July 2020
Greetings!

Here's the latest information about things going on in the Borough of Pompton Lakes this month, assembled and produced by the Public Information Department.
Mayor Serra's Message
The Municipal Building is open for residents. 

As you celebrate the 4 th of July, Independence Day, I would like to wish everyone a happy and safe day! It will be challenging to participate in the normal festivities while practicing social distancing and wearing face coverings. I would encourage residents to continue to make good choices and follow the guidelines that have been issued by our State and local officials. Pompton Lakes residents are resilient – we have experienced many challenges and we bond together and become stronger as a community.  

Due to an abundance of caution and growing concerns of increased traffic in our community the town wide garage sale has been postponed to Saturday, September 26, 2020.

The Borough of Pompton Lakes and Business Improvement District are co-sponsoring a Shred-It day scheduled for Saturday, July 11 th form 9:00am to 12:00noon in the Pondhole Parking Lot behind the Rhino Theatre.
  
The Borough of Pompton Lakes 2020-2021 Calendar and Information Reference Guide has been mailed to all residents. Please refer to the Calendar for schedules, department information as well as garbage and recycling collection regulations.  

I would like to extend my congratulations to all the students who are graduating this year. Whether you were attending one of the elementary schools, Lincoln or Lenox, the middle school, Lakeside, or Pompton Lakes High School life has changed from the way you knew it. During these unprecedented times, students have had to adjust to distance learning, missing traditions and celebrations. Be proud of what you accomplished – the future is yours! 

As we enter the various phases of re-opening, I would urge residents to frequent local businesses. The past several months have been difficult and the Business Improvement District has worked tireless to assure our businesses thrived during the pandemic. Many local restaurants and eateries adapted during COVID-19 and provided curbside pick-up. As restrictions ease, Mayor, Council and Borough officials are committed to assisting businesses with achieving compliance so they can resume business.
   
Passaic County sponsored a Food Distribution Drive-Thru relief program on June 10 th in the High School parking lot. Myself, along with some councilmembers participated in the event and helped with distributing food. Passaic County also sponsors a COVID-Mobile Testing program at no cost for County residents. The County has scheduled the mobile unit for July 10 th at the High School parking lot for Passaic County residents. I would like to thank the County for providing these services for residents. 

With warmer weather, there has been increased recreational activities on the lake. Many residents have voiced concerns with speeding and carelessness on the lake with jet skiers and boaters. Jet skis are prohibited on the lake. The Governing Body along with the Police Department have discussed implementing boating restrictions. An Ordinance to establish hours for boating will be introduced during the July Council Meeting.  
  
Pompton Lakes has been recognized by Trans Options (Street Smart Campaign) for achieving a gold level status. The program encourages children to safely walk or bicycle to school. During the summer months be cautious when driving especially when pedestrians are present. Remember you must stop if a pedestrian is in the cross walk – it is the law. 

Although our COVID numbers in this area have been on the decline, we still need to continue to adhere to the COVID restrictions.  Be safe.

Until next time,

Mayor Michael Serra  

Borough Clerk's Office
As we continue to navigate through the COVID-19 pandemic please be mindful with changes for the upcoming Primary Election scheduled for Tuesday, July 7, 2020.
 
All registered voters will be receiving information regarding the Primary Election. Passaic County Clerk, Danielle Ireland-Imhof has provided detailed instructions for those who wish to vote in the Primary Election. 
 
Unaffiliated voters will need to declare their party prior to receiving your Vote-by-Mail ballot. You will receive instructions as to the process for declaring your political party in the mail.    
 
Please carefully read the instructions prior to returning your Vote-by-Mail ballot. 
 
  • Voters may choose to mail the completed Vote-by-Mail ballot through the Post Office or place in one of the secure drop boxes that are located within Passaic County; Ringwood, Wayne, Passaic or Clifton Municipal Complex – Paterson at 401 Grand Street
  • VOTE-BY-MAIL BALLOT will not be accepted in the Clerk’s office
  • All six polling district sites have been consolidated into one location – Lenox School All Purpose Room
  • Primary Election day voters will not be able to vote by machine unless they are disabled 
  • If a resident voter goes to polling location / Lenox School on the day of the Primary Election they will be instructed to vote provisional paper ballot
  • VOTE-BY-MAIL BALLOT will not be accepted by poll workers on day of the Primary Election  
 
For additional information on the Primary Election please go to Borough social media – website – channel PLTV77 or Passaic County Elections site or call my office at 973-835-0124 ext, 238.
 
