As 2020 comes to an end, I think back and reflect – what a year this has been!   Who would have thought, as we entered into 2020, we would have been faced with a highly contagious coronavirus disease early in the year.  In the true spirit of Pompton Lakes, our community united and together we continue to fight this disease.  Recommended preventive measures have included social distancing, the wearing of facemasks in public, routine hand washing, testing, as well as monitoring and self-isolation for people exposed.  I continue to stress the importance of abiding with these preventive measures to control the virus.   

The past year has been challenging for the Business District.  Covid-19 restrictions have limited business and affected retail.  Together, the Business Improvement District and Chamber of Commerce offered businesses assistance and creative ways to move forward.   Residents supported those restaurant owners who offered take out and outdoor dining.  As businesses reopened, they were faced with abiding with limited capacity and adhering to safety precautions.  I would encourage residents to frequent local businesses.      

I thank our first responders, volunteers and employees who continue to serve Pompton Lakes.  This year our first responders provided care and outstanding service through the pandemic.  Our many volunteers continue to be the core of our community and offer support when needed.   Those who serve as members on boards, commissions, and committees bring their personal expertise and our community benefits from their positive contributions.    Borough employees maintain services for residents and are available to assist whenever needed.  

This year, COVID affected us all differently.   The Governing Body and Boards held meetings via video conferencing, the Board of Education introduced students to remote learning, voters received Vote-By-Mail Ballots, and businesses transitioned employees to work from home.  Staying close to home was the norm, residents regularly walked around town and the trails, families rode bicycles, and neighbors became reacquainted.   We are all in this together, we supported one another and we managed.  

As 2020 ends, I look forward to new beginnings for Pompton Lakes. Lidl Supermarket is scheduled to open in the new year, Redevelopment continues to move forward with proposed projects, ongoing improvements within our parks as well as road paving projects.    

I would invite residents to contact me if they are interested in becoming involved and serving on a Board, Commission, or Committee.

In closing, I would like to recognize the many talents of our Councilmembers as well as their dedication, commitment, and contributions to our town throughout the year – your efforts are appreciated.   

Although our holiday gatherings will be limited and we celebrate differently I want to extend a safe and healthy holiday season to all!   

Michael Serra

Mayor of Pompton Lakes