February 2021
Hello!

Here's the latest information about things going on in the Borough of Oakland this month, assembled and produced in a collaboration between the volunteers on the Oakland Communications Commission's Newsletter Committee and the Assistant to the Borough Administrator.
Top Stories
Meet Kathy Gurney: Confidential Secretary to the Borough Administrator
Every day, the gears and cogs that move various administrative duties along within the Borough of Oakland do so with ease. That’s because Kathy Gurney is behind the machine.

In her 17 years as a borough employee, Gurney is the sometimes out-of-sight employee that spends her time working closely with Borough Administrator Richard Kunze making sure everything gets where it needs to go, questions are answered, paperwork is issued, and residents get responses.

Gurney wears many hats in the borough.
Kathy Gurney
She assists the borough administrator with the issuance of contracts, insurance issues, scheduling, personnel matters, and also serves as the secretary to the planning board and zoning board of adjustment. The boards are responsible for reviewing and approving new borough construction and zoning amendments respectively. She is responsible for attending all meetings and writing and transcribing meeting minutes.

Although arduous and challenging, Gurney handles her responsibilities and duties effortlessly. She is known for her fantastic work ethic, her ability to work efficiently and always going the extra mile to assist residents, vendors, and co-workers.
Matthew Lopez
Introducing One of Oakland's Newest Police Officers: Matthew Lopez
In the sunny conference room at police headquarters, Officer Matthew Lopez, on the job only three weeks, arrived a bit out of breath. 

“Sorry for the wait, but I had to go out on a call,” he said, as though he’d been working there for a long time. 

Officer Lopez came to Oakland with his mom and dad and younger brother as an eighth grader. He went on to Indian Hills and graduated in 2013.

The inspiration to pursue public service came from his own family, he said.
“My uncle was a Major in the Army, stationed at Fort Mead,” he said. “He was one of my heroes. Right out of Indian Hills, I joined the Army National Guard. The Guard offered me the structure that I liked and money for attending college.”

Lopez initially served in the Horn of Africa, Africa’s west coast, as a medic. When he returned to New Jersey and enrolled at William Paterson University, he thought of medicine as a career path.  

“I was thinking of medicine as a career,” he said, “because I’ve always wanted to work to help people.”

But as he progressed through his course work, his interest in police work intensified.
Borough of Oakland Announces New Program to Benefit Local Musicians
Oakland TV, an informative and long-standing public access television channel made available to Oakland’s Altice and Verizon cable customers, as well as Verizon cable customers residing in Western Bergen County, has announced an exciting new program in which local musicians in Oakland and bordering municipalities may submit their original musical content to the Borough to potentially be played on the channel - seen on Altice's Optimum Channel 77 and Verizon's FiOS Channel 45. 
Almost all local access television channels use background music while informational slides are displayed on the air. While most stations use stock and royalty free music, the Borough of Oakland's Communications Commission would like to provide an opportunity for local musicians to showcase their original musical works to the general public.

In exchange for the free publicity of the musician’s music to tens of thousands of households and being publicly acknowledged on a slide on Oakland TV’s informational bulletin board, the Communications Commission and the Borough of Oakland, NJ will be able to use any approved musical work, donated to the station royalty free, for the television channel's bulletin board and for other projects the Oakland Television Committee may undertake to serve, inform, and entertain all viewers of Oakland TV. There will be no limit to the number of music submissions that a musician can submit for airing on Oakland TV. The Commission's Bulletin Board Committee will review all music submissions received to determine suitability for air.
Mayor Schwager's Message
I dedicate this message to Oakland Councilman Robert Knapp, Jr, who resigned his council seat at the end of this month because he is relocating to New York State.

Bobby, as we all know him, has taken a new job that requires him to leave Oakland.

Bobby attended his last council meeting on January 27, 2021, at which time I read the attached Proclamation.

We will miss Councilman Knapp and wish him, and his wife, Andrea, the best.

Best Wishes,

Mayor Linda H. Schwager
Your Monthly Garbage & Recycling Cheat Sheet
Yard Waste: There is no yard waste collection during the winter months. Yard waste is never permitted in the household garbage collection. Do not put any yard waste in plastic bags.