The 2020-2021 Borough Calendar Information and Reference Guide has been mailed to all Borough residents. Please refer to the new calendar for general information, garbage and recycling schedules, meeting schedules and department guidelines and contact information. The 2020-2021 Borough Calendar Information and Reference Guide will be posted on the Borough website.       

Elizabeth Brandsness, RMC
Municipal Clerk/Deputy Administrator
973-835-0143 ext. 238

Top Stories
Pompton Lakes Police Department Shares Rules and Regulations for Pompton Lakes for the Summer Season
We have recently received several complaints from the public regarding the boating restrictions on Pompton Lake. We have reviewed video footage and have fielded complaints from numerous individuals who have experienced unsafe conditions while operating a boat or kayak on Pompton Lake.
Jet skis and similar devices are strictly prohibited. The dimensions of the lake are not conducive to people utilizing multiple jet skis, power boats, canoes, paddleboats, kayaks, and fishing boats at the same time. It becomes hazardous and makes for an unsafe environment. We will strictly enforce borough ordinance 11-3.2 and borough ordinance 11.3.3. These ordinances prohibit motors with more than 10 horsepower and prevent boats from exceeding the speed limit of 10 MPH. Borough ordinance 11-3.6 specifies hours of operation on the lake. We will be enforcing daily hour restrictions of one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset. We will NOT be enforcing the 12:00PM restriction on Sundays. Wayne Township has restrictions that mirror those of Pompton Lakes. All hours, speeds, and horsepower restrictions are enforceable on Wayne’s portion of the lake as well. While some may not agree with the regulations set forward, we must do our part to ensure the safety of everyone who would like to utilize and enjoy the lake. Thank you for your cooperation.

Please see the following borough ordinances and review the below link which outlines applicable boating statutes in the State of New Jersey.
11-3.1 Mufflers required on motors.

No person or persons shall operate or ride in any motorboat or powerboat upon such part of Pompton Lakes or other waters as lie within the Borough of Pompton Lakes or bound the Borough, whether driven by a motor or engine built into such boat or by what is commonly termed and known as an "outboard or detachable motor," without a muffler on such motor or engine, or which shall make or cause any loud or obnoxious noise or noises. (1983 Code § 75-1)

11-3.2 Horsepower restricted on inboard motors.

No person or persons shall operate or ride in any motorboat or powerboat upon such part of Pompton Lakes or other waters as lie within the Borough of Pompton Lakes or bound the Borough, which boat is propelled or driven by a motor or engine built into such boat, commonly known as an "inboard motor," of a horsepower greater than 10 horsepower S.A.E. rating. (1983 Code § 75-2)

11-3.3 Horsepower restricted on outboard motors; exception.

No person or persons shall operate or ride in any motorboat or powerboat upon such part of Pompton Lakes or other waters as lie within the Borough of Pompton Lakes or bound the Borough, which boat is propelled or driven by a motor or engine commonly known as an "outboard or detachable motor," of a horsepower greater than 10 manufacturer's advertised horsepower, excepting boats used for police or municipal work. (1983 Code § 75-3)

11-3.4 Disturbing the peace.

No person or persons shall, while riding in any boat, motorboat, canoe or raft upon Pompton Lakes or other waters within the bounds of the Borough of Pompton Lakes or upon or near the banks of said lake or other waters, make any loud or unnecessary noise or use any profane, indecent or obscene language or, by any quarreling, shouting or otherwise, disturb the public peace in the Borough. (1983 Code § 75-4)
11-3.5 Speed limit established.

No person or persons shall operate any motorboat or powerboat upon such part of Pompton Lakes or other waters as lie within the Borough of Pompton Lakes or bound the Borough at a speed to exceed 10 miles per hour. (1983 Code § 75-5)
11-3.6 Times of operation.

