July 24: Weekly Message from Mayor John L. Madden

Encouraging Caution for Summer Group Gatherings

As summer weather kicks in and the school year is now behind us, I have noticed more groups of kids – both young and teens – gathered and participating in a variety of activities. Although our numbers regarding positive Covid-19 cases remain quite low, I am concerned that the lack of social distancing coupled with masks not being worn may invite an increase in these numbers.

I am urging parents to be aware of this situation. Other states have experienced a sharp rise in these numbers due to increased gatherings.  We are also seeing spikes in some NJ towns that have reported large parties involving teens.  The last thing we all need at this time would be to ultimately go into another lockdown.

Finding Successful Small Business PPP Loans

Our local business owners have been operating on small margins during the pandemic. If you are a small business owner who applied for and did not receive an increase to your PPP (Paycheck Protection Program) loan, please consider applying at another banking institution other than that with which you do business.  As a small business owner, I went to our bank for this loan only to sit mired in endless space without help.  It was not until the third banking institution that I was successful in my application.

Healthy People, Healthy Business Community

I hope soon that our business community will thrive again, but it takes all of us, staying healthy and being willing to patronize our local small businesses, to achieve this.  A resurgence of the Cornona virus will be caused by a choice of all of us to not wear masks, not socially distance, and allow the virus to find hosts in which to live and spread.  Let’s stay vigilant and make the choice to keep Covid 19 out of our town!

Covid-19 Statistics

The County is currently maintaining the most up-to-date stats for our area. Visit the Middlesex County website here to learn more.

Please be safe.  Thank you.