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.
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Although January was a mild month and we did not experience any significant snowfall, I would continue to remind all residents to remove their vehicles from roadways during snow events until the roadways are cleared. During snow events basketball hoops must be removed from roadways, snow must be cleared from sidewalks, no snow should be pushed into roadways and residents should clear the snow around fire hydrants. Please be safe in the winter months.
As we settle into the New Year, I would like to welcome all newly appointed and reappointed members to their board, commission or committee. Pompton Lakes is fortunate to have a core group of volunteers to move our Borough forward and I thank you for volunteering and sharing your talents. A Council Liaison has been assigned to each individual, board, commission and committee to establish communication with the Governing Body and the liaison will report activities, concerns or accomplishments during Council Meetings. If you are interested in serving on a board, commission or committee please contact me or the Municipal Clerk to further discuss.
We continue to work through the COVID-19 pandemic and for the month of February all Borough meetings will continue to be held remotely to assure the safety of our staff, volunteers, and residents as well as in an effort to slow down the spread of the virus. Administrative offices within the Borough remain opened with restricted access for residents. The staff is available through telephone or email. Many of the forms and services are available on the website or in the Lobby of the Municipal Building. Please continue to refer to the Borough website, Facebook, Borough Town Calendar and Public Television Channel PLTV77 for the latest information. Residents have the ability to make a tax payment online.
I recently provided the Oath of Office to members within the Pompton Lakes Riverdale First Aid Squad. This all volunteer group of men and woman continue to train and drill throughout the year and provide lifesaving emergency services. I thank the members of the First Aid Squad and all our first responders for their time and dedication.
I continue to interact with local, county and federal agencies to assure our community is best served with current information for COVID-19. Our Health Officer and Nurse have done a tremendous job during this pandemic with coordinating and serving the residents of Pompton Lakes. The COVID vaccine rollout has begun and I would urge residents to register on the State website and to continue to wear masks and social distance.
As I conclude, I would remind residents to remain diligent and follow COVID-19 guidelines and together we will get through this difficult time.
Borough Offices will be closed on February 15th in observance of President’s Day.
Stay safe.
Mayor Michael Serra
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BOROUGH CODE:
The public is provided the opportunity to seek answers to questions they may have regarding town regulations by researching through the Borough Code maintained by the Municipal Clerk. Residents may question noise restrictions, parking regulations, licensing requirements, Board of Health concerns, and rules for fire prevention, traffic violations or disposal for garbage /recycling and more are defined in the Borough Code.
Ordinances adopted during a Mayor and Council Meeting become law and part of the Borough Code. An ordinance is designed and crafted in an effort to protect the safety and welfare of the citizens and generally governs local matters not governed by state or federal laws. Language within the ordinance stipulates regulations, guidelines, fines/penalties and designates the enforcing agent/official.
The source for the development of an ordinance might necessitate from an initiative, concerns residents voice, response to state or federal actions or recommendation made by board or committees. Prior to introduction Councilmembers and/or departments discuss needs and findings that best address or resolve public matters.
After Introduction and first reading of an ordinance, a notice is published in the local newspaper specifying the time, date and place for the second reading and final adoption of the ordinance. Prior to adoption of the ordinance, a hearing allowing the public to make comments or objections must be held. Council votes to authorize the ordinance and a second publication notice is required to advise the ordinance has been officially adopted.
The Borough Code is codified by arranging and condensing the Borough’s existing laws or rules according to a designated tiered system. Periodically, newly adopted ordinances are codified into the current Borough Code. Existing ordinances may be amended, repealed or modified to conform to state and federal law or changes to policy.
One of the most significant areas of municipal law is zoning and land use. A Master plan is developed for land use within the Borough and provides for residential, commercial and industrial zoning districts. The code also mandates construction and building regulations.
For your convenience, the Borough Code is available online for the public to view by going to the BOROUGH WEBSITE FRONT PAGE – DOING BUSINESS – BOROUGH ORDINANCES AND ZONING CODE.
Be well,
Elizabeth Brandsness, R.M.C.
