January 2021
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
As we begin the New Year, I would like to thank the residents of Pompton Lakes for their continued support. Together, we weathered through a very difficult past year. I begin 2021 with renewed hope as redevelopment is progressing and a new supermarket, Lidl will be opening in the Pompton Lakes Town Square sometime in late spring.  

The Reorganization Meeting of the Governing Body scheduled for Monday, January 4, 2021 will be held virtual. After the Oath of Office, Councilman Ekamon Venin and Councilwoman Maria Kent will begin their new term of office. I look forward to working with both Councilman Venin and Councilwoman Kent as well as the other members of Council. During the Reorganization Meeting, the Governing Body will transition into the New Year; establish their policy and procedure for business throughout the year. 

I would like to thank all the appointed professionals and consultants for their diligence in providing guidance and direction throughout the year. I would also like to recognize the staff within the Borough of Pompton Lakes for the services they provide for residents on a daily basis. I, along with the Governing Body, appreciate the help and skills the various departments offer residents in town.  

I would encourage residents to visit the Borough website www.pomptonlakes-nj.gov for access to meeting schedules, events, forms, general information, sign up for Emergency Notifications, and online payments. The Borough Facebook page is updated frequently and provides Borough, County and State information. Borough and Town announcements are posted on PLTV channel 77 for those who do not have access to a computer. The Borough Town Calendar is mailed to all residents in the month of June and provides the garbage and recycling pickup schedules, Town activities as well as Board, Committee and Commission meeting schedules. Please be sure you and your extended family are signed up for Emergency Notifications and receive emergency messages via text, email, or by phone.  

We continue to feel the impact from the COVID-19 virus as we go through different phases of the pandemic. While the vaccine provides hope for combatting this disease, I would urge residents to continue to wear masks, social distance and not let your guard down as we are still in the fight. I will continue to provide updates as information becomes available for the vaccine. 

I wish everyone a Healthy and Prosperous New Year!

Until next time,

Mayor Michael Serra 
Borough Clerk's Office
Open Public Meetings Law:

The Open Public Meetings Law, also more commonly referred to as the “Sunshine Law” was established in 1975.  This law provides for the right of all citizens to have adequate advance notice of all public meetings and the right to attend meetings at which any business affecting the public is discussed or acted upon. Adequate advance notice is written notice at least 48 hours and provides the time, date, location, extent and/or agenda for a scheduled meeting. During a meeting the public has the opportunity to witness deliberation, policy formation, and decision making by the Governing Body.  

Due to the COVID pandemic and in an effort to keep everyone safe, the January 2021 and February 2021 Borough Council meetings will be conducted virtually.   

The specific instructions to join a virtual meeting will be available on the Borough website, www.pomptonlakes-nj.gov, or by contacting the Borough Clerk. Consistent with the New Jersey Open Public Meetings Act, the Meeting will be opened for public comments. Public comments may be made at designated times during the meeting and may be submitted in writing to be read aloud during the remote meeting. Comments to be read at the meeting must be submitted at least 24 hours prior to the meeting by email or to the Clerk’s office at 25 Lenox Avenue, Pompton Lakes, NJ and must be of a length that can reasonably be read within the time limit for public comment.

DESIGNATING 2021 COUNCIL MEETINGS
BOROUGH OF POMPTON LAKES   
 
WHEREAS, Public Laws of 1975, Chapter 23, Open Public Meetings Act, permits the Mayor and Council to establish a schedule of regular Council Meetings,

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the Borough of Pompton Lakes:

1. The Meetings will begin at 7:30pm
3. Special Meetings may be called by the Mayor as required
4. The dates for the Regular Council Meetings are as follows:

Reorganization Council Meeting:
  • January 4, 2020 – 6:30pm
Regular Council Meetings:
  • January 13 and 27, 2021
  • July 14, 2021
  • February 10 and 24, 2021      
  • August 11, 2021
  • March 10 and 24, 2021
  • September 1 and 22, 2021
  • April 14 and 28, 2021
  • October 13 and 27. 2021
  • May 12 and 26, 2021
  • November 10, 2021
  • June 9 and 23, 2021
  • December 8, 2021

The Public Notice shall be mailed to the Suburban Trends, the Record, and the Star Ledger Newspapers, posted on the bulletin board in the Municipal Building and mailed to any who request and pay for same.  

