Mayor's Message -- February 2020

For this month’s message, I am writing about “people helping people,” and how lucky we are to reside in a community where neighbors look out for one another and fellow human beings try to help one another.

This past weekend, an Oakland resident contacted Bergen County Freeholder Zur, Franklin Lakes Councilman Charles Kahwaty and me concerning a homeless gentleman who had been found sleeping in the vicinity of the Franklin Lakes Library.  As a resident of the neighboring town, she reached out to us because she was concerned for his well-being.

Without going into details, contact was made that evening with Julia Orlando, Director of the Bergen County Housing, Health and Human Services Center in Hackensack which serves as the Homeless Shelter for the County.  Ms. Orlando made inquiries with the Franklin Lakes Police Department. The gentleman appears to have some mental health issues. 

“Fast forward:” by Tuesday the Franklin Lakes Police Department arranged transport with Ms. Orlando for the gentleman to go to the Homeless Shelter.  Hopefully the gentleman will stay there to be housed.

If you know someone in need or want more information about the Bergen County Shelter located at 120 South River Street, Hackensack, N.J. 07601, where you can visit, or call the Shelter at (201) 336-6475.

As always I value your comments and suggestions.  My email address is MayorSchwager@oakland-nj.org. Call or visit me in my office at 201-337-5166.  If I am not available when you call, leave a message and I will return your call.  My door is always open for your visits. 

Until next time,

Mayor Linda H. Schwager