Marlboro issues local state of emergency with restrictions

The Marlboro Office of Emergency Management and Mayor Jon Hornik have issued a Local State of Emergency Declaration which is limiting the hours that restaurants’ dining rooms and bars may be open to the public.

Mayor Hornik said that as of Monday:

• All bar and restaurant facilities shall close to the public by 10:00 pm.
• Restaurant seating capacity must be limited to 50% of the seating capacity in both the restaurant and bar area, if applicable.
• Food preparation for curbside pickup and delivery may stay in operation past 10:00pm.

“In light of the Local State of Emergency and the State of Emergency issued by Governor Murphy, it is a matter of public health and safety that these restrictions be put into effect," Mayor Hornik said. "The public and local businesses should be prepared for further restrictions and possible restaurant closures in the next coming days or weeks and furthermore, state health department may take additional action to prevent the spread of the virus in our community.”

On March 9, 2020, Governor Murphy issued Executive Order 103 concerning the outbreak of COVID-19 in the State of New Jersey which allows for the suspension of enforcement of any ordinance.

Police Chief Peter Pezzullo, Marlboro Emergency Management Coordinator, issued a Local State of Emergency Declaration ahead of Mayor Hornik’s Executive Order.

“It is a matter of public health and safety that these restrictions be put into effect. Violations of this order, in accordance with Section 4-3 of the Code of the Township of Marlboro shall be punishable by one or more of the following: imprisonment in the county jail or in any place provided by the Township for the detention of prisoners for any term not exceeding 90 days or by a fine not exceeding $2,000 or a period of community service not to exceed 90 days. In case of a continuing violation, each day of the violation shall constitute a separate offense. In the case of a fine imposed upon a corporation, the fine and costs may be collected in a civil action in such manner as may be prescribed by law.” Chief Pezzullo said. “It is our hope and expectation that businesses are equally concerned about their patrons’ well-being and willingly comply with these restrictions.”

“While we are aware that our restaurants and other retail establishments operate on thin margins and represent an important part of our community, it is prudent for us all to consider some common sense changes on how we do business." Hornik said. “While remaining diligent and following CDC, State and County Health Department guidance, please continue to patronize these establishments and even consider purchasing gift cards for future use to help local merchants through this difficult time.”

Marlboro follows Red Bank and Asbury Park as Monmouth County municipalities issuing local state of emergencies as a precautionary measure to keep everyone safe and healthy.

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