We are now in the fourth week of the governor’s “stay at home” orders, which were issued on March 21st.
Since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, the governor has issued 25 executive orders directly related to this public health emergency.
These orders have closed all non-essential business, have banned all but essential travel, and have restricted all residents to their homes other than for essential activities and engaging in outdoor activities.
In addition to following and enforcing the governor’s orders, and based on the authority given to local government as part of those executive orders, the city has closed the beaches, the promenade, all playgrounds and facilities; and in conjunction with the county we’ve banned short term rentals until further notice.
I know concerns have been expressed about visits to the city, but I want to be clear on this – the city has no authority to close off access to the island and we have no authority to prohibit folks from going to their property, whether it be a first or second home.
What we ask of everyone, and what we are enforcing, is adherence to all of the restrictions that we have in place.
This week, additional restrictions were placed on construction projects; and we’re working with staff and the construction industry to make sure the governor’s orders are complied with, understanding that much of our construction is still permitted to continue.
As I’ve stated before and will continue to impress on everybody, we need to stick together now more than ever. We will not beat this unless we stay home, avoid contact with others, and follow all of the governor’s restrictions. I can’t stress this enough.
We WILL come out of this stronger than we’ve ever been.
Additionally, I want to thank former Sea Isle City Public Safety Commissioner John Scarpa for donating 2,000 face masks to Sea Isle City’s first responders.
Sincerely,
Mayor Leonard C. Desiderio