Electronics: February 17

Paper: February 10 & 24

Commingled: February 3 & 17

Household Appliances/Metal: February 11

Trash: Mon & Thurs garbage collection on the South side of town. Tues & Fri garbage collection on the North side of town.
First Responders Flash Briefing
Oakland Police Department
Due to the recent increase of motor vehicle thefts and vehicle burglaries in Bergen County, the Oakland Police Department would like to remind all residents to lock their vehicles while they are parked in their driveways, keep valuables out of sight or bring them into your home, and bring your key fob, remote or keys into you home. Please take these steps to ensure you are not a victim of crime. Other tips to protect yourself, your family and your property are:
  • Install an interactive video doorbell;
  • Install a security system;
  • Install a camera surveillance system;
  • Install motion sensing lights;
  • If you warm up your vehicle during cold winter mornings, make sure your vehicle cannot be shifted into drive and stolen while idling (there have been instances in Bergen County where criminals have driven around in the early morning hours looking to steal a vehicle that is being warmed up), and;
  • Always contact the Oakland Police Department at (201) 337-6171 if you see anything suspicious

Residential burglaries are on the rise in Bergen County as well. Most recently, break-ins were reported in Franklin Lakes and Wyckoff. Criminals are smashing out rear windows and glass doors, kicking in doors, heading directly to master bedrooms and taking cash and jewelry. No burglaries were reported in Oakland; however, following the above tips will protect you and your property against vehicle thefts, vehicle burglaries and home burglaries.
Oakland Police Department Announces Writing Contest
The Oakland Police Department, in partnership with the Bergen County Community Engagement Task Force and Oakland PBA 164, is sponsoring a Youth Writing Contest. The contest is open to all 7th and 8th grade students attending both public and non public schools in Oakland.

The topic for the essay is, “Why is it important for members of the community to engage with local Police Departments?” The First Place prize winner will be awarded a 14” HP Chromebook! Please see the attached flyer for more information.
Project Medicine Drop
Project Medicine Drop is an initiative involving the installation of "prescription drug drop boxes" at participating New Jersey police departments.

The Oakland Police Department keeps the locked metal box inside our lobby with the “Project Medicine Drop” logo clearly visible and recognizable.
Project Medicine Drop allows the public to dispose of unused and expired prescription medications safely, securely, and anonymously. The opportunity is available seven days a week, 365 days a year.

If you are disposing of medication we ask that you follow this procedure:

  • We do not accept loose medication and request it be placed in a Ziploc bag.
  • Deposit the sealed Ziploc bag into our drop box

We CANNOT and DO NOT accept:

  • medical waste
  • syringes
Oakland Public Library
Oakland Public Library Announces College Admissions Seminar
Because it is constantly evolving, and since it is anything but transparent, it is always a good time to learn what you can to assist your child in taking the necessary steps to insure a successful college application process.
Topics covered will include college admission testing, the application process, what colleges look for, positioning yourself to maximize your opportunities, and more.
 
This program is geared towards sophomores and juniors in high school, and their families. There will be time for a Q and A session as well.
 
Teresa Kilday has been working in college admissions on one side of the desk or another since 1988. She currently works as a school counselor at Ramsey High School and has helped thousands of families navigate the college admission process.
Oakland Senior Center
Update from the Oakland Senior Center:

We have a mix of in person, zoom only, and hybrid programs available. This is indicated on the calendar. If anyone would like to attend an in person class, they are asked to call or email the senior center to register in advance. If they would like to be added to our email list to receive the Zoom links for online classes they can reach out to us as well at (201) 405-7731 or seniors@oakland-nj.org.
In cooperation with the Oakland Library, we now offer Books 2 Go to homebound Oakland Seniors and members of the community with disabilities. Books 2 Go is a book and media delivery program where we will drop off your rentals right to your home weekly and pick up your returns. Book delivery and returns will be conducted weekly on Tuesdays using the Senior Center Bus. Those interested are asked to call the library at (201) 337-3742 to reserve your books. If you don’t have a specific book in mind, no problem! The fantastic staff at the library will put together book bundles based on your preferences. A flyer is available on the Oakland website.

The Senior Center’s weekly shopping bus has resumed service and is open to Oakland residents 55+. We offer door to door transportation to Shoprite and alternate locations within Oakland by appointment. A flyer with more information is available on the Oakland Website and at the Senior Center to pick up.
Oakland Senior Center Announces Winter Hours
The Borough of Oakland Senior Center has announced winter hours from November 2, 2020 to February 26, 2021. The hours will be Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The Oakland Recreation Department, also located at 20 Lawlor Drive, is open from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. Please leave any mail in the white drop box outside the front door. 
Oakland Senior Center Transportation Program Schedule
The Borough of Oakland Senior Center Transportation Program is back up and running. For reservations, please call the Senior Center no later than 4:00 p.m. on the Monday before your requested trip at (201) 405-7731.
Oakland Senior Center 'Books to Go' Program
The Borough of Oakland Senior Center and the Oakland Public Library are offering 'Books to Go' Program, which began earlier this Fall. Contact the Library and see availability of books. Delivery and pick-ups will take place every Tuesday by the Senior Center Van. To reserve books, (201) 337-3742.
Recent News
Garbage Collection Cancelled
Garbage Collection for both Monday February 1st and Tuesday February 2nd is cancelled. Electronics Collection scheduled for Wednesday, February 3rd is also cancelled. 
Borough of Oakland Service Updates Due to Ongoing Snowstorm
Due to the impending snowstorm, please note the following service changes:

  • Garbage Collection for both Monday February 1st and Tuesday February 2nd is cancelled. Electronics Collection scheduled for Wednesday, February 3rd is also cancelled. 
  • The Oakland Public Library will be closed.
  • The Senior Center will be closed but virtual classes via Zoom will still take place.
  • Borough Offices, including the Municipal Court, will be closed but staff will be working remotely.

The current forecast is for more than a foot of snow. Please remember to shovel your sidewalk and around fire hydrants as well. Do not travel unless it is necessary. Stay safe and be well.
Bergen County COVID-19 Vaccination Center Closed on Monday February 1, 2021
Please be advised due to Monday February 1, protected snow storm, Bergen New Bridge’s vaccination program is suspended. Please check back frequently for updates on reopening.
Bergen County Board of Commissioners Announce February COVID-19 Testing Dates and Times
The County of Bergen in collaboration with Bergen New Bridge Medical Center announce February 2021 dates for drive-thru COVID-19 testing at Bergen Community College, 400 Paramus Rd, Paramus, N.J. 
The program will now offer COVID-19 Nasopharyngeal Diagnostic PCR tests providing results in 24-48 hours tests on the following days below for the month of February:

  • Tuesday, February 2, 2021 from 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
  • Thursday, February 4, 2021 from 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, February 6, 2021 from 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
  • Tuesday, February 9, 2021 from 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
  • Thursday, February 11, 2021 from 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
  • Tuesday, February 16, 2021 from 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
  • Thursday, February 18, 2021 from 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
  • Saturday, February 20, 2021 from 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
  • Tuesday, February 23, 2021 from 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
  • Thursday, February 25, 2021 from 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Testing is available to all county residents at no out-of-pocket cost, regardless of health insurance status. Residents must schedule their test through an online portal which can be reached at www.BergenCOVIDTesting.com. Please note residents must bring their mobile device for check-in. Identification is necessary so please bring ANY ONE OF THE FOLLOWING: your driver’s license/ID card, social security card, passport, or birth certificate. If you have health insurance, please bring your identification card as well.

The County of Bergen and Bergen New Bridge Medical Center remind all residents that mobile testing is only one way to get tested. COVID-19 nasal, saliva, and antibody testing are also available by appointment at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center. To make an appointment please visit https://www.newbridgehealth.org/covid-19-testing/ for more information.
Orange and Rockland Utilities Announces Tree Maintenance Work in Oakland
Orange and Rockland Utilities has announced that in the coming weeks residents should see tree contractors working in your neighborhood. When you spot the Nelson Tree Service Trucks in your area, be assured that they are helping improve the reliability of service by completing preventative maintenance to vegetation in proximity to the overhead electrical conductors. 
Because tree interference is a leading cause of outages, Orange and Rockland routinely sends experienced tree pruning contractors to trim and redirect tree growth away from power lines. Orange and Rockland uses the proper tree pruning techniques and follow the upmost care to protect the tree health. 

All trees requiring pruning will be maintained during this project. If residents would like information on free of charge wood chip delivery, or have questions or concerns related to this work, please contact (877) 434-4100. For your convenience, calls are fielded Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
State of New Jersey Announces COVID-19 Vaccination Hotline
Earlier in the week, the Governor noted that four of the six vaccine mega sites in Burlington, Gloucester, Middlesex, and Morris counties are open and two more mega sites, Meadowlands and Atlantic City, will be opening shortly. 
The state has established a hotline, 855-568-0545, to assist residents in getting information on the COVID-19 vaccine. The interactive voice response platform provides key information on how to register, as well as how to schedule vaccine appointments as people become eligible, in both English and Spanish to New Jersey residents. Beginning Monday, January 25, the phone line will be staffed with 250 live agents from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
 
The state continues to encourage the general public to pre-register online for vaccine eligibility. Individuals will be permitted to input their personal, contact, health insurance, and demographic information. Those who are immediately eligible based on screening questions will be able to schedule an appointment.
NJEDA Announces $10 Million Second Phase of its Small Business Emergency Assistance Loan Program
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) today announced it will open pre-registration for Phase 2 of its Small Business Emergency Assistance Loan Program at 9:00 a.m. EST on Wednesday, February 10, 2021. The $10 million program expansion will support New Jersey small businesses and nonprofits impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and will be capitalized by a United States Economic Development Administration (USEDA) Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act appropriation.
Any business or entity that intends to apply for a loan must first pre-register during this pre-registration period, which will run from 9:00 a.m. EST on February 10, 2021 to 5:00 p.m. on February 22, 2021.