No person or persons shall operate any motorboat or powerboat upon such part of Pompton Lakes or other waters as lie within the Borough of Pompton Lakes or bound the Borough, except during the following periods of each day:
A. Between one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset on each weekday and on Saturday.
B. Between 12:00 noon and one hour after sunset on Sundays.
(1983 Code § 75-6)
11-3.7 Violations and penalties.
Each and every person violating any of the provisions of this section shall, upon conviction thereof, forfeit and pay a fine of not more than $100 or be imprisoned in the County Jail for not more than 10 days, and the Judge before whom any such person may be brought may impose such punishment by fine or imprisonment in the County Jail as he may see fit, not exceeding the maximum herein fixed. (1983 Code § 75-7)
Passaic County and the NJEDA Extend the Deadline for the COVID-19 Small Business Grant Program
(Passaic County, NJ – June 30, 2020) – To maximize the impact of federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding contributed by Passaic County, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) is extending the deadline for business owners to apply for Phase 2 of the Small Business Emergency Assistance Grant Program through July 8 th , 2020 at 5:00 p.m. Small business owners and nonprofit organizations can apply at https://forms.business.nj.gov/grant-2/ .
“The grant extension is great news for our small businesses and non-profit organizations in Passaic County,” stated Freeholder Director Sandi Lazzara. “Our county benefits from every single small business and social service agency in our community, and we urge those who haven’t applied yet to take advantage of this opportunity to help alleviate some of the financial burdens this pandemic has caused.”

The Small Business Emergency Assistance Grant Program provides grants up to $10,000 to small businesses and nonprofits impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the NJEDA announced the program, Passaic, Ocean, and Essex Counties each contributed $10 million in CARES Act funding to support grants for businesses and organizations in those specific counties. The deadline extension will ensure these funds are used to their full potential by providing additional time for businesses to apply for grants.

Applications for the Small Business Emergency Assistance Grant Program are available at https://forms.business.nj.gov/grant-2/ . Comprehensive information about New Jersey’s coronavirus response is available at https://cv.business.nj.gov

The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) serves as the State’s principal agency for driving economic growth. The NJEDA is committed to making New Jersey a national model for inclusive and sustainable economic development by focusing on key strategies to help build strong and dynamic communities, create good jobs for New Jersey residents, and provide pathways to a stronger and fairer economy.

To learn more about NJEDA resources for businesses, residents may call NJEDA Customer Care at 609-858-6767 or visit https://www.njeda.com .

Passaic County Board of Chosen Freeholders Announce More Food Distribution Dates
Paterson, NJ – Passaic County Board of Chosen Freeholders is announcing more dates for the emergency food distribution events that are going to take place across Passaic County. All Passaic County families are eligible to receive one box with non-perishable food items, upon showing proof of residency at specified dates and locations to be announced in the coming week.
The first emergency food distribution event is taking place on June 3rd at 1:00 PM at the Lambert Castle, 3 Valley Road, Paterson, New Jersey. The Board is distributing up to five hundred (500) boxes of food on a first come, first served basis. Residents are to stay in their vehicles, with windows shut, and will be instructed to open their trunks to receive a box of food.

“Right now, Passaic County families are struggling with the devastating economic impact of the COVID-19 global pandemic,” stated Passaic County Freeholder Director Sandi Lazzara. “The Passaic County Board of Chosen Freeholders is taking proactive steps to ensure that every family in Passaic County has food security, and no one is going hungry. These emergency food distribution events will take place on a daily basis throughout the next two months, to ensure residents in every municipality in Passaic County are able to participate. I want to thank First Lady Tammy Murphy for joining at the first event, to help raise awareness for this important new resource being offered to Passaic County families.”

Last month, the Passaic County Board of Chosen Freeholders secured over $87 million dollars in Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) funding from the federal government to respond to the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency in Passaic County. A portion of that funding is being used for these emergency food distribution events to ensure compliance with public health precautions, and ensure seniors and other vulnerable populations have access to food security.

“Every day we are hearing stories about struggling families in Passaic County who do not have access to food because of the Public Health Emergency,” stated Passaic County Freeholder Bruce James. “This Board is taking proactive steps to ensure food security for every Passaic County family as we weather the devastating economic impacts of the Public Health Emergency.”
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Resources
Mobile COVID-19 Testing Coming to Pompton Lakes
Passaic County is hosting COVID-19 Mobile Testing at various Passaic County Municipalities. The times are 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. First hour is dedicated to first responders and healthcare workers. You must have an I.D.

