HELMETTA – Emergency personnel in Helmetta are staying vigilant and proactive in the wake of the novel coronavirus pandemic, according to Mayor Chris Slavicek.
To date, there are no confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 in the borough.
However, Slavicek issued a message to residents following Gov. Phil Murphy’s Stay at Home order issued on March 22.
Slavicek said the borough’s Office of Emergency Management held a conference call on March 22 with borough administrators, police, fire, emergency medical services [EMS] and Department of Public Works [DPW] to continue stringent efforts of effective communication regarding COVID-19 and safeguarding the community to the best of their ability.
“Each department is prepared and following proper protocol as it relates to this pandemic,” Slavicek said, adding, “It seems as if residents are practicing social distancing and stay at home efforts to flatten the curve, and businesses are abiding by the governor’s Executive Order.”
Murphy’s new restrictions to address COVID-19 concerns became effective at 9 p.m. on March 21.
Gatherings of individuals, such as parties, celebrations, or other social events, are cancelled unless explicitly authorized. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance defines a gathering to include conferences, large meetings, parties, festivals, parades, concerts, sporting events, weddings, and other types of assemblies.
With the restrictions, non-essential retail businesses must close storefront and/or brick-and-mortar premises operations and personal-care businesses – which by their very nature result in noncompliance with social distancing – and must be closed to the public as long as the order remains in effect.
All parks and recreation areas in the borough remain closed until further notice. Walking paths remain open.
Borough offices remain closed until further notice as well. Bill pay is available online and employees are available to assist residents via email, voicemail and over the phone.
“Our focus is to continue superior service for our residents,” Slavicek said. “It is important to me for our dedicated employees and their families to remain safe and healthy.”
Trash and recycling will continue as scheduled. DPW is only available for emergencies.
Slavicek said residents should not hesitate to reach out “should you need to talk, laugh or even cry.”
“An integral component in my role as your community leader is to be the backbone during tough times as such and be a shoulder to lean on,” he said. “I pledge to be always and readily available for anyone in need. Please take this time to cherish your family and friends as we hope for the best outcome. I send a big ‘social distant and virtual’ hug to all of you.”
Slavicek said his team will continue to convey important information and communicate regularly.
For more information, visit helmettaboro.com.