Holzapfel, McGuckin and Catalano: Governor Needs to Clearly Define Reopening Plans for Senior Community Clubhouses and Pools

The 10th District Legislators have received numerous requests from residents of age-restricted communities who want to know when their community clubhouses and pools can reopen.  Senator Jim Holzapfel and Assemblymen Greg McGuckin and John Catalano are urging the Governor’s Administration to clarify the guidelines for opening these facilities before the summer season begins.

“According to the Governor’s office, clubhouses fall under social clubs, however, the language in the Executive Order does not include clubhouses. This has created confusion about whether or not these facilities have the ability to lawfully reopen,” said Senator Holzapfel.  “Without any guidance from the Governor, communities remain in limbo on how to properly and safely reopen.”

“When our delegation approached the Governor’s office with this inquiry, we were given information on an Executive Order which did not specifically mention clubhouses,” added Assemblyman McGuckin.  “If clubhouses in senior communities are allowed to reopen, we are requesting that the Governor clearly communicates this information to each individual adult community in New Jersey.”

The legislators point to their bill, S-2695/A-4390, which establishes immunity for senior planned real estate development associations relating to COVID-19.   This legislation would protect adult communities from any civil damages caused by an exposure to COVID-19 within a common area or facility, such as a clubhouse or community pool. Under the bill, social spaces could be opened with less liability and concern for board members.

“With the warmer months approaching and more of our senior citizens immunized, it is only fair that adult communities be allowed to safely reopen and return to some normalcy,” said Assemblyman Catalano.  “In light of the hardships these communities have suffered since the beginning of the pandemic, the Governor should immediately provide a detailed plan to allow these facilities to reopen.”