Happy New Year,
Elizabeth Brandsness, R.M.C.
Municipal Clerk/Deputy Administrator
973-835-0143 ext. 238
clerk@pomptonlakes-nj.gov
Recent News
Passaic County Announces Upcoming COVID-19 Mobile Testing Dates and Times
The Passaic County Board of County Commissioners is offering FREE COVID-19 testing throughout the County. A pop-up mobile testing site will stop in each municipality for a full day of on-site testing. 

PCTVS testing sites will be open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Regular testing site hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

These sites will test patients using the saliva test. No eating, drinking, smoking, or chewing gum at least 30 minutes prior to testing. Results are available 48 to 72 hours after the test. 

Please bring a smartphone or tablet for registration. 
Governor Murphy Signs Executive Order Extending Public Health Emergency in New Jersey
Governor Phil Murphy today signed Executive Order No. 210. The Order extends the Public Health Emergency that was declared on March 9, 2020 through Executive Order No. 103, which was previously extended on April 7, May 6, June 4, July 2, August 1, August 27, September 25, October 24, and November 21. Under the Emergency Health Powers Act, a declared public health emergency expires after 30 days unless renewed.
Executive Order No. 210 extends all Executive Orders issued under the Governor’s authority under the Emergency Health Powers Act. It also extends all actions taken by any Executive Branch departments and agencies in response to the Public Health Emergency presented by the COVID-19 outbreak.

For the full text of Executive Order No. 210, click here.
Governor Murphy Announces Senior Freeze Property Tax Program Deadline Extended
Governor Murphy announced today that the deadline for Senior Freeze Property Tax Relief Program has been extended until February 1, 2021. Visit nj.gov/treasury for more information.
Governor Murphy Announces New State of New Jersey Vaccine Information Website
Governor Murphy announced that the State of New Jersey now has a central online location for official vaccine-related information – and a landing page for a Vaccine Registration portal in the near future.
Remember: You Are Not Alone
The holidays can be hard on mental health – and even more so during this pandemic. If you're feeling down and need to talk:

  • Crisis Text Line: Text “NJ” to 741741
  • Family Helpline: 1-800-843-5437
  • Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-572-7233
  • Mental Health Hotline: 866-202-4357
STILL ONGOING: Pompton Lakes Environmental Protection Committee Announces River Clean Up Pledge: Keep Our Rivers and Streams Free of Debris
The Pompton Lakes Environmental Protection Committee has announced a river cleanup campaign as COVID-19 has forced the in person river clean up event to be cancelled.


Take the pledge here, and return to the Borough of Pompton Lakes, Attn: Borough Clerk, 25 Lenox Avenue, Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442 or email it to clerk@pomptonlakes-nj.gov.
Pompton Lakes Health Department Flu Clinic Continues Into 2021: Make An Appointment
The Borough of Pompton Lakes Health Department has announced Flu Vaccine Clinics for ages 3 and up. Appointments are required - no walk ins. Register at (973) 835-0143, ext. 235.

The fee is $15 check or exact cash only. The vaccine is free with Medicare Part B.

This is available every Monday from 2:30 p.m. - 4:15 p.m., and from 2:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. on October 5th and 19th at the Borough Hall, 25 Lenox Avenue, Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442.
Borough of Pompton Lakes Collecting Plastic Film Through Trex Recycling Program
The Borough of Pompton Lakes is collecting plastic film through the Trex Plastic Film Recycling Program. This programs helps the Borough earn a free community bench for every 500 pounds recycled.

