Nutley's Needy Families will Get Immediate Help

Nutley officials Tuesday night took steps that will make it easier and faster for families in need to obtain financial assistance.

Nutley’s chief financial officer will be authorized to immediately cut a check to any resident in emergent need of public assistance, after the Board of Commissioners introduced a change to speed up the process during their regular meeting.

The township is the source of public assistance "of last resort," according to Commissioner Steve Rogers, who sponsored the ordinance.

"We need to tighten up the language, and give the township CFO the authority to give residents a check right away if needed," Roger said.

The township will then be reimbursed by county and state public assistance funds, he said.

Mayor Alphonse Petracco said the change is important in tough economic times.

"If, God forbid, someone needs our emergency assistance, we will now be able to help," Petracco said.

The three commissioners present all voted for the ordinance, with Commissioner Joseph Scarpelli saying any way to help residents faster is welcome.

The CFO will be authorized to approve a payment of public assistance funds on an interim basis, the ordinance states.

Rogers will approve the payments as director of the Department of Public Affairs, along with an employee whom Rogers will designate, he said.