Mayors for “Main Street” Call For The Elimination of Outdoor Gathering Limit

Mayors for “Main Street,” an alliance of 22 Mayors across 5 counties, are urging Governor Murphy to eliminate the 200 person outdoor gathering limit in advance of school graduation ceremonies.

According to the State of New Jersey guidance, “there is no limit for outdoor gatherings for wedding ceremonies, wedding receptions, funerals, memorial services, religious activities, or political activities.” Mayor for “Main Street” are requesting the same designation for school gradations at the end of the academic year.

“We have taken so much from our students in the last year but the class of 2021 deserves a graduation, said Washington Township Mayor Matthew Murello. “It’s time for the Governor to permit our schools to hold outdoor graduations this Spring. Schools are planning now and we cannot wait any longer for action from the State.”

“Gatherings should follow a consistent protocol. If there can be larger gatherings for both indoor and outdoor events, including church services, weddings and political events, it only stands to reason that graduation ceremonies should also fall under this same umbrella,” said Hillsborough Mayor Shawn Lipani.

“Graduation ceremonies for students and their families are cherished memories,” said Chester Borough Mayor Janet Hoven. “In a year where so many positive memories were taken from our residents, allowing outdoor graduation ceremonies could help change the course and bring so much joy to our communities.”

“Our lives are marked with a few seminal moments,” said Bridgewater Mayor Matthew Moench. “I would include an academic achievement, like graduation, among those moments. We need to allow our children to experience these moments as we did, or as close as we can possibly can.”

Founded in May of 2020, Mayors for “Main Street” is an alliance of Mayors representing towns spanning several New Jersey Counties. The group’s mission is to advocate for the swift and safe reopening of businesses within their communities — businesses that have been drastically and negativity impacted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It also serves as a platform for local elected officials to share experiences, ideas and best practices.