Below is an update from Mayor Ravi S. Bhalla regarding COVID-19 preparations in Hoboken:
Today, our Office of Emergency Management (OEM) has declared a State of Emergency in Hoboken as we continue to make preparations to address the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. Although there are no confirmed positive COVID-19 cases in Hoboken, this action will allow OEM and the City to take proactive action in the days and weeks ahead to protect the health and safety of our residents.
To that end, all non-essential City-run events and meetings have been canceled until further notice, effective March 13, 2020. This includes:
• All City-run recreation activities and sports for children and adults, and closure of all city recreation fields and facilities
• The Planning Board, Zoning Board, and all municipal volunteer board meetings
• Public meetings including the Neumann Leathers and NJ Transit Records Buildings meetings scheduled for next week
In consultation with the City Council President, we are exploring alternative options to host the City Council meeting scheduled for next week.
The Office of Emergency Management has authorized the construction of a medical tent on 4th Street outside of the Hoboken University Medical Center to help manage the anticipated surge of patients given COVID-19. As recommended by the Hoboken Health Department, if you are a resident of Hoboken and believe you were exposed to a confirmed case of COVID-19, you should contact your healthcare provider first instead of going to the emergency room. Carepoint is urging all residents to observe this protocol to keep the emergency room available for those needing critical emergency care.
I am strongly discouraging any larger discretionary gatherings within the City of Hoboken. If you are planning on holding an event, please consider rescheduling it to a later date, to help protect the safety of our residents.
If you are planning on coming to Hoboken City Hall for any service, please be sure to call ahead to book an appointment, and speak to City staff over the phone instead if possible. Many municipal functions, especially in our Hoboken Parking Utility, can be completed online at http://www.hobokennj.gov as opposed to in person.
If you are having a medical emergency, please call 9-1-1. You may also contact the Hoboken Health Department at 201-420-2000 ext. 5211 if you believe you were exposed to a confirmed case of COVID-19.
It is critically important for residents to stay home if you are sick and remain home for at least 24 hours until symptoms resolve. It is essential to continue washing and sanitizing your hands frequently. Please work from home if you can for the near future.
Additional information will be provided from the Hoboken Health Department on guidance provided to local schools regarding COVID-19.
Although there may be a temporary inconvenience to residents as we address the response to COVID-19, know that all actions are to keep our residents safe and prevent the potential spread of COVID-19.
Thank you to all residents for your continued patience and cooperation.
Sincerely,
Mayor Ravi S. Bhalla