  • Wednesday July 1 - Passaic Valley High
  • Thursday July 2 - School No. 25 Paterson
  • Monday July 6 - School No. 4 Paterson
  • Wednesday July 8 - Manchester High
  • Friday July 10 - Pompton Lakes High School
  • Monday July 13 - Paterson Catholic
  • Wednesday July 15 - Passaic Community College
  • Friday July 17 - School No. 27 Paterson
  • Monday July 20 - School No. 11 Paterson

Saliva Swab Test. Must bring ID and smart phone for registration. No eating, drinking, or smoking 30 minutes before testing. For more information, visit passaiccountynj.org/covid19.
Upcoming Public Meetings
Borough Council Meeting: July 15, 2020 at 7:30 p.m. Meeting Information will be posted to the Borough Website as it becomes available.

Garbage and Recycling Cheat Sheet
The Borough of Pompton Lakes would like to inform residents on what is accepted in recycling.

Accepted Materials:
  • Mixed Paper, Office Paper, and Envelopes
  • Corrugated Cardboard (flatten and/or cut into bundles)
  • Telephone Books and Soft Cover Books
  • Glass Food and Beverage Jars (all colors)
  • Aluminum & Metal Beverage Containers
  • Pet Food Cans
  • Milk Jugs and Plastic Beverage Bottles
  • Detergent and Shampoo Containers
  • Juice Boxes & Juice/Beverage Cartons
  • Plastic with #1, #2, or #5 Symbols

Not Accepted:
  • Plastic Bags
  • Pizza Boxes
  • Light Bulbs
  • Aluminum Foil & Baking Pans
  • Drinking Glasses, Dishes, and Broken Window Glass
  • Ceramics and Pottery
  • Aerosol Cans
  • Motor Oil and Anti-Freeze Containers
  • Clothes Hangers
  • Cookie Tins and Bandage Tins
  • Carbon and Waxed Paper
  • Tissue Paper, Napkins, Paper Plates, and Paper Towels
  • Styrofoam
  • Plastics with #3, #4, #6, and #7 Symbols.

Any questions can be directed to the Department of Public Works at (973) 616-5900.
Recycling Center

The Borough Recycling Center is located on Grove Street and is open to all Borough Residents and Businesses. Residents and Businesses must display on their mirror or show the attendant a valid Borough decal or I.D. upon entering the Center. The Center is open Monday through Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.
 
The Recycling Center offers biodegradable lawn and leaf bags at a cost of $.35 cents per bag. The following materials are accepted at the Recycling Center:

  • Grass Clippings
  • Leaves, Brush & Tree Limbs (max length 8 ft; max diameter 2 inch)
  • Co-mingled Glass, Plastic & Metal Recyclables
  • Aluminum cans - must be separated from other co-mingled recyclables
  • Paper & Cardboard Recyclables
  • Corrugated Cardboard – must be separated from other paper recyclables
  • Electronic Equipment & Computers
  • Metals
  • Waste Engine Oil
  • Car Batteries
 
Tires may be brought to the Recycling Center at a cost of $2.50 per tire without the rim and $5.00 per tire with rim. Propane tanks are not accepted at the Recycling Center.
 
LEAVING MATERIALS AT THE RECYCLING CENTER GATE WHEN THE CENTER IS CLOSED IS CONSIDERED ILLEGAL DUMPING AND PUNISHABLE BY FINES AND/OR IMPRISONMENT.
Recycling No Paper:
July 8 & 22
 
Borough Wide Paper Pickup: July 1 & 15
 
Metal: Every Monday and Thursday
 
Garbage: Please refer to the Borough Calendar for Garbage Collection dates
 
Plastic Film Recycling
The Borough of Pompton Lakes is currently accepting plastic film in the Borough Hall Lobby as the Lobby remains open during the COVID-19 pandemic.

What is accepted:
  • Newspaper sleeves
  • Bread bags
  • Cereal Liners
  • Ice Bags
  • Amazon Poly Mailers
  • USPS Flat Rate Bubble Mailers
  • Salt Bags
  • Dry Clothing Bags
  • and MUCH MORE!

