Message from the Mayor

Posted: April 17, 2020

Dear Randolph Residents,

It’s been more than 4 weeks since we first reported cases of COVID-19 in Randolph. Since then, 192 Randolph residents have tested positive for the virus. Many have been hospitalized and unfortunately 12 members of our Randolph community have passed away from COVID-19 infections. The impact of this pandemic has been heartbreaking.

As a community, we are staying home, social distancing, and wearing face masks when we do venture out for essentials. We are working remotely, attending school virtually and trying to find cleaning supplies and paper products. The last 4 weeks have been like nothing we ever imagined.

These have been challenging times for all Americans, and our area of the country has been particularly hard hit. There is some positive news, though. According to public health officials, our social distancing efforts appear to be working. The number of new cases reported regionally is slowing. What does the future hold? It’s not clear yet. The governor announced yesterday that schools in New Jersey will remain closed at least through May 15. There’s a great deal of discussion on the national and state level about a phased re-opening of the country. It may be some time before we are back to “normal” and it may all depend upon the development of a vaccine.

Most people tell me they are growing weary of the restrictions that have been placed on us, even as they understand the need for them. We are all eager to get back to the way life used to be. Tough times like this give us opportunities to show who we are and how much we care. The Randolph community has certainly done this. We see examples of extraordinary people every day.

First responders, the police, firefighters and EMTs, who are responding to calls for assistance and keeping us safe.
Medical personnel who continue to work under very trying conditions helping those who are sick.
Essential workers who are keeping our country going and helping all of us get food, medicine and supplies.
Residents who have called and emailed to offer to help in any way.
Everyone who has donated medical supplies and personal protective equipment for our medical professionals and first responders.
All those who have donated food to food banks and blood to the Red Cross.
The town staff who are keeping Randolph running smoothly under challenging conditions.
Everyone who has reached out to neighbors, especially those who are alone, to check on them and offer assistance and encouragement.

There are many bright spots to lift our spirits and so many examples of Randolph residents helping each other.

Let’s all stay safe and get through this together.

Mayor Christine Carey
April 17, 2020