TOMS RIVER-As the township council of Jackson continues to clash with residents of the growing Orthodox Jewish population, the police department of neighboring Toms River is taking an opposite approach.
Today, a letter sent out to residents by department spokesperson Ralph Stocco and Mitch Little wished Orthodox residents of that town a happy new year.
Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish new year begins on Wednesday of next week and ends on Friday.
Stocco let Orthodox residents know they can contact him directly should there be any needs or concerns with their homes during the upcoming holiday week.
Stocco also let residents know about the township’s stance on Sukkos, outdoor enclosures used by many who practice the Jewish religion during the new year rituals.
“I know that many of you are new to the area and will be celebrating for the first time in Toms River,” Stocco said.
Stocco reminded residents that township code allows for the construction of the temporary structures provided they are less than 120 square feet (10’x12′). He added that sukkos should be independent of the home and not connecting to a permanent wall in the home.
“For the residents that are home for Rosh Hashana, we want you to know that we will be having additional patrols at the times of prayer services,” Stocco added.
He concluded the letter by wishing the Jewish community of Toms River, “Shana Tova”, have a good year.