The city of Paterson has launched a COVID Compliance Unit, and that unit responded to 40 calls Thursday night that resulted in the shutdown of four businesses and calls for people violating Gov. Phil Murphy's "stay at home" order, according to a statement.

 

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The statement from Mayor Andre Savegh says, "Our residents must be aware of our new normal of social distancing. We are setting these lifesaving guidelines for their safety and it is best for them to stay home," said Mayor Andre Sayegh. "We are taking a zero-tolerance approach to protect Patersonians during this pandemic, their health and safety is my priority."

 

Officials say the unit will run seven days a week and respond to calls for people violating Gov. Murphy's Executive Order 107, which directs all residents to stay at home until further notice.

The unit will handle calls dealing with group congregations not maintaining social distancing, loitering, and non-essential businesses that are open.