Residents In Wyckoff, Ridgewood Ask: Why Didn't We Get 'Boil Water' Message?

WYCKOFF, NJ — The town of Wyckoff issued a letter Tuesday after receiving criticism that they didn't get the message to residents in time about a "boil water" advisory this weekend — an issue that rankled residents in nearby towns too.

The advisory was lifted by the state of New Jersey on Monday after bacteria samples came back negative.

But the messaging left a bad taste in some Bergen County residents' mouths.

On Saturday, the town manager in Ridgewood posted on social media, "Due to a significant drop in water pressure in a Midland Park neighborhood, related to excessive lawn watering, Ridgewood Water has issued a precautionary boil water advisory for Midland Park and parts of Ridgewood and Wyckoff."

One resident responded, "I’m livid over the lack of transparent communication regarding this issue. I learned from a friend, then spent half an hour texting friends (most of whom were also unaware) and reaching out to elderly neighbors who had no clue."

Another asked when the schools would be notified.

The town manager said residents can sign up for a reverse 911 system.

The town of Wyckoff, meanwhile, issued the following message on Tuesday, saying they will improve their emergency communications.

(Note: If you know of breaking news in Wyckoff or Ridgewood, you can let Patch know by emailing.)

Message To Wyckoff Residents

The Township Committee of Wyckoff shares in the frustration expressed by many of our residents regarding the recent Boil Water Advisory issued by Ridgewood Water. While Ridgewood Water serves Wyckoff residents, it is important to note that Ridgewood Water is a department of the Village of Ridgewood, a separate entity from the Township of Wyckoff. The water infrastructure is wholly owned and managed by the Village of Ridgewood, much like how other utility companies own and manage their respective services. As such, all authority over Ridgewood Water’s operations and communications rests solely with the Village Manager and the Ridgewood Village Council.

Initially, we were of the understanding that Ridgewood Water would notify all affected users using their reverse 911 system. However, it became clear late Sunday afternoon that their system did not reach all users of their service. This breakdown in communication is unacceptable, and the Township Committee has formally expressed its displeasure to the Ridgewood Village Manager and Ridgewood Water Management Team.

We have strongly urged the implementation of a more robust and comprehensive mass notification system to ensure that critical messages, such as boil water advisories, are communicated promptly and accurately to all customers, without causing confusion or delay.

The Township of Wyckoff will continue to work closely with Ridgewood Water to address this gap and ensure that such an issue does not occur again in the future. We appreciate our residents' patience and understanding as we work towards a solution.

For any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to the Township.