The second phase of the Small Business Emergency Assistant Loan Program will make up to $100,000 in low-cost financing available to eligible New Jersey small businesses and nonprofits to help with recovery and reopening efforts as a result of COVID-19. The funding can be used to pay rent or mortgage, payroll, and/or utilities. It can also be used to purchase inventory, personal protective equipment (PPE), or COVID-related inventory, furniture, fixtures, or equipment.
Governor Murphy Signs Executive Order Extending Public Health Emergency in New Jersey
Governor Phil Murphy today 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 in 2020 on April 7, May 6, June 4, July 2, August 1, August 27, September 25, October 24, November 21, and December 21. Under the Emergency Health Powers Act, a declared public health emergency expires after 30 days unless renewed.
“As we continue to work expeditiously to distribute vaccines, the COVID-19 pandemic is still in full swing,” said Governor Murphy. “Continued access to necessary resources is important and critical as cases have continued to climb in New Jersey and across our nation.”

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.
Bergen County Utilities Authority Announces 2021 Dates for Household Hazardous Waste Collections
The Bergen County Utilities Authority has announced the 2021 collection dates for both household hazardous waste and electronics/tire/shredding recycling events. The dates and times are as follows:

Bergen County Utilities Authority
(back gate only)
Foot of Empire Blvd., Moonachie
Saturday, March 6th, 2021
Saturday, November 13, 2021 
Bergen County Campgaw Reservation
200 Campgaw Rd., Mahwah
Saturday, May 15, 2021
Saturday, July 10, 2021
Saturday, September 11, 2021

Bergen Community College
400 Paramus Rd., Paramus
Sunday, April 11, 2021
Sunday, June 13, 2021
Sunday, October 17, 2021
Recreation Commission
Oakland Rec Softball will hold online only signups this year. Signups will begin on January 1, 2021. Please register on Community Pass by going to https://register.capturepoint.com/. Enter Borough of Oakland and follow registration Instructions. Boys & Girls T-Ball (Kindergarten) $68,  Softball 1st-2nd $78, Softball 3rd-4th $93, Softball 5th-8th $113, High School Non-Seniors-16U $101 and High School Seniors-18U $30. 
All volunteer coaches must have completed the Rutgers S.A.F.E.T.Y Course (1 time only), the Online Concussion Training Course (1 time only) and must have passed a Background Check (every 3 yrs) before the start of the season in order to be eligible to coach. Any questions regarding certification, please email recsec@oakland-nj.org.

Travel Softball Tryouts will be held at a later time.
Recreation Commission
Oakland Recreation has announced that registration is open for baseball. Registration is open until March 5, 2021, and after March 5, 2021, you will be placed on a waitlist. 

Eligibility is based on your current grade. 

T-Ball welcomes boys and girls currently enrolled in Kindergarten. Baseball welcomes boys currently enrolled in grades 1-8. 
To be considered to coach, you must first complete the Rutgers SAFETY Clinic (1 time only), the online concussion training course (1 time only), and a background check (every 3 years). This process must be completed prior to your season start or you will be ineligible to coach until that time. This process must be completed prior to your season start or you will be ineligible to coach until that time. 

For information on coaching, click here. 

Any questions regarding becoming a coach, contact Recreation Aide Rosa Kilpatrick at recsec@oakland-nj.org. 

Any questions regarding Oakland Baseball, contact Commissioner Steve Saliani at steve.saliani@gmail.com. 
Recreation Commission
Oakland Recreation's Indian Hills Football Camp for children entering grades 3-8 is now open for registration on Community Pass. 

The camp will take place from July 12, 2021 to July 15, 2021 at Truman Field, 60 Roosevelt Boulevard, Oakland, N.J. 07436. from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. 

The cost is $125.00 for the program. 
Please note that all New Jersey COVID-19 guidelines will be adhered to. Campers are asked to bring their own water bottle, snack, and cleats with them for each session. It is also suggested to bring gloves and a face mask. 

