North Caldwell Takes Another Look At Budget Amid Coronavirus

NORTH CALDWELL, NJ — Introduction of the North Caldwell municipal budget is being postponed amid the ongoing coronavirus crisis, officials said.

Earlier this week, North Caldwell Mayor Joseph Alessi released an update about the spread of COVID-19 in the township. As of Wednesday, North Caldwell had seven confirmed cases of the virus, a total that Alessi said “will undoubtedly go up” as testing becomes more available.

• See related article: More Positive Coronavirus Cases Reported In North Caldwell
• See related article: Essex County Launches Drive-Through Coronavirus Testing Site

The North Caldwell Borough Council was set to introduce this year’s budget during Wednesday’s meeting, which was held via teleconference due to COVID-19. But that’s been delayed as local officials take another look in context of the ongoing crisis, Alessi reported.

“Extraordinary times call for us to rethink all expenses and reduce the burden placed on our residents,” Alessi wrote. “We understand the financial impact this pandemic will have throughout the community and we are focused on limiting the borough’s impact while maintaining the services expected and deserved.”

Alessi noted that North Caldwell has joined a voluntary pledge jointly distributed by the NJDEP, NJDCA and BPU, and will not shut off water to residents for nonpayment or inability to pay water bills during the public health crisis.

Additionally, the borough has temporarily frozen penalties for late payment on water accounts, Alessi said.

• See related article: PSEG Stops Gas, Electric Shut-Offs As NJ Copes With Coronavirus
• See related article: Officials Declare Coronavirus 'Emergency' In North Caldwell

SENIORS IN NEED OF HELP

North Caldwell officials are trying to help local senior citizens in need of a friendly hand during the coronavirus crisis.

According to a notice on the borough website:

“We know that many of our senior residents are having a difficult time getting food, medicine and other essentials during this time. Many are rightfully concerned about being exposed to the coronavirus and are reluctant to venture outside of their homes to go to the supermarket, the pharmacy or the bank. However, there are many volunteers in our town, at our local houses of worship or affiliated with organizations who are ready, willing and anxious to help. The only thing missing is the connection between those who need help and those offering help. If you are or know of a North Caldwell senior citizen who can use some help, please contact us at the following numbers and we will match you up with an eager volunteer: Council President Cynthia Santomauro, 201-681-3968, or Public Safety Chairman/Councilman John Chiaia, 201-481-2837.”

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