Help us earn a FREE Community Bench!
Shredding Day
The Borough of Pompton Lakes will hold a Shredding Day on Saturday July 11, 2020 from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at the Pondhole Parking Lot (Behind Rhino Theatre). Safe and secure shredding of your documents. Shredder destroys any staples and binder clips, books, and much more.

New Procedure:
Place your shredding materials in the trunk of your vehicle. Once you arrive at the shredding station, the host will take materials out of your car and dump contents into a security bin for transport into the mobile shredding unit. Once prompted, you may drive away.

This event is free and rain or shine.
Do Not Put Gloves and Masks in Recycling!
IMPORTANT: Please do not put used gloves and masks into recycling! They are NOT considered household recycling and should be properly disposed of as trash (in bags). Thank you!
Pompton Lakes Library

Digital resources are available with your library card:

All materials currently checked out have had their due dates extended to a minimum of May 15. 

Do not feel a rush to return materials. 

Fines will be waived in May.

Library updates are available at:


If you need help with your library card, need to get one, or have any questions please email the library at [email protected] . You may also call at 973-835-0482 and leave a message if no one is able to take your call.

​The book drop is open to return materials, but do not feel a rush to return them.
Community Announcements
PLRYO
We are opening Fall registration at this time to gain player participation across all sports. Due to the occurrence of COVID-19, registration will only be used to gauge player participation and no fee will be due at this time. An invoice will be sent at a later date once State and League guidelines have been approved. 

PLRYO
Our next general meeting will be Wednesday 7/1/20 8:00 pm at Carlough Field (picnic table area), weather permitting. All members are encouraged to attend if you feel comfortable doing so, as we will be sure to abide by social distancing and crowd capacity guidelines put forth by the state and our local jurisdiction. Hope to see you there!
Prevention Coalition
The Pompton Lakes Prevention Coalition presents a FREE webinar on SAMHSA's "Talk, They Hear You". This is a prevention campaign that helps parents and caregivers start talking to their children about the dangers of alcohol and other drugs. The summer break is always a good time to initiate these conversations with youth. Take advantage of this at home and visit www.pomptonlakes-nj.gov/240/prevention-coalition. Under the "webinars" tab click on "Talk. They Hear You".

Trails Committee
Trail Maintenance Events for 2020:

  • September 20 at 2 p.m.
  • Demarest Nature Center
  • Wakeless Drive, Demarest
  • November 8 at 2 p.m.
  • Norvin Green State Forest
  • New Weiss Center
  • Snake Den Road, Ringwood

Maintenance Days - 2020:
  • Meet at Willow Field Back Parking Lot, bring gloves, hand tools. Trash Bags are supplied.
  • July 12 at 9 a.m.
  • August 16 at 9 a.m.
  • September 26 at 10 a.m.
  • November 19 at 10 a.m.

Pompton Lakes School District
The Pompton Lakes Public School District would like to inform students and parents that U.S. Department of Agriculture provides FREE summer meals for students when school is out.

Who is Eligible?
  • Children ages 18 years or younger who come to an approved open site or to a site in which they are enrolled.
  • Adults over 18 years of age who are enrolled in school programs for persons with disabilities may also received needs.
  • At sites that require enrollment, benefits are also available only to children who receive free or reduced price meals at school.

Follow the Borough of Pompton Lakes!


Passaic County
Passaic County
The Passaic County Board of Chosen Freeholders and Passaic County Parks & Recreation Department invite you to join us for a drive-in movie at the Preakness Valley Golf Course! We'll be watching "Sonic the Hedgehog!"

Cost: FREE
Limit: 75 cars, registration required - https://bit.ly/3g2af2d

Free popcorn will be provided for each car.

You can bring your own snacks or In The Drink Restaurant will be providing a special menu for you to purchase from (cash & card accepted).
Passaic County
Passaic County is hosting various document shredding events:

  • Saturday July 11, 2020
  • Senior Services, 930 Riverview Drive, Totowa, NJ
  • Saturday September 12, 2020
  • Haledon Borough Hall, 510 Belmont Avenue, Haledon, NJ
  • Saturday November 21, 2020
  • The Paterson Museum, 2 Market Street, Paterson, NJ

The collection sites are open from 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. or until the truck is full. The event is rain or shine.