Municipal Clerk/Deputy Administrator
973-835-0143 ext. 238
clerk@pomptonlakes-nj.gov
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Meet Elizabeth Brandsness: Pompton Lakes Borough Clerk/Deputy Borough Administrator |
Every day, like clockwork, residents arrive at or call her office with numerous questions about a variety of topics, requests for information, and solutions to problems.
Elizabeth Brandsness is Pompton Lakes’ Borough Clerk and Deputy Borough Administrator, the person you are most likely to see when you arrive at the Borough Hall, and the voice you are most likely to hear greeting you on the telephone. She manages to field the many calls every day and sees to it that the callers are served efficiently and effectively.
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She also serves as the secretary for the Mayor and Borough Council by attending all their meetings. Her job there is to reduce the proceedings to the all-important minutes which are then reviewed, approved, and archived according to State law. Creating the minutes and preserving the Borough history is the centerpiece of her job. The Borough Clerk serves as the official record keeper and is the election official. On any given day, she may have contact with county, state, or federal agencies.
Brandsness also coordinates the popular Borough Calendar and Information Guide. She is responsible for gathering all of the important meeting dates, garbage and recycling collections, and community events, and putting it in an all-inclusive document for the residents. The Borough Calendar keeps the residents informed and is much appreciated by many.
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Borough of Pompton Lakes Achieves Prestigious Silver Level Certification Through Sustainable Jersey |
The Borough of Pompton Lakes has earned Silver Certification from Sustainable Jersey for 2020, the organization announced this week. It is one of 55 municipalities across the state that were certified this year, and one of 18 to achieve Silver Certification, according to Sustainable Jersey. |
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To achieve Silver Certification, a municipality must score at least 350 points. Pompton Lakes had 370. A total of 457 of New Jersey's 565 municipalities are engaged in the certification program.
The Borough of Pompton Lakes earned points through specific actions such as communications and public information, local economy and business, pedestrian and bicycle safety, complete streets, safe routes to schools, tree maintenance and planting, flood mitigation activities, and many more.
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Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill Announces Pompton Lakes Prevention Coalition 'Drug Free Communities' Grant Award |
Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) announced $340,417 in federal grants for the Pompton Lakes Prevention Coalition. The community engagement grants are funded by the Drug-Free Communities (DFC) Support Program at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). |
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“Kids deserve to grow up in an environment that supports good choices, and we are all better off when our youth have the tools and education they need to avoid drugs,” said Rep. Sherrill. “Thank you to the Pompton Lakes Prevention Coalition for your important work, and congratulations on earning this federal support.”
The Pompton Lakes Prevention Coalition builds and strengthens community collaboration in support of local efforts that foster a drug free lifestyle among youth and create a healthy community. The Coalition will use this grant by implementing programs and campaigns like Sticker Shock, Parents Who Host Lose the Most, Talk. They Hear You., Project Alert, Keep a Clear Mind, and Don't Get Vaped In.
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Garbage Collection Cancelled due to Pending Snowstorm |
Garbage Collection is cancelled on Monday, February 1, 2021 (South side) and Tuesday, February 2, 2021 (North side) due to impending Winter Storm Warning. Collections will resume on your regularly scheduled collection date.
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Passaic County Announces COVID-19 Testing for February |
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.
Mobile test sites are open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. PCTVS sites will be open from 9 a.m. to 3 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.
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At home testing is also available: |
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Passaic County Registration Open for Mega Distribution Site for COVID-19 Vaccine |
Passaic County's registration for the COVID-19 vaccine is now open. Visit passaiccountynj.org/COVIDVax to book your appointment. Please read through the "important notes" section.
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Update from the Passaic County Clerk's Office on COVID-19 Response |
In an abundance of caution regarding the ongoing COVID-19 public health crisis, all Passaic County Clerk’s Offices closed on March 18, 2020. On August 17, 2020, our offices opened by appointment only. |
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As of January 2021, our offices remain open by appointment only. When coming to our office you can expect frequently disinfected surfaces, social distancing, mask or face covering requirements and protective glass between customers and County Clerk’s Office employees. As we remain committed to serving you during these unprecedented times, we thank you for your cooperation and understanding. The updated information below outlines our current available services. |
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Governor Murphy Signs Executive Order Extending Public Health Emergency in New Jersey |
Governor Phil Murphy signed Executive Order No. 215. 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.