Drop off locations include:
  • Borough Hall
  • Library
  • St. Mary's Church
  • Lenox School (Closed due to COVID-19)
  • Lincoln School (Closed due to COVID-19)
  • Lakeside Middle School (Closed due to COVID-19)

Plastics to collect:
  • Bread bags
  • Newspaper sleeves
  • Plastic bags
  • Ice bags
  • Case overlap
Pompton Lakes Library Opening Procedures and Guidelines
The library is currently open to the public, with some restrictions:

  1. Masks need to be worn and social distancing should be observed.
  2. Due to the size of the building, and restrictions on occupancy, there is a limit of 7 library patrons at a time. There is a possibility one will need to temporarily wait outside.
  3. Computers are available, but we ask that patrons limit their online session to 45 minutes.
  4. Printer/Scanner/Fax are available.
  5. We ask that patrons keep their visit to under 45 minutes.
  6. Hand sanitizing stations and wipes are available around the building. Patrons are encouraged to use them before and after using computers and/or handling materials.
The delivery of materials between libraries has resumed. 
 
Holds may now be placed on materials from other PALS Plus member libraries and picked up at the Pompton Lakes Library:

Pompton Lakes Library
Explore and stay informed on local and national topics, people and events in areas such as business, health, education, jobs and careers, political and social issues and more. Features a wide variety of credible, vetted news sources spanning the U.S., including The Record, The Star Ledger, and Suburban Trends. Available remotely 24/7 on any device with your library card!
Passaic County Announces Music and Movement Classes
The Passaic County Board of Commissioners has announced a Music and Movement Class on January 5, 2021 and February 2, 2021 for ages 1-6 years old. Register at www.passaiccountyrec.org. This class is live streamed on the County's Facebook Page.
Add Your Phone to the COVID-19 Fight; Download COVID-19 Alert App
Add your phone to the COVID fight!

Download COVID Alert NJ, State of New Jersey's new app to help stop COVID-19 in New Jersey. Join the movement and protect your community by downloading COVID Alert NJ for free in the App Store and on Google Play Store.

Learn more at covid19.nj.gov/app
Garbage and Recycling News
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:
January 13 & 27
 
Borough Wide Paper Pickup: January 6 & 20
 
Metal: Every Monday and Thursday
 
Garbage: Please refer to the Borough Calendar for Garbage Collection dates
 
First Responders Flash Briefing
Pompton Lakes Police Completes Successful Toy Drive
The Pompton Lakes Police Department 2020 Toy Drive is complete, and what a success!!! We were able to hand out toys to over 70 children in town. Without the help and donations from Lakeside Middle School Student Council, Pompton Lakes Education Association, Chamber of Commerce, Home Field Advantage, and all of you who dropped off a gift at police headquarters none of this would be possible. We hope everyone has a happy and healthy New Year.
Reminder - Snow Parking Rules and Regulations During Winter Months
The Pompton Lakes Police Department would like to remind residents about the rules and regulations during a snow event. Borough ordinance states that when the snow accumulates to such a depth that snow removal or plowing is necessary on our roadways, street parking is not allowed.
Pompton Lakes Police Department Welcomes Newest Member
The Pompton Lakes Police Department would like to welcome its newest police officer, Patrolman Majer Biokua. Patrolman Biokua graduated the Morris County Police Academy yesterday and began his field training today. We are proud to have him in our department and wish him the best of luck in our patrol division.
Pompton Lakes Fire Department Hosts Successful Santa Drive By
Since Santa could not arrive at our usual town Stroll celebration, he and Mrs. Santa led a parade of emergency services to see everyone. We set up an interactive map so people could follow his path around town, and we slowed the procession down. We added our Police and First Aid Squad, to represent the town's other first responders. And, best of all, Santa and Mrs. Santa got to see most of the smiling faces along the route. We wish you all a very Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and Happy New Year! Be kind and be safe!
Downtown Pompton Lakes is Open for Business!
Pompton Lakes Borough Council
Mayor Michael Serra

Council Members
Council President - Ekamon Venin
William Baig, Maria Kent, Terri Reicher, Erik DeLine, Jennifer Polidori

Submit Content: plsocialmedia@pomptonlakes-NJ.gov

(c) 2021 Borough of Pompton Lakes
Borough of Pompton Lakes, New Jersey
25 Lenox Avenue, Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442 | (973) 835-0143 |