COVID-19 Rules:
  • 1 person per car
  • Must wear a mask
  • 6 ft. social distancing
Accepted Materials:
  • Old checks
  • Bank statements
  • Utility Bills
  • Tax Returns
  • Computer Printouts
  • Medical Information
  • Envelopes, Paper, Newspaper, Letterhead
  • Staples

Unaccepted Materials:
  • Metal binders
  • Plastics
  • Overnight shipping envelopes
  • Carbon paper
  • Any other non-paper items
Passaic County
Passaic County is hosting various computer and electronics recycling events:

  • Friday August 28, 2020
  • Saturday August 29, 2020
  • Buehlers Cultural Center Parking Lot, 950 High Mountain Road, North Haledon, NJ
  • Friday October 2, 2020
  • Saturday October 3, 2020
  • Passaic County Arts Center, John W. Rea House, 675 Goffle Road, Hawthorne, NJ

Collection sites are open from 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. rain or shine.

COVID-19 Rules:
  • 1 person per car
  • Must wear a mask
  • Stay in car
  • 6 ft. social distancing
Accepted Materials:
  • All types of computer equipment
  • Monitors
  • Hard drives
  • Cell phones
  • Copiers and printers
  • Video Game consoles
  • and much more!

Not Acceptable:
  • Refrigerators
  • Freezers
  • Air Conditioners
  • Washers/Dryers
Passaic County
Passaic County is hosting Household Hazardous Waste Collections for 2020:

  • Sunday July 19, 2020
  • West Milford Recycling Center, 30 Lycosky Drive
  • Sunday August 30, 2020
  • PCCC Wanaque Campus, 500 Union Avenue, Wanaque, NJ.
  • Saturday September 26, 2020
  • Passaic City Hall, Employee Parking Lot, 333 Passaic Street, Passaic, NJ
  • Saturday October 24, 2020
  • Ringwood Park and Ride, 30 Cannici Drive, Ringwood, NJ
  • Sunday November 22, 2020
  • PCCC Wanaque Campus, 500 Union Avenue, Wanaque, NJ

Proof of Passaic County residence is required upon entry.
Accepted Materials:
  • Pesticides
  • Herbicides
  • Solvents and Thinners
  • Varnishes and Waxes
  • Corrosives and Cleaners
  • Pool Chemicals
  • Aerosol Cans
  • Kerosene
  • Car Batteries
  • Used Motor Oil
  • Antifreeze
  • Flares
  • Oil Filters
  • Fire Extinguishers
  • Mercury Thermometers
  • Propane Tanks

Not Acceptable Materials:
  • Explosives
  • Dioxins
  • Electronics
  • Radioactive
  • Latex Paint
  • Tires
  • Silvex
  • Medical Waste
Passaic County
Forest bathing is a mindful walk in the woods with the specific intention to connect with the natural world and to gain benefit and energy from it. In other words, you are bathing in the energy of the trees, leaves, sky, and earth. Think of it as a guided, meditative, healing walk through the forests of Garret Mountain Reservation. Groups will meet at the boathouse parking lot.
This event will be hosted by Gerti Schoen:
Gerti Schoen is a psychotherapist, spiritual counselor, and forest therapy guide in NYC and NJ. Over the past 20 years, she has studied eco-feminist spirituality, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral approaches, Eastern philosophy, energy healing, nature connection, dream work and shamanic practices, and has come to greatly appreciate how much these teachings help in the healing process.

Ways to Take Care of Mental Health
Mental health affects how we think, feel, and act. It may also affect how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices during an emergency. Public health actions, such as social distancing, can make people feel isolated and lonely and can increase stress and anxiety. However, these actions are necessary to reduce the spread of COVID-19. 

Ways to Take Care of Your Mental Health:

  • Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including those on social media.
  • Take care of your body.
  • Take deep breaths, stretch, or meditate.
  • Eat healthy, well-balanced meals.
  • Exercise regularly and get plenty of sleep.
  • Avoid excessive alcohol use and drugs.
  • Make time to unwind and do activities you enjoy.
  • Connect with others. Check in with your loved ones often.
  • Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling.
  • While social distancing measures are in place, consider connecting online, through social media or email, or by phone or mail.

