Just a kind reminder……to not make us responsible for ALL property taxes collected!  

Times are tough...but love finds a way!

Hey Everyone! I just wanted to let you all know of a happy moment that occurred yesterday at the Peace Garden located near the North Entrance of our Municipal Building. Two people were married by our Municipal Court Judge Lew Korngut, J.M.C. It was a cool moment in a very weird time we are all experiencing right now.

I am told that the original plan was to have the couple and the two witnesses have the marriage ceremony in the Court Room (which is how most ceremonies are conducted by our Judge).  And when they exited the building, they would be greeted by family and friends honking horns from their cars in the parking lot.  But yesterday, an audible was called, and the 5 minute ceremony was conducted at the Peace Garden with the couples' family and friends (wearing masks and keeping a safe distance from each other...for those inquiring minds that want to know) watched from the parking lot and cheered for them when it was over. 

I took this as a sign that "where there is a will, there is a way" and that we all press on through challenging times. I want to wish the couple congratulations and much joy and happiness together.
I share this story, somewhat reluctantly, because at least one concerned person felt that it was an inappropriate gathering and reported it to a news outlet.

The facts are important, and I wanted to express them to you.  The way it was done...the respect for the pandemic that was shown by those standing in the public parking lot (wearing masks and the distance kept) ...and for the private reasons this wedding was held. I respectfully disagree, and I am happy that it was able to take place...quickly and safely. Thank you Judge Korngut for keeping a cool head and working with the couple to keep their day special.  👊👊✌️

Be safe and well everyone! God bless!

2020 April 13. Thoughts and Prayers for Our Fellow Residents of Lawrence.

Hey Everyone: Today I received the daily report from our Health Officer, Carol Chamberlain, on the totals for residents infected with the virus and the number that have died from the virus. As of today, we have 67 residents that have tested positive, and 3 residents who have died.

If you are like me...and keeping up with this public health crisis by staying informed through emails from public officials, TV, radio or social media.... we are reminded endlessly of the "totals" by country or state in the U.S. Or about the "curve" and it's peak.

But, for a just a moment or two today, please take the time to be very mindful that the "totals" are people. Those testing positive, are people who are most likely terrified to have contracted this deadly virus, and who can't receive the comfort from others to get them through this because they must be isolated from everyone. Those that have died from the virus are someone's mother, father, brother, sister, friend, co-worker or fellow resident. People who were trying to live their best life before this virus took over our world....and took their lives.

We have 67 people from our community right now fighting this virus, and the families of 3 residents mourning the loss of a loved one. Collectively as a community we can all...at the very least...send a prayer...if you are religious...or a peaceful and kind thought...if you are not religious....to those who are sick and those that are in mourning. It's difficult to do much to help when you have to maintain physical distancing, but we can keep our heads clear and mindful of the humanity of this all. And always be compassionate and empathetic to others.

I will be looking into some ways for us as a community to help others during this pandemic, and will let you know as soon as details can be shared....please be safe and well...and strong. 👊👊✌️

Response to Governor Murphy's closing State and County Parks

Hey Everyone: Because of the NJ Governor's order today to close all State and County Parks, it has forced us to consider what to do since his order did not apply to municipal parks. Initially, my sense is that we can anticipate that if we leave our parks open while all other surrounding communities close theirs (along with the County and State parks closed), our parks would then be a destination for people seeking some outdoor park activities. This increased activity would create more opportunities for breaching the physical distancing restrictions that have been imposed to reduce the spread of the coronavirus.  But, like a broken record, I have always been of the mindset that we don't simply follow what other towns do without thoughtful consideration of all the facts, and how those facts and circumstances apply to our community.

Earlier today, I met with our Police Chief to get a better sense of what his assessment about what was happening in our parks. I have made a point to visit our parks during this time to monitor the situation myself, but I certainly would get a better idea from the Chief's perspective.  We both agreed that though there have been some small gatherings of kids sporadically, that it has not been to a degree that would cause a deep concern to address it by the drastic decision to shut all parks down.   As I said previously, providing areas for people to decompress, get some fresh air, some exercise....in a responsible way.....is extremely important. Not everyone has a large home with a giant back yard and endless options to keep busy on their own property. We need to make decisions by considering all of the residents in our community.

The Chief and I concluded that we should keep the parks open but closely monitor them over the next couple of days. To increase police presence in our parks during this time, and that the officers will be actively addressing gatherings of 3 people or more. But will do this from a distance to not unnecessarily put them in a situation risking exposure to the virus for a non-law enforcement situation.  We will revisit this issue again on Friday, and make a decision based upon what is happening in the parks.

I implore all the parents of teens who they let go to the parks to spend some time educating them on social distancing, the pandemic, and why it is important to follow the guidelines of the health officials fighting the spread of this virus on our behalf. If they don't care about themselves, try offering up caring for others as an alternative means of persuasion.

So our parks will remain open for now. They will be closely monitored. If we come to realize that people simply can't abide by the physical distancing requirements despite our best efforts....I will make the decision to close the parks. We, as a community, also have a responsibility to be a part of the solution, not the problem. Knowing that we tried...and knowing that it was important enough to give it an extra effort on behalf of the community...has to be enough for now. Stay safe and well! 👊👊✌️

Random Thoughts During These Difficult Times

Warning: This is mushy. Those not in the mood, just move along!

Hey Everyone: Before I started typing this I had no real words in mind and nothing specific to report....just a feeling that I wanted to reach out to all of you and say I'm thinking about you...hoping that everyone knows and understands the critical importance of physical distancing and leaving your home for only completely necessary reasons. The latest advice is to wear a mask (makeshift if need be) covering your mouth and nose when you go into a public place...please do this for now.

I know if feels like the walls are closing in on us, and everything we see on social media and the tv is a minute by minute breakdown of where we are right now during this crisis. But I offer a simple reminder to all....be thankful for the people in our lives...those that give you the reason to get up in the morning and meet each day with the plan to do our best. There is no time better than now to make sure we all be the best versions of ourselves. Treat each other with kindness and respect. To not be afraid to make a positive difference in someone's life that you think may need your help in big ways or small ways.

Most importantly, everyone needs to understand that each one of us is doing our best to hold it all together. Some are doing better than others. For those that may seem on edge, grumpy or unnecessarily unkind...just take a long moment to be mindful of what they may be thinking and feeling...and provide an empathetic response.

To be honest, I have lost my head a couple times over the past couple days from the pressure of it all...and regret things I have said or the manner in which I said it. I admit my humanness. I will make sure I reach out to those people and offer an apology (and hope they can accept it).
Ugh...these are truly bizarre and troubling times. I just heard that a classmate of mine from NDHS lost his battle with the virus today...after receiving such a positive report about his progress yesterday. In a short time, each one of us will have known someone who passed away from this virus. And years from now...when we are done with this thing...it will not be far from the surface of our psyche. So I think a good plan is to be fully aware that the time is now to be strong and kind and thoughtful and positive....

I think I am using this post to get my head straight....I'm sorry if this seems out a place or untimely. Be safe and well everyone. And please know the men and women who work for our community are hanging tough and doing their best. 👊👊✌️