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Executive Order No. 215 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. 215, click here.
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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
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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.
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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.
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SUSPENDED: 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
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Pompton Lakes Library Opening Procedures and Guidelines |
The library is currently open to the public, with some restrictions:
- Masks need to be worn and social distancing should be observed.
- 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.
- Computers are available, but we ask that patrons limit their online session to 45 minutes.
- Printer/Scanner/Fax are available.
- We ask that patrons keep their visit to under 45 minutes.
- 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.
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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:
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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!
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Students communicate with live tutors using an interactive whiteboard to chat, write, draw, copy/paste text or images and graph homework problems. HelpNow™ will be available to all library patrons from the public computers at the Pompton Lakes Public Library or from any computer with an internet connection starting February 1 until June 15, 2021. To access HelpNow™, please visit the library’s website at https://www.pomptonlakeslibrary.org.
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RB Digital Magazines Moving to Libby App Starting January 25, 2021 |
The digital magazines offered by The Pompton Lakes Public Library have changed platforms and are now accessible through the Libby App or libbyapp.com.
- All magazines will be available with article view in Libby.
- Magazines will not count against a user’s checkout limit.
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Tax Information from the Pompton Lakes Library |
The Pompton Lakes Public Library currently has available the IRS 1040 and 1040 – SR booklets and instructions.
*NOTE* – The local AARP tax assistance program will NOT be available this year (2021).
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Atlantic Health Health and Wellness Classes Offered to Pompton Lakes Residents |
The following classes and offerings are open to Pompton Lakes residents free of charge. See the calendar of events and registration details. |
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Passaic County Announces Music and Movement Classes |
The Passaic County Board of Commissioners is hosting a 'Music and Movement' Class on 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. |
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Passaic County Announces Winter Hike |
The Passaic County Board of Commissioners is hosting a Winter Hike focused on National Invasive Species Awareness Week on Sunday February 28, 2021 at 12:30 p.m. at Rifle Camp Park, 385 Rifle Camp Road, Woodland Park, N.J. Register at www.passaiccountyrec.org. |
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Passaic County Hosting Bendy Bookworm Yoga Class |
The Passaic County Board of Commissioners are hosting a 'Bendy Bookworm Yoga' Class on Wednesday March 3, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. This class is a 30 minute interactive program that focuses on cognitive, motor, and emotional skills. Register at www.passaiccountyrec.org. |
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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.
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Garbage and Recycling News |
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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.
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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.
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Recycling No Paper:
February 10 & 24
Borough Wide Paper Pickup: February 3 & 17
Metal: Every Monday and Thursday
Garbage: Please refer to the Borough Calendar for Garbage Collection dates
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First Responders Flash Briefing |
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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. |
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Mental Health Resources Available |
The isolation brought on by COVID-19 restrictions has been hard on many people. We continue to feel the impact from the COVID-19 virus and if you are struggling, you are not alone. There are resources that are available for support or encouragement. |
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A local resource we have here in Pompton Lakes is the Pathways Counseling Center, a nonprofit, comprehensive agency serving the counties of Northern New Jersey and surrounding communities. Pathways Counseling Center provides a variety of mental health services to families, children and individuals regardless of age, race, ethnicity, gender or sexual orientation for the purpose of promoting wellness. Pathways Counseling offers a variety of therapy and counseling services including:
- Bereavement
- Individual/Family Counseling
- ADHD/School Related Problems
- Career Counseling
- PTSD
For more information, contact:
Pathways Counseling Center, Inc.
16 Pompton Avenue
Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442
phone: 973-835-6337
fax: 973-616-4688
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Mayor Michael Serra
Council Members
Council President - Erik DeLine
William Baig, Terri Reicher, Ekamon Venin, Jennifer Polidori, Maria Kent
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 |
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