If you or a loved one is feeling overwhelmed, get support 24/7 by calling 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746.
First Responders Flash Briefing
Pompton Lakes Police Department
Pompton Lakes Police Department Reminds Residents about Coronavirus Scams
We have recently seen an increase in the number of scams being orchestrated against unsuspecting citizens.

These are despicable people who view the pandemic as a golden opportunity to take advantage of someone. Please stay informed and never blindly give personal information or money to someone that you don't know and trust. If something doesn't seem right, there's a good chance it isn't. You can always call us (973-835-0400) if you have doubts. We have recently seen a number of bail bond scams and COVID stimulus scams.
In the bail bond scams, people will pose as a bail bondsman and indicate that a relative of yours has been arrested and placed in jail. In order for that person to be released, you will be required to post their bail. A courier will then either respond to your home to collect the bail money or ask that you wire it to them. Under no circumstances should you give them any of your money or personal information. We ask that you call the police immediately.
Scammers are also using these stimulus payments to try to rip people off. They might try to get you to pay a fee to get your stimulus payment or they might try to convince you to give them your Social Security number, bank account, or government benefits debit card account number.

Tips for avoiding a Coronavirus stimulus payment scam:

  • Only use irs.gov/coronavirus to submit information to the IRS – and never in response to a call, text, or email.
  • The IRS won’t contact you by phone, email, text message, or social media with information about your stimulus payment, or to ask you for your Social Security number, bank account, or government benefits debit card account number. Anyone who does is a scammer phishing for your information.
  • You don’t have to pay to get your stimulus money.
  • The IRS won’t tell you to deposit your stimulus check then send them money back because they paid you more than they owed you. That’s a fake check scam.
  • Report scams to the Federal Trade Commission at ftc.gov/complaint
Community ShareCam Program
Community Share Cam is a community safety program instituted by the Pompton Lakes Police Department which allows both residents and businesses to partner with the PLPD in the fight against crime throughout the Borough. Simply by registering YOUR home or business surveillance system with the Pompton Lakes Police, YOU can be an invaluable asset in solving crimes in your neighborhood.
When a crime occurs in your neighborhood, the Pompton Lakes Police will call on YOU and request a copy of YOUR video footage. This footage will help establish leads, identify suspects and save valuable investigative time. All registered camera locations are stored in a secure database and are entered into our Records Management System allowing the PLPD to map out locations of cameras throughout the Borough. Community ShareCam DOES NOT provide the Pompton Lakes Police with direct access to YOUR surveillance system. Residents and businesses will only be contacted by the PLPD in the event of a crime occurring in the area of your camera coverage.
“Pompton Lakes Police Department and you working together as neighbors”

To participate in the Community Share Cam Program register your information using the link below.

For further information contact the Detective Bureau at 973-835-3992

REMINDER: Complete the US Census!
The 2020 Census is happening now. You can respond online using your computer, smartphone, or tablet. The image included in this post is a “QR Code” that can be scanned with a phone camera and will take you directly to the #Census questionnaire. If you do not have access to a phone camera, the other options to respond to the #2020Census are online, by phone, or by mail. The online questionnaire is offered in 12 non-English Languages. Help our community today by filling out the Census!! Complete the Census at 2020CENSUS.GOV.
Contact the Mayor and Borough Council
Michael Serra, Mayor - [email protected]
Ekamon Venin, Council President - [email protected]
Terri Reicher, Councilwoman - [email protected]
Erik DeLine, Councilman- [email protected]
William Baig, Councilman - [email protected]
Frank Jaconetta, Councilman - [email protected]
Jennifer Polidori, Councilwoman - [email protected]
Pompton Lakes Borough Council
Mayor Michael Serra

Council Members
Council President - Ekamon Venin
William Baig, Frank Jaconetta, Terri Reicher, Erik DeLine, Jennifer Polidori

Submit Content: [email protected]

(c) 2020 Borough of Pompton Lakes
Borough of Pompton Lakes, New Jersey
25 Lenox Avenue, Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442 | (973) 835-0143 |