After Public Outcry, Mahwah 9/11 Memorial Is Back On

MAHWAH, NJ — Well that didn't take long.

After Mahwah Mayor John Roth kicked the hornet's nest last week when he canceled the township's 9/11 memorial ceremony, the Township Council announced that the decision has been reversed.

In a Facebook post, the council announced that a ceremony will be held, scheduled for 7 p.m. on Sept. 11 at Lisa DiGiulio Tranquility Park.

For those attending the event, the council asks that masks be worn. Can't make it in person? The event will be livestreamed on the Mahwah Community News Channel.

Last week, Roth canceled the event in an announcement on social media, citing coronavirus concerns.

"While we have made much progress in containing the spread, we are still experiencing one to two new cases per day," said Roth. "Our paramount concern continues to be the safety and well-being of all of our residents. Accordingly, with great regret, we must cancel this year's 9/11 ceremony in Veterans Park."

Officials and residents alike were upset by the decision, which council members said they were either unaware of or informed without the chance to offer input.

Jim Wysocki, a council member who is running against Roth for mayor, addressed his comments, and voiced frustration that his colleagues weren't asked to provide input.

Wysocki has a special interest in this event, as he is a retired police officer and volunteer fireman in the township.

"Mayor, I find this hard to comprehend due to the fact this is the first I'm hearing of this. Our township council, me included should have had the opportunity to weigh in on the decision making process. We can gather in public but we can't gather for our fallen brothers and sisters. Speaking as a township volunteer fireman and a retired police officer this decision is very disappointing. Memorial Day services were held without incident, in my opinion which obviously doesn't matter to you."

Read more: Mahwah Mayor Cancels 9/11 Ceremony, Draws Public Ire. Again.