HAZLET – The summer will never began for the 2020 Hazlet pool club season and the Hazlet Recreation summer camp program.
In a June 3 letter to residents, Mayor Michael Glackin announced that both programs have been canceled due to the 2020 coronavirus pandemic. Glackin said he was making the announcement “with great disappointment.”
The mayor wrote that “for many weeks, we have paid close attention to the evolving (coronavirus) health situation.
“As we waited, and continue to wait, on official guidance from the Governor and the state regarding pool clubs, we planned and prepped our popular club for a delayed opening for members and campers.
“Unfortunately, without guidance and after careful consideration regarding the health and safety of the children, the members, the swim team and our seasonal employees, the Township Committee agreed (on June 2) that it will not be possible to save the 2020 season.
“In addition to the health crisis, we also had to consider the challenge of collecting sufficient revenue to run the self-sustaining pool club once an opening is approved,” Glackin wrote.
He said refunds will be available and processed in the near future.
“While we are saddened by the cancellations, we want you to know we will take this opportunity to explore plans for improvements to both the swim club and the Cullen Center that will benefit Hazlet residents of all ages.
“Improvements will include a focus on public safety. We plan to seek every grant and/or outside funding opportunity available to us for the benefit of our residents.
“We know these are difficult times, but we can imagine a better day ahead. We want to be ready for it,” the mayor wrote.