Coaching Staff: 

  • Dominic Mulieri - Head Football Coach / Health / PE Teacher IHHS
  • George Hill - Assistant Football Coach / Health / PE Teacher IHH

Camp Features: 

  • Instruction in all phases of the game, skills & drills for all positions, game competition, personal skills test and a camp t-shirt.

Questions:

  • For questions about the camp please contact Dominic Mulieri at dmulieri@rih.org or by phone at (201) 956-2275. 
  • For questions about registration/payment please contact Oakland Recreation at recsec@oakland-nj.org or by phone at (201) 337-8111, ext. 2068. 
Communications Commission
The Oakland Communications Commission and Oakland Newsletter Committee is seeking volunteers to help write stories and articles for the Borough Newsletter. Experience in journalism and writing is a plus. Community service hours for high school and college are accepted. To those interested, contact either oaklandcrossroads@gmail.com or assistadmin@oakland-nj.org.
Sustainable Oakland Green Team Announces 'Great Houseplant Exchange' Program
The Great Houseplant Exchange of 2021 by the Sustainable Oakland Green Team. 

Plants are awesome but free plants are even better! Sign up now for the Sustainable Oakland Green Team’s Great Houseplant Exchange that will take place in March 2021. No experience in propagating plants is necessary, because it's easy to do.
Cost/Commitment: There is NO cost to participate. Also, if you sign-up and change your mind, that's ok too! Signing up will allow you to stay on the emails so you know what's happening.

Preparing: If you do not already have a plant at home that you can propagate, you'll need to get one. To get a plant for free, try posting in local Facebook groups asking if anyone is giving away a plant. Alternatively you can buy a plant online or at a store. Google "Easy Plants to Propagate" for a GREAT list of options.
Creative Bergen Hosting Informational Seminars on 2021 Arts Amble Program
Creative Bergen, a NJ Non-Profit part of the Sustainable Jersey Bergen HUB is hosting an Arts Amble Program in June of 2021. 

Join Creative Bergen for Public Information Meetings on January 31, 2021, February 21, 2021, and March 14, 2021 all at 7:30 p.m. via Zoom. Register for the meetings here. 
The Arts Amble is an event hosted by Creative Bergen for Bergen County artists, venues, and businesses to come together to show artistry, sell art/performances, interact and have fun with the public. It is a low cost opportunity for your business to be promoted. 
Connect with Creative Bergen:
Creative Bergen Wants to Hear From Local Artists in Oakland & Bergen County
Calling all of Bergen County. The Bergen County Sustainable Jersey HUB and the Sustainable Oakland Green Team are seeking local artists (visual, performing, musical, etc.) to be one of our creative assets and take the survey here.
Sustainable Oakland Green Team Announces Library Seed Bank
The Sustainable Oakland Green Team has launched the new Library Seed Bank, featuring native and heirloom seeds. This program is available at the Oakland Public Library, 2 Municipal Plaza, Oakland, N.J. 07436, and is open to all Oakland Library card holders. 
Any questions, contact the Sustainable Oakland Green Team at greenteam@oakland-nj.org. 
Borough of Oakland Selling Backyard Composters
Backyard Composter Bins are available for purchase at the Oakland Department of Public Works, 63 Oak Street, Oakland, NJ 07436 during normal business hours Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

The composter is available at a discounted price to Oakland Residents at $60.00.

Questions, email recycle@oakland-nj.or (201) 337-8104.

Sustainable Oakland Green Team Reminds You To Eliminate Idling
The Sustainable Oakland Green Team would like to remind residents to please not idle their car! It saves gas, it saves the planet, and it makes us healthier.
Environmental Commission Battery Recycling Program
The Oakland Environmental Commission presents "Battery Recycling" at the Borough Hall, 1 Municipal Plaza, Oakland, NJ 07436.

Place in Plastic Box:
  • Single Use Batteries
  • AA, AAA, C, D, Watch, and Hearing Aid Batteries.

Place in Cardboard Box:
  • Rechargeable Batteries
  • AA, AAA, C, D, 9 Volt, Tool Batteries, Cell Phones.

Collection is for Oakland NJ Residents ONLY. No commercial businesses.
Borough of Oakland Selling COVID-19 Face Masks
The Borough of Oakland is selling COVID-19 cloth polyester face masks to the public. Masks are $6 each (exact change or check) and are available in the Borough Clerk's Office, 1 Municipal Plaza, Oakland, N.J. 07436 during normal business hours of 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Masks come in sizes SM/M and L/XL.
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