Coronavirus Information Update

Posted: March 31, 2020

Thank you for your continued efforts during this ongoing health emergency. We hope that you find these updates to be beneficial. Below is a summary of the most recent information/actions related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

CONFIRMED CASES
As of today, there are 18,696 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in New Jersey, 841 of which are in Morris County. Four new cases in Randolph were confirmed, bringing the total to 49. Of the 49 cases, five households have more than one individual. Two of the individuals were released from the hospital; three currently remain hospitalized. All individuals considered to be close contacts of the confirmed cases are in the process of being reached and asked to self-quarantine for 14 days.

FEDERAL UPDATE
The National Guard issued a statement on Twitter today regarding rumors that Homeland Security is preparing them to mobilize. The rumors are not true. Check the facts about this rumor and others

STATE UPDATE
Governor Murphy and State Police Colonel Patrick Callahan enacted an administrative order
amending which businesses are permitted to operate and clarifying ways in which some businesses may operate in accordance with Executive Order No. 107 as follows:

• Individual appointments to view real estate with realtors by individuals or families shall be considered essential retail business. Open houses are still considered impermissible gatherings.
• Car dealers may continue to conduct online sales or remote sales that are consistent with current law. In the event of such a sale, the car may be delivered to the purchaser or the purchaser can pick up the car curbside or in the dealership service lane.
• In accordance with the guidance released by the federal Department of Homeland Security, effective Tuesday, March 31, 2020 at 8:00 a.m., firearms retailers are permitted to operate—by appointment only and during limited hours—to conduct business which, under law, must be done in person. The NICS background check system will be up and running to process firearms purchases.
• Golf courses are considered recreational and entertainment businesses that must close to the public and to members associated with private golf clubs.

Per direction of the Supreme Court of the State of New Jersey, municipal court sessions are cancelled through April 26. View Modifications to Court Operations

Governor Murphy reminded New Jersey residents that those experiencing domestic violence, or living in reasonable fear of it, should know that they are allowed to leave their home under the “Stay at Home” order. The Domestic Abuse Hotline is available 24/7. If you or someone you love is suffering, please call 1-800-572-7233.

COUNTY UPDATE
The Morris County Chamber of Commerce has expanded its series of virtual seminars during the ongoing COVID-19 crisis with four upcoming topics this week that are relevant to the new reality of life. These timely, half-hour presentations are free to the greater Morris County community.

Morris County, in coordination with Atlantic Health System, has expanded the appointment schedule for the COVID-19 drive-thru testing center at CCM for Morris County residents only. After the testing ran smoothly on Monday, with 86 appointments at 15 minute intervals, the schedule was expanded today to more than 200, with shorter intervals. County residents must have a doctor’s prescription and an appointment. More information

LOCAL UPDATE
All township-initiated restrictions and/or closings, not previously superseded by executive order of Governor Murphy, have been extended through April 15. A reassessment will be conducted at that time. Residents are encouraged to utilize online service options wherever possible and to call or email the relevant department regarding any other matters of business. View a complete list of services and contact info 

Residents are asked to please adhere to the “rules of the road” when walking/jogging/biking on township roadways. Since more people are going outdoors for exercise during the COVID-19 quarantine, we ask that residents walk/jog on the side of the road facing the oncoming traffic and bicycle on the side of the road moving in the same direction as traffic—walk/jog against, bicycle with, traffic. When possible, walkers should use sidewalks. Motorists should also be more cautious when approaching pedestrians and allow ample room when passing. It is just as important to maintain social distancing while out walking; please do not go out in groups or stand and socialize. The safety of our residents is important to us! Please follow the New Jersey laws and instruct the younger members of your family to do so as well.